MERRIE-WOODE Situated, Celebrated on Fairfield Lake Fall 2012 CAMP It Was the Summer of ‘69
Neil Armstrong stands on the moon, July 20, 1969
Ask someone to recollect their memories of the devastating assassinations of Martin Luther King famous moon landing of 1969 and almost inevitably Jr. and Bobby Kennedy, six weeks at summer camp it will center on the television. As Doug Cameron, was a welcome relief. Simon and Garfunkel blared long time CMW boating instructor, recalled, “I was from the hill cabins singing, “…where have you in Cambridge, Massachusetts with a newborn…A gone Joe DiMaggio? Our nation turns its lonely friend and I held our newborn babies up to the black eyes to you…” It was indeed a nation yearning and white TV to see this historic event. Our wives for a new American hero, a new source of hope, were exhausted and fast asleep.” For so many and a restored sense of national pride. But tucked people, the memory of Neil Armstrong stepping away in the hills of North Carolina, for a few weeks foot on the moon evokes a treasured memory of anyway, the most pressing problems seemed to be the family gathered around a grainy television screen, listening to Walter Cronkite’s steady voice ... continues on page 11 reporting history as it happened. But for a number of girls spending their summer on the shores of Inside... Lake Fairfield, a similar and yet distinctly different experience was unfolding during those same Wit’s End...... Page 2 moments on that July 20th night. Staff News...... Page 2 It was the summer of 1969. In many ways, the youth of America was weary and disillusioned. Alumnae News...... Page 5 Reeling from a tumultuous year of newsreels Annual Fund Dollars at Work...... Page 13 dominated by images of chaos in Vietnam, anti- Merrie-Woode Dads at Camp...... Page 14 war riots, protests on college campuses, a country still struggling with civil rights issues, and the Holiday Gifts...... Page 16 Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2012 At Wit’s End
We hope this newsletter finds you doing this past summer. Starting with June session’s well and that you are enjoying the beautiful fall rainy opening Chapel service complete with foliage. We have actually been experiencing very our own camper and staff created rainbow, to chilly nights with temperatures in the low forties! the continued appreciation for our “Unplugged” It has been an exciting fall for all of us at camp policy. There was excitement over our new this year; we are counting down the days until kitchen staff and the delicious food, especially our Josh and Betsy Reese Helms announce they are breakfast options and desserts. Sara Huffman even headed to the hospital for the delivery of their got creative with the table seating assignments. first baby! Josh and Betsy are expecting a baby In one round, we were sorted by our favorite ice boy, and he will be a welcome addition to camp cream favors! The “Nature after Taps” program, next summer. As if this isn’t enough excitement, the new Mountaineering schools, the Harpist in our Facility Manager, Travis Fox, and his wife, Chapel during rest hour, the 4th of July Carnival, Amber, are also expecting their second child, the “Yarn Bombing” created by the Knitting and it’s a girl! We will keep the Merrie-Woode classes, Weaving’s rocking chairs, the llamas, community informed of the arrivals of Baby and the Staff Crew Race all helped to make camp Helms and Baby Fox. more enjoyable. Our Evening Programs were We have just finished the 2013 camper entertaining and the themed Banquets made for a enrollment process and camp is full for the 95th memorable summer. summer. We were pleased with the new online We look forward to our off season projects, registration, and we heard from many returning especially the new Bang Shop and Gem Box parents that the pre-filled application made the (Jewelry Workshop) renovations. Jim and I hope process much easier for them. We are already everyone has a safe and happy holiday season, busy thinking about the 2013 staffing, and we and we hope to see many of you during our will be on the road visiting the colleges where upcoming travels. we have potential staff members in January. We are thrilled that Merrie-Woode continues to Chug-a-Wump! enrich the lives of so many young campers and counselors after so many years of operation. We will celebrate our 95th summer, and the 100th Anniversary Celebration isn’t far behind. There were many highlights around camp Staff News
It’s been fun hearing from hard on college applications. summer staff this off-season, and Stuart Bowers and her brother, it sounds like so many people Tee Bowers, live a block away have fun things going on. Juan from each other in downtown Acosta is busy at UNC-Charlotte Charleston, so they get to spend working on his year-long plenty of time together when internship. After taking up they are not in class at College of running at camp this summer, Charleston. Stuart says she is Caroline Bach started running Taylor McGrew and Elizabeth working at the Children’s cross country in school this year. Eades enjoy some time at the Museum in downtown Her school is now trying to Weaving Hut this summer Charleston, and she runs into convince her to run track, as Caroline Carnahan, Ellie Lee, ready for the upcoming horse well! Caroline is busy getting show season while also working Madeline Edwards, and Mallie
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Davis, who is working hard on 112th out of almost 1,200 teams! her major, graphic design, at Congrats, Rachel! Catie Samford University. In her spare Hancock is doing well as a time, she sees plenty of the second grade teacher in Birmingham Merrie-Woode Greenville, SC while also taking community! Sarah Davis is graduate classes at Furman currently doubling up on her University. She loves teaching chemistry courses for her major and is excited to be officially at Wake Forest before she goes certified in South Carolina this abroad to London next semester. December! At Vanderbilt, Mary Sarah is also getting to test her Mary Nobles Hancock and Elliott Nobles Hancock is settling into camp-learned skills as the college life and is having a great Hornsby enjoy an evening at Captain costume designer for the student- Rainbow this summer first semester. In mid-September, directed production of Steel Emily Hardy, Margaret Page, Salerno on a daily basis! Tee is Magnolias that will open in Ingrid Weatherby, and Adele November. Since the end of the planning a trip to camp with his Irwin paddled with JP summer, Stuart Drew is back at sisters, Campbell and Stuart, Bevilaqua on the Gauley River Auburn and is busy with her during their fall break in October. and had a blast! The Gauley is sorority and her new classes. She He reports that Sarah Wynn located near the town of came to visit the Charleston loves running into Ivory Sparks, Summersville, WV. All five of crowd this September, and she Clare Sessums, Annie O’Shea, them paddled the Lower Gauley was also recently spotted in and Caroline Nevin on campus! on Saturday, which is a Class IV Athens, GA with some Merrie- We are glad to hear that stretch with some classic WV Woode staff members. Swynn, Elizabeth Etherton is enjoying rapids. Ingrid and JP then come see us while you are her new law job in Atlanta as a paddled the Upper Gauley on traveling around! Campbell Public Health Advisor in the Sunday, which is a world famous Bowers is loving life in College Division of Global HIV/AIDS. section of Class IV-V rapids. of Charleston’s graduate program Amanda Fairchild is busy Kelli Hewitt is living the life in in Early Childhood Education! teaching at Ardrey Kell High Australia. She loves her job, and After a busy summer at camp, School, just outside of Charlotte. she has the Great Barrier Reef Ellie Boydston visited Cate She had a busy summer with a and Whitsunday Islands on her Hargrove at her beach house in house purchase, a new dog, and a doorstep! How much better can it Rhode Island. Ellie also had a trip to see Miriam Chaudhuri in get? Elliott Hornsby started her chance to see Elizabeth England before spending August freshman year at Northwestern Etherton, Bolling Winborne, Session at camp. Amanda is this semester and loves it! and Juan Acosta at Music looking forward to completing Although the Northwestern Midtown in Atlanta during her Master’s Degree at UNC- academic calendar makes September. After a busy summer Charlotte this fall. During the last working the June Session away from camp, Sarah Chatel weekend of August, Rachel difficult, Elliott is planning to be reports that this year she is the Garrett ran in the world’s largest at camp in 2013 for as many Captain of Converse College’s relay race from Mt. Hood to the sessions as possible. While Equestrian Team! She is also coast of Oregon! The race is vacationing in Washington, DC, serving as a Bonner Leader and called Hood to Coast, and Lindsay Hostetler had dinner has completed 300 hours of Rachel’s team consisted of 12 with Adele and Kendall Gibson, community service through the Carolina students. Each team as well as Elly Straske, who is Boys and Girls Club of member ran three legs of varying enjoying her first semester at Spartanburg. Sarah is particularly length and terrain, and Rachel’s Georgetown University. We looking forward to studying hardest leg was a 6 mile stretch recently heard from Annie abroad in Costa Rica during the that was completely uphill on a Langford, who is studying month of January! Life in gravel road at 3:00 am! It took abroad for the fall semester in Birmingham is busy for Maddie the team 26 hours to finish the Rome, Italy at IES, which is the 200 mile race, and they placed
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comparative effectiveness research. Katie Martinez met up with Main Session JC Laura Gill in Charlotte at the end of September, and they enjoyed a day paddling at the Charlotte Whitewater Center together! Though she usually attends school at Davidson College, Carlyle McCall is currently studying at the University of Ingrid Weatherby, Emily Hardy, Adele Edinburgh in Scotland! She Irwin, and Margaret Page at the Gauley recently spent a weekend in Riverdance party England and had the chance to Staff members Madeline Edwards, see the remains of Pendragon Stuart Bowers, Ellie Lee, Caroline same program where Connor Castle: King Arthur’s father’s Carnahan, and Campbell Bowers in Williams, another CMW staff home! How cool! All is well in Charleston, SC member, studied last semester! Chapel Hill for Katy Miller; she While in Rome, Annie is is planning to go abroad next see summer staff in the off- studying conversation and semester to Paris, France! season! In her senior year at restoration of art, and she will Caroline Nevin is back at Mercer University, Kelsie return to Colgate in the Spring. Auburn for her sophomore year. Romaine is staying busy with Ellie Lee is enjoying her senior She recently auditioned for a school, work, and an internship. year at College of Charleston. benefit dance concert for cystic She is preparing to apply for She is staying busy with school, fibrosis in Montgomery, AL, as graduate school programs soon. writing her bachelor’s essay in well as another dance show in Good luck, Kelsie! Karen psychology, and teaching a Auburn that features dances by Simmons is working at the recycled art series for kids at professional choreographers from Amen Clinics in Atlanta as a Bottles ‘n Brushes Art Studio. all over the world! During Labor Counselor. Thomasville, GA was Before returning to Northwestern Day weekend, Annie O’Shea, a colorful place to live this past University for her senior year, Taylor McGrew, and Elizabeth September, thanks to Carol Sarah Logan spent some time in Etherton got together in Atlanta. Singletary and over 60 other Charlotte, NC for the Democratic We are sure they had a great local knitters. The enthusiastic National Convention. She reports time! Allison Press recently knitters transformed downtown that working on President emailed to let us know that she is Thomasville by yarn bombing Obama’s campaign and attending applying for the UNC-Chapel nearly thirty trees. For those of the convention were wonderful Hill honors semester in London us who were at Merrie-Woode and informative experiences. for Spring of 2013. At New this summer, you’ll remember Scottie Springer came to visit College of Florida, Emily Rich the three trees that were yarn Slogan while she was in is working on finishing a draft of bombed in front of Du Kum Inn! Charlotte, and they had dinner her first one-act play, which We recently learned that Scottie with a few Main Session should be ready for performance Springer is living in Quito, campers. What fun! Nurse at the end of January. This Ecuador! Scottie is serving as a Valerie Mac was recently semester, Emily is also stage medical volunteer for Outreach awarded a grant, which was managing the school’s production International. She works in a funded by the National Institutes of No Exit. Emily came to North public hospital in Quito and is of Occupational Safety and Carolina in September to see a rotating through different Health (NIOSH) to study heat- production of Almost, Maine at hospital wards. Scottie has only related illness in Florida Flat Rock Playhouse with Catie been there for a few weeks and farmworkers. Valerie also Hancock and some of the has already run into a Falling traveled to Switzerland on a Merrie-Woode year-round staff Creek Camp staff member! Small ThinkSwiss travel award to study members. It is always such fun to world! Although we didn’t see
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considering a more permanent London this semester! She is relocation to Asheville, NC. We taking classes and has an hope she keeps her word because internship at the same time. Eliza we would love to have her just and Libby Greenberg, who is down the mountain! Tara Tecce studying abroad in Spain, are is busy with the start of her planning to visit each other sophomore year at FSU; she frequently! Libby says she is loves her job with the FSU having a great time, but she is Outdoor Pursuits Program! still adjusting to the language Congratulations to Julie Van barrier. Good luck, Libby, you’ll Rachel Garrett (top row, second from Hart who has decided to attend get it! At University of Georgia, left) with her Hood to Coast team New College of Florida in the Bolling Winborne says her fall of 2013. During Merrie- junior year is going well. She her on the river this summer, Woode’s recent Father/Daughter recently took a trip down the Lauren Thomas was busy weekend, Avery Wiens came to Chattooga to keep her paddling working as a farm educator for camp to help out with skills up during the off-season. the FARM Institute on Martha’s lifeguarding and other counselor- Bolling lives with Mariah Loop Vineyard. LT plans to move to like responsibilities. Thanks for and sees Ellie Boydston, Lane New Zealand for 6 months, lending a hand, Avery! Eliza Travis, and Avery Wiens on a starting in November and is then Williams is studying abroad in regular basis. Alumnae News
URock Theatricals, and will be KPMG. She recently caught producing and choreographing up with Keiko LeMon (95-09) shows for Broadway. Olivia who was in Washington, D.C., Buss (94-99) is living in New touring with the Cirque Du York City where she works as Soleil show, Totem, where she a handbag designer at Steve works in the props department. Madden. Her job has taken her Landis enjoyed a weekend in to Hong Kong and China over the Highlands, NC this past August past year. She had a wonderful with Natalie Williams (92-06), Natalie Williams (92-06), Corbin time at Marguerite King’s (95- Kathryn Calder Barmore Dunlap (94-05), Kathryn Calder 00) wedding in New Orleans last (93-05), Corbin Dunlap (94- Barmore (93-05), Virginia Alverson (93-09), and Landis Carey (92-05) year. Landis Carey (92-05) is 05), and Virginia Alverson enjoy a weekend together in Highlands, living in Washington DC and (93-09). In typical “Natalie
NC working in communications with Williams style,” she showed up
with several containers full of Kathryn Calder Barmore costumes, and they wore them (93-05) and her husband, James, out for a day on Lake Glenville. recently moved into a new Riley Dickey (97-09) is stationed house in Charlotte, NC. They at Buckley Air Force Base in were thrilled to see CT Stroud Denver, CO and receiving an (94-01) and Elizabeth “EJ” early Air Force promotion this Jernigan Harrison (94-00) fall. She is looking forward recently at Kelly Stocks’ (92-98) to traveling a bit soon. She wedding in NYC. Former drama will visit Virginia Alverson counselor, Josie Bray (99- (93-09) in Birmingham, AL 02), is part of a new company, Audrey Dyer (95-09) and Perry Ellis (98-10) meet up in Texas Caitlin Ratchford (97-07) in
5 Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2012 Alumnae News cont.
Hollywood” issue. Andy and D.C. where Ellie is teaching 5th Pattie Gabbert Glassick (97- grade. She and her sister, Carrie 06) enjoyed a wonderful trip to Musson (99-01), traveled to Yosemite this summer. Alex London this summer to see the Green (98-10) has graduated Olympics. Avery Harrelson from the University of Mary Jones (84-99) participated Washington with a degree in in her first triathlon, the Tsali Historic Preservation. She XTERRA, and finished in third traveled abroad this past summer place for her division! Dr. Pattie Gabbert Glassick (97-06) to Paris, Switzerland, Austria, David Jones (07-10) has been sporting her CMW shirt at Yosemite with her husband, Andy the Czech Republic, Germany, announced as a 2012 recipient of and England. Leigh Huffman the prestigious American Canoe Atlanta, GA and catch up with (00-10) is currently studying Association Legend of Paddling Tee Bowers (09-present) while abroad in Salamanca, Spain Award. Congratulations, Dr. attending a concert! Savannah and having a great time. She Jones! Blain Lewis (03-08) Duan (04-09) is enjoying her spent the summer working as freshman year at The Citadel an intern for the U.S. delegation where she is majoring in in Vienna, Austria for the Psychology. Perry Ellis (98- Organization for Security and 10) is busy completing her final Cooperation in Europe. Hannah internship for her master’s degree Moon (97-08) volunteered at a rehab hospital in Dallas, for several months at Shanti Texas. She was visiting the Bhavan Children’s Project, a TCU campus to volunteer with school in India that educates sorority recruitment and ran into children from profound poverty. Avery Harrelson Jones (84-99) and her Sarah Akmon (04-present)! At the school, she taught a son, Thompson, after her 3rd place triathlon Perry has also seen Audrey wide range of subjects and led finish! Dyer (95-09) several times, several extracurricular activities both in Austin and in Dallas, including a cheerleading squad. is on the equestrian team at and was thrilled to quite literally Her sister, Lauren Moon (96- Sewanee where she is in her run into Georgia Grey (00-11) 04), had previously volunteered sophomore year. Gabrey Croft recently while on an evening at the school and was able to Means (79-85) lives in San run. Madeline Fuhrman visit again during Hannah’s Francisco, CA with her family. (04-09) recently finished time there. After leaving India, Her daughter, Lilli, is hoping recording her first album. Her Hannah spent the next four to attend camp soon. While single, “Should Have Known,” months backpacking through traveling in Nepal last October, released last April. Her sister, Thailand, Australia, and New Jane Potts (63-67) realized one Isabelle Fuhrman (08-09), who Zealand. In Australia, she of her fellow group members was appeared in The Hunger Games received a big Merrie-Woode also a Merrie-Woode girl, Ellen earlier this year, is keeping welcome from counselors Lucy Rood Lehfeldt (68). Jane and busy in the film industry. She Wood (08-12), Emma Shute Ellen were delighted to see that just finished shooting an indie (07-08), and Kelli Hewitt (07- Merrie-Woode connections can film calledWilderness of the 10). Ellie Musson Jennings be made in the most unexpected James and was featured in Teen (92-03) and her husband, Jeff, places! Rhett Reeves (99-08) Vogue’s October 2012 “Young have moved to Washington, graduated from Sewanee this
6 Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2012 past May. She is now thrilled the Year for UNC-Chapel Hill’s prestigious Robertson Scholars to be back at Sewanee working field hockey team and was also Program. Congratulations, as an administrator! Liv featured in The Daily Tar Heel. Loren! Grace Thorington Rooth (90-00) and Schuyler Loren is the first UNC student (98-10) is in her second year of Rooth (00-04) are neighbors athlete to be admitted to the nursing school in Atlanta, GA in Williamsburg, Brooklyn and and will graduate in May. She both sisters work in New York worked this past summer as an City. Liv is currently acting in a extern at St. Joseph’s Hospital. production of David Ives’ Venus Liz Moore Uecker (90-99) In Fur with her fiancé, fellow has moved to Waco, TX with actor David Christopher Wells. her family where her husband, Schuyler is busy working for a Jeremy, is a sociology professor communications and strategy at Baylor University. Betsy firm in the city and writing for Waddell (92-03) is working Buzzchips.com, a new music in the wardrobe department on blog. The future bride and her the second National Tour of the maid of honor are excitedly Broadway musical, Jersey Boys. planning the wedding, which Reilly Ward (96-06) is in her will take place in New Orleans third year of law school at the on May 25, 2013. Nikki University of Alabama. Ross (02-07) has started her freshman year at the University of Florida. Loren Shealy (02- Carrie Musson (99-01) and Ellie 06) was named Team Rookie of Musson Jennings (92-03) in London CMW Engagements and Weddings
Catherine Avery (94-06) married Patrick Warfield on October 8, 2011 in Richmond, VA. They are living in Nashville, TN where Catherine enjoys visiting with Carolyn Gabbert (97-05) from time to time. Anne Buckman (86-88) married Merrie-Woode girls in their green Andy Calder in New York City ties at Martha Cole Dyer’s (97-10) on April 14, 2012. Jimmy and Blair Dunlap (93-04) with her fiancé, Chris wedding! Back Row: Denice Dunn Calene Wertymer Chambers (99-present), Kristin Brozyna (98- (00-09) were married on May 12, 08), Taylor Kronn (98-08), Katherine 2012 in Cashiers, NC. Jimmy McDonough (95-06), Martha Cole Dyer (97-10), Anna Stephens (04-10), proposed last year on the top of Elizabeth Etherton (94-present), Old Bald. Martha Cole (97- Bright Kinnett Wright (63-67), 10) married Gregory Dyer at Amanda von Thron (95-present), and Betsy Barge Burkholz (62-63) Camp Merrie-Woode on May Front Row: Ellen Hale Jones (73), 5, 2012. The wedding party Lee Handford Cobb (92-04), included Lee Handford Cobb Bridges Handford (98-06), and Dena (92-04) and Bridges Handford Woodhams (96-98) Avery Dickey (96-98) and her fiancé, John (98-06). Avery Dickey (96-98),
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to Dalton Rushing on May 11, 2013. Ainsley Hines (87-98) is engaged to Justin Santa Barbara. Elissa McCarty (95-03) married Jackson Oliver at Oakhurst Plantation this past June. The
Hobie and Katie Rushing Manley (94-09) Gabriel and Jessica Harkness Nehrbass (96-08) on Johns Island outside of is engaged to John Colman of Charleston. Georgeanna Tampa, FL. They are planning Smith (92-98) married Michael an April wedding at St. Andrews Connors on June 30, 2012 in Episcopal Church in Tampa. On Savannah, GA. They are now October 8, 2011, Chris Edwards Jackson and Elissa McCarty Oliver living in San Francisco where proposed to Blair Dunlap (93- (95-03) 04) on The Green of her high school, St. Catherine’s School. newlyweds are now living in An October 13, 2012 wedding in Atlanta, GA. Gina Mooney (88- Richmond, VA is planned. The 96) married Ryan Jones in May couple will reside in Baltimore, of 2012. Gina has graduated MD. Kent McLeod and Whitney from her Orthopedic Surgery Dunlap (89-04) were married at Residency at Boston University Figure Eight Island, NC on June and has now begun her Hand and 2, 2012. They are expecting Michael and Georgeanna Smith Connors (92-98)
Georgeanna is working as a cook and Mike for a tech data start-up company. Kelly Stocks (92-98) was married in NYC this past September. Bess Young (98-09) is engaged to Matt Meeks. They Ainsley Hines (97-98) and her fiancé, are planning a wedding in New Justin Orleans for October of 2013. Bess will graduate this December a baby this spring! Jessica Kent and Whitney Dunlap McLeod from Belmont University with a (89-04) Harkness (96-08) married Master of Arts in Teaching. Gabriel Nehrbass on June 30, Upper Extremity Fellowship. 2012. Doris Kroiss (05-08) was Hamilton Northcutt (76-81) her Maid of Honor and her sister, is engaged to marry Reynolds Stephanie Harkness (06), was a Thompson at Blackberry bridesmaid. Jessica and Gabe are Farm on June 30, 2012. Katie now living in Washington, D.C. where Jessica is earning her MA Rushing (94-09) married Hobie in Social Enterprise at American Manley on April 28, 2012 at The Old Sheldon Church Ruins University. Ginny Lee Hendley in Yemassee, South Carolina. (94-03) is engaged to be married Jimmy and Calene Wertymer Chambers They recently bought a home (00-09)
8 Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2012 CMW Births
Eddie, is having lots of fun with his new sister, Rae Lillian Daniels. Former counselor, Julie Kokemor Farmer (06-07) and her husband, John, are expecting their first child, a baby girl, on January 21, 2013. Hunter and Tait Davidson Flint (89-98) are Former counselor, Amanda Beckler Bowman’s (03-06) new baby girl, thrilled to announce the arrival of Hannah Elizabeth a new Merrie-Woode girl in the At 5 lbs. 14 oz., Hannah family! Eleanor Bea Flint was Elizabeth Bowman was born Mae Elizabeth Humber and big brother, on September 7, 2012 to proud Cadham parents Ryan and Amanda meet his little sister. Former Beckler Bowman (03-06). Jason counselor, Tatia McMillan and Scootie Lambert Dabbs Gibson (07-08) and her husband, (97-99) are eagerly awaiting Jason, are thrilled to announce the arrival of their second son the birth of their first child. around Thanksgiving. They Abigail Ruth, born at 11:55pm are living in Mobile, AL where on September 23, 2012, weighed Jason works as a financial in at 7 lbs. 13 oz. and was 20.5 advisor with Merrill Lynch. Hunter and Tait Davidson Flint’s (89-98) new inches long. Josh (08-11) and baby girl, Eleanor Bea Flint Betsy Reese Helms (89-present)
born on June 23, 2012 in Nairobi, Kenya, measuring in at 9.6 lbs. and 21 inches. The head of our Facilities Crew, Travis Fox, and his wife, Amber, are expecting a baby girl any day now! Big brother, Jordan, is excited to Margaret Hardesty Rudisill (88-97) with The Daniels Family: Jason (04-05), her arrival, Carter Macon, Jeanie Mann Christina (03-09), Eddie, and new Hardesty (61-68) and Gray Hardesty addition, Rae Nunnelee (90-92) at Carter’s baptism Scootie still keeps in touch with are expecting their first child several fellow Merrie-Woode this November. We can’t girls and enjoys seeing them wait for Baby Helms to make around town, especially during his arrival! Lauren Bradley Mardi-Gras season. Jason Humber (91-92) and her (04-05) and Christina Daniels husband, Will, welcomed their Tatia McMillan Gibson’s (07-08) daughter, (03-10) have welcomed a baby Abigail Ruth second child, Mae Elizabeth, girl to their family! Big brother, this past February. Katie Grace Miller (92-97) and her husband,
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Jesse, welcomed their second grandson! Henry Walker Swann child and first daughter, Emily was born September 24, 2012 June, on November 4, 2011. to parents Andrew and Autumn Carter Macon Rudisill was Swann. Henry is Nancy’s fourth born on December 7, 2011 to grandchild. She was thrilled to Margaret Hardesty Rudisill learn this year that her grandson, (88-97) and Macon Rudisill. Whitaker, is in the same school Logan Carpenter Senior (92- class as Virginia Neal Almond’s 06) and her husband, Robert, (54-60) grandson! Woodie and are expecting a baby boy any Betsy Hassinger Van Horn (93- day now as this newsletter goes 97) welcomed a third boy to their to print. Logan is currently family! William “Liam” Conery teaching at a charter school in Betsy Hassinger Van Horn’s (93-97) son, Van Horn was born on April 24, New Orleans. Nancy Conkle Liam 2012 at 9:22pm, measuring in at Swann (55-58) has a new 7 lbs. 13 oz. and 20.25 inches. In Memoriam:
Susan Harrison Fitz-Hugh (55-60) died William Wright Harrison Jr.; and five grandchildren, this past spring in Richmond, VA at the age of including current camper Susan Mire (05-present). 68. Sue led the Virginia Board of Elections for Frances Drennen Quinn (39-40) of eight years and was instrumental in the completion Birmingham, AL died on July 30, 2012 at the age of Richmond CenterStage. The Charlottesville, of 86. Frances loved Merrie-Woode and the last VA native graduated from St. Anne’s School and time she visited with Joyce Gaston Heslip (37- attended Salem College for two years before 47), recalling camp memories over dinner at the marrying in 1965. She was a camper and long-time Birmingham Country Club, they sang a resounding supporter of Camp Merrie-Woode for many years. version of “Chug-a-Wump” right there in the She is survived by her husband of 48 years, Glassell dining room! Frances was preceded in death by “Sandy” Slaughter Fitz-Hugh Jr.; a son, Glassell her husband, Ralph Waldo Quinn, Jr. and her sister, Slaughter Fitz-Hugh III; a daughter, Meredith Ann Drennen Murray (40-41). She is survived by Fitz-Hugh Mire (77-78); her mother, Janet Phillips four children, eleven grandchildren, and four great Harrison; a sister, Janet Harrison Hinch; a brother, grandchildren.
CMW on Track for New Website! We are thrilled to announce that Camp Merrie-Woode will soon receive a new website design! We will be working with Market Connections in Asheville, NC over the next several months to develop a completely new website, set to be in place this coming spring. The new site will feature an updated look, clear and easy navigation, mobile optimization, and many more interactive elements. While our current website has been functioning, it has not seen significant updates in almost a decade. We are excited for camp’s website to showcase everything that makes Merrie-Woode unique and respected in the camping industry. In the meantime, camp’s current site will still be up and running! Look for an announcement that the new website is live in Spring 2013!
10 Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2012 It Was the Summer of ‘69 (cont. from page 1) passing canoe landings in experiencing that first and perfecting step on the moon with performances for the my camp mates and camp talent show. For counselors.” Merrie-Woode girls, “It’s funny,” camp represented says Brown, “I don’t what it always had remember what and what it remains happened afterward. to this day: a respite Just at some point, from the pressures time went back to its and disappointments normal speed, and camp of the outside world resumed its peaceful where we can find the rhythm. Bells rung, best within ourselves. meals were served, rest That summer, the hour occurred. But magic of camp was that day, for those few about to collide with A harvest moon rises between Old Bald and minutes, time slowed the magic of history and human Little Bald this fall and turned into a memory that exploration. has lasted a lifetime.” The night of July 20, miles above them, the crew of This past summer Neil 1969 was one of the few times Apollo 11 was about to write Armstrong, the commander of the outside world has made a history. “While there was initial Apollo 11 and the first man to substantial interruption to daily chatting,” states Brown, “when step foot on the moon, died. We camp life in almost 95 years. the time came, everyone sat in lost an American pioneer forty- Alumna, Busy Woods Churchill absolute silence as the spaceship three summers after he fulfilled said, “We didn’t get much news touched down. Each moment, our need for a new national from the outside world, but that each step was reported. Then hero. In a statement made by summer we heard about the those words, ‘One small step...’ Armstrong’s family in the days moon landing.” The event of a I know I was not the only girl in after his death, they declared, man landing on the surface of that room that felt chills…” She “While we mourn the loss of a the moon was to be observed noted “the enormous power of very good man, we also celebrate and campers and counselors listening to such a momentous his remarkable life and hope that alike felt the significance of event in a collective spirit of it serves as an example to young the moment. “We all gathered camp.” It didn’t matter that they people around the world to work in the Castle, as there was couldn’t see it in front of them hard to make their dreams come no TV reception at camp,” on a television set. It didn’t true, to be willing to explore remembers former camper matter that they weren’t home, and push the limits, and to and counselor, Henri Dibrell experiencing the event with their selflessly serve a cause greater Brown. “If you got there early, families. In a sense, it made than themselves.” How close to you could slip into one of the the bonds of the camp family the Merrie-Woode spirit this is. painted adirondack chairs that surrounding them stronger. The And so, next summer, as we find surrounded the perimeter of the Merrie-Woode girls of ’69 had ourselves on cabin campouts, Castle. Everyone else sat on just been a witness to history gazing up at the moon over Lake the floor. The radio crackled, together. Mimi Daniel, a former Fairfield, we will think back to but it had been rigged so we camper, adds, “Every time I think those awe inspiring moments could all hear the sound.” about that moment in history, I in Castle forty-four years ago Campers huddled together in think of Merrie-Woode and how when a man’s words came their pajamas, leaning to listen lucky I was. I will always be through a crackling radio and as the radio static came in and grateful that I was able to share inspired a generation with hope, out. Meanwhile, over 230,000 imagination, and adventure.
11 Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2012 CMW Introduces New Riding Program Team
Jody Pressley from our facilities crew. Jody will now transition each summer to serve as camp’s Barn Manager. He will work to ensure the care and feeding of horses as well as upkeep to the program’s facilities. Jody traveled this fall to gain a certification from Certified Horsemanship Association. He is looking forward to working with Corinne to provide an efficient and safe environment for the campers and staff involved in Corinne Driver, CMW Riding Director camp’s Riding Program each summer. We are excited to announce taught lessons and trained horses that a new management team from 1985 – 1999. In 2002, is now in place at the Merrie- she moved with her husband, Woode stables! Corinne Driver Randy, and daughters, Rachel has joined us as CMW’s Riding and Emma, to western North Director and facilities crew Carolina where she became the member, Jody Pressley, will owner of Chestnut Hill Farm in transition into the summer Lake Toxaway. Rachel, 22, and position of Barn Manager. Emma, 19, have both worked Corinne Driver has been for Merrie-Woode between Hannah Booth, Corinne Driver, and Elizabeth Dews at the barn this summer associated with Merrie-Woode the summers of 2007 – 2009. since 2002. Over the past ten Chestnut Hill Farm has provided Corinne and Jody are years, she has leased horses to horses to summer camps in the both excited to take on these camp, taught advanced level area, including Merrie-Woode. new roles. Corinne is looking riding classes, and served as a Many of you will remember forward spending a great deal consultant on program needs. of time developing the Merrie- We are thrilled to see her role Woode Riding Program as she here at camp grow tremendously works to advance the curriculum this year. Corinne will bring and expand the knowledge and with her over thirty years of skill level of the campers. She riding and teaching experience. said she is motivated to “give She has owned and ridden the girls a meaningful riding horses all her life and also has experience” each summer. We extensive experience in showing feel confident that this new hunters, jumpers, dressage, and management team at the barn eventing. Originally from the will allow Merrie-Woode’s Midwest, Corinne worked at Fox Riding Program to grow and Meadow Farm, a large boarding develop as we strive to improve school in Illinois, where she Jody Pressley, CMW Barn Manager it for current and future campers.
12 Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2012 Your Annual Fund Dollars at Work!
works with leadership programs such as the Henderson County Young Leaders Program and the Scott-Free Scholarship Foundation. By partnering with these organizations, we are able to grant full camperships to young girls who would not otherwise have the opportunity to attend summer camp. These June Session play, The Giver girls have earned recognition in their school communities for Camp Merrie-Woode with visiting llamas, wolves, leadership skills, a strong work takes pride in the quality of and birds of prey. Campers in programs we can provide to advanced horseback riding this over 600 campers each summer. summer were thrilled to gain Whether a camper takes an some experience in jumping, interest in athletic activities, while the riders on our Drill outdoor adventures, or visual Teams put together impressive and performing arts, she can show routines. Camp’s theatre expect to receive an excellent program produced some summer experience from devoted extraordinary plays this summer. Sisters Katie and Lizzie Devlin with a and talented staff members. June Session’s phenomenal one- visiting llama The summer of 2012 showed act production of The Giver was no exception to this. Nature incredibly moving and creative. ethic, and positive attitude. classes were enhanced by new The Main Session musical All of us at Merrie-Woode “Nature After Taps” sessions. performance of Pippin was also believe that camp provides a Nature counselors gathered with quite impressive, as were scenes unique experience for youth campers at night to teach the directed by campers from plays development, character building, such as Amadeus, Of Mice and and self-discovery and we are Men, and Blithe Spirit. Next thrilled to be able to offer that summer, campers in the drama experience to Merrie-Woode program, as well as the camp girls, old and new, each summer. community as a whole, will be The funding for camp’s able to enjoy time in Castle under programming and facilities, a new roof! Our facilities crew as well as campership funds, has worked this fall to reroof this are directly supported by the historic building in camp. Merrie-Woode Annual Fund. Merrie-Woode is also Without your donations, A camper works on her skills in Riding proud to be able to offer the projects like these would not camp experience each summer be possible. Thank you to all girls about constellations and the to several girls through of our contributors! We are night sky, as well as night-time “camperships.” A scholarship already looking forward to the creatures like bullfrogs, bats, fund in place each summer not next projects on our list that will and insects. Excitement peaked only provides financial assistance influence the quality of camp for at nature classes during the day to many camp families, but also our 95th season!
13 Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2012 Merrie-Woode Dads Get to Know Camp
As the tips of the trees reconnecting with familiar faces. were just igniting in autumnal The wake-up bell rang flame, camp welcomed thirteen bright and early at 7:30 on Merrie-Woode dads and their Saturday morning, and father- daughters to the inaugural Father/ daughter teams started their day Daughter Weekend. with The Great Race. Through a series of stations all over camp, each team had to fulfill specific tasks in order to complete the Sadler Vachon aims to fire her water race. Girls let their creative canon at the opposing team during juices flow at the hair dressing Father/Daughter Weekend and face paint stations, and they Adventures is an adventure practiced their J-strokes on the retreat program owned and water en route to the diving operated by John Brantley board. After lunch, everyone and his family. The Brantleys Cross and Tyler Kennedy show their learned something new about dad, John Kennedy, how to successfully have been involved with execute their canoe strokes their loved ones in a hilarious Merrie-Woode for 38 years, trivia game, structured after either as staff members or as Hosted by John Brantley “The Newlywed Game” from guests, orating during summer and BAM Adventures, the the 1970s and 1980s. Campfire orientation or Chapel services. retreat focused on “laughing and s’mores capped off the BAM Adventures started in more, connecting more, and day, a tradition never-before 2007, and they historically have building a stronger and more experienced by Merrie-Woode focused on father-son events, so loving relationship” between the dads. this was their first program to fathers and daughters. Through “My experience with include young girls and women. a tight schedule of planned camp has always been limited According to the participants of discussion time and teamwork this past weekend, the experience activities, nearly every moment received glowing reviews. had a strategic goal to enhance “I learned that he always communication or strengthen the tries to talk but he’s working on connection between parent and listening,” said Anne Myrick child. McGrew, a June session camper The hugs and giggles along about her father, Mac Mcgrew. the front line as cars emerged “I learned that Anne from the gravel road recalled Myrick really is more of a leader Father-daughter teams after The Great giddy memories of Opening than I thought she was and Days in the summer months. Race (Kip and Liddy Lynch, Bill and Elizabeth Lundstrom, and Brian and she’s a real good listener,” said Families filled the cabins from Laney McDowell) McGrew. “And to her point, Du Kum Inn through Happy that means that I need to do a Hollow, and dads finally grasped to seven minutes dropping her little more listening and not try the joys of living - and trying off and picking her up,” said to control as much and let her, to sleep! - on the banks of Lake Perry Borom, “so it was great you know, develop because she’s Fairfield. All three sessions to actually come see all of the more capable of doing it.” were represented, and campers things that camp has to offer.” “I would say it’s a great quickly made new friends, while BAM (Becoming A Man) time to get to spend time with
14 Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2012 your daughter,” recommended make time for.” weekend as she was packing up Brent Neidenthal. “And the Everyone said that they her car, August session camper program allows you to have quiet will be looking for the next Sadler Vachon said, “You need to time and conversations with your opportunity to come back to come - it’s really fun! And we’re daughter that you don’t always camp. For her final word on the going to come back.” Take a Look at the New Cloud Nine!
A new waiting area for campers and staff in Cloud Nine
Camp’s infirmary, camper were much improved! more efficient use of space, as affectionately named Cloud The new layout provides two they worked to keep all of us Nine, was completely renovated new treatment rooms, a medical happy and healthy this summer! before this past summer. In office, plenty more bed space, the spring, the entire building a comfy waiting area, a front was gutted down to the studs porch with rocking chairs, a full and entirely rebuilt. The kitchen, a handicap accessible accommodations for our nurses bedroom and bathroom with a and the occasional overnight spa-jet soaking tub, working fireplaces, two open porches, and a completely climate controlled environment including an air purification system. The major building project was finished just in time for camp to open up for the summer. Our camp nurses and doctors A bunk room for sick campers in the Cloud Nine’s new kitchen area enjoyed the new facilities and newly renovated Cloud Nine
15 Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2012 Have You Considered A Planned Gift?
Consider one of the simplest and most “It is because there is a kindred spirit in rewarding gifts you can make to Camp Merrie- you that you have recognized what Merrie- Woode: a bequest in your will or other estate Woode stands for. God gave us a place of plans. Many of us want to provide generously for rarest beauty and since I first beheld it, I the organizations we cherish, in addition to our have tried to match his gift as best I could, loved ones. A bequest of any size in your estate with permeating love and honesty. It is a plans can shape the future of Merrie-Woode and composite thing made up of all those who ensure its vitality for generations to come. through the years have loved it and given it A bequest can be “specific,” for a particular their best.” dollar amount, or “residual,” for a percentage -Dammie Day of your estate, after other obligations have been met. Bequests also differ in terms of how they If you have made a planned gift to the Merrie- may be used. An “unrestricted” bequest may be Woode Foundation, or would like more information used for any purpose of the camp operation, and about becoming a Kindred Spirit, please contact “restricted” is limited in scope, meaning you can Denice Dunn at 828-743-3300 or denice@ decide how the money is spent. merriewoode.com.
The Perfect Holiday Gifts for your Merrie-Woode Girl!
are offering CMW Tervis Tumblers with either a vintage or contemporary Merrie-Woode logo displayed within. Other hot items are our long-sleeved Merrie-Woode Rugby shirt and DVD copies of Camp’s documentary, Going Back. Perhaps the biggest sellers this year are our CMW Vineyard Vines ® products. We are now selling a Vineyard Vines ® belt with frogs wearing middies and ties for $40.00, a Vineyard Vines tote bag with the same CMW frogs for $80.00, as well as a CMW Vineyard Vines in the online Stock Shop! green Vineyard Vines ® make up bag covered in our Merrie- Holiday shopping this year sweatshirts, mugs, water bottles, Woode logo. The makeup bag should be easier than ever now and hats. Many of our smaller is selling for $36.00. What a that the Merrie-Woode Stock items make great stocking great way to sport your favorite Shop is online! Just go to www. stuffers! Vineyard Vines ® products while merriewoode.com and click on This year, some of our also publicizing your love of the CMW Stock Shop link to most popular items are relatively Merrie-Woode! Happy shopping find all of your favorite t-shirts, new to the Stock Shop. We to all!
16 Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2012 Sara Huffman: Camp’s New Off-Season Intern
Sara Huffman will be The Merrie-Woode working in camp’s internship Internship program is designed position this year, assisting with to help promote and support the 2013 summer preparations. camp’s Mission and Strategic This past summer, Sara was an Plan moving forward. This integral part of the Senior Staff program is mutually beneficial team and she has effortlessly to the camp community and the transitioned into her new off- intern, as she learns more about season role. Sara has had a the off-season workings of the long time affiliation with camp, camp. If you are in college or starting as a camper in 1996. if you have recently graduated She continued to work as a and are interested in learning camp counselor until graduating CMW’s 2012-2013 intern, Sara more about the Merrie-Woode from UNC Chapel Hill with a Huffman Internship program, please degree in Broadcast Journalism. contact Denice Dunn at Following college, Sara returned Reflections of Summer Camp. [email protected]. to camp for an additional We are thrilled to have Sara on summer, where she filmed her staff with us as her role at camp documentary, Going Back: expands.
Reaching the 2012 Annual Fund Goal!
It’s not too late to contribute not otherwise be afforded this did this; it helped us to raise to this year’s Annual Fund! opportunity. Girls in these over $1,800! All Annual Fund Our 2012 goal is $125,000 programs are nominated by participants and a full report for and currently, we are just over school counselors, teachers, and the 2012 Annual Fund Campaign $117,000 in gifts to the Merrie- principals who feel candidates will be published in the 2013 Woode Foundation. Your support display a strong work ethic, Spring Newsletter. helps to provide excellence in positive attitude, and leadership Gifts to the Merrie-Woode the camping experience; from abilities. This has created Foundation are tax deductible staffing and programming, some extremely successful for individuals, corporations and to facility improvements and experiences, and we look forward foundations within the limits camperships. to continuing to foster these of section 501(c) (3) of the IRS Camperships assist families partnerships as we move into the code. 2012 Annual Fund gifts in making the Merrie-Woode 2013 camping season. can be mailed to Camp Merrie- experience a reality for their girls This year, for the first Woode, 100 Merrie-Woode each summer. Merrie-Woode time, parents were able to Road, Sapphire, NC 28774 or also works with a number of not- automatically donate the given online using PayPal. Go to for-profit scholarship foundations remaining balance of their our website www.merriewoode. and leadership programs in camper’s Stock Shop accounts com/alumnae/AlumniAnnual. North Carolina to provide full directly to the Annual Fund. A html and click “Donate!” camperships to girls who would big thank you to everyone who
17 Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2012 Follow Us Online!
Are you following CMW online yet? We have over 1,200 followers through our Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin and YouTube pages, but we know there are more Merrie-Woode girls out there! Keep in touch with your camp family and relive your summer memories all year long with our updates! You can:
• Receive important camp news and reminders • Find camp-related links from the national media • Watch off-season about what’s new on Lake Fairfield • Comment on surveys, photos and games to stay involved • Reconnect with old camp friends There are new posts and surprises every week! Join our conversation, and follow us today!
Camp Merrie-Woode, Camp Merrie-Woode, The Merrie-Woode Foundation, Inc. The Merrie-Woode Foundation, Inc.
@CampMerrieWoode www.youtube.com/user/campmerriewoode
Calling All Doctors and Nurses in the CMW Family
Just imagine if we had no doctors or all specialties who enjoy working with children. nurses at camp next summer…Who would We also look for registered nurses make sure we are taking our medicine? Who who have interest or experience working would bandage our scraped elbows or settle our with children. Nurses are responsible for stomachs after too many s’mores? We rely on administering camper and staff medications our camp doctors and nurses to keep us healthy and operating the infirmary. Camp nurses live all summer long. We have a medical facility just in the infirmary and eat meals with the camp three miles from camp, but it is important for us community. We are happy to have our registered to have medical staff available to campers and nurses for as little as one week and as much as staff on site. the entire summer. Camp doctors are generally alumnae, If you are a doctor or registered nurse and parents, and grandparents from within the camp are interested in lending a hand next summer, family who wish to volunteer for a week here at please call or email Denice at the camp office Merrie-Woode. The doctor of the week stays in (828-743-3300) or [email protected]. High Heaven (CMW’s guest lodge), with his/her We would love for you to join us beneath Old family, and should be available for consultations Bald on the banks of Lake Fairfield! with campers and staff. We welcome doctors of
18 Camp Merrie-Woode, Fall 2012 Around Camp 2011-2012 Board of Trustees
Elizabeth (Liz) Counce Irwin, Chairman Essex Fells, NJ
Nancy Dameron Almquist Atlanta, GA
James (Jimmy) Broughton Winston-Salem, NC
Melanie Halsey Crittenden June Session JCs Davis Straske as Sir Perceval and her Richmond, VA page, Ellie Schmidt Wynn Gregory Dorsett Raleigh, NC
Allison Almand Ezell Atlanta, GA
CMW Strategic Plan Now on the Website Elizabeth (Boo) Tyler Kennedy Savannah, GA We are pleased to announce that Merrie-Woode’s H. Merritt Lane Strategic Plan is now available to view on camp’s website. New Orleans, LA Adopted this past spring by the Merrie-Woode Board of Trustees, the plan has been set in place to inspire and guide the Joseph (Jed) Lykes, III Directors, Board, and Staff over the next five years. Trustees Tampa, FL Wynn Gregory Dorsett and Steve Straske served over the past year as co-chairs of the CMW strategic planning project. Clair Freeman Marshall The Strategic Plan focuses on seven important elements Raleigh, NC that are critical to the continued success of Camp Merrie- V. Larkin Martin Woode: enrollment, traditions, programming, land and Courtland, AL facilities, staff and leadership, financial resources, and technology. Fundamental to this effort was the understanding Brien Peterkin that the objectives of our Strategic Plan will be fully consistent Cashiers, NC with Merrie-Woode’s mission and vision. Steve Straske stated, “Ensuring that Merrie-Woode Elizabeth Simpson Poynor Birmingham, AL remains vibrant and meaningful to our current campers, and to campers in the years to come, is what our project is all about. Mary Davis McLendon Smart Wynn and I are so grateful for the extraordinary efforts of all Charlotte, NC those devoted folks who came together to help us chart Merrie- Woode’s strategic course as we approach our Centennial.” Stephen B. Straske The completed Strategic Plan can be found on Merrie- Tampa, FL Woode’s website, located at: http://www.merriewoode.com/ information/infostrategy.html
19 Return Service Requested Camp Merrie-Woode® 100 Merrie-Woode Rd. Sapphire, NC 28774 To The Household Of: 828.743.3300 www.merriewoode.com
The Merrie-Woode Foundation, Inc. Cordially invites you to attend
Camp Merrie-Woode’s 95th Anniversary Celebration on Sunday, July 14, 2013
Camp Merrie-Woode alumnae, spouses, families, and friends welcome
Watch for details on the Merrie-Woode Facebook page, Twitter feed, and camp website: www.merriewoode.com