Deschutes River Adventure Break photos.

Student Quote of the Month "It is so easy to get stuck in front of the TV and you start to get bored and lonely. It was amazing when I realized I could go outside. I was never bored or lonely during solo." Alumni Update "My son was accepted at Oregon State University (Bend), Prescott College and Sierra Nevada College. He chose Sierra Nevada College and starts classes next Monday....He has been working hard on his "stuff" and I believe he is happier than he has been in a long time." Alumni Parent (August 2007) Reflections on Graduation by Program Director Tina Hendrickson, MSW        A recent graduate, Drew, returned to wish his friend Daley well on his graduation. It was a grand celebration with family and friends gathered to mark the accomplishments of a student who had worked hard in his treatment.       Daley was surrounded graduates, family and a friend from home in addition to the staff and students of Santiam Crossing. Drew read a poem (see below) that he wrote for his friend that was both poignant and funny.       Therapeutic graduations at Santiam Crossing are times to remember the past and acknowledge the hard work of the student, family and the community that has helped pave the way to a brighter future. In this community, we celebrate the student's accomplishments while remembering the past as a means of encouraging continued progress forward.       I make time in my schedule to be at each student's therapeutic graduation as it helps me stay grounded and focused as to why we are here doing this work.Stumbling back from the Eagles plat after dark on a moonless night, just by recalling the highlights from past graduations or imagining those that are yet ahead, it helps me to find my way and to stay on the path. Daley's Graduation Poem by Drew E.        There was once a boy Daley, he thought he was hot, So he hit the streets and began smoking pot.      Then Daley quit school and sat at home all day, Where he cooked up some hot dogs and listened to Dre.      His parents said "ah, hell, no Skakeisha, no way and no how, You got to stop stealing, drinkin' and smokin' RIGHT NOW!"      They sent him to Trek, where he ate, slept and hiked, Then on to E2 where he rode horses and biked.      They said maybe Santiam Crossing will be the thing to work, And we get back our son instead of some jerk.      Well Wendy and Marcus, You've figure it out, Daley's chill, down to earth and respected, without a doubt.      So that is my rhyme, for Mr. D.S. So on with your life and I wish you the best. Labor Day Fun by Assistant Program Director Kirsen Rostad, MA      Santiam Crossing students took a break from classes on Labor Day and enjoyed spending time with their plat mates, participating in a community barbecue, a good-bye circle for a departing staff member, and a talent show. Trafford prepared a delicious barbecue of hamburgers and hot dogs for the community which we ate at Camp Morrison.       After the barbecue we formed a community circle and students and staff told memorable stories of the Wilderness Youth Counselor Staff Jenny on her last day. During the good-bye circle Taj, Bart, Graham, and Trafford shared many lessons they had learned from her. At the same time, Charis was busy making special necklaces for all of the dogs on campus. After the circle, we walked to the outdoor amphitheater and were entertained by Santiam students' talents. Many will remember Joe's impromptu songs on the guitar along with him walking on his hands. Hannah participated in a trio reenacting the "baby shark" song. In addition, Isaac shared a song he wrote while playing his guitar. All students and staff enjoyed the relaxing day.