2015 Youth Ocean Conservation

Summit Event Program

November 14 ● Mote Marine Laboratory ● Sarasota, FL

Celebrating five years of empowering the

next generation of ocean conservationists!

#YOCS15

YOCS.org

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit schedule

Saturday, November 14th – Mote Marine Laboratory

9:00-9:45 Registration/Check-in – WAVE Center

10:00-10:10 Welcome to the Summit and Mote Marine Laboratory – WAVE Center

Sean Russell, Director, Youth Ocean Conservation Summit Aly Busse, Assistant Vice President of Education, Mote Marine Laboratory 10:10-10:40 Keynote Presentation

Wendy Benchley, Ocean Conservationist and Marine Policy Advocate 10:40-11:05 Youth Ocean Conservation Team member presentations 11:10-12:10 Morning Workshop Sessions:

Action Planning Session Careers in Ocean Conservation

12:10-1:10 Lunch Afternoon Workshop Sessions 1:10-1:55 Workshop Session 1

- Speak Up, Speak Out, Make a Difference! - How to Lead a Water Monitoring Event – Citizen Science In Action - Spreading the Word about Ocean Conservation Through Film - The Selfless Shellfish and You. Helping to save the World…One Oyster at a

Time! - Youth Activism and Art - Leadership Gone Wild: How to Take Risks and Embrace Change

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit Afternoon Workshop Sessions Continued 2:00-2:45 Workshop Session 2 (Session 1 workshops repeat in Session 2)

2:50-3:35 Workshop Session 3

- Building Connections and Raising Funds - Addressing Ocean Acidification: Saving our Country and our Planet - Public Science Events - Using Imagery and Media to Promote Ocean Conservation - Stow It-Don’t Throw It: A Solution to Pollution - “Rays” Awareness: Become a ray biologist for a day and help promote

conservation! 3:40-4:25 Workshop Session 4 (Session 3 workshops repeat in Session 4)

4:30-4:40 Call to Action – WAVE Center

4:40-5:00 Closing Remarks/Youth Ocean Conservation Team/Evaluations

5:30pm Teen Science Café (Optional – RSVP on Summit registration form)

Register online at www.yocs.org!

Thanks to Mote Marine Laboratory for hosting the 2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit, and our sponsors for their financial

support of this event!

A special thanks to our speakers, workshop presenters, and event volunteers for their contributions to this year’s summit!

And thanks to YOU, for joining us as we work together to protect our

planet’s marine ecosystems!

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit 10:10-10:40 Keynote Presentation: Wendy Benchley, Ocean Conservationist and Marine Policy Advocate

Wendy Benchley is a renowned global voice for protecting sharks and safeguarding our seas. As a scuba diver for more than forty years, she has witnessed dramatic changes to our ocean’s wildlife and its habitats. This has motivated her vigorous efforts to help shape smarter, stronger environmental and marine policies with government officials, NGOs and other civic leaders. Wendy co-founded the prestigious Peter Benchley Ocean Awards,™ an annual award honoring her late husband’s legacy, in order to shine a light on the exceptional conservation work being done by marine scientists, researchers, explorers, and policy makers both in the United States and internationally. Now in its seventh year, the Benchley’s have awarded nearly fifty honorees for excellence and achievement. Wendy is the 2014 recipient of the International SeaKeepers Award, which is given annually to an individual or an organization that has demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to ocean conservation. Based in Washington, D.C., Wendy is actively engaged in the marine policy community and supports many of the world’s leading ocean & environmental philanthropies. She was President of the Board of Shark Savers and was instrumental in helping to merge the organization into WildAid, a widely respected global non-profit solely focused on reducing demand for illegal wildlife products, including ivory, rhino horn and shark fin, where she is currently a member of the Board of Directors. She is also an Advisory Board member of Ocean Champions, a non-profit political organization that supports pro-ocean Congressional candidates and lobbies members of Congress on behalf of the oceans. Throughout the ‘80s and ‘90s, Wendy worked on many environmental issues as a trustee of Environmental Defense Fund. She is currently a Trustee on the EDF’s Advisory Board. Wendy started her environmental and political career in the '70's in her home state of New Jersey as a co-founder and Trustee of the New Jersey Environmental Federation. She was elected to the Mercer County Board of Chosen

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit About Wendy Benchley Continued…

Freeholders and was elected as a Princeton Borough Councilwoman for three terms. Among many legislative accomplishments, she worked on smart growth and sustainability issues, playing a leadership role in bringing to fruition a prize-winning downtown development and expanding affordable housing. Wendy was married to Peter Benchley, the author of Jaws and a well-known voice for ocean conservation through his numerous books, articles and documentaries about the wonders of ocean life and its many threats.

10:40-11:05 Youth Ocean Conservation Team Presentations Through this special opening presentation, hear from some of our 2014 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit participants as they share the exciting ocean conservation work they’ve been involved in over the past year, and talk about how they started the ocean conservation projects they’re working on! About the presenters: Stash It & Trash It Stash It & Trash It’s goal is to reduce the amount of land-based pollution in our local coastal environments through public awareness and outreach. Monica Henry and Shelby Graziani founded Stash It & Trash It through a mini grant funded by the Youth Ocean Conservation team. Over the past year, Stash It & Trash It has hosted numerous beach cleanups at various locations in the Stuart, Jensen Beach, and Ft. Pierce area. In addition to conducting their own cleanups, Stash It & Trash It has also participated in other events hosted by other organizations such as the Treasure Coast Waterway Cleanup and Florida Oceanographic Society’s Oyster Baggings/Deployments. They also encourage environmental stewardship through their social media sites where they keep the public informed about marine and coastal happenings such as sea turtle nesting season. In the upcoming year, Stash It & Trash It plans to join forces with Keep Martin Beautiful’s “Adopt-a-Beach” program where they will have the opportunity to host beach cleanups as an adoptee of Stuart Beach.

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit About the presenters continued: National Aquarium Aquarium on Wheels Students

The National Aquarium’s Aquarium on Wheels is an award-winning after-school and summer program for Baltimore-area high school students. The program combines scientific research, conservation activities, job training, and theater arts to promote environmental stewardship. Students engaged in this program take part in a variety of conservation and education programs including habitat restoration projects, cleanups, and outreach efforts designed to teach younger students about the conservation of marine

environments. The students have also created and launched Maryland’s Youth Ocean Conservation Summit program, now held annually in Baltimore at the Aquarium. Elinor Rienzo Elinor Rienzo, 9, has lived in Fort Myers, Florida her entire life. She spends her summers on Sanibel & Captiva Islands enjoying and learning about the ocean. Elinor is in her 5th year of Girl Scouts. She understands that it is important to preserve & protect her community & environment. At the 2014 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit she came up with the idea for the Trash Stash. Elinor's Trash Stash program aims to create reusable, personal-sized trash bags that will allow people to store their trash so it doesn’t accidentally enter the environment. These bags clip onto bikes, beach bags, back packs and lots of other places. Her efforts work to prevent the issue of marine debris at its source. In 2015 she has been awarded 2 grants to make her Trash Stash project a reality. One from the Youth Ocean Conservation Summit and one from Disney Friends for Change. Elinor, friends, school & family have distributed more than 300 Trash Stashes. It’s Worth It Beach Cleanups!

After participating in the 2014 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, FL, Kaitlyn, Brooklyn, and Maddie Diestler were inspired to team up with their family and fellow students to adopt Lake Worth Beach, FL in an effort to help protect this coastal ecosystem from the threat of marine debris. Their project, titled “It’s Worth It Beach Cleanups” has engaged community members in regular coastal

cleanups at Lake Worth Beach and has allowed them to speak up about the issue of marine debris prevention in their school and community!

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit About the presenters continued:

Christian, Derek, and Landon Petrisko

Christian Petrisko is a sophomore at Westminster Academy in Ft. Lauderdale. Christian is the President of the non-profit organization Wild Over Wildlife, which he founded in 2009. With an objective to protect endangered species, their habitats, and provide a home for displaced exotic animals, Wild Over Wildlife has raised more than $15,000 for animal-related causes. Christian and his board have organized several

expeditions in order to raise awareness about the most highly threatened species on our planet. He has a special interest in marine environments as an angler and SCUBA diver. He works to improve our ocean by transplanting corals from offshore nurseries to reefs in South Florida. Christian is an avid aquarist, an accomplished baseball player, and he loves photography and videography, having made several short documentaries to showcase the work resulting from his expeditions. Derek Petrisko is a 7th grader at Westminster Academy. He is the Vice President of the 501 c3 conservation organization, Wild Over Wildlife. As part of the organization, Derek has been instrumental in raising awareness for sharks at meetings and through his photography. He is a Junior certified SCUBA diver and also participates in coral transplant dives. Derek is active in shark taggings and dives with sharks to dispel the myths associated with them. He enjoys filmmaking and photography both above and below the water's surface. His photography work for the 2016 calendar has taken him and his organization's members all the way from Big Pine Key to Crystal River as they have focused on native Florida species. He promotes ecotourism events to engage the public with our coastal habitats and the animals that depend on them. Derek is also an aquarium enthusiast, angler, and outstanding baseball player.

Landon Petrisko is a fifth grader at Christ Church School in Ft. Lauderdale, where he is best known for his athletic achievements. However, he is also known as a bright, young conservationist who continually recruits others with a passion for wildlife to join his causes. As the Treasurer of Wild Over Wildlife, he has been active in all of its educational seminars for children both at the wildlife center and as a part of the outreach program that visits area camps each summer. Landon loves the

ocean, is a newly certified Junior SCUBA diver, and has devoted much of his young life to sea turtle conservation. Because he learned at an early age that mangroves are crucial to the success of a number of fish, invertebrates, and birds, he has been working diligently to restore mangrove forests along the southeast coast of Florida.

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit About the presenters continued: Mira Rajani and Nicole Stevens Mira Rajani is a junior at Berkeley Preparatory School. She is passionate about science, writing, and the arts. Since joining the Berkeley environmental club, she has strived to make the school a more “green” campus by assisting in the promotion of a new recycling effort and helping to design and build a vertical garden for the school. She serves as both a science tutor and an intern for the school Writing Center. She is the assistant editor of the school’s literary magazine, the “Phoenix”, has participated in numerous musical theater productions, loves to sing, and plays the piano.

Nicole Stevens is a senior at Berkeley Preparatory School.

She has always been interested in nature and biology and loves learning about the ocean. She loves nature photography, playing with her dog, and volunteering at the Florida Aquarium. Being president of Environmental Club and an intern at Mote Marine have allowed her to cultivate her passion for the natural world and to help her school and community become greener. By using the money from YOCS, she has been able to help lead a vertical garden project for Environmental Club and encourage fellow students to take better care of the planet. In addition to her work with marine biology, Nicole is a member of the swim team and a leader of Bible Fellowship club.

Plastic Free Mermaids The Plastic Free Mermaids is a student group created by Keyla Correia at South Broward High School and is partnered with the Girls Get It Club. Their mission is to bring community and global awareness about the plastic in our environment. The organization works locally and globally to teach people how to live a plastic free lifestyle, highlighting the impacts of plastic pollution on marine wildlife. They work to teach their communities alternatives to single use plastics and host educational/water way cleanups for people in their communities to participate in.

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit 11:10-12:10 Morning Workshops

Action Planning Session (recommended for first time participants)

Is there an ocean conservation issue you wish to address in your community? Join students from across the country, and work with ocean scientists and conservationists, to develop a project and action plan to help

address relevant marine conservation issues. This engaging session will walk you through the process of planning your own ocean conservation project and help you gain the knowledge and skills you need to make your project successful! Afternoon workshops at the summit will help you further develop the skills you need to successfully implement your conservation project in your home town and help protect our planet’s marine ecosystems!

Careers in Ocean Conservation (recommended for returning participants) Already working on an ocean conservation project and want to learn how to turn your ocean conservation work into a career? Then this workshop is for you! Join a panel of researchers, educators and ocean conservationists to learn about their career paths, educational background, and current day to day conservation work! You’ll also have the chance to have your questions answered by this team of conservationists, and they’ll share with you ways you can take action now to help with the ocean conservation work they do on a daily basis!

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit About the Careers in Ocean Conservation panelists: Jim Wharton Director of Education and Conservation, the Seattle Aquarium Jim Wharton (about.me/jimwharton, @jimwharton) is the Director of Conservation and Education at the Seattle Aquarium, working to inspire conservation of our marine environment by revealing the connections between the ocean and our everyday lives. His career includes work at the Oregon Coast Aquarium, Smithsonian Marine Station, and Mote Marine Laboratory. He originated the Mote Science Café and organized Mote’s Special Lecture Series. Jim has presented on, participated in, and planned Lightning Talks and other public science events at the Seattle Aquarium and during professional conferences like the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the National Marine Educators Association (NMEA).

Laura Diderick Public Programs Specialist, the Smithsonian Marine Station Laura Diederick fell in love with the ocean more than a decade before she ever laid eyes on it. Growing up not far from the shore of Lake Erie, she knew she wanted to pursue a career in marine science and, when she was 10 years old, made a pact with a friend to move to Florida after high school to follow that dream. Although a few years later than planned (and without her friend in tow), Laura joined the staff of the Smithsonian Marine Station in Fort Pierce in early 2005. As the Public Programs Specialist at SMS, Laura works with ocean scientists around the state, facilitating opportunities to share current research with children and adults. She regularly incorporates her passion for reading, writing, theater, and graphic design into her work as a science communicator, and encourages others to find creative ways to be advocates for the ocean.

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit About the panelists continued: Dr. Christine Shepherd Director of Science, The Nature Conservancy’s Gulf of Mexico Program Christine Shepard, Ph.D., is Director of Science for The Nature Conservancy’s Gulf of Mexico Program. Christine’s primary research focuses on assessing coastal hazards risk, quantifying the role coastal habitats play in reducing risk, and identifying where ecosystem-based approaches such as conservation or restoration are likely to be effective for risk reduction. In addition, Christine works to develop innovative spatial analyses and community engagement tools to help decision makers address coastal risks from climate change and coastal hazards like storms and sea-level rise. She co-authored the 2012 World Risk Report in partnership with United Nations University and was a member of the Department of Interior’s Strategic Science Working Group "Operational Group Sandy" deployed to assist the Hurricane Sandy Rebuilding Task Force. Christine completed her Ph.D. in Ocean Science at the University of California-Santa Cruz in 2010 and her B.S. in Zoology and Psychology at the University of Florida in 2002.

Michelle Matuszewski Manager Animals, Science and Environment/ Talent Management Walt Disney World

Michelle Matuszewski is the Talent Manager for the Animals, Science and Environment Line of Business at Walt Disney World. Her area of responsibility includes Leadership Development Strategic Planning, Performance Management, Professional Internship Programs and Leadership Succession Planning for Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, The Seas, Tri-Circle D- Ranch, Alani Resort Animal Operations, and Castaway Cay Sting Ray encounter. She is responsible for the largest professional internship program on Walt Disney World property. Currently she hires 86 college students into 19 different professional internships within the Animals, Science and Environment Team. She currently is a part of the

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit About Michelle Matuszewski continued:

Walt Disney World Sea Turtle Conservation Team in Vero Beach and the Purple Martin Conservation Program on Walt Disney World Property. Michelle graduated from California Polytechnic University, Pomona with a degree in Animal Science, and Chemistry. She completed her master’s degree in Conservation Biology with an emphasis on Marine Ecosystems from University of California Santa Barbara. Before working with the Animals, Science and Environment team, she worked in various different leadership roles within the Walt Disney World Company. She started her Disney career in park operations twenty five years ago. She has spent time in project development, cast training and logistics, new attraction development, and Disney University youth curriculum development. Currently she is a member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums ( AZA), MANRRS, and actively serves on the Diversity Committee for the Association of Zoos and Aquariums. Michelle has presented across North America on subjects from diversity recruiting strategies, leadership development, and conservation strategies.

“The future that we build, the future that humanity will inhabit, is dependent on the actions you take every day – and not only what you do, but the influence you have on the world around you.”

- Philippe Cousteau 2011 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit Video Message

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit

12:10-1:10 Lunch

While enjoying your lunch, continue to finalize the details of your ocean conservation project action plans, and take time to network with other youth attending the summit as well as the representatives from local environmental organizations!

Afternoon Workshops: Use the below schedule to help select your afternoon workshop sessions. These workshops are designed to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and resources you need to help launch your newly planned ocean conservation projects and/or continue to expand your existing conservation efforts! Complete workshop descriptions and presenter bios can be found on the following pages. Afternoon Workshop Sessions 1:10-1:55 Workshop Session 1

- Speak Up, Speak Out, Make a Difference! - How to Lead a Water Monitoring Event – Citizen Science In Action - Spreading the Word about Ocean Conservation Through Film - The Selfless Shellfish and You. Helping to save the World…One Oyster at a

Time! - Youth Activism and Art - Leadership Gone Wild: How to Take Risks and Embrace Change

2:00-2:45 Workshop Session 2 (Session 1 workshops repeat in Session 2)

2:50-3:35 Workshop Session 3

- Building Connections and Raising Funds - Addressing Ocean Acidification: Saving our Country and our Planet - Public Science Events - Using Imagery and Media to Promote Ocean Conservation - Stow It-Don’t Throw It: A Solution to Pollution - “Rays” Awareness: Become a ray biologist for a day and help promote

conservation! 3:40-4:25 Workshop Session 4 (Session 3 workshops repeat in Session 4)

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit

Afternoon Workshops:

Speak Up, Speak Out, Make a Difference! (Offered sessions 1 and 2) Learn the skills it takes to propose your project and express your passion for conservation not only locally but globally. This interactive workshop is dedicated to breaking you out of your shell and understanding the power of presentation. We will touch on the power of body language and being able to read your audience in order to achieve your goals" About the Presenter: Born and raised in Florida, Ben Duval’s love for the outdoors has lead him to be a novice marine science “geek” and Florida history enthusiast. His education has led him all over the United States and across the pond. With a degree in Theatrical Directing from Texas State University, he has studied in Ithaca NY, London, and all over Central Texas. Ben brings a proficiency in Public Speaking and performance as well as talent and event management and directing. In the Theme Park Entertainment industry he has worked with a wide range of skillsets and backgrounds. Ben has brought out the best in individuals from Professional Performers to Educators and even Elementary school students and allowed them to share their passions and knowledge with their audiences. Ben is enthusiastic about not only the environment but sustainability and conservation. An avid fisherman, he is always reminded that “a bad day on the water is always better than a good day in the office.”

“We believe that as kids we’re the next voters, we’re the next decision makers, and the next generation that’s going to be making a difference on our planet.”

- Bindi Irwin,

2012 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit video message

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit

How to Lead a Water Monitoring Event – Citizen Science In Action (Offered sessions 1 and 2) Because water covers about 70 percent of the Earth’s surface, it may appear that we have an abundant supply. It is important to realize, however, that 97 percent of the supply is salt water, and two percent is fresh water frozen in glaciers. That leaves only one percent as a readily useable resource to support drinking, cooking, bathing, agriculture, industry, recreation, and other needs. The limited supply of fresh water, and our dependency on it, means that we must use this resource wisely. Every human being plays an important role in caring for water. Throughout each of the world’s watersheds, people are the consumers of and the advocates for water resources. It is our responsibility to respectfully manage them. Government efforts alone cannot provide the range and variety of information needed to assess water quality in each watershed. Therefore, it is essential that citizens become involved in protecting the health of their local waterbodies. Citizens who are willing to build upon governmental efforts play an important role in helping to protect local watersheds. Join EarthEcho as we provide training and technical assistance for youth to join citizen scientists across the world as part of the World Water Monitoring Challenge™ (WWMC). EarthEcho’s WWMC is an international education and outreach program that builds public awareness and involvement in protecting water resources around the world by engaging citizens to conduct basic monitoring of their local waterways. Participants who complete the workshop will leave with a ready-to-use water quality test kit and be prepared to:

- test and report on a body of water in their own community; - access and utilize free water-focused environmental education content and rich

digital media provided for classrooms - formulate an effective message to reach out into their community and host a

water monitoring event - join a social movement to protect water resources; - take action around water issues across the world.

About the Presenter: With twelve years of experience in science education, marine science, citizen science programs, STEM service learning, and environmental outreach for youth, Stacey Rafalowski has invested a career in improving the way learning happens for young

environmentalists. She is a scientist, an educator, an interpreter, and an environmental advocate dedicated to engaging and supporting youth to raise their voices about the most pressing challenges facing our world. As the Education Director for EarthEcho International, she supports a variety of programs that put youth at the center of environmental action. Prior to working with Philippe Cousteau and the team at EarthEcho, she worked across the U.S. with teachers and students to integrate

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit About Stacey Rafalowski continued:

environmental service learning programs into classroom curriculum that empowered youth to create positive change in their communities.

Stacey has enjoyed a myriad of opportunities ranging from field studies on sea cucumbers in Panama to working alongside teachers from Title 1 schools to, most recently, tackling field production of the short form educational videos produced as part of the EarthEcho Expeditions program. Under her leadership EarthEcho’s education programs have expanded to include the World Water Monitoring Challenge, Water Planet Challenge, and the EarthEcho Expeditions programs as well as integrated educator and youth councils that are active in developing collaborative programs with EarthEcho International. She has served in a variety of volunteer

roles including the S.C. State Service Plan Steering Committee, Carolina Green Fair Event Board, and the Lowcountry Science Symposium Board. Stacey’s great joy is her continued exploration of the waterways in her own backyard of Charleston, S.C. with her daughter and husband.

"You are the hope of today, not tomorrow. You are not a 'future' leader, you are a leader now. We cannot afford to wait for you to grow up before you start changing the world.”

- Steve Culbertson, President and CEO, Youth Service America 2014 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit Keynote

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit Spreading the word about ocean conservation through film: a hands-on workshop about how marine-science filmmaking can be simple, inexpensive, and fun! (Offered sessions 1 and 2) Workshop organizers: Philip Gravinese and Lauren Toth, co-founders and directors of Youth Making Ripples (youthmakingripples@gmail.com) The Beneath the Waves Youth Making Ripples program is encourages you to spread the word about ocean conservation, through filmmaking. Youth Making Ripples is a film festival and competition that challenges middle and high school students to create short films to engage the public about the importance of ocean conservation. Each year, the Youth Making Ripples Film Festival receives marine-themed films from hundreds of young ocean enthusiasts from around the world who are eager to make a difference in educating the public about why we need to take action and protect our important marine resources. This workshop will focus on three topics to help you create videos that will engage, motivate, and inspire audiences, while working on a limited budget. First, an expert team of marine scientists, educators, and professional film-makers will provide key technical tips for video production that will assist you in better planning, producing, and creating your ocean conservation films. During this part of the workshop presenters will demonstrate how to utilize widely available tools like iPhones, point-and-shoot cameras, and free filmmaking software to make inexpensive, but effective films. Workshop presenters will offer expert tips on the various aspects of filmmaking including topics such as storyboarding, camera work, photography, recording, editing, and video distribution. They will then demonstrate how to turn conservation messages into short engaging stories by highlighting key points, and show you how to generate hooks that will gain the attention of your audience. Second, they will discuss current “hot topics” in marine conservation, and brainstorm some effective ways to address these “hot topics” through film. Finally, they’ll showcase creative examples from the Youth Making Ripples archive to demonstrate how you can create ocean-themed footage even if you don’t have access to the ocean, by utilizing items available in most schools and homes. The workshop will culminate with students creating a storyboard for a short film pertaining to an ocean conservation message relevant to their interests and ocean conservation goals.

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit About the Presenters: Carly Randall Carly is a doctoral candidate at the Florida Institute of Technology, where she is currently studying coral-disease ecology and researching how climate change may affect coral diseases in the future. Her marine biology career began as an undergraduate research assistant in the coral ecology lab at the University of North Carolina Wilmington where she earned her bachelors and masters degrees of marine science. She took a break from academia to work with the Environmental Protection Agency’s Coral Reef Task in Pensacola Florida where she continued studying how humans affect coral reefs. Her interest in research and coral ecology compelled her to return to school where she is working on her doctorate. In addition to her research, she has been working with Youth Making Ripples since its inception in 2013. This program is an opportunity for K-12 students to use their creative talents and serve as a voice for our oceans. Carly is also an amateur photographer who enjoys taking photos above and below the water, and sharing her passion and hobby with students. Justin Speaks:

Justin is currently a teacher at the Environmental Studies Center (ESC) in Jensen Beach, Florida. He educates students from kindergarten through 12th grade in Marin County, Florida, exposing them to the Indian River Lagoon system and other coastal ecosystems. Prior to teaching with the ESC, Justin was the education program coordinator with MarineQuest at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, where he taught hands-on marine science lessons to students of all ages in the state of NC. Justin also received his bachelors degree in marine science from UNC Wilmington and then went on to complete a masters degree in biology from the University of West Florida. Justin has also been a volunteer with Youth Making Ripples, since its inception, helping to promote awareness about marine sciences issues through films made by students.

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit About the Presenters Continued: Tom Fitz: Tom Fitz is a twice Emmy Award winning freelance cameraman whose work has been broadcast by PBS, BBC, National Geographic, Discovery, ABC, NHK, Tokyo Broadcasting, and others. His programs have also been displayed in museums and other non-broadcast venues. Tom has over 20 years of experience in natural history camerawork and his projects have taken him all over the world. Tom also co-founded and is Executive Director of Schoolyard Films, Inc., a non-profit devoted to educating K-12 students about the natural world and the challenges it faces. The films made by Schoolyard Inc. are available for use by educators free of charge.

Glenn Allen: Glenn Allen is the former Director of the Undersea Technology Department of Brooks Institute of Photography in Santa Barbara, California. He is an educator, consultant and multimedia producer focusing on marine photography and the environment. Glenn has worked on everything from Sesame Street to the BBC’s, “Blue Planet” Series. He is also part of Schoolyard Film’s production team!

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit

The Selfless Shellfish and You. Helping to save the World…One Oyster at a Time! (Offered sessions 1 and 2) Join us for a fun hands-on conservation project where you can help save the world in just forty-five minutes! Oysters are fantastic eco system engineers that are constantly at work filtering brackish water, providing habitat to countless species, preventing erosion and so much more. These selfless shellfish just need a home! During this session you will be introduced to this keystone species and get to help create a habitat which will be the basis for a new oyster reef. About the Presenter: Jody Palmer, Brevard Zoo’s Assistant Director of Conservation has worked for Brevard Zoo since August 2005. The Zoo’s mission statement is “Wildlife Conservation through Education and Participation” and is a leader in the field with projects such as Florida Scrub Jay translocation, Perdido Key Beach breeding, Adopt-a-Mangrove with FDEP, Butterfly Monitoring, Diamondback Terrapin Research and Oyster restoration through oyster mats and Brevard County oyster gardening. Ms. Palmer has led the community outreach and education roles for the oyster mat project in conjunction with University of Central Florida since 2011. With approximately 400,000 visitors annually, the Zoo provides an ideal venue for outreach to a diversity of visitors who may not otherwise learn about, or be involved, with these projects. In 2013, Field and Stream Magazine named Ms. Palmer a Conservationist of the Year candidate and Disney Conservation Fund named the Oyster Restoration Team including Jody Palmer, Dr. Linda Walters and Dr. Paul Sacks as Heroes of Conservation. She is a proud member of the Emerging Wildlife Conservation Leaders program, Class 6. During short breaks from ‘Saving the World,’ Ms. Palmer enjoys SCUBA diving, triathlons and section hiking the Appalachian Trail.

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit

Youth Activism and Art (Offered sessions 1 and 2)

What can you do for the Big Blue? This is a question that we - the Youth Executive Board members of Big Blue & You often ask ourselves. We use different art forms to grab people’s attention to raise awareness about what the future has in store for the ocean if we don’t change its present state. In this session we are going to ask some tough questions and demonstrate how your own personal social media page can be turned into a platform for marine conservation and youth activism. Through video presentations we will demonstrate how one person’s actions can create a ripple effect in the people around them. We are photographers, artists, public speakers, bloggers, but most importantly we use our powerful voice to give people around us an insight on how our generation feels about upcycling, conservation and activism. Through this session we will teach participants how to speak up and use art, as well as other media forms, to take action to protect our blue planet. As our Co-Founder Danni Washington always says, “The best way to learn about the ocean is to get in the ocean.” We take this saying to heart and we will share how this saying has impacted all of us and how it can change the way the participants look at the ocean. We will also be sharing our own artwork and create some art pieces with participants that will capture the message of what it means to be ocean minded. About the Presenters:

The Big Blue & You is a 501(c)(3) non-profit dedicated to inspiring and educating youth about marine conservation through arts and media. The Big Blue & You was Co-Founded in 2008 by a mother and daughter duo – Michelle Swaby-Smith and Danni Washington. Danni Washington is a graduate of the University of Miami with a B.Sc. degree in Marine Science/Biology. She is an experienced on-camera personality with Untamed Science, and most recently, Ocean GEMS, a multimedia series and outreach program connecting teen girls to female marine scientists. Since 2008 Big Blue & You has

educated hundreds of children in the local community through the annual ArtSea event which exposes youth to aquatic wildlife, water sports, artists from the local area, and live music. At the beginning of this year two outstanding and passionate ocean and art lovers working with the organization took charge of the Youth Executive Board, with the guidance of their mentor Danni Washington. Lexi Raiford and Laura Johnson work very closely in order to create the ultimate experience for the members working on the Youth Executive Board. Over the past few months the Youth Executive Board has gotten the attention of many young people who want to know what they can do to spread the message about marine conservation. The Youth Executive Board members use their artistic talents, their voices, their personal social media accounts, and the platform of the Big Blue & You website to raise awareness about ocean conservation, and the dangers that face many marine ecosystems in different parts of the world.

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit Leadership Gone Wild: How to Take Risks and Embrace Change (Offered sessions 1 and 2 – Recommended for students in 10th grade or older) Are you ready for the next challenge but you're not sure which steps to take? Ever made an assumption about someone's personality, attitude or role only to find out you were completely wrong? Do you ever feel, as a leader, that you're overwhelmed by change and have totally gone wild?? Get ready to 're-wild' your leadership skills. Feel the grass under your feet, soak up the fresh air, and dive headfirst into a new era of leadership. Get to the core of your leadership strengths and weaknesses, learn to leverage new opportunities, and find your F.O.C.U.S. Comfort zone? Not anymore. Life begins outside your comfort zone, so it's time to feel safe enough to take risks, challenge assumptions, be present in the moment and take big steps forward. Ready?

About the Presenter: Julie Henry is a Speaker, Facilitator, and Coach specializing in leadership development, strategy, and change management. She is passionate about supporting people and organizations who feel like they've 'hit the wall' and now face constant change and burnout. Julie is an award-winning entrepreneur and former senior leader of Fortune 500 and Nonprofit organizations including Mote Marine Laboratory. She has 20+ years of experience developing leaders in the U.S., New Zealand and Australia and her recent clients include Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, Maryland Sea Grant, The Florida Aquarium, and the Natural Start Alliance. Julie holds a Master's Degree in Communication from the University of South Florida and is a graduate of the Sustainable Business Leadership Executive Program at Green Mountain College in Vermont. She earned a Postgraduate Diploma from the University of Otago in New Zealand as a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar and is a proud Redhawk from Miami University of Ohio. Her journey began as a child in Chicago where she spent as much time as possible exploring the outdoors. Today, Julie lives in Sarasota, Florida with her husband and two small children, and can be found running, sailing, practicing yoga, or still exploring outside any day of the week.

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit Building Connections and Raising Funds (Offered sessions 3 and 4)

Do you have a great idea and need financial support to accomplish it? Ever wonder to yourself, “Where do I begin the process to ask an individual, corporation or foundation for support?” Today, together we will walk through some "tricks of the trade" on how to 1) Identify and Research Prospective Funders, 2) Build Connections and Develop a Case Statement and 3) Identify Elements of a Strong Proposal. About the Presenter: E. Howard Rutherford returned to the University of South Florida College of Marine Science (USF-CMS) as Director of Development after a 13 year tenure as President/CEO with The Pier Aquarium d/b/a Secrets of the Sea Marine Exploration Center and Aquarium. Before his tenure at the aquarium, Howard was a research associate in the nutrient chemistry laboratory at USF-CMS where he participated in research projects from the Bering Sea to the Arabian Sea to the Southern Ocean. He has witnessed first hand the value and fragility of the marine environment, fueling his passion to share these discoveries with the public. His influence extends beyond Tampa Bay as a leader in ocean science education reform. Currently, Mr. Rutherford is immediate Past-President to the National Marine Educators Association, a national organization powered by 17 individual, regional chapters who provide the on-the-ground efforts that support and promote national initiatives in education and conservation such as ocean literacy. He has actively participated on the City of St. Petersburg’s Ocean Team, of which the College of Marine Science plays a major role. As founding Co-Chair, Howard helped to establish the St. Petersburg Science Festival. This Festival is one of four national festivals awarded a grant from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation to build capacity and mentor three new science festivals. Howard is also Co-PI on Creating a Community of Practice Around a Proven Teen Science Cafe Model, a $2.6 million project funded by the National Science Foundation. This project is building the first network of ocean science thematic Florida Teen SciCafes in partnership with The Florida Aquarium and Mote Marine Laboratory. Howard holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Chemistry from Eckerd College, St. Petersburg, FL and attended graduate school at USF-CMS.

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit Addressing Ocean Acidification: Saving our Country and our Planet (Offered sessions 3 and 4)

Do you have a passion to protect our oceans, but realize that the biggest threat they face – climate change – can’t be stopped just by recycling? Come to this workshop to learn about the role of youth in three essential considerations of society: climate change, marine conservation, and our democracy – by working with a single issue: ocean acidification. Ocean acidification is the process by which atmospheric CO2 is absorbed by the oceans, actually changing their chemistry and the ability of marine organisms to survive. OA is a relatively new aspect of ocean health, but is arguably the most crucial, as it will cause widespread and irreversible changes to all marine ecosystems. Many of the policy mechanisms that would help combat OA are the same tools that are being used to promote climate change solutions. Participants in this workshop will come to understand what it can mean to “think globally, and act locally” when it comes to OA, and engage with their communities and government representatives about how to protect our oceans and our planet. About the presenter

Shana Gallagher is a junior at Tufts University in Boston. Though Tufts is not known for its marine biology opportunities, she was able to have many early marine experiences abroad, becoming scuba-diving certified in The Philippines at age 10. This early certification allowed her to explore and expand her motivation to protect our oceans – at age fifteen, she was volunteering for eight hours every week at the Marine Mammal Center in California. Shana attended high school at Atlantic College, a United World College in the UK. With only 300 students, but over 80 nationalities represented, this experience shows students how much more connects us than divides us

across the globe, regardless of our geographical or ideological backgrounds. For Shana, this meant recognizing the threat that climate change poses to us all. Ever since, Shana has focused mostly on general climate change solutions, including running her schools’ fossil fuel divestment movement, participating in on and off-campus sustainability initiatives, and working for grassroots organizations such as an anti-fracking campaign with Fund for the Public Interest. She has also maintained her focus on marine conservation, and is a founding member of the World Cetacean Alliance, an interdisciplinary stakeholder organization committed to the protection of whales, dolphins and porpoises.

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit About Shana Gallagher Continued:

Shana has conducted extensive marine research within her undergraduate career, including examining coral reef resilience and marine protected area design in The Philippines, as well as investigating the vast Wasting Disease affecting sea star species along the US West Coast. She is also a recipient of NOAA’s Hollings Scholarship, a program designed to foster marine and environmental understanding and stewardship. This past summer, she held a position at The Ocean Conservancy, a marine policy advocacy group based in Washington, D.C. As a member of the Ocean Acidification Team, Shana explored how science and policy can overlap to drive conservation in our communities, and is here representing the organization. Ultimately, Shana is committed to spreading respect and reverence for the oceans, and an understanding that healthy oceans are essential to human survival.

Public Science Events (Offered sessions 3 and 4) Public Science Events are powerful outreach tools for generating awareness for your conservation issue. Events like Science Cafes, Lightning Talks, and Science Festivals are fun, energetic, and accessible. Learn more about the variety of formats and styles, critical secrets for planning, and where to find resources to help you organize and fund a successful Public Science Event. Create a buzz and have a ton of fun. About the Presenter: Jim Wharton (about.me/jimwharton, @jimwharton) is the Director of Conservation and Education at the Seattle Aquarium, working to inspire conservation of our marine environment by revealing the connections between the ocean and our everyday lives. His career includes work at the Oregon Coast Aquarium, Smithsonian Marine Station, and Mote Marine Laboratory. He originated the Mote Science Café and organized Mote’s Special Lecture Series. Jim has presented on, participated in, and planned Lightning Talks and other public science events at the Seattle Aquarium and during professional conferences like the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the National Marine Educators Association (NMEA).

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit Using Imagery and Media to Promote Ocean Conservation (Offered sessions 3 and 4) Through this workshop, Jim Abernethy will use his passion as an ocean conservationist, and experience as a world-renowned photographer/filmmaker, to inspire and teach participants strategies for using imagery and media to share stories of ocean conservation. Jim will share creative photos and videos, as well as campaigns designed to use media to ignite public support for the conservation of marine wildlife on a global scale. Participants will leave with ideas and examples for incorporating the use of visual media into their ocean conservation project plans.

About the Presenter:

Jim Abernethy is an award-winning underwater

photographer, filmmaker, author, and conservationist who pioneered shark encounters without a cage. Starting at a young age, scuba diving served as an inspiration for his life’s mission as a conservationist. For decades, he has been running photography/videography expeditions to engage with the world’s largest predatory sharks – Abernethy hosts cage-free dive expeditions (day/night) with tiger, great hammerheads, oceanic white tips, bull, and lemon sharks - he is best known as an extremely passionate crusader for their protection and has received numerous awards for his lifelong dedication as a marine life conservationist. His award-winning marine life images are often featured in the world’s top nature

magazines. Additionally, Abernethy’s expedition clients include many of the world’s top nature filmmakers and magazines such as Imax, National Geographic, BBC Wildlife, Animal Planet, and Discovery Channel. The “Marine Life Art Gallery” in West Palm Beach, Florida, is where his captivating images and educational books are on display and available for purchase. Jim’s relentless efforts around conservation have resulted in the creation of two non-profits: Wildlife Voice and Operation Blue Voice. The mission of Operation Blue Pride is to save both veterans and our ocean’s creatures through in-water activities, wildlife encounters, education, and collaboration. This is all done in an effort to inspire action around these important issues. Wildlife Voice seeks to engage and educate our youth, as well as physically challenged people, (Project Seahorse & Rising Tide – Shark Pride) by introducing them to our oceans and inspiring them to become “ocean ambassadors.” Jim mostly lives at sea, in the Bahamas, running shark expeditions and wild dolphin encounters year round on his boat, "Shear Water," but is often booked for educational presentations when he’s spending time on land. His dive business, Jim Abernethy’s Scuba Adventures Inc., is based in West Palm Beach, FL.

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit “Rays” Awareness: Become a ray biologist for a day and help promote conservation! (Offered sessions 3 and 4) Join Mote Senior Biologist, Kim Bassos-Hull, for a hands-on workshop learning how researchers study ray species in local Florida waters with a focus on spotted eagle rays and devil rays. Students will have the opportunity to learn techniques of handling, measuring, sampling, tagging and photographing rays and then see it demonstrated on live rays. Students will also learn how this study is helping answer crucial conservation questions about these rays in the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean. This workshop is for all those want-to-be biologists out there! About the Presenter: Kim Bassos-Hull, M.S. is a Senior Biologist at Mote Marine Laboratory working in the Dolphin Research Program, Center for Shark Research and Education Division. Kim grew up in Connecticut and was always fascinated by sea life so she headed west to attend the University of California at Santa Cruz – majoring in Biology and Marine Science for both her B.S. and M.S degrees. Her master’s thesis work brought her to Florida in 1990 to study dolphins in Southwest Florida under the direction of Dr. Randy Wells, director of the Sarasota Dolphin Research Program which has the world's longest running study of dolphins in the world. Kim has extensive experience studying marine animal behavior and ecology along Florida's Gulf coast, especially in regards to photo-identification and population estimation. Kim has been active with Mote's Education Division mentoring high school students with research projects and community outreach since 2007 and has been a Co-PI with Mote's Spotted Eagle Ray Conservation Program since 2009.

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit Stow It-Don’t Throw It: A Solution to Pollution (Offered sessions 3 and 4) Looking for a solution to a dangerous type of marine pollution? Through this workshop you’ll learn about the impacts of improperly disposed fishing line to marine wildlife and be given the opportunity to assemble a personal-sized fishing line recycling bin. You’ll also have the chance to learn how to become involved in the Stow It-Don’t Don’t Throw It Project and ways you can engage your school and community in a fishing line recycling campaign. Finally, you’ll be given access to educational resources to raise awareness about marine debris prevention in your community.

About the Presenter: Bella Genta is a sophomore at the University of North Florida, majoring in Coastal Biology. Bella has served as the social media and outreach coordinator for the "Stow It Don't Throw It" Project since attending her first Youth Ocean Conservation Summit in 2012. Bella is also a former intern in Mote Marine Laboratory’s High School Intern Program and Seahorse Conservation Lab. Bella hopes of one day becoming a part of the research aspect of marine biology; until then, she really enjoys writing about herself in the third person.

4:30-4:40 Call to Action Message

4:40-5:00 Closing Remarks/Youth Ocean Conservation Team/Evaluations 5:30 – Teen Science Café (Optional Event – RSVP on Summit Registration Form)

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Film Competition Are you an aspiring filmmaker? Is there an ocean conservation issue you want to share with others? All students in grades preschool- college are invited to take part in the 2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Film Competition! This competition provides you with the chance to highlight an ocean conservation issue that’s relevant in your home town, create a short video to raise awareness about a conservation project, or film a public service announcement encouraging people to protect our planet’s ocean. The possibilities are endless – just use your creativity! Winning films will be screened as part of the 2015 Community Ocean Conservation Film Festival, which will be held on November 13 at Mote Marine Laboratory in Sarasota, FL. Winners will also receive exciting prizes! Visit www.yocs.org to download the contest rules and video submission instructions! Deadline for video submissions is October 16, 2015. Good luck!

Join us for the Community Ocean Conservation Film Festival! Friday, November 13th – Mote Marine Laboratory

Join special guest, renowned marine conservation advocate Wendy Benchley, young ocean conservation leaders, and members of your

community to celebrate the 5th anniversary of the Youth Ocean Conservation Summit program at the 2015 Community Ocean Conservation Film Festival. This special evening will feature a screening of the award-winning film Shark Girl. Shark Girl shares the inspiring story of twenty-one year old Madison Stewart who has made it her life mission to protect sharks and their ocean home. The film goes inside Madison’s underwater world, following her journey from Australia to Mexico, Palau and the Bahamas, where her extraordinary relationship with these wild animals unfolds. Madison reveals how sharks are vital to the health of our oceans. If they are endangered, so is the entire underwater ecosystem. Her journey is a powerful wake-up call and a moving record of one determined young woman devoted to protect the animal and underwater ecosystem she loves so much. Come be inspired by the work of young conservation leaders through a showcase of student driven ocean conservation projects and films and meet young people making a difference to protect our blue planet! The event will also feature a silent auction/raffle fundraiser with marine themed artwork and other items. Proceeds will support the Youth Ocean Conservation Summit program. Admission to this event is free, however due to limited seating an RSVP is required at www.yocs.org. The event will take place in Mote Marine Laboratory’s WAVE Center. Doors open at 6:30pm for our silent auction and showcase of student conservation projects.

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit

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Sarasota Bay Exploration! Sunday, November 15th – Ken Thompson Park

9:30am-11:30am Join your fellow Youth Ocean Conservation Summit participants to explore Sarasota Bay by kayak and paddleboard and by taking part in a hands on seining and dip netting field excursion to learn more about the marine wildlife that inhabit this ecosystem. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to wrap up your weekend in Sarasota, make new friends, and experience Sarasota Bay! Participation in this event is free to Youth Ocean Conservation Summit participants who select the option to participate when they complete the Summit registration form found at www.yocs.org.

Florida Teen Science Cafe Saturday, November 15th – 5:30pm, Keating Marine Education Center – Mote Marine Laboratory

Join your fellow teens after the Youth Ocean Conservation Summit for a conversation with scientists! FL Teen Science Cafe presents "Trash Talk," an evening with a scientist, a strandings investigator, a biologist and a conservationist. Discussion will focus on human impacts on marine life and what you can do to help. FL Teen Science Cafes are free, informal events for teens focusing on marine science. Each meeting welcomes a local scientist to share their work with students. This Teen Science Cafe is sponsored by Mote Marine Laboratory's High School Intern Program. Featured Speakers include: Kim Bassos-Hull, Senior Scientist, Mote Marine Laboratory Gretchen Lovewell, Stranding Investigations Program Manager, Mote Marine Laboratory Light dinner will be provided to participants. The event is free but participants must pre-register when completing the Summit registration form at www.yocs.org.

Location and Directions

The 2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit will be held at Mote Marine Laboratory. Mote Marine Laboratory is located at 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL 34236. Below are directions to Mote from a variety of Florida cities. The event will kick-off and conclude in Mote’s WAVE Center located on the left side of the main entrance to Mote Aquarium.

FROM BRADENTON: Take US-301 south to

Fruitville Rd. Turn right on Fruitville Rd. and go approximately 2 miles until it dead ends at US-41 (North Tamiami Trail). Turn left onto US-41 and turn right at the next traffic light, Gulfstream Avenue. See FROM GULFSTREAM AVENUE. ***OR*** Take US-41 south (North Tamiami Trail) following the signs to Sarasota. While on US-41, PASS Sarasota-Bradenton airport, Ringling School of Art and Design, and Fruitville Rd. At the next light, Gulfstream Avenue, (past Fruitville Rd.) turn right. See FROM GULFSTREAM AVENUE. FROM FORT MYERS/NAPLES: Take I-75 north

to Exit 210 (Fruitville Road). Take Fruitville Rd. west approximately 6.5 miles until it dead ends at US-41 (North Tamiami Trail). Turn left onto US-41 and turn right at the next traffic light, Gulfstream Avenue. See FROM GULFSTREAM AVENUE.

FROM ST. PETERSBURG/CLEARWATER:

Take I-275 south over the Sunshine Skyway Bridge to I-75 south to Exit 210 (Fruitville Road). Take Fruitville Rd. west approximately 6.5 miles until it dead ends at US-41 (North Tamiami Trail). Turn left onto US-41 and turn right at the next traffic light, Gulfstream Avenue. See FROM GULFSTREAM AVENUE.

FROM TAMPA: Take I-75 south to Exit 210 (Fruitville Road). Take Fruitville Rd. west approximately 6.5 miles until it dead ends at US-41 (North Tamiami Trail). Turn left onto US-41 and turn right at the next traffic light, Gulfstream Avenue. See FROM GULFSTREAM AVENUE. FROM VENICE: Take US-41 (South Tamiami

Trail) north (to the Sarasota bayfront) and turn left onto Gulfstream Ave. See FROM GULFSTREAM AVENUE. FROM GULFSTREAM AVENUE

Continue over the Ringling Causeway Bridge to St. Armand's Circle (approximately 2 miles). Enter St. Armand's Circle, making your first right onto Boulevard of the Presidents North following the signs to Longboat Key and Mote Aquarium. Approximately one mile from St. Armand's Circle, just before the drawbridge to Longboat Key, turn right onto Ken Thompson Parkway.

2015 Youth Ocean Conservation Summit Overnight Accommodation Options

LaQuinta Inn & Suites – Sarasota

1803 North Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34234

Phone: 1-941-366-5128 Special rate of $99.00 + tax per night for standard rooms with 2 double beds or 1 king bed if you make a reservation by October 23, 2015! Up to four people per room. 2 night minimum. Special rate applies for the nights of Friday, November 13 and Saturday, November 14. Be sure to call-in your reservation and ask for the special “YOCS Group Rate”.

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Groups of youth and adults traveling from out of town may also consider learning more about local ecosystems in the area by camping at one of the following state parks. For campground information/reservations visit: www.floridastateparks.org

Oscar Scherer St. Park

1843 S. Tamiami Trail Osprey, Florida 34229

(941)-483-5956

Myakka River St. Park 13208 State Road 72 Sarasota, Florida

(941)-362-6511