Pine Cove Parent Information, Posted Oct. 7

Crossroads Bible Church Middle School Student Ministry
Pine Cove Fall Retreat, 2008. Parent Information Sheet

I. What to pack:
Sleeping bag, pillow, toiletries, towel, flashlight, note pad/pen/Bible, appropriate clothes for the weather (please check on conditions for the weekend), a set of dark clothes for commando, clothes that can get messy, shoes & socks, shower shoes.

More importantly, what NOT to pack: shaving cream, CO2 guns, balloon launchers, sling shots, etc. Also, as a reminder, no throwing toilet paper (wet or dry), no tampering with fire extinguishers or hoses, climbing on roofs, destroying cabins or bathrooms, writing on cabins or property, water fights, skipping sessions or disobeying dining hall instructions!

A note about handheld video games, Mp3 players & mobile phones: Use of these at ANY time is HIGHLY discouraged for a number of reasons. Largely, they distract from almost every purpose of the weekend. Also, they can be easily stolen, damaged or lost. We will enforce the rule that these may not be used unless the students are in their bunks while at camp. We will discourage usage on the bus except to communicate with parents.

II. Spending money:
There is a camp store where students can purchase sodas and snacks. Souvenirs are also readily available as well (hats, t-shirts, etc.). No spending money is needed as meals and some snacks are included. Many bring enough for a t-shirt and snacks before leaving on Sunday, generally in the neighborhood of $20-25. Also, horseback riding and zip lines have extra fees associated with participation, usually along the lines of $5 as long as space permits.

III. Emergency Number:
For emergency use only, Pine Cove: 903-561-0231 or 1-800-225-9069. For any other calls you may contact your child directly on their mobile phones. Also, Brent McKinney can be reached at 972-322-3675.

IV. Special Medicines & Dietary Restrictions:
We’ve found it increasingly difficult to insure that your child medicines/instructions will be followed. Hence, it is our expectation that you will communicate with your child regarding the administration of their prescribed medications. We cannot be responsible for this.
If your child has special dietary requirements (i.e., lactose intolerance or gluten-free, etc.), please contact Pine Cove directly at the “800” number above and make them aware. Keep in mind that they’ve been in operation for over 40 years and have encountered nearly all of them. Usually, a phone call will suffice. If your child will be needing this service, please remind Brent at check-in so he can be aware.