One of my favorite things to do on this website, aside from looking at pictures of myself, is to read through others memories of their summers in the woods. Any website that is proud to be home to an entry entitled “I think I was a Wookie,” has an intrinsic value that cannot be measured with existing technology. In my self-centered little world, I can sometimes forget that camp was firmly in place long before me, and continues on quite effectively today without my immediate presence. I am reminded by reading the fabulous stories of valor and wonderful tales of heroism that Camp transcends time, space and often basic moral decency. I have powerful and fulfilling relationships based almost solely on esoteric inside jokes that were conceived on the waterfront perhaps, and then cultivated to legendary status through careful retelling and deliberate repetition over these many years. Without these moments, my life would not be whole. I also enjoy the fact that there are others out there who share their own vivid, and sometime best forgotten, moments with all generations who have passed through Camp’s welcoming front doors. I originally wanted to share one of these with you, dear reader. I fear however, upon quiet reflection, that there are too many. Many’s the time that I thought that if I had more talent and could find a way to curb my superhero-like power of procrastination, I would write a book. This blog will have to suffice.

There was so much crammed into such a short time at Camp. I remember speeding through Surry, driving from the new Camp to the old with Boomer in the pouring rain. The top was down and there was more water in the car than on the outside. We were laughing so hard we were crying, the tears being lost in the driving rain. This was the same car that got me kicked out of Pipsico. (Pull up your socks!!!) Kicked out might be a bit of a strong description, they simply asked me to not return, at least not while behind the wheel. I had my junior prom in the old dining hall, because coming to an EYC event at Camp was much more important than remaining home to attend the actual dance. I had dinner in the bunkhouse and wore Gene King’s jacket just to add a touch of distinction and class. I finished the evening off smoking cloves in the Adirondack. Much better than any tuxedo laden, alcohol soaked prom.  I remember working harder than I ever have for the least amount of money and coming away with the greatest of rewards of any job I had before or since. I remember sitting in the river late, late at night during a change over, and seeing a mysterious light up in the woods that to this day has never been adequately explained. I remember, “Me not that brave!” I remember stealing all my neighbor’s clothes, and having mine pilfered in return. I remember campers getting me ready for the Miss Chanco contest and it not being weird. I remember losing to Mitch, who actually wore a bathing suit. Man, he was pretty!!! I remember Corona bottles making great candle holders. I remember fondly when the bugs stopped bothering me. I remember raiding the kitchen late at night for leftovers and laughing contests-RAINBLO!!! I remember Indian Night and understanding Eucharist for the first time with a hundred nine-year olds. I remember a waiting list for camp!!! I remember Mike Marina saying, ”Last time I saw that car, it was rolling backwards down the hill looking for a pinball machine,” and, “Rumple-who?”

I imagine I could spend all day doing this, but I want to save something for the Alumni Reunion. I am looking forward to seeing everyone for a big night of inside jokes and exaggerated stories, but until then, feel free to tease me with a little something here on the website. A little taste to tide me over in the meantime. Tantalize perhaps, but do not satisfy. Leave me wanting more! And keep in mind, embellishment is the key to good storytelling!

Until October, Tater

tater@chancoonce.com

PS. Feel free to drop me a line if you have any questions about the CCAA, the Alumni reunion, how you  can get involved, or even, and perhaps especially, quantum physics!