For Hometown News
HOBE SOUND -- Aryiah Deckard celebrated her eighth birthday by demonstrating environmental stewardship through a generous donation to the Florida Oceanographic Society.
Aryiah spent her birthday at the Coastal Center on Hutchinson Island, where she and her guests enjoyed feeding stingrays, taking trail tours and using the interactive touch tanks.
Party guests were encouraged by Aryiah to make donations in lieu of gifts, which totaled more than $100 for the center.
"Aryiah has demonstrated true generosity and selflessness by giving up her birthday gifts to help support our center's mission," said Karen Rodgers, director of development at Florida Oceanographic Society.
"We hope that this young girl will inspire others of her age to care for and preserve our environment."
For information on celebrating a birthday at the Florida Oceanographic Center, call (772) 225-0505, Ext.116.