Spring 2015 Volume 34 Number 1

2 newsletter spring 2015

The Wilds Christian Association, Inc. is an independent, nondenominational, nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization created for the purpose of operating Christian camps and conference centers. We are fundamental in our beliefs, Bible-centered in our philosophy, and evangelistic in our outreach.

The Wilds Christian Association, Inc. presently operates a Christian camp and conference center in the Blue Ridge Mountains of western North Carolina that is open year-round. The camp has a carefully selected and trained staff and averages over 20,000 campers per year. In 2009 The Wilds of New England began ministry at our campsite in Deering, New Hampshire. In this peaceful, rural setting we experienced good growth in attendance at our summer camps as well as in our limited fall schedule programs. We anticipate a continuing steady growth and expansion of the ministry at this New England location.

In addition to providing a God-honoring music publication service as an integral part of our ministry, The Wilds Christian Association, Inc. has also established the CampsAbroad program to assist others in the formation and operation of Christian camp ministries around the world.

The Wilds Christian Association, Inc. publishes The Wilds NewsLetter. Change of address information and comments should be sent to:

The Wilds Christian Association, IncPO Box 509 Taylors, SC 29687-0009Phone: (864) 268-4760Fax: (864) 292-0743E-mail: newsletter@wilds.org

Visit our website at www.wilds.org or visit The Wilds Online Store at www.wilds.org/store.Editor: Ken CollierGraphic Designer: Craig Stouffer

Publications Coordinator: Vickie EbnerSpring 2015 Volume 34 Number 1 2015 The Wilds Christian Association, Inc. All rights reserved.

The Wilds and CampsAbroad are registered trademarks of The Wilds Christian Association, Inc.

North Carolina Campsite:

The Wilds 1000 Wilds Ridge RoadBrevard, NC 28712-7273Phone: (828) 884-7811Fax: (828) 862-4813

New England Campsite:

The Wilds of New England1181 Deering Center RoadDeering, NH 03244-6529Phone: (603) 529-0001Fax: (864) 862-4813

I am Ken, your Matre D for this event. I started out as a dishwasher for this establishment, and it was the best decision of my life! Perhaps youve visited one of our venues before, perhaps not, but we want this to be a pleasurable experience in every way. At The Wilds family of fine, campy

establishments, we have cooked up a rich feast of fun and first-

rate camp experiences for over 45 years! Now, you know were not talking food specifically in this NewsLetter (though our real chefs

are beyond amazing), but about whats cooking around the camp in preparation for the most amazing summer camp weeks on the planet! Allow me to explain the specially prepared seven course camp experience meal we want to serve you today, which will focus on this summers weeks of camp at The Wilds in North Carolina and The Wilds of New England! Allow us to begin this delectable walk-

through with our first formal course called The Amuse. The other courses will follow in order, written by our highly regarded chefs.

by Ken CollierPresident The Wilds

Brevard, North Carolina

Welcome to THE WILDS Christian Camp & Conference Center

LADIES ANDGENTLEMEN!

www.wilds.org 3

This is Ken, your Matre D once more. While your chefs are preparing the courses, I have the privilege of presenting your formal amuse today. We have prepared several offerings that will, hopefully, incite the taste buds to know where to find more and more specific

information about The Wilds camps! You are now sampling our first offering of information todaythis NewsLetter (not to be taken internally). Who in your family or your church youth group needs to be served at The Wilds this year? At both The Wilds in North Carolina and The Wilds of New England in New Hampshire, we specialize in a full summer of action and fun for teens (13-18 years of age) and juniors

(9-12 years of age.) Might we suggest you please take a visit

to The Wilds website at www.wilds.org or www.thewildsofnewengland.org to see the full menu of camps and other great information that will help you get to know the campsites better? We have a very active presence on Facebook (facebook.com/wildswe love to be

liked), Instagram (instagram.com/

wildscamp) and Twitter (@wildscamp).

To help you get an additional taste of The Wilds Camps, we prepare a full range of side dishes to inform you of campsite events. For one thing, staff members are periodically available to come to your church to present the full spread of all that is going on at The Wilds campsites. You may contact Chef John Bott through info@wilds.org for staff availability. For the last 3 years, weve featured our own Ministry Team, which traveled the southeast and beyond giving samples of all the adventurous weeks and weekends one might enjoy

at camp. We have videos available at no charge to help you get to know our programs and help introduce the various camps to friends you know might be interested. There are

brochures for each program we would be happy to send you. For those of you in the southern region of the country, The Wilds sponsors an all-day camp experience

for teens called Farm Fest. It is staged on a farm (where else?) in the

Greenville, South Carolina, area during the fall of each

year. This years Farm Fest will be October 10, 2015, and

we are privileged to have Rand Hummel,

the executive chef (uh, director) at The

Wilds of New England, speaking to the teens. Bring the youth group! Rand has been a friend

of teenagers throughout his entire ministry. His

friends from The Wilds in North Carolina will be cooking

up the music and Funtime comedy for this all day camp taste-a-thon! For all of these informational items, youll find

contact information in this NewsLetter. We hope The Amuse has left you slightly hungry to enjoy your next course.

1st Course:

The Amuse

At certain restaurants, before the meal begins, diners are presented with a complimentary hors doeuvre called an amuse which is typically very flavorful and intended to amuse or stimulate the palate. These are usually offered as a gift from the chef and are intended to get the diner excited about the meal by offering a bit of insight as to what the chef is capable of.

4 newsletter Spring 2015

by Matt HerbsterDirector, The Wilds

Brevard, North Carolina

As an appetizer before we feast on the summer offerings yet to come, lets go a little bit behind the scenes at The Wilds, beginning with the makeup of the staff. There is a lot of experience that goes into the mix for a summer week at The Wilds and The Wilds of New England. There are many experienced hands in the maintenance area, the office, the

health service, the kitchens and Dining Halls, the stores and shops, the program, and the administration. Many of the

present full-time staff members were themselves summer

staff members and, in a number of cases, campers. The camp directors, Matt Herbster in North Carolina and Rand

Hummel in New England, have gained much experience and added many new, creative concepts to the camp through the years.

The Wilds first offered camp weeks in the summer of 1969.

As a foundation point, we have always had a highly qualified

staff made up of the most amazing young adults who are known for having a desire to be growing Christians. Aside from two truly beautiful campsites, we know the young adults of the summer staff make up the backbone of the camp week for each camper. Recruitment and placement of the summer is a huge priority throughout the entire year as we contract and train 144 counselors and 142

operational staff at the North Carolina campsite alone. Add another 22 counselors and 26 operational staff members

in New England, and its easy to see what an immense task gathering the staff is. They come from a dozen or so Christian colleges and another dozen secular colleges. Each staff member is recommended by their school and their local church as well as former staff members who know the pressures that are present with a summer week.

There is an amazing opportunity to get acquainted with one of the dedicated young adults that comprise the staff through our Summer Partner Program. One summer staff member is paired with a summer partner from anywhere in the country. Many times the summer partner knows the

summer staff member personally, but in many cases, they are paired later. The summer partner furnishes prayer support for his partner and donates up to $600, helping to

defray the cost of the summer staff members life-changing

summer at camp. In exchange, the summer staff member writes his partner sharing the inside blessings and pressures of a wide-open week of camp. Both partners are blessed

with this partnership. If you would like to get this very personal look at camp, if you know one of the young adults on staff this summer, if you were a staff member yourself, or if you would like to gain a new ministry friend, please write or call Mrs. Robin McAdams in the Taylors office. She

will give you all the information needed to be a part of the Summer Partner Program. The summer staff is one of the most important ingredients to the summer at The Wilds and The Wilds of New England. Ah, I see the third course is coming your way. You will be served by Chef Susan Burke, otherwise known as the Office Manager in Taylors, South

Carolina.

Appetizers, also called starters, are the first course of a meal and are served in small portions because more courses usually follow. Because they are smaller in size, appetizers are usually heightened in flavor and, like the amuse, are intended to get your palate and internal organs (ugh-editorial comment) stimulated in preparation for the remainder of

the meal.

2nd Course:

The AppetizerThe salad course is sometimes served in addition to an appetizersometimes it is the appetizer and sometimes it is served at the end of the meal following the entree, before the dessert. Salads are light enough to satisfy, but not fill up a diner before they get to the rest of their meal. When served at the end of a meal, a salad aids in digestion and cleanses the palate before dessert is served. It is traditional in many European cultures to eat the salad

following, rather than preceding, the entree.

www.wilds.org 5

Yes, you may have your potato, but you must eat your salad first. Children know

that the path to any fun eating must go through the salad. Its good that so many kids love it nowadays. The path to get a child to camp at The Wilds, should go through one of our most amazing tools

Online Registration. It doesnt matter what camp you are planning to attend, you will need to make sure to try out this light and satisfying course, Online Registrations, or OLR for short. There are

many options to choose from, whether its Teen or Junior Boot Camp, Marriage

Conferences, Sr. Adult Retreats, or Family Camps. Weve got it all. Just make your choice and well help serve it right up!

OLR is designed to allow you to, well,

register for camp online! We have some lovely chefs who are always ready and willing to serve you and help you get registered. OLR allows you to create a

login and password and register for the camp of your choice. You can choose your toppingsaccommodations and

roommatesso that we can help make

your time with us more enjoyable. Some

toppings are not

options, but ultimately good for

you. They include medical information and legal guardian information for our campers 18

and under. Once you have made your choices and paid your deposit, you will receive a confirmation receipt via

e-mail.

While we have many camps during the spring, summer, and fall at both of our locations, we want to focus your attention today on some options that are mainly for summer camp.

Youth Pastors: You can keep track of your entire group online. You can check at any time to see which of your teens have registered. You also have the option to personally register the teens or have the parents register them. Of course, our chefs are continually keeping track of the orders and making sure the toppings are correct. They will also send you a listing twice before you come to camp so you have a complete copy of who has registered for your group, how much has been paid, and how much is owed. This is a great tool to help you enjoy a hassle-

free registration day at camp.

Parents: You can register your kids as individuals if they are not coming with a youth group and get your confirmation

e-mails delivered directly to you. We

encourage you to contact our chefs at any time if you have questions regarding camp. And when you send your children to camp again next year, simply choose your childs name from your profile,

update their grade, and complete the registration online.

At times, its possible that a camper gets carrots instead of the bacon they ordered. In this case, we encourage you to call or e-mail us with the problem

and someone will help you resolve the problem as crisply as a cool, fresh salad. While our system is not perfect, it does help us keep track of the information needed for you (or your child) to come

to camp. We are always updating our system to help make it better and easier for you.

One of our favorite parts of this course is the dressing. Are you wondering what that is? Thats easyits YOU! We

love meeting you in person! Mondays at

camp are busy days in the summer, but it is definitely the highlight of our week

for all of us in the office. We love seeing

old friends and meeting new ones! Now, are you ready to order your special OLR

salad, served up with a smile? Well see you soon!

The salad course is sometimes served in addition to an appetizersometimes it is the appetizer and sometimes it is served at the end of the meal following the entree, before the dessert. Salads are light enough to satisfy, but not fill up a diner before they get to the rest of their meal. When served at the end of a meal, a salad aids in digestion and cleanses the palate before dessert is served. It is traditional in many European cultures to eat the salad

following, rather than preceding, the entree.

3rd Course:

The Salad

by Susan Burke Office Manager The WildsTaylors, South Carolina

6 newsletter spring 2015

We are excited to see how God has blessed in both of our locations this past year! Both campsites are adding and improving camper activities and onsite facilities. At TheWilds

of New England the Zipline, New England style, is welcoming riders for its second summer of imparting the highest of thrills to all campers. This is one incredible ride! We are excited, also, to announce several new cabins as well as new furnace systems for those cabins to keep the cold out and the warmth in. Yes, even in summertime!

Speaking of warm and welcoming, TWNE is also thrilled to announce the arrival of the new Assistant Director, Steve Stodola and his family. Steve was the Director of TheWilds of the Rockies for 6 years and has

been ministering as the assistant to the director at TheWilds

of North Carolina for the past 11 years. His wife, Rhonae, has

been working with the Snack Shop in North Carolina as well as her

full-time job as a mother and full-time teacher to

2 of their children. The Stodolas have 4 children:

Kristy (currently studying Music Education with

an emphasis in strings at Bob Jones University),

Drew (hoping to be a walk-on with the Boston

Celtics and join the Boston Symphony with the

classical guitar ), David (aspiring Lego engineer),

and Daniel (looking to use his love for animals as

a part-time zookeeper in the Granite State Zoo).I

may be a little off on the particulars, but this is a delightful family ready to throw themselves into the ministry of TWNE!

The North Carolina location has seen a highly anticipated new Freetime activity finally completed. The 3rd

Falls Zipline will be fully operational this summer! This zipline has 2 sections with a combined length of 1,400 feet. The zipline

gives the rider an awesome view of both the 3rd Falls and

the Jocassee River Gorge. If you can't quite stomach the 250

height over Toxaway Creek, no worries! We have also built a 2 story observation deck overlooking the waterfall and both

ziplines so you can participate in the action from a distance and still get a beautiful view of this not frequently seen waterfall. We are also excited about some changes in the schedule for this summer. Back in the schedule for Thursday nights is our late night pizza party and activities including a hole-in-one

competition on our miniature golf course, night rides on the Land Trolley, basketball under the lights, a 2nd ride on the

Giant Swing for all seniors in high school, and a host of other activities!

Most importantly we are excited to announce a new 6 week

God & I Time Study through Matthew 5. This outlines a recipe

for developing whole-hearted devotion to our Savior. As

always we will have new and fresh faces on our counseling and contracted staff ready to spend time loving God and loving campers. Come see us this summer to take part and see how God is blessing! When it comes to adventure in camping, TheWilds serves up soup to nuts!

Thats right. Usually this course calls for anything from a light, clear broth to a hearty puree. The type of soup being offered is often determined by what is to follow in the meal. However, at The Wilds Restaurant, this course is Soup to Nuts which is an Americana expression meaning from the beginning to the end. It became a byword for a meal that included everything from the beginning soup to the nuts on the dessert. Chef Joe, Program Director in North Carolina, is a soup to nuts guy, and he wants to tell you whats new, whats improved, and what will be spicy if you come to The Wilds or The Wilds of New England this summer!

by Joe Fant Program Director The WildsBrevard, North Carolina

4th Course:

Soup to Nuts

www.wilds.org 7

5th Course:

The Main Course

Appetizers and all of the other preliminaries to the meal are introduced to get you excited about the main course. Desserts are the ahh! with a good cup of coffee after a wonderful meal, sweetly filling in whatever room is left. The main course, though, is the

main event, the sustainerespecially if you are a meat-and-potato

kind of person. Even if you go to the fanciest eating establishment in town, you will be offered some kind of meat and taterbe it

a porterhouse steak and baked potato, an herb-crusted salmon

and rice, a honey-baked ham and scalloped potatoes, a chicken

parmesan and angel-hair pasta, or a double-bacon-burger and fries

all are made to put a smile on your face and inches on your waist.

The camp week itself, in a way, is at least a 7 course meal. There are so many aspects of camp to enjoy from unusual activities, new

friends, zany counselors, ice cream sundaes, fear-inducing ziplines,

beautiful hikes, salted caramel lattes, crazy team cheers, Funtime skits, and good looking preachers (ahem!) just to name a few.

But, if we had to choose one thing that would most compare to the main course of a rich, culinary spreadit would obviously have to

be our dedicated time in the Word of God. Check out this menu of dedicated time in the Word of God which is a part of every camping day at The Wilds campsites:

Camper Prayer Meetings: What a joy to hear dozens of teens voluntarily praying for their friends before breakfast as the day begins.

Morning Chapel: This summer we will all take a close look at a portion of our Lords Sermon on the Mount and be reminded

of the responsibility and joy of being part of Gods kingdom.

Personal God & I Time: This is a highlight of every day where we have the opportunity to tune out the rest of the world and focus on our relationship with our wonderful Lord and what He

wants us to learn from His precious Word.

God & I Time Follow-up: After an in-depth study of a portion of Matthew 5 in chapel, and then personally meditating

on the same text with the help of a God & I Time booklet, campers and counselors then get together to discuss what they learned and which truths meant the most to their hearts.

Christian Life Seminar: The Bible has answers to every question in life. Campers spend an hour almost every day getting practical Bible counsel on the issues that they face in life, at school, and at home.

Evening Services: The entire day seems to point to this time. Soul-stirring music prepares our hearts for a strong challenge

from Gods holy Word. Men who are gifted to communicate the

gospel message open up the Scriptures in a way that lives are convicted, challenged, comforted, and changed. It is amazing to see God working through His living Word.

Cabin Devotions: Five minutes to reflect on everything that God has taught that day seems hardly enough. What a joy

(and new experience for many) to go to sleep thinking about the

goodness of God and thanking Him for a wonderful day in His Word.

Dedicated time in the Word of God. This is the sustaining main course that we all love and look forward to at camp. It took me 500

words to say what David said in 9...

O taste and see that the Lord is good! Psalm 34:8a

What can you say, except that a week at one of The Wilds campsites is a full course meal of dedicated time in the Word of God!

The main course,

often referred to as the entree, is the savory

culmination of the meal that all of the other courses have built up

to. The main course usually consists of the largest portion of the meal and in many cases features some

type of protein. Sometimes a meal is divided into multiple entrees such

as a fish and a meat course, but generally there is only

one main course.

by Rand Hummel Director The Wilds of New EnglandDeering, New Hampshire

8 newsletter spring 2015

On every good menu you must have an assortment of flavors to tantalize

the taste buds. Well, at TheWilds

and TheWilds of New England, we have

a tradition known as Funtime. It is generally a series of skits, funny songs, audience participation, and the absolute cheesiest jokes imaginable. It lasts about 45 minutes

one evening, as this is about all people can take (because of

laughing, of course)! Weve got 57 flavors of what can only be

called the Cheese Coursecheesy fun, that is. If youre feelin

bleu you will enjoy our Funtime this summer.

In North Carolina, weve cooked up an adventure that will be sure to make you laugh in queso you are in need of one. The Funtime theme is Seafaring Adventure. Its nautical, but nice. TwoWilds brothers (Willie Partin and Matt Herbster) find

a treasure map, hire a crew, and set sail to find an amazing

treasure. Along the way a sinister pirate (Joe Fant) gets wind

of the plan and sails in with the bries. He steals the map, incites a mutiny, and attempts to take over the ship. However the Captain and the 1st Matt capture the pirate and lead

him to court. (Dont worry though because he is innocent until

provolone guilty). The punishment is handed down, and the queso is closed. The day is savedcue the "con feta!

North Carolinas theme for the week is the Battle for the High Seas! Three teamsthe Emerald Coast Galleons, the Sapphire

Bay Schooners and the Scarlet Cove Clippersall battling

for supremacy on the high seas. These teams battle it out around some crazy but competitive group games. Battleship and All Hands on Deck are just two of the games that you will

enjoy this summer. Of course its not camp without some zany

cabin names that keep right in line with our theme. Will you be in the cabin S.S. Peg Leg or S.S. Scallywag? You will be

awakened on Friday morning with the melodic voices of the Matt and Willie show. Be sure to brush up on your seafaring

triviayou never know what

might be asked that would give you the opportunity to walk away with a free drink to Cool Beans.

Almost 1,000 miles away at

TheWilds of New England

another plot unfolds. The year is 1932. Two rival coffee

producers decide to call a truce for the night and sit down

for a cup of coffee together. This makes the waiters and the owner of

the shop nervous which causes classic, comic fumbling that will keep you in stiches. The

fully costumed, rich, bold production is expresso for you campers! Afterwards, you can go to the Sweet Shoppe for a Kona ice creammocha, no doubt! Wow! Edam

up! So gouda! The theme for the week is Coffee Wars! Dr. Duncan McDonut and Daddy Starbucks schedule the grand

openings of their brand new coffee shops for the very same day. A coffee war is declared. Each entrepreneur unleashes his own strategy to capture the taste buds of Boston's connoisseurs. You will experience a creative, simulated caffeine high that you will never forget.

So dont brie late to sign up. Make sure you get your

parents parmesan (okay, that wasnt too Swiss) and sign

up today for either camp. We know this will be the gratest week of your summercheesiness included!

If a cheese course is being served, it is usually done after the entree and before, or in lieu of, dessert. The cheese course can be as simple as one piece of cheese on its own or as elaborate as a sampling of numerous cheeses

and various accompaniments such as bread, fruit,

and nuts.

6th Course:

The Cheese

Dessert is the final

course and often the one people most look forward to. The dessert course always features

something sweet and is designed to round out a meal and satisfy the

craving for sweetness that many people have after eating savory

foods.

by Willie Partin Program Manager The Wilds

Brevard, North Carolina

www.wilds.org 9

So, what is your favorite dessert? Growing up in Kansas City, we would often visit Tippins, a local establishment, for our desserts. Tippins had an extensive menu, but it was especially known for its pies. They had more pies on their dessert menu than any restaurant. Although there must have been 50 different kinds of pies you could order, my order was the same every single time

blueberry pie la mode! It never got old. While I havent had a Tippins' pie in years, I still enjoy

my desserts. Snicker doodle, oatmeal raisin, and ginger snap cookies; fruit pies (including

strawberry rhubarb); and any kind of ice cream (other than chocolate) are all favorites.

So, what in the world does dessert have to do with camp? The dessert is the anticipated finale to a wonderful meal, bringing the meal to a delicious conclusion. As a child, dessert

was often the only reason I wanted to eat the meal! Dessert is the finishing touch.

For those of us in camp work, the finishing touch to everything we do is to see or

hear of a changed life. The mission statement of The Wilds concludes this way: "so lives can be changed to the glory of God." All that is done

at camp is done so campers lives will be changed. Watching God change a life during a week of camp makes everything

come together! I love walking around outside the Activity Center in the evening at the conclusion

of a service. What a wonderful and fitting end to a day to witness scores of campers being counseled

from the Truth of Gods Word. I love walking around the campsite seeing counselors spending time one-to-

one with a camper in order to share with them the Truth that will change them.

On Saturday morning, after all the campers have left, our staff works hard to clean the campsite. Around 11:15, we gather in the Fireplace Room of

the Lodge for our staff meeting. There are many announcements about

the weekend and the upcoming week of camp, but staff meeting always concludes with opportunity for testimonies from our staff. Several worn out op staff members or counselors will make their way to the front. Their voice is usually hoarse from cheering, and their eyes are obviously sleepy from

the long week, but their countenance beams with joy as they share with everyone

the thrill of watching God change a lifea life rescued, a relationship healed, sin confessed,

commitments made, hope restored. Often these testimonies bring tears to the eyes of all of us, and we praise God for the privilege of being used in a small way so that lives can be changed for His glory. What a beautiful conclusion to the week of camp! Mmmmm,

dessert!

Please pray for the ministry of The Wilds as we seek to give the "Truth of God with the

love of God so lives can be changed to the glory of God."

Dessert is the final

course and often the one people most look forward to. The dessert course always features

something sweet and is designed to round out a meal and satisfy the

craving for sweetness that many people have after eating savory

foods.

7th Course:

Dessert

by Matt Herbster Director The Wilds

Brevard, North Carolina

10 newsletter spring 2015

After Meal

Exercise Program

When should one exercise after a meal? According to mayoclinic.org and livestrong.com, it depends on the size of the meal! Both of these experts agree that if you eat a large meal, you should wait at least 3 hours before working out.

If you have a smaller-sized meal, you

can work out 2 to 3 hours after eating.

Shows how much I knowI always heard

the wait time was only 30 minutes after

a meal!

When should one exercise and grow in their faith after eating up all of the spiritual nourishment from a week of camp? Unlike physical food, one should

begin this process while eating the meal! Yes, I am referring to stopping by The Wilds or TheWilds of New

Englands General Stores before leaving camp to pick up your exercise equipment. That equipment includes the outstanding resources found in those stores. If a trip to one of the camps is not possible, many of the resources

are available through our online store (wilds.org/store).

I have enlisted some help from a few youth pastor friends who for many years have served as personal trainers for scores of young people, helping them grow in their walk with the Lord. Here

are the top resources they have found most helpful:

6 Week Bible Studies by Rand Hummel

Each summer I purchase several copies of the 6 Week Bible studies that were used that week and bring them back to make available to the teens. I like that because we sometimes will continue the study and finish the book together. Last

summer, one of my teens had the idea to start a Bible study. Starting the week after camp, every Monday evening from 6:30-7:30 the teens met at our house and we worked through the Bible study book together. It was a tremendous time together. Youth Pastor, North Carolina

Upon further review I asked General

Store Manager, Ellen, which of Rands 6

week Bible studies are at the top of the list and best-sellers in the summer. They

included: 1 Peter, Joseph, 2 Timothy, Colossians, Philippians, Daniel, Romans 12, James, Titus, and Jonah.

The Rand Hummel TrilogyRand Hummels trilogy (Fear Not, Lest

Ye Fall, and Turn Away Wrath) have been constant resources to my teens through the years. I find that many teens

are faced with decisions about purity,

trusting God, and forgiveness, and these books are been a convenient blessing to reference for discussion, memorization, and/or counsel. Youth Pastor, North Carolina

The Wilds Counseling Resources [counseling CDs]These have been a big help to us as we counsel teens and adults. Some of the topics covered to help church leaders guide young people when they get home include: Bitterness & Anger; Covetousness; Eating Disorders; Immorality; Self-Injury; etc. Youth Pastor, North Carolina

The Emergency Pack

We memorize these verses as a youth group. Youth Pastor, North Carolina

Your Reactions Are Showing

I use this in preparation for our New York Mission Trip. Youth Pastor, Ohio

Tee Shirt

My teens REALLY enjoy their team shirts.

When they wear them to school and a friend asks them about The Wilds, it opens a door to conversation and has ultimately led my teens inviting friends to camp. Youth Pastor, North Carolina

Other helpful resources that benefit

young people:

* The Girl in the Mirror by Michelle Grover

by John BottProgram Marketing Director

The WildsBrevard, North Carolina

www.wilds.org 11

Of course, we prepare for our summer camps very carefully, but were also cookin up a few 4-course meals for fall, winter, and spring. Sometimes

our summer campers ask us, So, what do you all do the rest of the year? Just get ready for next summer? It is an honest enough question, but it does bring a smile to our faces when we think that another 10,000 or so campers

enjoy the campsite in those non-summer months! Running

week and weekend camps (often 2 or 3 at a time), we have

people constantly coming and going out the winding roads that lead to The Wilds. Here is a sample of what we are making preparations for, even while we are busy cookin up a big summer feast.

If you like our summer cooking, come try our non-

summer menu. We think you will find something tasty,

fresh, and healthy. Visit our recently redone website at www.wilds.org.

Off Course:

The Other Menu - FALL -Sportsmans Retreat- WINTER -Music Conference- SPRING -Ladies Retreats

Senior Class Trips- FALL & SPRING -

Christian School RetreatsDeacons/Elders Retreats

Mens RetreatsFather/Son Campouts

Senior Adult ConferencesFamily Camps

- FALL, WINTER, & SPRING -Marriage Conferences

* The Man You Could Be by Paul Downey

* The Purity Principle by Randy Alcorn

* Discover Your Destiny by Cary Schmidt

* Is Your Fruit Sweet or Sour? by Karen Finn

* A Young Womans Guide to Making Right Choices by Elizabeth George

Want to feel better, have more energy, and perhaps even live longer? The health benefits of regular exercise and

physical activity are hard to ignore. And the benefits of exercise are yours for the

taking, regardless of your age, gender,

or physical ability.

However, if you desire to go forward in your Christian life, remember what Paul said to Timothy: exercise thyself unto godliness. Another writer says, There is no such thing as drifting into godliness. Whether it is physical exercise like playing basketball or running on a treadmill, or spiritual exercise, like reading/studying the Bible, prayer, or

meditation, hard work is required! So, why dont you allow us to help you in your pursuit of godliness by stopping by the General Store before you leave camp or visit our website (www.wilds.org/store) and take

advantage of one of these great resources!

12 newsletter spring 2015

by Dick Reid Vice President The Wilds

Taylors, South Carolina

At both The Wilds and The Wilds of New England we know that all of

our youth campers are at a great place (beautiful

campsites) with great friends (and new friends they

have met at camp), eating great food (not typical camp food), while enjoying

great conversation (and doing cabin cheers), and

having a great time (fun with a clear conscience).

We also know that its parents and church staff members who remain holding the bill for the

week. That bill is the product of some very deliberate and difficult decisions that were

made a long while ago. If camp is a yes, that means that other good things of necessity became a no so there could be a camp experience. That may give way to a brief moment of heartburn!

Though a cost is involved, camp is not an expense. Camp is an investment! We

know this is true! It is an investment that very often provides eternal, life-changing

results to young people! Thanks to each of you who are sacrificially investing by providing

what it takes to get young people under the sound of Gods Word. We are doing everything we can

to keep the prices as reasonable as we can. You are doing everything you can to get the young people to an

environment like no other, and we hope you dont suffer indigestion in the process. If you have an appetite to do even a little more, each summer we have young people who have a desire to come to The Wilds and The Wilds of New England, but are financially unable

to do so. If you would love to help one or more of these campers get to a place of Truth and love, we would delight to hear from you and give you further information as to how to help. This experience settles more than the stomach. It has the potential to settle the hearts needs. We TRUST

you will be a part. For more information on how you can help, contact me at our Corporate Office in Taylors, South Carolina.

Post

-Mea

l An

tacid

Post-Meal

Antacid

Maybe you, like me, have been out to dinner and experienced the following:Great Place (highly recommended)

Great Atmosphere (even the flies wear tuxes)

Great Friends (so good to be together)Great Food (they were right about it!)

Great Conversation (need to catch up more often)Great Time (magical)

Then the bill comes to you.Great Amount (hope my face doesnt betray me)

Great Heartburn! (dont feel so well all of a sudden)Where are the Tums?

Can you spare a Prilosec?How about a Pepto-Bismol?

www.wilds.org 13

AItems received:2 Air Hoses Bunn Airport Coffee Brewer Cool Beans EquipmentEntry Mat 2 Fall Protection Hardware Sets 5 Fall Protection Harnesses 1 Fall Protection RopeOffice Chair 1 Pulse Oximeter

Needs: Battery Lantern (48) - $5 each Bow Wrench Deck Tool - $75 Carpet/Floor Blower (2) - $100 each

Chainsaw Chaps - $70 Commercial Vacuum Cleaner - $265 DeWalt 18-volt WRP Battery (4) - $65 each Helmet for Working at Heights (2) - $60 each Infra-red Thermometer (2) - $90 each Kestrel Portable Wind Meter - $100 Leather Gloves (10 pairs) - $20/pair Lifeguard Rescue Tube (4) - $50 each Lightning Detector - $260 Mulch Fork (3) - $100 each Pump-up Sprayer (3) - $30 Each Rafting Boots (20 pairs) - $30/pair Tree Rope Storage Bag (4) - $25 each Tree Throw Rope (2) - $25 each

N Items received:2 Safety Fence Tops 2 Shovels

Needs: 12 Gauge Extension Cord (4) - $25 each Chainsaw Blade (4) - $30 each Microphone (5) - $175 each Office Chair - $250 Office Copier - $289 12" Saw Blade (2) - $45 each

I want to help A or N

Enclosed is a gift toward the cost of the indicated need.

Rev./Dr.Mr./Mrs./Miss _____________________________________

Address _________________________________________

City _______________________ State ____ Zip _________

Mail to: The Wilds PO Box 509 Taylors, SC 29687-0009

Needs C

orner

The

www.wilds.org 13

The Resurrection of Jesus Christ changed everything! Truly, the Resurrection is the cornerstone of the gospel message. God wants His children to live like who they are: ones who are risen with Christ and are alive from the dead. This CD features vocal ensembles and includes several vocal solos and duets.

TWS1560 .................................$1395

14 newsletter spring 2015

CAREERS:Daniel (09,10,11,12) and Kristi [Cannon] Fleming (08,09,10,11,12) were married on 7/19/14. They live

in Virginia, where Kristi is a pediatric nurse and Daniel works in the loan servicing department of a credit union. They are both actively involved in their church.

WEDDINGS:Emilie Horton (14) and Ryan Crist (12,13,14), 12/20/14.

Katrina Reed (10,12-14) and Nate Krug (08,09,10,11,13-14), 9/26/14.

Jennifer Luttrell (08-14) and Daniel Lambert, 10/25/14.

Meagan Stowe (02,03,04,05,06,08,09,10,11,12,13,14) and Timothy Snyder, 12/27/14.

BIRTHS:Jon (03) and Sarah [Biddle] Abbott (01,02,03), Olivia Jane, 11/16/14.

Joel and Megan [McAdams] Albright (01,02,03,04), Sadie Morgan, 1/24/15.

Brett (03,04,05,06,07-08) and Elisabeth [Mohler] Castelloe (03,04,05,06-07), Gabriel Stephen, 7/17/14.

Kevin (07,08-10) and Sarah [Thompson] Gillenwater (05,06,07,08,09), Evelyn Mae, 10/1/14.

Brandon (08,11-14) and Jessica [Brooks] Hamilton (06,07,08,09,10,11,12), Alaina Michelle, 2/5/15.

Ransom and Hannah [Thompson] Love (10,11), Camden James, 11/18/14.

Gary and Marissa [Bear] Michel (01,02), Ella May, 8/21/14.

Andy (06) and Nikita [Railing] Sutton (07), Peter Caleb, 12/5/14.

Former Staff, help keep us updated on your career moves, marriage, and children! Send announcements to: The Wilds, Where Are They Now?PO Box 509Taylors, SC 29687-0009or e-mail formerstaff@wilds.org.

where are they

C.A.M.P. - Camp Apprenticeship and Ministry Practicum. C.A.M.P. is designed

to give young adults who are college age or recent college graduates the true camp experience. The C.A.M.P. program gives a broad ministry experience

that will be helpful in future occupations. Through the unique benefits of

camping, these individuals develop their interpersonal skills, leadership qualities, and philosophy of Biblical ministry. Our intent is to equip them to become more grounded in the Bible and versatile in ministry.

C.A.M.

P.CA

MP AP

PREN

TICES

HIP AN

D MINI

STRY

PRAC

TICUM

2014-2015 ParticipantsFront Row: David Shrader-Tullahoma,

TN; Caleb Fordham-Daleville, AL;

Kris Wilder-Grayson, KY; Tom Burns-

Clayton, NC; Jacob Fafard-Agawam,

MA; Bethany Woodfin-Wetumpka, AL;

Katelyn Hucks-Smoaks, SC; Candace

Montgomery-Springfield, GA; Brooke

Montgomery-Springfield, GA; Ashley

Hunt-Simpsonville, SC

Back Row: Jordan Corriveau-Dayton,

OH; Jessie Moore-Six Mile, SC; Ethan

Ellison-Jacksonville, NC; Jason Clark-

Decatur, AL; Nicky Stoey-Waterfall,

PA; Leslie Haynes-Oxford, AL; Rachel

Smitley-Greer, SC; Joanne Rieger-Grand

Rapids, MI; Rachael Pierce-Apex, NC

www.wilds.org 15

OWEN BLACKWOOD Given by: Mr. & Mrs. William ShifflettJARVIS BRENNEMAN Given by: Mrs. Trudy FremontGROVER DUCK DAVENPORT Given by: Mr. & Mrs. Ken BallJOSIAH HORKAVY Given by: Mr. & Mrs. Ken Jensen Mr. & Mrs. Raymond Mills Mr. & Mrs. Ronald Pashby The Alan Robinson FamilyREGINA HOWARD Given by: Mr. & Mrs. J.Edgar GambleWAYNE LUNDVALL Given by: Mr. & Mrs. Doug GorslineJERRY MORRIS Given by: Mr. & Mrs. Paul WestLUCAS NICHOLS Given by: Mr. & Mrs. John ByersRONNIE PITTMAN Given by: Mrs. Brenda PittmanRALPH PORTER Given by: Mr. & Mrs. Doug GorslineJUSTIN JOHN RIDLEY Given by: Mr. Carl BooneELMER RUMMINGER Given by: Mr. & Mrs. Phil Adams Mr. & Mrs. Monty DuPuy Mr. & Mrs. Eric Elstro Mrs. Trudy Fremont Mr. & Mrs. Don Gorsline Mr. & Mrs. Doug Gorsline Tiffany McGee Mary Eleanor, Emile, Patricia Roth Mr. & Mrs. William Sponseller Mr. & Mrs. Paul Wickensimer Mr. & Mrs. Gary Williams Willson, Jones, Carter, & Baxley, P.A., Greenville, SCLANA M. SMITH Given by: Mr. Tim SmithANN STONER Given by: Pastor & Mrs. Dave Hine Beth Trotter

PAULINE STONER Given by: Mr. & Mrs. Rick StonerDR. BEN STROHBEHN Given by: Mr. & Mrs. Donald Berkey Bob Jones University, Greenville, SC Mr. & Mrs. Brad Buck Shirley Capon Pastor & Mrs. Kelly Clemens Mr. & Mrs. Robert Dye Mr. & Mrs. Terry Huff Mr. & Mrs. Larry Grabill Mr. & Mrs. Donald Harbaugh Cpt. & Mrs. Joe Henderson Mr. & Mrs. Steven Kurtz Mr. & Mrs. Cal Mair Suzanne Miller Eva Nygaard Mr. & Mrs. Darrel Posegate Mr. Paul Schmucker Mr. & Mrs. Michael Sellman Mr. & Mrs. Ed Stoddard Mr. & Mrs. Rick Stoner Mrs. Lorraine Strohbehn Mr. & Mrs. Bill Thorsen Mr. & Mrs. Rick WeedJANET THOMPSON Given by: Mr. Brinkley Roberson Mr. & Mrs. Ward TerrillLERA B. WILKIE Given by: Mr. Michael WilkieJACK WILLIAMS Given by: Mr. & Mrs. Doug GorslineROBERT WORTHINGTON Given by: Mr. & Mrs. Ted Adams Mr. & Mrs. Frank Blest The Conway, Granger, & Ziegelhofer Families Mr. Richard Kellam Mr. & Mrs. Robert Steffan

GIFTS GIVEN IN HONOR OFTERRI BLACKWOOD Given by: Mr. & Mrs. William ShifflettNANCY LAIDLAWBENJAMIN, ELISSA, & CALEB SCHMID Given by: Mr. & Mrs. Ed ConradLYNNE TOTH Given by: Mrs. Sarah McCall

Honor a loved one or friend with a Living Memorial gift to The Wilds.

In Memory Of:Rev./Dr./Mr./Mrs./Miss ________________________________________________________Please send card to:Rev./Dr./Mr./Mrs./Miss _______________________________________________________Address ____________________________________________________________________City ____________________________________________State _______Zip ______________Given by:Rev./Dr./Mr./Mrs./Miss ________________________________________________________Address _____________________________________________________________________City ____________________________________________State ______ Zip ______________Phone _______________________________________________________________________

The Wilds Living Memorials PO Box 509 Taylors, SC 29687-0009

Memorial gifts received as of March 15, 2015

MEMORIALSLIVING

Staff News:TJ & Michelle Adams are happy to announce the arrival of their son. Thomas Jeffrey (Trey) Adams, III was

born on February 17, 2015, at 1:21 pm.

He was 7 pounds 10 ounces and 20

inches long.

Shawn & Susanna Alexander are happy to announce the arrival of their daughter, Piper Rachelle. She was born on February 10, 2015, weighed

7 pounds 10 ounces, and was 20

inches long.

Andy & Carrie Anglea are happy to announce the arrival of their son, Mark

Elliott. He was born on December 31,

2014, weighed 7 pounds 5 ounces,

and was 20 inches long.

Contracted Staff:Front Row: Holly Brodwater-Jane Lew,

WV-female intern supervisor; Elizabeth

Carrick-Kingsport, TN-kitchen staff

Back Row: Titus Hopper-Valley Center,

KS-construction; Chip Channel-

Winchester, VA-landscape; Jai Johnston-

Jacksonville, NC-videographer/media

NON-PROFIT ORG.U.S. POSTAGE

PAIDGREENVILLE, SCPERMIT NO. 687

Fall 2012

PO Box 509Taylors, SC 29687-0009

Address Service Requested

AAvailable Weeks for Teens and Juniors

June 1-6, June 8-13, August 3-8For more information call (864) 331-3286 or e-mail tw.summer.camps@wilds.org.

You can also register online at www.wilds.org/register.

NN

Available WeeksJuniors: June 15-20, June 29- July 4

Teens: June 22-27, July 20-25, July 27- August 1, August 3-8, August 10-15

For more information call (603) 529-0001 or e-mail twne.summer.camps@wilds.org.

You can also register online at www.wilds.org/register.