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  • Mission 2010 / SFTJ / Magruder Memories   August 30, 2010

    Open hearts; open doors:
    As the face of United Methodism turns toward the twenty-first century, many are taking our open hearts and minds, out of those open doors for mission in the community.  The upcoming event, Mission 2010, presents an interactive day at Alton L Collins Retreat Center on Saturday, September 18th, for just $20 per person.  The emphasis will be on ideas and resources to help congregations become externally focused. The keynote speaker is Dr. Dana Robert who will also present a Friday evening lecture at Portland First United Methodist Church (free), and preach at the Sunday morning worship service at Portland First on September 19th.  Click here to read the Mission 2010 Brochure.

    Strength for the Journey

    Hooray and THANK YOU!  We’ve met the SFTJ challenge: the $5,000 has been doubled to $10,000!  Thanks to all of you who so lovingly and generously gave.  This year’s event was Aug 22-25 and was an overwhelming success.  We feel blessed to have received so many personal joys and thanksgivings from participants.  Thank you, again!

    “Magruder Memories” project

    Gloria Mensah is looking for stories to share and preserve in a “Magruder Memories” book and would like to receive any Magruder stories by October 31st (but sooner is better)  about how camp experiences have impacted & changed our lives.  Please share your stories and include photos if you have them.  These writings and photos will last forever and be shared by many if we preserve them now.  Please send your memories to:

    “Mom” Gloria Mensah

    6911 Wilson Lane

    Bethesda, MD 20817 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

    Thanks!

            —Gloria Mensah

     

  • Whales / Thinking Ahead / 2011 Plans   August 9, 2010

    Whale Watching Trip:
    Dates: September 17 - September 19, 2010
    Portland’s First United Methodist Church is hosting a San Juan Islands Whale Watching Cruise on board the 110 ft Island Mariner: Learn about and watch the antics of killer whales, gray whales, porpoises, seals and sea lions cruising the waterways in the San Juan Islands, off the shores of Bellingham, Washington. Cost: approximately $415.00 to $515.00 including train fare, cruise fare, overnight stays [2 nights] and connecting cab fares.  Register with a $100.00 per person deposit with Christine Bostick, Portland First UMC 503-228-3195 x 222.  The trip leaves from Portland’s Union Station.

    Thinking ahead:
    As you are out buying school supplies for the upcoming year, remember there are still late summer / fall camps coming up so you can get energized for the year ahead.  Visit gocamping.org and click on calendar to see what’s coming up!

    But it’s only August, you say:
    We thought it would be fun for you to get a glimpse of what we’re up to in the Camp & Retreat offices. Program Division has picked our 2011 curriculum:  Be a Hero:  Living like Jesus.  The Director of each site is in the process of deciding the events that will be held at his or her site in 2011 and penciling them onto a calendar of events.  They will get together in a few weeks to double check for overlaps and gaps, solidify the 2011 events calendar! Then it’s time to recruit deans & counselors, get the curriculum out to everybody, and hold training sessions.  If you have a great idea for a 2011 event at your favorite site, let that Director know.  Now’s the time!

  • August Family Camp / Kickin’ Back / Visitors   Aug 2, 2010

    Family event coming up at SL

    New this year:  an August Family Camp ( 8/16th - 8/20th ) at Suttle Lake so adults and kids can get away from it all. Get out of the heat and enjoy hiking, swimming, canoeing, inner-tubing, dog-paddling, or lounging with a good book.  Sisters, with its quaint shops and great ice cream, is a short drive away, as is the head of the Metolius River (at Camp Sherman), and a great trail up Black Butte.  Kids need to come with adults, but adults, you can come without kids.  Singles are family too, of course!  Jane and Daniel’s welcome mat is out; come enjoy their hospitality before the big fall stress fest begins!

    While we’re at it…
    If you’d like to get away and relax in Eastern Oregon, take a look at the three Kickin’ Back camps coming up at Wallowa Lake. Do Your Own Thing!  Meals will be provided but the rest of the time is yours to do as you please. Come by yourself, bring a friend, bring the family and enjoy the many activities available in Wallowa County. 
    Kickin’ Back I   Aug 15 - 20
    Kickin’ Back II   Aug 22 – 27      
    Kickin’ Back III   Aug 29 – Sept 3

    Visitors:
    We are lucky enough to have visits from campers from time to time here in the camping office at the Conference Center in Portland, and it is such a pleasure.  Folks are usually shy about coming in, but once here, really open up about how much they love camp – “it’s the best ever,” “I look forward to this all year,” “My friends there are like my family now.”  I can see in their eyes and faces just how much camp means to them.  Supporters of Camp & Retreat Ministries, volunteers, staff, donors, and families—your contributions of money, time, and talents are doing a world of good.  How often do we have the opportunity to bring such joy to people?  I love it!
    —Susan in Camping

  • Finding info / Adventure opportunity / Wikiwiki   July 26, 2010

    Finding camp info:

    Reminder for parents:  Are you wondering when to drop off your campers or pick them up? Wondering what they need to bring to camp? To link to the camp packet, which will give you the info you’re looking for, go to your camper’s event on the gocamping calendar and click it open. The packet link is near the bottom of the page.  Hope that helps!

    Suttle Lake adventures with Japanese students:

    Outer Limits is looking for one adult “Adventurer”, a staff assistant who will be housed in Pioneer Lodge—not in a cabin with campers.  You will be a part of the daily adventures such as hiking, rafting, and caving…helping wherever needed.  The dates are July 31st - August 5th (Saturday – Thursday).  Camp staff arrives at Suttle Lake on Friday, July 30th. You must be at least 25 years old to be an Adventurer for this camp. To apply, contact Beth Dieker.

    Wikiwiki*:

    Hawaiian retreat “Come to the Waters” Feb 6-11, 2011 has only 4 spots left.  Register with a $200 deposit per person on-line at the link above. 

    * Wikiwiki: “to hurry,” “hurry up” in Hawaiian

    From http://www.alternative-hawaii.com/hacul/glosshaw.htm

  • Raft the Salmon River / SFTJ update / Notes from campers / July 12, 2010

    Salmon River Raft trip – there are 3 more places left for the July 18 – 23 Salmon River Raft camp based from Wallowa Lake (actual put-in at White Bird, ID).  You won’t beat the great group pricing through our outfitter in Joseph.  Your choice of paddle raft, duckie, or oar raft to learn more or experience for the first time.  Don’t hesitate!  Call the camp registrar to get signed up: 503-802-9213.

    Strength for the Journey update – 3 more gifts (totaling $900) were received since our last notice – the matching challenge fund is up to $2,665!  We’re striving to match $5,000 to hold this year’s conference-wide ministry with persons living with AIDS.  Camp will be held at Suttle Lake at the end of August.  Quilts remind participants of the warmth of God’s love; the whole camp experience is a breakthrough to new life for campers and staff alike.  If you’ve ever wondered what you can do to support someone living with AIDS, here’s your chance!  Donate today.  The face of AIDS has changed over this decade, but it has not gone away.

    How’s summer going?
    Here are a few notes that have come in from campers so far this season:

    Suttle Lake is beautiful and the quilters are having a marvelous time with deep conversations during program time and lots of creative projects happening the rest of the time.
    —Rev. Karen Nelson

    I loved the whole Wallowa area.  It’s beautiful, and what a change of pace. The Women’s Horse Camp provided marvelous companionship with the Bolens and other campers—lots of saddle time.  The Cooks are gracious hosts, and Miranda cooks a “mean” breakfast.  The yurts are great—and the daily visits by deer, including does with their fawns, added to the charm.  We enjoyed our two extra days tremendously—explored the area (drove to Flora, took the tram to the top of Mount Howard, learned a lot of Nez Perce history, enjoyed July 4 with locals by the lake.)
    —Deborah Maria

    I just wanted to tell you what a fabulous weekend I had at choir camp!!!!  I got to spend four days singing, playing handbells, and having a lot of fun with approximately eighty new friends, at a beautiful campsite by the ocean!!  What more could a person ask for?  I think this is the most incredible program.  It gives everyone the opportunity to get away to nature, and relax for anywhere from a weekend to a week, and do something that they enjoy doing with other people who enjoy the same thing.  I am looking forward to my next camp experience.
    —Eileen Beck

    Want to go to camp, too?  Click on the link to the calendar of upcoming events.  Questions?  Call the camping office at 503-802-9210.

  • Latgawa beckons / Happy Camper / Footnote /  July 7, 2010

    Latgawa beckons:
    Do you belong to a group that is looking for a peaceful place to get away for a day or weekend without all of the distractions of daily life?  How about a family reunion or special birthday weekend for a special member of your clan?  Is your church thinking about a special event for your youth group?  Well, we have good news… There are still great 2010 dates available at Camp Latgawa!

    We often hear from people who make the assumption that Camp Latgawa is completely booked without calling us to check.  We just want to let you know that if you would like to put together an event for 2010 Camp Latgawa may just be that place.  We still have open dates for summer and fall; the perfect time of year for a family reunion or unique getaway.

    Visit our website at http://latgawa.gocamping.org to find out more about our facilities and rates, or better yet, call Greg and Eva at 541-826-9699.  We’d be happy to talk with you about what we have to offer, help you with the details of organizing a retreat or event and we can set up a time to give you a complete tour of Camp Latgawa. 
    —Greg Clensy

    Happy campers
    Wallowa Lake Family camp was a delight. Full camp, lots of smiles, and kids, and great fireworks. I thoroughly enjoyed the time/space. Hospitality was terrific! Lots of new participants returning home and spreading the good news.
    Peace- - -Rev. Bill Gates
    Parkrose United Methodist Church

    iGive footnote:
    Camp & Retreat Ministries supporters who have shopped at the iGive Mall
    have raised $560.51 so far.  Thank you, everybody!
    —Susan Delaney

  • Japanese kids coming to Suttle Lake / Parent Resources / iGive

    16 Japanese Students to Join Outer Limits Camp
    This year we are really excited that 16 Japanese students and 2 teachers will be joining us at Outer Limits at Suttle Lake Camp.  They come from Tohoku Gakuin Jr. & Sr. High School (a Christian school for boys) in Sendai, Japan.  They look forward to experiencing camp, practicing their English and learning more about American culture.  We will also have a unique opportunity to learn about Japanese culture during the week as the students will perform Japanese songs, stories and martial arts.

    Outer Limits is an adventure camp open to middle and high school students.  During the week, campers will enjoy whitewater rafting, caving, hiking, challenge course as well as traditional camp activities such as boating and swimming.  The dates for the event are July 31 through August 5, 2010. Register online here.

    Want to be part of the Japanese camping experience at Suttle Lake?
    We are in need of 1 or 2 female counselors and 3 male counselors for Outer Limits.  There is no cost to volunteering at camp.  You will enjoy delicious meals, wonderful fellowship with a lot of great people, Japanese culture and a lifetime of memories.  You must be at least 21 years old to volunteer as a counselor at Outer Limits.  Please contact
    Beth Dieker if you’re interested in applying.

    Parent & Camper Resources
    On-line Camp Calendar of events
    Forms you might need
    What do I bring to camp with me?
    Articles for parents to read about the benefits of sending children (and yourselves) to camp
    Give a gift certificate to camp
    Camp Policies
    Child protection policy
    Find all these links and more at http://gocamping.org/resources/parent


    Shop the iGive Mall
    A percentage of each purchase at over 750 online stores benefits Camp and Retreat Ministries! Just use our links to reach your favorite stores, and the rest is automatic.
    Cause ID: 16268

  • Collins Volunteers / Green Kudos / SFTJ challenge   June 21, 2010

    Volunteer Days at Collins Retreat Center
    The Collins Retreat Center is sponsoring some volunteer work days during the week of June 27th.  We will be working on projects ranging from roofing to trail repair, general maintenance, cleaning and painting.  Workdays are Monday June 28, Tuesday June 29, Thursday July 1 and Friday July 2.  Please let us know if you can join us for any or all of these days.  Lunch and dinner will be provided.  Contact : Collins Retreat Center or call us at 503.637.6411. 
    —Todd Bartlett

    Strength for the Journey Challenge:
    Help more persons living with AIDS get to Strength for the Journey Camp this summer! 
    Strength for the Journey is the Conference AIDS Ministry, gathering persons living with HIV/AIDS and caring volunteers for 4 wonderful days of spiritual renewal.

    So far, we have funds for 22 of the 60 expected campers to attend this year’s retreat.  Campers also contribute on a sliding scale anywhere from $25 to the full $155 per person.  Anonymous supporters have pledged up to $5,000 in matching funds for this summer so your donation is especially powerful this month!  To date, 12 persons have contributed $1,785! 

    To make your contribution to help end the isolation and demonstrate God’s care for all persons, act now! 
    —Lisa Jean Hoefner

    Green kudos:
    Oregon-Idaho Camp & Retreat Ministries was selected as one of the 100 Best Green Companies in Oregon in 2010, based on “Sustainable Practices” sections in both the employee and employer surveys completed last year by over 26,000 employees from 505 for-profit companies and nonprofit organizations. Participation in the “100 Best” surveys is voluntary and free of charge. We scored 271.53 out of a possible 300 total points, for a rank of #34!  To see the whole list, click the link to the Oregon Business article:
    —Lisa Jean Hoefner

  • Grandparents / Surfing / Camp Packets & Numbers   6-14-10

    Calling all Grandparents:
    Grand Camp I at Camp Magruder is coming up soon (June 18-20.)  This wonderful event for grandparents and their grandchildren (or “grand-types” and “grandchildren-types”) still has openings! 
    Register today; it’s coming up soon!

    Surf’s up:
    Senior High Coast Adventure at Magruder:
    Don’t wait to get your registrations in on this one; it’s a small group.  Each day we’ll concentrate on one activity.  No experience necessary! Equipment and instruction will be provided.
    • Kayaking on the Nehalem River
    • Sailing
    • Surfing
    • Hiking

    Camp packets
    Hooray, it’s summer!  You’ve registered for camp and now you’re wondering when you’ll get more information: your camp packet will arrive in your mailbox approximately 4-6 weeks before your event begins.  You will also be able to find a link to it on the web at the bottom of the camp description, again approximately a month before the event begins.  If you have questions, search the gocamping.org website or call the Camping Office.  Happy camping!

    Note the new phone #s:
    In case you forgot to write these down from an earlier e-news, here they are again:
    Registrar, Geneva:              503-802-9213
    Admin Assistant, Susan         503-802-9212
    Exec Director, Lisa Jean       503-802-9211
            General Camp Ministries line   503-802-9210


    P.S.  Conference staff was celebrating weddings yesterday. Sandra Sittser’s daughter, Anastasia Sittser, and Susan Delaney’s daughter, Caitlin Potter, had weddings on June 13th.  Congratulations and Best Wishes to the newlyweds!

  • Peace Pole / Rain Sticks / Taize     June 7, 2010

    May peace prevail on Earth:
    The Alton L. Collins Peace Path is a work in progress. When this labyrinth/herb garden is completed there will be a Peace Pole at the center and space for twelve “May Peace Prevail on Earth” plaques each in a different language.  We currently have 7 of the 12 plaques, purchased with $25 donations to the Collins Retreat Center Peace Pole fund, and they are in English, Hawaiian, Cree, Irish, Japanese, German, and Nez Perce.  We will add benches for seating at the center of the Peace Path and around the outer edge adding to the number of places for reflection and meditation at the Alton L. Collins Retreat Center.
    —Todd Bartlett

    Rain sticks:
    Camp Magruder is in need of wrapping paper and paper towel tubes to make rain sticks during MADD Camp at the end of June. Please contact Amy Wood, Program Services Director, if you have questions at 503-355-2310 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)  Thanks-
    —Amy Wood

    Experience Taize:
    Have you heard about the Taize community in France?  Do the time it takes to travel there, the paperwork (new passport) and the expense seems too daunting a challenge to see what it is all about?  Have no fear there is an opportunity at the Collins Retreat Center to taste how this style of prayer, worship and life can feed your spirit.  The retreat will be held August 5-8 and will include: worship, learning opportunities and time for reflection and the nurturing of your soul.  You can register on-line by going to http://www.collinsretreatcenter.org click on “events” at the top of the page, then click on “Retreat in the Taize Tradition” and follow the prompts to register.  Space is limited for this event so sign up today.
    —Todd Bartlett

  • May 31, 2010

    Remembering:
    Today is Memorial Day. Many donors to Camp & Retreat Ministries give in memory of a loved family member or friend.  In 2010 so far, these people have been remembered by a gift to:

    Strength for the Journey Ministries in memory of Richard Burton
    Suttle Lake Camp
        and Camp Magruder Endowment       in memory of Lillian Butzin
    Wallowa Lake Camp in memory of Shirley Cotton
    Where most needed in memory of Eugene and Sally Eggleston
    Where most needed in memory of Bob French
    Where most needed in memory of Virginia Garthwait
    Joy Fund (camp scholarship fund)
    & Creation Vacation           in memory of Dick Harry
    Where most needed in memory of Bob Harvey
    Camp Magruder in memory of Helen Harrison
    Joy Fund and Camp Magruder in memory of John Jackman
    Knotts Family Campership Endowment in memory of Ross Knotts
    Where most needed in memory of Miriam Koester
    Wallowa Lake Scholarship Endowment in memory of Hester McColm
    Where most needed in memory of Ruth Peterson
    Camp Latgawa in memory of Hermine VanDelden
    Camp Magruder in memory of Julene Wallis

    Thank you all very much. 
    —Susan Delaney
    (If you gave in memory of someone in 2010 and don’t see their name here, please contact .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) ) 


    Remember to get registered for camp
    Handbell camp at Camp Magruder is already full and taking names for a waiting list.  Other events are very close to being full, too.  Don’t be disappointed; register for your dream event right away.
    —Geneva Cook

    Upcoming events:
    • CRAFTy Women in the Woods - Sawtooth
    June 13 - June 17
    • Handbell Camp - Wallowa Lake
    June 13 - June 16
    • Horse Whisperers Camp - Wallowa Lake
    June 15 - June 20

  • Special requests / Because of Camp / a note from Oasis - May 24, 2010

    Every camper is unique:
    Pastors, Camp Coordinators, and Parents of Campers,
            In order to best serve all campers would you please tell us what your child needs to be successful?  By letting us know ahead of time, we can make sure we are prepared for your camper with the staff and knowledge we need to make this a great event. 
            You can communicate needs via the notes section of the registration form (or online), with the “about me” form for younger campers, or through a separate note that will be shared with the camp director and deans who recruit, train,  and assign the best staff possible for your child.  We want to work with you! 
    —Karen Benson

    From the President: (of ACA, that is!)
    “I hope your children will be among the 10 million who attend camp this summer — children who connect with the natural world, experience the value of community, and engage in fun, physical activity. Camp provides children with a life changing experience — an opportunity to participate, not just observe — to make friends and succeed at new skills.”  Be sure to watch the ACA video “Because of Camp” at http://www.campparents.org/becauseofcamp/
    —Peter Surgenor
      President,
      American Camp Association

    ...and adults, too:
    Oasis Community Church in Salem, OR had this to say about their men’s retreat:
    “Reflecting on this past weekend and our retreat, I’d be remiss if I didn’t express to you how grateful we are to you and your staff for providing us with the perfect environment for our men to experience the move of God in a powerful and timely way.  The lodge was perfect…clean, and just the right size.  The meals were outstanding; the staff was kind and helpful.  Simply, the perfect environment!  From all us guys at Oasis, thank you tons!  Pass it along.”
    —Scott Quackenbush

  • Memorial Day / Gulf oil spill / Sawtooth leaders   -  May 17, 2010

    Memorial Day:
    Last week, we lifted up one Memorial Day event, but we should have lifted up all of them. Keep your eye on the Camp & Retreat Ministries events calendar, so you don’t miss a thing!

     Magruder:  Memorial Day Family Camp
     Sawtooth:  Memorial Day Work Weekend
     Suttle Lake:  Round-up Volunteer Weekend
     Wallowa Lake:  Rendezvous Weekend


    Ideas: discussing the BP oil spill with your kids:
    Not sure how to discuss the BP Gulf of Mexico oil spill with your kids? Check out a Parents Guide for tips, and learn more about the Gulf oil spill in a child friendly voice.
    —National Wildlife Federation (the “Ranger Rick” people)


    Sawtooth leaders:
    Sawtooth’s on-site leadership training for this summer’s volunteers is coming up the weekend of June 4-6th.  Click here for more information and register now!

  • Memorial Day / Handbells / Remembering Wayne Young

    Forget the snow; summer’s coming:
    WHAT WILL YOU BE DOING OVER MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND?  Chances are you’d like to spend it in the great outdoors with people you enjoy!  Wouldn’t it be great if you could do this AND contribute towards something you care about too?  Well at Suttle Lake’s Round Up Weekend you can do just that.  Join us for all or part of the weekend helping with camp projects of all sizes.  Find out more at http://gocamping.org/camps-retreats/detail/roundup-suttle-lake or contact Daniel or Jane Petke at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or 541-595-6663.


    “There Rings a Melody”:
    Handbell Camp at Wallowa Lake Camp is a month away.  This is a new camp open to long time bell ringers and those who want to learn for the first time..
    The camp begins Sunday evening June 13 and ends Wed the 16th.  Dean Mason a former music teacher from Hermiston is the camp dean.
    He has wonderful music that will accommodate all levels of experience. 
    There is free time to hike in the mountains, walk to Wallowa Lake or see the sights in Joseph. Cost is $200 with housing in the deluxe round cabins.  Plan now to come and live out the camp theme, “Ringing in Christian Fellowship”.
    Visit http://www.gocamping.org to print off a registration form, or call the Conference Camping office at 1-503-802-9210 - Ex 213
    —Handbell Camp Dean and Director, Dean Mason
    541-564-9789 Home
    541-314-5406 Cell


    In Memoriam:
    Suttle Lake volunteer Wayne Young died May 1st.  You may remember him for his smile or stories at the camp store.  Wayne has requested memorial gifts be directed to the Suttle Lake shower house.
    Thank YOU and blessings!
    —Jane Petke

  • Nag / News / Birds / In Memoriam

    Nag, nag:
    The last day to sign up for Rate A in the tiered priced events is this Wednesday. Just make sure your mailed registration is postmarked May 5th or hop on-line and register with a credit card until midnight May 5th.

    New Latgawa newsletter:
    Catch up on all the news from Camp Latgawa in their Spring 2010 newsletter.  Sing along to “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Summer,” read about the upcoming open house and other events, and find out what the “King’s Finger” is!  Enjoy!

    For the birds:
    There are still a few spots left for the Birding and Natural History Camp leaving from Suttle Lake Camp on May 23rd.  It’s a beautiful vacation through Oregon’s most remote areas.  Register on-line ASAP or call Geneva at 503-802-9213 for more information.

    Remembering Rev. Ross Knotts:
    Ross Knotts, long time supporter of Camp & Retreat Ministries especially at Camp Latgawa, passed away April 26th.  Cards can be sent to his wife, Marge, at 1200 Mira Mar #308, Medford, OR 97504, and to his daughter, the Reverend Alice Knotts, at PO Box 19291, San Diego, CA 92159-9291.  Please hold Ross’s family in your prayers.

  • Stitch / Sing / Volunteer / Aloha!  April 26. 2010

    Stitching enthusiasts:

    Quilting & Fiber Arts Camp begins May 13th.  Spend some time in the beauty of God’s creation while working on your favorite quilting and fiber arts projects.  You will enjoy lodge-style accommodations, delicious food and the fellowship of Christian community.  Camp Latgawa is lovely this time of year and well worth the drive.  The cost for this four-day event is $120/$130/$140.  Under our tiered pricing plan, you pick the price that best fits your budget. (Note:  The deadline for choosing Tier A is May 5th!!)  You can count on having a wonderful time!

    —Beth Dieker

    Hymn fest returns:

    The Alton L. Collins Retreat Center is about to launch the second year of its popular “Great Hymns of the Faith” series. This year’s version debuts on Thursday, May 27, at 10:30 am in the Grace Collins Goudy Chapel at the Retreat Center. Participants gather for singing wonderful old hymns and learning the stories behind them. After a gourmet lunch, guests are invited to stay and enjoy the walking trails, tour the facility, shop the 10,000 Villages display, or simply relax in the library. Last year’s program filled up completely, so make sure to register in advance by clicking here or call the retreat center directly at 503-637-6411.  The cost is $15 for each program, including lunch.  The “Great Hymns of the Faith” series continues with programs on August 26 and October 21. Choose one or all three!

    —Laura Jaquith Bartlett

    Volunteers:  ready…  set…  register!   

    Now that you have said “yes” to the dean to counsel or serve at a 2010 event… take that next step and get registered as a volunteer!  We now have on-line registration for volunteers just like for campers.  Here’s where to start….

    Register to volunteer at Camp Latgawa
    Register to volunteer at Camp Magruder
    Register to volunteer at Sawtooth Camp
    Register to volunteer at Suttle Lake Camp
    Register to volunteer at Wallowa Lake Camp
    Do you want to volunteer, but don’t know where?  Register to volunteer at any site

    and we will match you up with a camp that is looking for volunteers.

    —Geneva Cook

    Aloha!

    Make your plans now to “Come to the Waters” for a wonderful retreat at Camp Mokule’ia on Oahu in Hawaii, February 6-11, 2011.  Click for more information on this exciting new event.

    —Beth Dieker

  • April 19 - following Jesus / staycation / remembering Helen

    Following Jesus is good for the planet…

    ...or at least it should be. Embrace sustainable living out of love for God, neighbor, and all of creation!  This is the radical yet solidly biblical premise of “Blessed Earth.”  “We serve as the hands and feet of God on the earth.  By following Jesus wholeheartedly the church will become the strongest proponent for saving the planet.  And our care, compassion, and joyful generosity will breathe hope into a world longing for redemption.”

    —Dr. Matthew Sleeth, founder of Blessed Earth.

    Summer Stay-cation

    Are you an adult and looking for a great place to spend a week away from home and still live within your budget?  We have the solution for you at the Alton L. Collins Retreat Center.  The week of June 27 – July 3 we will be hosting a work week. There are many projects to be done: trail repair, roofing, painting, deck repair, gardening, floor installation, cabinet repair, sink installation, sign making, wood splitting and much more.  The week will include three gourmet meals each day, devotions to begin and end the day and the great company of other generous souls.  See our website for more details or call Todd Bartlett at 503.637.6411 or email him at: .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)

    Peace,

    —Rev. Todd Bartlett

    Remembering Helen:

    The Celebration of Life Service for Helen Harrison will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 24th at Camp Magruder in Sherlock Lodge with reception to follow in Carrier Lodge.

  • April 12 - Remembering Helen / Invest in kids / Earth Day

    Remembering Helen:
    We learned Friday of the passing of long-time Camp Magruder registrar Helen Harrison at her home in Rockaway Beach, OR.  Please join us in holding Helen’s husband Jay, the family, their friends, and the Magruder staff in prayer.

    Now, more than ever!
    Schools cutting programs, social services cutting programs, & serious stresses on family systems make it imperative that we get kids to summer camp to experience the love of God in a natural setting with people who nurture their growth in Christ. Kids are NOT the “future of the church” they are here NOW. Help churches & families invest in the spiritual development of a young person Now More Than Ever.
    —Lisa Jean Hoefner

    Earth Day
    For churches looking to CRMT for earth day resources:
    Dear Friends and Colleagues:
    A special thanks to Deb Smith, Director of Best Practices with the GBOD who created a U-Tube Video based on the UM Bishop’s “God’s Renewed Creation” letter.  It ties the words of the letter with pictures of the natural world and is a good tool to bring color and movement with the words of the letter.  I thought you might enjoy having it in your toolbox of resources.  Thanks Deb for sharing your efforts with all of us!

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wRZmewufKoI

    Blessings Everyone!
    —Kevin Witt, National Director of Camp & Retreat Ministries

  • April 5, 2010

    Magruder invites you…
    ...to volunteer at camp this summer. Camp Magruder is currently recruiting counselors, nurses, camp listeners, clergy, musicians, and all else who are interested in impacting youth at camp this summer. We can’t run a week of camp without the help of our tremendous volunteers. Please help spread the word of this exciting opportunity. If you are interested please contact Amy Wood, Program Services Director, at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) or 503.355.2310.

    For information on volunteering at any of our sites, please visit:
    http://gocamping.org/volunteer/


    Phone update:
    The phone extensions for Camp & Retreat have recently changed. 
     Lisa Jean Hoefner - extension 211
     Geneva Cook     -  extension 213
     Susan Delaney   -  extension 212


    Earth Day Resource for groups
    On Wednesday April 21, the eve of the 40th anniversary of Earth Day, you have an opportunity to join with Blessed Earth to share an international simulcast, Hope for Creation, to be aired live around the world at 7:30 p.m. (EST and PST). The event will be one hour long. It will include prayer, musical guests, and an introduction of a new creation care film series by the makers of NOOMA. There will be a conversation between the participants around the globe using straightforward Internet, cell phone, and Skype technology.

    Any group that has access to the Internet can participate. So far, those signing up range from small groups to schools to churches and entire conferences: let creativity be your guide—there’s even a zoo signed up. If you’re involved with a coffee shop, concert hall, theater, or other venue with Internet access that can host a group, go for it!
    View the trailer and find out more from the website:  http://www.blessedearth.org/simulcast

  • Mar 29, 2010

    Camp Sunday Resources
    We’ve compiled some ideas to help as you plan your spring Camp Sunday events or your church retreat. Don’t just announce camp - invite persons. Remember especially children and youth not connected to the church.
    • Promoting Camp at your Church
    • Preparing for Camp Sunday 2010
    —Karen Benson

    Spring comes to Alton L Collins Retreat Center
    .Read the March ALCRC newsletter here.
    —Todd Bartlett

    Baseball, Apple Pie, and Summer Camp . . . Take Heart America, Some Traditions Still Prevail!
    Read more from The American Camp Association. 

    Good Friday
    The Camp & Retreat Ministries office at the Conference Center will be closed on
    Friday, April 2, in observance of Good Friday.
    April 2nd is also the camp registrar’s 50th birthday.  Happy Birthday, Geneva!
    —Susan Delaney

  • surveyor needed / camp Sunday / visits from camp / older adult ministries

    Volunteer surveyor needed
    Suttle Lake Camp is seeking surveyor services, and requires a surveyor grade GPS to complete work on mapping out the camp’s boundary.  Are you a surveyor that can help or know a surveyor that would like to support camping ministry?  Please contact Jane Petke at 541-595-6663 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).  Thanks!
    —Jane Petke

    Camp Sunday
    If you haven’t already planned a Camp Sunday event, now is the time to do so.  Get your church excited about the upcoming summer season.  Resources can be found at the gocamping.org site.
    —Karen Benson

    Bring camp to you
    Are you interested in going to camp, or eager to invite someone new to share the experience of camp?  Or would you like to see more people from your church have the experience of camp? Well, Steven Wilson from Suttle Lake Camp is offering church visits to help promote camp (at all of our sites). A church visit could be at any time: during your service, coffee hour or fellowship time, meeting with Sunday school classes or even meeting with your youth group.  A church visit could consist of any of the following:  sharing a day in the life of camp, singing camp songs, offering devotions or demonstrating challenge course activities.  Steven’s willing to work with you to reach your goals for the visit. To find out more or to schedule a visit please contact Steven at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
    —Steven Wilson

    Older Adult Ministries opportunity
    Here is the link for the upcoming event for Older Adult Ministries, for the whole Western Jurisdiction, hosted in Pacific Northwest Conference just to our north.  Please help us get word to other leaders and people you think might be interested in strengthening older adult ministry in local congregations!  If you’re planning to attend, maybe we could let each other know and coordinate transportation plans, rooms, etc. 
    http://www.pnwumc.org/attachments/277_FLIER_EnergizingElders_revised.pdf 

  • ACA / Portland Family Magazine / job opportunity

    The ACA celebrates 100 years

    Click here to view a new video from the American Camp Association celebrating 100 years of camping. It is more about the power of camp experiences than celebrating their organization.  It is inspiring to watch and realize that we are part of movement that has touched many lives through the unique settings and learning approaches that characterize camps and retreats in general. Somewhere in the neighborhood of 1/3 of the camps belonging to ACA are religiously affiliated.

    —Dawn Swindle, ACA

    Portland Family Magazine Article

    http://portlandfamily.com/unforgettable-campfire-and-camping-memories/

    Lots of our former campers’ comments were published in this great article in the Portland Family Magazine.  See what they have to say!

    —Susan Delaney

    Employment: Part-Time Youth Director
    Looking for people with that camp-like joie de vivre.
    Christ United Methodist Church, located in NW Portland, is currently seeking a Youth Director for approximately 15 hours/week.  CUMC is part of a cooperative Youth program and this position will be working closely with the Youth Director of our partner church, Aloha UMC.  For a full job description, go to http://www.cumcpdx.org and go to Employment.  Anticipated start for this position is mid-May to early June 2010.
    —Scott Erickson

  • Lenten resource/ Northrup-Snyder retreat/ Winter at Wallowa (Feb 12, 2010)

    Lenten Creation Care resource
    Need fresh food for thought and prayer during Lent? Consider signing up for a weekly Lenten Reflection during Lent from the National Council of Churches Eco-Justice Program. Send an e mail to Tyler at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) with the subject, “Lenten reflections,” and your name will be added to the list.

    Health and happiness
    S.P.A.H. Retreat for Women led by Kathlynn Northrup-Snyder, PhD, MSN, CNS, RN.
    Workshops at this event are professionally led, offering concrete tools to promote positive body image, spiritual health, and open communication.  Extras, like professional workbooks, delicious meals, and opportunities to pamper yourself, set this weekend apart. Read more about the event, then register through gocamping.org/calendar/ or register directly: click here.

    Wallow Lake Camp opens for 2010
    Need a late winter get away?  Wallowa Lake Camp has turned on the water & electricity, fluffed the quilts, and readied the linens for 2 of the deluxe cabins (yurts) so you can come enjoy the beauty and restfulness of the Wallowa Mountains at this time of year.  Cost: A pledge to the Time to Grow campaign.  Questions?
    Contact David or Ingrid 541-432-1271 or .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address) .

    PS: Geneva says keep your eyes open at church for the new camp catalogs.  They’re in the mail this week.

  • New Camp Catalog / John Lionberger Video / Feb 10, 2010

    The 2010 Camp Catalog is at the printers!  Copies will be available at church offices by the first of March (Oregon and Idaho United Methodist Churches and Western Oregon Episcopal Churches).  Remember, all the events in the catalog are now on the Gocamping Calendar of Events, and you can register directly from the calendar links.

    The catalog is 32 pages long, and it’s downloadable here.  It’s 5,500 KB so be patient as it loads.  It’s worth it!

    Still looking for information? contact the camping office at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)  or 1-800-593-7539 x 43.
    _____________

    We think you’ll enjoy this link to a PBS video interview of Rev. John Lionberger, a UCC pastor, about the power of wilderness experiences for drawing people closer to God.  http://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/episodes/december-11-2009/wilderness-spirituality/5194/comment-page-1/#comment-3260
    It is a great clip and article that helps persons understand this dimension of what they can do through camp and retreat ministries.

  • Past E-News

    If you’d like t see an E-News from an even earlier date, contact Susan at .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address).
    Thanks!