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August is Amazing Amphibian Month at the Oxbow Eco-Center

August 1, 2014
The Oxbow Eco-Center turns its attention to Amazing Amphibians for the month of August. Drop in Tuesday through Friday from noon – 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. to check out activities and exhibits that focus on these unique creatures.

Programs planned for the month of August include:
  • Learn to get balanced with Tai Chi for Health. Beginner and intermediate classes are held on Tuesdays (Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26) at 10:30 a.m. and Fridays (Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29) at 9:15 a.m. Tai Chi Yang Form classes are held on Tuesdays (Aug. 5, 12, 19, 26) at 6:30 p.m. and Fridays (Aug. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29) at 10:30 a.m. Tai Chi instructors Hildie and Hector Ruiz-Puyana will lead the classes, designed for everyone, including those who suffer from Parkinson’s, arthritis, diabetes and balance issues. Appropriate for ages 16 and older, the cost is $10 per class or $32 for four classes. Reservations are required: 772-785-5833 or oxbow@stlucieco.org.
  • There are still a few spots available as the Oxbow’s Performing Arts Camp takes center stage Aug. 4 – 8 from 9 a.m. to noon. This theatre class uses a holistic and kinesthetic way of teaching the stage arts. Students will create skits, scenes and shows by incorporating native animals, plants and diverse cultures of the world. The final performance will consist of acting as well as music, movement, storytelling and visual arts. Bring your own snacks and a lunch for the extended camp. Appropriate for ages 5 to 16 and the cost is $95 Pre-registration is required: 772-785-5833 or oxbow@stlucieco.org.
  • Let your imagination run “wild” and have a “novel” adventure as Miss Phyllis hosts an environmentally-themed storytime at the Oxbow’s Swamp Tales on Thursday, Aug. 14 at 3:45 p.m. Each month the story changes, but the fun never stops. This free program is appropriate for ages 2-6.
  • Treehouse Time explains “It’s Not Easy Being Slimy” on Friday, Aug. 15 at 4 p.m. with a dancing, sign-song good time. Hop to it and leap for joy as Miss Marion sings songs about our famous froggy friends and create an slimy craft. Participants will have the opportunity to sing, run and dance like a slimy amphibian. This is a free program appropriate for ages 3-5 with an adult.
  • Discover art of paper bead jewelry on Saturday, Aug. 16 at 10 a.m. Treasure Coast Art Association teams up with Oxbow to present this nature-inspired class that explores the art of making beautiful beads with paper. High-end retailers are selling these beaded creations for top dollar and now you can learn how to make this very stylish but affordable piece of jewelry.  The cost is $20 per participant (which includes all supplies). Designed for ages 10 and older, reservations are required: 772-785-5833 or oxbow@stlucieco.org.
  • Meet the Oxbow’s Lily at the Critter Encounter on Thursday, Aug. 21 at 4 p.m. She may look like a fish but she is actually a member of the salamander family. As Lily glides around her tank you can see her feathered gills, two legs and “beauty” mark on her tail. Watch as she scarfs down her favorite snack: earthworms! Get up close and personal with Lily at this free program for children ages 5 and older.  
Situated on a 225-acre preserve on the North Fork of the St. Lucie River, the Oxbow offers a rare glimpse of "the real Florida" with nature trails, boardwalks, observation towers and an interactive environmental learning center. 

The Oxbow Eco-Center is located at 5400 NE St. James Drive, Port St. Lucie (across from the Publix Shopping Center). For more information call the staff at 772-785-5833 or visit www.oxboweco.com.