For immediate release: May 17, 2011
Contact: Gabriella B. Ferraro, 772-215-9459
Approximately 60 fourth-graders from Pine Jog Elementary School in Palm Beach County will have an adventure they won’t soon forget. Just like Charlie Pierce, the fictional children’s books character, the kids will explore the South Florida outdoors, getting close to the area’s fish and wildlife, canoeing, hiking and learning how to shoot a bow and arrow, among other activities.
The kids will camp at the Everglades Youth Camp at J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area in Palm Beach County on Thursday, May 19 and break camp the next day, May 20. The event is being organized by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s (FWC) Florida Youth Conservation Centers Network.
The books’ author, fifth-generation native Floridian Harvey Oyer III, will read and sign copies of the books. Oyer based the popular books on the real-life adventures of his ancestors, who were among Palm Beach County’s original settlers. In the stories, young readers learn about Florida’s environment and history. In December, FWC Commissioners recognized Oyer for helping children develop an appreciation for Florida’s fish and wildlife resources.
The children will be expected to write about their experiences in a journal. They’ll also be asked to assess the event so the FWC can plan similar events in other areas of the state.