July 2006

Pointing to the Future :
Luther Point has grown over the past 60 years from an idea to a place where many people have formed and strengthened their faith. In an effort to continue that growth, a few town meetings were recently held and people talked about some of the additional programming ideas they would like to see. In order to make these ideas a reality and to ensure better camper safety, the Luther Point Board of Directors recognizes that some facility enhancements are necessary.

Therefore the Board has taken the first step toward drafting a new master plan for additional site development. At the July 2006 Board Meeting the camp Board of Directors voted unanimously to enter into an agreement with Craig Selander, Architect, LLC from Grantsburg, Wisconsin. The architectural firm will assist the camp in developing an overall site plan and do some preliminary schematic design work for a new storm shelter/multi-purpose building and renovating the Chapel.

There will be some initial hoops to jump through, especially regarding zoning issues and investigating the feasibility of having a new structure built on the current camp site. Once some of those initial questions are answered and zoning gives us sufficient approval, we will be seeking the approval of the Camp Association to move ahead with a major capital appeal fund drive. The camp will also need to seek the consent of the Northwest Synod of Wisconsin, Synod Council. Synod Constitutional Bylaws state in Chapter 15: S15.21 that, “no appeal to congregations of this or any other synod of the ELCA-for the raising of funds shall be conducted by congregations or organizations related to or affiliated with this synod without the consent of the synod assembly or the synod council.” The Northwest Synod of Wisconsin is currently in the midst of a major capital appeal with a goal of $500,000 plus. This appeal will be concluding at the June 2007 Synod Assembly but pledges for this appeal are expected to run through 2008. More than likely, any approval from the Synod Council for a major capital appeal will not come until after the June 2007 Synod Assembly.

Some of the proposals on the drawing board for the master plan include some of the following ideas:

1. Construct a new storm shelter/multi-purpose building. Camper safety is of utmost importance to the camp and in order to assure parents and campers we see this building as a strong necessity. The primary purpose of the building would be to serve as a storm shelter, however the building would have a variety of other uses as well. The thinking at this point involves a storm shelter at basement level with a first floor area serving as multi-purpose space. We would like to have some sleeping space that would serve as youth retreat space in the off-season and support staff housing during the summer months. The first level would also house the camp medic station, and we have a need to expand our laundry facilities. The storm shelter would serve as a large group meeting space for retreats as well as providing significant area for storage.

2. Renovate the Dahlberg Memorial Chapel. We are looking at the possibility of converting the chapel to a year-round facility. In order for this to happen we would need to replace all the windows; fir out the walls; insulate and install siding; and install a heating system and possibly a central air conditioning system. There is a strong possibility we may need to install a restroom and upgrade most of the electrical systems.

3. Convert the Ouch House and Koinonia Cabins into shower houses. Once the storm shelter / multi-purpose building is built we could move ahead with this conversion. Showers for campers and staff have always been minimal and there is a need to increase the capacity. The location of the Ouch House and the Koinonia cabins are ideal for conversion to shower and bathroom facilities.

4. Discontinue about 950 feet of Luther Point Road as a township road. The primary focus of this action would be camper safety. If we are allowed to discontinue this part of the road it would be converted to a private drive. After which we can control the traffic flow in and out of the main camp site. Part of the process involves an application process with the local township board. One step includes a public hearing to see if there is any opposition or support from the residents of Wood River Township. If permission is granted we would be responsible for constructing a turnaround at the new end of Luther Point Road. This involves an 80-90 foot circular space with blacktop paving.

5. Remodel the camp office. The office is 30 years old and needs improvement with energy efficiency. All the windows need to be replaced and we are looking at some office layout design. We would also like to see the building re-sided.

6. Build an addition onto the Program Coordinator’s house. A modest increase in size to improve kitchen, living and bedroom space.

7. Construct a Picnic / Activity Pavilion. This would be a large, open-air, roofed structure that would give the camp greater flexibility with rainy day activities and it would serve as a great space for retreat / congregational gatherings, the Quilt Auction, and outdoor worship space.

8. Provide for pedestrian access under County Road M. With an eye toward further facility and program development we would like to look seriously at the 45 acres of woods and field east of County Road M. In order to insure safe passage to this part of the camp property we would like to see a walking culvert installed under County Road M.

This is a very comprehensive plan with several projects on the drawing board. The Board of Directors and camp staff have been discussing these ideas for several months. As we look to future program / facilities development we are excited about the potential for these new improvements to the camp.

The camp staff and Board of Directors are anxious to share our findings with you in the coming months and we hope to have an initial master plan available for the annual meeting scheduled for Sat., Nov. 4, 2006.

4th ANNUAL GOLF SCRAMBLE
Another fabulous day for our 4th Annual Golf Scramble!! We could not have asked for a nicer day with sunny skies and fair temperatures. 75 golfers took to the course on Monday June 5th to help sponsor campers coming to camp this summer. All funds raised from this year’s event were designated for the Campership Fund.

The Golf Scramble was held at the Siren National Golf Club, (now under new ownership) located about seven miles from Luther Point, near Siren, Wisconsin. This year the camp received 16 hole sponsorships who provided a gift of $100 each. Hole sponsors were given recognition with a sponsorship sign on one of the tee boxes. A complete list of all hole sponsors is listed at the bottom of this article. We also had one major sponsor with a $500 gift from Bernick’s Pepsi of Dresser, Wisconsin.

Our top three finishing teams this year include the following: We had a repeat first place (pictured above) that went to Larry Rose, Larry Armit, Gary Barrows and Jerry Carlson with a 12 under par. Second place (pictured to the left) went to the team consisting of Bob Ritter, Danny Lentsch, John Martin and Todd Whitehead with a score of 10 under par. The third place team (pictured below) with a score of 9 under par was sponsored by Investment Center of America and was made up of Gary Gahler, Tom Gahler, John Eberhart and Vicki Foss.

A special thanks to Lee’s Pro Shop from Pine City, Minnesota who provided all the trophies and special game prizes for the scramble tournament. Several door prizes were also provided for the event from a variety of area businesses. We thank all those businesses and individuals who participated in making this year’s event possible. Several families and children will benefit from this event as they receive camperships to make it possible for them to come to camp.

We provided a nice buffet supper at the club house after the event. In years past, we have served the supper at the camp. We were pleased to have the supper at the club house because it made it possible for more of the participants to stick around and be a part of the awards and prize give-a-way. Approximately $4,400 was raised after expenses and will go directly toward helping children to have a Bible Camp experience this summer.

Luther Point Bible Camp would like to thank the following people and businesses who participated in the 4th Annual Luther Point 4-Person Golf Scramble:

Thanks to our major sponsor: Bernick's Pepsi

Special thanks to the staff at Siren Glen and the Luther Point Staff

Thanks to these fine Hole Sponsors:
Bass Lake Lumber, Grantsburg, WI
Blues Creek Farm, Beef and Lamb, Glenwood City, WI
Bremer Bank, Frederic, Frederic, WI
Burnett Dairy Cooperative, Grantsburg, WI
Burnett Plumbing Company, Grantsburg, WI
Community Bank of Grantsburg, Grantsburg, WI
Craig E. Selander, Architect, Grantsburg, WI
Fiedler Ford, Inc., Grantsburg, WI
George W. Benson, Attorney, Siren, WI
Gionis Law Office, St Croix Falls, WI
Jeff's Small Engine, Milltown, WI
Johnson and Son's Drug Store, Amery, WI
K-Wood Truss, Grantsburg, WI
Tangen Drug, Saint Croix Falls, WI
Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, Luck, WI
Wood River Pharmacy, Grantsburg, WI

Thanks to these fine prize sponsors:
Adventures Sporting Café & Pub, Siren, WI
Bachman's Photography, Lindstrom, MN
Church Mutual Insurance Co, Merrill, WI
Daeffler's Quality Meats, Inc, Frederic, WI
Dairy Queen, Siren, WI
Darrell’s Hardware Hank, Grantsburg, WI
Espresso Cabin, Grantsburg, WI
Farmers Ind. Telephone Co, Grantsburg, WI
Jensen-Sundquist Insurance, Grantsburg, WI
Johnson Lumber Company, Siren, WI
Marge's Therapeutic Massage, Amery, WI
Northwestern Wisconsin Electric Co, Grantsburg, WI
Owen’s Corning Insulation
Scott's Auto Care, Grantsburg, WI
Siren National, Siren, WI
The Lodge at Crooked Lake, Siren, WI
US Bank, Grantsburg, WI
Village Floral, Grantsburg, WI

O--N--E More Cabin to Renovate
It has been a looonnng drawn out process but we can see light at the end of the tunnel with the Family Cabin Renovation Project. Jerusalem is the final Family Cabin that needs renovation work. We are hopeful to be able to and would like to start work on Jerusalem this fall but are not certain it will be possible. Financial gifts for the Family Cabin Renovation project have dropped off and we need more funds in order to finish up the work.

Projected estimates to complete the work are between $10-15 thousand dollars over what we currently have available. Most of this funding would be used to do the renovation work on Jerusalem but we also need to finish up the landscape work around all the Family Cabins. Landscape work will include lake shore erosion control by both Zion and Jerusalem. It will also include top soil and lawn development around the cabins as well as some drain tile and skirting of Zion and Nazareth cabins.

Now that the Family Cabin Renovation project is nearing its completion we face the new challenge. That challenge is this, “getting individuals and families to come to camp and stay in the Family Cabins.” The Family Cabins are absolutely fantastic. The setting is beautiful and serene. The cost is reasonable if not down right inexpensive compared to staying at a nearby lake resort. People probably don’t realize what else comes with the family cabin stay. During your stay, especially on weekends you have access to the waterfront for swimming, paddleboats, canoes and pontoon boats. You also have access to the camp grounds for basketball, volleyball, field games and much more.

Each cabin is equipped with a kitchenette, full bathroom with shower, comfortable beds, living room space and a beautiful view of the lake. Some of the cabins even have an outdoor deck and all of the cabins have an outdoor fire ring.

We have had a number of new guests stay at camp in the Family Cabins this spring and early summer and here are a few examples of what they had to say about their time with us: “I was very impressed with the cabin and the price, very reasonable. I will definitely be back.” Another couple writes, “The setting and cabins are beautiful, we enjoyed our stay, we’ll be back!” One other family writes, “We love it here, it’s our favorite place to stay!”

As we look ahead to this fall we are hopeful that work will begin on Jerusalem Cabin. If you are inspired to give a financial gift toward this project we ask that you designate your gift to be used for the “Family Cabin Renovation Project” or simply designate your gift for “Jerusalem”.

Thank you to the following individuals, families, churches and church women who have contributed towards this project:

Over $2,000
Anonymous III
Bethany, Siren, WI
Bethlehem, Bay City, WI
Chris & Melody Witzany, Grantsburg, WI
Ezekiel, River Falls, WI
Faith, Grantsburg, WI
Louis & Dorothy Neste, Spooner, WI
Our Savior's, Beldenville, WI
West Immanuel, Osceola, WI

$500 - $1,999
Bone Lake W/ELCA, Luck, WI
Bone Lake, Luck, WI
Dale & Carol Hawkinson, Shafer, MN
Elaine Marian Olson, Amery, WI
Fristad, Centuria, WI
Lois Olson, Roseville, MN
Luck, Luck, WI
Pr. Harlen & Georgia Menk, Ellsworth, WI
Randall & Yvonne Cudd, River Falls, WI
Robert & Waynette Wittenberg, Ellsworth, WI
Timothy & Linda Bont, Fremont, MI

$100 - $499
Albert Arndt, Milltown, WI
Daniel & Cynthia Evenson, Stockholm, WI
Dr. Arne & Miriam Lagus, St. Croix Falls, WI
Elim, Amery, WI
Ervin Golson, St. Paul, MN
Faith, Clayton, WI
First, Cushing, WI
Glenn & Shari Matz, Frederic, WI
Grace, Frederic, WI
John & Phyllis Beastrom, Ellsworth, WI
Melanie Johnson, Ellsworth, WI
Milo & Betty Lou Oppegard, River Falls, WI
Moe, Clayton, WI
North Valley W/ELCA, Centuria, WI
Orval & Edna Mae Johnson, St. Croix Falls, WI
Ostendorf Builders, Hudson, WI
Redeemer, Hudson, WI
Thomas & Pr. Carol Peterson, Bay City, WI

up to $99
Bradley & Julie Samuelson, Pine City, MN
Brian & Rachel Ferguson, Hudson, WI
Cheryl Anderson-Hustad, Osceola, WI
David & Ardyce Harms, Shafer, MN
Evelyn Mueller, Mounds View, MN
Louise & Richard Klawitter, Grantsburg, WI
Ramona Paulson, Osceola, WI
Sandra Webb, River Falls, WI
St Peter's, Luck, WI

CAMPER CABIN REVIVAL CONTINUES
As part of our Camper Cabin Revival we made some significant improvements to all the camper cabins this spring. The primary changes were in the plumbing, sinks, and new countertops in the bathroom portion of the cabins. Our property manager, David Weiss, and a number of volunteers have helped to transform the bathroom portion of all the camper cabins. All the old cast iron water pipes were removed and replaced with new flexible water supply lines and new PVC drain tubing. The new countertops and sinks help to make the bathroom area much more attractive and easier to clean.

Some of the cabins also had new windows installed and two of the girl’s cabins had some additional partitions built to provide for better placement of bunks and privacy. We still have a number of objectives to fulfill. Specifically, we would like to build all new bunks for the cabins and purchase new mattresses. A number of former staff have given a gift toward the purchase of new mattresses. We sent a special letter to most of our former staff for whom we have current contact information. Right now we have about $2,000 in the Mattress Fund. The total anticipated cost for the bunks and mattresses will be around $15,000. A number of cabins will also need new windows and we hope to build or purchase new screen doors as well. Eventually, we are looking at re-siding all the cabins.

Several people have commented on the attractiveness and cleanliness of the bathroom areas. Once again, we want to express our thanks and appreciation to all the folks who came out this spring to assist with the remodeling and cleaning of the camper cabins.

Chapel Roof Needs New Shingles
The camp is in the process of contacting local contractors, looking at bids, and making a decision to have the chapel roof re-shingled. Hail damage from 1998 and excessive heat conditions have all contributed to the deterioration of the chapel shingles. Early estimates are that the shingling work will cost between $10-13 thousand dollars.

The Board has decided to move ahead with the project even though it will involve taking out a loan for a portion of the work. We are hopeful that several individuals or churches will respond to the need for new shingles and make a special contribution / donation toward this much needed work. We hope to have new shingles installed before winter. More than likely the work will take place sometime in September or October.

Volunteers Thank you
Below is a list of many of the volunteers that have helped in 2006. If we have inadvertently left out your name, please let us know. Camp would not be the same without all your hard work.
Albarado, Pam
Anderson, LuVerne
Augustana Lutheran, Cumberland,
Babcock, Kathleen
Babcock, Mark
Baribeau, Amanda
Baribeau, Gary
Bartz, Joan
Bartz, Ruby
Bazey, John
Bazey, Marie
Berg, Donna Lou
Berg, Rebecca
Bigalk, Steve
Bradwell, Nancy
Briggs, Bryan
Brown, Gaylen
Buss, Jon
Cermin, Jonathan
Charpentier, Daniel
Charpentier, Martha
Clarke, Helen
Deiss, Kathy
Dombrock, Anne
Dombrock, Edward
Dombrock, Paul
Dornseif, Rocky
Dowd, Jamie
Dowd, Jason
Elim Lutheran, Scandia,
Elken, Dean
Erickson, Kay
Espeseth, Clarence
Fallstrom, Susan
Ferguson, Dwight
Foley, Rhoda
Foley, Rick
Foss, Vicki
Freeman, Daniel
Freeman, Maureen
Hall, Mark
Hall, Naomi
Hart, Evangeline
Hopkins, Bev
Isaacson, Rev. Margaret
Johnson, Cheryl
Johnson, Heather
Johnson, Jerry
Johnson, Kerry
Johnson, Lola
Jones, Katherine
Kiefer, Roxanne
Kiefer, Steve
Kirt, Susan
Kistner, Joey
Kistner, Mariha
Kistner, Polly
Kurkowski, Jacqueline
Matz, Glenn
McAvoy, Evelyn
McAvoy, Howard
Melstrom, Jamie
Melstrom, Sally
Melstrom, Steve
Moore, Paula
Norstad, Rev. Diane
Oare, Ardelle
Oare, John
Olson, Delight
Pederson, Jan
Peterson, Barbara
Peterson, Darrell
Rassbach, Ella
Schandorff, Betty
Sloper, Mary Ann
Sorenson, Ruth
Stockness, Lauryl
Sventek, Linda
Teigen, Kristi
Toney, Alexandria
Tonnar, Edna
Tonnar, Steve
Veenendall, Diane
Veenendall, Larry
Walker, Nathan
Weiss, Brent
Weiss, David
Weiss, Judy
Zion Lutheran, Woodville,

A POINT TO PONDER
It has been an amazing summer here at Luther Point as campers of all ages have gathered to meet Jesus in this beautiful setting. I want to share with you what campers are saying about their experience meeting Jesus this summer at Luther Point:

“I met Jesus on the river. The wind was blowing and Jesus gave me the strength I needed.” - Travis age 12

“I met Jesus in the songs because I love to sing and praise God’s name all at the same time. I also met him in the kind, loving counselors.” - Rachel age 13

“I met Jesus through my counselor when she told our Bible study group that God loves us no matter what others think.” - Laura age 12

“I met Jesus at campfire when everyone was so close that it made me feel like he was with us.” - Amber age 13

“I met Jesus in the Labyrinth while praying.” - Geoffrey age 11

“I met Jesus at Bible study. It doesn’t matter how short you are. Jesus love you anyway.” - Caitlin age 9

“I met Jesus at the cross because it made me think about why and how he died for us on the cross.” - Laura age 11

“I met Jesus at the clown service. I think that it opened my eyes and I really felt how he had to forgive our sins.” - Maya age 12

“I met Jesus in my counselor because she was kind and praising and understanding and just seemed like Jesus was acting through her.” - Mary age 13

Parents have also taken the time to tell us how camp impacted their children:

“My son is exposed to teenagers who are excited about God, makes new friends, and generally has a great time!”

“I think it is great that our child can go away for a week and come home so fulfilled. She really loves camp!”

“My son asked on the way home; “Can I come back this year!?” He loved it.”

“My child told me, with a smile, that she was so glad she decided to go to camp because she had an incredible faith experience.”

“When my daughter goes to church and confirmation classes she hears the Word of the Lord. At camp, she gets to experience it.”

It is wonderful to hear campers and parents express joy when they reflect on their time at Luther Point. I feel blessed to be part of this faith formation ministry. May campers continue to meet Jesus in this place, through these people, and when they need to sense his presence most.

God Bless, Bethany, Program Coordinator

Weekend Family Camp Was A Success
We just completed our first Weekend Family Camp this summer from July 14-July 17. We had seven families participate. Yes that may sound small but we need to start somewhere.

Our Bible Study for the adults was lead by Rev Arden and Kathy Norum from Alexandria MN. Rev. Norum is the former Executive Director of Luther Crest Bible Camp near Alexandria. The Bible Study theme for the weekend was from the national outdoor ministry study based on Prayer.

Some of the Luther Point summer staff helped with the children and lead worships, campfires and Bible studies and games for the children. The program started on Thursday evening and finished up around noon on Sunday.

Some of the highlights of the weekend included lots of time spent keeping cool in the lake and all the kids got to sink a canoe with several dads taking the plunge. The final worship was made extra special because several of the children got to participate in the final skit of the weekend. They all did a great job and played their parts.

We hope to offer this camp again next summer and we look forward to having even more families participate. Please consider this for your family for the summer of 2006.

The Luther Point Foundation is still in its infancy stage and we are looking forward to growing as more and more people come to realize its mission and purpose.

The mission of the Luther Point Foundation was solidified at the last meeting of its Board of Directors on July 7, 2005. The mission statement that was ratified is as follows:

"The mission of the Luther Point Foundation is to strengthen and expand the Christian ministries of Luther Point Bible Camp now and into the future by providing funding for:
• Facilities enhancement and expansion
• Staff Education and Scholarships
• Program Development
• Other needs as they arise."

As we have said before, we have a tremendous opportunity and responsibility to insure the integrity and stability of this inistry for the next generation and beyond. We invite you to consider a gift to the LPBC Foundation in order that the above mentioned mission can be realized.

Including the Luther Point Foundation in your estate planning is a wonderful way to leave a lasting legacy. Some of the gift options include: Bequests, Gift Annuities, Life Insurance, Real Estate and Charitable Trusts. Thank you for your consideration.

Thank you to the following people who have given to the LPBC Foundation:
*Anonymous I
*Anonymous II
*Appelholm, Robert and Linda
*Bagalke, James and Betsy
*Bartz, Joan and David
*Bartz, Robert
*Berg, Roland and Phyllis
*Berthelsen, Bob and Erna
*Bethlehem W/ELCA, Bay City, WI
*Blahauvietz, Larry and Pr. Diane
*Dahlquist, Ron
*Federation, Mark and Jackie
*Ferguson, Dwight
*Golson, Ervin
*Halaas, Rev David and Lorna
*Hanson, Marvin and Sheila
*Jergenson, Tim and Mary Jean
*Johnson, Ronald and Nancy
*Lingen, Thomas
*Manion, Barbara
*Meyer, Kathy and Richard
*Nelson, Loren and Beulah
*Olson, Elaine M.
*Parmeter, Fred and Carron
*Paulson, David and Edith
*Paulson, Ramona
*Pederson, Karen and Hoyt
*Peterson, Marilyn
*Pierce, Orville and Sally
*Proescholdt, Carl and Katie
*Shand, James and Muriel
*Shirley, Wayne and Patsy
*Simmon, Tom and Nancy
*Wallin, James and Carol
*Warner, Bill and Linda
*Wistrcill, Roger and Barb
*Young, Larry and Kathleen
*Cash Gifts °Planned Gifts +Gift at work