Every February, Wisconsin Pathfinder clubs look forward to our Winter Retreat at Camp Wakonda. In contrast to our camping events, where there is abundant space for everyone to pitch a tent, our heatable, indoor accommodations are more limited--which means attendance to this event is based on who can register first. Still, when the February weather brings sub-zero temperatures at night, we're able to pack nearly 200 Pathfinders and adult chaperones into our heated lodges and cabins.
This past weekend, our 2025 Winter Retreat theme was "Jesus is the Solution," and revolved around the earning of a brand-new pilot chemistry honor: Reactions and Solutions. Our Wisconsin Pathfinders Coordinator, Glenn Morrow, is on the NAD Honors Committee and has been developing this honor (and other forthcoming chemistry honors) with Dr. Ryan Hayes, our speaker for the event. It's exciting for our Pathfinders to hear that they are the very first in the world to earn this new honor, and there was much enthusiasm for the honors and Dr. Hayes' talks, which excellently incorporated chemistry principles and led Pathfinders to a fresh understanding of Jesus' love and protection for His people. Dr. Hayes was joined by two of his children, who helped with the science experiments and gave a fun, family feel to the presentations.
Another anticipated part of the annual weekend is the race that takes place on Saturday evening, after the devotional and educational meetings are finished for the day. In even years, Pathfinders prepare handmade vessels for the Toy Boat Regatta, and in odd years (like this year), Pathfinders bring wooden cars they have hand-crafted for the Pinewood Derby. It is always a treat to see the excitement of Pathfinders (and staff alike) as they bring their vehicles for weigh-in, and prepare to race against their peers. The creativity they display truly makes it fun for all to be a part of, whether they bring a car of their own or not. Ribbons are awarded to participants, based on speed and creativity and excellence in design.
Winter Retreat is also the deadline for our Pathfinder Fair Patch Design Contest. Every year, Pathfinders have the chance to submit their designs for Area Coordinators to choose from. One design gets chosen and will be displayed on our 2025 Pathfinder Fair patch. This year's Pathfinder Fair will take place May 2-4.
