June 2013: Dismal Swamp State Park

Dismal Swamp State Park Sat, June 1, 2013
	Creepy Crawly Critter Crafts Build a snake out of bottle tops and let your imagination go wild! We will provide the craft materials (and a little natural history), you just need to bring your creativity. Meet in the classroom at 12:00 p.m. Open to ages 3 and up. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Starts at: 12:00 pm    Meet at: Classroom
Dismal Swamp State Park Sat, June 1, 2013
	Kayaking the Canal Join a ranger for a leisurely paddle along the historic Dismal Swamp Canal. The paddle begins at 10:00 a.m. and will last approximately one and a half to two hours. Kayaks, PFDs and paddles will be supplied, but you will need to bring your sunscreen, bug spray and water. Program is limited to 8 boat participation and pre-registration is required. Please call the park office at 252-771-6593 to reserve your spot. Starts at: 10:00 am    Meet at: Kayak/Canoe Launch
Dismal Swamp State Park Sun, June 2, 2013
	Serpents of the Dismal See how fascinating these creatures really are with a hands-on approach. We'll learn about our local snakes and dispel the myths surrounding this group of animals. Starts at: 2:00 pm    Meet at: Auditorium
Dismal Swamp State Park Sat, June 8, 2013
	Insect Safari Curious about the creepy crawlies out there? Now's your chance to get outside and go on an insect safari. We will see what we can catch and identify, plus we will learn a little bit about the amazing diversity of insects in our area. Wear comfortable shoes and bring insect repellent (we want to find them, not feed them!). Meet in the park auditorium at 2:00 pm Starts at: 2:00 pm    Meet at: Auditorium
Dismal Swamp State Park Sat, June 8, 2013
	Nighttime Insect Safari The public is invited to join us as we conduct a nighttime insect inventory. We will set up our UV light and see what moths and other critters can be found. We will meet at the Horseshoe Rd. access. Pre-registration is required. Call 252-771-6593 to reserve your spot. Starts at: 8:00 pm    Meet at: Horseshoe Road
Dismal Swamp State Park Sun, June 9, 2013
	Nature Hike Join a ranger as we look for the first signs of spring on this 2-mile hike. Open to all ages. Call park office to sign-up. Starts at: 10:00 am    Meet at: Visitor Center
Dismal Swamp State Park Sun, June 9, 2013
	Paper-making Go green and make your own plantable paper to plant in your personal flower garden. All materials will be supplied, but be sure to wear something that you don't mind getting messy. We will meet in the classroom at 12:00 p.m. Starts at: 12:00 pm    Meet at: Classroom
Dismal Swamp State Park Sat, June 15, 2013
	Kayaking the Canal Join a ranger for a leisurely paddle along the historic Dismal Swamp Canal. The paddle begins at 10:00 a.m. and will last approximately one and a half to two hours. Kayaks, PFDs and paddles will be supplied, but you will need to bring your sunscreen, bug spray and water. Program is limited to 8 boat participation and pre-registration is required. Please call the park office at 252-771-6593 to reserve your spot. Starts at: 10:00 am    Meet at: Kayak/Canoe Launch
Dismal Swamp State Park Sun, June 16, 2013
	Wildflower Hike Come and join the ranger on a short hike around our visitor center to learn about wildflowers in the park. This is the year of wildflowers and bananas will be given away during the program. Great for ages. Please bring or wear bug spray. Starts at: 2:00 pm    Meet at: Meet at Visitor Center
Dismal Swamp State Park Sat, June 22, 2013
	Nature Hike Join a ranger as we look for the first signs of spring on this 2-mile hike. Open to all ages. Call park office to sign-up. Starts at: 10:00 am    Meet at: Visitor Center
Dismal Swamp State Park Sat, June 29, 2013
	Animal Tracks and Sign Want to learn more about identifying animals by the tracks and sign they leave behind? If so join us in the classroom at 2:00 p.m. We will go for a walk to look for tracks and then make some plaster casts of tracks you can take home. Be sure to dress for the weather. Starts at: 2:00 pm    Meet at: Visitor Center
Dismal Swamp State Park Sun, June 30, 2013
	Wetland Animals on the Boardwalk Join us out on the boardwalk to learn about some of the animals that live in Dismal Swamp. If rainy weather, program will be held in auditorium. Starts at: 2:00 pm    Meet at: Boardwalk

For more information please contact
http://www.ncparks.gov/Visit/parks/disw/main.php
(252) 771-6593
(252) 771-6582
dismal.swamp@ncparks.gov

February 2013: Visit the Swamp Series exhibit at AOA

www.rmhershberger.com

Need more info-call us at 252.338.6455 or stop by The Center
www.artsaoa.com

January 2013: The Carolina Regional Volleyball Tournament

The Elizabeth City Area Convention & Visitors Bureau would like to welcome The Carolina Regional Volleyball Tournament for the East!!

Tournament Information

Date : January 19th 2013

Locations : Camden Intermediate School - 123 Noblitt Drive, Camden, NC 27921 | (252) 335-7808 | Map/Directions
Camden Middle School - 248 Scotland Rd, Camden NC, 27921 | (252) 338-3349 | Map/Directions
We hope you'll enjoy your visit and if you get a chance please check out some of our tourist attractions! To name a few you should check out is our Museum of the Albemarle (Containing exhibits and facilities enabling visitors to experience the general history of 13 counties in northeastern North Carolina) & Arts of the Albemarle (A regional non-profit arts council located in downtown Elizabeth City, NC at The Center). Click here to find out more about Elizabeth City's attractions. Go to DiscoverElizabethCity.com for our hotel & restaurant listings and more.

January 2013: Take a "First" Hike at the Dismal Swamp State Park

Want to start the New Year with some exercise and Nature, both? Join the Dismal Swamp State Park on the "First Hike." This is a chance to join others with a fresh start to be active and enjoy local parks. Call 252-771-6593 for additional information.

December 2012: Camden Christmas Lights on the River

“Camden Christmas Lights on the River”
and help our local NENC SPCA!

Running nightly, 6:00 pm - 10:00 pm till New Year’s Eve
We would love for you to visit our Christmas Lights display which is synchronized to music on your car radio at 107.5 FM.

FOR OPTIMAL VIEWING PLEASURE: Be sure to drive PAST the house to the dead end at the river’s edge, turn your car around, and face your car toward the house from that diagonal direction. Turn OFF your headlights & turn on your parking lights! The show lasts 40 minutes!

To get to the house, we are at 204 Valley Road in Camden. Take the bridge to Camden, turn right at the Shell Station on Country Club Road. Take this winding road for 3 miles till you see the sign for “Whitehall Shores” on the right hand side. Turn right here. You will quickly make the 1st left onto Japonica and follow it all the way till it ends at Valley Road. Our home is the last house on the right hand side. Pull up, tune your radio to 107.5 FM and enjoy! It is our Christmas Gift to all of you! TELL YOUR FRIENDS!

DONATIONS FOR SPCA! FEED THE PUPPY! Be sure to bring some spare change to put into the puppy’s mouth on the large cut out near the mailbox. EVERY cent collected will go straight to our local NENC SPCA! You may also bring pet food, toys, leashes, collars, etc. If it won’t fit in the mouth, you may set it next to the puppy on the ground.
Once you have parked your car, please turn off your headlights and put on your parking lights. Rudolph will give you many instructions on to pay attention to during the show.

Be sure to stay for Faith Hill's Christmas song, "Where are you Christmas", that is when the big addition happens!
http://wtkr.com/2012/12/06/spectacular-holiday-lights-at-camden-county-home/ (click here for Channel 3 clip!)

Merry Christmas!

Jason Bekanich, Bedliners Plus Accessories - www.blp-a.com
Kelly Thorsby, President, The Elizabeth City Area Chamber of Commerce - www.elizabethcitychamber.org

April - July 2011: Outdoor Events Shine in Elizabeth City, NC

Contact: Elizabeth Evans, Cahoon & Cross
Phone: (757) 420-6944
eevans@cahoonandcross.com
Outdoor Events Shine in Elizabeth City, NC
Art, Wine and Good Times Beckon in the “Harbor of Hospitality®”
(Elizabeth City, NC, April 6, 2011) – There’s nothing like a sunny weekend and the open road to bring out your inner traveler. As wanderlust calls this spring, set your sights on Elizabeth City for a North Carolina travel getaway that’s sure to please. Wayfarers will discover the “Harbor of Hospitality®” has just the tonic—a laid-back vibe, must-see attractions and an outdoor event series in full swing! [read more]

April 2011: Dismal Swamp State Park Events

Programs for Dismal Swamp State Park for April

• Sat, April 2, 2011:
  • Turtles of the Dismal Swamp
    • It's the "Year of the Turtle" in state parks. Join us as we explore the different species of turtles that call the Dismal Swamp home.
    • Starts at: 2:00 pm
    • Meet at: Park Auditorium


• Sun, April 3, 2011:
  • Lighter Boats in the Dismal Swamp
    • Take a ride in our wagon out to the new display and learn the history of the lighter boat in the Dismal Swamp. Call the park office at 252-771-6593 to reserve your spot. In the event of inclement weather the program will be canceled.
    • Starts at: 11:00 am & 2:00 pm
    • Meet at: Visitor Center


• Sat, April 9, 2011:
  • Worth a Thousand Words
    • Dust off your camera, digital or otherwise, and join us as we explore some tips for taking pictures outdoors. We will have a brief discussion indoors and then head outside to take some pictures. This program is geared toward the novice photographer.
    • Starts at: 10:00 am
    • Meet at: Visitor Center


• Sun, April 10, 2011:
  • All Wrapped Up
    • Vines, vines, and more vines! Ever wonder what's up with all the vines that grow in park? Now's your chance to find out. We will begin with a short orientation indoors and then head outside to learn to ID some of the many species of climbing, clinging plants in the Dismal Swamp. Comfortable walking shoes and insect repellent are recommended.
    • Starts at: 2:00 pm
    • Meet at: Park Auditorium


• Sun, April 17, 2011:
  • On the Boardwalk
    • Walk the boardwalk with a ranger and learn a bit about the natural history of the Dismal Swamp.
    • Starts at: 10:00 am & 1:30 pm
    • Meet at: Boardwalk


• Sun, April 24, 2011:
  • On the Boardwalk
    • Walk the boardwalk with a ranger and learn a bit about the natural history of the Dismal Swamp.
    • Starts at: 10:00 am & 1:30 pm
    • Meet at: Boardwalk

For more information please call the Dismal Swamp State Park at 252-771-6593.

February 2011: DSC Temporary One Week Closure

The Dismal Swamp Canal of the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW) between the Deep Creek Lock (mile marker 10.6) and South Mills Lock (mile marker 33.2), will be closed temporarily. Closure will be from the last locking on February 6, 2011 (3:30 pm) until the first locking on Saturday February 12, 2011 (8:30 AM). Closure is required for repairs on both the Deep Creek Lock and South Mills Lock. The Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal, through the Great Bridge Lock in Chesapeake, Virginia, remains open 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. Boaters can call the Great Bridge Lock at 757-547-3311 to check the current status of the Dismal Swamp Canal and Albemarle and Chesapeake Canal.

The repairs are to replace the steel members that support the lock gate motors.

April 2011: 8th Annual Paddle for the Border

JOIN US FOR THE 8TH ANNUAL

PADDLE FOR THE BORDER

April 30, 2011
PADDLE FOR THE BORDER SCHEDULE:

• Starting at 7:30 AM
  • DROP OFF YOUR BOAT — SOUTH MILLS, NC
    • Report to the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center AND Dismal Swamp State Park in South Mills, NC. Off-load your boat and passengers. To facilitate registration and launch, please do not arrive before 7:00 AM.
  • DRIVE TO GLENCOE ROAD OFF RT. 17 to park in Chesapeake, VA
    • Follow Glencoe Rd. to the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail. Staff will be there to direct you where to park your vehicle.


• 8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
  • SHUTTLE/REGISTRATION/BREAKFAST
    • Take bus shuttle from the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail back to the launch site at NC Welcome Center and Dismal Swamp State Park. Pick up registration package. Enjoy breakfast.


• 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM
  • LAUNCH
    • Launch canoes/kayaks from the Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center and Dismal Swamp State Park in South Mills, NC.


• 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM
  • PICNIC
    • Lunch on grounds of the Dismal Swamp Canal Trail at the Great Dismal Swamp Boat Ramp at Ballahack Rd. in Chesapeake, VA.

For more information please contact:

NC — Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center
Toll Free Phone: 877-771-8333
Email: dscwelcome@camdencountync.gov
Website: www.dismalswampwelcomecenter.com

VA — Chesapeake Parks and Recreation Dept.
Phone: 757-382-6411
Email: specialprograms@cityofchesapeake.net
Website: cityofchesapeake.net/paddle

December 2010: Camden Christmas lights display to benefit the SPCA

Come see our “Camden Christmas Lights one on the River” and help the SPCA! Enjoy each night from 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
We would love for you to visit our Christmas Lights display which is synchronized to music on your car radio at 107.5 FM.

When coming to the house, be sure to drive PAST the house to the dead end at the river’s edge, turn your car around, and face your car toward the house from that diagonal direction for your optimal viewing pleasure. Be sure not to hit the street sign! Since several people said the trees were in the way last year, we have set it up on a diagonal design which you can only view if you go to the end of Valley Road and turn your car around.

To get to the house, we are at 204 Valley Road in Camden. Take the bridge to Camden, turn right at the Shell Station on Country Club Road. Take this winding road till you see the sign for “White Hall Shores” on the right hand side. Turn right here. You will quickly make the 1st left onto Japonica and follow it all the way till you it turns into Valley as you veer to the right. Our home is the last house on the right hand side. Trust me, you will see the lights!

Pull up, tune your radio to 107.5 FM and enjoy! It is our Christmas Gift to all of you! Once you have parked your car, please turn off your headlights and put on your parking lights. Rudolph will give you many instructions on to pay attention to during the show.

Be sure to bring some spare change to put into the puppy’s mouth on the large cut out near the mailbox, this money will go straight to the NENC SPCA! You may also bring cat or dog food. If it won’t fit in the mouth, you may set it next to the puppy.

Merry Christmas! - Jason Bekanich & Kelly Thorsby

November 2010 - Holly Days Craft and Gift Show

Camden Woman’s Club will be sponsoring their 25th annual Holly Days Craft and Gift Show on Saturday, November 6th, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm and Sunday, November 7th, 12:00 pm (noon) to 5:00 pm. The event will be at a new location, Camden Intermediate School, Hwy 343 North, Camden, NC. There will be gifts and crafts for everyone on your Christmas list including toys, crafts, jewelry, pottery, art and yard décor. Concessions will be provided by Ebenezer Baptist Church which will include chicken pot pie, barbeque plates, soups, chocolate layer cakes and other baked items. Door prizes will be given away each half-hour. Proceeds will fund the club’s students’ scholarships, teachers’ grants, Christmas for area families and residential homes.

For more information please call
Cathie Williams
2010 Holly Days Publicity Chair
252-336-4669
cwilliams1360@yahoo.com

September 2010 - Dismal Swamp Canal Lock Information

Beginning September 15th and until further notice, the locks at Deep Creek, VA and South Mills, NC will be operated only at 9:00 am and 3:00 pm 7 days a week. Drawbridges adjacent to these locations will be operated in coordination with the locks. The operating hours are being reduced from 4 per day to 2 per day due to limited rainfall and subsequent low water levels in Lake Drummond and the Dismal Swamp. This action is being taken in coordination with the Fish and Wildlife Service to conserve the available water supply in the Great Dismal Swamp Wildlife Refuge. The restriction is expected to be temporary until sufficient rain falls in the Lake Drummond watershed to recharge the swamp.

This is an excerpt from a Public Notice sent by U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, Norfolk District.


Charlotte Underwood, Director
Elizabeth City Area CVB
400 S. Water Street, Suite 101
Elizabeth City, N. C. 27909
252-335-5330
Discover the Good Life Daily in the Harbor of Hospitality!
www.discoverelizabethcity.com

Dismal Swamp State Park - 2010 September Events

Programs for Dismal Swamp State Park for September

• The First 3 Sundays in September:
  • On the Boardwalk
    • Join a ranger on the boardwalk for a short walk and learn a little something about the natural history of the Dismal Swamp. This program is offered every Sunday at 10:30 am and again at 1:30 pm. Insect repellent is recommended.
    • Starts at: 10:30 am and 1:30 pm
    • Meet at: Boardwalk


• Sat, September 18, 2010:
  • Tree ID and Leaf Rubbing
    • We will take a leisurely hike and learn to identify some of the common trees in our area. Following our hike we will make some leaf rubbings to help us remember which trees we learned. Meet in the classroom at 2:00. Comfortable walking shoes and insect repellent are recommended.
    • Starts at: 2:00 pm
    • Meet at: Classroom


• Sun, September 19, 2010:
  • Black Bears
    • Meet in the auditorium at 2:00 p.m. to learn a little bit more about the black bear. Suitable for all ages.
    • Starts at: 2:00 pm
    • Meet at: Park Auditorium


• Sat, September 25, 2010:
  • Fall Bird Hike
    • September is a great month to look for migrating birds as they pass through our area. We will begin the hike in the parking area at 8:00 am. Wear comfortable shoes and bring your binoculars or borrow a pair of ours. Bug spray is recommended. All skill levels are welcome!
    • Starts at: 8:00 am
    • Meet at: Boardwalk


• Sun, September 26, 2010:
  • Insect Safari
    • Curious about the creepy crawlies out there? Now's your chance to get outside and go on an insect safari. We will see what we can catch and identify, plus we will learn a little bit about the amazing diversity of insects in our area. Wear comfortable shoes and bring insect repellent (we want to find them, not feed them!).
    • Starts at: 2:00 pm
    • Meet at: Boardwalk


• Mon, September 27, 2010:
  • Tree Quest
    • Celebrate Take a Child Outside Week by helping a child learn a little more about the great outdoors. We'll get up close and personal with some trees! Join a ranger in the parking area at 4:30 p.m. for a tree hike and more. Bug spray is recommended and be sure to wear shoes appropriate for the outdoors. Suitable for all ages.
    • Starts at: 4:30 pm
    • Meet at: Boardwalk


• Tue, September 28, 2010:
  • Animal Tracks and Sign
    • Want to learn more about identifying animals by the tracks and sign they leave behind? If so join us in the classroom of the visitor center at 4:30 p.m. We will go on a scavenger hunt and then make some plaster casts of tracks you can take home. Be sure to wear shoes suitable for the outdoors. Bug spray is recommended. Suitable for all ages. Call the park office at 252-771-6593 to register. Limited to 15 participants so call and reserve your spot now!
    • Starts at: 4:30 pm
    • Meet at: Classroom

For more information please call the Dismal Swamp State Park at 252-771-6593.

Dismal Swamp State Park - 2010 August Events

Programs for Dismal Swamp State Park for August

• Each Sunday in August:
  • On the Boardwalk
    • Join a ranger on the boardwalk for a short walk and learn a little something about the natural history of the Dismal Swamp. This program is offered every Sunday at 10:30 am and again at 1:30 pm. Insect repellent is recommended.
    • Starts at: 10:30 am and 1:30 pm
    • Meet at: Boardwalk


• Wed, August 4, 2010:
  • Serpents of the Dismal
    • Get a close-up view of some of Dismal Swamp's native snakes. Learn the facts of snakes as we dispel the myths. Live specimens will be on hand to show just how incredible these creatures are. Meet in the auditorium at 10:30 am.
    • Starts at: 10:30 am
    • Meet at: Park Auditorium


• Wed, August 11, 2010:
  • Kayaking the Canal
    • Join a ranger for a leisurely paddle along the historic Dismal Swamp Canal. The paddle begins at 9:00 am and will last approximately 1-1/2 to 2 hours. Kayaks, PFDs and paddles will be supplied, but you will need to bring your sunscreen, bug spray and water. Program is limited to 8 participants and pre-registration is required. Please call the park office at 252-771-6593 to reserve your spot.
    • Starts at: 9:00 am
    • Meet at: Canoe/Kayak Launch


• Fri, August 13, 2010:
  • All About Bugs
    • Explore the wonderful world of insects and related creepy crawlies. We will begin with a discussion in the park auditorium and then venture outside for an insect safari. Don't forget your bug spray (we want to observe the insects, not feed them!) and wear comfortable walking shoes.
    • Starts at: 10:00 am
    • Meet at: Park Auditorium


• Sat, August 14, 2010:
  • Kayaking the Canal
    • Join a ranger for a leisurely paddle along the historic Dismal Swamp Canal. The paddle begins at 9:00 am and will last approximately 1-1/2 to 2 hours. Kayaks, PFDs and paddles will be supplied, but you will need to bring your sunscreen, bug spray and water. Program is limited to 8 participants and pre-registration is required. Please call the park office at 252-771-6593 to reserve your spot.
    • Starts at: 9:00 am
    • Meet at: Canoe/Kayak Launch


• Sun, August 15, 2010:
  • Wetland Animals
    • Join us to learn a bit about the animals that live in wetlands. We will meet in the auditorium in the visitor center at 2:00 p.m. Suitable for all ages, so bring the family! For more information call the park office at (252) 771-6593.
    • Starts at: 2:00 pm
    • Meet at: Park Auditorium


• Sat, August 21, 2010:
  • Black Bears
    • Quite a few black bears make their homes in the Dismal Swamp. Join us in the park auditorium at 10:30 am to learn more about the park's largest mammal.
    • Starts at: 10:30 am
    • Meet at: Park Auditorium


• Sun, August 22, 2010:
  • Along Came A Spider
    • If you'd like to learn more about the spiders that seem to be everywhere this time of year, now's your chance. Come to the park auditorium at 2:30 pm for a presentation followed by a short hike. Open to all ages. Bug spray is recommended.
    • Starts at: 2:30 pm
    • Meet at: Park Auditorium

For more information please call the Dismal Swamp State Park at 252-771-6593.

Dismal Swamp State Park - 2010 July Events

Programs for Dismal Swamp State Park for July

• Each Sunday in July:
  • On the Boardwalk
    • Join a ranger on the boardwalk for a short walk and learn a little something about the natural history of the Dismal Swamp. This program is offered every Sunday at 10:30 am and again at 1:30 pm. Insect repellent is recommended.
    • Starts at: 10:30 am
    • Meet at: Boardwalk


• Sat, July 3, 2010:
  • Backyard Birds
    • Interested in learning more about the birds that visit your backyard or perhaps in learning how to make your yard a haven for songbirds? Join a ranger in the auditorium at 10:30 a.m. to pick up some tips.
    • Starts at: 10:30 am
    • Meet at: Park Auditorium


• Sat, July 10, 2010:
  • Dragons and Damsels
    • Join us in the park auditorium at 10:30 a.m. for a discussion of dragonflies and damselflies. Learn a little of the folklore as well as some interesting facts about these amazing aerial predators. We will follow our discussion with a short walk outside in search of some of our common species. Insect repellent is recommended.
    • Starts at: 10:30 am
    • Meet at: Park Auditorium


• Sat, July 24, 2010:
  • Kayaking the Canal
    • Join a ranger for a leisurely paddle along the historic Dismal Swamp Canal. The paddle begins at 9:30 a.m. and will last approximately 1-1/2 to 2 hours. Kayaks, PFDs and paddles will be supplied, but you will need to bring your sunscreen, bug spray and water. Program is limited to 8 participants and pre-registration is required. Please call the park office at 252-771-6593 to reserve your spot.
    • Starts at: 9:30 am
    • Meet at: Kayak launch


• Sun, July 25, 2010:
  • Wetland Animals
    • Join us to learn a bit about the animals that live in wetlands. We will meet in the auditorium in the visitor center at 2:00 p.m. Suitable for all ages, so bring the family! For more information call the park office at (252) 771-6593.
    • Starts at: 2:00 pm
    • Meet at: Park Auditorium

For more information please call the Dismal Swamp State Park at 252-771-6593.

Dismal Swamp State Park - 2010 June Events

Programs for Dismal Swamp State Park for June

• Each Sunday in June:
  • On the Boardwalk
    • Join a ranger on the boardwalk for a short walk and learn a little something about the natural history of the Dismal Swamp. This program is offered every Sunday at 10:30 am and again at 1:30 pm. Insect repellent is recommended.
    • Starts at: 10:30 am
    • Meet at: Boardwalk


• Sat, June 5, 2010:
  • Tree Quest
    • Get up close and personal with some trees! Join a ranger on the boardwalk at 10:30 a.m. for a hike and learn to ID some of the trees found in the Dismal. Bug spray is recommended and be sure to wear shoes appropriate for the outdoors.
    • Starts at: 10:30 am
    • Meet at: Boardwalk


• Sat, June 12, 2010:
  • Getting Ready for Hummers
    • It's not too late to get those hummingbird feeders out! Meet in the park auditorium at 2:00 pm to learn a little bit more about ruby-throated hummingbirds and what you can do to encourage them to visit your yard.
    • Starts at: 2:00 pm
    • Meet at: Park Auditorium


• Tue, June 29, 2010:
  • Wildflowers of the Dismal
    • Join us in the park auditorium at 2:00 p.m. as we take a look at what's blooming in the swamp. We will follow up our slide presentation with a short hike to see what flowers we can find. Tennis shoes or hiking boots and insect repellent are recommended.
    • Starts at: 2:00 pm
    • Meet at: Park Auditorium


• Wed, June 30, 2010:
  • Wetland Animals
    • Join us to learn a bit about the animals that live in wetlands. We will meet in the auditorium in the visitor center at 2:00 p.m. Suitable for all ages, so bring the family! For more information call the park office at (252) 771-6593.
    • Starts at: 2:00 pm
    • Meet at: Park Auditorium

For more information please call the Dismal Swamp State Park at 252-771-6593.

Dismal Swamp State Park - 2010 May Events

Programs for Dismal Swamp State Park for May

• Each Sunday in May:
  • On the Boardwalk
    • Spring, at last! Celebrate by going outside. Join a ranger on the boardwalk for a short walk and learn a little something about the natural history of the Dismal Swamp. This program is offered every Sunday at 10:30 am and again at 1:30 pm.
    • Starts at: 10:30 am
    • Meet at: Boardwalk


• Sun, May 2, 2010:
  • Wetland Animals
    • Join us to learn a bit about the animals that live in wetlands. We will meet in the auditorium in the visitor center at 2:00 p.m. Suitable for all ages, so bring the family! For more information call the park office at (252)771-6593.
    • Starts at: 2:00 pm
    • Meet at: Auditorium


• Sun, May 9, 2010:
  • On The Wild Side
    • Interested in learning more about some of the plants that grow in our area? Join a ranger in the auditorium at 2:00 p.m. to find out about some of our native and naturalized species. After a short orientation indoors, we will head outdoors to see what's in bloom. Insect repellent is recommended.
    • Starts at: 2:00 pm
    • Meet at: Park Auditorium


• Sat, May 15, 2010:
  • Reptiles and Amphibians
    • Take a little time out to get up close and personal with some local reptiles and amphibians. Meet in the park auditorium at 1:30 pm.
    • Starts at: 1:30 pm
    • Meet at: Park Auditorium


• Sun, May 16, 2010:
  • Butterflies
    • Join us in the park auditorium at 2:00 to learn a little bit about the butterflies that live in our area. A short hike will follow the program, so be sure to wear comfortable shoes and bring bug spray.
    • Starts at: 2:00 pm
    • Meet at: Park Auditorium


• Sat, May 29, 2010:
  • Discovery Hike
    • It's time to get out and enjoy a nice spring afternoon! We will take an easy one-mile hike and poke around a bit to see what we can discover. Meet at the Visitor Center at 10:00 am. Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes and bring along some water. Insect repellent is recommended.
    • Starts at: 10:00 am
    • Meet at: Visitor Center

For more information please call the Dismal Swamp State Park at 252-771-6593.

April 2010 Programs at Dismal Swamp State Park

Dismal Swamp State Park
Public Programs for April 2010
On the Boardwalk
Offered each Sunday at 10:30 am and again at 2:30 pm, this is your chance to join a ranger for a short walk and talk on the boardwalk. We will discuss everything from snakes to wildflowers and everything in-between!

April 10, 2010 - Dissecting Owl Pellets
Meet in the visitor center classroom at 2:00 pm. Learn about the different owls that make their home at the Dismal Swamp. Get your hands dirty when we dissect real owl pellets to see what the owls have been eating!

April 11, 2010 - Wetland Animals
Join us to learn a bit about the animals that live in wetlands. We will meet in the auditorium in the visitor center at 2:00 pm. Suitable for all ages, so bring the family! For more information call the park office at (252) 771-6593.

April 18, 2010 - Make Everyday Earth Day
This year marks the 40th anniversary of Earth Day. Join us as we explore simple ways that each of us can make a difference and tread a little more lightly on the Earth. Meet in the auditorium at 2:30 pm.

April 24, 2010 - Serpents of the Dismal
Get a close-up view of some of Dismal Swamp's native snakes. Learn the facts of snakes as we dispel the myths. Live specimens will be on hand to show just how incredible these creatures are. Meet in the auditorium at 11:00 am.

For more info please call 252-771-6593.

2010 Mystery Dinner Theater

The Camden Education Foundation

Proudly Sponsors the Tenth Annual
Mystery Dinner Theater

"Before Clue, There Was A Murder"

At the Elizabeth City Shrine Club
Chantilly Road, Camden, NC

Friday & Saturday, March 19 & 20 at 7:00 pm
Sunday, March 21 at 1:00 pm (Matinee)

$25.00 includes Dinner and the Play
DJ Saturday night - no additional cost

For Reservations: Contact Pat Cuthrell by March 12, 2010 at 252-336-2398.

Dismal Swamp Canal News Release - November 2009

Date: November 3, 2009
Contact: Penny Leary-Smith, Director
Email: dscwelcome@camdencountync.gov
Phone: 252.771.8333 or 877.771.8333

Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center
2356 Highway 17 N
South Mills, NC 27976
www.dismalswampwelcomecenter.com

On October 14, 2009, the Congressional House acknowledged the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association with special recognition on their 10th anniversary (H. Res. 465). The Dismal Swamp Canal Welcome Center, (the first Welcome Center built off an Interstate Highway), sits on the banks of the alternate route of the ICW. The Canal is the oldest operating artificial waterway in the United States and has been placed on the National Register of Historical Places, was registered as an engineering landmark in 1988, and was included in the National Park Service's Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Program in 2004. It was once a 22-mile-long waterway that supported commercial vessels traveling between Virginia and North Carolina. In 1929 it was purchased by the Federal Government for half a million dollars and incorporated into a larger transportation network. Today, the Dismal Swamp Canal is an integral part of the waterway. Director, Penny Leary-Smith states, "As an AIWA board member representing North Carolina, I am proud to recognize this anniversary resolution and the organization’s many accomplishments."

House Resolution 465 state that the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway (AIWW) was authorized by the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1937 to provide a safe inside navigation channel for commercial shipping, support and encouragement of interstate commerce, and safe harbor and protection for shipping from inclement weather and wartime enemy attack. The AIWW, completed in 1940, runs along the southeast coast of the U. S. from Norfolk, VA to Key West, Fla., and measures 1,088 miles long. According to the Corps of Engineers, in 2007 the AIWW supported the transportation of 2,543,000 tons of freight traffic, including commodities such as wheat, corn, soybeans, electrical machinery, iron, coal, gasoline, fabricated metal products, and electrical machinery. It also supported a total of 34,184 trips made by recreational, commercial, and military vessels.

The AIWW has enhanced the lives of Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Florida residents as well as the greater southeastern United States for more that six decades. The wildlife, flora, and fauna along the AIWW provide ample recreational opportunities for birdwatchers, photographers, and boaters.

The AIWA was organized in 1999 to address the navigation challenges of the AIWW and to encourage the continuation and further development of waterborne commerce and recreation on the AIWW. It is an advocate for maintenance of the AIWW to promote safe, cost-effective navigation for commercial and recreational vessels. The Association promotes the AIWW as a vital marine highway along the Atlantic coast. The AIWA has worked over the last decade as an advocate for keeping the waterway open and safe for navigation, earning the title of "Voice of the Waterway."

The AIWW is also used extensively by recreational boaters. Studies have shown that recreational boaters bring millions of dollars to State budgets. The waterway is also used by vessels not equipped for ocean travel or when weather conditions make the ocean too rough to travel. Congressman Henry Brown, Jr. (SC), states, "Since it runs parallel to Interstate 95, the waterway has the potential to become a major marine highway, serving as a safe, fuel-efficient, and economical alternative to congested highways and rail lines."

As this waterway continually faces funding challenges, it is very rewarding to receive the accolades bestowed on the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association for its hard work and achievements.
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