Text Box: growing and learning that takes place is invaluable.” And he should know, he was himself a 5th grader from Lafayette attending ENH some 25 years ago. He later returned as a high school counselor, a naturalist, and director and is now in his eighth year working for this organization. It is summed up well in a letter from a teacher attending SVOS for the first time last week with Martin Luther King Elementary, “The group at Sempervirens truly has touched the lives of my kids and myself. You gave them that magical connection to nature that a text book never can. (I wish you) success in your work……you’re an inspiration.” But don’t take her word for it, or my word for it, for that matter, come experience Sempervirens Outdoor School for yourself on May 15, 2004 at our first annual Spring Family Festival. Text Box: ONE BIG HAPPY FAMILY! That’s the way of life here at the Sempervirens Outdoor School. Whether it’s the intimacy of our site, the caring and committed staff, or the increasing number of farm animals (we now have two new goats!), we are all part of a very positive, learning, growing community. Enough cannot be said for the quality of the students experience during their week at outdoor school. I was just talking with Barry Huseby, our site director and my new fiancé, about the issue of parent’s hesitation in sending their child away for a week of “science camp”. He responded “You can’t underestimate the value of this week. The Text Box: to experience this special place with your family contact Ano Nuevo by calling 650-879-2025 or check their web site at www.anonuevo.org. Our semi-private program, one class at a time with eight parents, is enjoying the silvery skies of the central coast. The stellar staff of naturalists seem to summon up the best in nature. Octopi, Peregrin Falcons, Gray Whales, Brandt’s Cormorant and Banana Slugs are showing off as we introduce scientific and ecological concepts such as diversity, interdependence and cycles. This season promises dramatic sights and sounds and wide eyed amazement. - Jodi Behrens Text Box: The sound was ancient, yet familiar. Reminiscent of a Harley Davidson revving up its engine in a gymnasium. Pigeon Point Environmental Education Program is under way! No, actually the sound is that of the gigantic elephant seal challenging a near by opponent with its vocalization and enormous nose. Ano Nuevo is once again hosting the ancient mating dance of the elephant seal, and we’ll be there. The Pigeon Point Environmental Education Program or PPEEP spends one day at the state reserve introducing animals, plants and geologic wonders to our curious clients. The spectacle is always impressive. If you haven’t been and want

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ENH Ink

www.exploringnewhorizons.org
Text Box: Thoughts from Scott Klein: Program Director at Loma Mar Text Box: Thoughts from Jodi Behrens: Program Director at PPEEP Text Box: Thoughts from Beth Riscassi: Program Director at SVOS

Greetings from Loma mar,

 The rain has settled in the Pescadero Valley bringing green to the hillsides and flowers to the plants.  Spring has arrived as a fresh wind and a more present sun.  The creek has become a river due to the rainfall of the past months.  The children’s laughter cascades through the valley, a sign of discovery and comfort while at outdoor school.

 The staff at Loma Mar continues to inspire the many students that come to us every week.  One student proclaimed during the Friday closing ceremony when the students are

graduated: “Even though it rained and I was muddy, I had the best time of my life.”  This is a reflection of both the magical environment of Loma Mar and the ability of the staff to reconnect the students to the earth.  The students most memorable moments are many but a few are worth mentioning:  searching for steelhead trout (endangered species), mushroom hunting, visiting Big Red (old growth redwood), singing at campfire, being with friends and of course, counting banana slugs!

 As the days lengthen and the sun warms our souls we await more opportunities to take students to the forest and beaches that we call home.  The beauty of Loma Mar is that it belongs to all of us!  Thanks for your support --

       - Scott “Burl” Klein

 

 

The 2003-04 Loma Mar Staff

Another Beautiful Day at Pigeon Point Lighthouse

The 2003-04 Sempervirens Staff, with animal friends