Many, many people feel blessed by God through their experiences at Spruce Lake Retreat. So ...wouldn't it be great to invite other families and individuals to discover similar blessings?

When you invite and bring a new family (who has not attended in at least three years) to the event you're attending, you will both be entered in the Refer-A-Family Drawing to take place Labor Day Weekend, 2011. (Individual retreats such as Men's or Women's retreats do not apply.)

The Top Prize winner will receive a $300 Event Gift Certificate, the Second Place winner a $100 Event Gift Certificate, and the Third Place winner a $20 Certificate to Spruce Lake's gift shop.

(written by Eric Kauffman, Wilderness Camp director)

Working at summer camp is very demanding.
Each week begins early Sunday afternoon and ends late Friday night. Weekdays begin 5:00-7:00 a.m. and end 9:00-12:00 p.m., depending on the campers' ages. The days consist of cooking breakfasts over the fire, leading U-Pick-Its, keeping tent groups busy with other activities, leading daily devotions and answering all kinds of questions. The pay for this arduous task is a mere $110 per week.

Why would anyone spend their summer (aka free time) doing this?

Yes, staff are responsible for their campers around the clock, yet the days are filled with -- well, lots of play! Archery, crafts, camp-outs, swimming, boating, gaga, Rec Hour and Fireside worship -- these play-filled activities also provide countless teachable moments and opportunities for building relationships.

And, what about the pay?

I've learned that what staff value in their summer service experience is knowing and depending on God, forming deep and lasting friendships, and being used by God to touch and change people's lives. That is why nearly half of our summer team of 45 will be returning! And yet another third will consist of former campers and some from other camps who've heard how life-changing the work at Spruce Lake can be!

These excited staff see summer camp as a mission field, and are right in thinking so. Last summer, over 70 campers decided to follow Christ or rededicated their lives. And many campers and staff said their deepest friendships are from camp.

As I've interviewed potential staff, I kept hearing similar refrains like, "It is the best place for me," or "I feel so close to God," or "It will help me grow spiritually."

These are all valid and exciting reasons for a staff person to serve! When God's intentions find a home in a young person's heart and mind, that will indeed be "the best place" for them.

In many school around the United States, the problem of bullying has become a large concern. And Christian schools, like it or not, are not exempt.

Spruce Lake's Outdoor School director, Lisa Ferrer, wanted outdoor teaching staff and adventure program facilitators to learn about the symptoms, characteristics, causes and impact of bullying. She invited Meg McHale, elementary school principal at Atlantic Christian School in New Jersey, to lead the seminar, "Bullies and Beyond," at Spruce Lake March 7.

Throughout her years in school administration, McHale has seen bullying increase in scope, with life-altering effects on kids. And appearances can be deceiving, McHale pointed out. A recent Study of Teacher Awareness reported that teachers believe they are aware of as much as 85% of the bullying behavior in their classrooms. Students, however, say teachers are aware of only about 35% of the actions.

It's common to think one knows what bullying is, said McHale, or that only a small number of children are affected, or that adults are already doing all they can. But this is simply not the case. Furthermore, adults sometimes excuse bullying behavior by saying it's just boys being boys. Or ignore it by asking their child to forgive or love the offender, so God can work it out. These, too, are fallacies, McHale said.

Bullying is often hard to spot, she said, because much of the behavior takes place where or when adults are not looking. But there are three common identifiers of bullying, whether it's physical, verbal, social or cyber bullying: (1) A pattern of repeated aggressive behavior; (2) Negative intent; (3) A power difference between the bully and the victim.

In addition to the bully and victim, many others "participate" in various roles. There are the followers, passive bullies, passive supporters, bystanders/onlookers, defenders and possible defenders. All have a part to play in a bullying situation.

What can adults do to help kids affected by bullying? First of all, listen! Don't deny the problem or get angry which only makes things worse. Be (or find) a mentor for the child, and let them know they are valued just for who they are. Teach the appropriate assertiveness skills and do your best to follow up on the situation, McHale said. And most of all, show the children involved genuine love, for bullies are often raised with too little love and care, coupled with too much freedom.

Youth leaders or families or groups of friends -- are you hungry for adventure?

We can help you integrate the pure fun of being in a wilderness setting with a deep, Christ-centered spirituality. Spruce Lake's guides will take you on a trip designed for your group. It could be canoeing the Delaware River, hiking the Appalachian Trail, or backpacking in the Adirondacks of New York.

We offer three-day and two-day options, which include all food, snacks, gear, transport, instruction and certified guides. The three-day trip requires a custom fee of $720 plus $30 per participant, with space for 8-18. The two-day trip requires the same custom fee of $720 plus $20 per participant, with space for 8-18 people.

All of our river guides are trained in American Red Cross lifesaving techniques and in Wilderness First Aid. Richard Brewer, our Expeditions Manager and head guide, is also a certified Outdoor Emergency Care Provider, a Leave-No-Trace trainer, and has over 10 years of trip-leading experience.

Richard T. Walter, Sr. (aka Dick) died Thursday, March 24, in Baltimore Washington Medical Center. He and his wife of 51 years, Beulah (Moyer) Walter had been traveling home to Pennsylvania from their son, Richard, Jr.'s home in Brownsville, Texas, an excursion they made every year.

Viewing hours are Tuesday, March 29, 6-8 p.m. at Swamp Mennonite Church in Quakertown, PA, and 10-11 a.m. Wednesday, March 30. The funeral service follows at 11 a.m. March 30 at the church.

Memorial contributions can be directed to Spruce Lake Retreat, Attention: Development Office, 5389 Route 447, Canadensis, PA 18325 -- or to Swamp Mennonite Church, 2125 Rosedale Road, Quakertown, PA 18951.

Well- loved and respected by Spruce Lake's staff, guests and constituency, Dick was an outgoing communicator and supporter of Spruce Lake's mission. During his 13 "retirement" years of service at Spruce Lake, Dick first worked as Director of Operations and later as Spruce Lake's first Director of Development.

Prior to retirement, Dick had worked over 25 years in construction management for Pullman Power Products, a construction and engineering firm that built power plants worldwide. He was recognized for his accomplishments in that profession and earned his Professional Engineers license in Quality Assurance.

Dick's work took him and his family to many interesting locations around the globe. Wherever they settled temporarily for a job, Dick's priority was to find a church where he'd soon become actively involved in some leadership role, whether it was teaching Sunday School or serving as elder. He and Beulah were currently participating in the life of the Evangelical Free Church in Mechanicsburg, PA.

Dick will be remembered fondly for his good humor, his ability to see the best in people, for spreading good cheer, and for his life of faithfulness to Jesus Christ. He was the kind of guy to give generously without any thought for recognition.

Photos: (1) Our most recent staff photo of Dick Walter is from this past September, 2010, when he and Beulah attended the Sixty-Plus Retreat at Spruce Lake. Always one to dive right into the action (never mind any voices of caution!), Dick took a ride on the Indoor Power Swing. He's here, ascending to the peak of the Program Center! (2) Dick beams his trademark triumphant, spirited smile upon returning safely to earth after his ride.

Spruce Lake will be changing replacing all T-12 fluorescent lights currently in use in all of our buildings with new Compact Fluorescent Lighting (CFL) fixtures, thanks to a rebate program offered by Pennsylvania Power & Light (PPL). Eventually, the bulbs currently in use will not be available from suppliers anyway, as the federal government is promoting the energy-efficient light fixtures.

The savings to Spruce Lake will be significant. A new CFL bulb use approximately 75% less energy than a standard fluorescent light, lasts 10 times longer, and will save up to $30 over its lifetime!

"We looked all around the property to find fluorescent bulbs," said maintenance technician Joel Varga, "anywhere from Wilderness to Wastewater to Maplewood (staff) and anywhere in between." Spruce Lake staff will replace the lights with some anticipated volunteer help.

To find out more about PPL's rebate program for residential, small business, commercial/industrial and institutional enterprises, go to the PPL link: http://www.PPLelectric.com/e-power.

Meg McHale, elementary school principal and director of "Bullies and Beyond", has been invited to lead a workshop March 7, 2011, for Spruce Lake Outdoor School teachers, support staff and adventure program facilitators.

"Bullies and Beyond" has emerged from McHale's own experiences with school kids, and more recently, from her master's thesis on the bullying epidemic and the ensuing cycle of victimization. Her masters presentation, "Suffering in Silence," identified the reasons why bullying victims suffer in silence for so long, and offered strategies for improving kids' social skills, assertiveness training, mentoring, and establishing needed support groups. McHale's own daughter experienced bullying while in middle school, fueling her passion for this topic in a personal way.

Bullying includes physical intimidation, verbal harassment, cyber-bullying and social isolation. To find out more about the "Bullies and Beyond" program, go to www.bulliesandbeyond.com.

Mark Swartley, Executive Director of Spruce Lake Retreat, was appointed January 27, 2011, to a two-year term as President of the Mid-Atlantic Section of CCCA (Christian Camp & Conference Association). As president, Mark will coordinate multi-camp training events and directors' meetings, act as liaison between the national CCCA office and the section, and oversee sectional events and finances. Mark has served the two prior years as President-Elect.

Chuck Crismon, one of Spruce Lake's Food Service team, grins his approval of the new coffee service cabinet installed in the front lobby of Spruce Lodge the week of November 8th. No more space crammed too tight for everything! The new cabinet was crafted -- and donated -- by Eugene Forry, longtime Spruce Lake friend and owner of Horizon Kitchens in Mountville, PA. Spruce Lake staff installed the new cabinet, which displays round-the-clock hot coffee and teas.

Three of Spruce Lake Outdoor School's teachers represented Spruce Lake at the MACSA (Mid-Atlantic Christian Schools Association) Convention November 10-12 at the Lancaster (PA) Host Resort & Conference Center.

Along with sparking relationships with new schools and building upon well-established connections, the team also led workshops at the event. Rachel Erb and Richard Brewer co-led SOLO, for discovering Spiritual Outdoor Learning Opportunities. Connie Wismer joined with Richard and Rachel in leading Bag of Tricks, for exploring the value and practicality of group initiatives that require few or no props.

Can the Wilderness Camp experience hold up to the influence of social media?

The average Facebook user has about 130 friends and is connected to approximately 80 community pages, groups and events. Half of the 500 million FB users log in daily to accumulate 700 billion minutes on FB each month.

Virtually interacting with so many people from around the world has exploded opportunities and friendships. Wouldn't it seem that finding a few friends at camp might pale in comparison?

Our parent evaluations consistently show that campers value relationships as their highlight of Spruce Lake Wilderness Camp, specifically their relationships with staff. As camp director, Eric Kauffman is thrilled with this feedback but wondered why "simple relationships" still come out on top?

Kauffman got in touch with four of the many parents who had said on their evaluations, "My child loved their counselor!" Each of these parents spoke of the openness and care expressed for their campers by the young adult staff clearly in low with Jesus Christ and the children in their care. They all pointed out the power of exemplary role modeling in their children's lives. In fact, many of our staff served at Wilderness Camp this summer "simply because" of the counselors they had had as campers!

So it seems evident that amid all the technological opportunities for friendship, Camp still remains a hot spot for finding "real friends" and sound role models.

In the current economic environment, some students aren't able to participate in their class trip to Spruce Lake Outdoor School with the rest of their classmates. Or, a school is tempted to cancel or shorten their Outdoor School trip to save money.

To assist these students and schools so they can continue to benefit from their experience at Spruce Lake Outdoor School, we welcome contributions to our Spruce Lake Outdoor School Endowment or the Scholarship Fund.

The Endowment for Spruce Lake Outdoor School is a new one, recently established by an anonymous donor, and provides funds for SCHOOLS so they do not have to cancel their class trips to Spruce Lake. Growing this fund will continue to meet needs long into the future.

The Scholarship Fund for Spruce Lake Outdoor School assists individual STUDENTS so they can attend with the rest of their class. In 2010, for example, a gift of $160 would enable one child to experience Outdoor School for a typical three-day day stay.

Joy Taylor, a teacher at West Sayville Christian School in the Long Island area of New York, brought her students to Spruce Lake Outdoor School this past May, 2010. It was her first time at Spruce Lake; she and her students thoroughly enjoyed the experience!

Joy noticed the impact that Spruce Lake's staff had on her students and determined within herself to be part of that ...but how?

When the group returned home, Joy decided that volunteering at Spruce Lake over her summer break could be a way to get involved with the ministry. She called to inquire about volunteer options. Several weeks went by. Then Eric Kauffman, Wilderness Camp Director, got in touch with her to offer the idea of volunteering as a camp counselor for three weeks.

"I was surprised and thrilled by the offer!" Joy said. She knew her teaching experience would be an asset in working with campers, but naturally, she felt a bit nervous anyway. Her first week at camp was spent getting to know the staff and the surroundings. She served as a counselor the remaining two weeks. The entire experience was empowering and invigorating for Joy. She says this about her experience:

"My campers' deep desire to live for the Lord fed my own thirst for God! As I led my tent group of girls, I also gained skills in managing groups of children, especially those ages 8-14. I regained confidence in the abilities God has given me, and was reminded of God's amazing love for me!"

Joy went on. "The spirit of community I found among the staff was also so exciting! Each staff member truly cared for the others, wanting nothing but the best for them."

"As I interacted with staff," Joy said, "I also learned how to be more carefree, spontaneous and less serious about all aspects of life. I began to learn how to 'let go and let God.' The camp environment was so encouraging and uplifting. It is truly contagious!"

Joy and her students are already looking forward to their return to Spruce Lake in 2011.

Photo: Volunteer counselor Joy Taylor poses at their tent with some of her campers this summer.

In the current economic environment, some students aren't able to participate in their class trip to Spruce Lake Outdoor School with the rest of their classmates. Or, a school is tempted to cancel or shorten their Outdoor School trip to save money.

To assist these students and schools so they can continue to benefit from their experience at Spruce Lake Outdoor School, we welcome contributions to our Spruce Lake Outdoor School Endowment or the Scholarship Fund.

The Endowment for Spruce Lake Outdoor School is a new one, recently established by an anonymous donor, and provides funds for SCHOOLS so they do not have to cancel their class trips to Spruce Lake. Growing this fund will continue to meet needs long into the future.

The Scholarship Fund for Spruce Lake Outdoor School assists individual STUDENTS so they can attend with the rest of their class. In 2010, for example, a gift of $160 would enable one child to experience Outdoor School for a typical three-day day stay.

World Team and Olympic trialist Alex Ferrer is now teaching archery classes for Spruce Lake Outdoor School.

Alex claims an array of credentials. He has competed in three World Team trials and three Olympic trials, as well as in various national competitions. He has trained as a Level One Olympic coach and is certified by NFAA (National Field Archery Association), which provides the standards of proficiency for schools and outdoor centers such as Spruce Lake.

Alex has also been teaching archery at Spruce Lake Wilderness Camp for the past six years.

"I just love teaching kids to shoot!" Alex said. "Archery is a life-long sport and a learned discipline. You get out of it what you put into it."

Alex credits archery for "saving his life." He says he'd grown up in the "worst precinct" of New York City and who knows where he'd be today were it not for "all the old guys" who took him fishing, rifle hunting and introduced him to the world of archery.

Pennsylvania is a welcoming state for archers, with numerous competitions and clubs in which to participate.

Recently, Guest Group Coordinator Alexandra Ferrer received an email from Sherri Miller, coleader of New Dimensions Youth Retreat, who came on retreat at Spruce Lake August 8-14, 2010. Sherri's husband pastors the congregation located in Salisbury, Maryland.

"Good morning, Alexandra!" She wrote. "I just wanted to thank you and the staff at Spruce Lake for the wonderful time we had at our retreat. What an impact this has made on the young people who travel with me each year. The young adults who have been coming since our first visit four years ago have said that they will bring their children to Spruce Lake!"

"Your motto is Pointing People Toward Christ, and that's exactly what you've done for those I've had the privilege to chaperone over these four years."

One of the New Dimensions participants took a spill on a bicycle, and guests and staff offered help throughout the incident. The young gal wasn't seriously hurt and through the experience, realized in a deeper way that God is the one to call on for help. In fact, her cell phone had gone dead and she couldn't call anyone else. The rider is already looking forward to their church retreat next year!

"Our God is awesome!" said Sherri. "We believe in this retreat such that we are willing to personally assist any of our young people if they are unable to pay."

Photo: Participants from the New Dimensions Ministries Youth Retreat pose at the gazebo.

Not only was Saturday, October 9, one of the most beautiful fall days one could ever imagine, but a large group of 37 volunteers turned out to help "do wood" on our annual day of cutting, gathering and stacking wood for winter use. "We haven't had this many people in three or four years!" exclaimed Facilities Director Steve Ykema.

Teams with chainsaws scattered throughout the woods cutting fallen timber into sections, or felling dead trees. With 46 trees dropped, we were grateful for the safety of everyone. Other teams filled truckloads of timber pieces, transporting them from various spots in the woods to the wood piles in Spruce Lake's "back forty." There, several teams ran the wood splitters, adding to the well-stocked piles of wood for guest lodge and front lobby fireplaces, and for campground use next summer.

We extend a satisfied Thank You to each volunteer who helped make this annual day a success!

Photo: Scenes from Woodcutting Day October 9th:

Spruce Lake's butterfly garden, located next to Lakeview Program Center, has been certified and registered as a Monarch Waystation! This is an important step in conserving and protecting the endangered monarch butterfly, and helps to assure that monarch migration to and from North America can continue.

Every fall, hundreds of millions of monarch butterflies fly from the United States and Canada to their wintering grounds in Mexico and the California coast, where they wait for a favorable return flight in the spring.The monarch migration is one of the world's most awesome natural wonders, yet it is severely threatened by habitat loss in North America.

What is causing the rapid loss of habitat? The monarch needs the milkweed plant for eating and breeding. Without this plant, butterflies cannot reproduce. Development and the widespread use of herbicides in croplands, pasturelands and roadsides is contributing to the decline in the monarch population.

A Monarch Waystation offers the kinds of plants the monarch needs for reproducing and for continued nourishment. Monarch larvae feast on milkweed plants in the spring. A variety of flowering plants offer nectar that feeds the newly emerging butterflies and nourishes them as they leave for warmer places in the fall.

Spruce Lake's Waystation #04039 will be listed on the registry of Waystations at www.monarchwatch.org. At this site, you'll also find details for establishing butterfly habitat for your own home garden, school, church or any unused plot of ground around your neighborhood. We encourage you to get involved by creating and maintaining your own Waystation!

Photo: A newly hatched Monarch butterfly dries its wings as it feeds on nectar in Spruce Lake's garden.

Dr. Tommy Mitchell, featured speaker during Spruce Lake's Family Week 1, July 9-15, presented a passionate case for trusting the biblical accounts of creation and the hope for life that springs from those scriptures.

Dr. Mitchell is a scientist, physician and speaker for the Answers in Genesis ministry, which defends the creation accounts in Genesis as God's complete, descriptive truth. He offered compelling reasons for trusting the Bible as a whole throughout the week's seven presentations that included sessions on "Why Genesis Matters," "Noah's Ark and the Global Flood," and "A God of Suffering?"

Family Week 1 participants also enjoyed inspirational concerts by Higher Ground and the Franz Family, along with a coffee house with music by Tom Post, Jr. and a family contra dance called by local musician Peter Taney.

Photo: Dr. Tommy Mitchell defends a literal six-day creation during Spruce Lake's Family Week 1.

Jessica Kline of Newmanstown, PA, and Dianne Hayes of Phillipsburg, NJ, are winners in Spruce Lake's recent weekend giveaway drawings through radio station WBYN. The radio spots highlighted Spruce Lake's summer Family Weeks and Weekends, and invited listeners to submit their reasons why they would want to come to Spruce Lake. The winners were selected at random. Stay tuned to WBYN, 107.5, Boyertown, PA, for more about Spruce Lake throughout the year.

SOOP volunteers Ferne and Marcus Lehman will be serving at Spruce Lake through mid-September. The couple had noticed the listing with Service Opportunities for Older People (SOOP), and when Marcus attended Spruce Lake's Men's Retreat this past January, he pushed the idea along further. Spruce Lake seemed like the right choice, and they arrived the week of June 15 from Mt. Pleasant Mills, PA. Ferne will be assisting front office staff, and Marcus will work in maintenance. The Lehmans participate in the life of Lauver's Mennonite Church, Richfield, PA.

PHOTO: Marcus and Ferne Lehman arrived in June just in time for the staff farewell gathering for the Musselman family. (see the next news item below.).

Maria and Doug Musselman, who have served at Spruce Lake for approximately 18 and 15 years respectively, will be moving at the end of June, 2010, from the realm of camping to Lancaster County, Pennsylvania.

Doug's training and expertise in environmental science and ecology has been a great asset over the years as he served as an outdoor education instructor, staff ecologist and landscaper. He communicated his love of plants and animals with hundreds of school children, and was a knowledgeable, patient teacher.

Maria had cheerfully volunteered on summer staff long before serving full-time in almost every area at one time or another -- food service, maintenance, lifeguarding and housekeeping. Their children -- Lydia, Rachel and Jacob -- all grew up at camp with its many benefits of community and the woodlands for playing in.

The Musselmans look forward to being closer to family and await new opportunities in the Lancaster area.

PHOTO: Doug and Maria are pictured here with Dawn and Herb Lantz in the background. The Lantz couple has also served at Spruce Lake for more than 10 years.

Guests came to Spruce Lake's spring Open House Sunday, May 23, to have a good time, to enjoy a fun picnic and to visit with friends. Even though the prospect of rain moved most activities indoors (though it didn't rain, after all), there was an upbeat feeling in the air, just the same. Old friends greeted one another with hearty hugs, and friends new to Spruce Lake were warmly welcomed and given plenty of opportunities to explore the grounds. Here are a few photos from the afternoon:
(1) Patsy Miller and her grandchildren sign up for some afternoon activities:
(2) Friends greet each other at the registration table.
(3) Staff naturalist Jana Atwell shows Hannah the Hawk to Open House guests.
(4) Guests visit inside the Program Center during dessert (ice cream sundaes).
(5) Board member Robert L. Bergey and his wife, Elizabeth talk with Terry Derstine (R), Spruce Lake's Advocate and president of Executive Promotions/Geiger.

Spruce Lake's recent "hard-copy" newsletter, Reflections, featured an intentionally placed grammatical mistake that many people make in everyday writing. It has even been seen in newspapers and on the occasional public sign! We offered a pint of maple syrup to the first caller with the correct answer.

Virginia Close (known as Ginny) from Schwenksville, PA, was the first and only caller to identify the hidden error. Several other callers gave us a run for our money, so to speak, as we even had to do a bit of research on those!

The correct mistake that Ginny identified was found on page seven, in the sentence, "As we maximize it's full potential, we can meet your needs and communicate ...." The word, it's, should be its, because it is not a contraction for the words, it is.

The contest provided us with a bit of fun. We thank all who participated in the contest by calling us with their answers.

The Barrett Township Concerned Citizens group awarded Spruce Lake a Certificate of Participation April 24th for helping with road clean-up efforts during the Barrett Township Community Clean-Up Day and the Great Pennsylvania Clean-up. The award coincided with Earth Week activities in Barrett Township, the beautiful area in which Spruce Lake is located.

Staff who volunteered to pick up road litter in April for this effort were Doug Musselman, Grace Nolt, Celine Krummell and her husband, Rich.

These staff, along with Topher Maddox and the Tom Swartley family, will also be volunteering for Pennsylvania's Adopt-A-Highway program, of which Spruce Lake has been a part for several years. Spruce Lake's adopted section, kept clean by staff, includes Long Road and Rt. 447 all the way up the mountain to the Pike County line.

A century of research by the Center for Summer Learning shows that all students lose academic ground over summer, and even the best schools may not be enough to guarantee academic achievement.

Summer camp, however, can be that link in the channel of success!

The camp setting is the ultimate experiential classroom, wrote Marla Coleman in the March/April issue of Camping published by American Camping Association. At camp, Marla continued, children "learn a different set of R's -- Respect, Responsibility, Resourcefulness and Resilience." Youth development research is clear that children cannot become successful adults without achieving these three R's.

"Because Spruce Lake's purpose is to point people toward Christ," said Spruce Lake's Wilderness Camp Director Eric Kauffman, "these alternative R's are really a natural part of our Wilderness Camp experience."

First of all, our counselors try to set up an atmosphere of trust and responsibility in each tent group, so campers can speak openly and learn how to live in close proximity with others for a week. Here, campers also learn to respect others, take responsibility for their choices, and are encouraged to be creative in solving problems or challenges -- attitudes and skills that will last for life!"

Spruce Lake Wilderness Camp is accredited by American Camp Association.

Jordan Chang will be on Spruce Lake's summer staff team for the very first time in 2010, yet this will also be his 14th summer of service at Spruce Lake with the disability ministry, Joni and Friends! Here's the story in his words of how these experiences have changed his life:

I am really excited about having the opportunity to spend my summer at Spruce Lake! I am currently a first-year graduate student at Shenandoah University in Winchester, Virginia, working toward my doctorate in Physical Therapy. I graduated with my bachelor's degree in Human Nutrition, Food and Exercise from Virginia Tech in May, 2009.

I have been volunteering with Joni and Friends at Spruce Lake since 1997 -- this will be my 14th year! My time with Joni and Friends at Spruce Lake is a big reason for my pursuing a career as a physical therapist. The families whom I have had the opportunity of service are the reasons I keep coming back!

I feel blessed that Adult & Family Ministries Director Eric Horst approached me with the opportunity to be on the Spruce Lake staff this summer. I'm excited about getting on the inside of the operations at Spruce Lake after spending a good part of my past 14 summers there. I'm looking forward to the challenges, from teaching lessons to lifeguarding.

I'm also excited about being surrounded by other Christians whom I can learn from, be accountable to, and continue to grow alongside in my faith.

PHOTO: Jordan Chang is working toward his doctorate in Physical Therapy, a life direction resulting from his experiences at Spruce Lake.

The youth group from Clinton Frame Mennonite Church will be the first to take part in a newly developed voluntary service package designed by Spruce Lake's Adult & Family Ministries Director Eric Horst.

The group will pay a reduced rate for their stay, rather than volunteering in a direct exchange for meals and lodging. However, in return for their cost, Spruce Lake will provide the group with services that save their leaders time or effort, devotionals, music or leadership coaching, for example.

The youth from Clinton Frame Mennonite participate in a service adventure somewhere every other year. "We thought that Spruce Lake would be a place that could accommodate a group the size of ours," said youth sponsor Amy Springer. Approximately 50 youth plus leaders will arrive in July, with about 1/3 of the group volunteering their skills during Spruce Lake's July Family Week. The balance of the group will travel to Stroudsburg Wesleyan Church to help with community outreach.

This guest story was told to us recently by Sib Charles, Eastern PA Program Director of the disability ministry, Joni and Friends. Joni and Friends hosts three Family Camps each summer at Spruce Lake.

One moment 20 years ago, Dan Patterson was an active young man. But the next second, an accident rendered him quadriplegic!

About 11 years after the accident, Dan and his wife, Barb, attended their first Family Camp at Spruce Lake with Joni and Friends. There he was hit by another life-changing moment.

Dan had agreed to contribute a song for that week's upcoming Talent Show. The show is a big deal; it's an opportunity for everyone, of every ability, to showcase something unique and special that they can do.

However, the only Christian song he knew well enough to offer was the hymn, "How Great Thou Art." The afternoon before the event, Dan rolled his chair down the lawn and settled in by the barbecue pit to practice. As he sat there soaking up the sun's warmth, he started to sing his chosen song: "Then sings my soul, my Savior God to thee ...."

Just then, his voice which had been threatening to give out all day, became more hoarse than ever. It began to dawn on him that, even though he was losing his voice, he was finally beginning to understand the meaning of the words he was singing. He also realized that he would need God's help not just to get him through the show that night but to get him through life! So there by the barbecue pit, Dan took his first steps as a changed man.

Soon after that experience, Dan joined the choir at Calvary Church in Lancaster, PA. He began traveling with Joni and Friends staff to sing and share his testimony. He had the grand experience of singing the Lord's Prayer at his daughter's wedding. Wherever he went, Dan inspired people, always giving the praises to God. In a single moment, God was able to redeem even quadriplegia for bringing Dan closer to himself.

It was a sad yet happy day this past December 12, 2009, when Dan Patterson went home to be with Jesus. Along with the tears was celebrating for a new life without quadriplegia! There was also much rejoicing in the truth of that song Dan had practiced in the sunshine by the barbecue pit ... "Then Sings My Soul, My Savior God to Thee!"

PHOTO: Dan Patterson dressed up in a Mexican outfit for a Joni and Friends Talent Show at Spruce Lake.

Monday, April 12, 2010, was the first day in the office for Individual Reservations Coordinator Amy Carr. She replaces Lauri Celentano, who moved to Maryland closer to family.

Amy, who lives in Elmhurst, PA, is no newcomer to Spruce Lake, though. Son Rob (15) has been a Wilderness Camper for a couple of years, and this summer, daughter Emily (13) is looking forward to her first time at camp. Also, the private Christian school the children attend near Scranton, PA, Geneva School, has come to Spruce Lake Outdoor School on field trips. And last summer, Amy and her family were volunteers at Spruce Lake. "We had a great time!" she exclaimed with a cheery smile.

Amy had just begun the process of looking for some new work and when she heard of the opening, her husband encouraged her to apply.

"Camp was a big part of my life growing up," Amy said, "and being here reminds me of that!" Amy says she enjoys working with people -- her years as an art teacher and volunteer at Geneva School can prove that! She is also looking forward to the staff camaraderie and being able to offer a spiritual presence for others.

As Individual Reservations Coordinator, Amy will be in charge of all individual and events programming reservations and all seasonal campsite reservations.

PHOTO: Welcome Individual Reservations Coordinator Amy Carr!

Staff member Gordon Yoder recently told Executive Director Mark Swartley that the "Red Van is dead!"

The vehicle known as the Red Van had worked hard for a number of years, traveling many miles near and far on Spruce Lake errands and trips. It had been showing signs of wear and tear for some time, with increasing severe creakings and groanings coming from various body parts. Mark wondered what to do about that van every time he walked by it, parked in its spot next to Spruce Lodge.

Then he got a call that seemed like manna from heaven ...."Hello, Mark, we have a van here for you!"

The blue 15-passenger Chevy van was a larger vehicle than Mark had envisioned but it surely was an answer to prayer! The van was one no longer needed by Mennonite Disaster Service. It had been well-maintained inside and out, and even though the mileage was high, it had been running the open road for all those miles. There was no question in Mark's mind ... yes, yes, of course we'll take the van!

The timeliness of the offer is so amazing, as again God provides for our needs through his people!.

PHOTO: Spruce Lake's new blue Chevy van.

The building known as the Old Chapel is getting a facelift and a new purpose!

Located next to Lakeview Program Center, this building was once the home of the Outdoor School office on one half, and on the other, the worship sanctuary of Spruce Lake Fellowship, a Franconia Mennonite Conference congregation which used to meet on the grounds of Spruce Lake Retreat.

Since the Fellowship closed several years ago, the building was used as a backup meeting room but with some reluctance, as it was in distinct need of a touch-up.

So work began at the beginning of April, 2010, to renovate the interior. (The exterior had been repainted last fall.) The interior divider was removed so that now the entire room is spacious and open with windows for sunshine and breezes. A new drop ceiling and new carpet will be in place by next week, all making this an attractive, welcoming space for groups of up to approximately 100 people. The work will be finished by the end of this month.

By the way, the Old Chapel has a new name ... from now on, it will be known as Black Cherry.

PHOTOS: (1) The Old Chapel shows its new name. (2) Inside, the dividing wall has been removed and ceiling tile removed for a new drop ceiling. (3) A new support beam was crafted and put into place where the dividing wall used to be.

The Ten-Year Club of Spruce Lake Retreat recognizes staff who've served ten years or more, and enjoys a dinner out together every year. This spring, 2010, Lanee Kmieczak became the newest member of the group. Working part-time now that daughter Cameron has joined the family, Lanee is still serving as Wilderness Camp Program Manager. Previously, she also worked as a Spruce Lake Outdoor School instructor and as an administrative assistant for Lisa Ferrer, Outdoor School Director.

The group celebrated a pleasant evening together March 15th at Ehrhardt's Waterfront Restaurant along Lake Wallenpaupack, sharing good food, laughter and stories.

PHOTO: Here are Spruce Lake's Ten Year Club members, from left to right: Dawn Lantz, Maria Musselman, Herb Lantz, Lanee Kmieczak, Lisa Ferrer, Doug Musselman, Grace Nolt, Celine Krummell and Andy Trout. Missing from the photo are Jana Atwell and Dawn Flatt.

On March 8, 2010, Brian Espenshade stepped into his new role as Spruce Lake's Operations Manager. He will oversee retreat center housekeeping and custodial staff, and monitor guest recreational facilities, meeting rooms and audio-visual equipment.
Previously he'd served as Director of Operations and Program at Summit Grove, a Christian conference center in New Freedom, PA, and as Program Director at Merriwood Christian Camp in North Carolina.

Brian got his start in camping and retreat ministries through Word of Life Bible Institute in New York, and found out about Spruce Lake through Christian Camp & Conference Association events.

He and his wife, Lisa, both enjoy the outdoors — Lisa loves playing soccer and Brian enjoys hunting and fishing. Lisa's role for the time being at Spruce Lake is to be a stay-at-home mom for their two active sons, Kaden and Ethan.

PHOTO: We welcome the Espenshade family to Spruce Lake! From left to right, here are Brian and Lisa with their sons Kaden (4) and Ethan (2).

Stone Terrace renovations were finished in time for guests who arrived February 19th. The "family-in-residence" was the first to see and appreciate the refreshing updates to the building, especially the renovated showers and other bathroom fixtures. Always a "cute" and homey place of lodging, the building had nevertheless not received adequate attention over the years.

"Now I love taking staff through it!" said Facilities Director Steve Ykema. "It is life-giving for me to see their reactions."

Stone Terrace's largest room #50 has always a guest favorite because it is the only room on the grounds with its own fireplace. Now, with its refinished hardwood floor, new furniture and the fireplace, it may become our "honeymoon suite."

PHOTOS: These two pictures exemplify the contrasts of "before" and "after" renovations in Stone Terrace. (1) This is one of the rusting metal shower stalls prior to renovations. (2) Sparkling new showers, toilets, sinks and new cabinets have been installed in each bathroom.

After a hiatus of several years, Spruce Lake again plans to soon tap trees and let the sap flow this spring. Custodian Tom Swartley is now heading up the operation, which required relocating the sugar bush (designating new stands of trees for tapping), and installing new tubing.

For close to 10 years, Communications Coordinator Grace Nolt had been the "sugarmeister" at Spruce Lake, first learning from Elton Moshier who had pioneered maple sugaring at Spruce Lake in 1987. She enjoyed the outdoor work and the interest guests always had in learning about the process and, of course, tasting the syrup!

Maple syrup is not merely sweet; it's a pure, natural health food. Maple sap contains a healthy mix of calcium, manganese and other trace minerals, and when boiling off the water content, the resulting syrup is naturally sweet, nothing is added. It takes 40-45 gallons of sap to make one gallon of maple syrup.

Now, Tom will again be promoting sugaring for guest groups, families and Outdoor School students. He is also looking forward to the task! As before, Spruce Lake's syrup will be sold at Oak Leaf Gift Shop, perfect for gifts or as a staple in your fridge.

PHOTO: In January, volunteers from Blooming Glen (PA) Mennonite Church helped install new tubing for spring maple sugaring at Spruce Lake.

Six Spruce Lake Staff presented or co-led workshops at Christian Camp & Conference Association's Mid-Atlantic Sectional January 19-21, at Tuscarora Inn & Conference Center, Mt. Bethel, PA.

Outdoor Education Director Lisa Ferrer and instructors Rachel Erb, Connie Wismer and Simeon Paulson teamed up to present "Spiritual Outdoor Learning Opportunities" (SOLO) for engaging guests with the outdoors and opening their eyes to the spiritual truths inherent there.

Facilities Director Steve Ykema's workshop,"Proactive Maintenance Management," dealt with how to assess, prioritize, select, perform and plan for maintenance tasks before things "fall apart," and to learn to view the "same old site" with fresh new eyes.

Executive Director Mark Swartley, together with Mike Gehlert of Camp Conquest, addressed how to move staff through transition in their workshop, "Err on the Side of Grace," based on their experiences in leadership in both secular and Christian settings. The team highlighted ways to respond correctly to conflict and transition..

Alexandra Ferrer was named Spruce Lake’s new Guest Group Coordinator effective December 11, a member of the Front Office team. She replaces Clarke Banta who has served several years in that role. Clarke and his wife, Regena, are moving to the Staunton,Virginia, area in January to be closer to “the kids” and their grandchildren. We thank Clarke for his enthusiastic spirit and personable style in relating with guests and staff

Alex, as she is happy to be called, lives just a few miles up the mountain in Greentown, PA, and looks forward to working in Spruce Lake’s Christ-centered, natural setting. As Guest Group Coordinator, Alex will be responsible for organizing, scheduling and implementing guest group reservations, while expressing her heart for Christian hospitality.She worked previously at a local resort and also as a nanny.

Alex comes with a bright smile and a warm heart. "I enjoy working with people and am looking forward to working with guests!" Alex said.

PHOTOS: Alexandra (Alex) Ferrer, our new Guest Group Coordinator.

Extensive interior renovations to Spruce Lake’s Stone Terrace cottage began December 2 with the help of a volunteer family group who literally tore the “guts” out of the building. Stone Terrace is a pretty little building but its age was seriously showing. (We're not sure when the building was built but we do know it was well before Spruce Lake started up in 1963.)

The work is expected to be completed by the end of January, with the demolition work, windows and possibly other jobs being contributed by volunteers. The balance of the renovations will be finished by Spruce Lake staff. Once restored and refreshed, Stone Terrace will have new, modernized bathrooms in place, new furniture, new doors and windows and other fixtures. Room #50 will keep its uniqueness as the lovely room with the fireplace and will be even more pleasant then before with the modernizing it is receiving.

PHOTOS: (1) Old Stone Terrace furniture and fixtures temporarily tossed onto the lawn. (2)(3)(4) Volunteers tear out fixtures
and walls to prepare for extensive interior renovation work. (5) New doors are already hung as the project moves along.

Eric Kauffman has been appointed the new director of Spruce Lake Wilderness Camp, effective November 16, 2009.

Kauffman will move from his current role as Operations Manager for the retreat center. As Wilderness Camp director, he replaces Kent Kauffman (not related), who is moving to Virginia to become the Executive Director of Highland Retreat.

Eric Kauffman's passion for young people and his depth of experience -- as youth minister, assistant camp director and adventure leader for at-risk youth, a trip guide, recreation leader, youth mentor and counselor -- will provide a solid foundation for Wilderness Camp leadership. His creativity and team-building skills will contribute to an already strong camp management team.

Currently, Kauffman is progressing toward a Masters in Practical Theology and Organizational Leadership from Regent University, VA. He has also earned a bachelor's degree in Bible and Recreation from Philadelphia Biblical University, where he received a President's Scholarship and Leadership awards and was on the PBU Dean's List.

Kauffman has volunteered as a counselor for young men at a local Pregnancy Care Center, mentored teens at the YMCA, and served as an assistant high school soccer coach.

"I see Spruce Lake Wilderness Camp as an exciting opportunity for campers and staff to step away from a comfortable, media-saturated life," Kauffman said, "into a setting where they can sense God in new ways."

"I have observed first-hand how summer camp can challenge and revitalize both campers and staff. As a couple (with my wife, Sarah), our passion has evolved into mentoring young adults toward an authentic and full relationship with Christ." Kauffman said. "Spruce Lake Wilderness Camp is an ideal environment for mentoring youth, and it provides a series of teachable moments as staff counsel and interact with campers."

Spruce Lake Wilderness Camp, in ministry since 1963, now serves over 1,000 young people ages 7-18 each summer, with about 140 campers per session, and over 100 young people ages 11-18 in off-site adventure trips to a variety of places in central eastern United States.

Spruce Lake Wilderness Camp is accredited by American Camping Association and is a member of Christian Camp & Conference Association and Mennonite Camping Association.

PHOTOS: (1) Eric Kauffman, (2) Eric with his wife, Sarah.

Three willing people were each presented and confirmed for three-year terms of service on Spruce Lake's Board of Directors by members of Franconia Mennonite Camp Association at the October 19 meeting held at Christopher Dock Mennonite High School, Lansdale, PA. Each of these new directors comes with a passion for retreat and camp ministries, and Spruce Lake in particular.

Franconia Mennonite Camp Association is a body of individuals who care about and support Spruce Lake's ministries. One does not need to be part of an Anabaptist group to become a member of the Association. Persons selected for service with the Board do need to be Association members and active in an Anabaptist congregation.

First, we introduce Joanne Brenneman Spiegle, who is a physician and radiologist at Doylestown Hospital and its affiliates. She interprets all diagnostic radiology exams, subspecializing in CTs and MRIs. She is also a Doylestown Hospice and Keystone Opportunity Council supporter. Active in the life of Blooming Glen Mennonite Church, she teaches Sunday School and is a small group leader and volunteer. She lives in Telford, PA, with husband Wayne, and children Elizabeth (Goshen College junior) and Rachel (Christopher Dock high school senior.)

Joanne's long history of involvement at Spruce Lake began with her parents, Paul ("Doc") and Grace Brenneman. Doc is a founding board member of Spruce Lake. Since then, Joanne spent time on Spruce Lake's staff, served as a volunteer and participated in many of our retreats.

Next is Merle Ressler, a leader of Spruce Lake's Hymn Sing Weekend for the past 25 years and frequent "resident" at their seasonal camper with his wife, Rosene, and daughters Kelsey and Ashley.His musical interests also have him directing the Mennonite Central Committee Relief Sale Chorus for the past 21 years, and singing in the Weaverland Male Quartet for the past 10 years.

Merle is owner/partner of Fisher & Thompson, Inc., a dairy/milking company in Lancaster County, PA, employing 103 people for sales and service in Pennsylvania and neighboring states.

Our third new board member is Mike Ford, currently Senior High Youth Pastor at Franconia Mennonite Church, since 2007. For 11 years prior to that, he'd served Camp Hebron as Program Director.

Mike was our Wilderness Camp Fireside speaker for Navigators Youth Week in 2008, and with his wife, Valerie, has led Navigators Camp breakout sessions. He is also an occasional speaker at national and regional events for Christian Camp & Conference Association, and has served on the planning committee for Mennonite Camping Association.