On the night of February 7th, Camp Wyldewood honored those who went out of their way to partner with our organization during 2008.  We again say thank you to them for their work with us.

Jay and Myra Shock with Board Treasurer, Al Fowler

John and Gertrude Dykes Club

Honorees: Jay and Myra Shock

Named after our first director, this award is given to the person or persons who have dedicated their lives in service to Camp Wyldewood. Jay and Myra both worked at Wyldewood during their Harding years and actually met here and later married.  Both of their children, Sara and Jacob, served as staff members when they, too, were in school.  A long time board member, Jay served for over 20 years as board member and has also served as board president before resigning in 2007.

Seth and Jenny Simmons with board member, Al Fowler.

Hugh and Mildred Groover Club

Honorees: Seth and Jenny Simmons

Named for our second director, this award recognizes a former staff member who has continued to give back to Wyldewood after they have officially left us.  Seth Simmons grew up as a camper at Wyldewood and was later a staff member.  Currently, he works as campus minister for the University of Central Arkansas at the University Church of Christ in Conway.  Last summer while on hiatus, Seth came back to camp and volunteered as a group preacher for the entire summer, giving lessons that inspired our young people to live strong and courageous lives.

Mayor Belinda LaForce with her husband; our third director and current county judge, Michael Lincoln; and Al Fowler.

Michael and Shelley Lincoln Award

Honoree: Searcy Mayor Belinda LaForce

This award is named after our third director and current county judge, Michael Lincoln. It is given to the business or organization in the city of Searcy who has partnered with us to help make the most of our programs.  Right before summer last year, we had a major malfunction with both of our pools.  After spending several late nights trying to fix the problem and knowing we couldn't possibly ready for camp, we got on the phone, asking for help.  Mayor LaForce responded quickly, sending water trucks our way for a free delivery of clean water in our pools.  We really would've heard it from the campers if Mayor LaForce hadn't helped.  Just think about it--no pool for your session of summer camp!  The mayor's help was an answer to many late night prayers.

Joe and Valerie Caruthers with Al Fowler.

Joyce Rushton Club

Honoree: Joe and Valerie Caruthers

Named for our long time food service director, Joyce Rushton, this award recognizes those who have taken an active role in the ministry of Camp Wyldewood through non-traditional means.  For many summers, Joe came with his children's youth group in Oklahoma City and volunteered as a group preacher.  A few years ago, Joe decided to go back to school to get his youth ministry degree and has since started working with Ridgecrest Church of Christ in Midwest City, Oklahoma.  And, of course, he now brings his youth group to camp.  

Dr. Glen and Nancy Blue with Al Fowler.

Latina Dykes Giving Heart Award

Honoree: Glen and Nancy Blue

In 2008, we lost Latina Dykes, daughter of our camp founder, John and Gertrude Dykes.  Ms. Dykes generous attitude through the years and her benevolent spirit left us all feeling much more cheerful.  We have missed our friend, but have decided to start this new award this year in her name and give it to someone who has made Wyldewood an important part of their benovelence.  This year, the Latina Dykes Award is given to local Searcy surgeon, Glen Blue, and his wife, Nancy.  Dr. Blue served on our board of directors for years, and though he resigned years ago, he has still made us an integral part of his giving.  We thank the Blues for their generosity.