CHENANGO COUNTY – Kids from across the county shipped off today to the Norwich Family YMCA’s Camp Thompson in Smyrna for the 19th annual Chenango County Sheriff’s Office Summer Camp. The camp will run from July 8 through August 1, Monday through Thursday.

The summer camp gives children an opportunity to interact in a positive way with law enforcement officers, as well as simply having a positive experience in general, establishing independence, providing opportunities to make new friendships, and also giving parents a little time to themselves. Along with activities often associated with summer camps, children will experience special demonstrations concerning drugs, canines, gun safety, horses, buggy rides, boating safety and scuba diving. A zoo mobile will also be present, along with the county air boat and a helicopter from the Sidney-based LifeNet. Some of the other events scheduled include demonstrations from the Oxford Fire Department and a magic show. Children will also be delighted to see demonstrations from the Sheriff’s Office involving an employee dressed as a “bad guy” and a police canine. Each week will also feature a Wednesday dance. A 911 presentation conducted by a county dispatcher will also help to sate childrens’ insatiable curiosity, informing them on when and why they should call 911.

The camp is funded and supplemented through private contributions, as well as bottle and can drives, and promises to provide an extraordinary experience for youths between the ages of 9 and 12.