Another camper added, "It really makes you think how lucky you are to be called by God and have a chance to learn about Him." Northwest Camp, which was conducted from July 29 to Aug. 5 at a camp facility about an hour east of Portland, Oregon, encouraged its 120 campers from 16 states and three Canadian provinces to learn more about God, to make friends and to enjoy a variety of activities. "The campers had such positive attitudes and were a joy to be with, and I wish to thank the 60 staff members for their many hours of service and for their dedication. It was a trouble-free camp where all campers and staff were treated with respect and kindness," said the camp director, Steve Nutzman. Camp was held at a different facility than in past years. Since there were no lakes close to the camp, campers were bused to off-site locations for waterskiing, kayaking and hiking. Three ski boats and 16 kayaks were used at these activities. Other activities included dance class, two camp dances, swimming, high challenge course and zip line, ultimate Frisbee, volleyball, basketball, crafts, archery and a new class this year, golf. Among the more popular classes were the morning Christian class and the Excellence in Living classes. The theme of all Christian living classes was "Dive Into God's Word." One camper remarked, "I know more about the Bible, and I want to read it more." The Excellence in Living class, taught by Denny and LeeAnn Luker, helped the campers learn about the four personality types, described as the lion, otter, golden retriever and beaver. Femininity and masculinity classes rounded out the Christian living classes. There was also a question-and-answer session, plus a Sabbath slideshow on Africa, followed by Sabbath services. Two campers summed up their camp experiences this way: "It makes me want to go home and bring the Zone with me" and "Lessons I've been taught at camp will stick with me throughout my life." Northwest Camp enjoys a very experienced and dedicated staff to serve the campers. One camper reflected this by adding: "The staff listens to any question or problem that you may be having. They also work very hard to give us a good learning experience, not to mention they take a week off work for us. Staff made us feel safe." The campfires after dinner were another highlight of camp. Dorms greet the camp with their creative dorm cheers and original camp songs. The challenge portion is a big hit with campers and staff, in which a dorm or an individual can "challenge" others to a game of volleyball or other activity involving skill. Two open activity evenings added to the enjoyment of camp. The campers and staff were truly blessed this year because they experienced an environment full of God's way of life in action, which included cooperation, respect, unity and spiritual growth. This light was shining to those outside the Church. The host camp director told us that in her 22 years of directing and hosting camps she had never seen a better organized camp than ours. She added, "I wish we could have you train other camp groups how to run a camp." Next year the camp location will move back to the popular Camp Davidson facility in the Cascade Mountains of Oregon. The camp dates are July 6 to 13, 2008. We hope to see you there!