Summer camps keep kids busy

By Howell Dennis

CITY EDITOR

CROWLEY – Most people associate summer time with vacations and relaxation. Not so for James Newsome, Director of the Acadian Baptist Center summer camp program.

“We have three camps going on this week,” said Newsome. “The next two weeks we will have children camps which will each be attended by approximately 2000 children.”

This week the Acadian Baptist Center (ABC), located in Richard, is hosting a Youth Camp, a camp for asthma patients, and a drum major camp. During Newsome’s 21 years at ABC, the site has held several different camps for various activities including band camps and football camps for several area high schools.

“When Lewis Cook was at Crowley High they held a football camp out there,” Newsome said pointing to the football field next to the center. “We have facilities that can handle just about anything.”

Upon entering the facility, there was a large group of youth camp participants enthusiastically listening to a Christian rock band. The kids clapped, danced, and sang along as the band cranked out its beats.

“The kids here have a really good time,” smiled Newsome.

During a tour of ABC, Newsome drove out to the wooded area behind the center. Several camp volunteers were caring for the center’s horses awaiting the those who would be taking part in the “asthma camp”. There was also a nature trail where camp goers take part in a rope exercise which teaches teamwork and discipline.

The center, which underwent renovations this past August, is an impressive facility which spreads over 84 acres. In addition to the aforementioned features, the camp also holds a motel-type facility (W.N. Prather Lodge), a swimming pool, and several classroom type facilities for when their sessions break into groups.

“Some people still don’t know about us out here and that’s a shame because I’m really proud of our facility,” Newsome said.

Several more camps are scheduled for the remainder of the summer. Those wishing to inquire about the Acadian Baptist Center’s summer programs can reach them at (337) 457-9047. ABC is located at 1202 Academy Dr. in Richard.