UPDATE!

The Laff-O-Lympics for July 25th, 2009 has been cancelled due to not enough participation.

Teens in Action Meeting!

TIA has planned an exciting meeting to kickoff the year! Teens will get to hear from several other metro non-profits and start to plan one of the two major projects they will be doing this year. The meeting is August 9th, 2009 from 2-4pm. RSVP to London by August 3, 2009 @ (405)478-5646.

Mystery Trip!

WHO: 6th - 12th graders, Parents and Leaders
WHAT: A Mystery Trip...That's all the info you need, the rest is a mystery!
WHEN: Saturday, August 22nd 10-5pm
WHERE: We will start at the main office and then continue with our trip.
BRING: Call for info!
RSVP: by Monday, August 17th to London @ (405) 478-5646 or London@CampFireUSA-ok.org.

*We will need Parents and Leaders to drive!

Teens in Action has been very this summer!

Teens put together disaster preparedness packets for campers that included a Teens in Action Prepare brochure, emergency contact cards, emergency plan worksheet, and a storm tracker map. Teen counselors at Camp DaKaNi participated in tornado drills for camp conducted by Teens in Action. Teens also labeled bottles of water to be sold during Council Fire on Fridays at Camp DaKaNi; all the proceeds benefited Teens in Action. We would like to thank Stacy Harris for all the hard work she did for this fundraiser and the teens that sold and labeled the water.

Camp DaKaNi Story on News 9

I'm so excited! The Camp DaKaNi story aired this evening on Channel 9, and it was wonderful! If you missed it, click on the link below, sit back, and ENJOY!!!

http://tinyurl.com/nabezu

OKC Fire Department Visits Camp DaKaNi Day Camp

On occasion I must take a day off to take care of things that cannot be taken care of after 5 p.m. on weekdays or on the weekends. One such day was last Thursday, June 11th, when I had to take two anxious guys (my son, 17 and my stepson, 16) to take their drivers tests. Yes, they both passed, and while that is great news, it was not the most exciting part of the day.

At approximately noon that day, I received a call from Miss Morning Glory at Camp DaKaNi that Station 2 with the OKC Fire Department came to camp. Of course my first reaction was, "WHY....WHAT HAPPENED?!?!". Miss Morning Glory quickly put my mind at ease by telling me they came by just to say hello. Turns out they were sitting around the station bored, and wanted something to do.

After giving several groups of campers the grand tour of the fire truck, these terrific guys helped out with fishing and archery. When they left, they told Miss Understood and Miss Morning Glory that coming to Camp DaKaNi beats sitting around watching All My Children any day. We couldn't agree more!

The moral of my story is two-fold.....

1. If you take off work, realize you could miss something really exciting, and rethink your plan.


2. If you didn't already realize that Oklahoma City is a great place to live, maybe now you do.

Camp Fire USA Heart of OK Council Delivers Candy to Ft. Hood

NATIONAL YOUTH ORGANIZATION GIVES SWEET DONATION TO SOLDIERS
Camp Fire USA Heart of Oklahoma Council Delivers Record Amount of Chocolate to the USO Ft. Hood

Camp Fire USA Heart of Oklahoma Council will be delivering approximately 4,300 boxes of donated candy to the USO Ft. Hood, Texas this Friday, June 5. The donation marks the eighth year that the Heart of Oklahoma Council has joined with the USO Ft. Hood to send Camp Fire candy to the troops.

Ft. Hood is one of the major points of deployment for most branches of the military. The USO Ft. Hood provides valuable services to the men and women who defend our country, including coordinating care packages that are given before they are deployed, while they are serving in Iraq and Afghanistan, and when they return home.

“I think it’s phenomenal when an organization sees all the sacrifices that our soldiers make,” said Robin Crouse, director of the USO at Ft. Hood. “When we demonstrate our support for America’s heroes – that’s a big deal.”

The first 1,900 boxes of the candy will be placed in the barracks room of single soldiers with the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, who are returning to Ft. Hood after a year of being in Afghanistan.

“Most of these soldiers haven’t had chocolate in 12 months, so this will be a real treat for them,” said Crouse.

The majority of the candy being delivered to the USO was donated by the public through direct sales as well as donated by corporate sponsors who purchased cases in bulk for this purpose. The Heart of Oklahoma Council added to the donation by deciding to send the rest of the candy not sold in this year’s sale.

“I can think of nothing more important than to make sure the men and women who protect and serve our nation know how much we appreciate the sacrifices they make for us all on a daily basis,” said Kim Kamp-Leslie, executive director/CEO for the Heart of Oklahoma Council.

Last week, the organization donated nearly 1,800 boxes of candy to the Airman & Family Readiness Center at Tinker Air Force Base in Midwest City. Some of the candy was distributed immediately at a deployment dinner for service men and women and their families.

“Candy is always a great morale boost,” said Amber Renteria-Hulme, community readiness technician for the Airman & Family Readiness Center and former Camp Fire member. “Camp Fire has always strived to help the community, and reaching out to our troops in this way only reiterates their support.”

-end-

The Village Fire Department Visits Special Care

Last fall is when I started doing afterschool programming twice a week at Special Care, a daycare center where two-thirds of the children have some sort of physical or mental disability.

On Thursday, May 14th, some fire fighters from the Village Fire Department came to Special Care to pick up a donation of bottled water that we had collected for them. A couple of weeks before their visit, we had a great time making signs to hang in the hallways, and when the firemen arrived, the kids were given the opportunity to check out the fire truck and meet the firemen. It was the perfect service project to get them involved in. They are such a wonderful group of kids!

Now I can't wait until August 12th when they come to Camp DaKaNi for a field trip!

Summer Volunteer Opportunities at Camp DaKaNi Day Camp

Camp DaKaNi Counselors Needed

Volunteer Camp Counselors are welcome and needed at Camp DaKaNi this summer. Counselors should be able to commit to one full, week-long session. As a bonus, volunteer counselors will be allowed to bring a relative of their choice to camp for free! Those interested must be able to attend counselor training on May 30th, and must submit a volunteer application which includes a background check. For more information on this great volunteer opportunity, call Jannie Matlock at 478-9454.

Once-A-Week Camp DaKaNi Opportunities

Would you like to help out at Camp DaKaNi but don't have an entire week to spare? Call us! We have many once-a-week volunteer opportunities to choose from. For more infomation contact Kim Watson at the Camp Fire USA office at 478-5646.

Supplies Needed at Camp DaKaNi

paper towels, paper plates, ziploc bags (all sizes), duct tape, clean #10 cans, clean large metal coffee cans with lids, gallon jugs of liquid soap, brillo pads, dish towels, pot holders, construction paper, fun foam, googley eyes, pipe cleaners, dry tempera paint, Sharpie's (assorted colors)

Camp DaKaNi donations are being accepted at the Camp Fire office

Your help is appreciated!!!

New Gadget!

A new gadget has been added to our blog. Scroll down and look at the left column. There will be a calendar. That calendar will be updated regularly with council events to keep you updated with what is happening with our council. If one one the dates has a time on it, click it! A bubble will pop up showing you what is happening on that day. If you have problems with the calendar please email Dace@CampFireUSA-ok.org .

Camp Fire USA Presents Highest Award to Central Oklahoma Youth

Ten Graduating Seniors from the Heart of Oklahoma Council Recognized

Teaching, giving service, leadership, and advocacy—that’s how hundreds of teenagers across the country use their time each week as they work toward the WoHeLo Award, Camp Fire USA’s highest honor.

By earning the WoHeLo Award, these young people join an elite group of current and former Camp Fire USA members who have succeeded in completing all of the requirements to achieve the award.

Those who take on the rigorous task of completing the WoHeLo Award typically start working on the requirements when they are in 9th grade. Each of the candidates demonstrate their commitment to advocacy through the work they do on 3 different issues, such as giving service to the deaf, helping at an animal shelter, working with a hospice unit; in addition each candidate must have a solid dedication and appreciation of Camp Fire USA’s history and values.

“Earning your WoHeLo Award takes many hours of time spent learning, advocating, and educating others about issues that impact our lives and communities,” said Susan Williams, senior program director for the Heart of Oklahoma Council and former WoHeLo Award recipient. “These youth must be self-starters and organized, and have a true desire to make a difference in the world around them.”

The word WoHeLo, also the organization’s motto, comes from the first two letters of the words work, health, and love. Each year nearly 200 youth across the nation receive the esteemed award.

Camp Fire USA Heart of Oklahoma Council presented 10 graduating seniors with the WoHeLo Award at its Grand Council Fire held on April 26 in Oklahoma City. This year’s recipients are:

• Ariel Brison – Ariel attends Ardmore High School where she participates in cheerleading and track, and is also a camp counselor. Ariel plans to attend Murray State College on a cheerleading scholarship and will pursue a degree in nursing. She is the daughter of Alicia and Bo Waddell.


• Janine Clark – Janine attends Westmoore High School where she participates in choir, and is also active in many church activities. Janine plans to attend Oklahoma City Community College for the first two years and then transfer to a four year college. She is the daughter of Jamie and Barry Clark.


• Shelby Dodd – Shelby is an 11-year Camp Fire USA member, and attends Ardmore High School where she is active in FCCLA, National Honor Society, and Varsity Basketball. Shelby plans to attend the University of Oklahoma and major in Pediatric Nursing. She is the daughter of Sheila Manuel and Charles Dodd.


• Caitlin Hulin – Caitlin is a Camp DaKaNi counselor, and she attends Westmoore High School where she participates in choir and First Robotics. Caitlin plans to attend the University of Oklahoma to pursue a degree in Aerospace Engineering, and to join the Air Force. She is the daughter of Mary Hulin.


• Cate Lynn – Cate is a 13-year Camp Fire USA member and is a Camp DaKaNi counselor. She attends Westmoore High School where she is involved in band, colorguard, National Honor Society, Multicultural Club, and National French Honor Society. Cate plans to attend the University of Oklahoma and major in music performance and medicine. She is the daughter of Catherine Quintis and John Lynn.


• Joshua Matlock – Joshua is a 13-year Camp Fire USA member, a Camp DaKaNi counselor, and an Americorps Member. He attends Mustang High School and is active in National Honor Society and soccer. Joshua plans to pursue a degree in Veterinary Medicine at Oklahoma State University. He is the son of Frank and Jannie Matlock.


• Cassie McCain – Cassie is a 13-year Camp Fire USA member, and attends Edmond Memorial High School where she participates in band, colorguard, the Sign Language Club, and the drama team. Cassie plans to attend East Central University in Ada, Oklahoma majoring in sign language, and then go to law school. She is the daughter of Christie Chapman.


• LaTasha Thrash – LaTasha attends Westmoore High School where she participates in choir, basketball, student council, and Key Club. LaTasha plans to attend Oklahoma City Community College to complete her basic requirements and then transfer to the University of Oklahoma to pursue a degree in nursing. She is the daughter of Brenda and Richard Collier.


• Kortney VanBuskirk – Kortney is a 13-year Camp Fire USA member and was a camp counselor at Lake Murray Camp Out. She attends Lone Grove High School and participates in National Honor Society, Key Club, FCA and cheerleading. Kortney plans to attend the University of Central Oklahoma to major in Chemistry/Pre-pharmacy with a minor in leadership. She is the daughter of Johnny and Alicia VanBuskirk.


• Callie White – Callie is a 13-year Camp Fire USA member and Camp DaKaNi Counselor. She attends Westmoore High School and is a member of the speech team, the student council, and FCA. Callie plans to attend Mid-America Christian University in the fall and will major in Secondary Education so that she can be a government teacher.
  

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE CAMP

Camp DaKaNi Day Camp will kick off its 53rd year of providing fun and engaging outdoor activities to youth across central Oklahoma. Over the years, Camp DaKaNi has become a well known summertime tradition offering fishing, hiking, arts and crafts, archery, a zip line, and much, much more.

Since its opening in 1956, Camp DaKaNi has provided traditional, quality outdoor experiences to youth. Nearly 51,000 campers have learned to cook over an open fire, raced frogs and turtles, and mastered the low ropes course.

“We are now starting to see the grandchildren of former campers and camp counselors,” said Jannie Matlock, Camp DaKaNi director. “It really says something about the quality of a camp when it has operated long enough to see several generations of a family come through its gates.”

Camp DaKaNi is located on Hefner Road, just west of Interstate 35 in Oklahoma City, and is open to boys and girls in kindergarten through 6th grade, as well as teen and adult volunteers. Membership is not required for campers to enjoy the summer programs at Camp DaKaNi.

“Because our camp sessions filled so quickly last year, we added an additional session to this year’s schedule,” said Matlock. “We want to allow as many children as possible the opportunity to discover the great outdoors and everything it has to offer.”

Five regular week-long sessions will take place on June 1, June 8, June 15, June 22 and July 6. Also, MaKaYa, an overnight camp, will be held at Camp DaKaNi from June 29 through July 1. MaKaYa, which means “persons under the trees”, is a mini-session for older campers in 6th through 12th grades who want to participate in outdoor activities without having to serve as a counselor or counselor aide.

The cost is $135 for the regular camp sessions, $90 for the MaKaYa session and $50 for before and after-care.

For more information or to register for a day camp session, call 478-5646 or e-mail campdakani@campfireusa-ok.org. The Camp DaKaNi brochure is also available online at www.campfireusa-ok.org.

Teens Donating to Teens

Teens in Action will be taking ongoing donations for Youth Services for Oklahoma County (YSOC). YSOC is a not-for-profit community organization that advocates, educates, intervenes and counsels youth and families to make a positive difference in their lives.

Go through your closets and donate gently used/clean clothes that you don’t longer wear! Youth need everything from school clothes to interview/church clothes. The clothes you give will go to high school students who live on their own or to youth in foster care. Email Dace@CampFireUSA-ok.org for more information or to set up a time to bring donations.

Camp Fire USA is on Facebook

Social networking sites are a great way to keep in contact with our members. Join the Camp Fire USA Heart of Oklahoma Council group and Teens in Action - Heart of Oklahoma Council group on Facebook. You can view pictures from our council events and post comments on our wall!

Camp Fire USA Delivers Water to the Mustang Fire Department

On Thursday, April 30th, some of our Mustang Camp Fire USA members and a few of our Council staff helped deliver 25 cases of bottled water to the Mustang Fire Department. The firemen were very pleased with our donation, and told us how much they appreciate what we are doing to help our local fire departments who were involved in the recent wild fires.

We will be making yet another delivery to the Jones Fire Department, a completely volunteer run department, on Monday, May 4th. Everyone is welcome to join us in showing our support for the brave men and women who save so many lives. Let's show them Camp Fire cares!

To find out more about this important project, or to make a monetary donation, please call Michaelanne Stilwell at the Camp Fire USA Heart of Oklahoma Council office at (405) 478-5646. Any donations of bottled water can be dropped off at our office located at 3309 E. Hefner Road in Oklahoma City.

Teens in Action Update!

Teens have the opportunity to raise money for their scholarship account by working at the Annual Chuck Wagon Festival at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum on May 23rd and May 24th. You will be selling sodas at a Coca-Cola booth. Space is limited so sign up ASAP.

Camp Fire USA youth in grades 6-12 have a chance to participate in a high ropes course on June 13th. The cost is $10 per person and you must bring a sack a lunch. Space is limited, RSVP by June 10th.

The Heart of Oklahoma Council is holding the first ever Laff-O-Lympics on July 25th from 3 pm – 7pm at Camp DaKaNi. This is our wild version of the Olympics. You should wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty, sticky, wet, or stained. The cost is $5 per person and dinner will be served. RSVP by July 10th.

RSVP for all events to Dace, London, or Michaelanne @ (405) 478-5646.

If you have something you want Teens in Action to do; email Dace@campfireusa-ok.org

First Shipment of Bottled Water Delivered to the Nicoma Park Fire Department

On Thursday, April 23rd, our first shipment of bottled water was delivered to the Nicoma Park Fire Department.

My daughter and I met up with Carolyn Herman's club to unload our delivery of 13 cases of water (that's 38 gallons!) at the fire station.

The firemen were so grateful, and they even pulled one of the fire trucks out of the station and let the kids climb on board and blow the air horn. Naturally, this was a huge hit with the kids!

The firemen were surprised by the amount of water we had collected for them, and told us that bottled water is something they use to flush their eyes, quench their thirst, and cool off while fighting fires.

We had a great time, and I can't wait to make next week's delivery to the Mustang Fire Department. I hope to see everyone there!

WAY TO GO CAMP FIRE USA!!!

Camp Fire USA Heart of Oklahoma Grand Council Fire

CAMP FIRE USA HEART OF OKLAHOMA COUNCIL ACKNOWLEDGE YOUTH AT GRAND COUNCIL FIRE

Youth & Adults Honored At Year End Ceremony

Camp Fire USA Heart of Oklahoma Council will hold its annual Grand Council Fire to recognize the efforts of its members on Sunday, April 26, from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Quail Springs United Methodist Church in Oklahoma City.

At the ceremony, several Camp Fire USA members will be presented with the President’s Volunteer Service Award and WoHeLo Award. Also, trophies will be awarded to those members who sold more than 249 boxes of candy in the annual candy sale.

“In 1955, Grand Council Fire was held at Lincoln Park Amphitheatre and was attended by hundreds of people,” remembers Vianna Foree, former Executive Director of Heart of Oklahoma Council and long-time Camp Fire USA member. “I was in the 11th grade, and I led the Firemaker’s Desire that year. I was thrilled, and that experience helped me know the value of the Camp Fire organization.”

The President's Volunteer Service Award recognizes individual members, families, and groups that have achieved the national Camp Fire USA honor based on the number of hours served over a 12-month period. This year the Council will hand out nearly 40 President’s Volunteer Service Awards to its youth and adult members.

The WoHeLo Award, Camp Fire USA’s highest honor, will be awarded to 10 graduating seniors from the Heart of Oklahoma Council this year. Those who undertake the rigorous task of completing the WoHeLo Award typically start working on the requirements when they are in 9th grade. Each youth demonstrates their commitment to advocacy through the work they do on 3 different issues, such as giving service to the deaf, or helping at an animal shelter. Earning the WoHeLo Award puts these young people into an elite group of current and former Camp Fire USA members who have taken on this task of leadership and personal growth.

“I earned my WoHeLo Award as a senior in 1979, and my daughter earned hers in 2007,” said Susan Williams, Senior Program Director for Camp Fire USA Heart of Oklahoma Council. “Now we share common memories of going through the process of earning the award and what we learned from the experience.”

All past Camp Fire USA WoHeLo recipients, lifetime members, current members, and volunteers are invited to attend the annual recognition ceremony.

For more information on the many programs Camp Fire USA offers youth in Central Oklahoma, please call the Council office at (405) 478-5646.

Bottled Water for Local Fire Deparments

CAMP FIRE USA COLLECTS BOTTLED WATER TO MEET NEEDS OF LOCAL FIREFIGHTERS

Bottled Water Shortage Reported at Rural Fire Departments

Camp Fire USA Heart of Oklahoma Council is collecting cases of bottled water to be donated to several rural fire departments that were involved in fighting the recent wild fires that ultimately destroyed hundreds of homes, businesses and acres of land in central Oklahoma.

This week’s donations of water are being accepted at the Camp Fire USA Heart of Oklahoma Council offices located at 3309 E. Hefner Road until Thursday, April 30, and will be delivered to the Mustang Fire Department that same evening at 6 p.m. Deliveries will be organized each week in this ongoing project, and donations will be accepted by Thursday of each week through May 21st.

The water, which is kept on board the fire trucks, is used in the line of duty to wash out the firemen’s eyes, quench their thirst, and cool off.

The Heart of Oklahoma Council’s goal is to collect and distribute 250 cases of bottled water to help offset the financial strain the wild fires created for the smaller, mostly volunteer-driven fire departments.

“Firemen are such heroes in our communities, and we want to do something to show how much we appreciate their courage and the critical service they provide,” said Michaelanne Stilwell, Director of Marketing, Communications & Special Events for Camp Fire USA Heart of Oklahoma Council. “We recognized the need, and now we are doing what we can to satisfy it.”

Camp Fire USA Heart of Oklahoma Council will continue taking donations in the weeks to come until the Council has helped as many fire departments as possible.

“I think this is great,” said Jim Shonts, Fire Chief for the Nicoma Park Fire Department. “If we don’t get these kinds of things donated, it ends up coming out of our pockets.”

To make a donation, please bring bottled water to the Camp Fire USA Heart of Oklahoma Council office, Monday through Thursday, from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., or call the Council at (405) 478-5646 if you would like to make a monetary donation in support of this important project.

Media:
For more information about the many programs offered by Camp Fire USA Heart of Oklahoma Council or to arrange interviews with staff or members, please contact Michaelanne Stilwell at (405) 201-0227.

Price Changes in Camp Fire Store

Camp Fire USA's National Office raised prices on their merchandise effective March 16, 2009. For a copy of the new price list, please e-mail London at london@campfireusa-ok.org.

April and May 2009 Calender

April 2009
4 Annual Meeting
4 Area 1 Camp Out
17 Area 3 Camp Out
18 Earth Day Event at Camp DaKaNi 18 Fast Fair Share Camp Out
25 Guthrie 89'er
25 Parade 26 Grand Council Fire
26 Grand Council Fire

May 2009

2 Camp DaKaNi Counselor Training
16 Camp DaKaNi Counselor Aide Training
23 Chuck Wagon Festival at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum
24 Chuck Wagon Festival at the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum
25 Memorial Day (office closed)
30 Camp DaKaNi make up training for counselors and aides

A.S.C.E.N.T. High Ropes Course

Camp Fire USA youth in grades 6-12 are invited to the A.S.C.E.N.T. High Ropes Course which is located at Danforth and Midwest Blvd. on June 13th. Youth should arrive at the course by 8:30 am and must be picked up by 4:00 pm. Cost is $10 per person. All participants need to bring a sack lunch. Space is limited, so RSVP to London at (405)478-5646 soon!

DON'T FORGET TO EAT AT JOHNNIE'S

The first Sunday of each month is Camp Fire USA day at all Johnnie's Charcoal Broiler locations. When placing your order, let them know that you would like 10% of your meal's cost to go to Camp Fire USA, and they will send us a check each month.

Johnnie's Charcoal Broiler locations:

Oklahoma City:
2652 W. Britton Rd.
6629 N.W. Exp.
421 S.W. 74th

Edmond:

33 E. 33rd St

620 W. Danforth

Grand Council Fire

When: Sunday, April 26, 2009, 4:00 pm - 5:30 pm
Where: Quail Springs United Methodist Church, 14617 N. Pennsylvania Ave, Oklahoma City, OK (Just 1 mile north of the Kilpatrick Turnpike on Pennsylvania Ave.)

Grand Council Fire is a special celebration for the whole family. We would like for everyone to come and bring parents, grandparents and friends for an afternoon of Camp Fire USA fun! Youth members who donate $1.00 to the Camp Fire USA Birthday Fund will receive a historic Camp Fire USA bead. This donation helps the council pay expenses for renting the auditorium and counts as one of the requirements in the "Celebrate Camp Fire USA" project.

Grand Council Fire Emblems will be on sale in the church lobby for $1.00 each.

Grand Council Fire rehearsal will start at 2:30 p.m. on April 26th for EVERYONE. This includes Perry Drill Team, Klowns, processional participants, flag ceremony participants, WoHeLo recipients and their families and friends. Any group not ready by 2:30 p.m., will not be allowed to perform.

Birthday Part Cancelled

The Birthday Party has been CANCELLED!!!

Due to recent bad weather predictions, the Council has decided to cancel the Birthday Party that was scheduled for Saturday, March 28th. The party will be rescheduled, and the membership will be notified with this information as soon as it's available. We apologize for the inconvenience.

Annual Meeting Cancelled

Annual Meeting scheduled for Saturday, March 28, 2009 is cancelled due to impending bad weather.

Annual Meeting will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2009 from 10:00 AM until 12:30 PM in the Yordi Training Center.

Please RSVP to London at (405)478-5646 or London@CampFireUSA-ok.org by Wednesday April 1, 2009 at 5:00 PM.

No childcare will be available during annual meeting.

Volunteer Appreciation Dinner

Put on your cowboy boots and hats and join us down at the Wild, Wild West for some BBQ and fun! It is time for our Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, and we want to honor your hard work and efforts as our volunteers.

Who: Any of our hardworking, dedicated volunteers

When: April 3, 2009 at 6:30 PM Where: Camp Fire USA office in the Yordi Training Center

Theme: Western (dress in the theme-'Best Dress' will win a prize)

We will be serving barbeque with all the fix'ins. There will also be plenty of games and door prize drawings! We hope you will join us for this fun evening.

Be sure to RSVP by March 31st at 5:00 pm to the Camp Fire office, 478-5646!

Babysitting will be provided for children 3-11 years old and potty trained but you must make reservations by March 31st. Cost is $5.00 per child, and you will have to provide a sack supper for them.

Annual Meeting - Heart of Oklahoma Council

When: Saturday, March 28, 2009, 10:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m.

Where: Yordi Center Heart of Oklahoma Council3309 East Hefner Road Oklahoma City, OK 73131

All voting members have been notified, and those planning to attend MUST r.s.v.p. to London at 478-5646 or at london@campfireusa-ok.org NO LATER THAN 5 p.m. on
Wednesday, March 25th!

Camp Fire USA Birthday Party and Picnic will begin at 1:00 p.m. after the conclusion of the Annual Meeting!

*No child care will be available during the Annual Meeting*

Keri Rosebrook Weuste

It is unbelievable to me that I am writing this post - my friend, and co-worker, Keri Weuste passed away at 5:00 a.m. this morning from a brave, long fight with cancer. I hate that word - cancer... I hear it too often and it always brings a certain kind of sadness to everyone it touches.

Keri was so loyal to Camp Fire - she loved her job and she loved Camp Fire. She worked for more than 30 years at this Council and wore many hats during those years. Keri always had a smile on her face and she always looked for the good in things and in people. She will be so missed by so many people.

Camp Fire is a better place for all those big and little things Keri did year after year. I am a better person for knowing Keri and loving her. All of us at Camp Fire are so lucky to have known her and shared Camp Fire with her.

WoHeLo Keri.....

High Adventure Club Overnight

Hi,

our first High Adventure club overnight was a lot of fun. We camped out, played games, cooked dinner and breakfast, and we learned how to rappell. We are thinking ahead to our next outing to learn more skills and have fun in the out of doors. Come join us!

High Adventure Outdoor Club, is an outdoor activity club targeted to Camp Fire members grades 6th thru 12th, and adult sponsors. Camping skills, Outdoor Safety, Rappelling, Hiking, Horseback Riding, and Kayaking. All these and more are activities planned for future outings. This is the perfect group for you if you are looking to get of the couch, and get active

For more information, or to join please contact Ranger Terry at dakani.ranger@campfireusa-ok.org or call 405-478-5646 ext. 11

Check out our group home page here:
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/highadventureclub

Absolutely Incredible Kid Day

What is Absolutely Incredible Kid Day®?
It's a day designated to honor our nation's children by writing letters of love and encouragement to them. It's a simple, meaningful way for adults to let children know how much they are appreciated.
When is Absolutely Incredible Kid Day®?
March 19, 2009
What's so special about a letter?
A letter is personal, tangible and something a person can hold onto for years to come. Through written words, people can express emotions they may hold back in conversation. During the often-challenging times of adolescence, children may be more open to reading a letter than having a talk that may "embarrass" them.
Does writing a letter really make a difference?
Children need positive reinforcement in their lives. The right words of encouragement can come at just the time a child needs them most - helping the child make better decisions, build self-esteem, and even be more compassionate and successful.
Why is Camp Fire USA sponsoring this event?
Camp Fire USA wants to honor the hundreds of thousands of children involved in Camp Fire USA, as well as those not involved in our programs.

March 2009 Calendar

16-20: Office and Store Closed for Spring Break

17: Camp Fire USA's 99th Birthday

19: Absolutely Incredible Kid Day

28: Annual Meeting

28: Camp Fire USA's 99th Birthday Party/Picnic

Valentines for Vets

Thank you to all of the Camp Fire USA clubs who took the time to make valentines for the residents at the Veteran's Administration Hospital in Oklahoma City. Because of you, there were plenty of valentines to go around. A very special thank you to the following for delivering and passing out the valentines on February 12th: Cheryl, Gina, Kasey, Rachelle, Abby, Nia and London. The patients enjoyed the visit and everyone had a great time.

Camp Fire USA Birthday Party

Come help celebrate Camp Fire USA's 99th Birthday and earn your Celebrate Camp Fire emblem.

Who: All registered Camp Fire USA members

When: Saturday, March 28th, 1:00-4:00 pm (Immediately following Annual Meeting)

Where: Camp DaKaNi

Lunch: Everyone bring a sack lunch, and we'll gather in Dick's Den for a picnic. Birthday cake and drinks will be provided.

Activities: Carnival-style games, 3-legged races, potato sack races, water balloon toss, a pinata, face painting, and more!

Emblem Requirements:
● Wear your Camp Fire USA uniform or t-shirt.
● Contribute to the Friendship Fund* by donating a penny, nickel or dime for each year of your age.
● Participate in the Camp Fire USA Birthday Party.
● Do a community service project.**

*The Friendship Fund honors Edith Kempthorne who helped hundreds of thousands of young people have the opportunity to be Camp Fire USA members. All Friendship Fund donations are used to extend the Camp Fire USA program to new people and new communities.

**Bring non-perishable/canned goods to be donated to Skyline Urban Ministries Food Pantry. This can be done individually, or as a club.

RSVP: To London at the Camp Fire USA office by Tuesday, March 24th at 5:00 pm

Save the Date!

The National and Global Youth Service Day and Earth Day event will be on April 18th. Mark your calendars now and watch for more details to come!!!

Teens in Action Retreat

Teens in Action participated in a retreat this last weekend. Teens had a night full of fun games, snacks, and a movie. After an exciting evening, teens took a tour of News 4 with Jonathan Conder and a tour of the National Weather Center with Liz Quoetone, a former Camp Fire USA member. Everyone enjoyed both facilities and had several questions. To sum up the day, youth listened to an informative presentation about disaster preparedness by the Central Oklahoma Red Cross's, Susan Chavez. Everyone was exhausted after such a long weekend but I’m pretty sure everyone had a fun time!

Chuck Wagon Festival!

Who: Teens in Action members 6th grade and above.

What: Earn money by working at a Coca-Cola booth during the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum’s Chuck Wagon Festival. This is a great opportunity to earn money for your scholarship fund!

When: Saturday, May 23rd
Morning Shift 9:30am – 1:00pm
Afternoon Shift 1:00pm – 4:30pm

Sunday, May 24th
Morning Shift 9:30am – 1:00pm
Afternoon Shift 1:00pm – 4:30pm

*There will be 2 Coca-Cola booths per shift. 4 people will work each booth including at least one adult. Contact Dace Taylor at the Camp Fire USA Main office, (405)478-5646 to reserve your shift; they are first come, first serve!

CANDY SALE UPDATE!!!

Due to the current state of the economy, the candy sale has not gone as well as we had anticipated. Because of this, we have decided to extend the sale an extra two weeks for those who would like to continue selling. The extended sale will take place from February 17th through March 2nd.

In order to take advantage of the extended sale, club youth must check in the candy and money they have on hand to their club candy chairperson, or if they are area wide or 300 club members, to their area distributor.

Metro Area youth who would like to participate in the extended sale, and who need to check out candy, should call the Camp Fire USA Office to schedule a time to do so. Those interested in the extended sale who live in Ada, Ardmore, Perry or Duncan should call their Region Manager. This is an excellent time for sellers to get the kind of candy they may have wanted initially but could not get, as members who choose not to continue selling will be turning theirs in.

Everyone who participates in the extended sale will have the opportunity to add the additional amount sold to their original sale totals and will also continue to earn further money for their graduation fund. Member award sheets will be updated once the extended sale ends and everyone checks in with the office. All participants in the extended sale MUST check in with the Camp Fire USA Office or the office of their Region Manager by Wednesday, March 4th at 4:30pm in order to complete the accounting for the sale.

Please keep in mind, there will be no site-sales scheduled for the extended sale period. Youth should concentrate on door-to-door sales, having family members pass around order forms at their work place, or calling businesses in their area. Anyone interested in receiving an order form should contact the Camp Fire USA office, and one will be mailed or emailed to you. Also, remind buyers about Candy for Soldiers. Candy donations for the troops are down this year, and we would like to be able to show our support by shipping more to them.

If you have any questions about the extended sale, please contact Susan Williams or Jannie Matlock at the Camp Fire USA Office at (405) 478-5646.

S.M.A.R.T. Overnight Event

All 6th through 8th grade Camp Fire USA members (boys and girls) are invited to join us for a S.M.A.R.T. (Self-confident, Mature And Responsible Teens) overnight event to be held on a Friday evening through Saturday afternoon. the event will include programming from Baby Think It Over, The Courage to Say No, and the baby simulators.

S.M.A.R.T. is a pregnancy prevention program for middle-school teens sponsored by Camp Fire USA Heart of Oklahoma Council. Its specific purpose is to help young people develop skills to resist the pressure to become sexually active before they are ready to accept the responsibility of the potential consequences of their actions.

The cost for the event will be $10 per youth member and $5 for adult members.

If you know of a location that can accommodate between 6 and 15 teens, or if you are interested in being an adult volunteer throughout the event, please contact Daina Knoblock at the Camp Fire USA Heart of Oklahoma Council office at (405)478-5646 or by email at daina@campfireusa-ok.org .

Fast Fair Share Weekend Winners

1st Place Winner ($200 VISA Gift Card) was Gavin Houska. Gavin sold 605 units of candy for a total of $3025!! Way to go Gavin!!!

2nd Place Winner ($125 VISA Gift Card) was Hayden Gilbert. Hayden sold 345.6 units for a total of $1,728!! Awesome job Hayden!

February 2009 Calendar

10 :Deadline for turning in valentines for Salute to Hospitalized Veterans

13-16 : National Camp fire USA GROW Conferance

16 : Camp Fire USA Candy Sale ends

17-18 : Parents turn in money to Club Leaders or Candy Chairman

19 : High Adventure Outdoor Club meeting, Yordi Training Center, 6pm

19-20 : Club Leaders or Candy Chairman turn in money to Area Distributors

20-21 : Teens in Action Retreat

23-27: Area Candy Distributors make appointments to check out with Camp Fire office

Save the Date...

The Camp Fire USA Annual Meeting and Birthday Bash have been scheduled for March 28, 2009. Mark your calendars now and watch for more details to come!!!

Summer Job Opportunities with Camp Fire USA

Do you like kids and want to make extra money working with them at a summer job? If the answer is 'YES' to both of these questions, do we have a position for you!

Once again, Camp Fire USA has been awarded Americorps positions for the summer. The positions pay $1800 for the summer, and a $1000 educational stipend if you complete at least 300 hours of work and the required monthly paperwork.

Some of the positions are for Camp DaKaNi staff, and some are for staff at Positive Tomorrows, a school which provides education for homeless children in Oklahoma city. All positions work directly with youth for various ages participating in the programs.

If you are interested in receiving more information on the positions, or for an application, please contact Susan at the Camp Fire USA office at 478-5646, or email: susanw@campfireusa-ok.org

Don't forget...

about the Teens in Action retreat! The R.S.V.P. date is Monday, February 9th. Call Dace at 478-5646 for more information.

You want it, we’ll get it!

Do you have a great idea for a Camp Fire USA product? Now’s your chance to voice your opinion, tell us what you want in the Heart of Oklahoma Council store. Would you like more toys for your kids, business items, or memorabilia for a graduating senior? Give us a call or email; talk to London at 478-5646 and we will see what we can do for you!

Martin Luther King Day

Teens in Action concluded the Warm Hands Warm Hearts project on Monday, January 19th. Teens sorted all of the clothing donations and delivered the 85 hand knitted scarves to Citizens Caring for Children. Next year we hope to make the project even bigger. If you are interested in helping with the project or would like more information on it contact Dace at 478-5646.

Salute to Hospitalized Veterans: Valentine's Day Service Project

Learn about veterns, make a valentine, and recieive an emblem. Make a valentine or write a letter to a vet during your club meeting. All the project information is in the Heart of Oklahoma Council Leaders' Manual in the green section.

Valentines must be turned in to the Camp Fire USA office by Tuesday, February 10th, at 5pm. Remember, valentines cannot have glitter on it and NO food items are accepted unless they are sugar free since approximately 95% of the patients are diabetic.

Historic Emblems

The Heart of Oklahoma Council has pulled out their historic emblems. If you have lost an emblem or participated in a project and never received an emblem, then this is your chance to get one. Each historic emblem is $1 each. You may contact London at 478-5646 to check and see what is available or you can come by the store.

Teens in Action Retreat!

When: February, Friday 20th at 6:30pm - Saturday 21st at 4:00pm

Where: Camp Fire USA Heart of Oklahoma Council main office, 3309 E. Hefner Rd., Oklahoma City

What: Teens in Action Overnight. come meet new people while learning about weather!

Possible Activities:

• Visit the National Weather Service
• Visit the 911 Call Center
• Meet a local TV station meteorologist

Who: For youth in 6th-12th grade and interested adult sponsors.

Bring: Appropriate clothing and sleeping bag/pillow, sack supper and snacks.

Cost: $10 for breakfast and lunch.

RSVP by February 9th by 5pm to Dace, Daina, or Michaelanne at 478-5646. Permission slip will be sent after reservation is received.

*We need at least 10 youth participants (but less than 30) for this event - first come, first serve! We also need adult volunteers to drive and spend the night at the Council.

Camp Fire USA Candy Sale

It's that time of year already, the candy sale is about to begin on January 16th. There is an assortment of items you can choose from. The selection includes: $5 items; Almond Caramel Clusters, Almond Roca Buttercrunch, Creamy Smooth Mint Patties, Butter Toffee Peanuts P'Nuttles, Dark Chocolate Nuggets, and Campers' Mix and $2 items; Chocolate Covered Almonds, Chocolate Bars with Almonds, and Soft Caramel Whirls.

If you don't have a sweet tooth, you can participate in the "Candy for Soldiers" project. Your purchase of candy will be sent to our troops currently serving overseas, at the end of the sale the candy is boxed up and sent to the troops. A card is attached to each donated box that gives the name of the donor unless requested otherwise.

The annual Candy Sale is the largest fundraiser Camp Fire USA has each year. We appreciate every purchase.