| Submitted by Paige Toney
Calhoun 4-H members recognized (L to R) Sarah Butler (Hand H Recipient),
Kara Haymaker (Heart H Recipient),
Heather Weaver (Head H Recipient),
Steven Cunningham (Health H Recipient),
( Front) Jacob McCumbers (Spirit of Camp Recipient)
What do you have when you bring 85 enthusiastic children and 18 dedicated adult volunteer counselors together for a week
in June? Give up? The answer is the 2003 version of Calhoun County's, WVU Extension Service, 4-H Camp. This year's
theme "Power of Youth - Love It, Live It, Share It" provided youth, from third grade to 21 years old, an opportunity to
develop life skills and form values intended to empower them to become productive and contributing members of the
community.
After months of planning to assure a meaningful experience for everyone, youth from Calhoun County set up residence at the
Gilmer County Recreation Center from June 15 - 19. Although clouds and rain attempted to dampen their spirits, campers
wholeheartedly participated in group activities, assemblies, and peer led presentations scheduled during the week.
With rise and shine beginning at 6:50 AM, the campers' days were full and exciting. Following flag raising each day a
nutritious breakfast was served to everyone. Since developing personal life skills, responsibility, and teamwork are several of
the goals associated with 4-H camp, each camper contributed to making sure their cabin was cleaned and ready for daily
inspection. The remainder of the morning was spent attending class and craft activities chosen by the campers prior to the
start of camp. Classes and crafts were led by Teen Leaders and an outstanding group of adult volunteers.
The afternoons began with lunch followed by Tribal Meetings. During Tribal Meetings, campers worked on the evening's
Council Circle songs, yells, and skits. A popular afternoon free time activity was swimming! Without the threat of thunder or
lighting, the lifeguard permitted campers to swim in the rain. If you never thought swimming in the rain could be fun, just ask
any of the campers who tried it! Additional afternoon free time activities included healthy games and music.
Dinner was served promptly at 5:30 PM following an angelic rendition of the song "Simple Gifts" sung by the entire camp. A
second round of Tribal Meetings were held leading up to evening Meditation and Council Circle, the climax of each day.
The day closed with snacks and lights out at 11 p.m.
During Thursday's final Council Circle several campers were singled out and honored for their individual leadership qualities.
The "Head-H" award representing a camper who exhibits clear thinking and possesses planning and problem solving skills
went to Heather Weaver. The "Heart-H" award indicating loyalty, a sharing nature and concern for others went to Kara
Haymaker. The "Hands-H" award was given to Sarah Butler who showed an ability to be self-motivated with a willingness
to work and contribute to bettering the community. Steven Cunningham, this year's winner of the "Health-H" demonstrated
a strong character, a healthy lifestyle and a high level of responsibility.
In addition, Jacob McCumbers was selected as "Spirit of Camp," due to his outstanding leadership qualities as they relate to
all four H's. Finally, Ryan Bremar received an "I Dare You" award. This award is given to an older camper who is
exemplary in their 4-H development. Challenging the recipient to a four-fold development process to "think tall, smile tall,
live tall and stand tall," this award is intended to "dare" the recipient to become more than they already are.
Ryan Bremar "I Dare You Award" recipient
This year's 4-H camp also was the first for new Extension Agent, Lew Holloway. At the very least Lew was very impressed
with the enthusiasm of the campers and the entire group of adult volunteers. He's looking forward to working with both
groups to plan next year's 4-H Camp .
Programs and activities offered by the WVU Extension Service are available to all persons without regard to race, color, sex
disability, religion, age, veteran status, sexual orientation or national origin. If you have questions or would like to learn more
about how you or your child can become involved please call the Extension office at 354-6332.
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