News Time, July 5, 2010

It’s NEWSTIME! There was so much positive feedback from the news notes I sent last year, that I think I’d better do it again this year...so here goes!

TRAINING EVENT has come and gone, and was held this year at Cataraqui. Having fewer bodies (Norwich and LUCC opted out this year) made it possible for us to be back at the Scout Camp. There were 10 LITs, 17 Adullam Staff, and 7 Alvinston Staff. Miriam Dodman headed up the kitchen, and you may attribute the beautiful weather we enjoyed last week to her earnest petitions that it not be too hot in the kitchen. Lisa Derynck was her co-cook from Tuesday on. The hot boxes were well used and MUCH appreciated. Julianne Breen and Shelby Chalupka  were excellent kitchen helpers...you couldn’t have asked for more!

Sessions were taught by Nicole Stronks (who also pitched in in the kitchen at the drop of a hat), Janet Gargano, Jim Breen, Linda Leigh, Jill Matsuo, Shari Watson (all the way from Houston TX), Ann Green, Jim Pepper, me, April Brien, and I think that’s it. Jill, Shari, Ann and Dave and Richard DeJonge did the most amazing campfire on Sunday night. Lots and lots of good stuff happening.

STRATHROY DAYCAMP has 33 campers registered. Jim Pepper and Robbie, Josh and Andrew are staying at the Edwards home, and the girls...Veronica, Alaura  and Julianne are in the Breen’s Camper in the back yard I guess. There will be more later on this camp.

ADULT ART: When I dropped in on this group, 2 women were experimenting with water colour painting skills, and the other 7 were getting a lesson on making corsages. Sewing machines were set up and things were happening! The 3 new people responded to the newspaper ad about the courses. The building was pretty warm, but a very nice-looking air conditioning technician was clambering about checking things. I’m sure he has improved things already.

OASIS: My first stop was at the SPY building where about 20 kids were enjoying a circle game. Katie was pleased with the turn-out and what I noticed most were the large numbers of little boys! In the SPOM building another group (all boys) of about 12  in number were carefully constructing God’s Eyes (a Mexican art form) from sticks and brightly coloured  yarns. They were so quiet and intent on what they were doing. In the gym it was Dodge Ball with probably 20 more kids. They were enjoying both the game and the air conditioning! It was delightful to see the LITs, the Junior Leaders, and the Staff interacting with the campers in a positive, energetic manner. I’m sure they will all have a great week!

Of course the Alvinston Team is busy too...this week running  a ROMAN DAY CAMP! There will be togas I’m thinking!

Stay tuned for more updates!