Features Editor

Once again, it’s time to start thinking summer camp and the local Salvation Army is taking applications for its Camp Hidden Lake in Lexington, Miss. July 5-10.

"We still have several open slots but time is ticking," said Cindy Duke, director of the Pike County Salvation Army Service Center. "We will be able to take up to 23 campers between the ages of 8 and 12. Camp is a wonderful experience and it is offered to a limited number of boys and girls at no cost to those who qualify."

Qualification for the camp is based on income and Duke said anyone who is interested should contact her at 807-0200 to determine in they qualify.

"We have several campers who will be going again for the third year, so you know the camp is a lot of fun," she said.

Activities include, swimming, boating, basketball, softball, fishing, hiking, archery, crafts, skits, singing, recreational games and Bible study.

"The campers stay in cabins and there are counselors on duty 24 hours a day," Duke said. "Camp Hidden Lake is a complete outdoor summer experience. We want to fill all of the slots we have available. A physical is required so those who are interested need to get in touch with me as soon as possible."

There is a lot excitement around the Salvation Army Service Center right now. With plans being made for camp and for the center’s open house set for June 30, things are buzzing.

"We want to show our appreciation to our many customers so we are hosting Open House June 30," Duke said. "We planned it around the Fourth of July so we can honor our country as well as our customers. We invite everyone to stop by for a slice of watermelon, which is traditional for Fourth of July celebrations. We’ll also have some giveaways and we hope to have a lot of people stop by."

Duke said she would also like to toot the Salvation Army’s horn, literally.

The center is the recent recipient of a large truck which will be used for the pickup of large item donations.

"The truck is something that we have needed for a long time," she said. "It came to us from a larger Salvation Army store and I can’t say how much we appreciate it."

The truck will be available to pick up items on the day the center is notified they are available or pickups can be scheduled in advance to coincide with home cleanups or moves.

Duke said the center is in need of furniture and appliances that are in good working order.

"We also want to thank the Post Office for the postal food drive and all of those who donated items," Duke said. "We always need food items and we got a good variety and they were greatly appreciated. If anyone missed the drive and would like to donate to it, they may bring their food items by the store at 70 Court Square."

For more information about the Salvation Army and its services call 807-0200.