It is with a sense of gratitude that I report this year on the State of the Ben Lomond Quaker Center Association -- gratitude at the many blessings I have received as part of this well-grounded and truly Spirit-led organization.

Our annual retreat this year centered on the themes of Commitment and Abundance. We looked at how we experienced these in our lives and how we brought those experiences with us to our work in support of this place and its programs. The sharing and exercises we were involved in during that retreat sparked many ideas, and opened us to expanded possibility.

The Board and Staff feel a deep sense of satisfaction with the work which has been done over the past five years in implementing the long range plan. We met many of our goals in expanding and improving programs and facilities. It has become clear, however, that we are unable to complete the Redwood Lodge expansion at this time due to building code requirements which will significantly increase the cost of that project. The Board has reaffirmed our commitment to that project and we feel certain that as we move forward with the work we are led to do, the way will open for the resources necessary to support that work.

As a result of our retreat, an enthusiastic board member, Ted Obbard, took the lead in following up on an idea explored there. He enthusiastically pulled together the students, teacher, and the naturalist/staff to pave the way for our first environmental education camp, being held this month, for five to twelve year-olds. We will evaluate this trial run for the exciting possibilities it may hold for the future.

For the first time, we had an intern decide to leave before the year was over. Samara Rivett left at the beginning of March and is living and working in the area. We have been fortunate to have the remaining time filled by Laura Kummerer, a well-qualified former applicant. Quaker Center remains committed to the idea of nurturing leadership among Friends and has several promising applicants for next year's internship.

We are happy to announce that Alma Angelina Elrick Forbes, daughter of David Forbes, Maintenance Manager, and his wife, Heather, was born here on May 3 at 9 AM. We all share in the joy of welcoming this new young Friend.

The summer children's and service camps continue to be a wonderful way to explore and share Quakerism with the young. This year, the senior session of our youthcamps will return by popular demand. We are grateful for those who give of their time and energy to help with these fun-filled and fulfilling programs.

Alternatives to Violence (AVP) programs at Quaker Center have been very well attended this year and we feel this will be an important part of our program planning in the future. We recognize the importance of programs which teach ways of peace in a time when that is so needed.

As some of us say goodbye this year and others are welcomed to the Board, we are aware that there is always a continuity of commitment and abundance here: a commitment which is deeply felt, to this place and its service; and an abundance of the energy, enthusiasm, skill and dedication needed to carry Quaker Center forward into the years ahead.

Respectfully submitted,

Sue Torrey, Clerk
Ben Lomond Quaker Center Association