Alasa Academy gears up for summer programs

ALTON - As summer approaches, Alasa Academy staff and volunteers tackle the job of meeting new challenges, as they once again prepare for this year's 'family' of children coming in July. Even though the Main House at Alasa Farms burned this winter, the program will continue at Alasa Farms in Sodus. The Main House was used as the site for inclement weather activities, leaving Alasa with no home. Months have gone into brainstorming ideas for this summer without compromising limited funds. Research concluded that a high peaks tent with windowed sides would be the safest and best way to proceed.

Now, with this change, and the replacement of some furniture, Alasa Academy is ready to proceed as usual. In fact, Alasa has already successfully provided a customized workshop for the Lyons and North Rose- Wolcott afterschool programs.

Alasa Academy workshops are primarily outdoor activities on the 700 acre working farm and woodland area. The Academy not only provides outdoor activities, but stimulates children attending to try new things and be part of the decision making for their week or day of workshops. Building self-confidence, enthusiasm, expanding interests and knowledge, team-building and setting individual goals, while having fun, are the goals for the workshops.

Workshop days will focus on children's personal interests and abilities, as they explore the animals, streams, woods, and activities available on the Alasa Farm properties in a truly bully-free environment. Activities include: animal care and visits; stream and fossil exploration; relaxation techniques; camping and survival skills; art in nature; hiking; plant and animal identification; and campfire luncheon, plus much more.

Presenters expand each week's horizons through hands-on presentations of wild animal rehabilitation, metal work on a forge, fishing, ecology, adventure challenge games and more.

Workshops are scheduled for: July 6 through 10, ages 6 to 10; July 13 through 17, ages 11 to 16); and July 27 through 31, ages 6 to 16. Each day runs from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For information, visit www.ALASA-Academy.org, call Sharon Maher, director, 573-1470, e-mail smaher45@aol.com, call Maryanne Whyte, program director, 573-0036 or e-mail maryannewhyte@yahoo.com.

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