Camp Kidd Park was full of 4-H Spirit July 5-9 when 79 local youths filled the grounds for the annual Tucker Co. 4-H Camp. The week, themed Under the Big Top: Greatest Camp on Earth! kicked off with an assembly by Fred Davis, on bullying and making good decisions. Other assemblies included Magic by Kevin a local Magician from Philippi, a visit from the petting zoo and pony rides, and square dancing.
Rorry Day and Dora Day received a full return scholarship in memory of Cpt. Arnett Kidd, first Extension Agent in Tucker County for being named Outstanding first year campers. Other first year campers receiving a Lucky Penny award included Chole Cummings, Alicia Barb, Abby Wilfong, Ariona Plumley, Hunter L., Treye Wagnor, Blaike Adams, Amara Snider, Melissa Johnston, Addie Hicks, Katie Hicks, Zada Carr, Holly Myers, Katelyn Myers, Dora Day, Rorry Day, Haley Tuttle, Trinity Beaver, Hannah Veal, Brylee Wetzel, Adrian Nestor, Mikala Beter and Wyatt Betler.
Third year patches were awarded to Darrah Pennington, Cameron Mullenax, Autumn Knotts, Noah Moore, Camille Smith, Karlee Smith, Shayla Mason.
Campers attending their fifth county camp included Ethan Carr, Brett Strawderman, and Wesley Strawderman. Campers attending their seventh year at camp included Will White and Jack Melnick. Campers attending their ninth year at camp included Melanie Adams, Katelyn Bates and Mikayla Long. Campers atteneind their eleventh year at camp included Madison Mullenax and Joanna Dyer.
Cameron Mullenax was chosen as the Spirit of Camp. The Spirit is a 4-Her who best displays the high level quality character and positive, helpful attitude that contributes towards the success of camp.
Mullenax receives a full return scholarship in memory of past 4-H Extension Agent and long-time 4-H volunteer Dottie Jones.
For demonstration of mature, level headed behavior and decision making, Logan Pennington was awarded the Head H. For his gracious and encouraging spirit, Will White was named Heart H. Preston Wolfe was appointed the Hands H for being incredibly helpful throughout the week while Jack Melnick was presented the Health H for promoting a healthy lifestyle to other campers.
Two half return scholarships were awarded to Blaike Adams and Haley Tuttle for good grooming.
Leadership patches were given to Melanie Adams, Sarah Bates, Mikayla Wilson and Kaylee Nedrow for being helpful to younger campers and contributing to the success of camp as a whole.
4-H Camp would not be possible without the numerous adults that volunteer their time. Instructors and resident staff included Becky White, Beki Bonner, Karen long, Dee Stevens, Cindy Harsh, Nick Nedrow, Lisa Smith, Taylor Shade, Paul Pennington, Melinda Pennington Nick Wolfe, Ashlea Wolfe, Amanda Mullenax, Dakota Streets, Jackie Cale, Jerry Cale, Patty Worles, Heather Clower, Debbie Stevens, Mary Jane Smith, Patricia Thompson, Lisa Radford, Benny Kisamore, Chris Bates, Angela Myers, Leana Johnson, Kim Mullenax, Eric Mullenax, Jennifer Poling and Matthew Hottle, Extension Camping Instructors Jesse Lackey and Josh McCartney, Extension Agent in training Jesica Streets, and Program Assistant Wendy Wolford.
