YMCA summer camp registration open

The YMCA is summer camp headquarters: from day camp to gymnastics camp, sports camp to resident Camp Weona, the YMCA has something for almost everyone.

Camp kicks off on June 30 and runs until Aug. 29, with registration already under way.

However, some branches offer Early Bird camp beginning June 23, while other camps come to a close earlier in the month of August. For more information, visit www. ymcabuffaloniagara. org.

YMCA camps offer a variety of activities geared toward the interests as well as abilities of various age groups. Some activities include swimming, sports and field trips. Throughout the programs, there is a focus on the four main character development traits of caring, honesty, respect and responsibility.

All camps are County Health Department-certified and enforce low camper-to-counselor ratios.

The YMCA also offers convenient hours, including free extended hours. Also, the YMCA offers financial assistance for those who qualify and accepts third-party payments through the Department of Social Services.

On Saturday, May 10, the YMCA kicks off its annual Passport to Summer event. Parents will have the chance to meet with camp staff and get a sneak peek of camp, while youths enjoy hands-on activities, bounce houses and face painting.

Amherst's branch is the Northeast Family YMCA at 4433 Main St., near Harlem Road. Visit www.ymcabuffaloniagara.org for more information.

Also in YMCA news, this week is Splash Week at the Northeast

Family branch, to discuss water safety with youths 3-12 years old.

Classes are designed to introduce nonswimmers to pool safety.

This is the schedule for the remainder of

the week: 3-5

p.m. Wednesday, April 9, family swim; 4:45-5:15 p.m., ages 3-5 and 5:45-6:15 p.m., ages 6-12, both Thursday, April 10; and 3-5 p.m. Friday, April 11, family swim.

For information, visit online at www.ymcabuffaloniagara.org or call 839-2543.