Scenic view of trees at camp

Author: Karissa Pitaniello

Karissa Pitaniello Headshot

Karissa Pitaniello

Former Staff


Staff Profile: Josh “Flynn Slider” Green

by Karissa Pitaniello

Headshot of Josh Green, Ranch men

For Flynn Slider, Pine Cove has been more than just a summer job—it’s been a story of saying “yes” to where God leads. In this interview, Josh reflects on his time at camp, the lessons he’s learned along the way, and what makes the Ranch such a special place. Plus, he shares the wild story […]

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All About Springs Pro

by Karissa Pitaniello

A group of boy campers jumping and yelling at Pine Cove Springs, an elementary overnight camp in Toccoa, Georgia

Pine Cove’s newest program, Springs Pro, is set to launch at the Springs camp in the summer of 2025, and we couldn’t be more excited! This new initiative brings a fresh approach to the Springs—one specifically designed for high school-aged campers. We sat down with camp director Ben ‘Digs’ Gasaway to dive into all the […]

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Staff Profile: Kylie “Bonsho” Witcher

by Karissa Pitaniello

Headshot of Kylie "Bonsho" Witcher, women

Have you ever wondered how someone juggles elementary and college ministries while making time for Auburn football and the occasional Taylor Swift concert? This month, we’re diving into Kylie’s story of faith, humor, and unforgettable camp moments. Find out everything from her favorite skit characters to her funniest on-the-job mishaps! How did you get to […]

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Staff Profile: Micah “Whip-Flash” Howard

by Karissa Pitaniello

Micah Howard, Director or Pine Cove Chimney Point, an overnight family camp in South Carolina, with his wife

What do you get when you combine marathon training, wisdom-packed quotes from Teddy Roosevelt, and a camp name like “Whip-Flash”? You get Micah: a leader with an unmatched blend of energy, humor, and faith. Follow along as Micah takes us through his favorite Athens hangouts, his dad’s timeless advice on failure, and how God is […]

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Staff Favorites: Podcasts

by Karissa Pitaniello

Four members of the Pine Cove (a Christian summer camp for kids and families in Texas, Georgia, and South Carolina) full-time staff standing at microphones

This month, we’re diving into our team’s favorite podcasts! Whether you’re looking for thought-provoking conversations on faith or something fun and lighthearted, our staff has you covered. Some of my favorite faith-based podcasts are “With the Perrys,” “Ask Pastor John,” “The Elisabeth Elliot Podcast,” and the Austin Stone sermons! I also love “On Fire,” a […]

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Staff Profile: Faith “Tumbledore” Banford

by Karissa Pitaniello

Staff headshot of Faith "Tumbledore" Banford, Media Specialist at Pine Cove, a Christian overnight camp for kids and families in Texas, Georgia, and South Carolina

Meet Faith Banford, our talented Media Specialist who plays a key role in creating the amazing CampLife experience for you! Hailing from just outside DC, Faith isn’t just tech-savvy—she’s also a pro with pottery, CrossFit, and (hopefully soon) vans! You read that right. Get to know Faith and her many facets below!   Tell us about […]

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Staff Profile: Josh “Prankster’s Paradise” Bice

by Karissa Pitaniello

Staff headshot of Josh Bice, Director of Pine Cove Woods, an overnight family camp in Tyler, TX

Growing up immersed in the world of Christian camps, Josh ‘Prankster’s Paradise’ Bice developed a passion for camp ministry that led him to Pine Cove, where he is currently the Woods family camp director! Josh has journeyed through various roles at Pine Cove, from camper to full-time staff, all while growing in his love for […]

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New Full-Time Staff Round-Up!

by Karissa Pitaniello

A collage of headshots of Seth Tunstall, men

It is our greatest pleasure to introduce you to the newest additions to our Pine Cove program staff! They’ve traveled from all over to join our Towers, Outback, and Ridge teams. They’re sharing their seriously fun stories of how they got their camp names, some of their favorite things, and their passion for sharing the […]

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Staff Profile: Caleb “Sink or Swim” Howard

by Karissa Pitaniello

One male staff member, Timbers Camp Director Caleb Howard, smiling in a navy polo shirt standing outdoors with a lake and green trees in the background at Pine Cove Timbers, a junior high overnight camp in Tyler, TX.

Get to know your seriously faithful and seriously fun Timbers director Caleb “Sink Or Swim” Howard! Pine Cove has played a role in Caleb’s walk with Christ for over 15 (let’s count ‘em!) years now. Hear from Caleb below as he tells us more about his family, his experience throughout the years at Pine Cove, […]

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3 Reasons To Pack For Camp In A Trunk!

by Karissa Pitaniello

One male counselor wearing a maroon shirt carrying a camper

On opening day at camp, you’re sure to see some rectangle boxes flying around property! You might be thinking to yourself, “Self, what are those things? Can’t campers just use a suitcase or duffle bag?” We’re here to share with you three reasons why you might want to consider packing in a trunk (like this […]

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