Hockey - Horses - Xtreme - Figure Skating - Retreats

2011 Golf Classic

2011-08-15T07:44:00.001-07:00

Eighteen holes, one hundred golfers three hundred tees, and thousands in donations is what gives kids each year the opportunity to go to camp. Teen Ranch’s Charity Golf Classic, in it’s 22^nd year, is a highlight for staff and donors alike. Everyone gets together to make it possible for kids to go to camp.

This year on Monday, September 12 Ranch friends and family will tee off at Caledon Golf club for the annual event. Tee off is at 8 AM and the tournament runs as a ‘best ball’ competition. After the game all golfers and sponsors gather at the Teen Ranch Dining room for a meal and an auction. Prizes are donated from local businesses and other sponsors; last years prizes included passes to the Hockey Hall of Fame and a VIA Rail trip.

The 2010 tournament sponsored 35 campers to attend Teen Ranch’s summer week-long residential camp. These campers are from right here in Orangeville all the way to Harlem NY. During summer camp they develop skills in soccer, hockey, horse riding or extreme sports, are able to meet new friends and grown mentally, physically and socially.

Emma, a young camper here week two says, “Teen Ranch is an amazing opportunity for an adventure. I absolutely love it here. Teen Ranch is Heaven on Earth!!” Kayla, from week 4, had a similar experience, “It was my first time at teen ranch and I had such a good experience! I wouldn’t change anything!”

At Teen Ranch we feel so privileged to be able to build into the lives of kids.

Help us make it happen by golfing with us on the 12^th, by sponsoring the tournament or donating prizes. For more information please contact Shannon at 519 941 4501 ext 299 or email shannon@teenranch.on.ca

Focus - Brendan Obrien

2011-08-15T06:40:00.001-07:00

The theme for the summer this year is ‘FOCUS’. The verse we used to challenge the staff, and back this theme up, is found in Galatians 6:9, and reads:
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

Working for the summer at Teen Ranch, is an awesome opportunity to do ‘good’ for people, and to simply talk to them about God. However, we find that time and time again, things come up that take our focus away from doing these ‘good’ things.

Jesus gives us an awesome illustration in Luke 9 of what focus looks like. Jesus had asked several people to follow him, and they all replied with “yes, but first let us go and take care of some things first, ” and Jesus’ reply was, “No-one who puts his hand to the plough and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.”

What a great challenge to fix our eyes ahead and ‘FOCUS’ on what God calls us to do. He will help us do this when we ask Him.

KHL vs Canadian Hockey Games Friday & Saturday Night!

2011-07-20T07:52:00.000-07:00

The Russians have returned to Teen Ranch!

Donetsk Donbas, a team from the Ukraine, made up of Ukrainian and Russian professional players, from the Russian Upper League, are here training at Teen Ranch. Players from the KHL (Continental Hockey League), the farm club for the Russian Pro League are playing a team of Canadians this weekend as a part of their North American Training.

Their manager and director John McIntosh says "The Ukrainian team next season is joining the Russian Upper League. It’s a big step up for them. This Canadian tour is a chance to evaluate their players (27 coming to Canada). The tour is also a way to show the team their commitment towards building a professional program. Its my hope that we'll be able to bring one Russian or Ukrainian pro team each summer to Teen Ranch."

Canadian players are everywhere from Jr A to NHL draft picks for this years teams.

Games are July 22 & 23 at 6 PM in the Teen Ranch Ice Corral.

As a part of their Canadian hockey experience Donetsk Donbas will also be visiting sites in Southern Ontario at the Hockey Hall of Fame, Niagara Falls and the CN Tower. Though they are looking forward to exploring the area they are here primarily to train, their pro season starts approximately a month before ours.

Minute to Win It Needs

2011-07-08T07:41:00.001-07:00

I have another quick request for some things (thanks to all you who have responded to my other request!)

I'm looking for some things to use for minute to win it and various other camp activities. So some things that I could use that you would probably just throw out anyway are:
Empty cereal boxes
Empty soda cans
Empty toilet paper or paper towel rolls
Compact disks (especially the ones that you scratched or messed up so that they are basically only good as a coaster)
Empty kleenex boxes
Newspaper
Cardboard
Old (or new) puzzles (especially ones that are in the 20-60 piece range) - these are good for incorporation into games as part of a challenge, or they can be used for team building, and various sorts of things.

Thanks everyone!

Summer Camp

2011-06-16T07:49:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

We've had a busy couple months with school groups and planning for SUMMER!

As we organize ourselves for Summer program, there are some things we still need to make the games and activities the best they've ever been.

If you are able to donate any of the following items to Teen Ranch please call 519 941 4501 or email Josh Menzies at joshmenzies@gmail.com

Thanks so much for your generosity!

1) White sheets of any kind (for flags and such in summer)
2) Solid colour sheets of any kind
3) Rubbermade bins
4) Paint (finger paint, craft paint, fabric paint)
5) Water balloons
6) Boardgames (especially short ones like: Trouble and Sorry, as well as other short games like: Connect Four, Tic-tac-toe, Dutch Blitz, and games like that).
7) Any sort of old clothing that you think might be useful for a costume of some sort.

The Hockey Source Live

2011-04-20T07:02:00.000-07:00

Our director, Tim Stevens, was on the radio recently being interviewed by the Hockey Source about our summer schools.

Listen HERE.

Mother Daughter Equestrian Retreat

2011-04-19T08:07:00.000-07:00

Bring your mothers out for Mothers Day for a fun relaxing weekend full of good food, new friends and a great time on horse back.

Lessons and trail rides available throughout the weekend, as well as nature hikes, crafts, games, yoga and lots of relaxing!

$200 + HST

Call Britt for more information 519 941 4501 or email at britt@teenranch.on.ca

Carriage House Update

2011-04-19T06:52:00.000-07:00

The heat is on in the Carriage House! Hallelujah!! Bryan's Fuels along with EJ Walsh have hooked up the modern and very efficient boiler that heats the upper and lower levels with the in floor heating system.

Sean Coll and his crew have finished the drywall, priming and first coat of paint on the lower level walls and some of the ceilings...it looks really good! The stairs have been installed between the two levels.

The stairs, porches and entrances on the north and south ends are operational and looking really good. These are made with lumber from Terry Kell's property and finished under John Hayward's expertise and direction.

Jeff Schneyderberg and Darryl Schenk have worked long and hard to mill, sand, stain and spray all the trim that is scheduled to be installed by Dave Black this week.

All available staff hands were on deck to experience the raising of the first "beam" in The Great Room. This was orchestrated by John Hayward.

Mike Markquardt who comes all the way from Michigan, is coming to build the fireplace inside The Great Room. God bless you Mike!

In the near future we are looking forward to the return of our dear Irene Dunn from Australia. She is a master hand for tiling.

We are getting there. By God's grace, The Carriage House will be completed and fully operational. Bunkhouses 3 through 4b will be history!! Glory to God!!

Nico Koeslag is always friendly, supportive and smiling...and also happens to have been responsible for building Maintenance here at the Ranch since 2003. Thanks for all you do Nico!

Eleven Years!

2011-04-18T07:20:00.000-07:00

I find myself writing this on March 8th, 2011, eleven

years to the day of when I started working for the Lord at Teen Ranch Canada. What a blessing these last eleven years have been to my family and I. From my standpoint, I feel that working day by day in a Christian ministry has helped me to grow in my walk with God, as I`ve seen many people‘s lives' change here as they come to the realization that God is real and that he has a plan for each of our lives.

As far as my family is concerned, they have all been impacted. Jon and Josh both found their spouses here and Nicole and Katie have both been impacted by the Ranch as well. Thank you Lord for allowing me to serve you the last eleven years at Teen Ranch Canada.

Brian Smith continues to be a tremendous blessing to all or us—and if you come to Teen Ranch and he’s on -site, he’ll likely be the first one to welcome you. We have appreciated Brian’s of humour, steadfast faith and encouraging words over the years. We know you won’t mind if we wish you yet another ...

“Happy 11th Anniversary Brian!”

Property News!

2011-04-15T07:57:00.000-07:00

We have had a very busy and productive winter season caring for the facilities here at the Ranch. Fresh coats of paint and touch ups have been done in a few much needed places.

Thanks go to Mr. Darryl, Luke Murray, Nikki Scott, Sarah Fabok as well as Brian Smith and Jackie Wilson for their team effort in completing the work - especially with all that smelly fire code paint.

Some of the other projects that were completed were a new games room; a new fireside room; trim paint and touch ups in the Coach House as well as new feature wall on lower level.

We also saw new fire doors, Darryl has been doing a wonderful job keeping on top of these items.

The lobby in the Ice Corral has a fresh coat of paint. As well, work on the bathrooms is being done with the help of Randy Reeso who works at the Ice Corral.

Bev Marshall has been a star these past few months in monitoring and encouraging all the staff to help refresh the Ranch. Way to go Bev!

Certified Horsemanship Association

2011-04-14T06:39:00.000-07:00

Each May long weekend, Teen Ranch hosts an invaluable clinic that trains and certifies Horseback Riding Instructors. We use this for training and preparation for our own staff, and also certify about 20 others from all over Canada. Each participant is required to teach at least four lessons. They are evaluated by their group members as well as their Clinic Instructors with a huge emphasis on safety, education and fun on horses. This clinic drastically improves teaching ability, even within the five days of the clinic.

While participants aren‘t teaching, they are role playing for other instructors. This allows the instructors to have something to teach, but it also creates an understanding of where those beginner riders are coming from. Having our own riding instructors take part in the CHA Clinic has allowed us to provide well-trained, confident instructors for our guests.

Corrie Ensom is well-recognized as an excellent riding instructor and has taught our intensive program for many years. She is certified as a Master Instructor for CHA.

Basecamp

2011-04-13T07:10:00.000-07:00

Our brand new registration program is coming along very nicely. Every day brings us a little bit closer to the final product.

This weekend (March 18-20, 2011) was the testing of a module for the Snack Bar POS system. This module implements a full product database which is searchable via a barcode scanning system. Each item scanned gets added to a live shopping cart that automatically calculates totals and is payable by cash or credit/debit card. All payment information is instantly sent to our accountant, Anne Burzese, negating the job of an employee running the snack bar to pass the information on to Anne at the end of their shift.

The next module to be implemented will be a mass mailing project. This mass mailer makes it extremely easy to filter through our database full of contacts and send the appropriate, personalized emails. The database can be filtered by anything from campers and golfers all the way down to all males that play in our Men‘s League and like Mars Bars.

Dane Stevens has been a bless- ing to Teen Ranch. Using his knowledge and skills of web language and graphic design, he has created a new media outlook for the Ranch.

Hockey Programs

2011-04-12T06:31:00.000-07:00

Pond Hockey was great this season. We worked hard and finished

strong with the end of the season party. We look forward to Spring Hockey starting up April 10th and we also have 3 sessions left of skills and skating Wednesday nights.

A pre-rep tryout clinic will be held at Teen Ranch April 11th to the 15th. This is one of our new programs, designed to attract players to fine tune their skills before tryouts.

Of course, we can't forget the Three on Three summer hockey for all ages. We had a great turnout for Bring a Friend Weekend with 55 campers in our hockey program. Can't wait until summer camp – we‘ll see you on the ice!

-Jay Pagett

As head hockey instructor since January, Jay has fantastic ideas and the energy to further develop and fill Teen Ranch hockey programs. Jay was the Head Hockey Coach at University of Florida from Sept 2008, leading the Gators into battle. Jay studied Sports Management at Liberty University and has served as an on-ice instructor at Teen Ranch summer camp many summers.

Upcoming Events - April

2011-04-11T08:06:00.000-07:00

Spring is coming! (And I didn‘t receive that information from the

groundhog.) So how do I know? Because we at Teen Ranch have started to plan the Easter Open House! What does that mean for you? Chocolate, trail rides, giant swing, pony rides and lots more! The best part is...it‘s FREE! Come bring your whole family and join us on April 23, 2011. The Open House will be followed by a Teen Ranch VIP Reunion for all Teen Ranch alumni!

Attention all you great husbands and daughters out there - I am sure you are aware that Mother‘s Day is on May 8th. Instead of buying her the traditional vacuum cleaner or dish- washer (which I am sure she loved), how about giving her the opportunity to take a whole weekend off? This year we are introducing our first Mother/Daughter Equine Retreat. What better way to bond than over riding lessons, trail rides, spa night, chocolate fountains and campfires? Mom doesn‘t have to ride if she doesn‘t want to. Give her a weekend she deserves May 13-15th..

Full of amazing energy and enthusiasm, Britt is doing a fantastic job of keeping things humming here at Teen Ranch.

For more information on these events and others, please contact Britt at britt@teenranch.on.ca or visit our website www.teenranch.on.ca.

Program Fun

2011-04-08T07:59:00.000-07:00

It's interesting how much planning goes into getting a camp program ready to run, and it's rewarding to see things come together as that planning gets more and more underway, but more rewarding still is to be able to look back on the program after it has run its course and to be able to see where the planning paid off!

As a ground work of planning and preparation being built layer upon layer toward next summer, I am excited to see how it will all pan out! In the mean time, Bring a Friend weekend camps and March Break Day Camp was a great time of fun and outreach - both to kids who have been to Teen Ranch before and to kids who came for the very first time.

-Joshua Menzies

Josh joined the ranks of full-time staff as year-round Program Coordinator this past September. Having hosted weekday groups and run programs for school groups, day camps and camp weekends, he’s proven himself to be dedicated, orga- nized, creative, and more than capable of putting together and running a well-balanced program!. Thank you Josh!

Super Summer Staff

2011-04-07T11:49:00.001-07:00

Wow – what a line-up of gifted, mature staff God is bringing our way this summer to care for the campers and guests that He also brings along!

Daily inquiries about volunteering weekends and throughout the summer come in. For me, it‘s always amazing to see how God fits all the puzzle pieces in to put a team together who are eager to accomplish the mission He‘s given us to love Christ and radiate His love.

Positions are quickly filling with returning staff and new staff applying. As well as being blessed with great Canadian staff, there are also a number of international staff applying once again. These applicants hail from Australia, Scotland, France and Germany. We are excited to join together for a concentrated week of Staff Train- ing at the end of June in our effort to train future world leaders and then...

bring on the summer!

-Ann

Director's News

2011-04-05T10:56:00.000-07:00

The first thing that comes to mind is to mention what a wonderful staff we have here and to point out what a great job they are doing. Teen Ranch really is blessed to have some of the most dedicated and en- couraging and supportive people to be found! This is so much more evident when we consider what a difficult and trying year we have faced.

Canada Revenue Agency followed through on their opinion that Teen Ranch does not meet their test of what it means to advance the gospel and officially annulled our charity status in July 2010 removing our ability to issue tax receipts for donations made to Teen Ranch. Teen Ranch now operates as Not for Profit. Tax receipts can still be issued for donations made to the Teen Ranch Foundation, but there are many restrictions as to how this money can be directed to Teen Ranch for it‘s use. We are continuing to work on the details with our lawyers.

We have had to spend approximately $80,000 in fire department upgrades so far this year and have a considerable amount of work still to do.

The economy has been bad, summer camp and weekend group numbers have been down. It could be easy to become discouraged at times, but we hold on to the knowledge that we are in God‘s hands and He is a very big God!

For over 43 years God has lead us, cared for us and provided for the Ranch‘s needs just at the right time: His time. In the midst of everything, God continues to do His work and we have been very blessed to be able to share the message of Jesus with many people, of different ages, from different backgrounds and situations and even different countries. Being aware of what‘s happening in Japan at the moment, certainly helps put things into perspective for many of us in the midst of our trials.

Thank you to all of you who continue to support the Ranch in prayer, physical help and finances. God has done a great work here for more than 43 years, touching and changing the lives of many, many people, bringing so many into the Kingdom. Please pray with us that we will continue to walk by faith and be faithful to Him and the awesome work He is doing here.

Blessings, Tim

Let It Shine!

2011-04-04T10:55:00.000-07:00

My verse in the Bible is Galatians 2:20. It says, ―I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. This is my favourite verse because it tells us that when we live it shouldn‘t really be us living at all but Christ living in us! When people see Christians walk, talk, and just live in general they should be able to tell that this is Christ living in them. There should be a real differ- ence between Christians and those of the world. How do we make our lives look different? Read Micah 6:8 (another of my favourites) ―And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.

Alyssa Jansen has been a wonderful addition to our staff letting Christ shine through her everyday!

The American Camping Association talks about Summer Camp

2011-03-28T08:15:00.000-07:00

The Case for Camp — Why Kids Need It Now More Than Ever

By Peg L. Smith

Change is a part of life. It is often directly related to survival and can enrich one's life in ways unexpected. Childhood is in essence a time of profound change and development. It is exciting and disquieting at the same time. When it comes to our children, we need to be sure that change is made for the better.

We've been so concentrated on the brain, we forget about the rest of our bodies. This change in focus has lead to an obesity rate that is unacceptable. Our kids are not as healthy as the generation before.

Families used to live in a community. We've lost that, keeping kids inside and losing a sense of neighborhood.

Add to that the fact that our kids stand to inherit all the economic, social, and environmental challenges we've created, and the legacy we have left our children and youth begins to look bleak.

So, how do we prepare our children with the skills and more importantly, the competencies they will need to tackle changes in our world? We could start with a positive camp experience. A quality camp experience provides our children with the opportunity to learn powerful lessons in community, character-building, skill development, and healthy living — a meaningful, engaged, and participatory environment.

Camp promotes community. It creates this great space that shows kids how to live together and care for one another. There are norms and negotiation of boundaries; there are rules. Camp is a place where kids can "practice" growing up stretching their social, emotional, physical, and cognitive muscles outside the context of their immediate family. This is what childhood is supposed to provide.

Camp teaches critical thinking. We need to remember how important it is to be actively involved in the learning process, and camp affords that. We're going to need really strong problem solvers in the next century. We need the science, math, and biology, but without the ability to relate, connect, empathize, or inspire innovation, how will our kids be able to make a difference in the challenges now facing us?

The camp experience embraces the natural environment. While children have fewer and fewer opportunities to be outdoors, the camp experience advances the outdoor learning environment. As we become more concerned about saving the planet, we run out and make DVDs and videos about it. But the environment needs to be experienced to be appreciated. Kids need to catch tadpoles in the creek, wander among the trees, and feel the sun on their faces to understand the importance of those things. What happens to a generation that may grow up not seeing stars in the dark of the night?

Camp creates future leaders. The camp experience offers kids a close-up look at compassionate leadership through the camp director, counselors, resident nutritionist, and other camp personnel. And kids get loads of opportunities to practice being a leader themselves — song leader, lunch table leader, team captain, the list goes on and on.

Camp is an equal opportunity life changer. It addresses universal childhood needs not specific to a particular racial, ethnic, or socioeconomic group. Nobody is left out. It's all about childhood development.

Camp has a lasting impact. One of the greatest gifts you can give a child is a sense of success and achievement. Camp teaches kids how to be active participants, ask questions, ask for help, and try new things. They leave understanding that it's okay to feel a little uncomfortable sometimes, because that's generally what happens when you're getting ready to learn something. The camp experience translates back in real-world experience — in an "I can" attitude.

We need to advocate for our young people. We should promote opportunities for kids — give them camp experiences that serve as an antidote for the world's challenges. We need to recognize this is not a series of frivolous activities. We often think if it looks like fun it must be unimportant, but "fun" is a young person's "work" — to learn, to grow, to be productive, creative, and happy. If they don't do that work, they won't turn into healthy adults.

Now more than ever, kids need camp. Visit www.CampParents.org to find out how you can change a life by helping make it possible for every child to have a camp experience.

Peg L. Smith is the chief executive officer of the American Camp Association.

http://www.campparents.org/newsletter/0905/article3

Bring A Friend

2011-03-10T06:29:00.000-08:00

This weekend is our first Bring A Friend Weekend.
Stay tuned for more information!!

While you're waiting for these fabulous weekends, enjoy this clip from our Summer programs!

Mel's 75th!

2011-02-17T06:43:00.001-08:00

FINAL REMINDER!

Mel is turning 75 in March! Mel’s recent stroke was a scary reminder that we have to make sure that the people we love KNOW how much we appreciate them!

This is your last chance to write a note to Mel, letting him know how much we appreciate him and the work he has done at Teen Ranch and in your lives!

Please email your note RIGHT AWAY tocorrie@teenranch.on.ca or go to our website to complete your note online at www.teenranch.on.ca/thanksmel

Thank you for your help in reflecting on Mel’s amazing life and encouraging him for the future!

BAF FAQ

2011-02-03T06:57:00.000-08:00

So many of you have been asking questions about our upcoming Bring A Friend Weekends.

This is an opportunity for campers that are apprehensive about camp to come and check it out. A weekend camp is a non threatening, exciting environment to experience camp to the fullest!

When campers are dropped off (7 PM Friday night) they will sign up for their skill - hockey or horseback riding - and go straight into an all camp game.

Saturday morning is spent doing your skill of choice. Hockey players will be on the ice for shinny and skill development, while horseback riders will enjoy a ground lesson or trail ride. All campers will meet up for lunch then the afternoon is spent doing winter-y fun activities! We are hoping that the rock climbing wall and giant swing will be up and running too. We will have trail rides and snow shoe hikes, fort building contests, board games, ice time, crafts and more.

Saturday night will be spent doing a campfire and a camp wide game, a mission impossible or paint wars perhaps?

Sunday morning is a skill session and a fun game, followed by lunch. Campers are to be picked up at 1 PM.

We look forward to seeing you!!

Our Kids Media - Why Send a Child to Camp...

2011-01-26T07:36:00.000-08:00

Why Go To Camp

This article is a brief one on a great website that showcases and describes the reasons for children now to go to camp.
The newest print addition of Our Kids Mag tells parents about Nature "Deficit Disorder" and why kids of the 21st century need to spend time outside.

Here at Teen Ranch, campers maximize their time outside by learning their skills on horseback and through dry land training out in the sunshine. Afternoon activities are based around outdoor programming such as swimming, kayaking, jousting, trail riding and more.

Get outside! Go to camp!

GMHL All Star game at Teen Ranch

2011-01-20T12:01:00.000-08:00

An Olympic sized arena seemed to favour the World side of the Greater Metro Hockey League All Star game held at Teen Ranch in Caledon on Saturday, January 15.

The 13 team league sent its top players for the annual event which was divided between the World team, comprised of foreign born players, and Team North America which had home grown talent on the roster.

The first period ended with Team North America leading 2-1.

But the second period turned it around.

After playing to a 5-5 tie, the World team scored four in the second half of the frame putting the pressure on North America to get back in the game in the final twenty minutes.

But a strong attack gave the World a lead and Team North America just couldn’t make up the deficit.

A final goal with 59 seconds left on the clock gave Team World a 13-6 win.

The game won’t affect the standings or points leaders in the league but it did offer the fans an opportunity to see their favourite players mix it up with other teams and watch the best players step on the ice with other top talent.

“This is an opportunity to recognize your athletes and have them play for a decent size crowd.” said GMHL Director of Communications Marshall Uretsky.

Uretsky is also the owner of the Toronto Canada Moose hockey club.

“It gives the opportunity to exchange styles of play and meet some other players from around the league. Especially in our league where it has been a major decision for a lot of people to join our league.” he said in reference to the controversy that has surrounded the GMHL since it’s inception. “As well as to showcase the better talent in our league for scouts, and from everything to other players and parents and media to show that the calibre of our league is exceptional. We continue to improve every day, and like All Star games in general this gives a pat on the back to those who are in the top end of the league.”

The Shelburne Redwings had a strong showing representing Team World.

Redwings head coach Jim Aldred was on the bench.

Shelburne forwards Denis Zverey, Alex Nikulnikov, Stanislav Dzakhov, and defenceman Nikita Vakilyey kept a constant rotation on the ice, and goalie Georgy Kiselev was in goal for the first period of the game.

The Redwings will get back to business this weekend with a road game against Toronto on Saturday, January 22, at the Thornhill Community Centre.

The game is scheduled for 7:35 p.m.

By BRIAN LOCKHART

Sports Editor Orangeville Citizen

January 20, 2011

Family Day Winter Extravaganza

2011-01-19T07:52:00.000-08:00

Carriage House Renos.

2011-01-18T07:16:00.001-08:00

Since Irene and Chris from Australia finished tiling the upstairs bathrooms in the fall, much more has been accomplished on the Carriage House thanks to some extremely hard working, committed men, not the least of which is Mel. It certainly seems that not a day goes by (except Sundays) that Mel cannot be found there outworking the rest of us on staff as usual! :) By the way, Mel has almost

com- pletely recovered from the stroke he suffered back in June. We praise God for His goodness!

Much of the work completed is on the outside of the building. Thanks to the extremely generous donation of siding by Ross Mitchell, owner of Gemthane, Mel and Nico finished the siding.

John Hayward and his friend, Colby Chin, formed a landscape team. Weekend after weekend they labored to place large, flat, landscape stones to form stairs on each side of the building and make a beautiful retaining wall for sandy soil on the north and south sides. These were generously donated by La Farge.

One of John‘s passions is timber frame and he and handyman Jeff Schneyderberg have built the decks, porches and stairways. Matt Stevens has worked with them to stain the large timber frame.

Thanks to a company called Gel, soffit, fascia and eaves troughs (that is, gutters to the Aussies!) are nearly complete.

The hydro connection will soon be complete by C.I.D.‘s Robert Ralph. Robert was on full-time staff years ago and continues to be very generous to the Ranch.

As you can imagine in this cold, winter weather, the workers are really looking forward to Bryan‘s Fuel hook- ing up the new boiler to heat the building. Apart from being warmer, they can resume work on the drywall and completion of the lower level. Inside, Mel, Darryl Schenk and John have painted, trimmed and installed cupboards.

The Carriage House continues to stand as a testimony to the faithfulness of God and His ability to provide not only quality goods, but skilled and dedicated workers.

Nico Koeslag is always friendly, supportive and smiling...and also happens to have been responsible for building mainte- nance since 2003. Thanks for all you do Nico!

Jay Pagett - new Teen Ranch Hockey Instructor

2011-01-17T08:11:00.000-08:00

New Coach Jay Pagett is coming in to Teen Ranch focused and excited about our new hockey programs!

Jay is excited about the ministry and mentoring opportunities that lie ahead for him here, both during dry land and on the ice. He says "I'm most excited about building the hockey programs to quality camps with players like Brett Robinson, Danny Ellis, Dave Semenyna, Mike Binnie and Ben Clarke. We have an amazing facility at our fingertips, olympic ice and great living facilities that give us the opportunity to hang out with youth."

This article displays Jay's talents and previous coaching experience. We're so excited to welcome him to full time staff, and he looks forward to meeting you!

Florida Gator's Winning Streak!

Thank You Weekend Staff!!

2011-01-12T06:39:00.001-08:00

Well.........like I always say......I have THE best job on the Ranch!

Every Friday night I meet not only a variety of great people with their groups—youth groups, sports teams, men`s and lady`s groups, old friends and new. Now that is a blessing! ... but, to top that off, I have the immense pleasure of greeting weekend volunteers and their amazing parents who drive them literally from far and wide to spend the weekend with us at the Ranch!

Our weekends are busy with delivering snacks, preparing meals, cleaning up, doing dishes, taking trail rides and all that goes in to making our guests feel cared for and important. Barn staff have the responsibility to

care for and feed the horses as well as ensure the wellbeing of the riders......a huge undertaking for our young staff.

Those of us who work with the volunteers endeavour to provide clear and kind direction and training which has proven to pay off.......we are truly blessed to have fabulous youth who volun- teer over the summer when the stakes are high.

Apart from the practical, manual job training our goal is to en- courage spiritual growth in Christ in our young people. Weekly devotions are intend to awaken a desire to know more about the Lord and the interest He has in each one. On Sunday mornings we attend a local

church.....often that is an eye opener and provides conversation with the volunteers.

As full time staff we have seen campers become volunteers, vol- unteers become staff and staff become solid Christian citizens, husbands, wives and parents. If anything could be more rewarding than that. I have yet to see it!

It is an honour and blessing to know each and every one..........

Sharon Koeslag is our beloved week- end retreat hostess and mom to everyone! She consistently sets a high standard of excellence as she cares for guests volunteer weekend staff. Thanks for your TLC Sharon!

Question of the Day

2011-01-06T06:52:00.000-08:00

What do you do when it‘s cold, snowy, minus 10 degrees and all the pools are closed? Come to Teen Ranch of course! We have tons of events coming up for the whole family to enjoy!

Ladies of all ages, round up your friends and join us for a relaxing spa weekend complete with trail riding, snow tubing, ice skating and some of the best food you will ever have!

For all the summer campers out there, if you think camp was a blast in the summer, wait till you experience it in the winter! Get ready to make new friendships and revive the old ones in the snowy hills of Caledon!

And for all the Fathers and Grandfa- thers feeling left out, have no fear, we have something for you too; Family Day—the best Stat holiday the government has given us! Take full ad- vantage of it with our Winter Carnival — skating, tubing, family competitions and free hot chocolate awaiting you! Bring your snow gear and get ready to bring your family and have fun!

To learn more about these and other great events please visit us at www.teenranch.on.ca

We can‘t wait to see you!

Josh and Luke Polar Dip!

2011-01-05T12:35:00.001-08:00

What keeps You Coming Back to Teen Ranch Kyle?

2011-01-05T06:54:00.001-08:00

I first attended Teen Ranch as a ten year old camper. Ever since then, Teen Ranch has given me the tools to go from a house league hockey player to a AAA hockey player. More importantly, having had an ignorance of Jesus, to rec- ognizing him as Lord.

Now being on staff, helping and watching the development and transformation in our campers like I had, is an amazingly rewarding experience.I‘ve also loved being around such a fun environment and knowing that our campers can have an incredibly fun week, and still learn valuable life lessons.

―Teach a child to choose the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it.

Proverbs 22:6

Kyle Kokotailo has served his Lord here at the Ranch for the past three sum- mers as a bunkhouse leader, hockey instructor and lifeguard...and we are thankful!!

Winter Retreats

2011-01-04T11:06:00.001-08:00

Typically, the winter months bring a bit of down time. Not so much this winter. God has blessed us with lots of group bookings....and we are thankful!

One of the best parts of my job is to see both old and new groups come and go. We have built many good relationships with very faithful groups and are blessed to build relationships with new ones.

Some of the exciting things we have going on this winter include 120 Rus- sian hockey players and parents who are currently here for 2 weeks over the Christmas and New Year‘s holi- days. This is a great opportunity for us to host another International group and we hope and pray that it will grow into a more extensive relationship in the future.

January brings with it the opportunity to serve several first time groups. ..very exciting!

-Jody Boateng

Program Fun

2011-01-03T12:38:00.000-08:00

I'm excited about what awaits us in this upcoming year! Each summer, our goal here at Teen Ranch is that every camper will have the opportunity to experience the best week of camp that he or she has ever had. For campers who are return- ing, you can expect added ex- citing games and activities. I'm also really looking forward to the staff/camper reunion this February. It will be a great time of fun, relaxation, excel- lent food, and building friendships with campers and staff.

I love working here at Teen Ranch and the many great opportunities to interact with so many different people—to be able to have an impact on their lives and be impacted in return!

I invite you to join with us in prayer (I'm sure that many of you already have!) as we march

boldly on in our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ into all that this New Year holds for us; the fun, the excitement, but also the challenges that lie ahead.

-Josh Menzies

Past, Present and Future Staff

2010-12-30T07:28:00.000-08:00

This summer will be Teen Ranch‘s 45th year of operation. Throughout the years, we have had the privilege of serving literally thousands upon thousands of guests and staff. We hope that you are or will soon be one of them!

A sign on the left side of the lane greets you as you drive in and it reads, ―Drive Slowly—Future World Leaders Being Trained Here.‖ What do we mean by that? We‘d love you to know!

To help develop ―Future World Leaders‖ our goal is to aid in an individual‘s growth in four ways—

physically, mentally, socially and spiritually—and we are very intentional in doing this. This goal

directs everything we do, from running excellent programs to the process whereby people come

to volunteer on weekends summer staff or serve on full-time staff. Serving God by serving our guests, campers and fellow staff the absolute best that we can is priority....and we have an amazing, dedicated, full-time staff who exemplify and work hard to achieve this.

Frequently, we are encouraged that God is changing lives when people write and tell us how God has used Teen Ranch to impact their lives. Not only does the personal growth they experience affect them, but all in the bundle of life with them – and that‘s exciting!

This work couldn‘t be accomplished without people who are committed to give of their time, expertise or finances. A hearty thank you is due to all of you who have helped out in these ways.

Are you interested in investing some time here at the Ranch to help aid in people‘s growth? For those who want to help on week- ends, please write Sharon at TRhostess@hotmail.com. If you believe God may be pleased to have you here this summer, there is no time to lose. Email me at ann@teenranch.on.ca to find out about applying for a summer position.

May God richly bless each and everyone of you!

-Ann Stevens

Merry Christmas

2010-12-29T09:11:00.001-08:00

In the Christmas story, we hear about travelers; wise men from the East, who traveled a great distance to see the new King who was born in Israel. This was not an easy trip for these wise men as it probably took many weeks and covered a great distance, riding on camels through some very harsh country. They did it because they believed what the Scriptures foretold about God‘s plan for the world, and about the gift (the birth of Jesus) that He would give, that would be the Saviour of the world.

Their story and efforts should be an example to us. They didn‘t just believe; they acted on their belief; and because they did, they got to see the baby Jesus; the King of kings and Saviour of the world with their very own eyes. Just imagine that for the rest of their lives, they could say ―we saw the King, we met the Saviour‖. It changed them.

It‘s nice and comforting and gives us warm feelings to know about Jesus and to celebrate His birth at Christmas, but if we don‘t act on our beliefs, if it doesn‘t affect us. If it doesn‘t make us search Jesus out, it doesn‘t do us much good. If we truly meet Jesus, it will affect everything in our lives and everything we do.

This year at the Ranch, we have visitors that have traveled a great distance to spend Christmas and New Year‘s with us. We have four visiting Russian hockey teams who will stay at the Ranch and attend tourna- ments while they are here. Hopefully, some will be able to return and attend a hockey academy here at the Ranch. They are coming from a country where for almost a century they have been told by their leaders that there is no God. It is our pleasure and privilege to share Christmas and the love of Jesus with them. Our hope and prayer is that they too will see the King and meet the Saviour.

This is also our prayer for you. That as you celebrate Christmas with family and friends, you will see the birth of Jesus in a new and fresh way and you will experience the awesome love of God demonstrated to us in His gift, the giving of His Son, the birth of Jesus. Blessings to you all from Teen Ranch and MERRY CHRISTMAS!

- Tim Stevens

The COST of Christmas

2010-12-28T06:13:00.000-08:00

We arrived back home in Australia to the business that is Christmas...choosing gifts, wrapping gifts, finding car parks, grocery shopping and preparing food.

Through it all we heard com- ments on how much everything costs these days, the great expense that is Christmas.

But, we wondered....do we ever stop, in this crazy time, to con- sider what it cost God to send His Son to earth? Do we stop and wonder at the mystery and God's sacrifice for us?

Does it move us, this cost?

John 3:16 (The Message) says: ―This is how MUCH God loved the World. He gave us His Son, his one and only Son. And this is why, so that no one need be destroyed by believing in Him, anyone can have a whole and lasting life.‖

So as we prepare for Christmas day, may we all take time to set our hearts on how much God loves us and sacrificed for us.

JESUS is still the sacrifice. JESUS is still the restoration for a broken world. JESUS is still the answer.

Darryl and Kirsten Schenk, along with their lovely daughters, Adele and Milly hail from Australia. We are thrilled that they will continue to make the Ranch their home, returning after Christmas :)

Christmas Day Camp

2010-12-22T07:09:00.000-08:00

Christmas day camps have been a blast this week!

In crafts we made paper snowflakes, gingerbread houses and garland.
We played hockey and went horseback riding.
We have also played games, had snacks and gone on walks and even hay rides!

Day Camp goes on tomorrow and next week, December 29 - 30.

Also, keep your eyes open for announcements for March Break day camps!

The Russians are Coming!

2010-12-16T10:24:00.000-08:00

Most of the baby boomer generation will remember exactly where they were for the Canada – Russia series of ’72. But where will you be for the Ontario – Russia series of 2010? Teen Ranch is the answer!

Next week, starting December 21^st the Russians are coming to Teen Ranch. Four teams of 85 players total, ages 10 through 16 will be staying and playing in Southern Ontario until early in the New Year. Though their home base will be at the Ranch, each team will be travelling around to various holiday tournaments throughout the GTA.

The teams are equivalent to Ontario AAA standards and are said to be the best of the best in their age groups. In between tournaments the Russian teams will be playing exhibition games in Caledon at Teen Ranch. These games will be free admission and open to the public, so come out and see some international competition! Doors open half an hour before each game, refreshments are available at the Ice Corral.

On December 22 at 12:30 Team Kazakhstan plays the Toronto Red Wings. December 24^th at 9 AM is game two when Magnitogorsk Metallurg (Russia) faces off with our own Orangeville Flyers. The same day, at 10:30 AM Team Kazakhstan plays the North York Rangers. Teams take a break for a few days over Christmas, travelling to other tournaments as far away as Sudbury but are back at the Ranch on New Years Day for Team Kazakhstan to play the Owen Sound Greys at 4:30 PM. The last exhibition game to take place at Teen Ranch is January 3^rd at 3 PM when Team Kazakhstan plays their last game against the Central Ontario Wolves

Teams Kazakhstan, Magnitogorsk Metallurg and the Moscow Wings from all around the former Soviet Union found Teen Ranch through their General Manager, John McIntosh. McIntosh has been working in Russia for 17 years with these hockey teams through an organization called Athletes in Action. Athletes in Action works with young sports fanatics all over the globe training them in their sport of choice as well as mentoring them emotionally and spiritually. McIntosh hopes that this tournament will spark an interest in the Russia teams to build a hockey school at Teen Ranch, which will start in the Fall of 2011.

For more information check out the Teen Ranch website at www.teenranch.on.ca or call 519 941 4501.

Xbox 360 for Christmas

2010-12-08T08:17:00.000-08:00

Teen Ranch is doing a website blitz until January and we want to hear from you!

What keeps you coming back to Teen Ranch?
What are you favourite programs?
How did you hear about us?
Are you connected to us through social media?

Fill out our questionnaire on the Teen Ranch website for a chance to win a brand new Xbox 360!

Enter to Win HERE!

We Appreciate You

2010-12-06T08:27:00.000-08:00

Friday evening at Teen Ranch was bustling with friends new and old as we concluded another year with our annual Appreciation Dinner.
This is an opportunity for us as a staff to say a big thank you to everyone who has donated of their time, prayers and money to make possible what happens every day on the property.
Two of our new staff, Joshua Menzies (Summer Programs Coordinator) and Britt Stevens (Events) filled the night with fun as donors and friends heard the stories about past and present campers and how Teen Ranch has touched their lives.
Attendees sat and conversed with staff and also heard about many of our new ventures this year including a marksmanship range, new water slide, building renovations and the brand new Carriage House. Though the carriage house isn't finished yet, it's well on its way to housing guests, hockey teams and many campers (hopefully) in the next year.

So thanks to all who attended, we wish you a wonderfully Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Christmas at the Ranch!

2010-11-30T07:05:00.000-08:00

We love Christmas around here! It’s so beautiful and festive with all the sparkly twinkling lights, garland and our many Christmas trees! The offices are full of Christmas music and it's so nice to come inside after exploring our winter wonderland. We are truly blessed here and it's so evident at Christmas!

Especially when it comes to our annual Appreciation Dinner. This week we look forward to hosting some of our donors, sponsors and volunteers from this past year. We will enjoy Christmas dinner and hear about what God has been doing in and around the Ranch in 2010. We will also let them in to some little secrets, plans for 2011. So exciting!

Christmas break week we host two separate day camp weeks. Here the campers will do crafts, play games, ice skate and pony ride. We have a number of fun Christmas crafts ready for campers, parents.... get ready to be amazed! This season we will also be having a number of groups come in to celebrate the holidays with friends and family. We enjoy being able to meet all these new faces and have fun with old friends.

Keep in touch or stop by to say hi any time during the holidays; we would love to see you!

Overnight Camps

2010-11-23T07:35:00.000-08:00

Came across an article from City Parent's website today about the advantages of overnight camp.
It talks about how overnight camps "build independence and social skills."

Here at Teen Ranch our campers develop mentally, physically, socially and spiritually to become independent kids. They have time to bond with friends and mentors both in and outside their cabins. Games during evening hours strengthen their experience with team work and connection with peers. Their bunk house leaders will give them tips about growing up and teach them valuable Biblical lessons.

Check out the article on cityparent.com for more information about choosing a camp. http://www.cityparent.com/article/15997

We hope to see your kids next summer!

Royal Agricultural Winter Fair

2010-11-15T07:15:00.000-08:00

It was such a blast and a total blessing to be able to catch up with many of you at this year's Royal Winter Fair. Our booth, complete with Horse Life Adventures for Wii and a touch screen featuring our latest programs, was a hit!

We enjoyed visits from new friends and old friends alike and really loved the opportunity to meet so many different people who have come to visit us over the last 40 years.

It was also fun for many of our international staff, who have never visited the Royal, to experience Canada's finest in equestrian and farm life. They came back on property with stories of discovering new booths every day!

This week we will be having our draw for the Free Week of Camp and Trail Ride for TEN and winners will be notified shortly.

Thanks again for all of you that visited us this year at the Royal.
We hope to see you again next season!

An Interesting Read

2010-11-10T07:09:00.001-08:00

http://www.relevantmagazine.com/god/church/features/23335-does-community-really-matter

Relevant Magazine article about the value of community.

Read it.

And have a wonderful day!

Warm up with Summer fun!

2010-11-03T07:05:00.000-07:00

Teen Ranch Camp Experience

2010-11-02T06:42:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lVs1DbXvLak

New videos on Teen Ranch youtube channel!

Hockey

Horses

and CAMP!

Winter Events

2010-10-29T06:57:00.000-07:00

One of my favourite parts of winter is being able to ice skate!
And Teen Ranch's Saturday night public skating has started!!

Come by the Ice Corral every Saturday between now and March at 6:30 PM to go skating. Bring family and friends and rock out to the latest songs on your skates. And while you're here, feel free to walk (or drive) across the tracks to explore the rest of what we have to offer.
During winter months guests can enjoy our tubing hill, snowshoeing, hiking and much more.

Let it snow!

Royal Agricultural Winter Fair

2010-10-25T08:17:00.001-07:00

Teen Ranch will be at the Royal for the full two weeks of the event.

Come check out the table and see all that Teen Ranch has to offer in the next few months.

We're currently working on developing program for Summer 2011.
Stay tuned!!

Fall Fest Pumpkin Painting!

2010-10-20T10:32:00.001-07:00

Autumn Time

2010-10-19T06:55:00.000-07:00

As Fall continues on the Ranch has been full of fun and excitement!

The Fall Fest was a HUGE success, great fun for both the staff and the community as we opened the gates and had a day full of pumpkin painting, bull riding and giant swing-ing. Many first time visitors were very excited about what they saw on the other side of the tracks. And it was a huge blessing to us to be able to share our thankfulness with friends and family.

Last week we were able to put new carpet into our dining hall that came to us as a very generous donation from a good friend of the Ranch. It looks great!

This week we are hosts to another TCDSB group. It's always wonderful to see these kids bonding, learning more about each other and their Saviour. They are also very helpful to our staff during their activities and meal times. Our baby Zoey is an exciting draw for the school kids who live in the city.

Friday is our Horse Show Banquet where riders who participated in the shows throughout the year can gather and celebrate each other's accomplishments in the season past. Friends, prizes and great food! Happy Horse Show Year!

Barn Staff

2010-10-12T10:27:00.000-07:00

We've been so busy the last few weeks I have neglected posting on the blog.
So here it goes again!!

The Real Deal had an excellent turn out from camps and youth groups all across Ontario! We hope that these kids were blessed in some way by the opportunity to learn and worship with hundreds of other youth.

The Teen Ranch Fall Fest was also a hit! We had a couple hundred show up on Saturday and have fun around the property with pony rides, games and even a mechanical bull! Staff and visitors alike shared what they were Thankful for this year and everyone had a wonderful time in the beautiful sunshine!

As we look to the rest of the year we're excited about the upcoming Hunter-Jumper Banquet, the Royal Winter Fair and having the Australian National Hockey Team here in December.

Keep posted!

We are also looking for a full time person to come on to work with us in the barn as of Nov 1.
If you are interested please contact Teen Ranch attn Corrie Ensom at corrie@teenranch.on.ca

Thanks!

The Real Deal

2010-09-30T11:00:00.000-07:00

http://argonauts.ca/realdeal

Life of a Bunk House Leader

2010-09-23T08:24:00.001-07:00

I really enjoy bunk house leading at Teen Ranch, though it can be draining at times. Any- one who has done it for an extended period of

time can tell you that it's not easy - not if you do it well. Spending time with the kids when you would rather be with your friends and dealing with things like homesickness and lack of respect can be draining for sure.

Why do I enjoy it? There are some shallow reasons to be sure, the time that you do get to spend with other staff is amazing, and the Ranch is a great place to be in general, but the real reason that I love being a bunk house leader is that I get to share the gospel with kids over and over again! I get to discuss it. I get to explain it. I get to tell it to some people for the first time! It's truly amazing!

Josh Menzies, son of former camper Rob Menzies, has been involved most sum- mers his whole life. We are pleased to have him start this month as Teen Ranch’s year round Program Coordinator

Cory Boyd and the Argos

2010-09-21T06:25:00.001-07:00

Come out to the REAL DEAL.
Argos vs Roughriders. Oct 2, 2010.
Tickets available through Teen Ranch as low as $20!
http://www.teenranch.on.ca

Check out this clip on Cory Boyd
http://watch.tsn.ca/cfl-news-and-highlights/clip344628#clip344628

Upcoming Events.

2010-09-20T10:35:00.001-07:00

Saturday, October 2 is the Real Deal—Come sit with Teen Ranch Staff and watch the Toronto Argos vs. Saskatchewan Rough Riders, hear Pinball Clemons and enjoy Christian band Building 429. Contact us for tickets.

October 9, you, your family and friend are invited to take part in our first-ever Fall Festival. Pony rides, pumpkin painting, carnival games and more are all taking place right here.

For details and more of our upcoming events check us out on Facebook: facebook.com/ teenranch or on Twitter: twitter.com/teenranchcanada. Hope to see you soon!!

Shannon Hicks has been involved with Teen Ranch since 1991 and is blazing the trail as the first-ever Teen Ranch Sales and Marketing Coordinator.

What Keeps You Coming Back to Teen Ranch Val?

2010-09-17T06:14:00.001-07:00

I have been a volunteer at Teen Ranch since March, 2001 initially on weekend staff and eventually moved to helping each summer for about four weeks.

Why do I do this? Most teachers look forward to a long break to recuperate from what is often an exhausting year. Teen Ranch IS a place of rest and refreshment for me, in spite of long days in the kitchen, snack bar, painting, weeding or whatever else I‘m asked to do! Great friends, a chance to work with children, and a fantastic oppor- tunity to serve God keep me ener- gized. I have and continue to learn so much about God through both the full time and summer staff as I interact with them. Selfishly, I come back to Teen Ranch because I am always blessed. More importantly, and my central reason for volunteering at Teen Ranch is the impact I have seen in the lives of campers, retreat guests and staff. There is something about Teen Ranch that cannot be put into words. God is clearly in this place. People immedi- ately feel loved, accepted and safe. I consider it a privilege to be one of the smiling faces that make this possible.

Valerie Moreton has been a Music Teacher since 1999 with the Toronto District School Board.

Top Ten Summer Highlights

2010-09-16T07:14:00.000-07:00

1. People that were here last year came back— AWESOME!!

2. New staff members and they were all amazing.

3. Super Hero week was amazing. Why? Flame Boy was back in action that‘s why!

4. ALL the games we played—Gauntlet was fantastic

5. There were more gin- gers (red heads) than I‘ve ever seen in my life. I felt peace knowing that I am not the last one.

6. I got to spend the summer in the hotel with the coolest roommate.

7. Alka-Seltzer Explosion— don‘t need to say anything more except—thanks Jared :)

8. Seeing campers from last year and witness how they have grown.

9. Being at the Ranch...there is a peace here which I don‘t get in the city of Glasgow.

10. Last, but not least, Extreme Skipping. Thank you Stefan and Mike— also known as Coach and Aviator.

- Graeme Sharp

SUMMER and FALL STAFF 2010

2010-09-14T06:49:00.001-07:00

What a summer. What a staff. Thank you Lord! And to you summer staff, ̳thanks‘ is not enough to express our deep appreciation for encouraging, challenging and inspiring us as you passionately invested your time, energy and talent to make a difference in the lives of the campers God sent to Teen Ranch this summer. We trust that God, who is no man‘s debtor, will come through on His promise to refresh you just as you have allowed Him to use you to refresh others—and that He will bring you back soon :)!

This month we are very saddened to say good bye to long term staff that are family to us. Kayla Schenk has served here as a bunkhouse leader, kitchen staff and crafts guru and goes back to Australia to work and study. Luke Rettie has served as a bunkhouse leader, in the dish pit and as grounds maintenance boss. He is going home to Scotland to find work and then? A couple of lessons he‘s learned include, ―Be a self starter‖ and ―It‘s better to be five minutes early than to be one minute late. :) Lee Stevens is beginning a brand new adventure undertaking the running of her own stable in Shelburne. Thank you to each of you for allowing God to work powerfully in and through your lives here.

We have several summer 2010 campers applying to fill volunteer hours here and we are glad :) Some will become next summer‘s staff. Applying to do so requires each one to complete a nine part Bible Study Discipleship course. Here‘s some feedback from this summer‘s studies:

―The most meaningful part (of this study) to me is God‘s solution to our sin because when you are willing to confess your sin‘s and ask for forgiveness you are able to live a satisfying life and eternal life. I am going to keep trying to live by God‘s word so I can live a better life.

-Ann Stevens

From Our Director

2010-09-10T07:33:00.000-07:00

What‘s the mission of those of us on staff at Teen Ranch?

―To love Christ and radiate His love.

Many times bunkhouse leaders have commented on the spiritual hunger of campers this past summer and we know that some of them have put their trust in Jesus as Saviour and Lord of their lives.

In answer to the question, "What is one thing you have learned from your stay at Teen Ranch this week?" Here are some camper quotes:

―New things and not to swear

―A lot about God

―How to clean my room

―A lot about God and the Bible

―That you have to stick together as a team

―God is always with us in whatever we do

―You can do anything if you put your mind to it

―To be myself

―A lot of new hockey skills and techniques

―Have fun and don‘t give up

―A lot about God and friendship. I also feel I have grown as a rider

―A lot of different skating moves

―God is loving, forgiving and awesome

―Cantering over a jump

―How to talk to God

―A lot. To pray to God more and to trust Him with everything.

What an incredible responsibility and privilege we have to be involved in God‘s eternal work here. It has been an amazing summer and we thank God.

-Tim Stevens (Director)

Hockey Training

2010-09-09T12:10:00.000-07:00

Hockey is a constantly growing and evolving sport, and since the rule changes in 2004, the sport has gradually changed from favoring bulky, strong players to players emphasizing speed and agility. With a new season upon us, here are five tips to improve that on-ice speed, off the ice.

1. Improve your leg strength: Basic concept that lower body strength translate to on-ice speed. A variety of off-ice exercises are recommended to build this strength such as one and two leg squats and dead lifts.

Emphasize Power: A fundamental component of improving your on-ice speed is improving your lower body power. One of the most common exercises for improving this is the hang clean exercise (it’s a tricky technique I recommend looking it up on youtube). For younger athletes explosive lunges are recommended. The main focus in these exercises are explosive power which relate to explosive power on the ice.

3. Hockey Specific Strengthening: While it’s important to gain a fundamental general strength, there’s importance in strengthening the lower body muscles through hockey movements. Our summer campers from our elite hockey program will be familiar with the penguin hill sprints we often put them through. Exercises like this mimic the skating movement and strengthen the muscles used when skating.

4. Improve Your Flexibility: Improving your flexibility will allow you to maximize your stride and give you a greater range of motion. This will also allow you to reduce injuries throughout the season. Hockey players should try and stretch before and after each workout to improve flexibility and decrease chance of injury.

Similar to the Teen Ranch Elite Hockey Program’s dry land, lower body exercises should be integrated to a workout plan 2-3 days per week. These tips will allow for you to maximize your speed, and make you an overall better hockey player. An average NCAA hockey player can skate from goal-line to blue-line in 2.8 seconds, better start training!

-Kyle Kokotailo (summer hockey staff)

It's ALL About Jesus

2010-09-07T06:29:00.000-07:00

The message of the Gospel has gotten a little foggy these days with the myriad

of issues facing people in the new millennium. Ask the average person on the street what a Christian is and it may be a while before you hear anything about Jesus or the cross. As Christians our message is simply Jesus – who he was, what he said, and what he did.

Our mission is to share that person with the world. God made us to belong to Him, but we wandered away... Jesus is the way back. More than forty years ago Mel founded Teen Ranch on that message, and the heart of it has never changed.

I have delivered the essence of

this message at countless camp- fires. It‘s a personal message. It‘s non- threatening. It‘s all about a meaningful relationship with God though Jesus.

Our opportunity to deliver the message is certainly more fo- cused during our time at the Ranch, but most of us live our lives away from the barn, the Ice Corral and Dining Room. More often than not, the good news of a relationship with Jesus comes to a person from someone they already have a relationship with. God has blessed us all with the ability to share that message. There may be people in your lives who may never hear it un- less it comes from you...

Over the years Mel has taught me many things, but one of my first summers at the Ranch he

said something that I never lost sight of. Quoting St. Francis of Assisi, he said: ―Preach the Gospel at all times... when necessary use words.‖

Jesus came to save us, unite us and teach us. Question: What can YOU do to spread the message?

“For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ.”

1 Corinthians 3:11

- John Clarke

John Clarke, his wife Velvet, son Ben and daughter Kayla have been a huge blessing to each of us for the past 13 summers.

Hockey Posts

2010-09-02T06:10:00.000-07:00

Stay tuned for our new Hockey posts.
We're hoping to encourage young players in their development and invite them out to play with us at the Ice Corral during all seasons.

Our year round Hockey program director Jim Ensom and summer staff member Kyle Kokotailo will be updating regularly with the wild world of hockey.

New Filly

2010-08-26T11:39:00.000-07:00

She's not named yet.... ideas?

21st Annual Golf Classic

2010-08-26T06:22:00.001-07:00

The 21^st annual Teen Ranch charity golf tournament will tee off at the Caledon Country Club on September 13, 2010.

The Teen Ranch Fall Classic is a day of great golf, terrific food and lots of fun. But most importantly it is an opportunity for you to make it possible to help families in financial need send their kids to Teen Ranch summer camp. Money raised will also help upgrade sports equipment and support our volunteer staff.

The 21st Annual Teen Ranch Fall Classic Golf Tournament gives individuals and companies an opportunity to participate in building tomorrow’s leaders.

This summer more than forty kids were sponsored by the golf tournament, able to spend a week enjoying camp, making friends and building memories. Some campers this year came from Toronto others as far away as Harlem, New York. Shaena, a camper from week six says “[Teen Ranch] is a great environment and the people are amazing!” Week five camper Sakeenah says “[camp] is the funnest part of life”

Teen Ranch is a non profit Christian camp that was founded in 1967; it is an independent, non-denominational sports camp specializing in English and Western Horsemanship, Hockey and Outdoor X-treme Adventure camps. The goal of Teen Ranch programs are to help kids make positive decisions for their lives, building them up to be the best they can be. All programs promote a balance in the physical, social, mental and spiritual dimensions of life, based on solid Biblical principles.

Many local sponsors come out to the tournament annually as well as friends of Teen Ranch, hockey greats such as Paul Henderson, Ron Ellis and Mike Gartner. This year NHL Hall of Famer Ray Scapinello will be golfing and sharing stories through lunch about his years in the League.

To sponsor or play in the tournament please call 519 941 4508 or email registrar@teenranch.on.ca. For more information please visit our website at http://www.teenranch.on.ca .

Teen Ranch is the Place for YOU!

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Check out this week's Caledon Citizen for an overview of Teen Ranch's horse program.

Latest information on Hunter/Jumper shows on ranch website.

http://www.teenranch.on.ca

Yesterday's Activities

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Horse Mania Games in the Rodeo Ring!

BOOT CAMP

2010-08-17T07:32:00.000-07:00

Teen Ranch in the summer runs weeks in a variety of themes.
This year we've been taken over by pirates, mad hatters, super heros and more as week by week more characters make their homes in the bunkhouses.
This week its time to shape up and get fit as the once-kind super heros trade their capes for fatigues.
Its ARMY WEEK!

Campers will participate in a variety of games and dinners based on the boot camp theme.
Josh Marshall is our campfire this week and will share with campers about the strong men in the Bible who fought for what they believe is right.

Come by the Ranch this week and see the training in action.

http://www.teenranch.on.ca

Foundation Golf Tournament

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Monday September 13, 2010 is our annual golf tournament.
Each year money is raised through the tournament to send kids to camp who would not otherwise be able to participate.
This year's tournament will be held at Caledon Golf Club.
Tee off is at 8 AM
Lunch and prizes will follow at the Ranch.

For more information please visit http://www.teenranch.on.ca

Moving On....

2010-08-11T06:36:00.000-07:00

Wow. Where to begin for my experience at Teen Ranch. It has been a part of my life since I was 14 years old. I‘m now 28 and have always considered Teen Ranch to be my second home. My family has had the privilege of being involved with the Ranch for many years.

Teen Ranch has taught me a lot as I have worked in the barn— as a bunkhouse leader— Snack Bar manager and finally the Registrar and Bookings Coor- dinator. I feel privileged to have been a part of so many areas of the Ranch throughout the years.

I am now starting a new chap- ter of my life and am writing you from Guadalajara, Mexico. This is my home for the next 6 months. I got married June 1, 2010 to a wonderful man name Joshua Boateng (JB). We are in Mexico because he is a profes- sional soccer player. Who knows where God will take us next!

Even though I am in Mexico I will still be able to be a part of Teen Ranch. At this time I am still working part-time as the Booking Coordinator for Re- treat Groups and Hockey Teams. I hope you all have a great summer and that you take in all that God has in store for you!

Jody Robinson is family to all here and dearly missed. Sarah Atkinson has competently stepped in as Summer Camp Registrar.

The Carriage House

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Steady progress is being made on the Carriage House and every step brings new excitement!

Last week a large load of timber was delivered from Terry Kell's own bush. It has been kiln dried and will be used to build the framework for the porches and decks. It will also be turned into beautiful trim for the Great Room by our very skilled contractor, John Hayward. The Great Room is a large meeting room on the upper level. It has a cathedral ceiling and a lovely stonework fireplace.

The stone work on the outside of the building has been completed by C and S Masonry. The plumbing is being completed as we go by Ladder‘s Plumbing of which Dane Stevens has been employee for almost 3 years. The siding has arrived being generously donated by Ross Mitchell‘s company, Gemthane. John and the crew have been diligently milling, sanding and assembling a beautiful solid maple door and window trim at the workshop here at the Ranch.

Much of the upper level has been primed and painting continues by Mel's daughter Michele. The Carriage House is a great demonstration of the greatness of God and the goodness of His people!

Nico Koeslag is responsible for Building Maintenance and has lived on-site as full-time staff with his lovely wife, Sharon since 2003. They are parents, grandparents and adopted family to many!

http://www.teenranch.on.ca

From our GM

2010-08-06T06:38:00.000-07:00

Why are we doing what we are doing?

I asked the same question be- fore I accepted the position of new General Manager of Teen Ranch about three months ago. Why would I take such a posi- tion at Teen Ranch?

I am here to assist Teen Ranch in achieving its purpose, which is to develop kids of all ages in four different areas – physical, mental, social and spiritual using Biblical, Judeo-Christian values.

Why Biblical, Judeo-Christian v a l u e s ? ......... T h e y work........ as evidenced by a 42 year history. Simply put, Teen Ranch is here to change lives in a way that much of the world is not providing.

Kids need to get a solid foun- dation at a young age and have it continue into their adult years. Programs and activities at Teen Ranch provide tools

and use methods to ensure that great life principles are learned. People also have lots of fun and build great relation- ships doing it.

I trust that you will all be moved to support and help Teen Ranch at every possible opportunity starting with your prayers, participation and in- volvement in its various activi- ties and events. Join our Face- book network and tell your friends. There is a lot to be done. Thanks for being there.

Fred Dyke has been with the Ranch as a part-time consult- ant since 2000. He has over 35 years of management experience in various industries including banking, printing and charities. Fred has given semi- nars in management related topics in hundreds of cities across North America as well as Europe. We are thankful to have Fred on board full-time

http://www.teenranch.on.ca

Top TEN Reasons to Camp at Teen Ranch This Summer!

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1. It‘s summer in Canada and soooo much warmer than Australia right now!!

2. We have amazing games and themes to keep you en- tertained alllllll summer long!!!

3. International staff....enough said.

4. Super fun new activities including a frolf course (frisbee golf), rifle range and Iceberg!!!

5. Seriously...where else can you dress up every night with more make-up than you‘d normally wear in a year and have people tell you that you look awesome?!?!

6. Where else in life will you make friends like you do here?!?!

7. This amazing group of staff only gets together once a year and you don‘t want to miss out on that!

8. Nothing beats a good campfire in the hills while the sun sets over Orange- Day Camp ville.

9. Riding, Hockey, Adventure X-treme and Day Camp programs are AMAZING - just read camp- er comments above!

10. Memories to last a life time.

Lynda Thoms is a teacher in Australia and is investing her fifth summer here at Teen Ranch to bring you a terrific summer of programming fun :)!!

Summer Staff - Transformers

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WOW – God ALWAYS provides just what is needed – no more and no less. Each summer, He proves over and over again that He knows the end from the beginning and everything in between. He miraculously fits together the puzzle pieces of staff members to meet the needs of the campers and guests that He also orchestrates to be here. Not only this, but He provides great encouragement along the way.

One of our staff writes, “...although I have been a Christian my whole life, as I start my journey at the Ranch, I feel like I am really starting to become the true Christian and really give my life to the Lord. I am excited to keep my relationship growing with the Lord this summer and for the rest of my life. I am so thankful for the people at the Ranch for the way they have impacted my life.”

Another staff member writes, Throughout this past year, I‟ve continued visiting the Ranch on weekends. I learned so much about God with every single visit. One night, while I was at home doing a (Ranch) Bible study, I came across a verse „From the horns of the wild oxen, you have rescued me.‟ – Psalm 22:21-22...It hit me really hard all at once and it encouraged me to take that final step and accept God into my life completely...If I hadn‟t attended camp that week, I would probably would not have found my way back to Christ. I‟m so thankful and I feel so honoured and blessed to be able to say that I am a part of the Teen Ranch community. Teen Ranch really is a special place and there is something here that just can‟t be ex- plained. It‟s the most heartwarming place and it‟s so full of love. It‟s the perfect place to heal and I‟m so happy to have found it.”

We know and thank God that it is His Holy Spirit who is at work in people‘s lives here. God IS love and when we allow Him to have His way with us, His love shines in and through us.

Ann Stevens is the wife of Tim. Together, they have been blessed with six children. Ann is responsible for Staff Development and is thankful to have been involved with Teen Ranch for 39 years as camper, summer and full time staff

Teen Ranch Round Up

2010-08-03T08:38:00.000-07:00

A word from our director.

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Hi Everyone,

Summer camp has rushed upon us again for another

year. It seems to just be over and BAM, it‘s here again.

It‘s really exciting to see the kids here having so much fun and to consider what God is going to do in the lives of many of them. Let‘s keep praying for lots more kids to sign up this summer.

It is amazing to see the ma- turing, development and spir- itual growth that takes place in our young staff as they commit themselves to service this summer.

Doesn‘t how God works give you a sense of awe?

Thanks for your interest as we continue to move ahead in God‘s work here at the Ranch. It‘s sometimes hard, frustrating, and even a little overwhelming, but we contin- ue to strive together as we

work towards what God has in store for us and the Ranch‘s future. Please pray that He‘ll give us all the wis- dom we need to accomplish His will for us.

With thankfulness and love to all, Tim

Tim Stevens, son of Mel, grew up here at the Ranch. He lives on site with his wife Ann and six children. Having work experi- ence in each area of the Ranch, God has well equipped Tim for his role as Executive Director.

http://www.teenranch.on.ca

Teen Ranch is on Blogger

2010-07-30T06:51:00.000-07:00

More information to come.

We'll keep you posted!

http://www.teenrach.on.ca