Merrie-Woode Preserves Key Piece of Property on Old Bald The Merrie-Woode Foundation Board of Trustees is pleased to share the exciting news of a very important property acquisition, Lot #17, a pinnacle lot in the Bald Rock development. This lot sits at the top of Old Bald and just to the left of the overlook that Merrie-Woode campers have enjoyed for more than a century. Nearly 25 years ago, Merrie-Woode started a major fundraising effort to purchase adjacent properties in an attempt to protect Camp from encroaching development. While so much at Merrie-Woode looks and feels the same as it has for multiple generations, Camp was concerned about the changes taking place just outside our gates and on top of Old Bald. Potential development of adjacent properties posed the greatest threat to Merrie-Woode. This particular property was held by the original owner, until recently when the heirs decided that they were going to put the lot on the market. Before doing so, they contacted Merrie-Woode to see if we would be interested.
Merrie-Woode’s newly-acquired lot, outlined in blue, is adjacent to the Maidenhair Conservation Easement, as well as the Old Bald overlook, shown in the green circle.
At first, the price was far too high for Merrie-Woode to consider, but the heirs all had summer camp backgrounds and seemed to have a strong desire that Merrie-Woode own it. As time went by, Camp
Securing ownership of this critical property will forever protect Merrie-Woode’s iconic view of Old Bald.
was able to negotiate with the heirs, who agreed to a significantly reduced purchase price. Thanks in part to our newly-formed Endowment and the Board’s willingness to rearrange some of the capital projects that were planned, the purchase of this property was possible. We very much appreciate the owners being so flexible, patient, and generous in the property negotiations. This 6 acre lot borders Merrie-Woode property on the two visible sides. The green oval shows where the overlook is and the light blue rectangle shows where the newly acquired property is in relation to the overlook. This is a strategic piece of property for Camp. With time, Merrie-Woode will explore establishing a new conservation easement or adding it to the existing 35 acre Maidenhair Easement already in place. The protected property will allow added access to Old Bald and Panthertown from the top, security for camp, and potential overnight use by the campers during the summer. In addition to these many possibilities for the uses, we are delighted that the Bald Rock view shed will forever be natural and preserved.
Inside... At Wit’s End Staff News Alumnae News Dammie’s Day 2019 Annual Fund Alumnae Paddling Clinic
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Camp Merrie-Woode, Spring 2020
At Wit’s End Chug-a-Wump! Boo-Whoop! As we sit down to write this in mid-March, we hope you and your family are doing well in this unprecedented time in our country and across the world. As we prepare for another incredible summer along Lake Fairfield, we are continuing to monitor a variety of resources and gathering all of the best information as it pertains to the Coronavirus. Our plan currently is to continue to keep our parents and staff informed of summer camp strategies, recognizing that we are in an evolving situation. In partnership with the American Camping Association (ACA) and other overnight camps from across North Carolina, we are closely monitoring information about COVID-19. The safety and health of our campers and staff remains our highest priority. Our Merrie-Woode campers, staff, and their families are experiencing a tumultuous spring, along with so many of us. Staying home from school, sports, activities, and friends has been a difficult sacrifice for children and young
Denice Dunn and Stephanie Blessey Lilley celebrate Mardi Gras with The Queen of Carnival Sarah Lane.
adults to understand. We feel that children will need Camp more than ever this summer, if it is possible! On a more positive note, the camp enrollment is at capacity, and a high percentage of the counselors are returning staff members from last year. Betsy Reese Helms and our intern, Katie Dixon, have spent numerous hours on the road this winter visiting college campuses and encouraging many of
offseason filled with travel. We were able to catch up with our son Tyler and his wife Kelsey in the USVI. It’s always good to spend time with them – especially when they live on a boat. We also enjoyed seeing many of our Camp families at the Mardi Gras festivities in New Orleans. I think many people were surprised to see that we do wear more than green polos and khaki shorts from time to time. After New Orleans we were in Louisville and then Washington D.C. for a wonderful Camper and Alumnae Gathering at the home of Justin and Stephanie Blessey Lilley. You can read more
Jim, Denice, and Robin enjoyed a tour of the National Portrait Gallery from Dorothy Moss Williams.
our staff to return for the 102nd summer. While back at the office, Annette remains busy processing the camper forms, camper pledges, and all of those cute camper photos. Our facilities crew has been busy this winter. They have had their hands full working on the improvements to the back line cabins, from Bee Hive to Dogwood. Much of their energy has been spent on the improved cabin floors, new roofing jobs, gutter systems, and new clothes lines. The crew certainly had a lot on their agenda, and fortunately the weather has cooperated. They look forward to starting on the stormwater and Wildside improvements mapped out with Reed Hilderbrand. Jim and I had an exciting 2
Denice and Jim get dressed up for Mardi Gras!
about this later in the newsletter. For now, we will stay at Camp and wait for this wave of uncertainty to change. As always, we remain committed to maintaining a clean, healthy, and safe environment for our campers and staff. We will continue to communicate in the time leading up to the camp season with our camp families. We ask for prayers and support as we do our best to plan for a healthy and safe summer. Be safe and stay well.
Denice and Jim
Camp Merrie-Woode, Spring 2020
Staff News Thank you to all of our staff members who keep us in the loop on their school, travel, and life adventures! Nancy Almquist emailed to say that she has had a busy year welcoming two new grandbabies while also visiting Dr. Katherine Almquist Ryker’s classes at University of South Carolina. Nice Nurse Nancy is looking forward to another summer here at Merrie-Woode! Betsy Blitch is enjoying her sophomore year at Duke, where she is majoring in neuroscience. Betsy recently launched a website called, “Smart Girls Gotta Eat.” She explains the website’s purpose by saying that, “since so much of today’s social media heavy world focuses on body image, there isn’t enough focus on the actual nutrition behind food.” Betsy is using the website to explore
Ella Freeman and Julia Nelson in 2019
the relationship between neuroscience and nutrition while also providing empowerment for women and girls. We recently enjoyed a visit with Shannon Duncanson, who stopped by the Merrie-Woode office. She is enjoying law school at Florida State University, and she shared that she will be working this summer in Washington, DC. She is excited to catch up with many Merrie-Woode girls who live there! Courtney Foster is in her final semester at
University of South Carolina and recently spent her last spring break in Cashiers. Courtney will be back at camp this summer to choreograph the Main Session musical and teach some rock climbing before hopefully moving to the Cashiers area this fall! Merrie-Woode Senior Staff members Betsy Helms and Lindsay Hostetler spent a few days attending the Southeastern Theatre Conference in Louisville, KY at the end of February recruiting summer staff members. While in Louisville, Betsy and Lindsay had dinner with Lea Gilbert, Kelli Cooper, Christian Ricci, and Ashlee Collins. Lea, Kelli, and Christian are all graduating from college this semester but will be back at Merrie-Woode this summer before starting full-time jobs. Ashlee Collins is loving life in Lexington, KY where she is still working part-time for Lexington Children’s Theatre and full-time as a Discovery Educator at the Living Arts and Science Center. Speaking of traveling, Lindsay and Gary Hostetler spent a few days in New York this spring and caught up with Alex Ervin, Corinne Foster, and Caroline Robinson while they were there. Della Huffines graduates from Wofford in May and then plans to move abroad in the fall. She will either be working in Germany or
Maggie Hill and Madeleine Andrews smiling for the camera last summer
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Lucy Gash and Langley Barnes enjoying the 4th of July festivities last summer
teaching English in Russia. Either way, it sounds like Della is in for an exciting adventure, and we wish her the very best! Rather than returning to Merrie-Woode, Maggie McCarthy is spending her summer in Cape Town, South Africa with a study abroad program through Washington & Lee University, while her younger sister, Kate McCarthy, will be at camp for the summer working on the Mountaineering Staff! This semester Aubrey O’Connell transferred from Mississippi State University to University of Central Florida and is living with Olivia and Claudia Behringer-Smith. Aubrey reports that she loves her new school, and we are excited to have all three housemates back at camp this summer. Baker Sanders plans to take a gap year next year before starting her college education. She will be joining the Global Citizen Year program to live in either Ecuador or Senegal with a family for a year. The program allows Global Citizen Year Fellows to work, “in local efforts advancing education, health, and sustainability. By staying longer and going deeper,
Camp Merrie-Woode, Spring 2020
Staff News cont. Fellows develop insights that shape their character, guide their higher education, and ultimately prepare them to work toward shared solutions that advance the greater good.” We are so proud of you, Baker, for taking on this amazing challenge! We recently heard that Mary Stephen Straske plans to spend her summer interning in a museum in New York. After another busy year working as a mental
health professional in the Asheville area, Tara Tecce can’t wait to serve as the Program Director for the visual arts and sports this summer. We are so glad you are headed our way, Tara! As always, there is exciting college news to share. Gabby Harwell is headed to Auburn next semester, and Emily Johnson will be at Sewanee: The University of the South. Parker King is look-
ing forward to being a freshman at UNC-Chapel Hill in the fall, and Karina Ottaviano is excited to start school at Eckhard College. Conery Schmidt will be a first year at UVA, and Helen Wisdom will be a freshman at Bates College. Congratulations to all of our graduating seniors on their exciting college plans!
CMW Alumnae News Our Merrie-Woode family has been busy this year, and we are pleased to report lots of exciting news that alumnae have sent our way. Mary Park McEachran Dunn (01-11) and her husband, Hanes, are relocating from Washington, DC to New Orleans! At the Washington, DC Alumnae Gathering, we also caught up with Shelby Lopez (0411), who is working for The Atlantic producing The Atlantic Festival, an annual multi-day event showcasing the biggest names in politics, business, tech, and culture that takes place in September each year. Also at the DC Gathering, we visited with Joanie Coker (01-10), who is developing an expertise in the field of environmental sustainability and energy with the non-profit CLASP. Congratulations to Elissa McCarty Oliver (95-03), Culinary Arts Instructor at Riverwood International Charter School, who has been designated Georgia Prostart Educator of the Year 2020 by the Hospitality Education Foundation of Georgia. This honor is the highest award in the culinary teaching industry. The Educator of Excellence Awards recognize educators
Vivian Bowker, Lucile Williams, and Amelia Holderness visiting at a farmer’s market in Washington, DC
who demonstrate excellence in the classroom and passion, commitment, and creativity in all aspects of the ProStart program. ProStart is a career and technical education program that unites the food service industry and the classroom to teach high school students culinary skills and restaurant management principles, as well as employability skills such as communication, teamwork, professionalism, and time manage4
ment. Elissa, aka “Chef Oliver,” will represent the state of Georgia at an award ceremony to be held on May 10, 2020, in Washington, DC. Congratulations Elissa on the amazing work that you do! Broadway actor and Merrie-Woode alumna, Liv Rooth (90-00), appeared in her role as Ms. Stephanie in a special production of Aaron Sorkin’s To Kill A Mockingbird recently performed at Madison Square Garden. Eighteen thousand New York City public school students had the once-in-alifetime opportunity to see the free performance with the full Broadway cast on February 26, 2020. This remarkable staging marked the first time that a Broadway play has been performed in Madison Square Garden. Frances Symes (95-99) has moved to Washington, DC, where she continues to work as a manager for Deloitte Consulting. Jack and Ellie Lee Tate (10-12) moved to Brevard, NC about a month ago! Jack is now working for the North Carolina Appraisal Company in Cashiers, and Ellie shared that he passes Camp on his way to work every day. Emma Waugh (03-13), Irene Vieth (02-10), and Preston
Camp Merrie-Woode, Spring 2020
Cory (03-13) are all living together in Washington, DC! Emma shared that they frequently reflect on how lucky they are that CMW brought them together many years ago. Dorothy Moss Williams (83-90) reports that she enjoyed seeing a group of current campers gathered at the D.C.
Farmer’s Market, Vivian Bowker, Lucile Williams, and Amelia Holderness. She also had the pleasure of seeing Barrie Caison Benson (81-85), who was on a panel at the Washington Winter Antiques Show talking about her incredible design business in Charlotte. Thank
you for sharing your news, and we look forward to seeing all that our alumnae accomplish in 2020.
CMW Weddings and Engagements Engagement season is in full-swing with many Merrie-Woode alumnae planning weddings in 2020 and 2021. Charlotte Barnett (0110) is engaged! Ella Bright (00-10) and Chris Baldwin got engaged on February 13th in New Orleans right before Mardi Gras! Chris surprised Ella by saying they were going to dinner for his mom’s birthday, and both of their families were actually there to celebrate their engagement! Chris is also from New Orleans, and they are planning a wedding for the fall of 2020. Catherine Christian (08-15) is engaged to Patrick Elmer. They are planning a wedding in May of 2021. Sarah Ellison (04-16) and Kailey Sitzberger (15) became engaged in October 2019! They are planning a November 2020 wedding in Roanoke, VA. Congratulations to
Ella Bright (00-10) and fiancé Chris Baldwin.
Ciele Gutierrez (04-11) and fiancé Tyler Knox
the happy couple! Ciele Gutierrez (04-11) and Tyler Knox just got engaged on March 14, 2020! Tyler proposed at sunrise at a national wildlife preserve near Tallahassee, FL. They had seen many sunsets at this spot but this was their first sunrise. Ciele says Tyler knew that she loved sunrises from all the stories she had told about waking up as a counselor when it was still pitch dark outside to hike Old Bald and watch the sunrise with some of the other counselors. While others were celebrating Pi Day, Ciele thinks of it as “My Day”! Ciele and Tyler are planning a wedding in 2021. Emily Hardy (01-12) is engaged to Hayes Saer. They are planning a wedding in Richmond, VA in fall 2020. Laurel Helms (8896) is engaged to Mike McClure. They are planning a wedding in Austin, TX. Shelby Lopez (04-11) and Ben Kamisar became engaged in November 2019 while visiting a winery in Virginia. They met in
Bolling Winborne (01-17) and fiancé Murray Keogh.
college at Northwestern University and have been together for seven years! After a Tampa, FL wedding in March 2021, they will continue to reside in Washington, DC. Genna McKeel (91-00) is engaged. Bolling Winborne (01-17) and Murray Keogh became engaged on November 23, 2019. They moved to Australia in January, where Murray is pursuing a masters’ degree, but they plan to return to the US for their Camp wedding in October 2021. All our best wishes to the happy couples!
Shelby Lopez (04-11) and fiancé Ben Kamisar.
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Camp Merrie-Woode, Spring 2020
CMW Baby News Newman and Julia Edwards Ainsley (96-07) welcomed their baby girl, Mary Wells, on January 5, 2020 weighing 7 lbs, 11 oz. Mary Wells is already getting to know her future camp buddy Townsend Simpson, Carter Coker Simpson’s daughter, in DC. Christopher and Anna Almquist Branam (99-07) received a special Christmas present this year,
Tinsley Augusta Brown, daughter of Kate Manos Brown (03-15).
“Mary Wells” Knight Ainsley, with proud parents Newman and Julia Edwards Ainsley (96-07).
James Branam, son of Anna Almquist Branam (99-07).
when baby James Henry Branam arrived on December 26, 2019. He weighed 7 lbs, 14 oz and measured 20.5 inches. Grandmother Nancy Dameron Almquist (70- present) has loved spending time with baby James this year! Nellie Black Brewer (94-00) and her husband, Eli, are expecting their first child in May 2020. Grandparents Rip and Nell Mathis Black (66-95) can’t wait to meet their grandson! Tyler and Kate Manos Brown (03-15) welcomed their first child, daughter Tinsley Augusta Brown, on January 15, 2020. Named after Merrie-Woode greats,
Ansley Mae Harris, daughter of Watson Woodward Harris (99-10).
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grandmother, Tinsley Orr Nothern, and great-grandmother, Augusta Orr, baby Tinsley weighed 8 lbs, 15 oz, and measured 21 inches. Dougie and Grace Thorington Coffed (98-19) are expecting a baby in May 2020! Maddy Boyle Gross (04-19) and her husband are expecting their first child, a daughter, in July 2020! Austin and Watson Woodward Harris (99-10) welcomed their first child, daughter Ansley Mae Harris, on September 25, 2019. Ansley weighed 7 lbs, 4 oz, and measured 20 inches. They are soaking up every little moment and love watching her reach new milestones. We cannot wait to
Caleb Stephen Jessup, son of Amanda Werner Jessup (98-07).
William MacAllen “Mac” Jones, son of Cameron Wyche Jones (91-98).
Camp Merrie-Woode, Spring 2020
Owen Coley Lange, son of Calvert Coley Lange (96-04).
see this little one wearing green and grey! Stephen and Amanda Werner Jessup (98-07) welcomed their first child, Caleb Stephen Jessup, on December 2, 2019. Caleb weighed in at 8 lbs, 11 oz. They’re enjoying their new life as a family of three! Jack and Cameron Wyche Jones
Patrick Flynn Rhodes, son of Elizabeth Mann Rhodes (83-84). Louisa Corral Light, daughter of Kate Carey Light (97-05).
(91-98) welcomed their third child, William MacAllen “Mac” Jones, on March 4, 2020. He weighed 9 lbs, 10 oz, and his entire family is already mad about him! Alex and Calvert Coley Lange (96-04) welcomed their first child, Owen Coley Lange, on August 4, 2019. Calvert reports that he already enjoys hiking and is always hungry, especially when he wears his awesome CMW bib! Patrick and Claire Massagee Lanier (98-03) welcomed their first child,
Thomas “Brooks” Lanier, on November 8, 2019! Thomas and Kate Carey Light (97-05) welcomed their daughter, Louisa Corral Light, on October 22, 2019. Louisa weighed 5 lbs, 14 oz, and her parents are overjoyed about her arrival. Future Merrie-Woode girl Morgan Grayson Moskowitz, daughter of Adam and Jessica Werner Moskowitz (94-03), was born on February 28, 2020, weighing 7 lbs, 14 oz, and measuring 21.25 inches long. Big sisters, Feeny and Samantha, are very excited, and so is big brother Michael. Congratulations
Thomas “Brooks” Lanier, son of Claire Massagee Lanier (98-03).
Morgan Grayson Moskowitz, daughter of Jessica Werner Moskowitz (94-03)
Brooks Sloan Ratliff, son of Laura Wyllie Ratliff (95-05).
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Arthur Anderson Schmidt, son of Sara Huffman Schmidt (95-12).
Camp Merrie-Woode, Spring 2020
CMW Baby News cont.
Anne Townsend Simpson, daughter of Carter Coker Simpson (93-08).
to Mark and Laura Wyllie Ratliff (95-05) who welcomed their first child, Brooks Sloan Ratliff, on October 29, 2019. Grandparents Stuart and Carole Graham Wyllie (62-70) report that he is absolutely
perfect! Chris and Elizabeth Mann Rhodes (83-84) welcomed a son, Patrick Flynn Rhodes, on July 30, 2019. Andrew and Sara Huffman Schmidt (95-12) were overjoyed at the arrival of their first child, Arthur Schmidt, on February 22, 2020! Weighing 7lbs, 8oz, and measuring 20.5 inches, Arthur’s parents adore him already. Alex and Carter Coker Simpson (93-08) welcomed their second daughter, Anne Townsend Simpson, on October 24, 2019. Big sister Rosalie is excited and already planning their future summers together at Merrie-Woode. Ashley Sullivan (92-02) and husband Tie Mudge are expecting their second child this spring! Clayton and Mary Peterkin Worthington (94-06) were overjoyed to meet their second daughter, Margaret Scott “Scottie” Worthington, on February 25, 2020. Scottie weighed 7 lbs, 8 oz, and she is named for Clayton’s grandmother
Margaret Scott “Scottie” Worthington, daughter of Mary Peterkin Worthington (94-06).
and Mary’s Uncle. Sallie is thrilled to be a big sister. Congratulations to all on these many new members of the Merrie-Woode family!
In Memoriam Elizabeth Upton Cobb (1943-2019) One of our beloved 1950s alumnae, Elizabeth “Bette” Upton Cobb (55-56), who hailed from Winston-Salem, NC, passed away on November 30, 2019. After studying at the American School of Switzerland, Bette graduated from Hollins College with a degree in Classical Studies. Possessing an insatiable curiosity, Bette was a life-long student with an incredible memory. She married the love of her life, Donnell Borden Cobb, Jr. of Eastern North Carolina, who always helped her keep the humor present, and together they raised two daugh-
ters in Raleigh, NC. With a talent for event planning and floral design, she founded a business, Designed Events, with a good friend, and together they planned occasions for the Special Olympics, the Progress Energy Building, Christmases in The Governor’s Mansion, schools, charities and numerous weddings throughout the state and as far away as California. Bette adored living in North Carolina. She loved her “kickline,” her classmates, her cousins, her camp buddies from Merrie-Woode, and all the many devoted friends she kept all of her life. Bette is survived by her husband, Don8
nell Borden Cobb, Jr., her daughter, Nancy Cobb Harvin of Raleigh, and three grandchildren. She is survived also by her brother, Luther J. Upton III and his wife, Ellen, of Portsmouth, Virginia, and by an extended family of special nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her mother, Merrie-Woode alumna Dot Thomas Cobb (3031), and her daughter, alumna Susan Cobb Brumley (81-82). Martha Cousar Davis (1959-2019) A remarkable Merrie-Woode alumna, known for her positivity and optimism, Martha Cousar
Camp Merrie-Woode, Spring 2020
Davis (70- 73) passed away in her hometown of Jacksonville, FL on December 5, 2019. A natural athlete with an accomplished career as a high school All-American swimmer at The Bolles School, Martha continued her education at Princeton University, where she graduated in 1981 with a degree in Biology. Martha explored marine research and teaching, before eventually deciding to pursue an advanced degree in Counseling Psychology at the University of Florida. A dedicated community volunteer, Martha worked with the Downtown Ecumenical Services Council (DESC), the Junior League, Sanctuary on 8th Street, and Riverside Presbyterian Church. Martha’s most memorable qualities were the enthusiasm and magnificent smile with which she greeted every day, person, and dog she met. Her kind spirit touched so many lives, and the example that she set will continue to inspire everyone who knew her and those around her. Martha is survived by her mother, her beloved husband Gardner, her three children, including Merrie-Woode alumnae Molly Davis Foukal (98-09) and Elizabeth Davis (04-17), and her cher-
ished granddaughter, Davis Foukal. Martha is also survived by many devoted family members, including her sister and brothers, sisters-inlaw, and many nieces and nephews. Charles Jackson Hall (1998-2020) The Merrie-Woode family mourns the loss of staff member, Jackson Hall (16), who passed away following a courageous battle with cancer over the past three years. Jackson grew up in Cashiers and Highlands, NC, where he became a dear friend to the Dunn family and spent many hours as a child exploring Camp with Bradley and Tyler Dunn. He attended Summit Charter School, graduated from Highlands High School in 2016, and went on to attend Appalachian State University, where he was majoring in Journalism, prior to his diagnosis in 2017. Jackson excelled in athletics and played on the basketball, cross country, and tennis teams at Highlands High School. He became a beloved member of the Merrie-Woode Facilities Crew while working at Camp during the summer of 2016. Jackson was a remarkable young man, whose gratitude, joy, love, and
New CMW Web Video Series Has Launched! Our new 11-part video series launched this spring! Filmed during the summer of 2019, these videos feature CMW programming, philosophy, and summer staff. You can find these short video episodes on the Camp Merrie-Woode YouTube channel, the CMW Facebook and Instagram pages, and throughout the CMW website. You’ll be amazed at the wonderful footage and interviews capturing everything that makes Merrie-Woode so special! 9
spirit of positivity made an indelible mark on all those who were fortunate to know him. He is survived by his parents, Jane and Chuck Hall, his brother, Harrison Hall (07-11), and his sister-in-law, Brittney Hall. Condolences Betty Kemp (1923-2019) The Merrie-Woode community offers its most sincere condolences to the family of Betty Schneider Kemp, wife of Bill Kemp, who served as Chairman of the Merrie-Woode Foundation Board of Trustees from 1983 - 1988. Mrs. Kemp passed away at age 96 on December 23, 2019. She was preceded in death by her husband, William Powell Kemp, Jr., and she is survived by three children, alumna Elizabeth “Betsy” Kemp Neese (60-66) of Goldsboro, NC; William Powell Kemp, III, of New Bern, NC, and alumna Sallie Louise Kemp (67-75) of Canterbury, CT. She is also survived by four grandchildren, including alumna Elizabeth Neese Woodard (8491), and four great-grandchildren.
Camp Merrie-Woode, Spring 2020
Celebrate “Dammie’s Day” on May 16! May 16 is Dammie Day’s birthday! Camp Merrie-Woode’s founder and longest serving director was born May 16, 1883. To celebrate Dammie and the legacy she has left every Merrie-Woode girl, we are launching a new celebration this year. On May 16, find a way to honor Camp Merrie-Woode and Dammie Day in some unique way. Then take a pic, post it on social media, tag CMW, and use the hashtag: #dammiesday. Let’s start a chain reaction across the social media feeds of CMW girls around the world of positivity and embrace all that Merrie-Woode has given us through the years – love for the outdoors, the arts, adventure, and our camp community. Dammie also called all of us to serve the greater world around us. To her last days, she consistently spoke on behalf of children across the globe. If there is a way you can give back to your local community or the global community in these trying times, do it this spring in honor of Dammie. Whatever action you take, big or small, is one that would make Dammie proud. Here are some ideas to get you started: •
Take a hike through a local park
•
FaceTime with a camp friend
•
Wear your Merrie-Woode tie
•
Send some snail mail to a camp friend
•
Read a poem from the Centennial
Ripple aloud
•
Read a chapter of the Centennial Book
•
Make a s’more or your favorite camp treat
•
Play a camp song on your guitar, ukulele, or
any instrument
•
Tell a Tajar Tale
•
Read a story about King Arthur
•
Go boating
•
Make a donation to a cause that serves
children in need
•
Volunteer at a local organization
Get creative! We can’t wait to see how everyone will celebrate Dammie’s Day!
#dammiesday #merriewoode #followingthegleam 10
Camp Merrie-Woode, Spring 2020
In Need of NANO iPODs This Summer! The CMW Unplugged Initiative is in Need of NANO iPODs This Summer! As you may or may not know, the NANO iPods are getting harder to find, and we rely on these for our cabins and activity areas. Please send any gently used NANO iPods you may be ready to donate to Camp and share the gift of music with our campers and staff.
Camp Merrie-Woode Attn: Denice 100 Merrie-Woode Road Sapphire, NC 28774
Merrie-Woode Welcomes Local Groups to Camp You may not know that after the campers go home for the summer, Merrie-Woode stays quite active through the off-season! This past fall, before the Tajar settled down for his long winter nap, we had the privilege of welcoming a number of local groups for outdoor adventure activities, retreats, and education sessions at Camp. Believe it or not, the first
group to arrive at Camp after the close of the August Session was all male! Approximately 50 father and son pairs, all from military families, enjoyed a weekend retreat led by John Brantley. John and his wife, Patty, are former Associate Directors of Merrie-Woode from the 1980s. John continues to be a regular Chapel speaker and orientation instructor at Merrie-Woode. His sons,
Local 5th and 6th grades from Blue Ridge School enjoy lunch in Lily Pad.
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Drew and Chase Brantley, have been on the Merrie-Woode staff as counselors. Their company, BAM Adventures (short for “Becoming A Man”), facilitates this gathering each fall to foster improved communication between fathers and sons, giving them tools and strategies to build a community of strong healthy men. The attendees participated in a number of activities, such as boating on Lake Fairfield, scaling the climbing wall in King Arthur’s Court, and competing in an Amazing Race, designed to let sons build their confidence as leaders, while fathers learn how to mentor and serve as role models. Along with the Brantley family, some of our Merrie-Woode counselors were staff leaders for this retreat, including Tara Tecce and Sarah T. Davis. Not long after the BAM retreat, a group of college students from North Greenville University’s Outdoor Leadership Program arrived at Camp for a four day skill-building program. They practiced their leave-no-trace skills
Camp Merrie-Woode, Spring 2020
Merrie-Woode Welcomes Local Groups to Camp cont. while camping on the waterfall field, honed their climbing techniques on Old Bald, paddled kayaks on Lake Fairfield, and conducted orienteering exercises throughout Camp. Several North Greenville students and alumnae have been members of the Merrie-Woode summer staff, and our Outdoor Adventure Coordinator, Kelli Talley, is a graduate of the program! In late September 2019, we were pleased to host students from Western Carolina University’s Parks and Recreation Management Program for an overnight as part of their Outdoor Adventure Activities course. Students in the PRM program learn skills to prepare for careers in outdoor leadership, city and county recreation, military recreation, resorts, tourist attractions, camps, leisure services, or the land agencies. The group enjoyed a tour of Camp, a Q&A with Merrie-Woode staff, two activity sessions for kayaking and rock climbing, and a cookout at Lily Pad. Merrie-Woode has been fortunate to hire many counselors
Big Brothers Big Sisters members during a Llama Walk at Merrie-Woode.
from WCU in past summers. Blue Ridge School held its second annual Harry Potter-style sorting ceremony and team challenge day at Merrie-Woode on September 25, 2019. All students in 5th and 6th grades began their day by being “sorted” into one of four houses which then competed against each other in four activity challenges. Each house’s team earned points by completing challenges in boating, climbing, archery, and drama games. With a cookout lunch in Lily Pad and a celebration of the teams in Castle at the day’s end,
this event proved to be a memorable way for Blue Ridge students to build camaraderie for their houses at the beginning of the school year. Being part of a house allows the students to encourage each other, make friends in different groups, and learn to practice good teamwork. On October 11, 2019, Merrie-Woode hosted the Cashiers Historical Society’s Annual Preservation Awards Dinner in Castle for the second year in a row. This year the Cashiers Glenville Volunteer Fire Department’s new museum
Centennial Ripple This special edition of the Lake Fairfield Ripple showcases the best of one hundred years of Merrie-Woode’s treasured literary magazine. Including poetry, prose, songs, and artwork, the Centennial Ripple is a charming and nostalgic glance through camp life over the past century. Price: $15.00 All proceeds go to the CMW Endowment. Order online: merriewoode.com/activities/publications/
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Camp Merrie-Woode, Spring 2020
was honored with the Jane Nardy Archival Award (Merrie-Woode received this award in 2018 for its Centennial Archives). Local retailer, Guiliana Kaufman, also received an award for best reuse of an historic building for her shop, Narcissus. Board members and friends of the Cashiers Historical Society also celebrated the release of their book, Faces and Places of Cashiers Valley, a collection of photographs and essays about local residents. Other groups that come to Merrie-Woode throughout the year include local students from Summit Charter School. This year the high school students received climbing instruction at King Arthur’s Court
and on Old Bald, while the second graders enjoyed a day of outdoor fun at Camp. Southwestern Community College’s climbing program holds one day instructional sessions on Old Bald for their students. Like-
Summit Charter School’s second grade class is excited to spend a day at Merrie-Woode.
wise, the Boys & Girls Club of the Plateau brings its members to Camp for different types of events, such as team building sessions on the Low Ropes Course or outdoor adventure experiences like paddling on Lake Fairfield. Finally, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Cashiers recently entertained its members with a llama walk around Merrie-Woode. With this busy off-season schedule, the Tajar does not get much of a break! Nevertheless, we are grateful that Merrie-Woode is not only a beloved second home for its campers, but for many members of the local community who also benefit from its natural beauty and exceptional facilities.
2019 Annual Fund The Glory of Self-Sacrifice and the Willingness to Give All! Once again we have outstanding news to report regarding our 2019 Annual Fund Campaign. With the tremendous success we have seen in our Annual Fund over the last few years, we set a 2019 goal of $150,000. Last year, 891 participants contributed a total of $221,900.14 to the Merrie-Woode Annual Fund, and we surpassed our goal! Merrie-Woode alumnae, parents, and friends continue to support our annual giving effort with extraordinary generosity. During this year’s Annual Fund Campaign, we focused on the renewal of friendships during the Centennial Celebration and the bonds that have formed among the women who have attended Merrie-Woode throughout its 100 summers. Martha Simkins Davis (68-83) authored this year’s letter on behalf of the Staff and Junior Coun-
selors of 1979 and 1980. In addition to our traditional campaign, we hosted our sixth annual “Young Alumnae Challenge” on social media. This year we challenged our young CMW alumnae to raise the equivalent of three full tuition Camperships (one for each session in 2020). In just three days, the Young Alumnae raced past the goal with an amazing total of $18,375 raised, allowing for
King Arthur with his Pages at the June Session Follow the Gleam.
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three Camperships plus additional funds to support partial Camperships this summer! As a nonprofit organization, Merrie-Woode relies on the Annual Fund to support the operations of camp, including the programming, staffing, and facilities. The Annual Fund also provides resources for camperships, the tuition scholarships that provide financial assistance to many camp families and to young women who would not otherwise have the opportunity to attend summer camp. All gifts received through the Young Alumnae Challenge are specifically designated for camperships. All contributions to the Merrie-Woode Foundation are tax deductible for individuals, corporations, and foundations within the limits of section 501(c)3 of the IRS code.
Camp Merrie-Woode, Spring 2020
Merrie-Woode Goes to Washington, DC
The Lilleys’ front porch looks festive for the Merrie-Woode gathering.
Merrie-Woode girls of all ages River, our DC alumnae shared their gathered in the nation’s capital for a most memorable Camp stories while reunion with Camp friends on making new connections with other Thursday evening, March 5, 2020, at local Merrie-Woode families. Every the home of CMW alumna, parent, detail of the party harkened back and Trustee, Stephanie Blessey to summer days in North Carolina, Lilley (76-83). Stephanie and her including a delicious buffet of mac husband, Justin, are parents of CMW ‘n cheese bites, vegetable crudités, daughters Madeleine and Mary miniature barbecue sandwiches, Morgan Lilley. Nearly 75 alumnae, and other tasty delicacies. The meal campers, and concluded their families with everyturned out one’s favorto visit with ite campfire Denice and dessert Jim Dunn - s’mores. and hear the Denice and latest news Jim Dunn from Merwere thrilled rie-Woode. to see so From the many Merporch overrie-Woode looking the friends Denice and Jim Dunn with Ben Wallerstein, camper Potomac and share Ella Wallerstein, and brother Jack Wallerstein.
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JoJo Verner, Betsy Hamilton Verner (76-90), Dorothy Verner, Dorothy Moss Williams (8390), and Lucile Williams at the Merrie-Woode gathering in Washington, DC
some news about recent activities at Camp. Jim told the group about the purchase of the new lot on top of Old Bald, as well as the work that the Board has been doing to implement some stormwater and landscaping improvements as part of the Ten Year Master Site Plan. Denice encouraged everyone to view the new Camp videos that have recently been released and are available on the Merrie-Woode website. All of the guests, whether they attended Camp in the 1960s or the 2000s, enjoyed the opportunity to renew their connection to Camp and strengthen the common bond they share through their Merrie-Woode experience.
Camp Merrie-Woode, Spring 2020
2nd Annual CMW Alumnae Paddling Clinic We are excited once again to offer a three-day paddling clinic for CMW alumnae. If you have beginner or intermediate level paddling skills and some flat water/white water experience, then this weekend is for you. Join us for the CMW Alumnae Paddling Clinic this fall! All proceeds go to the CMW Programming Endowment. Friday, September 11 – Sunday, September 13, 2020 Schedule: On Friday afternoon, we will gather at Camp to fit equipment and review basic skills on the lake. Accommodations will be the hill cabins at Camp. We will head out Saturday morning for a warm up run on the Tuck Gorge. An evening session on Saturday night will allow us to reflect on our experience. On Sunday morning, we will run the much-loved Nantahala, returning to Camp for a late afternoon departure.
2020 Board of Trustees Clair Freeman Marshall, Chair Raleigh, NC Holly Pierce Ambler Boone, NC Alan Clark Charlotte, NC Mathilde Villere Currence New Orleans, LA Jane Curtis Houston, TX Mallory Dimmitt St. Petersburg, FL
2019 Alumnae Paddling Clinic participants on the Tuck Gorge.
$500 per Alumna, Tuition includes all meals, cabin lodging, instruction, transportation to and from the river, and equipment (kayak, paddle, helmet, life jacket, paddling jacket). This event is designed for Merrie-Woode alumnae 21 years and older. Alumnae must have their own transportation to/from Camp. If family members are traveling with you, they must find off-site accommodations. Alumnae must commit to the full weekend. Due to the short time frame, late arrivals and early departures cannot be accommodated. Sign up early! Space is limited to 12 alumnae. Reserve your spot today on the CMW website!
Julie Harrower Diaz Dallas, TX Tweed Cline Eckhard Tampa, FL Jerald (J.R.) Hanks Atlanta, GA Mary Leland Davenport Hutchison Lookout Mountain, TN Creecy Chandler Johnson Raleigh, NC
www.merriewoode.com/camp-programs/off-season-programming/
Elly Lane New Orleans, LA
Questions? Email Robin at robin@merriewoode.com
Stephanie Blessey Lilley Washington, DC
Looking for our 2019 Annual Fund Donor Recognition? We have moved it to Green & Grey Gratitude – The Merrie-Woode Foundation, Inc. Annual Report. All donors to the 2019 Annual Fund and Endowment are now listed in Green & Grey Gratitude, which can be found on the Merrie-Woode website after May 1st at http://www.merriewoode. com/alumnae/merrie-woode-foundation/. All donors who made gifts to the Endowment or the Annual Fund in 2019 will receive a printed copy of Green & Grey Gratitude by mail. If you were not a donor in 2019 but would like to receive a hard copy of Green & Grey Gratitude, please contact Robin Walker at robin@merriewoode.com. 15
James (Jay) McKnight Nashville, TN George Pillow Killen, AL Carter Coker Simpson Washington, DC Daniel (Dan) Wilbanks Knoxville, TN
Camp Merrie-WoodeÂŽ 100 Merrie-Woode Rd. Sapphire, NC 28774 828.743.3300
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Holiday Gift Ideas from the Order YourStock Centennial CMW Shop Book! CMW Centennial Books are now $75! Green Tumbler: $20.00 the Gleam Camp Merrie-Woode: 100 Years of Following Drawstring $25.00 This beautifully designed, award Bag: winning, hardcover book documents the historyCentennial and legacyRipple: of Camp Merrie-Woode and $15.00 her founders. The coffee table sized book is over 250 pages with Kitchen Tea Towel: $10.00 stunning new photographs and significant archival imagery. This Playing Cards: $6.50 is sure to be a keepsake that grandmothers, mothers, daughters, Dammie’swill Prayer $20.00 and granddaughters sharePoster: for generations.
Price: $75.00 All proceeds go to the CMW Endowment. Additional Stock Shop items are available.
Order online: merriewoode.com/activities/publications/ Email annette@merriewoode.com to order.
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