As hoped for, paintball is now a reality at Central Florida Bible Camp. Thanks to the generosity of several families who are strong supporters, approximately $4,140 was raised to fund a new paintball activity on the CFBC campus. Much of this was proceeds from the Benefit Dinner held in the West Palm Beach area on April 11th. Some Central Florida families contributed, also.
Our fileld is ready to go thanks to 2 1/2 days of hard work by a group from the Palm Beach Lakes congregation. A section of the woods west of the boys' cabins was cleared of underbrush, which was then used to create some temporary bunkers and obstacles. A couple of man-made bunkers were also added so, along with some fallen trees, we have the start of an excellent paintball field. As time goes on we can expand and improve it, but at the moment, we are ready! Our thanks go out to Rachel Byerly, Chad Brown, Shea Brown, Johnny Davis, Nicole Freseman, Dan Fuller, Grant Fuller, Kristen Fuller, Lauren Fuller, Kelly Hall, Peggy Hall, Warren Porter and Gene Puckett for all their hard work and their willingness to endure the heat and pick the ticks.We have also purchased enough equipment to outfit 20 players and 2 referees. For you paintball aficionados, our markers are Tippman Alpha Black Tactical Edition A-5 models. If you don't know what those are, they are paintball guns with M-16 style barrels and collapsible stocks. If that description still doesn't ring a bell, just remember this - they are way cool! Our safety gear includes chest protectors, neck protectors, helmets and goggles. All players will also be required to wear long pants, long-sleeve shirts and closed-toed shoes for safety reasons.
As we all know, paintball has some inherent dangers, as does tramping around in the the woods. For that reason, we will require all participants, and their parents, to sign a separate Waiver and Release of Liability and to agree to abide by our Safety Rules and General Rules of Play before being permitted on the field. These can be downloaded from the website and they will be reviewed with the players prior to any paintball activity. There will also be an small additional fee (currently $20) to help us cover the cost of paintballs and gas. By the way, only CFBC paintball markers may be used, again for safety reasons. If you plan to play, be sure to read the documents mentioned so you will understand all of the rules and requirements. Ignorance is no excuse - we will not make exceptions.
One last point, but it's an important one. Since each camp session has different Coordinators and schedules, it is up to the Coordinators as to exactly how and how much, or even if, they will incorporate paintball into their schedule. The camp has made the field and equipment available, but the Coordinators have the final word on how or if they will use it. Campers, please remember and respect that we are here primarily to grow spiritually. We will have fun also, whether paintball is in the mix of activities or not.
This is going to be a fun summer!
