Friday, May 12, 2006

Summer camp set up for military families


By REBECCA MEANY
Express Staff Writer

Families of service members have coped with challenges and changes over the past two years.

Such states of uncertainty are often eased by swapping stories and engaging in shared experiences.

The inaugural Idaho Military Family Camp, coordinated by Idaho 4-H, will be held in July for Gem State Military Guard and Reserve families from all branches.

"This is an opportunity for military families to relax and play in a supportive environment with others who have recently experienced similar life circumstances," Sue Philley, Idaho State 4-H's coordinator of Operation: Military Kids, said in a news release. "We hope they'll make new friends and strengthen their family bonds in a safe, fun, inexpensive, beautiful wilderness environment."

In addition to discussions of military family life, camp activities will include outdoor sports, crafts, campfire sing-alongs, skits and time- and money-management workshops.

The discussion sessions and workshops are meant to help participants "process the impact the global war on terrorism has had on their families, provide new coping skills and help family members build lasting positive memories," Philley said.

Numerous businesses have contributed funds in support of the camp, including Ketchum-based Atkinsons' Market.

"Given that it's up at the 4-H camp, it's kind of local, and they're getting some stuff here (at Atkinsons')," said Chip Atkinson, store owner. "It makes us feel good that we can do that."

The camp will be held July 7 through July 9 at the Boulder Mountain 4-H Camp, 17 miles north of Ketchum.

The cost is $25 per person, which includes two nights lodging, materials, six meals, snacks and childcare.

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Registrations will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis by June 10.




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