FPYC Blog

Tour de Togo Online

2008-10-27T10:39:00.000-07:00

PLease visit this link for all things Tour de Togo (TdT)

2008-09-08T19:31:00.000-07:00

Hey guys,

First (ever) FPYC Mountain Bike WeekendSeptember 26-28

I've heard from some of you - some can come / others sending regrets.

Please let me know your ententions!

Here's a link to the Tentative Agenda http://www.fpyc.org/mtb-weekend.html

Some people will make it in later Friday evening, so we're not planning aserved meal then - plan accordingly. Maybe Effie? At this point, bring a little money for Dinner Saturday evening, and a smalldonation for camp. Not sure what our food costs will be like as this is kindof a first try for me planning one of these. ~$25

Don't forget: Helmet, riding garb, glasses, water bottles, etc. Hopefully the bugs will be kaput and the fall colors ubber awesome.

Thanks!

-Kent651-734-0521 (If you have any questions.)

Planned activities:

a.. Rake and Ride - trail building.

b.. Bike the Hike

c.. Tune-ups

d.. Fellowship

e.. Thistledew Trail exploration

TDT 2008 and 2009 Preview

2008-08-17T20:10:00.000-07:00

TDT08 – Sweeeeet… and Sour
The tour is over and now camp is over too. As the girls reconnect at Super Nanza this weekend, I’ve decided it’s time to get a little blurb out there about how the tour went this year. Well,… awful and great. So, let’s talk about next year. Ok, ok stay tuned for talk of TdT09.

I say awful as we just didn’t see the massive turnout we’ve coming to expect each year. We fell short of our rider goal and short of last year’s tour size. In fact, you have to go back to the 2000 tour to find a pack so small. We only had four rookies (I’m blaming the rookies here). So we’re really going to have to turn up the volume for next year.

I say great because for a tour so small in riders, only one other tour in our 17 year history has raised more funds for Flaming Pine. Yep, we rolled up over 14 thousand for the camp in total pledges. Even when we calculate in the expenses of putting on the tour, we were blessed with an awesome result. Leading the way were the usual suspects, Allen Keller, Stan Due, Linda Barnacle, and Robert Pappas. Robert brought in over 45 hundred just him. Yikes.

I say awful as we had our first broken bone of the tour, ever. Stan Due shouldered into a ditch and the ditch won - Broken Clavicle, a.k.a. collar bone. This is a painful injury which takes a long time to heal so, no pats on the back or hardy hand shakes for Stan for the time being. Talked to him tonight and he says he’s about 50% back.

I say great because we put on a really quality event with lots of rider goodies and we didn’t break the bank. Only 6% of tour proceeds went toward expenses. Very few charity bicycle events can make that claim. And even with such a slim margin we offered riders a lot of value for their efforts, including a full custom cycling jersey.

We had lots of support of the corporate variety too. Trader Joes gave us hundreds of dollars in bananas, bars, and bottled water. Dunn Brothers sent coffee and cash. PowerBar put their top-notch performance eats and drink in our support vehicles. Panera Bread Co. of Woodbury offered five dozen fresh hot bagels to kick things off. The Deacons of the Woodbury church of Christ bought space on our jersey and put Ephesians 2:10 on our shoulders. Thanks also to Target Greatland of Woodbury for the $25 gift card and Penn Cycle for the pack of 15% off coupons (I still have some).

Our support drivers were really great this year. So great we married one of them off! Dawn Eichers, Bill Barnacle, Joanne Nading, and Crystal Parks (the bride driver) did an outstanding job keeping our bottles filled, our spirits up, and everyone heading in the right direction.

Thanks to all the husbands, wives, and families who let us do this intensely fun event and especially my wife who puts up with my constant musing over each little detail.

Thanks finally and above all to God our Father, who gave us life and breath and wheels.

-Kent

Tour Jerseys Available
There’s still time to help Camp though the 08 tour. We have about a dozen Cycling Jerseys left. We want to turn them into cash for camp, so the entire $40 price goes 100% directly to FPYC. They are good looking and top-shelf bicycling quality with 3 pockets in the back and a ¾ length hidden zipper in the front. Sizes are a bit limited so please drop me an email soon.

2009
Interested in steering the entire tour in a new direction? We’re thinking ahead to next year and that thinking is outside the box. There’s a SURVEY underway which is revealing some interesting ideas on the route for next year. Get a map
and dream with us. You don’t have to be a tour veteran to participate – we want to hear from next year’s rookies too.

Tour De Togo Survey

2008-08-04T05:40:00.000-07:00

Hey All,

Have a little fun and dream about a way cool route for the 2009 tour. Take the SURVEY and put your spin on the tour for next year.

Thanks so much!

-Kent

PS: Yes, we still have some Jerseys to sell.

A Heartfelt plea for the Tour De Togo

2008-07-10T07:04:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone,
Just over two weeks to go:
a.. We are running way behind where we want to be for riders.
a.. Please re- re- double your efforts to find more Riders.
a.. The feast is ready, go out in the alleys and back-roads and find moreguests!
Thanks so much!

-Kent

Teachers Needed

2008-07-05T20:12:00.001-07:00

Brett Osborne is looking for a few more teachers for 2nd Family camp...namely cradle roll, 2's and 3's and 4-6th grade. Please email him at brettduluth@aol.com or call 218-724-5341 if interested. Thanks!

Tour De Togo 2008

2008-04-12T13:13:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone,

As we struggle to rid ourselves of snow and ice and all things wintry, it's exciting to start thinking about summer, and when it comes to summer, few things are as exciting as the Tour de Togo Benefit Bicycle Ride.

You should try it this year.

No really, hear me out. This event has a great purpose and is truly doable for most anyone who puts their mind to it. It's no race, just a fun tour with friends. A tour means seeing new things and new places. Besides the scenery, there's seeing for yourself what you can accomplish. We've had very young riders do this distance, and very old as well - both amaze us and remind us how much God can do through us if we'll let Him talk us into it.

The funds we raise for Flaming Pine Youth Camp will be used to teach children about Jesus. The camp is so far away from the big city - it's just the right place to push aside the cares of our modern age and focus on what God has done. Riding to camp while helping the good mission of FPYC is just a side benefit - gravy.

And if that weren't enough, riding for and giving to the camp comes with such additional blessings. Great fellowship, ample food, support, personal challenge, encouragement, even fun and prizes.

Mark July 25, 26, and 27 on your calendars right now!

Online registration has now been opened - CLICK HERE!

An exclusive for TDT2008 - a top-secret full custom Rider's Jersey. Believe me, it looks awesome. If you remember 2004's jersey, I think this one's even better. I am seeking corporate sponsorships so if you have someone in mind, please let me know. In fact, Mark Spoto's Dunn Bros Coffee shop (Woodbury) has signed on as a sponsor. Be sure and thank him and get a great cup of coffee while you're there. I am in talks with other potential sponsors, so stay tuned.

To encourage new riders, the tour will once again offer gifts of appreciation to those who recruit new riders. We had 14 rookies last year - ah the fun we had with Pam and Billy. The tour is always looking for new people to give it a try. We get so many back year after year - it really is the way to grow the tour.

Please, feel free to contact me with questions. I can be even more convincing in person.

-Kent
651-734-0521

Bible Bowl 2008

2008-01-19T14:18:00.001-08:00

Minnesota Bible Bowl 2008

The Woodbury congregation would like to invite all to compete in the 2008 Bible Bowl to be held, Lord willing, at the Woodbury building on Saturday April 12th.

Fellowship begins at 8:00 a.m. with donuts and Coffee.

Competition starts at 9:00 a.m.

The Gospel of Mark will be our text. Questions will be worded using the NIV.

We hope to once again award the winning team members in Youth, Junior, and Senior divisions with FPYC Campership Certificates valued at $100 each.

We have shortened the study time and chosen a manageable text in hopes of encouraging wider participation at all age levels. We hope to have some new and interesting question formats and even some fun audience participation elements.

We will again be making the John Kimbrough study guides available to interested teams. These study guides supply many questions to sharpen Bible knowledge - It makes coaching a team just that much easier and saves a lot of time.

For those traveling greater distances, we can arrange for Friday evening accommodations - please let us know your needs in this area.

Please send ideas that you feel would make Bible Bowl more exciting, valuable, and enduring as a tool in God's hands.

Please! We need to know of your interest to prepare and send teams. In recent years, there has been a gradual decline in the number of teams and spectators. We fear that without your congregation's involvement, Bible Bowl will not continue as a special annual event that challenges young and old to dig into God's word and demonstrate knowledge of the scriptures.

We need to hear from you by February 1st.

Will your congregation be represented by at least one team? More?

It is our intent to put together a quality event and we do want to see Bible Bowl continue well into the future. This could be a pivotal year for this event. We need your teams and your commitment to come to help the Minnesota Bible Bowl thrive.

More information will be coming soon with many details concerning team composition, rules of play, bracket format, scoring, and much more.

Please! Encourage us with word of your interest and anticipation for Bible Bowl 2008.

Thanks much,

Kent Davidson
Bible Bowl Guy
651-734-0521

Brenda Williams
Bible Bowl Gal
866-406-7414
651-208-0090

FPYC Auction Sets Record!

2008-01-19T14:14:00.000-08:00

Cash and checks collected for food, rolls, and auction items: $14,333
Yet to be paid: $825
Software donated to sell on eBay: $3400

Grand total: $18,558

What a great response this year from the supporters of camp. What a
blessing! Thanks for all your effort Paul, Brett, and Barry (and a lot
of others).

2008-01-19T10:46:00.000-08:00

Many of you know Mike Newman from Togo. As a refresher, he is the camp's cement "guy". Mike has done the cement work for the girls' cabins, the lodge, the boiler building, the front addition to the caretaker's house, the shop, the shower house, and various cement slabs and repairs around camp. Always at a very fair price, because of the serving that is done here. He has also just left his equipment here for our use at different times. Mike stopped in just before Christmas to
tell us about his granddaughter.

Jolee is six. She has been diagnosed with rhabdomyomassarcoma, a cancer that has allowed a fast-growing tumor to take over her entire right eyelid. She has started 26 weeks of chemotherapy at St. Mary's in Duluth and in March, she will begin radiation therapy every day in Duluth for 5 weeks. She lives in Hibbing with her parents and 4 year-old twin brothers. In order bring Jolee to Duluth every day, her
father has taken all his sick days, vacations, and his fellow workers have donated theirs.

There is going to be a benefit raffle in Hibbing on the 19th of January to help defray the growing costs. They are asking for donated items for the raffle. We realize that it would be hard for anyone, or any church, to bring an item for the raffle. But as an outreach to the Flaming Pine
Youth Camp community would anyone or group be interested in donating funds? It could be written to FPYC, then in turn sent on to the family as one donation.

Thank you,

-Donald & Rebecca Bartch

[I believe the Northern Lights congregation is hosting a "SweetHeart Dinner" on
February 9th, 6 pm at their building with all proceeds to support the Howell
family with medical expenses. For more information call 763-494-4224 -
register by February 6th.]

Auction Is ON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-11-14T20:47:00.000-08:00

Hey! The big Camp Auction is coming soon! Saturday November 17th, 5:30 pm at the Woodbury church of Christ.

This is no garage sale or mere cookie bake. This fun evening has so much packed into a nicely wrapped pre-Christmas present. There's a terrific banquet prepared for us. I hear this year the theme is Wizard of Oz. I think Linda Gonzalez is re-living her high-school prom days as she goes all-out in achieving just the right atmosphere.

If the dining experience wasn't enough, there's the rich fellowship. We get to see people we might otherwise see only once or twice a year. Being there also gives you a special opportunity to hear how the camp is doing, what are the next big announcements, and putting your influences on the Board of Trustees. Each year five individuals are added to the Board as the three year term of five present Board members ends.

Then there's the auction itself. There's something for everyone, literally. If the top-notch assortment of goods and services isn't your thing, well at least come for the Butter Horn Crescent Rolls or Gene's Wisconsin Cheese. Or just to hear Gene tell it.

The list for this year's event isn't out (to my knowledge) so I can only remind you of what kinds of things have been offered in other years and suggest that more of the same will be available the 17th.

* The Quilt - "My favorite one so far." Dawn Eichers, speaking of
the 2007 Quilt.

* Framed Artwork and Photography - there's some awesome talent
represented.

* Sporting event tickets, and Sports Memorabilia.

* The Carved Moose (let's hope another is in the hunt.)

* A decked-out Potato Gun, with ammo.

* Hand made Scarves and other apparel.

* Themed baskets - like the Movie Night basket, or the Pamper Mom
basket.

* All kinds of baked goods, not the least of which Diane's Monkey
Bread.

* Jewelry, electronics, etc., etc.

Entertainment and Services too.

* The Tae Dinner for Six (or 8) put on by the Countryman family.

* The St Croix Boat Outing by the McHans.

* Donated Hours of Labor by the Urban Ministry Guys.

* Progressive Dinner Tour of Woodbury by Bicycle.

* Bicycle Tune ups.

I'm not saying all the stuff listed above will be there, most will; but I've only mentioned a hand full of items. Much more will be there. Some items will be auctioned silently. Others will get the Gene treatment. Gene Olsen is a real live auctioneer. Don't let the Packers jersey throw you off - he's a trained profession. This part of the auction is anything but silent - Fun Yes, quiet No!

I've always thought the auction is the like the crazy-campfire of FPYC Fund raising events. Paul's move from Barn cleaning to hosting thisevent was sheer brilliance. Come have some great fun with us. Thanks.

5:30 pm Saturday, November 17th at the Woodbury building.

Green Side Up

2007-11-13T20:59:00.000-08:00

When it's time for an announcement at Camp, this odd phrase has the power to quiet the masses so the news gets out. So, it's the perfect name for the new FPYC Email Subscription service.

Get on our email distribution list and receive notice when news and announcements are posted to the Camp BLOG or when a new feature is added to the Camp web site.

We promise to email wisely and sparingly.

Stay in the loop: Sign up now!

Thanks!

Our hosting service provides this functionality. If at any time you would prefer not to receive emails from GreenSideUp, the link above or a link contained in every GreenSideUp email allows for Un-Subscribing from the email list.

2008: Packing the Sessions

2007-10-26T06:19:00.000-07:00

What would camp be like if the session was packed with kids? I mean MAX'd OUT!
The singing would be awesome! It would be all that makes camp fun, just more
of it.

First off, how many is the MAX? Well, Let's say the camp hires an extra guy
counselor and an extra girl counselor, so five guys and five girls. If we draw
the line at 12 campers in each cabin than we'd full at 60 guys and 60 girls.
120 campers.

It's been a long time since we got even close to that, so why would we plan to
Max out in 2008?

Are you sitting down? Maybe lying down would be safer still. Here's the
crazy-campfire idea that someone on the Board of Trustees threw down: "For 2008
only, if an FPYC kid invites a new cabin-age camper to try a session at FPYC,
that first-time camper will receive one session of camp FREE." Yep, invite a
2008 newbie to Flaming Pine, and the Rookie gets the session for Free.

Yes, that includes the much coveted Senior Session, a two week gift. Sure,
they would still pay for canteen, craft stuff, and the bus ride if needed, but
hey hey! What a deal! What a great way to get new friends to try FPYC.

So, it's perfectly reasonable to expect that we WILL fill up the sessions,
starting with Senior Week. What happens when we reach 60 guys/60 girls? Umm,
we hit a [good] problem we've never had. We start a stand-by list or suggest
an alternate session. You may be wondering, (that voice screaming inside your
head), "How do I make sure me and my friends have a spot reserved at our
favorite session?"

Register early. You don't have to wait until SpiritFest when the 2008
Registration Forms are on hand. Download a Registration Form now from the web,
one for you and one for your never-been-to-camp homie. Fill them out and send
them in now, even today.

Sure - this is worth getting excited about! Pack your Session!

by: Kent Davidson

Be Careful Little Feet Where You Go...

2007-10-12T18:27:00.000-07:00

Be careful little feet where you go...

The directors at camp are putting their foot down (in a manner of speaking). What’s got them stomping? Feet injuries. Campers are coming to FPYC thinking that flip flops are going to be the only shoe they’ll need. Going to play multi-ball soccer – “Going for my flip flops”. Time for the Hike – “Time to grab my flip flops”. Working in the kitchen – “Flip flops work for me”.

Sorry! No! Wrong! Open-toed shoes cannot be worn in the Kitchen area. That’s the law of the land in Minnesota. For sports and the hike – flip flops just don’t get the job done. Kids are getting their feet hurt and it’s slowing them down and effecting the camp sessions. Not to mention the icky job the camp nurse gets. I’ll spare you the details – not a pretty picture.

Here’s where the rubber meets the road, open-toed shoes can only be worn to and from swim period, and to and from the shower house. That’s it. This applies to all campers no matter how big or little your feet. Come prepared to enjoy camp fully – bring the shoes you’ll need to keep up.

Ephesians 6:15

A Boy Scout's Account

2007-09-30T14:38:00.000-07:00

Recently the camp received a really cool letter and thought you'd enjoy it too:

I came across your web site a little while ago and I was very interested
because my two brothers and I went and helped build this camp from the 1950 '
to 1961 for me. I joined the Navy in April 1962.

The camp was our Boy Scout Camp Troop 170 Camp Flaming Pines on Mirror Lake,
our head Scoutmaster was Bill and his brother Ed Souder. The Rovick's (the
founder of Edina Realty) were in our troop and they had Bill and Ed Souder as
some the first agents of Edina Realty. One worked in town selling real estate
and the other was with us. We went to camping season ever year like this.

a.. 2 weeks woodcutting to cut as season until winter then we sold it door to door in the Twin Cities.

b.. 2 weeks construction building roads, blasting stumps, making and pouring concrete, building buildings which were all done with scout labor.

c.. 2 weeks regular camp for merit badges, carving totem poles, etc.

d.. 2 weeks building our canoe base (a smaller version of the old log lodge close to the lake) on Lac La Croix on Canadian side of the Dawson Portage.

e.. 4 week canoe trip in the Quetico Provincial Park. Then back home to school again in the fall.

I would like to know more about the present camp and your fund raising efforts.

I read you most recent newsletter about the log lodge by the lake. I guess the one that we built in the 50's did not last.

If you have a fund raising dinner down here I would love to go to one and hear more about how you are bringing children to Christ. I am involved in Fishersofmenclub.org and some other local fund raisers to bring Christ to kids down here.

If there is a way to put me on your newsletter mailing list I would appreciate it.

Warmest regards,

Bill Dobbins, ABR, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, NHSS
Edina Realty
The Dobbins Group

FPYC Cookbook Fund Raiser

2007-09-30T14:33:00.000-07:00

Help camp and get ideas for dinner with this newly published cookbook.

Some of these recipes have been like "ancient Chinese secrets" since the camp began 30+ years ago. Cooks and cook's Helpers have a hand in this kitchen resource. The recipes, 150 of them, have been family-sized for home use.

a.. Banana Nut Bread
b.. Chicken Tortilla Hot Dish
c.. Hamburger Stroganoff
d.. Oatmeal Cake and Topping
e.. Turkey Noodle Casserole
f.. Chocolate Buttermilk sheet cake
g.. and many, many more

In addition to tasty dishes, this book has many stories and yarns about being a cook, back in the day. Some are really funny, some offer little known historical insights, all of them remind us of how much love has gone, and goes into putting good food on the table for campers big and small.

$30.00 Each

All proceeds to support FPYC. Payment reserves your copy.

Contact Dale Ogren or Barb
Waletzko.

OR order Online at: Flaming Pine Favorites

Camp Reunion - Awesome!!!

2007-08-14T11:11:00.000-07:00

The 2007 FPYC reunion was wonderful. It was so good to come together for thei event. Thanks to Mandy Okeson for making it all happen. Thansk to God for there even being a reason to get together.

This photo of the sunrise coming up over the lodge was a good metaphor, I think, of the camp breaking into a new day.

I recall Jesus saying, "I am making everythin new." This is perhaps a little tiny particle of how Jesus is making everything new. Certainly Jesus had an eternal perspective when he said, this but I am sure that the process has, in some way, already begun.

Camp Baptism

2007-07-28T19:53:00.000-07:00

Baptisms at camp NEVER get old. It is possible that I have personally witnessed 50 baptisms at camp in my time spent there. They are all special.

Bapstism is a foreshadow of things to come. It is ripe with meaning and symbolism. It is a beautiful cleansing, a bold declaration, a promise for the future.

Camp Reunion

2007-07-17T07:21:00.000-07:00

It is upon - the Flaming Pine Youth Camp Reunion.

This is going to be fabulous.

Hope to see you there.

Tour De Togo 2007

2007-06-23T15:18:00.000-07:00

Tour de Togo 2007

Before Lance and Greg came along, we were going great distances for FPYC. This is our 17th year! Now you can too! And here's why. In fact, here's the top ten reasons to join the Tour de Togo.

10. Find friends who can recite the entire script of The Princess Bride.

9. Prove that all things are possible thru Him who strengthens.

8. See Brothers and Sisters in Christ in a whole new sweaty way.

7. Create your own signature color of Gatorade energy drink.

6. Leave a gear-laden support vehicle in the dust.

5. Because biking 200 miles in 2 ½ days makes a good 'weak end'.

4. Where else will you hear Pizza and Bicycle Bingo in the same breath?

3. Make your teen appreciate when they get to use the car.

2. See how easy it is to win The Lost Lamb Award. "Left, no Right!"

1. Three-day, Guilt-free, Carbo-loading, Calorie-fest!

Young Peace

2007-05-13T21:47:00.000-07:00

A child's peace in an aging body
Is beauty unfolding in grace;

After deadlines and obligations have worn;
After storms and losses have raged;
After the violence of fears
And oceans of tears
Take their toll in what we call age;

After drooping and sagging sets in;
After creaking and catching begins;
After the body of aches
And limbs full of shakes
Send wrinkles all over the skin;

If anything remains in the soul;
If anything fills the Hole;
If there's meaning in old bones
And slow flesh that groans
It's peace that does not grow old.

Story Yourself

2007-05-07T08:38:00.000-07:00

Almost every story ever known was lived but once and forgotten forever. Most stories are never recorded, never retold. Most stories are not thought of for one single moment after they were lived.

Stories are the social memory of a family, a group, a nation. Stories are meant to be lived once, but told many times. Stories can be entertaining, but to degrade a story to entertainment is to miss the meaning stories bring to our lives. We are our stories.

There is no meaning to our lives without a story to fill the flesh. If we forget our stories, we forget ourselves. When our story is forgotten, or worse, when a story is forced on us and we accept it, we have failed to fulfill the one goal in life we were meant to accomplish - to be human.

Without stories of healing, we will be sick. Without stories of redemption, we will be lost. Without stories of love, we will be meaningless. Without stories of forgiveness, we will be unreconciled. Without stories of faith, we will be hopeless. Without stories of courage, we will exist in fear.

We must nurture our stories and find a way to tell, write, paint, and dance their meaning so we do not forget whatever it was that was important enough to live in the first place.

We must story our greatest moments. We must story our greatest humiliations. We must story all that matters. We must gather this memory and pass it on to generations who have yet to remember anything. Our stories are our greatest gift to give. They are our truth.

Play

2007-02-17T16:22:00.000-08:00

You can learn more about a person in a few minutes of play than you can learn about that person from a life time of work.

People should play. Children know this inherently. They enjoy playing, they learn best while playing, and they develop healthy relationships and leadership skills while playing. It is one of the best things a child can do.

It is also one of the best things adults can do. Hey grown ups, let's play!!!

Be Like A Child

2007-01-27T18:18:00.000-08:00

Children are born innocant and pure. It is nothing short of miraculous to witness the beautiful honesty and willingness of a child. Their faith and trust is so precious. Wouldn't it be nice to bottle it up in our youth and then release it as needed in our adult life?

But we can't. Sometimes it seems like growing up is this relentless process of losing our innocence. We gain experience, get crushed by the cruelty of the world, perhaps hand out some cruelty of or own - we become less of a person.

The thing about innocence is that once it is gone, it cannot be regained.

Or can it?

When Jesus died and was raised, He began a redemption process that is in effect to this day. A great reversal is in motion. Although our bodies have limited and diminishing strength, something special and regenerative is happening in our spirits. In our spirits we are actually growing young.

Boys just want to have fun

2007-01-15T14:59:00.000-08:00

Boys like to have adventures. They like to take risks and figure things out by doing. Camp is great place for boys.

What is more adventurous than lakes and forests and critters?

We'd be fools to think that the things that lit up a boy's imagination 50 years ago are any different today. Boys will try so hard to tell us something that has always been true, but is novel and must be spoke in their voices. We must be there to listen.

An unheard boy is a danger to the world. We must listen to boys. A heard boy is a blessing to the world. It is our choice what will happen with boys.

The Bid is...

2007-01-04T18:21:00.000-08:00

Jill Tarnowski, caught in the bidding craze, inadvertantly bids on half the cheese in Wisconsin.

Loyalty. Seriously, she's never going to eat all that cheese. Way to go Jill.

Magic Bartch

2007-01-01T19:26:00.000-08:00

Magic Johnson worked wonders on the basketball court. He could do anything with the basketball.

Well, Flaming Pine Youth Camp has its own magic man. Our care taker, Don Bartch, manages the camp ground and loves to drive large equipment.

Need it fixed? Don's your man. Need to know where something is? Ask Don. Need something made out of plastic? Yep, Don can do it.

Smiles and Hope on the Horizon

2006-12-28T20:14:00.000-08:00

If there is one thing camp has produced in great abundance over the years it is smiles. Happiness is contagious at camp.

I remember years I longed for camp. I lasted through the agony of middle school just for a taste of camp. There were times when I knew I could make it because camp was on the horizon.

Sometimes happiness on the horizon draws one through that which is unbearable. Hope out ahead makes life worth living.

The hope that camp is coming is a metaphor of the hope we have in Heaven. Knowing what's coming, ultimately, makes what's coming between now adn then worth the effort.

Arise, My Love

2006-12-20T19:07:00.000-08:00

Baptism is such a beautiful thing.

When one arises from the waters, it is a person rising from the dead. It is becoming one with Jesus. It is a new beginning.

I have seen tons of baptisms in Mirror Lake. Every single one of them is beautiful, special, unique.

Anyone out there got a Mirror Lake baptism story?

Summer Beauty in December

2006-12-17T18:36:00.000-08:00

Children Matter

2006-12-12T19:53:00.000-08:00

At Flaming Pine Youth Camp, children matter. It is the reason for the very existence for camp.

Children add to the beauty of the world. Their innocence, their sense of wonder, their unawareness to how horrible this world can be is what brings grown ups hope when we look at them.

We are to become like childen. Though we become initiated into sin, and darkness, and doubt, we can reclaim, or at least get a small hint into that childness.

We must strive to be like children as we grow older.

All Camp Reunion

2006-12-10T20:11:00.000-08:00

Flaming Pine Youth Camp
All- Camp Reunion
July 20-22, 2007

Join us for an unforgettable weekend! The first All - Camp Reunion is an opportunity to reconnect with people from around the country who have touched our lives through this “Northern Woods” location. There will be something for everyone; including singing, fellowship, campfire time, “skit” night and time to reconnect with friends and family.

As camp continues its 31 year of traditions, please take this opportunity to relax, reminisce, and celebrate all the good things God has done through this unique setting!

Visit the camp web site for more information!
www.fpyc.org

Friends are Friends Forever

2006-12-10T11:57:00.000-08:00

Capturing the Old Lodge

2006-12-02T13:08:00.000-08:00

Lisa Ford has created this wonderful blanket. Most are sold, but some remain. I believe they are now at camp. If you want one, you'd better hustle and make a contact to Don or Becky in order to get one or contact Lisa Ford.

LeRoy adn Lisa are modeling this wondeful work. They are also representing a multigenerational connection that is more than a symbolic pose - it shows that much is shared between generations.

The multigenerational aspect of family camp is wonderful. Although I personally believe that we cpould do even better at intergenerational contect at family camp, it is good how it is done right now.

Tradition

2006-11-29T20:09:00.000-08:00

In this postmodern generation it might seem like all of the moorings have come loose and we are floating freely into who knows where?

Now, as one who is friendly to postmodern philosphy, I am not afraid of change. I like it. At the same time, losing a sense of history is a serious mistake. We must not neglect the past as we venture into the future.

This is what I love about FPYC. As we go forward, we look back as well. There are signs of the past all over camp, and yet there are signs of progress as well.

One of the best ways to connect to the past is to maintain traditions. There are some great traditions at camp. The hike, crazy campfire, appreciation dinner, skit night, morning devo etc. These things connect us to the past, keep us grounded as we live in a world the seems to be coming undone.

What is your favorite camp tradition?

Camp Is Conversation

2006-11-27T20:24:00.000-08:00

If there is one great thing about being with camp people it is the conversations that happen. Now, certainly camp is nature and fun and getting away, and of course it is freedom from the technology that so binds us (like right now). Yes, it's all that, but what would camp be without the conversations?

Think about the best conversation you have ever had at camp. Maybe the conversation occurred while gazing at stars or the Northern Lights. Could be it happened on the hike, trying to pass the time. Maybe you went deep during a Bible class. Lots of conversations happen at meals or during late night games.

Camp, my friends, is conversations.

Camp Dinner

2006-11-21T19:02:00.000-08:00

Here's LeRoy, taking joy in the annual camp dinner and auction. From one generation to the next generation, the joys of camp are recalled, reaffirmed, are retold as this late Fall tradition
has come to us once again.

I have word that over $11,000 were raised from donations made during this exciting annual event. The food was great, the auctioneer was hilarious as usual, and the people were generous.

Now we look forward to the holidays, to Snow Days, and then to something very special this summer. There will be an all camp reunion. More to come on this event.

The Legend of Grizzly Ogren

2006-11-18T13:49:00.000-08:00

If you are familiar with Flaming Pine Youth Camp, the you know Al Ogren. He was instrumental in founding the camp back in the 1970's along with some other visionaries. What many people do not know is that Al has a twin. Yes, it is true. Here is a picture recently released from the super secret Flaming Pine vault. It looks like Al Ogren playng guitar. It is not.

Folks, this is one of only three known pictures of Grizzly Ogren. Grizzly, Al's twin, filled in for Al one year while Al had some emergency duties as a school principal he had to attend to over the summer. Back in those days there were not a pool of camp directors from which to choose like we have today, so Al had to call on his competent, yet reluctant brother, Grizzly.

Before they could come to an agreemnt, there was a debtate betwee Al and Grizzly. Al asked Grizzly to shave his beard and thin out his hair. Al figured that since they were twins, no one would even know Al was gone. Grizzly, being the more principled of the two (though he himself was not a principal), refused. "If I am going to direct camp," said Grizzly, "I am going to direct it as Grizzly, not my little brother." Grizzly did precede Al in birth by a mere 13 seconds, but just enough to give him big brother status. Al, sometimes a little embarrassed at his brother for all of his facial hair and eating habits John the Baptist, was afraid that the camp might crumlbe under Grizzly's leadership, but Al was in a bind, so he gave in and let Grizzly direct as Grizzly.

The family camp session in which Grizzly Ogren directed was wonderful. There were actually some people who did not believe Grizzly was Al's twin, but was Al playing a joke one everyone. In fact, to this day many will deny the existence of Grizzly Ogren. Those of usmwho were there, those of us who know - we believe.

If anyone remembers Grizzly Ogren, feel free to comment.

Camp Dinner in Paris

2006-11-16T21:10:00.000-08:00

The annual camp dinner is round the corner. Saturday, to be exact. It is also an auction. Bring your fat wallet adn get ready to bid, bid, bid.

Word on the street is that the dinner will include this tasty dish, Chicken Cordon Bleu. The theme will be Paris. This gourmet dinner will get you in the buying mood.

I'll be taking pictures at the dinner for the blog.

At the name of Jesus...

2006-11-10T22:43:00.000-08:00

At the name of Jesus, every tree will bow.

OK, that was a little twist on scripture. These trees are fallen giants near the assembly of the giants near Thistle Dew Lake on the hike. These enormous trees are amazing. I recall first seeing these trees as a child. I was awestruck. I remember looking up and wondering what it would be like to be up that high.

And then one time at teen camp, we did the night hike. We left at dusk with our flashlights and water canteens - and faith in our leader. When we arrived at the assembly of the giants, we made a campfire and had a devotional. It was one of those beautiful experiences. Exciting, moving, and a little dangerous. Well, it probably wasn't all that dangerous, but it did feel that way.

When the devo was over, we put out the fire, but hung around a while. As the fire went out, the darkness of the night closed in. Then someone got the idea to shoot the beam of their flashlight up into the giant trees. Then everyone with a flashlight did the same. The beams of light shooting up through the lingering campfire smoke into the trees was beautiful. Somehow, it took us.

Sometimes when God wants to be a God of wonders, it's next to impossible to resist.

I thank God for wonders.

Tuggy: The New Log

2006-10-30T05:28:00.000-08:00

Back in the day, there was no Tuggy in the lake. Tuggy, in case you didn't know, is pictured here and is the joy of young children at FPYC swim periods. It's really fun to watch a bunch of kids riding on this sinking ship into the 3 foot depths of the swimming area.

Sometimes they make their way near the water basketball court, and then it gets really interesting. SPLASH! Someone goes down. And there is Tuggy, half submerged.

When camp first got going, back before Al Gore invented the internet, there was no Tuggy. There was in its place a floating log. It resembled the kind of log lumberjacks might compete on in a log rolling event. Untold fun was to be had on the log. The log made swimming so much fun, especially for young children who were not able to swim way out to the raft.

It was way back in thoses days. Look at this picture of Tuggy here and notice the tree helf submerged in the water. Back then that tree was alive and merely leaning over the water, not touching it. "No climbing on the tree," was the mantra. And there was always climbing on the tree.

Anyone else have memories of the log?

Lodge moves Right Along

2006-10-24T03:44:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a wonderful sight. The lodge is moving right a long. The new Lodge is going to be a a great addition to the camp.

I am getting pretty excited about this new lodge.

And hey, if you are remembering your great camp experience and want to connect with camp people and yuk it up some more, then the annual capm dinner and auction is coming up and it is a great time to rejuvinate your spirit.

Let's all go to the camp dinner and auction and have a great time. As has been the tradition for the past several years, the dinner is a themed event. The theme this year is Paris. You are going to love it.

The Lodge is Coming

2006-10-10T06:37:00.000-07:00

The lodge is coming. Well, the old one is going and the new one is on the way.

Thanks to Dale Ogren for this photo.

Great Counselors

2006-09-23T17:05:00.000-07:00

What would camp be without the terrific counselors we have each year? I am grateful now more than ever for great counselors as my daughter (featured here) is camper age.

If you were ever a camper at FPYC, then you had an experience with a counselor. Usually they have made for good memories. I am grateful for Richard Houle, Chris Shanks, Brett Osborne, Paul Maynard, and many others.

Anyone else have a counselor they would like to honor here on the camp blog?

Camp Fire

2006-09-15T18:52:00.000-07:00

Campfire has been the one of the most fun, crazy, and meaningful times of camp sessions. If ever there were a place at camp where traditions were perpetuated, it is the campfire.

B-u-bb-l-e g-u-m spells bublegum bubblegum.
John Jacob Jingleheimer Schmidt
There's a hole, there's a hole in the middle of the sea
Three blue pigeons
Myrna

Oh the pines are ablaze...

What are your favorite moments around the campfire?

The Sandpit - only a pit stop

2006-09-11T18:40:00.000-07:00

When I learned that the sandpit was no longer and interactive event with nature, but was a relic that inspired nostalgiac storytelling, I became sad. My children will never have the joy I did of managing their way down the precarious sandpit.

Yes, it's steeper now, but good grief. I wanted to join my kids in a trip down the sandpit and I couldn't.

It kind of felt like being in school and the whole class getting punished for the misdeeds of the one punk in the class.

Yes, I understand the safety first thinking htat goes into deciions like this, but in my not so humble opinion, the decision stinks.

On the other hand, my kids will never miss it like I would, never having tasted the joys of the sandpit.

Too Cute

2006-09-08T20:35:00.000-07:00

I am not sure what is going on here in this picture. Could it be a gopher in pink? A cute pose? Who knows? All I know is that cuteness seems to emerge around the campfire every year.

Fun in the sun

2006-09-05T19:12:00.000-07:00

Camp was hot this year - Texas hot. With highs soaring into triple digits and no AC to be found, smart campers headed to the lake for a wonderful cool down.

I found the lake 5 times this summer during the session I attended - a personal record. I was not alone.

Water basketball games broke out daily during boy's swim period. I do not know what happened during girl's swim period, but I heard reports that it was quite busy as well.

I was grateful for a beautiful, clean lake for a refreshing dip. No weird green color, no poisonous snakes, and no creepy cloudy opaque am-I-gonna-catch-something color to the water - like I have seen in so many lakes in other states.

Anyone else enjoy swimming this summer?

The Lodge

2006-09-01T20:54:00.000-07:00

This is one of the last pictures of the original lodge. It was taken July 2006. In fact, next visit to camp will reveal a new lodge.

The lodge has been one of the spiritual centers since Flaming Pine Youth Camp was purchased from the boy scouts back in the 1970's.

I have had so many deep and influetial spiritual experiences in this old lodge - too many to recount.

The lodge, back in the day, had three rooms on the end opposite the main door. My first night ever slept at Flaming Pine Youth Camp was in the center room of these three rooms in the lodge. I was too young to be in a cabin group, which would have actually been in a tent. I remember the cots that folded down from the wall. The director's "office" was next door and had one of those old mimeograph machines in it printing out those purple colored copies.

What have you experienced in the old lodge?

2006-08-31T21:21:00.000-07:00

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The Cross

2006-08-29T21:15:00.000-07:00

What does this symbol mean to you?

This life sized wooden cross stands over the campfire ring near the lake. It was probably used during one session over the summer in a dramatic representation of the crucifixion of Christ. Summer camp events like this can serve to provide color and life to the story of God's redemption of his people.

At the same time, Christians can get too comfy with the cross. We must never forget that this is a tool of cruel death. The cross is just a tool. It was not the cross that did anything for us, but rather what Jesus did on that cross. He changed the course of history, brought hope, fulfilled the law of Moses, and provided opportunity for life to the full and life eternal.

Jesus was certainly concerned with our life after this life and that is important to dwell on. But we must not neglect that Jesus had a mission that was more than what happens after this life. Jesus invited into a life within this life. We becomes tools for the advancement of compassion in this life. We are to spread love and forgiveness and redemption. We must go about our lives as if the purpose of our lives were to love God and love people because that is just what it is.

Your thoughts?

Flaming Pine Men's Retreat

2006-08-26T13:46:00.000-07:00

Click here to learn about the Fall Men's Retreat at Flaming Pine.

By Example

2006-08-24T19:06:00.000-07:00

Al Ogren is one of my favorite people in the world. There are many reasons. This picture, however, symbolizes one of the top reasons I like Al.

If anyone could claim a certain elevated status at Flaming Pine Youth Camp it would be Al. I mean, he's certainly paid his dues. Not only that, he has been at camp since day one. And finally, let's just say he's a seasoned camper. If Al didn't want to wash another dish at camp, who would say anything?

And yet here he is in summer 2006 at the helm of the dishwasher.

This is the kind of example I need, mentor I need, leadership I need.

Here are the lessons contained within this picture:

1. Leadership means never requiring something of someone else you wouldn't require of yourself.

2. Service is for everyone.

3. Working across generations can be fun.

4. No one is too good for anything.

What do you see in this picture?

Yes, Kathy Can Sing

2006-08-21T11:42:00.000-07:00

Brett and Kathy Osborne have been married 20 years. Once upon a time, early on in their romance, I was treated (as a teenager) to a duet by them called, "Surround Me With love." It was a song that resonated with my heart because I felt like camp was the only safe place on the face of the earth. It was camp that got me through the awkward teenage years, through difficulties at home, through my "I hate everyone and everything" days. Although I spent at most 3 weeks a year at Flaming Pine Youth Camp, songs like, "Surround Me With Love," lasted the other 49 weeks.

Kathy retired from camp performances years ago. A loss, in my opinion. Well, this year at the second family session, Kathy came out of retirement and treated us (with brett of course) to that same duet, "Surround Me With love."

Kathy, thanks for coming out of retirement to bless us (me) once again with that song. It triggers something deep within me.

And, if I can find a way, I might upload a recording of that song from 1986, I believe.

Ice Cream At Camp

2006-08-19T03:49:00.000-07:00

One of the great treats every year at Flaming Pine Youth Camp is ice cream night. It happens every year, but it is the seldom remembered treat. So, it is like a new little surprise every year:"Oh yeah, ice cream night."

With, shall we say, generous portions of heat this year, ice cream night was extremely popular.

Don't you think that there is something special and innocent about a child enjoying an ice cream cone? The amount of happiness extracted from such a simple pleasure must be part of what the heart of a child is like. There is certainly something to learn from children who enjoy ice cream cones.

Another Great Year At FPYC

2006-08-14T13:14:00.000-07:00

It was another terrific year at Flaming Pine Youth Camp. I attended the second Family Session at the end of July - yeah, the hot one. Besides the heat and the annoying splinter I received (flip-flops at camp is a bad idea), it was great.

Just like last year, I took a bunch pf pictures and will do my best to create camp cards. I would love to receive some pictures from you all. Please e-mail pictures that you would like to become enshrined eternally as camp cards.

Include name of person/people/scene with the session. If you ahve a caption that you think fits, send that along as well.

gonza181@umn.edu

Can't wait to see what you give me. And hey, if you don't send in the picture you want to be in a campo card, then don't gripe that it's not a camp card :-)

Finally, if you have old camp photos, send those, too. If I get enough from years gone by, I'll make some special "Turn Back The Clock" cards. I would especially like to see a photo of Al Ogren's twin brother Grizzly Ogren, I believe, with the full beard.

Camp Cards

2006-06-20T19:55:00.000-07:00

There will be Camp Cards Available at flaming Line Youth Camp soon.

What are camp cards? Well, imagine Yu Gi Oh or Pokemon cards (OK, for you old people Like me, think baseball cards), but with the picture of real live Flaming Piners or various places around Laming Pine Youth Camp. These are full color, high quality pieces of memorabilia. Oh yes, there will be a cost. But 100% of hte cost is a donation to camp. So, gather up the memories by gathering up camp cards.

OK, you might not see yourself in the pictures in camp cards. You know why? Because I don't have pictures of you. Whe I get pictures of you or pictures you've taken, then they will become a camp card. OK, it's not an absolute guarantee, but it is a huge likelihood.

So, here is what I am looking for to build the Camp Card 2007 Series:

1. Pictures of people from 2006 sessions. Please include name of person/people in picture and the session.

2. Vintage pictures from years ago. I need name of person and the year the picture was taken.

3. Scenary, current and vintage. Please indicate what is in the picutre and the year it was taken.

I want to make the 2007 series incredible. I can only do that with your picture help. I only attend one session, so if I don't get anjy pictures, then we wil ahve to rely on the pictures I take. Guys, that's a mistake. So, give me a little love and send me pics.

gonza181@umn.edu

or snail mail to :
833 Greening Drive
Apple Valley, MN 55124

The 10 Mile Hike #4 - The Meadow

2006-02-06T12:07:00.000-08:00

When arriving in the meadow, you know that you are close to home. Not close enough that you feel confident you could get there on your own, but close enough to feel the ache in your knees blended with the anticipation of "home."

If it has rained any that day, the grass has gathered much water and waited for your jeans and socks to pick it up. The tall grass reminds you that God is keeping the lawn and he likes it tall. Besides FPYC campers, few people walk here. The old logging road is abandoned and slowly being taken over by nature's way.

As you look at the birch trees, you remember that its bark can be used to start a fire - oh yes, campfire tonight. You might even prepare for silly campfaire songs, talk with cabin mates or friends about what silly song you might sing tonight.

"There's a hole in the bottom of the sea," is sung along the hike more than in any other place besides the campfire itself. Lots of jokes have been told in the meadow. Lots of friendships made as well.

It is at this point in the hike that the conversation with the person you are hiking with has gone beyond the surface recapturing of a year apart or the gettting to know you and deeper into the stuff of life. Problems and failures, successes and lucky breaks are more easily shared by the time you get to the meadow. The meadow offers a sort of metaphor for the depth conversations take at this point, a brief coming out of the woods to openness. No longer shielded by the forest canopy, you are open and exposed - but usually pretty safe.

The 10 Mile Hike #3: Berries

2006-01-29T21:42:00.000-08:00

After the Sandpit you walk down a dirt road for a while until the hard left back into the woods. It feels like a real hike again.

Not long after the path leads the hikers up a slight hill. Atop the hill ther is usually a brief stop, unless Al is leading, then there is no stop here. Either way, there follows a path that does a couple switchbacks down a slight hill. This is one of the best berry picking places in my memory. There are certainly others, but this one sticks in my memory as one of the best.

These raspberries and blueberries provide a much needed pause of tasteful delight. There is still sand in the shoes at this point, despite strong efforts to rid them of sand. The canteen might be empty of water by now, or is at least getting close to empty. These little snacks remind us that there is provision, free of charge, available to us all along this journey home.

Not only is there provision, it is wonderfully delicious. And there is enough for everyone. Not once has there been a time when there were no berries to be found.

The 10 Mile Hike #2 - The Sand Pit

2006-01-21T09:09:00.000-08:00

Talk about getting a rock in your shoe. After surviving the Fire Tower, hikers travel on a short distance (although when you are a kid it is really long) to the Sand Pit, another dangerous endeavor.

Oh, the feel of adventure and danger, how intoxicating. Although I have seen a few Evil Knevals hauled off to the camp or hospital after doing flips from the top or getting a little too much speed on the way dawn, I have seen legions more filled with joy and excitement descending the Sand Pit. No where else in their lives were they able to adventure like this. The coddled suburbs or vast farmlands from where they came did not offer such an excitement.

The Sand Pit is entertainment unplugged. It is engagement with the earth far, far from the virtual world of Ipods, Playstations, and internet.

It is also the traditional half way point of the 10 mile hike. An important emotional shift happens after the brief rest, water break, and unloading of the shoes after the Sand Pit. A sense of "we're headed home" begins to invade the psyche. This is an important feeling for someone to have. It is similar to the feeling one gets when they contemplate their faith journey.

We're not home, but we're headed there - what a hopeful feeling. A few times here and there, we get a little glimpse of the elevated tree line that we know is the place where home is located. Then we wander back into the forest not seeing much but the next step immediately ahead, trusting that what we saw in the glimpse really exists.

The 10 Mile Hike #1 - The Fire Tower

2006-01-17T08:55:00.000-08:00

For Flaming Pine veterans, the fire tower holds a special place in our memories. Once upon a time, the "10 mile hike" inlcuded a stop at the fire tower. Just after a stop for water at Thistledew Lake, we would make our way up to the fire tower. Not only would we go to the fire tower, we would ascend to the top of the fire tower.

As a parent of two kids , the thought of sending children up to the top a rickety old fire tower always in need of repairs kind of puts a shiver up my spine. At the same time I really wish I had the chance to take my kids up to the top and see for miles and miles the expansive deep green forest broken only by the occasional blue of the lakes.

I remember the feeling as a kid climbing the stairs (there was always one or two missing requiring an extra big stretch of the legs), a feeling of adventure, fear and excitement wrapped together. The sway of the tower in the wind could not be avoided. The best part was finally getting to the top platform and standing to see the view that was so much earned for the long and winding climb.

There must be some kind of life lesson in this experience. Hard work toward an exciting and rsioky goal reaps great rewards - something like that.

Test

2006-01-06T18:53:00.000-08:00

Test