By Chad Hershberger

When were were raising funds for the Evergreen Center construction over 20 years ago, we had an idea we felt would be a fun way to promote the 40 By Faith campaign. We invited people to host dinners in their homes, invite friends, and give a little talk about our efforts. The host would supply all the food and the venue and those who came would give a donation to camp that was equal to what they might spend on an evening out like that.

I honestly can’t remember how many of these we ended up doing, but I can remember that the first one was at alumni staff members Carl and Nelia Jenkins’ home. They hadn’t even moved into it yet. They purchased the house and held the dinner there before they moved in! One host had a live band perform at his dinner and I definitely remember there was plenty of good food!

When we were trying to pay off the debt of our loan for the Evergreen Center, Karl and Carolyn Zimmerman, faithful Lutherans and owners of Shade Mountain Winery, were approached to support the campaign. Since we did these “Dine for Camp Mount Luther” events, we decided to do one at Shade Mountain Winery. And thus, our fundraising evening at the winery was born. Our board of directors served as the initial “hosts” We’ve held 11 of these now and are looking forward to our latest one in early November.

So, we invite you to an Evening at Shade Mountain Winery, 16140 Route 104, Middleburg, on Friday, November 1, 2024, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. It’s always a fun evening of food, fellowship, and music.

Toni Gessner, our hospitality manager, will serve up heavy appetizers and desserts. Shade Mountain provides a complementary glass of wine. You bring your “fun” attitude and a few friends to complete the evening.

Space is limited and reservations are required. Please contact cml@campmountluther.org or call 570-922-1587 to secure your seat.

We do not charge a fee. The “cost” is a donation. All proceeds benefit Camp Mount Luther. We also receives a portion from all bottles of wine purchased that evening.

If you’d like to help us promote the event with your friends or your church, here is a flyer:  https://www.campmountluther.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/2024-Shade-Mountain-Flyer.pdf

We hope to see you there!