Editor’s Note: This column is written by Emory Smith, a YMCA staff member.

It has been a summer of fun and adventure at YMCA summer camp. Campers from 4 years of age through 13 years of age have learned to swim, play tennis and soccer, and have learned new cooperation skills. Now, it is hard to believe that five weeks of camp have passed and there are just five more to go. Here is what we are doing the remaining weeks.

Next week is “Art Week” at camp. In addition to the usual afternoon sessions of art, there will also be morning sessions with new art projects and new skills to learn. We will also have visits from local artists. We will also try out the YMCA’s new archery equipment!

The week of July 15 will be Water Week II. There will be a new round of swim lessons to improve the swimming and the strokes of those who can swim and more lessons for those who can’t swim … with our goal being to try to get every child swimming by summer’s end. We will also break out the giant slip and slide again. In addition, some of the kids will go “Fishin’ with Frank” at the pond on the YMCA property.

The Week of July 22 is Memory Week. In addition to all the fun and games, we will be having sessions to teach students how to improve their memory and become better students. The week of July 29 will feature all the most fun summer activities, plus a closing talent show and awards assembly.

On Aug. 2, with school starting back, we will begin another year of our Y Academy after-school programs for students in grades Pre-K through the 8th grade. Y Academy is a safe learning environment for students to unwind after school, do their homework and engage in fun group activities. Students from the Bainbridge High School “Y” Club assist the Academy students with their homework and tutor those needing extra help in particular subjects.

We pick the students up every day in the YMCA buses and deliver them to the Academy. They get a nutritious snack when they arrive. We also offer an optional supper for families wanting us to feed their children before they go home. If you are looking for a safe place for your child to go after school … and a place where your child can get support to become a better student, then consider Y Academy. Call us at (229) 243-0508 for more information.

Don’t forget that basketball camp with Coach Rickey McCullough is next week and soccer camp with Coach Jamie Ard is the week of July 22. The camps are for ages 6-14 and emphasize the fundamentals and help player improve “to the next level” in the sports. The cost for each is $30 for Y Members, $40 for non-members and $15 for those already enrolled in YMCA summer camp.

Enjoy your Fourth of July!

Emory Smith is a staff member at the Bainbridge-Decatur County YMCA. He can be reached at (229) 243-0508.