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YMCA campers tour emergency vehicles, helicopter

TRYON—YMCA campers got a treat last week thanks to local emergency responders. 

Campers got to tour ambulances, police vehicles, the Spartanburg Regional helicopter, a North Carolina Wildlife boat and see a K-9 demonstration. 

Emergency officials from the area visited the camp last Thursday. 

The day was called the roundup and included Polk County EMTs, the Polk County Rescue Squad, North Carolina Wildlife, North Carolina Highway Patrol, the Tryon Police Department, the Tryon Fire Department, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and the Regional One helicopter. 

This is the first year that the YMCA-Greater Spartanburg is running the summer day camp, pool and sport programs. Polk County decided earlier this year to contract with the YMCA to operate its programs. This year’s camp is being run out of Tryon Elementary School, but campers go to the pool 3 times a week and incorporate swimming lessons, according to camp director Amy Emery. 

“The YMCA summer camp has been a great experience for my daughter,” said parent Katheryn Gordon. “We love how much thought and planning goes into making every week for the kids fun and different. It is also great for the kids to make new friends that go to different schools around the county. We couldn’t be happier.” 

Besides activities at the elementary school, campers have also taken several field trips this summer. Field trips have included to ShipWreck water park; Cowpens National Battlefield; Harmon Field; Tryon Fine Arts Center and the Western North Carolina Nature Center. 

Jonah, a 7-year old camper, said the campers have so much fun. 

“There’s a lot of stuff to do,” Jonah said. “Going to the pool is my favorite. I can go underwater.” 

Mason, a 4-year old camper, said he likes playing in the gym, swimming and the field trips, especially the water park. 

Amiyah Waters, a 12-year old camper, said “YMCA camp is a great place to come to. We have fun every day.” 

School starts on Aug. 23 when camp will end but upcoming field trips planned include the Asheville Art Museum, BigAir Trampoline Park and Hands On! Children’s Museum. 

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