WABASSO ISLAND — The Nature Nook Gift Shop at the Environmental Learning Center (ELC) is now open for the season with brand new merchandise.
A sampling of new items includes: colorful scarves made from Indian Saris, pearls from Asia, unique jewelry, weather stations, toys and crafts for children, kites, dress-up wings for girls, marble animals, unusual kinds of puppets, and best-selling books for all ages.
“We spend considerable time and effort each summer reviewing and buying new and interesting merchandise for the Nature Nook Gift Shop at the ELC,” says Pat Fava, who is a volunteer co-manager of the shop with Anita Richards and Debi Donlin.
“After our September sale, items not sold are put on sale for 20% to 40% off. We give our customers an opportunity to buy entirely new and unique items every year in November. Our special merchandise includes thoughtful and interesting gifts and books that also reflect the ELC overall mission. Most of the items are either organic, natural, or made from recycled, reclaimed, or renewable material,” Fava added.
Items in the shop are suitable as hostess gifts, as well as birthday and holiday presents. Many customers buy something for themselves, a spouse, or their children or grandchildren because they can’t find it elsewhere.
Most of the toys are made in the U.S.A. There are special “member only” events with “special deals” held during the year. Net income from the shop helps fund ELC’s education programs.
The Nature Nook Gift Shop is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m.; Saturdays from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.; and Sundays from 1-4 p.m.
The Environmental Learning Center is located north of Vero Beach off County Road 510 at the western end of the Wabasso Bridge. Its campus includes exhibit areas, native plant gardens, picnic facilities, gift shop, and visitor center.
ELC membership benefits, a list of its many field excursions, EcoVentures, including nature walks, canoe excursions, and boating adventures, can be found at www.DiscoverELC.org.
Admission is $5 per person; children 12 and under are free.
ELC members receive free admission year-round.
The first Saturday of every month is free to all.
