I love this about Kanakuk Kamps

Lindsay and Mollye on the Superman Swing during their weekend trip to Kanakuk Klassic.


Marketing Intern Adam McClure gets a cut. Who will entertain us when you are gone?

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Promises

Rainbow over Kanakuk from the gate of Grant* Holcomb's Farm.

Yesterday I made a to do list, promises to myself that I couldn't keep. In contrast...

God said, Genesis 9:13-15 (New American Standard Bible)

13I set My bow in the cloud, and it shall be for a sign of a covenant between Me and the earth.

14"It shall come about, when I bring a cloud over the earth, that the bow will be seen in the cloud,

15and I will remember My covenant, which is between Me and you and every living creature of all flesh; and never again shall the water become a flood to destroy all flesh.

Tomorrow is "change over" day at Kanakuk. The last term of 13-day Kampers are packing their trunks and fighting over which seat they get in the car on the way here. It's rained nearly every change over day and lots of days in between :-) It's been a wet summer.

On my way to work this morning as I pulled out of my driveway about 9 minutes from K-1 and K-Kountry I could see this rainbow (sorry for the bad picture, laptop cam). I thought about all I have to do today and the poor performance of yesterday. The overwhelming nature of the Fall months to come. About the "rain" that seemed seems to be flooding in at the moment.

It might have been a wet summer, but as I drove the windy road, getting my bearings, I could tell that rainbow sat right over the Branson Kamps including my office. I took it as a promise of a dry arrival for Kampers tomorrow and no more than I can handle today at work.

Are you struggling today, overwhelmed, wondering when the next rain is going to pummel you? Be encouraged, as I have been, that the promises of God control this Earth and all that is in it. That's you and me friends. Fear not the rain. Thanks for the prayers for Kanakuk. Pray today especially for the Staff, they are incredible, dedicated to service. They are relying on the promise too.

My "To Do" list for today:

1. Blog Post
2. Finish Cleaning My Desk
3. Meet with Kanakuk Ministries Board Member Tony C.
4. Fax the confidentiality agreement to BroadRamp
5. Finalize the concept for the Kanakuk Display booth
6. Write content for the "The Story", "The Kamps", "The People", and "The Impact" pages of the new website

Whew...that's enough. Just typing that list I think I felt a drop of rain in my office. I may not get it all done and guess what, it's OK. It's more important that I surrender it all to God. He knows what of that he wants done today, it's His work to do through me. What a relief.

I have two blog post ideas going for tomorrow. Talking about the new website. Or defining the word "connectersationalism". Which would you prefer talking about? Something else maybe?

Now Playing: Out Of The Woods by Nickel Creek

*Grant Holcomb lives a couple of miles from my house and runs a Bobcat, excavation service in addition to his farm work. He's pushed some dirt at my house.

Update: Meeting with Tony C. moved to K-Kauai (lose 30 minutes), not having to finish my desk (gain back 15 minutes). Coffee with JGM (gain back 15 minutes)

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Facebook Connect and You and Me

There is much about the new Facebook Connect that I don't understand. Thankfully Jeremy works here. He gets it.

What I do understand is that with a little effort on our part you can login to Facebook on kanakuk.com and let your friends know what you are doing. Here is an example of a site set-up to demonstrate how it works.

While I think what they did with the demo site is pretty cool, I'm not sure that's the way we would want to implement it on the Kanakuk Kamps website. It feels like the connection is pretty loose and the lack of information about exactly what will be shared would make me hesitant. How would you feel about letting your Facebook friends know that you just registered for next summer, or posted to the Kanakuk "Sayso" forums area, or just commented on a Director's blog post? If you get a chance to check out Facebook's example site, please let me know what you think.

Whatever we do it will be with your permission. You'll have total control over how Facebook connects you with your Kanakuk experience.

Yesterday I posted about the Ricky Jimmerson and Tracy Ashcraft taking on Director roles at the new KAA facility (this year's Kanakuk Klassic). If I had been thinking I would have asked you then if you would be willing to give those two a word of encouragement. Can you jump back to yesterday and post a comment?


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KAA - Kanakuk Klassic Director memo

Memorandum
To: Kids Across America and Kanakuk Staff
From: Dana Thomas
Date: July 24, 2008
Re: Staff Announcements

As the year continues to unfold, you will see some staff changes.
I’d like to announce that Ricky Jimmerson, Director of KAA 3, will assume the position of Director of KAA Extreme and Tracy Ashcraft, Women’s Director of Kanakuk’s K-Klassic, will be joining Ricky, as the Women’s Director of KAA Extreme.
I encourage you to pray for Ricky Jimmerson and Tracy Ashcraft, as they begin this new journey as directors of KAA Extreme with many exciting and challenging responsibilities.
The new director for KAA 3 is still pending. We will make that announcement once the decisions have been made and finalized.
Thank you!
Dana


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Tim Oliphant American Gladiator Spotted at Starbucks

I went to Starbucks this morning with my wife and her aunt who was down from Canada. While there, Tim Oliphant, from the American Gladiators show, came in. He noticed that the place was full of flies, which it was. He grabbed a Branson newspaper and started whacking the flies. It was crazy! Here are some pics.

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Lake Shore Drive Bridge Update - It's Open!

This morning the bridge looked like this. More like a bridge but still clearly under construction. I had a meeting with Doug at Starbucks in downtown Branson, so at 11:00 I made what would turnout to be one last trek around the detour. By late this afternoon the bridge was open and looked like this.

County Commissioner, Danny Strahan, who oversees road issues came by the office to officially let us know that the bridge was open. He said it was a 90 day project that was completed in just 27 days! It obviously didn't just magically appear there. Some serious hard work and sweat went into getting it done. Many thanks to everyone involved throughout Taney County.

K-1 parents coming to closing ceremonies next week will get to enjoy the new bridge. We sure do thank all our parents who patiently and graciously came the "long way" around to pick up their children!

It's been a great summer already. So many Kampers have put down deep spiritual roots and left a legacy in the hearts of the Directors and counselors. What a privilege it is for us to share just a little time with your children.

Earlier I met with Collin Sparks, the K-Kountry Assistant Director. He's already planning for the winter and thinking about the best ways to stay connected with all his new friends. It's obvious he's pouring out every ounce of energy to make this summer life-changing for every Kamper. Thanks Collin for loving on our kids.

I just met with JGM about innovation, man I love working with that guy, he super creative! I've never met someone with his spreadsheet skills who loves to think big picture, and out of the box like he does. It's really fun and I'm blessed.



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Facebook Changes

Jeremy our Web Programmer just got back from the Facebook Conference F8 in San Fransisco. This afternoon we are meeting to go over everything he learned about how we can connect the people who come to www.kanakuk.com with their Facebook profile.

I promise I'll get back to you on what I find out.

Are you on Facebook?


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Remembering Spike

8 years ago when I started working at Kanakuk, Spike White, Darnell's husband and Joe's dad, was still loving on the place and the people that make up Kanakuk Kamps. He was such a great encouragement to me for those first few years of working here. He more than anyone helped me understand the past and to see the threads that have run constant through Kanakuk over time. I took some time the other day to write these remembrances down. I didn't want them to be lost. He was a great man and a great example to all of us.

Spike and lifelong friend Jack Herschend, kayaking.

Spike would come to my office early in the morning, telling me stories, praising me and encouraging me in my work in a special way that no one had ever done or has done since. He had a special “guy” way of making you feel important, but not too important for your own britches! A fine line that few master, but he did. I called those 6:00 am moments with him my "Spike Time" and I had far to few of them before he passed away.

I cherish the fact that I was among some of the last employees hired to get the “Spike” tour of the grounds. Hearing on the trip the little nuggets about who built what and what used to be from one of the "engineers" of this place. Nuggets that I was too naive then to file away as important. I think of him every time I walk across the red walk way bridge and think about how it took someone with his personality and skills to get this place on it's feet again in the 50's.

I think my favorite thing he used to do was arrive through the mailroom door, full mail tub in hand and announce “The MAIL is here. That’s M-A-I-L!” He would spell the last slowly so that you didn’t miss it:-) He would go to the mail annex in Hollister everyday to get the mail so we would have it just a few hours earlier. He would take things to the employees at the annex and no doubt his encouraging spirit was felt there too.

His truck, as well, was a testament to his frugality and “get the job done” way he lived his life. It had things in it that he had rescued, things that others had tossed out as waste, he saw something valuable in them. That red truck was covered with bumps and bruises from his travels around Kamp and the whole community, to encourage all those he came in contact with. It communicated so much about what Kanakuk is about.

In the Spring Spike would ask me, and I’m sure many others, if I was ready for summer. I’d always respond “no” to which he would say “Well the kids are coming!” and off he’d go like there was no point in worrying about it, that God would take care of it, because the kids were coming whether we were ready or not! That lesson has served me well.

Spike and Darnell White

I know many who read this blog have been associated with Kanakuk long enough that you too have stories about Spike. Share them with us all by leaving a comment.

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New I'm Third Movie

I am absolutely busting at the seams! Our Media Director Tim Oliphant, also of American Gladiator fame, just finished a new short film that communicates the I'm Third philosophy.
The I'm Third life philosophy has been a foundation of Kanakuk for so many years and a vital part of the growth that Kampers experience during a term here. One of Tim's strengths is Communication and he does such a great job of piecing things together so that you and I can feel it too.

Enjoy this short film and please leave your comments about it.

This is a preview. We'll eventually have a fully credited, high quality version available over at www.kanakuk.com. While I'm at it I'll leak something about the new website: We are planning special "easter eggs" on the home page of the new site. The first one will be typing "JOY" on the keyboard then you'll get a surprise. New www.kanakuk.com coming in September.

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Tim Oliphant American Gladiators Watch Party Recap

Tim on the big screen at the American Gladiators watch party Monday Night.

Atlasphere being announced.

Ashley Robbins (blue), Jason Arellano (sitting far left) and Joe White (coming up the stairs).

Tim taking questions after the show.

Tim Oliphant talking to some of his youngest fans.

I couldn’t get a web connection at IMAX so here is a quick recap of the watch party.
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Friends of Tim filled the IMAX Cinema III theater. Tim played bouncer at the door.

As the show started the crowd began to cheer. With the first muscle flex the room erupted. Friendly “boos” rang out when Tim’s competition was introduced.

Tim taunted the Gladiators and announced that, “He’s ready!”

As Toa collided with Tim the crowd groaned, but Tim took the win in Rocketball.

Tim stood in the back with Kris Cooper during the show, laughing and critiquing his performance. He greeted people as they came and went.

Of course you know the rest because you watched the show…

After the show, the lights were brought up and Tim thanked IMAX for allowing the use of their theater. He mentioned that IMAX is thinking about doing other TV type showings in their theaters.

Tim answered questions about the show. Almost slipping up about the results of future shows. He held it together though and the future remains sealed.

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Lake Shore Drive Bridge Update

It's getting close! We were really hoping that the bridge work would get done for the change over this past weekend but it didn't quite get done. The road crew is creating a nice bridge and it should be done sometime this week. I'm hoping by Thursday. It will give my lunch date and I a few more minutes together :-)

Here is a pic from just a few minutes ago.



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Who's reading my blog?

I was interested to see who was reading my blog here are the results of the poll I have been running.

24% Kanakuk Employee
63% Kanakuk Parent
5% Kanakuk Kamper
5% Kanakuk Alumni
3% Friend of Jay
3% Other

Here are some of the blogs I've been reading:

Grace and Faith for the Journey
This is our Tribe
The Bill Ward Family
The Journey
Shape Up Mom
From Dating to Diapers
Lift My Noise
Loving the Children of Zambia
Kevin Status
Shay and Ashley
Scattered Thoughts
Part of the Glue
One Moore Day
Knightly Chats (love the name of this one)
Adam Barnett
The O'Neals
Nimrod News
Claire's Chronicles
Having a Ball
Why is all my hair turning gray?
What's Next Girls?
Things with the Life of Caroline
Black Tie, White Dress
The Texas Kahleys
The Houston Mama's Handbook
Mother's Little Helper
The Life and Times of the Lindsor...
Shelton Family
Life as We Know It
Alex and Matt
here i dwell

Check them out and then join them. Blog about "Kanakuk" and I'll see yours too!


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Tim Oliphant American Gladiators Watch Party Planned

Coming tomorrow...

Kanakuk Kamps, Media Director, Tim Oliphant will be on the NBC program American Gladiators for the beginning of the Semi-Finals. There will be a watch party with Tim in attendance at the Branson IMAX theater's, Elite Cinema.

If I can get an internet connection at the theater I will be blogging again, live. 7:00 PM

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“Pardon me boy, is that the Kanakuk Choo-Choo?”

The following tid-bit of history comes from our very own Darnell White, Spike's wife and Joe's Mom. Darnell still works full-time in the accounting department at Kanakuk Kamps and is a wealth of knowledge about the early days of Kanakuk. I thought this was a great remembrance and hopefully can share some more with you in the future. Keep checking back.

“Pardon me boy, is that the Kanakuk Choo-Choo?”

The Missouri-Pacific Train from Colorado, with stops at Amarillo, Dallas, and destination to Hollister, Missouri was the transportation chosen by parents for their sons to travel to Kanakuk Kamp. Roads were not in very good condition, certainly not like today’s, and the train served a convenient and safe journey for the Kampers.


Their Return Tickets were given to the Station Master who locked them in the Depot Safe until the end of Kamp. The Kampers were met at the station to escort them via one of the two transportation steamboats: “The Sadie H.” or “The Virginia Mae” waiting at the Hollister dock on the White River (now Lake Taneycomo). The steamboats were also the Mail boats and Special Products for up and down the river, delivering at the shores to the recipients. The Kampers were deboarded on the beach of Kanakuk Kamp.

click for a larger image

The Missouri-Pacific Menu shown in the pictures was used in the Dining Car in the summer. (Quite a contrast to the McDonalds menu that Kampers choose each summer when traveling in this 21st Century to Kanakuk Kamps by bus or automobile.

Hollister Train Depot

One summer, when Spike was a counselor, there was a robbery at the Depot. The robbers broke into the safe and removed the contents – Railroad Tickets. When the Kampers heard about this, they were worried about how they would get back home without their tickets. The Station Master had combined all the Kampers Return Tickets on one form, in order to conserve space in the small safe. It seemed that form was not worthy (to the robbers) and was not stolen. Kampers were much relieved when this news was passed on to Kanakuk Kamp.

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Do you have stories you'd like to share from your days at Kanakuk?

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K-Kauai Kanakuk Family Kamp Chapel Dedication

The outside of the newly dedicated Hale Makua (House of God) Chapel at K-Kauai - Kanakuk Family Kamp.

Yesterday morning the new chapel building named the Hale Makua (House of God) was dedicated at K-Kauai - Kanakuk Family Kamp in Branson, MO.

In the Chapel, after the morning session with speaker, Greg Smalley, parents stayed to share in the dedication ceremony. Doug Goodwin, the Executive Director of K-Kauai, shared briefly with the parents about the opening day of K-Kauai in 2007. Months of hard work had culminated in a flurry of last minutes problems , but things were being taken care of and finally the grounds were all ready for the first families to arrive. Then the rain came. Several inches of rain in 45 minutes just minutes before the gates were to open. I remember that rain because my wife and I had dropped two of our kids off at K-Kountry just 15 minutes earlier. The torrent of rain came and and washed away much of the landscaping that had just been completed that morning, water flooded many of the newly finished cabanas, just that afternoon carefully cleaned and ready for families to move in. Doug described sitting, in the rain, near one of the pump stations with tears in his eyes, he realized that it wasn't going to be his strength that fixed this mess. At that moment he gave the opening day, the disaster recovery, the months of hard work to the Lord. God brought all the right people to aid in the recovery, provided just the right resources, and that first week of Kamp was amazing.

Doug described that the Chapel would be used during the winter months as the classroom for the Kanakuk Institute students. Half of the theater seating will be replaced with tables during that time.

Worship in the Hale Makua

Doug told everyone that dedicating new buildings is a tradition at Kanakuk and that he was thankful those attending Kamp that week could take part in this. He prayed and then there was a time of worship, and singing led by some of the K-Kauai summer staff.

Joe White

Joe White, President of Kanakuk Kamps, then got up and spoke. He talked about K-Kauai being a "Kingdom dream" a place that was often requested by families over the years. Doug Goodwin, he said, had a vision for the family Kamp and Joe said Doug should be the one to build it. Joe said that a family trip to Hawaii was the inspiration for the island theme.
Joe had arrived during the worship time and he related to the gathering how it might seem like a small thing but that it was really special to see all the couples holding hands or with arms around each other. It might be a small thing but a part of the dream for K-Kauai.

Joe gave some history on the spiritual foundation of America, the removal of the 10 commandments, and the downward spiral that has occured the farther we get from that Godly foundation. He said that President Reagan referred to families as the "bricks and morter of America." The dream is being fulfilled that Kanakuk Family Kamp would build up and support the bricks and morter of this country.

Joe addressed the timing of the chapel being built by saying that as construction plans were made funds ran low and it was God's timing and the realization that this place needed a special indoor chapel that brought us to this point.

Joe thanked everyone for participating in the dedication and turned the ceremony back over to Doug.

Doug shared stories of people impacted at Kanakuk Family Kamp over that last 3 summers. Even this summer already many kids have placed there faith in Jesus Christ. When they do, they ring the bell in the middle of Kamp as a public proclemation of their decision. The bell has been rung so much this summer that it's broken and being replaced with a better, stronger bell.

Doug shared that Family Kamp has introduced many families to Kanakuk and now their children have experienced the depth and impact of one of our Kamps for kids. Doug asked for people to join them in prayer that the mission and impact of the Kamp might continue.

The Dedication Prayer

Everyone in attendance got up and surrounded the sanctuary seating, holding hands, there was just enough to reach around. Will Cunningham, Co-Director of K-Kauai Kanakuk Family Kamp, open the circle in prayer. Doug then prayed a prayer of dedication and thanks to God, expressing a desire for more impact and God's blessing on the Kamp, the Chapel and all the families that come there.

The Dedication was then closed and many of the families stayed around laughing and talking for several minutes.

Joe and Doug stayed to talk to a few families as others cleared out to head to lunch and reconnecting with their kids.

The Chapel Foyer

The Hale Makua Chapel is themed like the rest of the camp with bamboo trim and weaved bamboo ceiling panels. A tall rectangular window at the front is surrounded by beautiful stone work. A custom stained glass window is planned with the cross and tennis shoes logo. A small stage at the front shares the same stone work. The building is equipped with a professional sound system, video projection, and stage lighting, and men's and women's bathroom facilities.

In my 8 years with Kanakuk I have experienced many dedications of facilities, programs and people. I appreciate seeing God get the glory for the things that happen at this place. It's clear that God uses Kanakuk to show His love. I'm glad that I can be a part of it even in a very small behind the scenes way. It's also fun to share these things with you because I know, you too, see God at work here and enjoy rejoicing with us.

Do you have a Kanakuk Family Kamp experience you can share with others? Leave a comment below.

Pictures by Lindsay.

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A chance encounter?

I wanted to post briefly this morning to let you know that a post about the Chapel dedication at K-Kauai is coming later today so check back.

I will tell you that on my way back to the office from the dedication that I ran into a car load of Kamp friends surveying the washed out bridge. They were from Texas and had arrived in Branson a day early in preparation for picking up their kids from Kamp. We got to talking and realized that one of the moms had been reading my blog. Shame on me for not remembering your names, I'm not so good at that :-) It was good to meet you and thanks for reading my blog. If there is ever anything that I can write about, Inside Kanakuk type stuff, please let me know and I'll do my best.

More coming today, including pictures of the new chapel building and comments from Joe White...

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Lake Shore Drive Bridge Update

The new culvert is in place for the new bridge! It shouldn't be too long now and we'll be back to normal. K-1 Parents the last few terms should be able to use the new bridge and we can all start saving some gas money! A big thanks to the Taney County crew for keeping this project moving.

Photo props to Lindsay. Thanx


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What is Social Media?

There's so much hype and talk about Social Media that it's a bit overwhelming. I think I'm working on that here at Kanakuk and talking about it here on this blog but what is it really? This video will be helpful for all of us on the learning side of this thing.

How are using Social Media in your life? Do you have a blog? Leave a comment below with a link to your blog.



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Guns & Machetes vs. Soccer balls

I mentioned in an earlier post that Kids Across Africa Camps (KAAC) would start a camp in Rwanda. I just wanted to get back to you with some of the details. I interviewed Jonathan Nimrod, the KAAC President briefly and I while I've been in meetings about this new endeavor for well over a year I hadn't had this perspective. It's compelling.

As you may know Rwanda is recovering from years of some of the worst civil strife and genocide in the history of mankind. The government of Rwanda desires healing for the country and wants to invest in the youth, providing them with opportunities for leadership and moral training. Jonathan, who himself experienced loss from war and genocide growing up in Africa, asks the question, "When you take away the guns and machetes from the children of Rwanda what do you replace it with?" The answer on July 23 near Kagali, Rwanda will be, soccer balls! A team will go there from the US and even now some have arrived for preliminary work.

Jonathan says that the Rwandan government welcomes the new Kamp. He indicated that things are progressing inside the country with the purchase of the land. KAAC will prayerfully break ground on the facility in August of this year. Jonathan says that the greatest need is for prayer partners that can lift up the fund raising and the many details that need to be done before that can happen.

You'll notice in the photo of the KAAC property in Rwanda that it is in a beautiful lake setting. If you look close you can see the partially cleared and shaped area in the middle of the peninsula. That was done by a previous owner and will be the start of the main area of the camp.

There are many more details but I just haven't had time to fact check them. Do you want to hear more about this project?

I bet I could get Jonathan or someone from Kids Across America to guest post about it. Anyone out there closer to the project want to give my readers an update?

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Scattered

It's Monday.

Over the weekend Joe White and his army of Men at the Cross(MATC) helpers put on the first MATC event in St. Louis, Missouri. I had family duties that kept me from this event but I hear it went well and that between 5 & 6 thousand men attended. Each of those men was given two One2Won Cross Training Devotional books so they can find another man to disciple and go through the book. Potential impact of that one event 10,000 - 12,000 men getting into God's word.

Jessica our Senior Graphic designer has moved to Pennsylvania and is sorely missed here in the office. They are just getting through the long moving process. She will be setting up a new business out there and guess who is going to be her best client? That's right, Kanakuk Kamps. You don't find and train someone like Jessica, so we'll be counting on her in the days to come to continue making all the great things that you see in your mailbox and beyond. Lindsay is the other graphic designer here and is extremely talented, often doing the heavy lifting for us. You might remember her performance in last year's big Kanakuk brochure and you sure want to be looking out for her magic on the new website due out in Sept. Speaking of scattered...Lindsay, poor Lindsay...she is out this morning on a boat taking pictures at K-2. I'm sure she's enjoying the lake and the opportunity to work on her Chaco tan!

Mollye our Marketing Specialist is taking a week's vacation with her family. I think the beach is involved.

Jeff our Marketing Manager is cranking away here on making the machine run and spending time thinking 3-5 years out as we look at ways to better serve the kids and families that come to Kanakuk. He sent me a spreadsheet over the weekend so I guess we'll have to have the "you work too much" talk again:-)

Adam our summer intern came in with a dramatically different hair cut. My guess is he did something drastic to entertain the kids down at K-1 where he plugs into the programs aspects at night and on the weekends.

I'm just getting back from G'ma and G'pa's house trading some of our kids out. It was good to see the family and the two new cousins. I also had an amazing service experience at Starbucks in Topeka. I'll have to tell you about it later, right now a pot of the black stuff is calling me.

So, we are or have been a bit scattered lately. We'll look forward to getting the gang all back together, even if it is long distance.

If you want to know something about the inner workings of Kanakuk leave a comment here. I'll do my best to answer or find the answer and we'll learn together.

Have a great week.

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"ChockTalk"

At many of the Kanakuk Kamps, Kampers are placed into tribes for competitions. The two boy tribes are Cherokee & Choctaw. The two girl's tribes are Kiowa & Kickapoo. Our first son, went to Kamp and was put in the Cherokee tribe, and then our our second son was a Cherokee and so our third boy when he's old enough to go will be a Cherokee. Then their sons will be Cherokees and on and on. Our daughter Hannah, attended Kamp third term and she is a Kickapoo.

I was riding to lunch with her yesterday on a "Daddy date" and she was telling me all about her time at Kamp. It sure is fun to get a 7 year old's perspective on the Kamp experience. She was telling me about all the funny skit characters at Kamp, about "The Man" who stole the Bumble Bee on the Spy Party day, and then about the first day of tribal competitions. The boy tribe, the Choctaws, were a focus of the stories. And throughout she was calling them the "Chocktalks". I said, "You mean Choctaws?" "No Dad. ChockTALKS!" I stand corrected. But, most importantly I realized that even to a 7 year old, Kamp is about having an experience that begins your independence. Right or not she has taken ownership of that 13 day period of her life. She stood her ground. I like that. Now over the course of the next year her brothers and I will say "Choctaw" and by next summer she will be too.

She might not fully understand God right now either, she has prayed the sinner's prayer and I have seen an increase in sensitivity to spiritual things, but it's still a little fuzzy. That's how we all are. When we believe in Christ, there is a radical, complete, and eternal change of our hearts but the day to day, Christian life is a transformational process . Us understanding God and God transforming us. We'll do the best we can to help things into focus, to back-up the Holy Spirit's work in her life. If you are around Hannah can you show her what you know about Jesus?


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Lake Shore Drive Bridge Repair Update

Well, we've had one closing ceremonies with the bridge out and I hope it wasn't to inconvenient for K-1 parents to take the "scenic" route. If that was you, you'll appreciate that my kids call Timberlake Road "The Bumpies". It is kind of like a roller coaster! The road closure has made things interesting for us as we reschedule mail drops, meetings between employees, and of course trips to town for lunch, etc. Many employees leave for work earlier now and have gotten creative with carpooling. For the Kampers everything is clipping right along.

Here is a picture of the bridge area as of Monday late afternoon.


Wet weather yesterday has slowed the final excavation. But plans to install precast concrete culverts promises to shorten the time to completion. The latest rumor is that the road will be back open by July 18th. That sounds pretty fast from where we are!

Will you let me know who you are so I can get a better idea who I'm writing to? Take the poll on the right for the next 9 days. Thanks.

I'll also add that Tim Oliphant (see post from Monday) has had quite the week with media interviews and phone calls and e-mails from long lost friends after his incredible performance on the American Gladiators show.



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Who are you talking to? - 2

I know I promised an answer and a confession. If you can't wait, skip down a couple of paragraphs, avoid the bloviating rant and save yourself the 2 minutes. [Debbie - I see you scrolling:-)]

So, I'm tired of advertising. Companies everywhere, pay attention. I want to talk to somebody with a personality, a story, someone who has the occasional bad day, and is willing to admit it. It's OK, I know your employees have a life. Don't get all crazy on me though. I don't want to know about their doctor appointments or what their horoscope promises for the weekend. I'm actually allergic to "To Much Information", I carry an emergency supply of Benadryl because if people take me seriously it's going to get worse before it gets better.

Here's the secret: I've already checked you out! I'm Googling you. I'm finding your other customers and talking to them first to see if you are legit. Seeing if it's safe to talk to you. One of my friends told me you were pretty awesome. So when I call I just want to know that somebody real is on the other end of the phone. Somebody I can now put my trust in that you'll actually care about me. If I want to talk to someone in India reading a script I'll call my guy in Bollywood direct!

OK, enough, the answer to "Who are you talking to?" Well, if you are in marketing today, if you advertise your business you aren't talking TO anyone. You are talking AT them! Which brings me to the confession: I've been talking AT you for years, through media where you really expected me to talk TO you. A give and take, back and forth. I apologize. You call, you send e-mails, you come to visit and still I wanted to talk AT you with my websites and brochures. I'm setting that aside. I'm changing. Or am I?

I'll suspend the drama now.

Who am I talking to? I want to talk to you because; we are both Kanakuk parents (my daughter is at Kamp right now for what seems like the longest time), we both work for Kanakuk (making things better is so rewarding), we share an interest in Kanakuk (we have some of the same memories). What is it going to take to get us talking? Forums/Discussion boards, Kamp Friends lists, Facebook Connect, retreats, do you want Kanakuk to come to your town? Do you want to come here? Do you want us to text message you? Do you want me to come to your office or do you want me to call? Is e-mail your speed? Leave me a comment. JGM I'm coming to your office so get ready.


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Jason Arellano - New employee announcement

INTERNAL KANAKUK MEMO

DATE: July 8, 2008

TO: Kanakuk Kamps

FROM: Human Resources Department

SUBJECT: New Employee

Please welcome Jason Arellano to the sales and purchasing department. I asked Jason to tell me a little about himself and I don’t think I can improve on his own words. Please note that Heath will be with us for a few more weeks, but we all need to contact Jason as if Heath were not here. This will help him adjust to his new duties.

I will be replacing Heath as he moves on to teach and coach. My wife and I married in April of 2006 and are expecting our first child - Lindsey is 5 months pregnant. I served 5 years in the Marine Corps and have traveled the world. I took part in two tours of combat and closed this chapter of my life after being shot and hit with a grenade. Lindsey and I now reside in Springfield, MO with my mother-in-law and father-in-law while we are waiting for our home to sell in K.C., MO. We are praying for the family that will eventually call our home theirs. My wife was a camper and counselor here at Kanakuk for several years and I have always wanted to be a part of the ministries. Kanakuk is a great organization with solid values centered on Christ and I am honored to do my part in changing the lives of future generations.

I love my family and anything that has to do with the outdoors. I have faced death in the eyes and it has given me a greater appreciation for life. I thank the Lord for each and every day as I have been given many 2nd chances. I look forward to meeting and working with everyone on staff.

Semper Fidelis
Jason Arellano

LIFE, LIBERTY and the
PURSUIT of ANYONE
WHO THREATENS IT.



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Who are you talking to?

Books I've read recently, am reading or am going to read soon.

Purple Cow: Transform Your Business by Being Remarkable
Meatball Sundae: Is Your Marketing out of Sync?
Join the Conversation: How to Engage Marketing-Weary Consumers with the Power of Community, Dialogue, and Partnership
Marketing to the Social Web: How Digital Customer Communities Build Your Business
Identity Crisis: 50 Redesigns That Transformed Stale Identities into Successful Brands

Maybe it's because I've been involved in marketing in some way most of my working career, but I'm exhausted by advertising. I can barely tolerate the drone of infomercials, and the ad books they call magazines. I have become extremely skilled in avoiding, ignoring, or otherwise obliterating all TV ads (thanks to my DVR!). The new in show product placement strategies being foisted upon us is my next target.

So, why do I stay in "marketing"? It's one word, "Kanakuk". I get to tell the story and share the history and richness of 82 years of some of the best Christian camping in the world. There's something to believe in, something that if I communicate it clearly to you, your family will benefit eternally. Bam! That's it and for me it's powerful. I have to love what I'm doing and feel like I'm making a difference or I start getting the new job itch.

I was at my last job for less than three years. It felt like 30 years. It was highly educational but elicited no passion. I've been at Kanakuk now for over 8 years and it feels like I just got here! Part of it is sharing the task with some of the most talented people in the business.

Back to my book list...

If I'm tired of the advertising, I know you must be too! I'm trying to get my head and heart wrapped around communicating in a way that will break through even my hardened senses. So, you see that represented in my book list. I think I have it figured out, but help me with this one because me "figuring it out" has nothing to do with the solution.

If you are in marketing let me ask you this: Who are you talking to?

Tomorrow we tackle the answer and I make a confession.



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Live blog on Tim Oliphant American Gladiator

REFRESH OFTEN!!! minute by minute updates.

It's 6:47 on Monday night and I'm at the Tim Oliphant American Gladiator watch party! Tim's friends and co-workers are here eating, catching up and watching the last few minutes of Wheel of Fortune in anticipation of the big event. Tim is stirring some queso.

Tim just screamed the 10 minute announcement.

Tim quote: "After the months of waiting its about stinking time. It's been a busy day."

----
6:54 - Tim just screamed the 6 minute announcement.

6:59 - It's at a fever pitch now. Tim is dressed in his American Gladiator T-shirt and playing host.

7:01 - Tim quote. "I've gotta prove that I'm the man and that I can take it!"

7:05 - Tim is eyes locked on the TV screen.

7:07 - The room went absolutely nuts as Tim talked about his parents and as his famous quote came on.

Here is a picture of Tim with his "littlest fan"

7:09 - The room went crazy as Tim jumped up and down after beating Titan on Pyramid. After the celebration Tim promises to show a video Journal of that day of competition after the show is over. "If you want to see it" he says. Someone in the room says "if Tim is in it we want to see it!"


7:17 - Take the poll on the right.

7:18 - 7 seconds was not enough. The room goes quite as Tim takes a swim off the climbing wall and then erupts when Tim declares on screen that "the pressures off now I'm ready to go"

7:20 - Tim shared Rocket's trash talk just before the climbing wall: "You got your route? I got mine." "You're pretty light weight. I've gained 15 pounds since last season."

7:26 - Snapback. Tim on the show, "I'm gonna step my game up..." The crowd here goes crazy enjoying the Tim quotes.

7:30 - Tim says that ...[edited]

7:41 - Tim says that Sideswipe was the most fun event and that we should get that event at Kanakuk. He also said that the platforms have some wobble to them.

7:49 - Tim's living room is full of friends.
7:51 - The part of the show where Tim is kneeling down praying was ...[edited] Tim's response, "I'll pray where ever you want me to!" ...[edited]

7:56 - Everyone in the room is on their feet, arms pumping, screaming, laughing as Tim finishes the Eliminator in 1:24, a course record!

8:00 - As the show ends the room joins in a "standing O" for Tim.

AFTER THE SHOW

Tim says the next episode he's on is in two weeks on the 21st.

Tim's getting ready to show his video Journal after the first day of shooting.

Tim shows off his Gladiator "tats"; wounds from the first round.

Tim says that he doesn't know what happened on the Pyramid but he just went for it and made it to the top.

Tim says he keeps in almost daily contact with all the other contenders.

Typical day of shooting: start at 9:00am with van ride to studio...[edited]

[edited]

Tim said it was hard to sleep because of the adrenaline and the thinking about having to do the events.

He said there was lots of talking between contenders, playing games and stuff while waiting on the set.

When Tim went for training they took him to a Hollywood doctor and gave him a thorough physical.

Tim has two uniforms a red one and a blue one. He traded for the blue one.

Tim says there is a new event in the semifinals. He said they put the slowest guy against the fastest guy in the semifinals.

Tim says that the fun thing about Titan is that he and Tim have a rivalry, he says ...[edited]

8:37 - Joe White shows up at Tim's house during the encore showing of the episode.


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Connectersationalism

Today I'm laying claim to the word "connectersationalism" and all it's derivatives. Such as, "connectersation", "connectersationalist", "connectersations". These were born out of a brainstorming session with Jeremy, Jessica, JGM, and I several days ago as we discussed the new kanakuk.com. We are hoping that on the new site that many connectersations will occur and that somehow we can be a part of it.

The meanings of these new words are very deep, I can't even fully articulate them in my mind yet. I more feel them then see them. The feelings tug at those places in my mind and my heart where fellowship with other believers tugs. Even the sound of the word conjures up images of really embracing another human being in meaningful dialog.

It's like when you talk with your wife and you really grab eyes, ears pointed forward and time seems to flex inexplicably. [I need to have more connectersations with my wife.]

Does this new word resonate with anyone? Are you a connectersationalist and didn't know it? Is it possible that we just haven't had the right words to describe it?

Do you want more connectersation in your life? [I don't even know what that means exactly!]

We are going to get to the bottom of this...


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Kanakuk's American Gladiator

It's finally arrived! Monday night at 7:00 on NBC, Kanakuk's own Media Director, Tim Oliphant, will be a competitor on American Gladiator.

I'm just going to say one thing...oh wait I'm not going to say that because it would break the non-disclosure agreement. You'll just have to watch and then come back here and give Tim a shout-out. See his post episode videos online at www.kanakuk.com/tim

I do have one question for Tim. Is Wolf as scary in person as he is on TV? I think it's the fangs.


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Former Marine Sets Up Base Kamp

Heath, one of the Kanakuk warehouse employees is leaving this summer to pursue his passion for coaching basketball. Replacing him is Jason Arellano, former U.S. Marine Sergeant, 3rd Battalion, 5th Marines, Kilo Company, 2nd Platoon. Jason did two tours in Iraq and was wounded in the Battle of Fallujah, December 12th, 2004.



His wife Lindsey is a former Kamper at Kanakuk Kamps. Their engagement overlapped Jason's time in Iraq and here you can read part of their touching story.



Jason will share his testimony on Friday at the I Love America event in Springfield, Missouri. On Wednesday a film crew came to Kanakuk and interviewed Jason for potential inclusion in a documentary film.





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Tim Oliphant - American Gladiator Contender

Tim Oliphant is the Media Director here at Kanakuk. He is a contender on American Gladiator this season and his first episode is airing this Monday at 7:00 pm on NBC. I was asked by the Texas A&M newspaper The Battalion to talk about what it's like working with Tim Oliphant. Here is what I said.

I have the great privilege of having Tim Oliphant on my Team in the Marketing Department at Kanakuk Kamps. Tim is a truly creative person. I would describe him as deeply loyal, extremely positive, and a natural story teller. He sees the best in people and wants to share their stories with others. I can especially speak to his skills as a videographer and video editor. His background as a Kamp counselor and his great way with people give him a special ability to interview people and make them feel comfortable. In his video work he uses his strength of communication to take viewers into stories and engage them with more than flashy graphics and creative transitions; he weaves stories together that you both see and feel.

On top of all that he’s just a great guy to be around. We are big fans of Tim and support him 100% in his run to be the American Gladiator champion. The taping of the show and all the things that go with that have taken a lot of time, but Tim just works harder to get his job done. American Gladiator won’t change Tim, it will make him even more focused, stronger, and able to lead those he works with.

For his closest coworkers the best thing about Tim’s American Gladiator experience has to be the one-liners. We are having so much fun razzing him about it and he enjoys it too. I know Tim’s hope in being on the show was that he would have a great experience, win, talk about Kanakuk, but mostly share the joy of living a life with Jesus Christ as his Savior and Lord.

If you want more Tim Oliphant news including his video thoughts on each episode go to the website: www.kanakuk.com/tim.

You can also check back here at my blog.

I'll add one thing to all that: Tim of course is supposed to keep the results of the tapings of the show secret. Despite the constant peppering of tricky questions from us he has done so well and I think he must say "You'll have to watch and see." in his sleep. Way to go Tim!





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Christian Radio

We have a great little independant Christian radio station here in Branson called Life FM (KLFC). Started by people from a local church it has grown and thrived here. We haven't done much "Advertising" including radio spots but wanted this year to support this station and in turn they are providing some 15 second spots.

Bear with me. I'm going to test out some radio script ideas on you. Let me know which one you like the best:

1. Kanakuk Kamps one of the Tri-lake's largest employers provides an "Exciting Adventure in Christian Athletics" for thousands of boys and girls ages 7-18 each summer. 7 , 13 and 25-day terms provide Kampers with a taste of Kanakuk or a full blown life-changing summer experience. Great facilities, great food and the most kid-loving, Christian, college staff make a summer at Kanakuk something kids never forget. Visit kanakuk dot com to take in the whole Kanakuk experience.


2. [bed of camp themed music comes up] "Exciting Adventure in Christian Athletics" just begins to describe the life-changing experience at Kanakuk Kamps. From ziplines [zipline sound] to football drills [whistle and football hits sounds], guitar lessons [Acoustic guitar riff], to crazy skits [funny music with laughter] Kanakuk will take your heart, mind, and body to the next level. Make your summer count by coming to Kanakuk for 7, 13, or 25 days of memories and adventure! To enroll or learn more visit kanakuk dot com.

If you were hearing about Kanakuk for the very first time on radio what message would peak your interest?

Thanks for commenting on my blog. I hope you find this to be a place you can see under the hood so to speak and feel more apart of what we do here. It's a great place to work, I'm blessed, hope your day is full of blessings.

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Lake Shore Drive Bridge Update

Bridge work is already underway. Original estimates of 8 weeks or more may be giving way to just 3 weeks as plans to put culverts in the opening, over filling with gravel and paving take shape.

Here is the bridge area as it appeared yesterday afternoon late. Notice the telephone poles placed to support the sewer line that ran inline with the old bridge.


I know that several businesses opened their doors for Kanakuk on Saturday when the bridge washed out, so that we could get signs made and plumbing supplies, etc. If you are a Kanakuk employee and know the names of those businesses and people can you please leave comments or e-mail me the names so that I can acknowledge their service to us?

More updates on the bridge to come in the days ahead.

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Best thing about Google

Check out Google Alerts. If you search for anything regularly or just want to be the first to know when my blog gets updated (shameless promotion) then you'll thank me for the tip.

1. Click on the Google Alert link above.
2. Enter the search term you are interested in. I like fresh "Kanakuk" stuff everyday.
3. Specify how and how often you want an e-mail sent to you of that search.
4. Enter the e-mail address you want it sent to.
5. Use your gmail account to manage the alerts. Don't forget to associate all your e-mail addresses with your gmail account.

See what happens. Let me know how you use Google Alerts.



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