> > REGISTER FOR SUMMER TOGETHER ONLINE NOW... < < |
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Week 1 of Summer Together – A vacation just for Homeschool Families!
Then there would be all sorts of activities that someone else has planned, allowing you to just have fun with your kids and take a break from “Will you quit flipping your pencil and just finish?? It’s only 8 problems!!” Speaking of that, you’d be hanging out with a whole bunch of other parents who have “been there, done that” and are still doing it. In fact, the whole week would be designed not as a “nuts and bolts, 3 steps to easy homeschooling” conference, but for encouragement! So the Bible teaching, fellowship, worship, and commiseration and everything else would refresh and energize you, while at the same time you’d be developing a network of support for down the road… And everyone would have at least 5 kids, and some would even wear matching t-shirts, and nobody would care because they would all be having so much fun with their friends, and climbing rock walls, and playing 147 rounds of mini golf! You’d sign up for something like that, wouldn’t you? That’s what we figured, so we went ahead and put it together already. You can poke around on here for more details, but don’t wait too long to register – this week fills up early!
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 Week 1: June 27- July 2, 2010With Michael Card
A singer, songwriter and author whose goal in life is to simply, and quietly teach the Bible. Ironically, his fame has spread, winning multiple Dove Awards and Gold Medallion Book Awards. In everything he does, Card seeks to encourage his audience to join him in his own journey to know and be known by God by asking questions and entering into meaningful discussion with one another.
Life Coach: Joe Denner Fun Together!
I majored in recreation in college. No, really. I mean I goofed off too, but I actually have a degree in recreation. One of my professors holds a PhD. in Recreation and Leisure, and in Honduras where he takes students on trips, that translates in Spanish to a “Doctor of Doing Nothing.” Sometimes doing nothing is just what the doctor ordered. And so is doing stuff just for fun! Recreation… Being re-created. So swim, sing, swing and zip! Climb, dive, putt, paint, and parasail! Sit, talk, marvel, and meditate… Do all that and more. Or do nothing. Doctors orders. I’ll even sign your prescription! Nate
Special guest
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DonB! is a one man variety show, and our favorite professional goofball. He’ll be here clowning around, spinning plates, juggling things, riding his unicycle and doing tricks this summer! Your whole family will love Don, and will look forward to seeing what he’ll do next.
WATCH OUR VIDEO:
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We have something for everyone of all ages and interests, although some of our activities are "age graded" for maximum safety and enjoyment of the participants.
"Making great memories with my children doing all these fun activities was priceless. Watching my daughter reach the top of the climbing wall was a thrill!"
~ Derrick, Holmdel, NJ
Free time is fun time at Sandy Cove… not ONLY for the exercise, or to cool off, or to experience an adrenaline rush or to get sore muscles and feel like you’ve accomplished something…
When we play together, we build bonds, strengthen relationships and make memories, and that’s what it’s all about
Fun recreational activities for all ages!
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Summer Fun Activities available during Summer Together
Fun stuff available at scheduled times:
- Swimming
- Enclosed sports pool and hot tub
- Outdoor swimming pools/ kiddie pool. Modest swimsuits are required for adults and children (one-piece for girls of all age, baggy shorts for men and boys)
- High Adventure & Marina
These activities require a signed waiver and may have minimum age limits for participation- Trapeze
- Zip line (must be at least 12 years old)
- Big swing (must be at least 12 years old)
- Rock climbing wall (must be at least 8 years old)
- Waterskiing
- Wave cutter/tube rides
- Pontoon boat cruises
Fun stuff available almost any time you want to play:
- Fitness center
- Basketball/volleyball/softball (courts open for general use, but look for tournament times too!)
- Soccer/tennis (look for tournament times too!)
- Fishing (license required)
- Miniature golf/shuffleboard/ Frisbee Golf (look for tournament times too!)
- Playgrounds
- Nature trail
- Ping-pong/billiards/ foosball/air hockey (look for tournament times too!)
- Shopping! Visit the Sandy Cove Gift Shop, the Treasure Chest Thrift Shop or the quaint town of North East
- Check out the Local Attractions
> Return to top of fun
ClubCove and CrossWalk
While the cats are away (in adult Bible teaching, or maybe holding hands down by the river) the mice will play! (and sing, and learn from God’s Word, and eat snacks).
It's great to have family fun time, but what about time just to be adults?
During our five-night Summer Together weeks, kids will have a much anticipated opportunity to spend time with kids their own age. Activities are planned for every age group, each with its own Bible study. The hours are filled with swimming, crafts, games, sports, music, and new friends! Meanwhile, parents enjoy their own times of worship and fellowship… Your family will gather together again for meals, afternoon fun and other special activities!
" . . . how much my grandchildren received spiritually at Sandy Cove. My daughter called to let me know that it is all they are talking about. My grandson is very clear about what a commitment to Christ means and that he intends to walk with the Lord."
~ Lorraine in Pittsburgh, PA
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ClubCove
Kids are divided into age groups from infant through age 11!
- Infants from 0-3 are part of “ClubCrib” – which allows them special early drop off times in ClubCove
- Babies are well-cared for - with accommodations for napping and changing. You may see them getting stroller rides around Sandy Cove!
- Bible lessons and singing are an integral part of ClubCove
- The younger kids enjoy the ClubCove wagon rides!
- Fun activities include playground time, crafts, swimming, water games, mini-golf, scavenger hunts and lots more!
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CrossWalk!
This high energy program has been designed to meet the needs of your Jr. and Sr. High students.
- Intentional Bible study designed to help students grow as disciples of Christ
- Separate Junior and Senior High Bible teaching sessions taught by experienced pastors and youth pastors
- Special activities planned and facilitated by dedicated CrossWalk staff who have the energy and expertise to create spectacular experiences
What does it cost?
The ClubCove and CrossWalk programs are included for our Summer Together guests at no additional cost.
About the Staff
For the safety of your children a background check is done on every applicant over the age of 18, which is also required by law.
The ClubCove and CrossWalk directors, professionals in the fields of childcare and/or youthwork, not only supervise the staff, but work alongside of them to provide a safe and fun experience for your children. In addition, many of our staff are Elementary and Secondary Education college majors with "hands-on" experience with children and young adults.
There are always 2 staff working together with groups of children, to ensure no child is left alone with a single staff member. If you have concerns, please feel free to contact us at info@sandycove.org.
Summer Week Rates
Per person rate includes 5-nights lodging, all children's programs, on-site recreation and fun … including all non-motorized waterfront activities, teaching, worship and concerts. Lodge packages include 15 all-you-can-eat meals. Campground packages include Thursday dinner.
6-days & 5-nights in 2010
| Housing | Per Person | Family Max |
| Wilderness Campsite | $125 | $500 |
| Pioneer Campsite | $160 | $640 |
| Rustic Cabin* | $245 | $980 |
| Log Cabin* | $345 | $1380 |
| Chesapeake Lodge | $525 | $2100 |
*Please note: Cabins require a minimum payment of the family max rate.
Kids 0-3 are FREE!
Finances a little tight?
Please don't let finances keep you away! Scholarships are available for up to 50% off!
Family Max Rate
If you have over 4 FAMILY** members in your room or on your site-they are FREE!
The purpose of family max pricing is to provide affordability for parents with children through a simplified rate structure. We generally define "family" as related members living in the same household. Please remember, due to fire codes all housing options have a maximum occupancy.
**If you wish to share the Sandy Cove Summer Together experience with additional guests who do not fit the family max guidelines, and have them stay in your room or site with your family, they are welcome to do so at the regular per person rate.
Need more room?
Want a 2-room suite? Add $325.Need an extra room if your family exceeds the maximum? Just ask, it's free for Homeschool Week! (Add $325 per family for Summer Together Weeks 2 - 6.) Based on availability.
Are you holding a family reunion? At least three rooms and 10 people – receive a 10% discount. Click here.
Need more nights?
Want to stay an additional night or two, before or after your 5-night stay?- Wilderness Campsite: $35 per site
- Pioneer Campsite: $45 per site
- Rustic Cabin: $70 per site
- Log Cabin: $120 per site
- Lodge: $99 per night for 2 people (breakfast included, additional fee per extra family member, not available July 23-25).
Payment Options
- Pay in full at time of reservation
- Pay 50% at time of reservation, remaining 50% due by May 1, 2010 (authorization for automatic payment at 6 months prior must be given at time of initial payment)
- Pay equal monthly payments from the time of reservation until May 1, 2010.
Register Now!
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We are now accepting registrations for Chesapeake Lodge Accommodations online!
Register online now!
Payment Options
- Pay in full at time of reservation
- Pay 50% at time of reservation, remaining 50% due by May 1, 2010 (authorization for automatic payment at 6 months prior must be given at time of initial payment)
- Pay equal monthly payments from the time of reservation until May 1, 2010.
If you need to CANCEL, here's how:
- Cancellation before May 1, 2010: your monies paid to date will be refunded LESS $100.
- Cancellation after May 1, 2010: forfeit your full payment…unless we or you can fill your space with another family.
- Non-payment of your balance when due may cause the cancellation of your reservation.
To make a reservation in the campgrounds, call Marsha or Sue at 800.234.COVE (2683).
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Spin that Kaleidoscope!
Your family is unique! Just like everyone else’s. ;) So no family will go through a day exactly the same way, because we build in lots of options knowing that everyone’s needs are a little different.
You’ll get a complete schedule, with all the details at check in. But a typical day could look something like this:
| 7:23 am | Rise and Shine Family Brown Bag Devotions |
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| 8:27 | Breakfast | |
| 9:32 | Drop off baby Smith at ClubCrib (what we call ClubCove for 0-3 yr olds) | |
| 9:39 | Family worship in the Chesapeake Auditorium | |
| 10:17 | Kids / Teens: head out to their ClubCove / CrossWalk classes Adults: Dig into God’s word with Michael Card |
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| 11:32 | Kids / Teens: still with ClubCove / CrossWalk classes Adults: Spaghetti Session…where noodles are used (Thanks! I’ll be here all week!) |
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| 12:13 pm | Round up the kids and head in to LUNCH! | |
| 1:01 | Volleyball tournament, to the moonbounce, to the pool, on to the craft shop, then mini golf… Or Big Swing, to parasailing, to kayaking, to the galley to Frisbee golf. Or any one of 3 million other permutations possible each afternoon! |
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| 5:37 | Dinner time (good food, plenty and often!) | |
| 6:57 | More permutations! | |
| In general, mornings are a combination of worship/ClubCove/CrossWalk/adult session/processing, afternoons are free time activities, and evenings are a combination of all of that. | ||
Where to sleep?
When you register, you’ll choose the Chesapeake Lodge package or a Campground package. Each includes all of the program and activities of Summer Together, including ClubCove and CrossWalk.
Lodge
The Lodge package includes 15 meals.
The Chesapeake Lodge has 150 guest rooms on three floors.
Check in at 4 pm / Check out at 10 am
Rooms are non-smoking, have a telephone with voice mail, clock radio, independent thermostats, and daily modified housekeeping service.
Portable cribs are available upon request.
Choose from these room types:
Standard Deluxe Room
One queen-size bed, two twin-size beds (extra long), table with two chairs, and full bath. Sleeps four; one optional stowaway bed available.
Handicap Access Room
Doorways to accommodate a wheelchair, queen-size bed with two twin-size sofa beds, desk with chair, arm chair, walk-in shower with chair/rails. Each Handicap Access room connects to a standard deluxe room (sold separately). Sleeps four; one optional stowaway bed available. Number of rooms available: 3.
Family Deluxe Room
One queen-size bed, two twin-size beds (extra long), two twin-size sofa beds, table with two chairs, full bath, and double sink. Sleeps six; one optional stowaway bed available.
Center Parlor
King-size bed, table and two chairs, desk with chair, lounge chair, and full bath. Sleeps two; one optional stowaway bed available.
Number of rooms available: 4.
Standard Suite
Two rooms: parlor has two twin-size sofa beds, desk with chair, and an armchair. Bedroom has queen-size bed and a chair. Full bath, and iron and ironing board. Sleeps four; one optional stowaway bed available.
Deluxe Suite
Two rooms: parlor has two twin-size sofa beds, desk with chair, table with two chairs, and an armchair. Bedroom has queen-size bed and a chair. Full bath, refrigerator, microwave, iron and ironing board, and a corner view to water. Sleeps four; one optional stowaway bed available. Number of rooms available: 3.
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Master Suite
Two rooms: parlor has two twin-size sofa beds, desk with chair, lounge chair, table with two chairs. Bedroom has king-size bed and arm chair, full bath with shower stall, Jetted-style bathtub and double sink. Refrigerator, microwave, iron and ironing board, and corner view to water. Sleeps four; one optional stowaway bed available. Number of rooms available: 3.
Campground
The Campground package includes Thursday banquet.
Check in at 1 pm for campsites / 3 pm for cabins
Check out at 11 am
Choose from:
Log cabins
Log cabins are also available in the Pioneer Campground. Most measure 27' x 14'7", with a 6' porch. One handicap-accessible cabin is available. There is one set of bunkbeds in one room, a living area with a futon, a separate bedroom with a double bed and a loft with 2 single beds; each sleeps a maximum of 8 people and includes a full bathroom. Each has A/C and heat, and a kitchen unit with a refrigerator/freezer, 2-burner stove, microwave, sink and table with 4 chairs. No linens, kitchen supplies, nor housekeeping services are provided. Charcoal grill available on site. A two-night minimum stay is required.
Rustic cabins
The rustic cabins, located in the Pioneer Campground, are air-conditioned cabins that sleep a maximum of 6 people and include a full bathroom. One room has a queen bed, one room has 2 sets of bunk beds. No linens, kitchen facilities nor housekeeping services are provided.
Charcoal grill, fire ring and picnic table available on site. A two-night minimum stay is required.
Pioneer campsites (campers and RVs)
Campers desiring 2- or 3-point hookup should consider a site in the Pioneer Campground, which accommodates trailers and motor homes. A central bathhouse is available for campers needing restroom and shower facilities, and the Pioneer Campground also has fire rings. The main conference center, including the tennis courts, basketball courts, and playground is a comfortable walk from the campground. The camp pool, camp store, and laundry facilities are located at the entrance of the Pioneer Campground. Maximum occupancy: 8. A two-night minimum stay is required.
Map of the Pioneer Campground (PDF)
Wilderness campsites (campers, RVs, and tents)
The Wilderness Campground is a wooded camping area located near the entrance of Sandy Cove and is approximately 1 mile from the main conference center. Sites vary in the Wilderness Campground and can accommodate tents, trailers, and motorhomes. All sites have fire rings and are available either with or without electricity. A centrally located bathhouse provides campers with restroom and shower facilities as well as a place to empty an RV's holding tank. The Wilderness Campground provides campers with a quiet and peaceful camping setting. Maximum occupancy: 8. A two-night minimum stay is required.
Map of the Wilderness Campground (PDF)
Time to Eat!
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If you are a guest staying in the lodge, meals are a part of your package. These are served buffet style, typically with a “kiddie bar” featuring items kids are more willing to eat, as well as the regular “adult food” buffet. Please wear your name tags to meals, and eat all food within the dining room, instead of carrying it elsewhere. If you or a family member has food allergies, or other medically related food restrictions we can help with that – just fill out the “Food for Thought” form included in your pre-event letter. Then let your server know when you come, so they can connect you with alternative food items when required.
If you are a guest in the Campgrounds, food is not included in that package, so you will want to plan accordingly. The log cabins have kitchenettes, but you’ll need to bring your own pots and pans.
Special banquet!
On Thursday evening, there is a banquet for the adults, while the kids eat pizza with their ClubCove / CrossWalk groups for dinner. If you have very young children you will have a chance to feed them before dropping them off at ClubCove. Adults from the campground are invited to the banquet as well, for no extra cost. This banquet is a good opportunity to dress up a little, but we’ll still feed you if a Hawaiian shirt and flip flops are the best you can do. Teens are permitted to join their parents at the banquet provided they sign up at the KWC before noon on Tuesday, and commit to participating as an adult throughout the evening, right up through 8:30 pm.
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Snacks?
The Galley is our poolside snack shop, with a good lineup of sandwiches, and other “real food” besides the ice cream, milkshakes, candy, drinks, etc. They have hours each afternoon and evening, and offer a reasonably priced alternative to “roughing it” for lunch out there in the campgrounds, as well as snacks between meals for everyone!
The Campground Store offers some of the basics – including candy, drinks and ice cream novelties.
There are several vending areas for drinks and snacks in the lodge, and there is also complimentary coffee 24 hours a day at the Kalbach Welcome Center and morning and evening at the Front Desk.
Other stuff you might want to know!
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Standards of Conduct
We are not really about rules, but hopefully you have seen that we are big on community. Part of this involves everyone looking out for the interests of others, for the benefit of all. For example, many appreciate Sandy Cove as a safe place for their family, but that only happens when the rest of the community makes it so. This means that instead of taking a vacation from their kids, parents are still actively supervising them, knowing where they are and what they are doing at all times. This also involves guests recognizing that other guests may be resting in their rooms and limiting noise and activity in the halls and near the sleeping areas. (particularly after 10 PM) We all have rights, but in community, sometimes we can be so right, we are wrong… This is a great environment to teach, model, and practice consideration of others. Sandy Cove Guidelines
Clothing
Dress at Sandy Cove is casual, and you should prepare for temperature extremes. Outside is typically hot and humid; inside the lodge is generally 42 degrees. (OK, it just feels like that when you come inside on some afternoons) In keeping with the idea of community mentioned above, we encourage the idea of dressing modestly. Naturally, there is a wide range of opinion on what this actually looks like, but the goal is to avoid being a temptation or distraction to others, particularly of the opposite gender. So, clothing that is very tight, low cut, revealing, etc, is best left at home. Also, we promote, and to a degree require, modesty at the pool. Our guideline is that everyone wear a “one piece, modest” bathing suit. This means baggy trunks or board shorts for the guys instead of Speedos. (And for the record, boxer shorts and/or cut offs are right out!) It’s trickier with the gals, as some tankinis have good, modest coverage, and we smile on that… Where some one piece suits are cut (low, high and in between) in a way that does not cover very well, and we frown on that – well, only half a second before asking you to put on a t-shirt and carry on. Let’s all remember the goal, as many in the community appreciate the efforts of others in keeping our pool and waterfront moderately modest. (redundant, I know, but I like it!)
Photography Permission
Wouldn’t you like to see your family’s smiling face in next year’s brochure? Our staff photographer/ videographer will be taking candid and posed shots all summer long to use in publications and promotions for Sandy Cove or future Sandy Cove programs and events. If you are opposed to having your picture taken and possibly used in this way, simply indicate that to the staff member with the camera, and your wishes will be respected. Otherwise, your registration for this event indicates your permission to use your photo for promotional purposes.
Location
Secluded yet easy to reach, Sandy Cove Christian Conference Center rises majestically beside the headwaters of the Chesapeake Bay. Situated on 220 acres of woodland in North East, Maryland, this elegant facility features 150 lodge rooms, three fireplaces, a full-service dining room, and cozy sitting areas overlooking the bay. Get the map and complete directions here.
Technology
We encourage people to disconnect (from cell phones, TV, computer, etc) in order to reconnect (with God, family and friends) and this is the main reason we do not have televisions in the guest rooms. Even people with initial misgivings about this are usually thankful for a break from TV by the end of their stay. We also understand that not everyone can completely disconnect, and therefore we have several wireless hot spots in areas of the lodge, as well as a business center. You may ask the Front Desk to help you get set up in the Business Center, which is just off the Main Lobby. The center is intended for adult use rather than unsupervised use by youth and children. There is also a TV room at the end of the red hallway on the 1st level you can access with your room key, as well as a TV in the fitness center. Cell coverage is generally good on the grounds, but can diminish the “deeper” you get into the lodge.
Shopping
We have a Bookstore / Gift Shop here that sells everything from books and apparel to Advil and a replacement toothbrush for one you forgot… Also, you can order CD copies of the messages through the bookstore.
If you are thrifty, (and these days, who isn’t?) the Treasure Chest will be something you’ll want to check out. Staffed by volunteers, the Treasure Chest is full of donated clothes, shoes, books, household items, and the luggage of last week’s guest who did not check out by 10 AM… They are open each afternoon, across from the sand volleyball court.
The Craft Shop is also shopping, but with “some assembly required”… It is open Monday – Thursday afternoons, with projects for a variety of interests and budgets.
LifeCoach
We have a different LifeCoach here each week of the summer – they are individuals who will be doing some teaching, and also a lot of listening. They are especially skilled in helping people process and sort through what is going on in their lives, in order to become more like Jesus and respond to life’s circumstances in the best possible way. If that sounds good to you, listen for details about how you can sign up for a meeting with the LifeCoach while you are here.
Can we bring our pets?
No. (well, maybe…) Though we don’t allow pets here at Sandy Cove in the lodge or the campgrounds, there is a beautiful, new, pet boarding facility a mile before you get to Sandy Cove on Rt. 272. Call Chesapeake Country Pet Lodge (410-287-6670) for more information.
Other Questions and Answers
Q. Can we bring our bikes?
A. You can, but there are not really any good places to ride them. Our road is narrow and has many blind curves, and everything else is sidewalk or parking lot with cars and/or people. Some of the campgrounders use bikes in the campground and for some back and forth, but in general their safety liability outweighs their helpfulness, so it’s not worth the trouble. If you choose to bring bikes, please bring and wear helmets. For bikers under 16, helmets aren’t just a good idea – they are the law.
Q. What about skateboards?
A. Ditto the above.
Q. Can we bring our boat?
A. Yes. (maybe) Our marina is tidal, and tends to be rather shallow. Therefore boats do best on moorings, away from our floating docks. We have a few extra moorings for guests to use, and we can also help launch you. (Though it typically takes high tide, and our tractor to do it) It is best to call ahead to discuss specifics with Nate (ex. 432) before trailering in. If you are calling one of our campgrounds home, please know that your boat/trailer cannot live at your site with you. You may park them in the large parking lot between the tennis courts and the playground.
Q. Well what can I bring??
A. Sometimes people forget sunglasses, sunscreen, favorite hat, flip flops, softball glove, swimsuit (one piece, modest, of course), camera, Bible, notebook, beach towel, blanket, blanket (for sitting out on the grass in our “amphitheater”), bug spray, Pittsburgh Steelers t-shirt, fishing pole, toothbrush, and/or a smile (we have extras of these, we can give you one).
Q. What should I forget?
A. Don’t pack firearms, fireworks, fire ants, illegal drugs, alcohol, llamas or javelins.
Q. How much money should I bring?
A. All of it. You won’t actually spend that much – sure there is the Treasure Chest, the Galley, the Craft Shop, the Bookstore, parasailing, and the soda machine, but beyond that it’s all included… But that just leaves more for the offering on Thursday, right?
Q. What is the water in front of Sandy Cove and can I fish there?
A. Technically, it’s the North East River, untechnically, the top of the Chesapeake Bay, poetically “the headwaters of the bay” Any who, you can fish from our pier (being aware of other guests walking by) or the rip-rap or jetty. (casting off the jetty AWAY from the canoeing area.) Maryland/Chesapeake Bay regulations apply, and licenses can be purchased at Wal-mart on Route 40, or Herb’s Tackle Shop on Main Street in North East.
Q. Can I do laundry at Sandy Cove?
A. Sure! The housekeepers will be glad for the help. Oh. You mean your own laundry? Yes, you can do that too – both the lodge and the Pioneer Campground have coin op laundry facilities.
Q. What’s this I hear about parasailing?
A. Yeah we have a subcontractor, Captain Glenn, who runs Old Town Parasailing and comes over here during the summer to pick up business. Stop by the welcome center for more info, and you can sign up and pay there as well. Rides are $45 per person for about 10 minutes, which is a pretty good deal…
Q. And a flying trapeze? You are kidding, right?
A. No actually, we bring in Aerial Trapeze Academy during these 6 weeks to teach people how to fly on the trapeze. It’s an experience you won’t forget!
Q. Who is in charge here, anyway?
A. Well, these guys are the “three headed monster” that plan and program Summer Together. And of course there is a cast of thousands helping to actually pull it off!
Nate Ransil, Assistant Director of Program Ministries
Stephen Weaver, Director of Program Ministries
Mark P. Fisher, President and Head Innovation Coach
Q. Is that all the questions I have?
A. That's a good question.
