Pictures from the weekend...with true story captions

Sorry...I probably shouldn't scare you right off the bat...


Sara's skills were not learned at the International House of Pancakes

If you look at their faces, you can tell that is not quite 6 am yet...

Lee ate all but two of these...

This may have been a contest....

This is the exact location of where the pep rally took place...geocache this area...
N 35 55.919 / W 76 22.465

Rousing inspiration for Relay for Life....

The whole thing was FUN and SUCCESSFUL...
I am inspired - I am challenging the Eastern 4-H Center Staff to gather and contribute $150 to our team fund for the opportunity to shave my head. If the money is raised by Wednesday, April 8, I will let one Center staff member (or all can take turns) shaving my head to the skin (not the skull). In fact, they can cut designs in it. My beard can go, too, if the price is right ($700).

Enjoy the day...

A Memorable weekend...

This past weekend was a truckload of fun. Our "Relay for Life" Pancake Breakfast and Biscuit sale was a respectable success, and it all went off without me breaking anything. The Shooting Tournament delivered a fair share of excitement, too. Here's the RECAP...

FRIDAY - " A good quail"
Friday night, I enjoyed the staff house with Stephanie and Joe. I also prepared a pair of quail for dinner. My dad "taught" me how to eat quail, which are a real deep south delight. Most of my refined edges were imparted on me by my father, who is the quitessential gentleman. Nevertheless, if my quail were on a menu, this would be the description -
"Two quail, feathers removed, pan-seared then slow-roasted in an oven with baby corn and carrots to keep you regular."
I also lost my cheese that night. I took it of the refrigerator and right to my bedroom. I don't know why, though. I am always looking for something that I have lost, just ask the program staff. I am usually looking for: my keys, my wallet, my house.

Saturday
"Roll Call" - 3:30 am came early, but I achieved my morning workout and waited for Lee to call me... he doubts that I will wake up when pressure is on. He finally called me at 4:45...When he arrived, he found me in the dark ball field in a downpour. Lee is always up for rainy play time, so we put up our parking signs for the shooting tournament. We delayed this until Saturday morning due to the high winds on Friday night. This was truly a "volunteer" day...Lee didn't even bring his briefcase...it's a good thing, his crayons would have melted.

"Biscuit Gravy" (said with Italian accent) - As soon as we completed our chores in the field, we arrived at the Kitchen to find Sausage, Ham, and Biscuits being prepared. I soon found out that I am pretty awesome at putting biscuits together. As soon as we had our 200 biscuits prepared, We packed up half and sent them to the shooting tournament area. Along with the biscuits, there were cookies, cake, cocoa rice krispie treats (my new favorite), cupcakes (heavenly), and pepsi products. Nervous contestants delayed their purchases.

"Pancake Time" - Finally, the Pancake Breakfast began. Sara, our Marketing Director womanned the griddle, only to produce, and I swear, the most tasty mass-produced pancakes EVER. The syrup was just as good. I like to pour coffee on my pancakes, too. This came to the chagrin of Nikki, our Reservationist. Nikki truly believes I am a complete weirdo...but it takes one to know one, I guess. Lee, Lee the 4th, and his wife were also spotted. Lee the 4th is a really cute kid, but unfortunately, he will look like his daddy. Lee aet monumental proportions, all without a fork. Here is an artist's rendering of what happened...











"Lying Infants" - During the Pancake Breakfast, the "Relay for Life" Pep Rally was held. Vicki, Terri's sister was the emcee...I was soon made to look like a fool. Vicki asked who had never participated in "Relay For Life". I was the only one to raise my hand...but the two newborns in the room, were certainly lying. However, I am now a full-fledged participant. I now hate cancer! Next year's slogan should be "Beat Cancer...with a dirty gym sock."

"Loose Chickens" - After the Pancake Breakfast, I went out to the Shooting Tournament to help sell baked goods. It was warm, so I was able to wear shorts. When I arrived, Terri, Glenn (Terri's husband), Hunter (Terri's son), Teresa, Lara (Teresa's youngest), Bud, Charles, and Lee were discussing the chicken that was on the loose. It sounded weird. I later heard a whisper which led me to believe that they were speaking of my legs.

"Preacher Cookies" - Everybody brought some homemade baked goods, except but me. As a matter of fact, I brought Coca Cola products as opposed to Pepsi. Blame it on my deep south roots. Nikki brought devil's food cupcakes. As mean as the devil is, his desserts are sumptious. It does not suprise me that Nikki makes devil's food desserts (Nikki, I am joking, please don't put my lunch bag under you office chair and roll over it). Charles made "Preacher Cookies." He probably should have made "Maintenance Cookies", though. Charles is an excellent cook, though. Charles is one of my favorite people in the solar system. Allegedly, the ladies like Charles, but I can see why. He has a nice goatee.

"Brown Goo" - As we cleaned up, Lara ended up with a brown smear on her hands...

"Rain Storm" - I was supposed to go to Callie's afterward, but the rain prevented me from going. After I informed Callie that I was not going to visit her, she informed that I was, in fact, going to visit her. So, I left to see her. Next weekend is our little Olivia's doggy birthday. She will be two year's old. Callie had to hide Olivia's presants, though...Olivia is a snoop around gift giving holidays.

Alright, so that's it. There will be commemmorative pictures tomorrow of the "Relay for Life" Pancake Breakfast, along with other weekend events.

Spring Rains bring flowers and GCB (Grass-Cuttin' Bud)

Well, the rain is here, probably to stay for a while, too. It's about time, though. The ground was starting to get really dry and brown. Spring rains help "purty" flowers bloom and brown grass turn green. As grass grows green, it also gets taller...if you are tired of this by mid-May, then I have a solution for you! It's called the Grass-Cuttin' Bud - GCB for short. The Center has one...we obtained our GCB about 1.5 years ago. To deploy the device, simply place it on top of any pre-existing lawnmower, and let it go to work. For best results, install your Grass-Cuttin' Bud on a lawnmower like the one seen here:


How does this amazing product work, you ask? Well every morning the GCB "wakes" up and literally gets itself to work...and when it gets here, it is ready to go! There are several primary parts to this contraption: Every GCB has a pair of legs and a pair of arms. All GCB's have a face, but you have to buy the software to give it emotion...ours came with the software already installed...a "turn-key" GCB if I may. We got the "happy, but sometimes dry humor and sarcastic" version. I am pretty astounded by the results of the GCB. If you choose to upgrade to the Version 2.9 GCB (the year 'round version), like we did, it can also be programmed to drive tractors and automobiles, as well as repair air conditioning & heat units, build stuff, and even participate in staff meetings.

Now that Spring is here, the GCB is primed and ready to begin annihilating the acres and acres of grass we have at the Center. Now, in order to run the GCB all day long, you have to also purchase the electronic charge-up and weather protection software. When you purchase this box, you will open it to find an iPod and a straw hat, like the pictures below:














These items will keep the GCB both alert and protected from the sun on those long summer days. Without the kit, you risk boredom and improper grass-cutting. Also, please provide your GCB with a bottle of water on a regular basis, as the device could overheat.

Now, enjoy your GCB responsibly, and it will love you back. It will return your affection with beautifully manicured lawns in a very efficient manner. The only downside to the GCB is that you have to remove items from your lawn before deploying the GCB device. The GCB device operates best in early light situations. The high speed device's warning labels state that all toys and garden hoses should be removed prior to grass cutting, or otherwise risk destruction. But any responsible grass grower can keep the GCB's "line of fire" clear from debris...just pick up after yourself.

Our Grass-Cuttin' Bud has been a relief. Before this, only mortal men could cut the grass. Technology has brought us many things: sliced bread, internet, the shoe phone, and the GCB. All GCB's look a little different, as they are all handcrafted and perfected by an engineer named Vicky. If you are thinking about getting one, check the classifieds to get one that is pre-programmed. We love ours, and know that you will, too!

My Trip to the Grocery Store and Columbia

Columbia is a really small town...like 600 people small. That means that there is little to do for the average person. I am far from the average person, though. I, like the rest of the program staff, make my "own fun." A trip to the Food Lion is a bi-weekly occurrence that we all look forward to - like a child looks ahead to summer camp...excited, yet nervous. The ride into town can also be a real treat...Columbia is large enough to provide multiple routes to the grocery store, all falling under the "scenic route" moniker. Additionally, you can add to the excitement of going to the grocery store by changing your diet weekly. Lately, I have contemplated my diet...I want less products made with corn and corn by-products (trying to do my part and keep food costs down for others) and more organically grown stuff (I am not turning into a hippe, mind you). The demand for this type of food is not exactly burgeoning in northeast North Carolina - so a trip to the grocer makes for a scavenger hunt.

Here's what I bought (like you care) with my reasoning (like you care)

Rice Drink (milk subtitute) Rice is good for waterfowl. Milking cows are fed large amounts of corn and soybeans. And while soybeans can't be milked (for obvious reasons) they still procure a milk product product from them. These things must be planted and harvested with massive tractors. The propogation of these crops often means displacing native wildlife in our country's heartland.

Dates - This is my candy...and dates grow on palm trees in California. While some dates are grown on the Arabian peninsula, I always reach for USA products. There's no tariff or massive cargo ship that impedes their progress to my stomach.

Raisins - I put these in my cereal...good for fiber which keeps me full.

Cereal - I like Fiber One Caramel Squares...again, they keep me full. Yeah, they have some corn in them, but I love farmers and appreciate the cultural and economic impact they have on on our country. My grandfather was and is a farmer.

Steamed vegetables - These are good with my supper. I especially like the baby corn, which is usually hand harvested (allegedly). Also, while growing up, my folks maintained a garden...this was harvested by us and the deer. So maybe a deer is eating out of the Birdseye Corporate Garden. I like deer.

Coffee - The brand I buy is supposed to be free-trade and organic. So nobody is producing this coffee against their own free-will. Caffeine is also a requirement in my life.

Plums - These grow on trees...and as an amateur forester, I have a strong preference for trees and what they produce...as long as their not produced for paper, because we can all recycle.

Apples - See Plums above.

Protein Bars - From looking at the above list, you've probably noticed a lack of animal flesh. I use the protein bars to add protein to my diet. They also have chocolate in or on them.

Clothing detergent - I buy the cheapest I can find. I prefer concentrated forms, as they can cram more power into a smaller bottle which uses less plastic to make the smaller containers.

Tomato/Spaghetti sauce - I buy this cause it tastes good on everything...like a gourmet ketchup. That sounds sort of gross, but try it. In Italy, they pour the stuff on everything. I do not put it on fruit.

Mushrooms - These are my fillers to every meal. It's like meat, but it tastes like wood. I'm not sure why I like them after reading the prior sentence, but they are good.

Before moving here, I had the options of many specialty grocery stores that carried an array of specialty products. The grocery list has been evolving since I moved. The Food Lion in town doesn't carry the standard products I eat, but I enjoy modifying things, especially my diet.

Before anyone comes to the conclusion that I am a vegetarian or that I do not appreciate our agrarian society, then wait a durn minute! I eat what I want. I like tractors and love the sound and smell of 'em. Soon enough, though, only American's will be able to afford food...as biofuel production increases, the corn used for that requires more corn to be planted for tablefare. I like to keep my gas prices low and my grocery bill even lower. Moreover, the more corn that has to be planted to meet demand destroys ancient wetland and forests, some never to be replaced. Additionally, whether we like it or not, cars that run of water, air, or apple juice are just around the corner...so why destroy more wetlands and forest (where many plants may hold a cure for cancer, alzheimers, and the common cold) for only a decades worth of E-85 gasoline.

P.S I like bacon and steak, together. I enjoy them responsibly.

OH NOOOO!!!!...smiling kids and hippies

Yesterday was terrible...only if you do not enjoy smiling kids, shreiking, running, jumping, and rock climbing, that is. It was not a bad day for me, though...or the program staff...or the Lawrence Academy Fifth Graders' looking for a good time. Mrs. Van brought her class down for a little challenge course and a little rock climbin'...there was also the quintessential leaf jumpin'...my favorite activity of all time. Mad props to the "teach" for climbing our Rock Wall...Mrs. Van is a cool teacher!

So nevertheless, if you are the kind of person that would have not enjoyed the day's activity with squealin' children, you should steer wide and clear of the Eastern 4-H Center for a while...those activities are only going to become commonplace as the weather warms up. FINALLY! I heard several funny things come out of those kids' mouths, but the funniest thing I heard all day was actually from Chris Sova (Program Staff and Future Nurse)...here is the conversation:

Female child: "I love hummus...I want some hummus when I get home!"
Chris: "I love hummus....do you kids know what hummus is made from???"
Female children (in anticipation): "WHAT!?!?"
Chris: "It is made from GORGONZOLA BEANS!"

So, Chris was obviously wrong...Gorgonzola is actually a moldy cheese, and hummus is made from GARBANZO beans...just a little accident, but the kids caught it...which makes it funnier.

Hummus is a paste made from grounding the beans, combining with tahini paste (sesame seed paste), and garlic. I like hummus, but hippies do, too. One conversation inthe staff house a couple of nights ago led to the revelation that all hippies do the following:

Shop at Farm Fresh, Whole Foods, or Harris Teeter.
Own sandals.
Bathe when needed.
Purchase "organic" goods.
Carry a hackysack.
Own and carry a backpack.
Enjoy hiking.
Like dogs AND cats.
Wear a "beanie" or toboggan.

Well, since many of us are guilty of some of these things, but still not a hippie, there are some eliminators. You are not a hippie if you do the following:

Prefer shoes on your feet.
Tuck in your shirt.

Pretty simple....

Enough about hippies...We are t-minus 3 days to the pancake breakfast/glutton. Remember...we start serving at 8:00 and finish at 11:00...cost is $6 for adults and $3 for the kids. Despite my short stature and boyish looks, I have to pay the adult price. From here on out, I guess I have to get called a man...well, at least a grown-up. Speaking of men, I have a picture of one...check out the massive calf muscles of this cat... Can you identify the "man" in the picture below?

The Eastern 4-H Center is chocked full of manly-men...especially Charles Midgette, our Maintenance Supervisor. He has strength of mythic proportions. Charles also claims that he has a giant skull, too. This, too, is mythical. I am proud to announce that Charles does not have a huge melon on his shoulders. Bud, our maintenance tech, is a true southern chap...strong, brave, and polite. I am strong (NOT IN SMELL), too. I picked up an entire box of paper clips yesterday. Speaking of which, I will need to see a "CHOIROPRACTOR" pretty soon. "CHOIROPRACTOR" is a word I heard here, apparently it's like a chiropractor, but they sing while aligning your spine...sounds fun. ENJOY YOUR DAY!

Relay for Life Pancake Breakfast

This Saturday, March 28, will be a day of reckoning. The Center is hosting two events...the NCWRC District Shooting Tournament and the Relay for Life Pancake Breakfast. It will be a busy day, and I expect to be overly sluggish...especially after the Pancake Breakfast.

Tickets for the Pancake Breakfast are available at the door for $6...that gets you all the pancakes you can cram into your gullet...syrup, butter, and all. I, along with other staff members will be volunteering as our "Camp Relay" team attempts to be the overall leader in funds raised for "Relay for Life Tyrrell County. We will also be pedaling our wares at the shooting tournament - we expect to raise loads of money that will go towards cancer research.

I will also be hosting my "own" syrup breakfast that morning...there is no additional ticket to participate - but my breakfast will include me and anyone else who likes a plate of syrup with a drizzle of pancake on top. I will be at the table with other people who enjoy raising money and eating syrup...if you are trying to locate me - look for a syrup-soaked beard...

Nevertheless, we expect around 250 folks to enjoy our fine dining foray. Breakfast is always one of the most overlooked, if not skipped meals. It is the most important meal of the day. You have to grab enough GOOD calories that will sustain you for the first part of the day as well as enough to get you going. When I eat breakfast, I seek out meals that give me lots of fiber (to keep me full), lots of protein (to give me clean energy), and few sugars (so that I don't spike blood sugar levels - this will make you crave more sweets). I will make an exception in the name of cancer research this Saturday. As you probably know, overweight and obesity rates are on the climb...partly due to skipping breakfast. Here's why:

(1)When you skip breakfast, you are usually really hungry at lunch. And, as many of us reach for our local lunch counters, we double our portions of greasy-fried food and sweetened tea.

(2)Cavemen didn't have coolers...they had to hunt their food. This burned additional calories, but when they acquired their food it was either high in fiber (plants), or high in protein (woolly mammoths are rich in protein). I, too, like to hunt for my breakfast. I hide my cereal somewhere in the kitchen every night, and then look for it in the morning. I usually capture my quarry and then devour it like a true wildman.

(3) Eating actually requires the body to use energy (calories) when digesting. If you spread out small meals, you burn calories all day, while never getting to full from eating a gargantuan lunch.

Enough about diets - we could all probably find some other way to improve our lifestyle. Exerise is always great...it burns calories and helps you sleep at night. Virtually everything at camp helps you get exercise and use calories...examples:

(1) Simply existing burns about a calorie per minute.
(2) Swimming uses 15 calories per minute.
(3) Playing a field game burns about 10 calories per minute.
(4) Rock Climbing burns about 20 calories per minute.

See you at the Pancake Breakfast...and lend a hand if I am covered in syrup!

Finally...a (short) break

For the past 10 nights, I have spent only one night in the comfy confines of my humble abode. The other nights were in hotels. the basic schedule for me follows: Drive, sit, stand, sleep. There was a point to all of it...I didn't drive, sit, stand, sleep for nothing...

This weekend, I introduced an entire region to Camp Canvasback. Everybody was so interested in what they thought was a "great" idea...I could only agree. Camp Canvasback is a wonderful program that teaches teenagers important waterfowling principles...The camp is only $150 for a full week...there is no other Waterfowl Education camp that comes close to that value...and our program is better; Better instructors, better food, better facilities, and better program...Our 4 year tract gives youth a ton of skills in a way that allows them to implement them progressively. Pretty much - we teach kids to have the safest, best time possible upon entering the waterfowl world. Our program are easy to market...amazing activities and amazing value! I like to talk about what we do, because I am proud of it...

Nevertheless, Jonathon Casper, a Program Staff member and expert target sports instructor accompanied me on this venture. Casper (yeah - he goes by his last name) has a monumental beard. He is even tall. Casper was very adept at speaking with new parents and potential campers about the program...and he did it without scaring anyone with his massive frame. Congratulations to all of the people who were able to effectively identify all of our bird wings...we had wings and feathers from a mallard, black buck, and widgeon. More people misidentified than properly identified, but, hey...we were educating the public!

This week will be busy...I will be trained on saw blade technology by world renowned saw blade technologist Charles Midgette...we will finish our landscaping! We have a Team Challenge Course Group tomorrow - I can't wait! This weekend we will be hosting the the NCWRC District Shooting Safety Tounament...the winners go to the State Contest! We will also be hosting a Relay for Life event, but more on that tomorrow! Take Care....

I survived...

This past week was spent in Atlantic City, New Jersey at the Tri-State ACA convention... The American Camp Association's largest convention - and it's best. Lee, mself and Chris (health coordinator apent 3 days being filled to the brim with knowledge about camp merketing, camp programming, camp risk management, and adaptive camping. Many conferences that I attend are OK...this one was great! It's location, while appealing to many, is NOT appealing to me. Atlantic City is renowned for it's casinoes and boardwalk...both of which MUST be traversed to get anywhere. There are also ton's of restaurants, few of which are actually delightful. Here's the rundown...

On Monday we followed our GPS, right into the Maryland / Delaware backcountry. While I am certain we picked the "fastest route" option, I believe we could have selected the "scenic route" option. Unfortunately, Chris was behind the wheel when we appeared at the Cape May Ferry (not in our plans, despite my warnings). This was actually a blessing in disguise. We bypassed tons of rush hour traffic from Philadelphia and New Jersey. The ferry was tremendous...much bigger than any boat I had ever been on...Lee decided that when we disembarked from the ferry, he would take over the driving responsibilities.

We finally arrived in Atlantic City...I enjoyed seeing the wind turbines built in the city, but there is no way that those 10 turbines fuel the city's obsession with bright LED lights and ringing slot machine bells. The city itself is less than glamourous. The hotel/casinoes are also cheesy...the room rates are cheap (to encourage attendance), but the room appointments are slim (they do not want you in the room, they want you in the casino). I told myself that I will gamble only $10, more or less for the cultural experience. I lost all but six cents (I have the voucher to prove it). I hate gambling...there are too many people gambling away money they should reappoint to other locations of their life. I also matched my gambling expense with a philianthropic effort of $10 to Ducks Unlimited (my favorite organization), to offset my wrongdoings. After seeing thousands of depleted wetland on the Jersey Coast, I know that my DU contribution is only a drop in the barrell, but hopefully, it will be used. We all decided that gambling was boring, as we have the attention span of the average 4 year old.

Restaurants are usually a key attraction for me...I am a legitimate foodie...accomplished palate, and all. While I enjoyed a nice steak, I also ordered one of my personal favorites - truffle fries. They are potatoes drizzled in truffel oil with parmesan cheese. Contrary to populat belief...a truffel is not a chocolate mushroom. Chocloate truffles are made from chocolate chips and cream. Truffels (the spelling different, too!) are small fungus/mushrooms rooted out by pigs in France...they can be as much as $500 per pound. Truffel Oil offers all of the flavor, but at 1/100 of the price. We also ate at the House of Blues. The restaurant was named this, in part to how patrons felt after their meal...after eating, I was so sad that I nearly cried. TERRIBLE. On the menu, there was a "Southern Pulled Barbecue with MOJO spice." Being from Alabama, and recently, North Carolina, I am well versed in all smoked pig products...I have never heard of MOJO spice, but I hope it goes extinct. The meat was not pulled either...I think it may have bee ru n through a garbage disposal, though. Our last meal was eaten at Red Square, a Russian-themed restaurant. While it did not convert me into a Communist, I am not a follower of the Russian food movement...Russia, finally, is starting to prosper, and so is it's food. A country as large as Russia (much like America), has a bounty of natural and agricultural resources that transfer well to the plate. I enjoyed my duck. Chris and Lee also enjoyed my duck, and their meals, too.

We did manage to walk around on the Boardwalk...we saw the "famous" cats (which probably needed vaccinating), ladies looking for "dates", and rickshaw pushers...all new experiences for me.

Best of all, though, was the amount of new information I gained on respite and therapeutic camping. These workshops "get the wheels turning", and gave us great ideas on new games, activities, and considerations. I hope I am able to return to the conference next year, but I'll wait and see. We walked a lot, and took the stairs...so I am recovering physically. This weekend (today, Sat., & Sun.) I, along with Jonathan Casper (Program Staff) will be promoting camps in Wilimington at the Cape Fear Wildlife Expo...I can't wait to get a break! Today, the Trinity Center will be experienceing our High Team Challenge Course...they, too, are an environmental education center located near Morehead City. It will be fun to meet some people that are in a setting akin to our own. Lee will also help out...Lee is fun to have on the tower...he is comforting to nervous participants, but can also provide comic relief (not related to his clothing).

Enjoy your weekend....

Meet the Program Staff

Every season, except winter, the Eastern 4-H Center hosts a random and eccentric collection of 20-somethings that we call Program Staff. They lead programs, improve programs, occasionally create programs, keep the Program Director sane, and - as of late - cut trails and picnic areas.

I generally like to wait a while before I introduce the Program Staff to everyone...I want to make sure that they are fit for public appearances. This year I have 4 Program Staff, all of which are pretty close to normal...often, Program Staff can be hippie-esque...and while I appreciate the hippie's place in society, their time at the Eastern 4-H Center may leave them yearning for more tree-hugging and dirt worship. I have been accused of being a hippie by many people, but I am not - I swear. I am a heavy participant in activities that a hippie would never be seen performing, and also, I don't participate in common hippie activities. I will hug a tree, though. I want to give you a brief introduction and background of the Program Staff...that way, you know'em before I show'em.

Chris Sova - Chris is a pleasant boy of Fuquay-Varina...he has a degree in Biology from NC State, so he's kinda smart. He has a beard on his face. Chris served as our Health Coordinator last summer, and will continue into that role for 2009. Chris elected to stay on because he likes hard work and learning new programs...when I hired him as the Health Coordinator, I had no idea that he would turn out to be as versatile as he is today...Chris has the same affinity for laughing at his own jokes, that I do. Often times, we are the only one's that laugh at our jokes. Chris also likes to invent words and phrases...like "Cuando Cat." He has a lady friend that lives in Hertford. He likes Texas Pete hot sauce on everything from spaghetti, to rice, to Texas Pete hot sauce (yep, TP on TP).

Stephanie Spears - Stephanie is from Thomasville, North Carolina. When Stephanie arrived at the Eastern 4-H Center, she brought several years of experience through working at zoos. This has really helped in managing the staff house after work. Stephanie is a jokester, but can also take a joke...and does she get plenty of them! Stephanie, is kinda short, but she's still OK...she cooks something tasty everynight, but usualluy only cooks one item. Two nights ago, she cooked a batch of cornbread, nothing else. I like her philosophy of dining - don't crowd your plate with fillers and go straight for the good stuff! Stephanie is also an experienced ballet and jazz dancer. I am not an experienced dancer at all. Stephanie is fun to have around!

Joe Herbert - Joe is from all over the country, but mainly Ohio. While Joe was in college, he got a degree in what is essentially Camp Programming...he might have finished Magna Cum Laude...He brings lots of intelligence and experience to our programs. He also brings a "little sarcasm." He takse pity on none of us, but does laugh at our jokes on the inside. Joe is quick-witted, but is a really nice guy...he's nice enough to make the rest of us nice...quite a quality. He is self-admittedly quasi-hippie and somewhat earthy. Joe is not really growing a beard.

Jonathon Casper is our resident bearded Program Staffer. Casper is called by his last name, because nobody likes the word "Jonathon" (I'm not really sure why, but this is the only logical explanation). And like the ghost, he is very friendly. Despite his enormity and former football experience he's virtually a Teddy Bear. Casper's "no non-sense" way of life is enlightening to others...he only speaks when he has a good thought or insightful insight. He understands the natural world better than any person I know, partly because he spends so much time afield. I have surmised that his beard is maintained to add as camoflauge. As much as his beard offers adaptation, mine offers mutualism.

All Program Staff are, admittedly, a tiny bit weird...They generally like to work. They work a long way from home. They like to work close to home. They adapt to new environments quickly. They like to work outside, in all of its elements. They are super-smart...our nightly Jeopardy episodes are competitive. Inside jokes are the norm, and generally make little sense. They are my favorite people, bar none. They are respected by each other and themselves. They have high levels of confidence and courage. They are "my people." And I will stand by them, good and bad, to make them all good, all the time.

My streak over Lee stretched to 4 days. We are 50 days away from "Dock of the Bay", which means I am 50 days away from staining my outfit with bacon-wrapped scallops and chocolate. Next week, my blogging will be limited because I will be at a Camping Conference. I am visiting Raleigh this weekend. The UNC Nurses' retreat will commence this weekend, as well as the Wildlife Resource Trapper's Workshop. Program Staff might be planning to visit the Croatan National Forest this weekend, among other local areas. Enjoy your weekend!

Attacked, Allegations of screaming, northeast dialect

For any newcomer to the northeast of The Old North State, there are several indicators that you are "not in Kansas anymore." The floor-flat land, swamps, bears, red wolves, and most importantly - the accent - are a few things that may be new to piedmont'ers. Being from Alabama, I have always been accused of having an accent, but nevertheless, the accent in this portion of North Carolina is paralleled by none. Why is this important? Yesterday, I was approached/attacked by a "myse" (mouse to the rest of us). While I hold that I have few fears in life, a shifty little mouse is something I don't want crawling down my shirt or in my hair. And like every place out in the country, occassionaly a mouse will sneak into the "in of doors." Now, nobody in their right mind would believe that I am scared of a mouse...I'm not scared of snakes or gators! The only things that frighten me are:

(1)Someone hiding under my desk (which happens twice a summer, always by David Bornfleth).
(2)Running out of gasoline.
(3)My girlfriend.

Here's the story:

Yesterday, during a staff meeting (which was the fastest on record), a small mouse appeared in the corner. Lee and I tried to catch the critter. As the mouse crept into hiding, he reappearred very close to my skin like a bolt of lightning. ALLEGEDLY, I released a scream that would not be considered masculine in front of the entire staff. Terri, our housekeeper said..."Luke et Chayse, heez skeered uhva leetle myse!" The English translation is "Look at Chase, he is scared of a little mouse!" Terri has a very unique accent that portrays her link to the land and history of our region.

While many regions of the country have their own special accents, I regard the Inner Banks accent as the most endearing. Unlike deep south or appalachian accents, which are regarded as "slow", the Inner Banks accent is a result of extreme isolation fro the outside world. If you really want to hear this accent, visit Ocracoke Island or any beach town between Ocracoke and Frisco. The accent, when spoken fluently, is reminiscent of a British "tongue." The accent has been trapped in this region, which has little outside influence with the exception of tourists. Unfortunately, the accent is beginning to disappear, and with it, its charm. Terri and her husband Glenn (who also has the accent), have yet to pass it on to their son. Most young children in the entire Inner/Outer Banks region have neglected the accent in today's global society. But, we can still have fun learning the language/accent.

Since the accent is pretty commonplace around these parts, I, too, have picked up some of the words. I now have replaced the common word "county" with "caynty"... the "ow" sound is replaced with the "ay" sound. There is a common phrase that is uttered when wanting to replicate the Inner Banks Brogue...give it a try: "It's hoy toyd on the saynd soyd" is the Inner Banks version of "It's high tide on the sound side".

There are also some intersting variations in phrases - In Ocracoke, the mail "calls over", where as in other arts of North Carolina, the mail is "put in the mailbox".

There are also other words that are used...below is a reference/glossary that you should print out and take with yo the next time you visit the Inner/Outer Banks. You can speak the words to blend in, or at least understand them!

"Addled" means confused...here's a sentence - "Lee's hairdo looks addled."
"Begombed" means dirty or greasy...here's a sentence..."Chase's shirt is begombed with barbecue"
"Buck" is a term that means male friend..."Charles Midgette is a buck."
"Catawampus" means not in straight order or disorganized..."Bud parked his motorcycle catawampus."
"Doast" means sick, or being sick..."I glad that Ms. Mittie isn't doast, she's nearly healed from her cold."
"Goaty" means stinky..."After a summer camp day, Chase is goaty."
"Mommucking" means irritating. "The brightness of Lee's shirt is mommucking me."
"Pizer" translates to porch..."Teresa's pizer overlooks Bulls Bay."
"Scud" means to ride or give a ride in a vehicle. "Sara and Nikki have a short scud to work."
"Young'uns" are young children, or young one's..."Camp is full of young'uns."

Also, "meehonkey" is a game of hide-and-seek, "fatback" is a type of fish, and a "wampus cat" is a fictitious (allegedly) cat that frequents the swamps.

Back to the mouse...I was only startled by the mouse's rapid appearance. The "screaming" I did was actually purposeful...I was trying to duplicate the sound of a soaring bald eagle...mice and eagles are mortal enemies. The mouse is still on the prowl. Below is a picture of the mouse that did not scare me.


Also - only 51 days until "Dock of the Bay", and my streak over Lee stretches to 3 days in a row.

Coming soon...

March is busy, in a weird way. The Program Staff has a lot of prep to do to get ready for our April and May months. These months are "slam-packed" with groups, Challenge Course retreats, Rotary Youth Leadership Awards, Spring Break Day Camp (Flyer above), and School Groups.

Next week, I will be at an ACA Conference, getting up-to date information on adaptive camping program techniques...soon as that's over I will peddle my wares at a local expo.

Spring Break Day Camp was MIA last year, but it's now up for renewal...There have been several registrants, and more to come, I'm sure! This year, campers will be able to do a little rock climbing, some craft projects, a little Challenge Course, a little ecology, a little sports, a little of this, and a little of that! It will be FUN!!! The best indicator of a fun day camp is when parents say "When I checked my child out, they fell asleep on the way home!" We like to challenge kids both physically and mentally...most people don't give youth the credit they deserve for being so ingenious. They are not set in their ways like adults, and are WAY more free-spirited. They also do not understand the words: regulation, red tape, policy, guideline, or rules. These words keep us safe in an adult society, but give children the free reign to question nature and gravity. Thank goodness we have adults on the program staff who do understand these words and the nature of kids to question nature and gravity.

In totally related news, I, for the second day in a row, beat Lee to the office. Terri, our housekeeper, ended my streak of one day, by being the first overall present in the office. Terri may actually sleep here...I'm not convinced she ever leaves. She is a pleasant site to walk into every morning. Her accomplice, Cindy, is also good for a hearty exchange of semi-pleasantries. Cindy and I appear to argue to many, but it's only our way of showing appreciation for each other. Cindy is also a champion lawnmower racer.

There is a North Carolina Wildlife Resource Commission Trapper's Workshop on-site. I will attempt to not be trapped. Trapper's are important people in society...they are often the first to report diseased wildlife and changing wildlife populations. All of their traps are "live" traps.

Today, Program Staff are working on completing the Challenge Course clean-up. Stephanie and Joe learned to use a leaf blower. They have since broken all of the rakes and hid them. We created two new processing/debriefing areas for our groups to discuss their teambuilding progress/prowess. We will also be inspecting canoes and kayaks for any problems. I like to hire smart people...they make my life much easier.

Also - We are only 52 days away from "On the Dock of the Bay"...

Apologies for yesterday's blog

Like all media outlets, I have decided to place my apology at the bottom of this post, so that if you get tired of reading the blog, you will not see my apologies.

Today, the Program Staff and myself will be "playing in the woods" near the Challenge Course...we will be clearing old limbs from around the elements, so that there is more "play" room. Our Challenge Course programs are amazing - in case you were wondering. Lee is a strong believer in Challenge Course elements not being viewed as "obstacles", but rather as a series of initiatives that grow or progress as the group does...I am the same way, but only after Lee got me straight. There are actually few that understand the Challenge Course process. Most people do not realize how much planning goes into such a program. It's not just learning names and playing games. Processing questions (good ones, anyway) allow the group to measure their own progress. Youth groups are fun, but I relish the opportunity to lead adult groups...adults can be set in their ways...and few expect that we can truly bring unity to a group of strangers, but we can and we do, always.

Today's efforts will also include making small Challenge Course repairs and corrections, so that it is the safest it can possibly be...also, our Team Challenge Course is inspected 4 times a year - 3 times by me, and once by a builder. We have a whole bunch of elements, so inspection can take a while...especially since the Challenge Course is in the woods, fighting with the worst nature can throw at it...but unless Mother Nature deals us a hurricane, we can inspect and make needed repairs fairly easy. While all programs are reviewed, the Challenge Course is the most intensive. Every Spring Season has us reviewing curriculum, checking canoes/kayaks/sailboats, pumping up soccer balls, repairing volleyball nets, and completing inventory on EVERYTHING, even First Aid kits. Good programs are backed by these logistical measures. Also, there is nothing worse than expecting to play soccer, and when the ball is kicked out, it is as flat as a pancake.

In Program Staff Free Time News, we will be taking a trip to Lake Mattamuskeet this afternoon. The largest natural lake in North Carolina is a site to behold...and this will be one of the last days to see the lake full of it's wintering waterfowl. Annually, nearly 1 MILLION birds winter in the area, most notably the Tundra Swan. There are also alligators, bears, and deer to be seen round the lake. Lake Mattamuskeet is also a pocosin lake..."google" the term pocosin lake to learn more...and "google" Lake Mattamuskeet to learn more about it's formation and one of history's biggest follies. We will also eat at Harris' - a restaurant known for it's seafood...it's an old country restaurant, but it is good.

Recently, I was photographed by a papparazo - so I will allow you to see the picture, in fact, it's at the top of the post...it was captured on the red carpet somewhere...it is of Callie, Olivia, and your's truly.

Now my apology....

After limited, but loud outcry from one term used in yesterday's blog, I owe my two "redneck" friends a clarification. I do not view the term "redneck" as a bad word, but rather as a term of endearment. In fact, I taught them a thing or two....The term "redneck" began in the first half of the 20th century...It spurred from the "Hatfield - McCoy" rivalry in the coal mines of West Virginia...The mountain-folk wore red bandanas around their neck to signify their solidarity within the union...they were called rednecks, because they all wore the bandanas on their march to Blair Mountain, where they fought non-rednecks. While the rednecks didn't win the battle, they gained sympathy and the moniker gained recognition for honest, hardworking people.

Kid in Kandy Store

The weekend has come and gone...and it was FUN! The Dixie Deer Classic delivered another wonderful show. I spoke with lots of youth who I am certain will join us for the third rendition of Camp Canvasback. Many were also interested in Camp Millstone's Fur, Fish & Game Rendezvous.

But - here's my weekend recap.

Carolina beat Duke, in a battle of two evils, the least evil triumphed. Tyler Hansbrough will be graduating, much to the joy of many non-Carolina fans. I think he was good for the game...a lot like Florida's quarterback, Tim Tebow. Both are true competitors, that played hard and hurt early and often. I hope I raise a child who appreciates competition.

I limited my purchases at the Dixie Deer Classic, but as mentioned in the title, I was excited. I only bought a pair of sunglass retainers (like "croakies"), but they were FRESH! I paid to much, but they are basically one of a kind...as a collector of rare and stupid redneck art, I deemed them a neccessity. I failed to spend money on any clothing, framed art, or game calls...good for me. My level of restraint was second to none this weekend.

I also got word that my wallet (which was lost in Alabama over the holiday) was recovered on the side of the Troy Highway. I know how the wallet fell out there...it involved my dad and lot's of coffee at a rest area...I took the wallet out and placed it in a precarious place. It was recovered in a grass fire by a volunteer firefighter. After looking through the wallet, he contacted me...I will soon be the owner f two proud wallets and a little more peace of mind!

I also went to an engagement party/"couple's wake". As sad as marriage is, this group seemed a bit happy. Apparently they like each other enough to live together for the rest of their lives. I wish them well...Amy and Robby are a lot of fun...they were friends of my girlfriend, Callie.

Olivia, Callie's and MY teacup schnauzer has learned to climb to the kitchen countertop, but only when we are not around. Last week, she ate a "blowpop", and this time she tossed Callie's watch to the carpeted floor. She does little wrong, but I now understand why parents say "I hate punishing you more than you hate being punished." Thanks for sparing me Mom & Dad...I know you didn't enjoy it.

We have a busy week up next...Program Staff are working on Ecology lesson plans, Rock Wall improvements, and Summer Staff Training schedules. We will welcome several groups this week...as the Center thaws out from winters icy hand, groups are able to enjoy our facility the way it was meant!

Congratulations are in order for Chris Sova, Program Staff, and Lara Spruill, former Program Staff for their acceptance into nursing school. One day both of you will make more money than I could ever count. Good luck when school starts. Chris celebrated with his girlfriend, Sara (former counselor) over T-Bone Steaks. Early reports say that the steaks were good. I ate at the Cheesacake Factory yesterday, and hated it. But two light lunches later, they are the proud owners of 40 of my hard-earned dollars. thank you for indulging me in this light-hearted, yet irrelevant rambling this morning.

No Blog yesterday :(

Yesterday was SOOO busy; I couldn't even blog to tell you I couldn't blog! Today will be busy, but I will give you a short blog.

This weekend will be a "working weekend", which is a bit like a "working lunch" except that it will be longer. I will be able to enjoy the weekend, while working...I think. At approximately 2:00 pm on Saturday, I will make my grand entrance at the Dixie Deer Classic. Contrary to popular belief, the Dixie Deer Classic is not a golf tournament that is played by deer. It is however, one of the largest collection of outdoor enthusiasts in the country. The Wake County Wildlife Club sponsors this event. The Club also sponsors the Fur, Fish & Game Rendezvous at Millstone 4-H Camp. This is the kind of club I want to be a part of! Any club that supports hunter education and youth development has to be good.

Festivities will include Turkey Calling instructions (dial 5 for gobblers?), a retriever demonstration (wish I had a nice lab, I get tired of swimming for ducks), Bowhunter's Association Banquet (no, no - the Bow hunters are eating, not eaten), and the Big Buck contest (not a counterfeiting competition, but an opportunity for people to show of their taxidermied trophy and have it scored).

Believe it or not, many husbands will be granted permission to attend this event. In fact, I have always seen a lot of women attend the event. I have long held that women are far better shooters than men, and many women are also better hunters...they maintain the patience that men do not have in the wilderness. So, if a husband doesn't get permission, he had better be careful upon his return to the homestead.

I look forward to this annual event...I will be "plugging the Fur, Fish & Game Rendezvous...I will be at the NC 4-H Camp booth, right next to the Wake County Wildlife Club's booth...come check out my ugly mug. I will also take time to peruse the other booths and ogle the products peddled by people from all over the country. The Wake County Wildlife Club is a great partner to NC 4-H...among many. So come out and let me talk you into a week of camp!

What is 4-H?

This post may be a bit heady for most readers, but it has been on my mind...

If someone asked you to draw a picture of 4-H, what would it look like? There are some stipulations - 4-H is not just a clover, so you can't draw one...or you can't give me a picture of a utopian, politically-approved picture of happy children standing in front of a flag...these are not 4-H. It's not a picture of a child with a ribbon for a perfect presentation or a big, fat hog, either. It's not a certificate or a scholarship, and it's not a picture of volunteers and agents...these things come and go, right?

If someone asked you to draw a tree, it would be easy...it is tangible. Is 4-H tangible? You can see 4-H in action, right? But you can't go to a store and buy a 4-H. I was asked the other day "Why is 4-H private?" Obviously, I laughed at the thought. 4-H is public and it is for the entire public. It's for the public masses in the cities of New York, Chicago, and Houston. It's also for the public masses in Engelhard and Sunbury, and every other tiny town in America. It's also international. But why do people "buy in" for something they can't buy? Is it the 100 years of history? Maybe...but I don't buy into something to enjoy it's past...and few people do. Paintings and sculptures are bought for their history. Football tickets aren't bought to celebrate past seasons of glory. They are bought with the hope that the future brings. An intangible promise of hope is what 4-H is...a hope to get better at stuff you have never done and improve on stuff you have done.

Growing up in Alabama, in the woods, 4-H was the only game in town. In big cities, people have options, right? Boys & Girls Club....Scouts, FFA, FHA...maybe a couple of others, if you're lucky. But these groups rarely entered my train of thought or county lines. It would have been nice to have these options, too. There is Scout Camp, but I'm not sure about the others. 4-H has a camp...I work at one. I have also heard folks mention that 4-H is only for farm kids and is based on an agricultural program...and I even heard someone say "I can't believe 4-H is still around"...that statement was probably based on the aforementioned statements about farm kids. All great organizations, if willing to survive, have to keep up with the needs of the public. Technology can't outdo 4-H, right? Circuit City couldn't! 4-H outlasted the techno retailer. That makes me proud. Want insurance? 4-H insured my future with tangible skills from an organization that is known by many...4-H insurance or AIG insurance...you pick. Looking for something...try 4-H or Google - you'll probably find something with either of those...I like being in the same group as Google...and if you are ever bored, "google" your own name.

4-H is turning 100 years old...there will be a Gala, parties, and awards to celebrate this occasion. But, 4-H does more than turn 100 years old every 100 years. It gives people potential, realizes potential, and provides for hope. Everybody could use a little hope, right now. I hope I live to see 4-H turn 200 years old, but I will not. My great-grandchildren will, though. I hope that by then, it has outlasted Google. What makes 4-H great are the kids it serves, and the kids that serve it. 4-H will watch lots of companies come and go, but it will be here as long as there are kids...and that may be a while. While 4-H turns 100 years old, understand that 4-H is always young at heart.

Lucky Number 7

Seven is a really neat number...the numeral is representative about many things...There are seven deadly sins, seven days in a week, and seven comes before eight. I was born on the seventh day of May. My girlfriend Callie was born on the seventh day of December. The Eastern 4-H Center is seven miles from the Town of Columbia.

Most importantly, today's wind chill is 7 degrees. SEVEN DEGREES! It is so cold, Lee has decided to turn the heat on for the first time this winter! There have been few days in my life where I have experienced such bone chilling conditions. I usually prefer extreme conditions...really hot or really cold...but this is the equivalent of a 130 degree summer day. There is nothing you can do about it. I don't own enough clothes to cover up with. My winter beard is finally paying off. I (yeah, I cut my own hair) did cut my hair recently, so my noggin is cold.

The dock is completely iced over...trust me I just slipped on it. The rocks on the bank have ice shells on them that are 3 inches thick. The cypress knees that are poking out of the water look like popsicle sticks. The foam on the sandy banks along the wetlands is frozen. It is ridiculously cold. It's been too cold for too long.

Mosquitoes don't like the cold either. I am glad they are freezing. I hope they don't appear this summer. Last week, the program staff reported bug bites - not uncommon for the 70 degree temps of last week. By the end of the week, we will return to the 70's. I would like 7 days of 70.

The swimming pool is frozen solid...I wish summer visitors could experience the raw beauty of this place in the winter. Living on any shoreline has its benefits, but its not for the light-hearted...don't think so? Go to the Outer Banks in January...you'll understand why the homes are "summer homes" - the place is barren. But the folks at the Center are tough. The citizens in Columbia, and all around the Sound, are tough. But now we're just cold.

Today is Sara Phelps (Marketing Director) birthday...she turned 25 years old today...so wish her a happy birthday (or ask her about Dock of the Bay) by email at sara_phelps@ncsu.edu!

The Most Boringest Weekend EVER!

Winter weekends at the Eastern 4-H Center can be difficult...it's to windy and cool for program groups to brave the elements. This weekend was no exception. Generally, I enjoy the winter time. The Center gets it's rest after a full spring, summer, and fall. The Program Director gets a rest after a full spring, summer, and fall, too.

In the winter time, I take advantage of my accrued vacation time to duck hunt. For those of you who don't duck hunt, I will tell you what it's like: On days that end with the letter "y" (except Sunday), the dedicated duck hunter wakes up at 2:30 am. After putting on 25.79 pounds of waterproof (semi, in my case) and windproof clothing, the dedicated hunter then consumes a metric carafe full of coffee. After this takes place, it is then deemed OK to load the boat trailer and head for the boat ramp, which is anywhere from 3-40 miles away. Once the dedicated duck hunter loads his/her boat with another dedicated hunter (never hunt alone!), supplies, and decoys (fake ducks that encourage other ducks to land near the hunter), the journey to the hunt location is ready to take place. Most hunters use spotlights to navigate through the swamps and rivers, and I am no different. Once all of the decoys are placed, and hunters are located in their positions, it is time to wait for the sunrise...my personal highlight. For the next 2 hours, hunters will complain about how cold it is and then it is time to leave.

Once hunting season has expired, weekends are best spent with chores and books, both of which I am highly allergic to. Generally I go to Sanford to visit my girlfriend and our miniature schnauzer, Olivia. This weekend, however, I braved the boredom of the Staff House at the Eastern 4-H Center. Normally, there is little to no precipitation. This weekend we got about 3" of rain, so I stared out the window all weekend. I couldn't go kayaking, running, or sightseeing. Nevertheless, the program staff and I took the rain in stride and ventured to the Outer Banks for some Rainy Day Fun.

Like any grand tour of the Outer Banks, we made our first stop at the Dollar Tree. I purchased Drano, Fig Newtons, and Banana Chips ( personal favorite of State OMK Coordinator Scott Enroughty). The program staff purchased some odd and end items (mostly odd, though). Next, we went to Five Guys for burgers...if you haven't eaten at Five Guys, you are missing out! This place is sooooo good! Once you enter the building, you are forced with the opportunity to eat free roasted peanuts. I took the dare and ate enough to impress an elephant. My burger was good, too. Everybody enjoyed their burgers and the special "hand cut fries."

After eating, we toured TW's tackle shop. The famous Outer Bank's fishing is not a part of my repertoire, but I indulged my program staffs' fishing priorities. Apparently cean fish like to eat plastic worms and fake fish. There were many lures bigger than any fish I had ever caught!

It was time for our final stop - The Decoy Store! Old waterfowl decoys are a hot collectors' item for many reasons. I enjoy the historical part about it...finding a cool looking decoy that was carved by an Atlantic Coast waterfowler many generation ago is really neat. Some people enjoy the high level of skill that is involved in forming an accurate decoy. I purchased a decoy, that was constructed around 1950 - it is a Black Duck, which is a prize duck on the east coast. I also saw a book written by a proud supporter of the Eastern 4-H Center and Camp Canvasback - Khrogie Andresen! the book focuses on decoys from Virginia and North Carolina...Mr. Andresen is also a noted collector of decoys. His book, "Gunnin' Birds", is a must read!

It rained our entire trip...as much as I wanted to get back to the Center, I should have known that it would be boring. Nothing was on the TV. We spent a lot of time on the internet, in fact, we found the end of the internet. We read every magazine we had, twice. I was so bored, I couldn't even cook. I thought the upcoming snow would make it better, but we got no snow...just more rain. I was so bored, I couldn't wait to get to work this morning...and I was the first one here! This week will not be boring...we are entertaining a Quilting Retreat, planning for our upcoming Operation 4-Heroes Camp, and interviewing summer staff. Odds are, I want be bored for another 11 months...guess I should have enjoyed it more!