4th Annual Youth Camp Held
SGW Carlos Gomez

Thirty-nine sets of bright eyes, excitement, and energy,arrived in Ponca City on June 9, 2002 to create a sort of organized chaos. From nervous beginnings on Monday, they struggled to introduce themselves (with hands in their pockets); they talked to the floor with a soft voice. A week activities, filled with training, lectures, shooting guns and bows, swinging in a "ropes course" and lots of other fun events help to instill trust and teamwork among peers.

Initially, a few wanted to call home before their parents have had time to get there. Interacting begins slowly. Some 'trope' around, a little nervous, talking like they want to go home (and some almost pleading). After some encouragement they're saying "maybe I can make it till Wednesday" (when parents return for an evening get-together hog and chicken feast). By Wednesday, they're wishing their parents wouldn't come to the feast because they fear they've really 'worked up' their folks about taking them home (and they
Don't want to go!).

By Friday morning there are some hugs, some tears and many campers trying to figure out how to get accepted back into next years camp (only one time each!). They've made some good friends from around the state. They learn that some are 'neighbors' from the next town over, others have bonded across 200 miles.

Just a few of the dedicated wildlife employees helping to run this "once in a lifetime experience" were Tracy Daniel of Kay County, Brady May of Cherokee, Linda Powell of Marshall, James Edwards, Jr. of Caddo, Jay Harvey of Bryan, Terry Swallow of Woods, Paul Cornett of Lincoln, Julia Matlock, Assistant Manager of the Byron Fish Hatchery and Steve Burge, Information Specialist from the SE regional office.

Donors play a vital role in the ongoing excellence of this summer experience. Ponca City area merchants `step up to the plate' by providing food and services throughout the week. McDonald's Restaurant, Head Country BBQ, Sonic )rive-in, Burger King, Lost Legend Restaurant, Kentucky lied Chicken, Lake Side Grocery, Warren Frantz (local landowner), Friends of NRA and Conoco Inc. were major players (39 kids eat a lot of food!). ODWC provided vehicles, manpower and publicity. OSGWA "carried the ball" as the main cash contributor supporting the camp.
Applicants wishing to apply for next years summer camp will have to complete a 75 word essay, provide a letter of recommendation (other than a family member), and be ages 14 to 16 by camp date. No wildlife employee's kids are allowed. This is not a game warden "grooming" camp but an effort by wardens to expose kids to opportunities and careers in the wildlife field that might not otherwise get that chance.