Between May 24th and May 28th, Team Pearlington sampled its upcoming summer by training at Miracle Camp in Lawton, Michigan, along with several other Experience Mission intern teams. Our team of four, consisting of Mark Shoemaker, Cheryl Knowles, Danielle Faust, and Cory Nussbaum, spent its time in intense training for both First Aid/CPR and Wilderness emergencies, reviewing the philosophies that lie at the heart of Experience Mission, and learning one another’s strengths and weaknesses.

One of the highlights of these five days was a scavenger hunt that finally resulted in the task of building a “boat” with a given amount of money. The set of rules required the boat to float for a rather lengthy portion of the lake and to include at least four different materials in its composition. Instead of picking the simplest, most practical items, we used this challenge as an opportunity to display our team’s creativity and style. Team Pearlington took the longest amount of time to actually build its boat, but the completed project was a masterpiece. Amid the laughter and doubts of other teams, the ship, perhaps surprisingly, not only stayed afloat the entire length required, but also left its passengers dryer than almost any other team. While creative and sturdy, this unique barge, originating from plastic tubs, ropes, wooden planks, and beach balls, was slightly less than aerodynamic, and posed quite a challenge for even the strength of team members Cory and Mark who pulled and pushed the ship almost the entire way.

As we worked together to complete the given tasks throughout these five days, Team Pearlington began to come together and feel united. Each of us noticed both strengths and weaknesses in the other members, something that will be key in leading a smooth summer in Mississippi. Each member left training curious and excited for a summer filled with challenges, learning, and new relationships.

Frank Teyechea, a longtime Experience Mission service project coordinator in Tecate, Mexico, has passed away at 60 years old.

Teyechea worked alongside Tecate residents helping them prepare concrete slabs and wood so the homes were ready to build when volunteer teams came down. Teyechea helped build hundreds of homes in the poverty-stricken community, and, appropriately, hundreds of people streamed in to pay their respects during a casket viewing.

“He had such a servant heart and was so willing to help others,” EM Executive Director Chris Clum said. “We’re really going to miss him. He really made a difference in people’s lives down there.”

Teyechea is survived by his wife Anna and their children Frank, Ruben, Roman, Cheyenne and Emily. His passing has placed an unfortunate burden on the family. Those wishing to support them in this time of need are welcome to send checks to Experience Mission, and of course 100 percent of any donated amount will be sent directly to the family.