Things are looking good for the upcoming season. At this point in time, enrollment is tracking ahead of the past two years. We had an amazing season last summer with a great group of staff, engaged campers and unbelievable weather. With a slight rebound in consumer confidence, we should be in really good shape in 2011. However, it remains critical that we all spread the good word about this amazing place. Strong enrollment equals a strong camp.

One of the byproducts of a recession is the challenge for younger guys to find summer jobs. As a result, we benefit. For the third year in a row, over 90% of our staff will be made up of folks who have been with us before. The staff this year is particularly strong with most having been campers here in the past.

Louis, Goose and I have been in regular contact throughout the off season as we prepare for the summer. We are all looking forward to the excitement and energy. It’s hard to believe that our first seasonal staff arrivals will be here May 1. Soon, we will be able to get back outside finishing up projects from last fall (arena soccer, tennis backboard, power line relocation, painting courts and more) and getting camp ready. All are welcome to join us for Service Weekend on May 7.

The alumni reunions in March were a great success as we begin building momentum for our 100th anniversary celebration in 2013. As a result, we are going to do them again next March. I often think that younger guys think that reunions are for older generations. Not so. These reunions are for everyone. There is nothing more common and powerful than the memories we all share of our time at WLC.

I look forward to seeing everyone in the coming months, whether at Service Weekend, during camp, for Braves Weekend, Family Camp or future camp gatherings.

- Nat Crane