Skylemar Blog

The top three times of the day at Skylemar:  Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

To the kids, it’s magic.  You show up when the bugle blows and poof!  There’s an elaborate buffet of entrees and side dishes just waiting to be eaten.  Of course we know where it comes from – the SkyKitchen that over the years has been recognized by the health inspector as one of the cleanest and most well-run in the state.  Plus the food is delicious!

There’s a large kitchen staff, because we recognize how important food is to a boy.   If we combine all the years that this group’s been working at Skylemar it comes to over 150!   Head Chef Junior is in charge.  He has three assistants: Juan Carlos, Superman and Mike, plus a crew of eight (Julio, Jonathan, Billy, Antonio, Avid, Byron, Jairo and Cesar) for food prep and cleaning.  Rich is our Food Service Director Emeritus, who has trained Blake to handle the daily ordering, amongst many other tasks.  RoseMaria, assisted by Jayde, are the dynamic duo of special diets, who make sure everyone with unique circumstances has exactly what he needs and enjoys.

For just one breakfast, the crew cracks 1,260 eggs.  While most chefs use a liquid egg product for such a large crowd, Junior is a purist.  He grew up on a farm, so only believes in the kind that you crack.  Some chefs might use fruit from a bag, but Junior insists on cutting the cantaloupe and honeydew melon fresh daily.  As for meatballs, most kitchens would buy them pre-made and frozen.  Not Junior – he makes them from scratch.  Before the kids even arrive, he and the crew spend days making 14,400 balls.

The quantities are staggering, and so are the costs.  For one dinner it’s 23 turkeys, 100 pounds each of potatoes and stuffing, but only 20 pounds of peas (not a fan fav…).  Served with that is 70 pounds of pasta for those who don’t care for Thanksgiving Dinner, plus 150 heads of lettuce, 200 each of tomatoes and cucumbers,  plus more.   $7K is the minimum cost per day to feed our guys.

Each year we get emails from parents asking for some of Junior’s cooking secrets.  For one, he’s a big believer in slow, moist heat.  For example, when he makes grilled chicken he undercooks just a bit, and then puts it in a warmer at 175 degrees for an hour.  A warmer equates to a regular oven with a pan of water on the bottom shelf for added moisture.  This way the chicken is never dry.

Here’s a few more tips:

Rice – Baking makes it perfect, and there’s far less sticky mess.  Mix boiling water and rice with a 2:1 ratio in a baking pan.  Cover and bake at 350 for 45 minutes.

Caesar Salad – Toss romaine generously with powered garlic.  Add homemade croutons and Ken’s Pepper Parmesan or Ranch dressing.  Toss in parmesan cheese.   This is much better than Caesar-flavored dressing, but you’d think that it was.

Croutons – Cut leftover bread cubes from French bread or hamburger/hot dog buns.  Toss with olive oil, and then powdered garlic and Adobo seasoning.  Bake at 350 for 10 minutes.  The guys love to snack on these too.

Preparing three meals is long, hard and hot.  In fact, it’s about 10 degrees hotter in the kitchen than whatever it is outside.  Nevertheless, our dedicated kitchen staff makes it happen with a smile.  They aim to please and we are grateful.

Fantastic news! The sun shined brightly today, and the weatherman promises no rain for the next six days!

There’s such a great vibe in the air.  Polar Bears are swimming, the Camp Championship Tennis Tournament is happening, and Leagues (competitive sports played within each Division) are in full swing.  The Fred Pierce Field is still soggy, but Hejduk Field at Sky II is totally dry and ready to go for Baseball and Soccer Leagues.

Interestingly, both of those fields, along with Snow Field, were named for our very special and much loved Maintenance Directors.  Fred Pierce was before our time, but Burt Hejduk, Rich Snow and now Ed Bartlett are some of the most brilliant, talented and highly skilled people we have ever met.

Ed’s day begins at 5 AM, with a daily test of the water system.  Then it’s on to vehicle checks and a morning walk-thru.  He needs to be sure that everything’s just right in over 50 buildings on 200 acres.  His Maintenance Crew of 14 wonderful workers must all be assigned to mowing, cleaning, repairing, building and a million other things that are involved with caring for Camp Skylemar.  How blessed we are to have such a loyal dream-team protecting this facility.

Tonight Ed and his crew set-up an amazing “block party” at Sky II, with giant inflatable activities that included bungee runs, slides, obstacle courses and blow-up sports.  The music had us dancing, and the snow cones were especially refreshing on such a warm night.  It was a true community feel, as our older guys played with those much younger, and vice versa.

There are things to look forward to every day at Skylemar.  Most important one of all is just being together.

A framed quote by the Dalai Lama sits on the office shelf.  It reads, “My religion is very simple.  My religion is kindness”.

We could say the same about Cool2Care at Skylemar.  It’s our guiding principle, almost like a religion.

But here’s the thing.  Just like any core value, it doesn’t mean that it’s followed all the time.  After all, we’re human.

In any one day at Skylemar there are five hundred examples of kindness and doing the right thing.  On the other hand, there are also dozens of times that someone forgets.

“Forgetting” means not being sensitive to the feelings of others… or just plain being not nice.  Occasionally it means losing a temper.    In order for a child to learn from his mistakes, at Skylemar he’s given the opportunity to fix them.

Taking this a step further…

As humans, there are things we could do, as well as things we should do.  Our hope is to instill the value of doing what you should do, as opposed to what you could do.

For example, you could load your plate with food, take a few bites, and throw most of it away.  But should you?

Or, if someone is treating another unkindly, you could join in.  But should you?

Coulds vs shoulds apply to everyone, not just kids.  For example, consider social media.  You could post something that’s considered offensive by others.  Perhaps it’s a negative review about a restaurant you just tried.  But should you?

The Sophomore Division had the opportunity to learn about coulds and shoulds today.  While on an overnight trip, these 12-year-olds misbehaved in a movie theatre.  Of course not every boy was throwing popcorn and not all acted disrespectfully.  But the poor behavior was definitely contagious, and the kids did not respond to the counselors correction.

So…Blake had the manager turn off the movie.  The boys cleaned the floor.  They apologized to the staff. And the rest of the trip was cancelled.

Once back at camp, there was a serious talk with the Division about coulds and shoulds.  You could act in a way that embarrasses others.  But should you?

From our point of view, we could have had no consequence and just continued on with the trip.  But should we have?

In the “fixing” discussion, Shep gave the opportunity for all to speak and tell their side of the story.  It was important for those who didn’t act inappropriately to be supported, and they did exactly what the world needs more of — they spoke up on behalf of what was wrong, and explained how things should have been right.

Those at the meeting who knew that they personally had mistakes to fix were invited to stay for an in-depth conversation.  The discussion included the four steps of an apology:

• First, you need to feel sorry about whatever happened.
• Then you need to apologize to all the right people.
• Next you have to do whatever it takes to prove that you’re sorry.
• The final step is to remember the mistake, and never do it again.

In our world, “proving” means to go the extra mile at being your kindest self.  Be the one who demonstrates how to do the right thing.  Have fun, but put on the brakes for yourself and others.  Always remember that shoulds matter more than the coulds.

Tomorrow we trrrryyyyyyy again.  We’ll turn the page and start fresh, remembering how much we love these guys.  Lots of learning every day.  After all, it’s for-real here.

The Tigers went to college!

Bunks 8, 9 and 10 went on an excursion to Lewiston, Maine.  First stop was the trampoline park which everyone loved.  Funnest part was that we had the entire place to ourselves.

Then on to Bates College!  Recent grads Blake and Malcolm took the kids to some special parts of campus, like the dining hall.  It was a different kind of all-you-can-eat buffet, which included everything from fast-food to Israeli couscous.  Most exciting was the soda dispensers where you could make your own drink out of a little bit of everything.   Food scientists in the making!

After playing games on the collegiate-sized turf, they were treated to a Q&A with one of the Bates lacrosse coaches.  Interestingly, even these 10-year-olds had questions for him about the recruiting and admissions process.  Up next was the Planetarium Show, which most had never experienced before.   For the counselors, the dark room with twinkling stars was especially relaxing.

Meanwhile, other groups were out on day hikes.  The little guys climbed Douglas Mountain, while those with legs a little longer hiked Bald Pate.  Both have spectacular views at the top… and blueberries to pick too!

The Lions went to Pineland Farms in New Gloucester.  It’s a 5,000-acre working farm that also has an education center as well as recreational activities.  They learned lots about cows and their incredibly gentle nature.  The boys also enjoyed the  tour… and some great ice cream too!

It was white-water rafting today for the Sophomores.  Exhilarating… and they loved it!  After a movie they settled in at their NH campsite for the night.

Here at camp we enjoyed a perfect Maine day.  It was good-mood weather and finally the schedule went exactly to plan… sport to sport, court to court and down to Trickey Pond.  We even fit in GACU, thanks to our wonderful nurses and the crew who ran The Spa.

Evening Activity was Magician Peter Boie.  Ours is a savvy and intelligent audience, which is not so easy for the average magician.  Luckily, Peter really can pull a rabbit out of a hat.  He’s also great at including lots of volunteers, who eagerly raise their hands to be chosen.  As you know, Skylemar guys are always happy to be a part of the show.

It’s a double-power shower for this camp director!  After hitting “publish” last night and heading to bed, Moose, our Newfoundland, found a skunk.   Luckily it’s a hot, humid day… perfect for bath after bath.

For our four-legged campers, Skylemar is dog nirvana.   Here they are lavished with pats, pets and belly rubs.  They spend the day mostly in the office and appreciate the many visitors who stop by throughout any one day.

Seven dogs make up Bunk 0.  Summit the Husky is stunning and gentle, and a bit aloof.  Given the opportunity off leash, she’d run to Philadelphia.   Finn is the jolly Golden Retriever, with a warm, friendly temperament.  Billy Bob, who’s a little of this and that, is the best behaved and sticks with Catie at the Ropes Course.

Cubbie, the black King Charles Spaniel, is the oldest and is blind in one eye. The kids ask questions about this, and show genuine concern. Her sister Trix loves to be held, so she’s definitely a crowd-pleaser with the younger bunks.  Moose, the now-stinky giant, is the leader of the pack.  She sneaks into the Pavilion occasionally, and “vacuums” under the tables.

Slugger is the toddler, which in dog years converts to the Cubs Division.  His attention span is “age appropriate”, and he’s the most interested in what Skylemar has lots of – balls.  Near the tennis courts he’s like a kid in a candy store.

Interestingly, the dogs seem to know whoever belongs here.  An occasional delivery truck is greeted with loud barking, but never the regulars.  Julian, the daily UPS driver brings treats, and the dogs get excited when he pulls in the lot.  Maybe dogs really can see the color brown.

The theory that gentle dogs are good for mental health is something we totally buy into.  Research shows that petting and interacting with a dog lowers the stress hormone cortisol, and increases the feel-good hormone oxytocin.  What we see here is that a loving dog is sometimes exactly what’s needed when someone needs any kind of a boost.

Tonight was the search for other animals around camp.  It was the Wild Game Hunt.  That’s when the counselors hide, and the kids have to find them.  Each is worth a certain number of points, and they can often be found in trees or under something.  Best spot we’ve seen was right out in the open.  A counselor got inside a duffle bag that was on the office porch.  No one gave it a second thought!

Parents are the most important people in the world to their son.  But no matter how hard they try, there’s one thing they can never be — a Skylemar JC.

Through the lens of a camper, the JC’s (which stands for Junior Counselor) are pretty much the coolest guys ever.  They’re Skylemar grads, who return in sort of a hybrid position.  They live together at Hilltop and spend part of the day playing sports with the oldest guys.  The rest of the day is spent as the “big brother” to a cabin of little guys.  They’re with them at meals, Rest Hours, Evening Activities and other times in between.  What they offer the kids is the best gift of all – their time.

JCs are fun.  Take tonight for example.  It was Campfire Night, but it couldn’t be at the Ring of Champions because of the rain.  Instead we were in the Rec Hall.  Cory was as amazing as ever with her “Princess Pat” and “Banana” song.  Aiden and Sarah were awesome on the guitar singing “Take Me To Church” by Hozier, and Adventure Man intrigued by teaching all how to make a poncho out of a trash bag.

But the super funny and impressive part was when the JCs were involved.  First, they did the synchronized swim skit.  You may have seen it before, where a blue tarp is held up and they pretend to be swimming in a pool.  But this was better than usual because they set up mattresses on the other side, allowing them to “dive” right in.  Everyone loved it.

Even better was the JCs “C2C Rap” that followed.  It went like this:

[Verse 1 – Malibu Fru]

Yo, gather ’round, Skylemar fam, let’s make it clear,

C2C, yeah that’s the motto we hold dear,

It’s cool to care for others, that’s our vibe,

Welcoming all, spreading love worldwide.

[Verse 2 – Jack C]

Teaching skills, we got it goin’ on,

Passin’ knowledge, makin’ bonds strong,

From archery to arts, we share the know-how,

C2C in action, watch us now.

[Verse 3 – Eli K]

Good manners never go out of style,

Holdin’ doors, lettin’ others smile,

Respect and kindness, that’s our stance,

C2C means giving everyone a chance.

[Verse 4 – Zach O]

Jake, Jack, Eli, we’re in the game,

But hold up, here comes Grant, bringin’ the flame,

As a camp united, hand in hand, (hold up the C2C hand sign)

C2C brothers, we make Skylemar grand.

[Verse 5 – Grant N]

Skylemar’s our home, we protect and cherish,

From sunrise to sunset, we never let it perish,

Caring for our camp, in every little way,

It’s in our hearts, every single day.

[Verse 6 – Burnie]

I’m Burnie, oh yeah, the campfire’s gettin’ hotter,

C2C spreadin’, like wildfire, not water,

Camp Skylemar, oh, it’s the place to be,

Cool to care, it’s our united decree.

[Verse 7 – All]

Cool2Care, Skylemar’s motto blazing,

Caring for others, for ourselves, and Sky fam’s raising,

JC squad up here standing with pride,

Spreading love and care our way far and wide.

So remember, Sky fam, as we ignite,

C2C in our hearts, shining so bright,

At campfire tonight, let the world see,

Cool2Care, the motto that sets us free.

Campers truly look up to JC’s, and this year’s group are outstanding role models.  Over the years they’ve been a group that has continuously made us proud, and we’re glad they’re back in 2023.

Sports Highlight

Over at the Hejduk diamond at Sky II, we hosted a 12U Baseball tourney that ran most of the day.  In Game 1 of their AM/PM double-header, our squad found themselves locked up in a scoreless pitcher’s duel into the last inning.  Sam P reached base to open the bottom half of the last inning, stole 2^nd, and scored on a walk-off, head-first slide a few moments later to win it for us, 1-0.  Both Cooper’s E & F were dominant on the mound throughout, combining for the shutout.  In Game 2, the offense came alive after falling behind 4-2 early, tied it up late, then were on the verge of the double-header sweep… until the threat of a storm ended our own threat (2 on, none out) and play was called at 4-apiece.

Very, very once-in-a-while does it happen.  If you’re lucky enough to have a birthday at camp then you get to do it.  For everyone else it was during the Lip Sync Battle.  Shep actually came up with the idea.

Yes, it’s true.  We got to stand on the table.

It was last night during the pouring rain while the air was really hot.  Therefore, it made the most sense for all of us to be in the open-air Pavilion for Evening Activity.  In order for all to see the dancers and singers, Shep moved three picnic tables together to become a stage.

Each Bunk got to pick a song, which they turned into sort of a music video.  Some were hysterical and some were just silly.  But one thing’s for sure: those on the picnic-table stage had a blast.  Pretty much every song had the entire audience singing along.  The vibe was all about fun.

More performances today, but this time it was the counselors presenting the show. The Staff Talent Show was fantastic, and we especially loved how the kids cheered for their own counselors.  There were musicians, comedians, jugglers, and dramatic readers.  Pretty much everyone truly had talent.

Counselors were also on stage for Clinic Commercials.  With temps in the 90’s, we watched from the shade under the trees  — advertisements for this week’s Clinic options included “Anybody Can Play Football” and “Dribble & Pass Soccer”.  “Boating and Bracelets” combines Chilltop with the Sail Dock for those who want to make a bracelet while out on a boat.  There was “Field Games & Low Elements” to challenge you down at the Ropes Course and “Volleyball not Newcomb” as well.  “Ski Dawgs” was open to all who want to improve their waterskiing and wakesurfing skills.  “Camp Championship Tennis” offers competitive play for every age group in preparation for our own Divisional upcoming tourneys.

Coach Jim will host a “Hockey Combine” for all to sharpen their skills.  Coach Mitch’s “Baseball Fielding Clinic” will focus on defensive play, both grounders and fly balls.  Coach Peter advertised the Swim Dock’s focus – “Racing Techniques at the Waterfront” – and a chance to break some records.  “SkyDines” (a cool combo of Sky Deck and Sky Pines) offers our youngest groups the chance to learn how to cook on an open fire. “Let It Rip Shooting” on the Lacrosse field will challenge laxers to beat Bryce’s 92 on the radar gun.

It’s the “British Open” here too on the Skylemar links, offering 5-hole matches in Match Play, Scramble, and Stroke Play formats!  “Hoop It Up”  with the greatest basketball counselors of all time if you “want to play like MJ, handle the ball like Chris Paul, or score in a flurry like Steph Curry.”   Over at “Gainsville”, the focus will be explosivity, endurance and strength…to get bigger, stronger and faster.

The choice is yours!

A little bit of Mary Poppins.  A touch of the Tooth Fairy.  A favorite Auntie.  The big sister you’ve always wanted.

That’s a Skylemar Tough Chick.

She’s strong, sharp, clever and beautiful, inside and out.  She’s gentle, kind and just who you need when a hug is in order.

It takes a very special lady to work at an all-boys camp.  First, you need talent and expertise in a particular area, like swimming or health care.  Then comes the important part.  You need to feel comfortable living in a boy’s world.

For instance, you need to understand when a lacrosse game takes precedence over play rehearsal or a hard-to-get orthodontist appointment.  You need to notice when a boy wears a shirt two days in a row, remembering that counselors are big boys too.  And of course you need to find just a teeny-tiny bit of humor in someone burping the ABC’s.

Cookie baker, jibit-buyer, bedtime story-reader.  She’s tough enough to clip toenails, clean up whatever’s nasty, and go through dirty laundry in search of a missing something.  And as you know, these guys are always missing something.

She’s who you turn to for solutions.  Need a shirt for an intercamp game, just minutes before departure?  Just ask any one of the SkyGirls, and she’ll make it happen.

They help even the most timid to feel comfortable swimming, creating and performing.  They have a start-to-finish attitude every day — set up, play, clean up, repeat.  They take pride in being an influencer, making a positive difference in the world, one boy at a time.

Our heroines put the kids first.  Always.  They help to make others look good and be their best.  For instance, the boys might not even know that three fairy princesses (Betty, Mary and Solana) appear while they’re on the fields and re-clean the bunk bathrooms.

When all are dragging because of the rain, the girls dig deep and bring on the positive energy.  They go the extra mile or whatever it takes to be a valuable, fun, loyal and much loved member of the Skylemar family.

So favorite SkyGirls, we love you forever.  You’re practically perfect in every way.

They’re here!  The greatest parents in the whole wide world!

Despite numerous plane delays and cancellations, and even though a local parade stopped traffic for what seemed like forever, 400-some guests made it to Skylemar today.  Those who were able to join us were treated to a running-leap-into-a-giant hug.  Love waves were in the air, along with the heat and high humidity.

Campers proudly showed off for those they love most on the fields, courts and waterfront.  The staff truly appreciated that parents were spectators while the kids played, so that the day could be as “sky-normal” as possible.

For those not able to join us, don’t worry!  Your son was adopted by hundreds and lavished with love as well.  In fact, a few told their parents that there’s no need to come next year – Luci gives presents.

We were impressed by those who kept up with the Skylemar pace, moving from place to place, sport to sport.  All were exhausted, but as you know, boys have a way of just going and going.  Every tear was dried by the time the guys climbed through the giant obstacle course, jumped across the “Big Baller”, and tried to “dunk” their favorite staff member.   It was back to regular camp life at the Drive-In Movie, except for some little guys who fell asleep right on the grass.

Thank you for coming, and for respecting the rules of Parent Visiting Day.  OK, maybe some of you broke the one about bringing no more food than can be consumed in two days (wink wink).

But no matter what, he and we love you, to the Sky and back.

If only the parents could see this.

It’s something we’ve wished for over and over.  In fact, that was the impetus for writing this Blog in the first place.  Our hope is to give you a peek into the world of Skylemar, without spoiling the magic.

There are things you’d see that would melt your heart, like when little guys cuddle up on the lap of a tattooed, brawny football player.   Or when the fifteen-year-olds interrupt Nick Shep’s lax announcement by yelling “shout-out Mel!” in support of a teammate who didn’t make it on the field, but who nevertheless cheered with all his might.

You’d feel proud each time he tried something new, especially without your suggestion.  It could be Waterskiing or the Zipline or being on stage doing a touchdown dance.

You might be a little bit appalled if you saw the shape of their cabin at 3:30 in the afternoon.  Then again, there’s no mom, dad or housekeeper to follow up, and this bedroom holds the stuff of 8 brothers.

On the other hand, in the morning you’d be impressed to see these guys making beds, emptying trash and cleaning a toilet (well, kinda…).  They come up with ingenious ways to handle these tasks, like sweeping with socks or pushing the dirt off the steps with a dustpan (that’s your kid, Lauren S).

You’d be astonished to hear with your very own ears a “yes, please” and “no thank you” from every single boy, over and over, as they approach each server in the buffet line.  For the most part you’d feel good about the choices he makes when it comes to food.   Maybe the pasta option is something you’d prefer not to continue at home, but then again, the salad bar rocks as long as there’s croutons.

For sure you would know that you raised him right if you watched him settle an argument, take up for a friend or make a full apology. You’d sit back and smile if you saw him filling our charity box with much of his Visiting Day treats.  He knows there are kids who don’t have what he has.

For those who are able, you’ll see just a little tomorrow at 10.  We do our best to make the day as “real” as possible, so kindly follow the schedule and enjoy watching your son.  There are a number of boys and counselors who don’t have visitors, so please refrain from going into the cabin.  It’s an “outside” day, rain or shine.

TODAY’S SPORTS UPDATE:

Tomorrow’s Visiting Day marks the halfway point in our summer season, and like Baseball’s All-Star Game, our participation in the Annual 15U Lacrosse Tourney has remained a Midsummer Classic.  This year’s players signed up early in the season as Coach Nick Shep began grooming his squad back when our 1^st weekly clinics program began.  Blessed with talent from California to Florida, this year’s bunch was determined more than ever to get back the title so elusive of late.  In the semi-final, our boys fell behind by 3 goals early before the Skylemar long poles (Defran, Jack and Zane) set up shop in front of stopper Jesse R , then watched the offense gel for a 7-3 victory.

The scoring continued as we opened the final by scoring the first 3 goals.  The enthusiastic bench buzzed with passionate support as unsung hero Mel did all he could to keep the sideline energized, and our eyes on the prize. Tosh was everywhere – winning faceoffs at the X, hustling, defending and vacuuming ground balls all over the field. The offense kept clicking ‘til late in the game when it was Jesse’s time to really shine. Up by just one goal with the clock ticking down, Jesse became a brick wall in the cage, rejecting several late attempts to draw the game even including, an incredible game-saving stop from point blank range with just seconds left to preserve the 7-6 Championship win!

Victory was sweet – the celebration even sweeter!  Armed with the title, the bus pulled into camp…the news had already begun to spread.  Like arriving home after a Super Bowl win, the team and their coaches were swarmed by the excited campers who sped to the Shack.  The team then suddenly, and collectively, sprinted down to Trickey’s rewarding waters and plunged on in.  The raucous celebration continued until finally, at the behest of his club’s incessant chants, Coach Nick quickly addressed the team from the dock one final time — and hurled himself in, capping off one for the ages.

The Pac-12,  Big10, Centennial and the ACC… these are the NCAA athletic conferences well-represented today in the 75^th edition of one of our most treasured traditions,  Intercollegiate Day 2023!  Just a few days ago the entire camp was divided into 5 institutions of higher learning – Arizona, Michigan, and Southern California, as well as Johns Hopkins and Wake Forest Universities.

A full day of events packed the day with fun and plenty of activities from the Snow Field to the Gaga pits, and everywhere in between.

After the morning inspection, everyone was called to the Bunkline field.  Nick Shep welcomed all, then introduced one of IC Day’s most anticipated events, officially opening the day-long competition – the Dash.  Each squad sent a sprinter to the line to run for glory – hoping to get his team off to a great start.  One by one, 8 exciting races were run, with a couple of photo finishes to boot. Arizona’s Henry M , Alan G and Semaj, Michigan’s Hunter S, Wake’s Alex Sw, Trojan Max P and Blue Jay Elias G all broke the tape to first to win their races.  Wildcat Grant proved once again that he’s the “fastest man in camp” by winning the Stars Division for the 2^nd year in a row!

Nick Shep’s redesigned program then had all 8 Divisions rotate through 7 different activities throughout the day, competing in mini round-robin style knockout tournaments ‘til a winner for each event determined, then moving on …including our newest addition to the IC Day repertoire, Pickleball.  The oldest guys even got to go at it in a couple of sports traditionally meant for the younger guys like Gaga and Steal the Bacon.  There were 3 v 3 and 4 v 4 half-court hoops games for the younger divisions, and full court runs for the older guys (Blacktop Hoops).  World Cup Soccer, Buoy Ball (with a few new twists including a Home Run Derby) and Newcomb/Volleyball rounded out the daytime activities.  Points were awarded for 1^st place thru 5^th, and scores cumulated all day long.

After a brief hiatus of a few years (and a break for lunch and another Songs and Cheers rehearsal), the ever-popular Golf Long-Drive Competition returned to the IC Day schedule.  All 5 teams gathered around the Rec Hall Porch and Pumphouse (aka the Water Park)  to watch the Seniors and Stars jumpstart the afternoon contests. Sam D won the Stars for the Arizona Wildcats, but didn’t quite catch up to Senior Champ Zane B who blasted the longest of the day for the Wolverines of Michigan before all headed back out on the fields and courts.

After the afternoon’s events were completed, Nick Shep tallied the scores, and announced at dinner that the Wake Forest Demon Deacons had become the team to beat, building a bit of separation between themselves and the rest.  The evening of Songs and Cheers was on tap to determine the final outcome, and the weather cooperated — a beautiful night of Skylemar spirit filled the air.

Each team’s leaders had put in plenty of overtime in advance, preparing a setlist of 5 Songs and Cheers (3 of which must be original) for tonight’s performance – Team Cheer, Camp Cheer, Team Fight Song, Old Camp Song and an Original Camp Song.  Michigan went first, followed by Wake, then the Trojans from USC took the stage.  The Blue Jays from Hopkins were next, and the Wildcats closed the performances.  The boys sung their hearts out… original songs were written to tunes from Billy Joel, Ed Sheeran, Run- D.M.C., Fall Out Boy, Zach Bryan, Ice Cube, the Beatles and more…There were solos and duets, a brother trio and a quartet. When all 5 colleges had performed, everyone “patiently” awaited (well, we squeezed in a boisterous rendition of “Paddy Murphy”) the final word from Judges Barney, Suzie and DT, tasked with the very tough job of deciding the winner.  It was one of the closest calls in years, and finally passed on their decision to Shep who delivered the news:

“The Winner of Intercollegiate Day 2023 —- ARIZONA!”

Lookout, Broadway!  Here we come!

Skylemar’s first big musical of 2023 was a smash hit… Madagascar!

Drama Director Suzie once again blew us away by getting a production off the ground in 10 days.  That includes casting, rehearsing, costuming, set design and choreography.  All this while working around the actor’s requirement to shower or their involvement with intercamp games.

Speaking of choreography – this was some of the best we’ve seen on the Skylemar stage.  Suzie’s assistant Grace directed these sequences, and  each was phenomenal.   Grace waved her magic wand and turned regular Skylemar campers into talented dancers!

The part of Alex the Lion was played by Hayes.  Marty the Zebra was played by Nolan B, Gloria the Hippo was Ethan V, Melman the Giraffe was Palmer.  Jake P (B18), Luke P (B6) and Cooper E (B18) were the zookeepers.  Penguins were Sawyer, Eli W, Max P (B14) and Jagger.  Mason the zoo animal was played by Keith O.  By the way, these guys can sing too!

There were lots of friends who had several small roles, and they had to come on stage at just the right time.  That’s not easy to keep track of, and this crew stayed right with it — Henry M (B2), KJ, Alexander D (B2), Owen B, Levi W, Eli D (B18), plus counselors Ant and D-Man.  We love that Suzie’s plays feature those of all ages.

The stage crew was brilliant as well.  Many thanks to Mary Beth, Calla and all who helped paint the scenery.  George H, Nate and Ryder handled the lighting.  The crew who set up each scene included Alex K (B6), Jacob K (B6), Easton, Myles F, Baron, Dash H, Alexander S (B8), Semaj, Turbo, Ethan K (B11), Balty, Asher, Jack M (B15) and Thomas L.

The Skylemar audience is always polite and supportive, and this one was no different.  They realize that the performers have worked incredibly hard, and that the brave ones were up on the stage.  No matter the size of the part, it’s impressive to be in a Skylemar production.  Next week Suzie and Grace will hold auditions for the Second Session show.  Wonder what it will be?

To have great parents means you win the lottery of life.  Each of us at Camp Skylemar is blessed with a jackpot.

No matter how many moms or dads in the household, there could be no one more loved than a Skylemar boy.  From tackling the daunting packing process, to the overwhelming task of completing numerous forms, Skylemar parents do everything in their power to help their son to succeed.

Skylemoms and Dads believe in the value of the gift of opportunity.   They see Skylemar as a solid practice ground for skills of a lifetime, like how to forge friendships, become independent, safe risk taking, resiliency and building self-confidence.

Our parents recognize that at times they are simply the equipment manager, and other times the coach.  It all can be tricky and often it’s easier to just “fix” the problem.  Instead, Skyparents know that there are lots of stumbles and falls in the journey of life.  What matters most is that you get up and tr-r-r-y again.

Thank you for seeing that there’s tremendous value in taking a break from the comforts of home, and instead having your son join our people-powered community.  The decision to send your son to Skylemar is one that we pledge to be your best.

Tonight the wonderful mother of a former camper passed away.   Of course we feel it deeply whenever there is a loss in the Skylemar community.  But back ten years ago when Ally V’s son needed regular medical attention, instead of keeping him home near his physicians, she did what many of you would do.  She packed her duffle and came to camp with him.

As our founder Lee taught us, we will always remember to remember that you have entrusted us with your most precious possession.  For this honor we are forever grateful.

You know that universal symbol that looks like taffy pulling with your hands?  It’s the way the director tells the news anchor to stretch out the segment.  Stretching is also what a camp director does during morning announcements, in hopes that the rain subsides enough for the kids to go back to their cabins for clean-up.

Athletic Director Mitch handled that masterfully after breakfast, while Shep was down at the lake working with a diver at anchoring some new giant inflatables.   Since all the intercamp games and other outdoor events had to be canceled, (it was some serious rain today), there wasn’t too much to talk about.  So…he called on Waterfront Director Peter (who happens to be a bird-calling expert) to teach us all how to sound like an owl.  Moose demonstrated some dog tricks in exchange for scrambled eggs.  Luci taught all how to wrap a towel around your waist after a shower in a way that stays tight — the secret is rolling at the top.   The #1 stretcher was Barney and counselor Ty “shadow boxing”.  It’s definitely the in-thing so far this summer, thanks to TikTok.  Check it out, because the game seems to be a part of being cool these days.

There was no stopping the rain though, so we moved right into a Rainy Day Schedule.  Catapult Making was super-fun in the Rec Hall.  Each boy worked hard on his popsicle stick model.  There was plenty of action in the Gym, and games of Pool, Ping Pong and Foosball in the Lodge.  Egg Dropping from the second floor where the Kitchen Crew lives was really exciting.   They wrapped eggs in bubble wrap and whatever else, to see what it took for the egg to land without cracking.  There were dozens of board games played in the Garden Cabin.  Several even helped Blake order food for the kitchen.  They’re now ready to be contestants on “The Price is Right”.  The Pavilion was a hot spot for Karaoke.   Kids singing Karaoke is one of the cutest things ever for an adult to watch.

On an all-out rainy day like this one we come up with all kinds of creative ideas for those under the age of 13.   It’s really important to get them out of the bunk, so that cabin fever (which leads to balls going through screens) doesn’t set in.  Instead of relaxing when it rains, energy seems to be at an all-time high.  On the other hand, our Seniors and Stars over at Sky II take advantage of the weather for plenty of napping or perhaps some weight-lifting over at the Gym.

Good food always helps to turn around moods when the weather doesn’t cooperate.  The special surprise was Make-Your-Own-Sundae Buffet in the afternoon.  The Stars Division did the serving, while everyone else filled their bowls to the brim with candy toppings.  Don’t worry – this only happens once a season.

Our dinner guests were sisters and cousins who attend nearby camps.  We invite them twice a summer, in hopes that the girls can come at least once.  Two hours is the perfect amount of time… just enough but not too much.

The heroes of today (and every day) are our Counselors.  Think about how challenging it is to be on vacation with the kids and it rains every day.  Or even just what it would be like to have 8 kids of your own in a one-room apartment.  What about that sleepover party you host just once a year, and all that goes into it?  Skylemar counselors host a party round-the-clock, every day and night.

When it rains, the workload doubles for a Counselor.  As you know, boys thrive with space to run and play outdoors.  When the weather throws a curveball, that knocks out the running and playing.

So, it was well-deserved break time for our team of super-heroes.  While the older guys had Socials, the rest of the kids got to watch movies in assorted areas around camp.  We hope that the pitter patter on the cabin roof lulls them to sleep with the happiest of dreams.

Sunday Signups! The whole camp gathers in front of the Rec Hall, while the counselors pitch “commercials” advertising what they’re offering for Clinic periods.  It’s fun to watch them perform, and exciting to learn about all the choices for the third period of the day for the next week.

Each camper makes his own choice.  There’s Tennis Applications, where you get to put your skills to use.  Swim Dock Beach Party, Street Hockey’s Back, Beach Volleyball and Forty-yard Dash Training.  There’s Sunfish Sailing, Baseball, Gainsville Upper Body Strength, 3D Archery Course and Recyclable Art…and Waterskiing & Wakesurfing, Fruit Dropping at the Ropes Course (yes, that’s dropping fruit from way up high), and the always popular SkyDeck Culinary Arts.  Reclaim the 15U Lax Title is open to everyone ready to work hard.  Shep’s Backlot Safari takes you all over camp to places you’ve probably never seen, like the Maintenance Department and the Farmhouse attic.  Exciting stuff!

It’s hard to believe that it’s been a week since the last laundry day and GACU, but here we are again.  Any staff member that works The Spa will forever be a bigger tipper at the nail salon.  Not easy!

Great news for the Waterfront!  The all-new Beast is back.  That’s our giant slide, which had to be replaced because a seam ripped.  Now we have a brand new one, along with something else to play on called a “Rockit”.  Stay tuned for photos once we try it out.

Boom Chicka Boom!   It was Campfire night at the Ring of Champions, and that’s a favorite song that Cory leads.  The skit that followed was especially funny this time.  Barney was in the waiting room of a doctor’s office, and while there he caught what every other patient had.   This meant he was sneezing, slapping himself and continuously singing opera.  Then a pregnant lady came in, Barney realized what could happen, so he ran.  It was good, wholesome boy-humor.  Another fun part of the night was Will doing a dramatic reading of “Bohemian Rhapsody”.  DT nailed the Burrito Song, while Sarah and Bri sang some Taylor Swift.  S’mores for all, and a practical life-lesson from our friend Adventure Man.

Rain is the forecast for tomorrow.  Not to worry – there’s always a plan!

It’s a refreshing way to jump-start the day – the Polar Bear swim!

62 campers from Bunks 1-14 woke up at 6:30 AM and made their way down to the lake.  The entire waterfront staff plus many additional volunteers saw that everyone was safe and comfortable for this annual event.

Trickey Pond is over two miles in length and about a half a mile across.  Polar Bears are the brave ones who swim across, from the Skylemar docks to Bunk 71.  Bunk 71 is the summer house on the other side, owned by the Finkelstein family.

Lifeguards swim alongside the boys, and counselors kayak right behind, just in case you need to hold on for a rest.   Once you get to the other side, Aaron and Leslie are there with donuts for the tired bears.  The motor boats bring you back over, all in time for breakfast.  A special surprise while heading back to camp was seeing a family of loons, who were clearly confused by so many people in their swim area.

The weather was pleasant – not too hot and not rainy, so pretty much every activity was played.  Nate C (B28) caught the biggest fish at SkyPines.  While many were enjoying baseball, tennis, basketball and lacrosse, others were tie-dyeing shirts or painting faces.  Bunks 4, 5, 22, 23 and 24 went Ice Skating in a rink that’s just 10 miles away.

There was no 6^th period, because we’re having company!  For these guests a shower was in order, or at the very least, a clean T-shirt…or maybe, just maybe a hair brushing?

Pouring out of school buses and vans came 200+ girls from Camp Fernwood.  It was our turn to host the annual event, and we were proud to do so.  Tonight Skylemar became more beautiful than ever!

At first it was a football field with Fernwood on one side… Skylemar on the other.  Everyone stared at each other, with equal amounts of whispers and giggles.  The ladies took a few steps towards the guys, and the guys took a few steps back.  Again and again, until our team ran out of space.  Not to worry – we were saved by the siblings, who each crossed the invisible border to join the other.  This broke the ice, and for the most part, you might say we became a co-ed camp, at least for a few hours.

Following a delish dinner, Counselor Karaoke was impressive and funny too.  Staff from both camps provided excellent entertainment.  Our guys cheered wildly when someone in the SkyFamily took their turn.  From there the Stars and Seniors went to the lake for boat rides and hanging out.  The rest played yard games, volleyball, badminton, tennis, mini golf, crafts at Chilltop, and some more singing.

Speaking of singing, we were reminded tonight about how much girls like to sing.  And giggle.  And scream.  No doubt, they’d win in a decibel contest.

In the end, even those who had little to do with the girls admitted that they had a great time.  The boys who were “lucky” proudly showed others that they had gotten a phone number.  Funny thing is, both camps don’t allow phone calls.  Then again, it’s more about the “win”.

Happy Anniversary, Camp Skylemar!  It’s our 75^th year of spending the summer with the greatest guys in the whole wide world.

Part of our summer-long celebration includes a giant brass raffle drum, with a ping pong ball for each camper and counselor inside.  Whenever Nick Shep takes over the microphone after the meal, everyone hopes it’s to pick a ball which correlates to someone getting a prize.  Tonight’s winner of Skylemar swag was Barrett B (B17)!

75 years sounds like a long time, but something happened tonight that’s a first in Skylemar history.  Here’s how it went down:

It started to rain during Spirit Night, so we moved into the Pavilion.  From there Nick described this week’s Cool2Care chain recipient as one who has always been extremely respectful, kind and cognizant of how to be a great Skylemar community member.  This week’s honor goes to Coop E (B18)!

Bunk 27 led Spirit Night, which started out as it traditionally does.  Athletic Director “DT” (Danny Thomas) gave the sermonette, and talked about what he was grateful for during his 9-year run at Skylemar.  He said, “I’ve learned many things from our fearless leader Shep.  One I remember is when you speak in public and have the opportunity to shout out to your significant other, you should.”

DT then offered a touching tribute to Luci, his best friend.   “We’ve grown so much together here at Skylemar, so I think it’s only fitting that we take this next step together, along with all of you”, he said looking out in the audience.

As he took her hand, the crowd responded with giggles of hushed excitement…. “Is he gonna?”…. “Whaaaat??”….. “No way!”…. “Oh my gosh….“ Is he going to?”…. “That’s crazy!” — and then….

He bent down on one knee, pulled something out of his pocket and the audience cheered so loud we could hardly hear him say it….”Luci Shepherd, will you marry me?”.  She said, “YES” and the crowd went wild!  Leaps into the air, high fives, hugs!!  It was as if they had all won the lottery!

Then came the engagement party — mini-pizza, mozzarella sticks, pigs in a blanket and best of all, Shirley Temples! Cheers to the happy couple!  Tonight was one of those evenings so energized with excitement and celebration, that we hardly remember the spectacular Maine day we had earlier.  The brilliant sunshine found activities going on from one end of camp to the other, and everywhere in between.  The magic waters of Trickey Pond may have been the most welcoming place to be, but that didn’t stop us from hosting three Intercamp round-robin tournaments here today (10U Basketball, 11U Tennis, and 12U Soccer) and sending out three other teams as well (13U & 15U Tennis and 14U Soccer).

In Tennis, highlight performances were turned in by Toby, Ari M, Nathan A, Will G, Jack L and Sconsett.

Both Hoops courts saw plenty of 10U action all afternoon.  Lance dominated the backboards in two games, and Elijah E played great D all over the court. Spencer O provided much of the offensive spark for our club.

Right alongside on the Hockey court, JJ kept us in the first game’s defensive battle with outstanding work in the cage.  Jordans G and H led an explosion on offense in a big 2^nd game win.

And finally, the 14U Soccer team continued to show marked improvement in just a few days of play under Coach Paul’s guidance. In the opening round, Elias G and Leo F led the way, then Leopold’s debut in the net and some great defensive work by Lucas V and Ignacio held a very tough opponent scoreless after allowing an early tally in a come from behind 2-1 victory.  Finley hit the upper right corner to tie it, and then Sherman scored the game winner midway through the 2^nd half for the win.

Definitely a day and night to remember!

Intercamp action has gotten off to a rousing start with contests in Soccer, Basketball, Baseball and Lacrosse.

Paul Harrison, our Soccer Director (well, Football in his world) arrived here direct from Istanbul where he cheered on his beloved, native Man City club’s Champions League title. His impact on the 15U team (and our entire Soccer program) showed well in their first games of the season.

In a similar format, our 14U Hoops team split a couple of very close games and showed that they too will be very tough to beat.

Our 13U Baseball club played a doubleheader – with the same mixed results.  Isaac C and Jacob R starred both on the mound and at the plate, where Noah K did the most damage with a bases-loaded triple to knock in 3 runs…before Bron closed it out by striking out the side.

You already heard of the 12U Lax tourney win, a very talented young group.  Coaches and teammates raved over the tournament’s MVP, Archie, who was incredible in the goal with 16 saves in the final!  When Coach Rook gave his report to camp, the Pavilion rocked with the Skylemar spirit that already has become infectious to our newest campers.

Trip season kicked off as well, with the Tigers traveling to the Ossipee Valley Fair.   It’s an old-fashioned country fair, with lots of things most of our guys would have never seen before.  For instance, dairy clipping (shaving a cow?!), a frog jumping contest plus all kinds of farm animals.  Sawyer and Harry FC won the egg toss!

Pine Cone Auction was the surprise Evening Activity.  Because pinecones only drop once every few years, there were none to pick up.  So…we tossed colored eggs all over the golf course.  The boys scrambled to find as many as they could, as well as some golf balls that needed to be shagged.  They were worth double, since tomorrow is a lawn-mowing morning.  Extra points for the “chicken dance” too.

The big 10-hour activity for this camp director and her fantastic assistant Cory was ACA Accreditation.  Once every five years, camps who are members of the American Camping Association have to meet hundreds of standards to demonstrate that we go above and beyond to be best in the country.  The process involves a dozen binders filled with written plans and explanations, on-site interviews and many hours of physical inspection.  This is nothing we have to do but is instead something we want to do.  Proud to report that Skylemar exceeded expectations and passed with flying colors.

We woke to a big yellow surprise in the sky.  The sun!

The boys hit the fields and courts with gusto.  The schedule went exactly to plan, with the perfect combo of land and water sports.  We don’t know how Barney does it so well.  It’s amazing how he orchestrates every minute of the day, which includes precisely where each of our 300+ people need to be…and when.

From the sunshine to the dedication of staff members like Barney, today we remembered to appreciate.  In fact, a group of kids in the Cool2Care Clinic made a special treat for each counselor.  It was a Rice Krispies treat decorated specifically for each.  They were given out after the Counselor Meeting was heartwarming to watch some of the counselors take a photo of what they received before it disappeared.

Several parents have asked about the best way to show counselors that they are appreciated.  In fairness to all, counselors, by contract, may not accept tips.  But what they can accept is an email or letter of gratitude.  These are read aloud at meetings, and it’s a tremendous moral boost.  If you’d like one to be shared, we’ll pass it along (arleen@skylemar.com).

Your camp director was especially grateful when the six school buses showed up on time to take the entire camp to the Sea Dogs game.  It’s one of the favorite nights of the summer, when the entire camp goes to Portland to watch the Red Sox AA affiliate  “play ball”!  Best part of all is just being together.

Skylemar’s pretty well-known over at the Sea Dogs home, Hadlock Field.  Most of the ushers have been there for decades, and they tell us that we have the reputation of being their favorite camp.  As you know, a little bit of good manners goes a long way.

Since the beginning of Skylemar time, kids have written home to “send candy”, even though it’s not supposed to happen.  For some, letters and postcards include tidbits about the Skylemar day, while for others it’s a simple “I love you” at most.  Every so often letters can be confusing.  Yesterday he wrote that he has lots of friends, and everyone’s nice.  Today it said the opposite.  Since 1948, some things haven’t changed.

What also hasn’t changed is the job description of a mom or a dad.  Although parenting styles differ, you will love your son to the Sky and back, more than anyone in the world, and there’s nothing you want more than for him to be happy.  An important part of your job is to listen, and feel good that your son uses you as a sounding board, in good times and not so good.

In terms of written requests, of course fads come and go.  Today’s ask is typically for Jibbitz and trading cards which are definitely back in style.  In terms of the news, here’s what’s hot for 2023 —  branding.

“I started my own brand” is a phrase that’s been used quite a bit lately.  “It’s called Over Armor”, one explained.  Jack Mc (B15) knows all about consistent branding, and whatever he designs must have a dolphin on it somewhere.

This clothing creativity takes place at Chilltop with Mary Beth.  That’s where the kids get to create really cool stuff, and the “in” thing to do is to decorate clothing.  T-shirts, bucket hats, bandanas, and other items that start out white before the boys embellish.  Soon Mary Beth will tackle what a kid loves most and teachers can usually do without…tie-dye.  Tying up shirts in rubber bands and dipping them in color is super fun!

Another fun part of today was actually about doing for others.  The executive director (Matt Hoidal)  of “World of Change” came to talk to us about his charity that’s geared towards kids helping kids.  Matt explains that there is 62 million dollars in coins that get thrown away each year.  If we instead collect these coins, just one jar-full can be turned into 240 meals for kids in need.

You may recall the Cool2Care change bags that were sent to the boys during the school year.  Many of the guys brought these to camp filled with quarters, nickels and dimes.  We combined all the money into one big bowl, and then each camper put a handful of change into the “Change The World Truck”.  Matt reminded us that we can make a positive difference in the world, one person at a time.

An extra fun part of today was watching fireworks at the lake.  The whole camp relaxed on the beach and docks, oohing and aahing over the amazing display.  Before things got started there was a boat parade, and the annual Counselor Belly Flop contest.

And finally, it’s always fun to be on a team playing a game against another camp.  But it’s especially great to win!  Congrats to our U12 Lacrosse team, who brought home our first Intercamp Tournament Championship trophy!

You probably read about it in the news.  All the celebrities and notables were there.  Even President Biden, along with his Secret Service of course.

It’s definitely the place to see and be seen…performers like Elton John, Luke Combs and Machine Gun Kelly.   Athletes like Mac Jones and John Cena, plus surprise comebacks like Barbie & Ken, Harry Potter, Dorothy, Buddy the Elf and of course, Elvis.

What makes it especially exclusive is that it’s only open one night a year.

It’s SADE’S PALACE!

Sade’s is a casino with rules.  For one, you must be under 18 to enter.  Hours are 7 PM-9 PM, July 3 only.  No need to bring money because everyone gets a wad of cash.  Most importantly, the house never wins.

There’s Wheels of Fortune, Blackjack and Roulette.  High-Low, Dice Games, Craps and Poker… and Checkers, Chess and Pick-a-Pig.  There’s a bank of slot machines that ring, zing and sing.  Fortune Tellers are on hand to only share the greatest news.

Also caught on camera this evening were Thing One and Thing Two, Sustainabatman, Lilo with Stitch, Buzz Light Year, T-Rex, some tacky tourists, a sloth, platypus, Juliet (but no Romeo), Guy Fieri and many more.

Need to grab a bite or wet your whistle? Jr’s Grill had a fantastic menu. There was root beer, pretzel rods and ice cream cups.

And, oh the music… Karaoke at its best!  Singing live tonight were customers coming from as close as Bunk 1 to as far as Bunk 30.  Regulars too, like Santa Claus, Angry Bird, Simba, Woody from Toy Story and several Spidermen.

This just in:  Elliot McG won the lottery!  Millions went right into the palm of his hand!

Where better to spend all the hard-earned cash than the SkyStore.  Here there are valuable trinkets to purchase, like blow-up balls, basketball hoops, yoyo’s and whoopee-cushions.  The selection was jaw-dropping.

By now all the true VIP customers are home safe and sound, snug in their beds.  By daybreak the Palace will have disappeared, but only until July, 2024.

PS  Many thanks to Holly, Suzie our Drama Queen and the celebrities (aka counselors) who were willing to make us all smile.

We are a soggy bunch, here in Maine.  Shoes make squishy sounds, and even raincoats are soaked through.  Nevertheless, there’s lots of smiles and laughter, as our tireless staff makes lemonade out of very wet lemons.

Making things happen, figuring it out, creating people-powered fun and blanketing all with love is part of the job description for those on our leadership team.  Made up primarily of teachers, coaches and those who work with children year-round, the Senior Staff inspires the counselors to be the best they can be.  They basically plan, supervise and help to execute every minute of the Skylemar day, and there’s no task they won’t cover.  They give hugs and advice, wipe away tears, shout cheers of encouragement and navigate the twists and turns of a day.

For example, we have an important goal of keeping Skylemar boys clean and healthy.  As you probably know from living with at least one, sometimes this is no easy task.  Plus, ours live in a ten-in-one-room, they need to change their own sheets every week, and in a boy’s mind there’s far more interesting things to do here than taking a shower.

So…

At breakfast today Senior Staffers marched into the Pavilion, dressed as warriors with a broom as their weapon and a trash can lid as their shield.  Barnicus, the Warrior of Clean (aka Program Director Barney) leads the chant with the kids – it goes clap, clap, “CLEAN”! clap, clap, “CLEAN”!

Barnicus explains that today is GACU, which stands for Great American Clean Up.  This is the weekly time when each cabin participates in a “trifecta of clean”:  Super Bunk Inspection, health check with the Infirmary, and a visit to “The Spa” for nail trimming.

Enter stage left comes the costumed character Laundrus Aurelius, leader of the Laundronites (aka Athletic Director “DT”).  He explains that today the Laundronites of camp must change their sheets and then put all dirty clothes in the magical bag that goes to the laundry service.  A chariot takes away the incredible bags and in two days they reappear with clean, folded clothes inside.

Meanwhile, as the rain poured steadily with no end in sight, director Cory was busy creating an indoor schedule packed with fun.  She delegates to the other Senior Staffers and NBC’s (Non-Bunk Counselors) exactly what activity each is responsible for, and then orchestrates the day like a symphony conductor.

There’s the Lego Extravaganza, Card Shark Game Show, Karaoke, Cookie Baking, and games at the Gym and Lodge.  Some went on a trip to Ice Skating in Bridgton, while others decorated t-shirts with Mary Beth.  Media Director Shannon welcomed groups to the WSKY Media Center, for green-screen video making with her staff.

The hardest working and most appreciated were the NBC’s & Sr Staff who ran The Spa throughout the day.  As the boys drank cucumber water and soaked their stinky feet in tubs of soapy warm water, the staff sat on yoga pillows as they trimmed nails on the Garden Cabin porch.  Since the boys over age 13 can do it themselves, that meant only 2,240 nails needed to be cut.

Like we said, this is a team that does whatever it takes.

If you want to see organic, all-natural Cool2Care stuff in action, come to a Skylemar Talent Show.  It’s an uplifting night that will do a heart good.

Certainly it takes nerve to perform in front of 350 people.  But on the Skylemar stage it’s more like singing or dancing in your own home with a bunch of brothers cheering you on.

The Seniors and Stars sit in the back, and they set the tone.  No matter who performs, whether actually  talented or not so much, the oldest campers lead the cheers and boisterous applause.  It’s a respectful and grateful audience, who encourages do-overs when a mistake is made.  When the performers get silly and laugh, we laugh too.

Anyone can enter, and there’s a solid showing from those in all age groups.  Whether age 7 or 15, talented or not, in the eyes of our audience each performance is amazing.  It’s a laid back and stress-free way to practice capturing a crowd.  Plus, each actor, musician or dancer gets to select a trinket from the Super Prize Bag.

Here’s how it went down:

Hayes and Max P (B14) did noodle battling while Asher played theme music on the piano.  Troy C (B1) demonstrated some outstanding dance moves.  He was awesome.  Jacob W (B9) screamed into the microphone.  Yup, that’s it.  Ryder’s magic act was the ideal follow-up.  He made water disappear by drinking it.  Oliver G (B8) drew a picture that the audience couldn’t see, but they cheered for him anyway.

Eli W (B9), Marco, Azim, Matthew R (B18) and David G (B12)  were all phenomenal on the piano.  Grady and Bud told jokes.  What do you call a dog with wings?  A dog with wings.  Speaking of wings, Judah did a back flip that amazed all of us.  Spencer O (B5) and Matthew M (B5) did a skit kinda-thing with a pretend punch.  Some things you just have to see with your own eyes.

Henry Z (B10) was extremely talented at burping.  LaJuan did the Rubik’s Cube.  Sawyer and Dash acted out some kind of military skit that we didn’t understand but loved just the same.  Keith (B22) did a circus dance.  Ethan V (B10) and Alex G(B23) each had an act that showed off their dance skills.  Really impressive!

Where else in the world would you see fruit surgery performed?  Actors Barron, Alex S (B8), Easton and Balty assured us that they weren’t real doctors.

Bunk 2 danced and sang to a song that they wrote on the first day of camp.  Counselors say they’ve sung it every day since, sometimes as early as 6 AM…

The Cool2Care Tally:

• Thousands of “yes, pleases” proudly said during meals.
• Hundreds of examples of kids being welcoming to others.
• Many times, people have picked up trash that they hadn’t dropped.
• Several notes of praise for others placed inside the Cool2Care Cooler.

And that’s just one week at Skylemar.

This evening’s Spirit Night begins by honoring a camper who embodies Skylemar’s Cool2Care motto.  It’s appropriate timing, because Spirit Night is when we gather together as one camp family, slow down the pace, and take the time to be grateful.

Tonight’s Cool2Care Chain was awarded to a camper who hasn’t had the easiest road since the beginning of camp.  Although he’s fine now, he was in the Infirmary with a virus for at least three days.  Nevertheless, he always had a smile on his face.  He has a glass half-full attitude, and even wrote three notes of appreciation to the nursing staff during his stay.  This 9-year-old camper taught us a lesson:

When you feel down, do for others and things will turn around.

In addition to The Chain, the recipient gets a jersey with his counselor’s college on the front.  This signifies that life’s successes are not just about yourself, but they are also about the positive role models you’ve encountered along the way.  “Goshen College” was written across the front of this one.

Congratulations to Jacob K (Bunk 6), the first C2C chain recipient for 2023.

As the camp sat on the front lawn listening and participating in Spirit Night, you could feel the love of brotherhood.  In fact, we’ve even become accustomed to greeting each other with a “secret” hand symbol.  It’s middle-and-ring-finger down with the other three digits up, which in sign language means “I love you”.

Camp songs, popsicles and positive wishes for those at home who gave us the opportunity of Skylemar.  We are the luckiest people in the whole wide world.

It’s true!  Today we did it.  We got to wear SUNSCREEN!

The boost of Vitamin D is exactly what we needed.  The schedule finally went exactly as planned, and this time we could enjoy Trickey Pond without a blustery drizzle.  The sun truly makes for a good-mood day!

Most eager were the Waterfront staff.  The 20-some member team, led by the world’s greatest waterfront director Peter Solomon, could now do what they do best – teach, inspire, and generate wholesome, wet fun.

When the kids arrive at the lake with towels in hand, they sit on the logs behind the “force field” (the red and white rope that determines if the Waterfront is opened or closed).  Peter divides them into groups, which typically rotate.  Some will go to boating, some to swimming and some to the ski dock.

Those headed to boating are greeted by director Paige, one of the kindest and dedicated teachers we know.  She and her staff show everyone how to kayak, canoe, SUP (stand-up paddleboard) and sail.  It’s especially empowering to know how to sail your own boat.

Swim Director Lexie and her amazing instructors are especially skilled at keeping lessons fun.  They get into the water with the kids, which helps those of all levels to feel most comfortable.   It’s not just laps with this team of collegiate swimmers.  They’re creative and teach in a way that kids don’t realize they’re being taught.  For example, they might challenge the group by having them make two baskets at Water Hoops, swim freestyle across the lanes, then swim the breaststroke to the trampoline, jump three times and go with the stroke of your choice back to the dock.

Perhaps the most popular side of the waterfront is the Ski Dock.  Here the boys learn to ski, wake surf, knee board and tube, all behind one of four motorboats.   Director Quinn and his fantastic staff encourage each boy to take his turn, and those waiting on the dock actively cheer for their friends.

To get up waterskiing for the first time is the kind of thing a person remembers the rest of their life.  To do so takes bravery, safe risk taking, listening skills and concentration.   The boat drivers and their assistants are extra patient, and are willing to let each boy try, try, try and t-r-y-y…again.  They too will get in the water or whatever to takes to make someone successful.

In skiing there’s a progression.  First time up is on the boom.  You’re pulled right up out of the water, so you get the feel.  Next you try short rope.  Once that’s mastered, you’re on to the long rope.  After crossing the wake, you might just try slalom.

First timers for 2023 include Matthew M (Bunk 5), Alex B (Bunk 6), Elijah E (B7), Luke P (B6), Spencer O (B5), Solomon (B7), Theo N (B26), Jack M (B7), Judah (B15), Alex G (B23), Levi F (B11), David G (B12) and Tim C (B11).  By tomorrow there will be many more.

Rumor has it…more sun for the next few days.  Bring it on!

The Daily Schedule:

There’s a brand-new version on each table every morning.  At first glance it looks complicated, but it’s an easy second language for any Skylemar camper or counselor.  Here’s how it works:

Across the top are the bunk numbers, 1-30.  Green means that one counselor is off.  Down the left side are the period numbers, 1-7.

If you happen to be in Bunk 11, you’d put those lines together and figure out that you have Hoops first period and Lax for second.  Then comes 3rd Period Clinic, which is the choice of Backwoods, Baseball, Challenge Course, Chilltop, Football and so forth.  Continuing down you’d see that Waterfront is 4^th/5th period, and 6^th period is Spikeball/Kan Jam.  7^th period choices are Baseball, Football, Gaga, Golf, Hockey and onward.  Super Game Show is for Evening Activity, and a happy birthday to Alex G and counselor DMan!

Now for the deeper dive, since there’s much more to know.  Starting at the top left, you’d see that it’s a Letter Writing Day.  Going across is information for counselors:  who’s off, who has Foot Patrol (the person who patrols the cabins and makes sure everyone’s where they’re supposed to be), and a “cheat sheet” for period start times.  The black bar at the bottom has additional staff assignments.

Counselors also need to scan each line left to right, to see when they’re working.  For example, first period is Waterfront for Bunks 1-6 and 8-10, and the names of the 20 counselors on duty are listed.  Same goes for each sport.

The bold black line in the middle refers to play rehearsal, as well as several other duties.  Below it is the Rest Hour shower schedule.

The beauty of all of this is that the paper is only for your perusal.  Each period is announced on the PA system, so that everyone knows exactly where to go without remembering anything.

You’re familiar with most of the activities, but here’s a few on this one sample day schedule that you may not know about:

Maine Wildlife Adventure – A trip to a zoo for animals that can’t be returned to the wild because they’ve been injured or orphaned.

Chocolate Factory – That’s where you make sweet treats for your own cabin as well as an older cabin.

Gainsville – Strength and conditioning with athletic trainer Nick of New England Fitness.

Chilltop – Arts & Crafts with Mary Beth.  Today the kids are making signs for the Portland Sea Dogs game coming up.

SkyPines – Overnight camping down by the water at Sky II.  Here the boys go fishing, play games, cook dinner on the open fire, and learn about the beautiful outdoors.

SkyDeck – Culinary Arts with Adam.  Each day a different cabin gets to make breakfast, and another gets to cook dinner.

Senior Special – The surprise on the 7^th period list of choices.  Tonight, Nick Shep had a radar gun competition.  Henry S threw the fastest pitch and Sherm had the fastest lax shot.

So there you go.  Now you’ve got it.  But look out, because tomorrow’s will be totally different!

No stars were above on this misty gray night, but we had our own.  The Stars Division is the oldest in camp (age 15), and we’re proud to have them as our leaders.  Together with the Seniors (14 year-olds), they live on the other side of camp at Sky II, and serve as big brother figures for those who are younger.

To be a Senior or Star and live at Sky II is something that most aspire to.  They have their own little “village”, with close access to tennis courts, The Gym and The Lodge.  Lights out is later, they get to go on “Night’s Out” in town, and best of all, they have “Happy Hour”.  That’s when the guys have the option for supervised hanging-out, or they can go to the lake for activities like wakeboarding, waterskiing, sailing, standup paddleboarding and kayaking.

At tonight’s Ring of Champion’s Campfire, Nick included the Stars in his annual introduction to Skylemar’s Cool2Care motto.  The concept is simple, and it’s what makes our world a better place.  It’s cool to care about being our best self and trying our hardest,  it’s cool to care about others, and it’s cool to care about the world around us.

Here’s what the Stars had to share with the rest of camp when asked for examples of what Cool2Care means to them:

• Doing the right thing when nobody’s looking…
• Saying “thank you” to those who don’t hear it enough, like the maintenance and kitchen crew…
• Picking up trash that wasn’t yours…
• Welcoming someone new to Skylemar as if he were your best friend…

The Ring of Champions is always a super-fun night, with lessons like this woven into the program.  Cory runs the show which always features classic and much-loved repeat-after-me songs (tonight was “60’s Party” and counselor Zach’s rendition of an old favorite, “A Roosta Sha”.  There are some hysterical skits like when Cory quiets the whole camp to near silence just to listen for a baby deer calling out to her mother —  then someone in the woods yells “Hey, Mom!” instead.

What’s a campfire without a “musical snack”?  Tonight’s was Sarah playing “All of Me” by John Legend on the guitar, and everyone sang along.  The other snack was s’mores of course, and then came a visit from Adventure Man.

Adventure Man, who sorta looks like Shep but dresses totally different, shares tips for surviving in the outdoors.  This time he pulled out his “Can of Calm”, and explained that this is what’s needed for a sticky situation.

Keeping our fingers crossed for no rain tomorrow.  The weather report indicates a 70% chance, but then again, that still means a 30% chance of sunshine.

It was as if the energy of 200 campers traveled up to the sky.  Maybe that’s where the “Sky” in Skylemar comes from.  And it definitely gave everyone something to talk about over breakfast.

It was a double cloud-to-cloud thunderstorm that hovered over us from around 3:30 AM until well past 5.  To start with the end of the story first…all is 100% fine.  No matter how the tale gets told, there actually were no trees down, no fires, no smoke, nothing terrible.  But it definitely was at least 90 minutes of FLASH-SNAP-BOOM which only a few slept through.

The lightning rods did what they’re supposed to do, and only the PA system and some computers were affected.  The electricity went out, but the generator kicked in.  Counselors were stupendous at comforting their boys, and fortunately, we were able to communicate with staff members through a text group.  Now that’s a good use of a cell phone!

By the time we sat down to cinnamon rolls, eggs, fruit, cereal, oatmeal and yogurt, the storm was a thing of the past.  After each meal we have what’s called “Announcements”.  That’s when Shep or one of the other directors talks about what’s ahead.  Sometimes counselors speak too, but today Suzie, her assistant Grace and camper Hayes N got up and danced.  The song “Move It, Move It” was a clue that the first musical of the season will be “Madagascar”.  All ages are invited to audition.

Next the music switched over to a song that we’ve all heard before, but couldn’t quite place.  As some pointed down the Bunkline, all eyes followed to see a masked hero riding towards us.  It was Sustainabatman!

Sustainabatman teaches us about caring for the Skylemar environment.  He urged all to use water bottles instead of disposables, demonstrated how to use the composting bucket for banana peels and apple cores, and taught us how to drink the leftover milk from our cereal bowls.  He invited us to join the Clean Plate Club, which means that you only take what you know you will eat.  Great stuff, Sustainabatman!

The foggy, drizzly, gray day switched us to a Rainy Day Schedule.  Bunks 1-14 played Flamingo Bingo – if you win you need to flap your wings.  Bunks 15-19 had Board Games in the Pavilion.  20-24 had Lodge Party, with pool tables, ping pong, foosball, and so forth.  Sky II had Porchtime with Shep, which is basically a time to talk and hang out with each other.

By afternoon, despite the wetness, these guys really needed to run.  After all, many were awake since before 4 AM but hadn’t had much time outside of a building.  The courts were too wet, but the grounds were fine for Mini-Lax, Football, Volleyball, Soccer Training, Gaga, Spikeball, Kan Jam and exploding soda at Yellowhorn.

Movie Night for Evening Activity.  Most of the camp watched “Minions: The Rise of Gru”, while the older guys watched their movie in The Lodge.  It was fun to be together, all spread out over the Rec Hall floor.  A happy part was the fresh popcorn and candy, which is a once-a-week movie treat.

More rain expected for tomorrow.  We’ll make the best of whatever it is!

Skylemar 2023 is off to a terrific start!  For the campers, there just aren’t enough hours in the day.  The younger half of camp woke at dawn, and couldn’t fathom why their counselors wanted to sleep till 7.

For the counselors, it’s kind of like having your first child.  But imagine if it were octuplets, and each happened to be at least 50 pounds.  Perhaps like you, they’ve read, studied and attended classes on how to care for kids.  You had nine months to prepare – they had two weeks.

Fortunately, Skylemar counselors are fast-on-their-feet, strong and resilient.  Yesterday’s explosion of energy has settled thick in the air, and it’s impressive to watch the staff match the enthusiasm of those half their age.   College students are super fun, and way cooler than any of us parents.

Since we know that boys are at their best when following routine, our programming structure is for the most part, consistent.  Each day has seven periods, five that are assigned along with two that they choose (three when they’re older).  This way everyone is exposed to each of our 40+ activities, while also having the opportunity to specialize a bit more in what they like most.  Counselors are challenged to keep their activity fun for those of all levels, especially because if you don’t feel good about your ability, then you don’t like the sport.  Keep it upbeat, have some patience, mix skill-builders with playing the game and anyone can be turned-on to a sport or game.

At any one time there were kids at the Waterfront, Football, Hoops, Tennis, Spikeball, Bocce, Soccer, Baseball, Golf or Lacrosse. Throwing (shotput today) was in the mix, and so was Archery, Pickleball, Ping Pong and Mini Golf.  Some of the activities may be new to you, like Gainesville (strength and conditioning), STB (Steal the Bacon), Chilltop (arts & crafts), Gaga (sort of like dodgeball below the knee) and Yellowhorn (science experiments).

There were plenty of firsts today.  For many it was their inaugural time in sparkling clear Trickey Pond.  Air temps were in the 80’s, but because the lake is spring-fed, the water’s typically…well…let’s just say “refreshing”. It does feel amazing once you go under.  Aquatics Director Peter and his outstanding staff assessed swim levels, and over on the Ski Dock, Director Quinn taught everyone the important hand signals for waterskiing, wakeboarding, tubing and wakesurfing.  Lots of splashing and play time came next.  First to get up waterskiing for 2023 was Theo N in Bunk 26.

Scavenger Hunt for Evening Activity.  Teams are a combo of old and young cabins, an ideal way for all ages to get to know each other.  The goal of the Hunt is to unlock six clues.  In order to do so, there are items you need to collect and questions that must be answered.  For example, to unlock one of the clues you had to tell Dr. Jeff a scientific name for the kneecap, find an item that’s name has a “q” in it, find a feather and figure out when was the Doc’s first year at Skylemar. The running around, laughing and cheering continued until dark.

Tomorrow it all starts again!

Kaboom!

If only there was a way to bottle the energy that exploded at Camp Skylemar today, we could fly a rocketship to the moon. It’s our kind of solar power, generated by gigantic smiles, genuine hugs and a million high-fives. No matter the overcast skies and a misty drizzle, even those miles away might have felt the joy radiating from Naples, Maine.

The greatest guys in the whole wide world have finally arrived!

Those coming to Skylemar for the very first time felt blanketed in love by the amazing counselors who trained for weeks in preparation for this exciting time. First-day butterflies flew away quickly as new friends became family, and old ones picked up right where they left off, 364 days ago.

Bunk assignments were shared, and the boys dashed to their cabin. It felt amazing to come home to a freshly made bed alongside those who were soon to be brothers. After a tour around camp, it was time for the traditional first night meal…spaghetti and meatballs. It took 70 pounds of pasta, mounds of Caesar salad and 120 loaves of Chef Junior’s famous garlic bread to feed this hungry and happy crowd.

We all came together for Evening Activity in our favorite building, the Rec Hall. Shep bellowed “WELCOME HOME” to the exuberant crowd, and the counselors were each introduced. The boys cheered heartily, especially for their own, and the vibe was ecstatic.

Day is done, and all is well. For this camp director, it’s the greatest feeling of all time.

Goodbyes can be tough, but they’re a whole lot easier when you know you’ll be seeing each other again.

Take today for example.  Our first session friends departed, but it warmed our hearts to hear the guys talking about next year already.  In the Skylemar World, time goes incredibly fast.  A day equals a week, a week equals a month, and a month equals a year.

Tomorrow, Parent Visiting Day, is one where many of us will re-unite with loved ones.  It’s guaranteed to be an emotional day, with the highs of seeing each other again, as well as the lows of separating.  The great news is that like with those who departed today, we know we’ll be seeing each other again soon.

A number of kids will not have visitors tomorrow, and their Saturday will nevertheless be filled with Skylemar fun.  In fact, the day is actually designed with them in mind.  The boys will play together as always, with the difference being that a couple hundred others will be watching them show off.

We know you’ll respect the guidelines we have in place, which include staying out of buildings except for bathrooms.  Your son of course can go in and out of his cabin as always, but we ask that you kindly remain outside.

Please take a look at the email sent out tonight which explains how the day is planned to go.  Above is a photograph of the schedule, which will be distributed in the morning.  Your son’s cabin number is at the top, and below that number are the activities that you’ll be watching.

Just like every year, there will be boys who cry at various times, and some who may even plead to go home.  That can be especially tough for a parent to see or understand.  In fact, some of our counselors who are former campers were once upon a time that sobbing boy on Visiting Day.  If you ask them today the best thing that happened then was, they’re parents left, we had a Carnival, and all was well.

Can’t wait for a happy day!

Quick question — Who are Willie the Wildcat, Bill the Goat, Buzz the Bee, Testudo the Terrapin, the Sooner Schooner and the Demon Deacon and what could they possibly have in common?  Stumped, are you…?  It’s an easy one for any in the vicinity of Naples today, as the decibel level reached new heights and was heard all over Skylemar and beyond today.  Answer — These are the 6 team mascots of the college participants in the 2022 edition of one of our oldest traditions – Intercollegiate Day.

The school spirit actually began rising a few days ago when Grand Marshall Nick Shep announced the randomly selected teams that would compete for this year’s IC Day “trophy”.  The boys were separated into 7 “classes” (our usual divisions), starting with our youngest “students” — the Cubs (Bunks 1-6) and Tigers (Bunks7-9), then the traditional college hierarchy of Freshmen (Bunks 10-14), Sophomores (Bunks 15-19), Juniors (20-23) and Seniors (25-28), and finally our post-grad class, the Stars (Bunks 29, 30 and JCs).   The 6 “halls of higher education” chosen by their counselor leaders to battle it out in this, the 74th version of this very special day — Northwestern, the US Naval Academy (Navy), Georgia Tech, Maryland, Oklahoma and Wake Forest Universities — were well-represented in a daytime filled with athletic events followed by the nighttime performances of each school’s “Songs and Cheers” (rehearsed for a few days in advance) to determine the overall IC Day winner.

And here’s how the day played out….

The morning routine, from reveille to breakfast to inspection just like always…until all participants were called to the Snow Field, where each team staked claim to their spot on the overlooking bank.  Most kids proudly wore school colors or face-paint, and team banners waved proudly as the overlapping cheers created quite a morning buzz…the Wildcats, Midshipmen, Yellow Jackets, Terps, Sooners and Demon Deacons were ready to rumble!

Nick Shep settled the crowd, then set the scene for IC Day’s official opening event – the Dash, one of the most celebrated of all IC Day activities.  Class by class, the sprinters from each team were called to the starting blocks – 7 exciting races run in about 10 minutes time, with nearly each resulting in a photo finish — 5 of the 7 races really did need a quick replay look from our top-notch camera crew just to be sure of the winner! Maryland put its stamp on the Dash with 3 wins – Alex S (Cubs, B4), Max P (Tigers) and Boden (Sophs) crossed the finish line first for the Terps.  Both Myren (Freshmen, B12) and Sam (Senior, B26) raced to glory for the Wildcats, and Wake Forest’s Elias (B22) was the Juniors champ. To close the event, all lauded Oklahoma’s Grant as he nipped Navy’s Ethan K at the wire to prove he’s “the fastest man in camp.”

Once complete, the boys began a rotation through 6 different athletic activities, moving by class to venues all over camp. Gaga and Steal the Bacon, two events revered by our littlest guys, may have been the most popular activities, especially for the older guys who maybe thought they’d outgrown them.   Both Gaga pits were busy all day as each class competed in a fast-paced, round-robin mini-tourney to score points for their teams; same for Steal the Bacon, played down on the Snow Field, where the Cubs showed that it’s still their game!

Our own legendary Skylemar creation, Buoy Ball, was as popular as ever. Simultaneous action – think baseball with a buoy (bat) and rubberized, oversized “tennis” ball – on both the Middle diamond and Fred Pierce fields saw plenty of great hits and bare-handed fielding gems from all classes.  Power & Finesse was an updated version of an old Skylemar favorite, Lightning — the soccer “knock-out” style game that keeps everyone “in it” (even after apparent elimination) with a chance for reinstatement on every shot taken or save made.  Passing, shooting, and goalie play kept all participants in constant revolving motion.  Nick and his crew also converted the new mini Fiddlestick lax field into another volleyball court just above the existing beach volleyball court.  Again the dual action of simultaneous, round-robin, “knock-out” games in both Newcomb for the younger guys and volleyball for the Upperclassmen presented a showcase of excitement and boisterous support heard all over.

And in Blacktop Hoops at the BBall court, there were 3on3, 4on4, and 5on5 tourneys in most divisions, but just after lunch, Mother Nature dropped in with an early afternoon rain delay when the Seniors were scheduled. The courts slicked up a bit temporarily, so Nick Shep quickly changed course (and the game) to “Hot Shot”, a timed, speed-shooting skill event that built a rather large crowd of spirited onlookers.  Speaking of Mother Nature, her brief appearance did sink the “Sunken Boat Regatta” scheduled down at Trickey, but that didn’t stop the rest of the afternoon from giving all a chance to participate in all other planned activities.  It was a fantastic day of fun, competition, sportsmanship and team spirit – the hallmark of this long-cherished Skylemar favorite. Everyone looked forward to the evening activity, Songs and Cheers, which would ultimately decide our IC Day winner.

After dinner, the schools headed off to their final rehearsal.  The time and effort that went into tonight’s performances started long before today.  Each team’s counselor leaders have been working for weeks picking music, writing lyrics, etc. in preparation for tonight’s show, but they then must somehow, after just a few days of practice, have a group of about 40 boys learn the words and music, and perform their 5 song set (Team Cheer, Camp Cheer, Team Fight Song, Old Camp and Original Camp Song) on the Skylemar stage.  And that they did.  The teams gathered in front of the Rec Hall and one by one, under a beautiful moonlit sky, each team sang their hearts out.  The setting was just magical, and the sounds of Skylemar tradition echoed from each and every performance. Judges Barney, Matissi, and DT were tasked with the final word, and all waited for Shep’s proclamation of the 2022 Intercollegiate Day winner – Northwestern University!

For the first 50+ years of Skylemar, we had the most wonderful drama director who was adored by all:  Craig Gerhard.  He had a way of making the theatre “cool”, and even the most unlikely were willing to give the stage a try.  As a builder of confidence, Craig inspired many to pursue careers involved with public speaking.

When he passed away, we thought there could never be another drama director strong enough to carry Craig’s torch.  It’s a tough job to fill at an all-boys sports camp.  There were a few who did their best, and the program continued.  But not much compared…until 2012, when along came Suzie Hepker.  It’s as if she was sent by Craig.

Suzie is the goddess of the Skylemar stage.  Extremely talented in her own right (she’s an incredible singer and dancer), she’s a phenomenal theatre director who understands and celebrates Skylemar boys.  Not only does she miraculously produce two musicals each summer, but she also runs Evening Activities, birthday parties and a million other things around camp.

Here’s what’s miraculous — Suzie does it all!  It starts with her promoting auditions and keeping them casual.  You simply sign up for a small, medium or big part.  From there she takes care of the casting, directing, choreographing, costuming, set design, scenery …. and basically anything else.

Best part of Suzie is she keeps it fun.  Her patience is heroic, especially with a cast of very short attention spans.  She limits rehearsals to who’s in a specific scene and understands that an intercamp game might take priority for a lead actor.  Somehow, she puts it all together at the dress rehearsal – the one and only time the show is done from start to finish before the performance.  Then, voila! It’s opening night!

Tonight’s performance of “Newsies” was terrific.  Lots of hard work and dedication was put in by Sawyer, Ethan V, Nolan B, Owen S, Luca F, Hayes, Charlie L, Jagger, Elie D, Cooper E, Eli W, Palmer, Max P, Teddy S, Jonathan F, Keith O, Xander and Kyle Y.  We’re so proud of these guys!

What Suzie and the audience understand is that a Skylemar performance is really geared towards the performers.  When they have fun on the stage, we have fun in the audience.  We get a kick out of the actors giggling… or when they forget lines and someone whispers the cue, forgetting that he’s on a microphone.  It’s ok if we can’t hear or don’t quite understand the story. We’ll clap, cheer and whistle just the same.

In fact, watching the audience is fun in itself.  Overall, they’re respectful and do pay attention.  But after all, they’re boys.  And they’re brothers…

So, the little guys up front pop up and down throughout.  One needs a drink… another, the bathroom.  A few are asleep.  One does log-rolls on a blanket.  Many climb on counselors or the older guys.  Sometimes we see the older guys eating seeds or candy, which they’re not supposed to, but it’s ok once in a while to let them get away with something innocent.

Through all of this, Suzie perseveres with a smile.  She, and the cast of “Newsies” are our much-loved Skylemar stars.

“Cool2Care” is the motto we strive to live by at Skylemar.  But never will we be so smug as to think that all is blissfully perfect.  In fact, it’s quite the opposite.  In any one day there are petty arguments about fairness or going first, someone overreacts at a game or in the bunk, or a camper fails to “stop” when others ask him to do so.  One guy is “annoying”, and another doesn’t listen.  Someone says something that is interpreted as “mean”, while another says he was “only joking”.

So it goes when you live together as one giant family.  But here’s the best part about a “Cool2Care” world.  You get second chances.   Just about always there’s a chance to fix a mistake.

We call it the three steps to forgiveness.  First, you feel sorry for whatever you did that upset someone.  Then you say that you’re sorry, which can be the really hard part for a boy.  And finally, you do something to show that you’re sorry which includes not doing it again.

Not a foolproof method, but apologies are powerful.  Every boy should have the opportunity to master the art.

Another side of “Cool2Care” is what you do when nobody’s looking.  You see, caring really isn’t about trying to win the chain.  It’s about what you do, just because….

It’s the simple things that add up to more.  For example, because they care to do the right thing, every single person in the food line says “please” and “thank you” to each of the servers.  That’s eight pleases and thank yous per meal.

Everyone matters and plays an important role at Skylemar.  Palmer didn’t think twice about helping the kitchen guys carry in the food.  A little guy asked one of the maintenance team if they wanted to play basketball.  Best of all, he played.

So, for the handful of moments of forgetting to care, there are 101 times in a day that we do.

Whoever said that parenting is the hardest job in the world has yet to be a camp counselor.

As complicated as it is, you do typically get nine months of prep time to be a parent. The child that arrives weighs just a few pounds and is perfectly content to eat and sleep.  In the years ahead there’s quite a bit of getting-to-know-you time, plus plenty of breaks for school and visits to grandma’s.

On the other hand, a counselor gets a couple of weeks training and then BAM, he’s the parent of septuplets.  He lives with his family of eight in a one-room house, and even shares the same bedroom and bath.  That bed isn’t a queen or a twin – just the same skinny mattress as everyone else.

Not only does he need to keep the house tidy, but he does it with all the kids still in the room.  He nags about clean clothes, teethbrushing and showering, not just for one, but for all in the family.  The kids must make their beds daily, a feat which most parents would never attempt.

In addition to “stay at home parenting”, a counselor goes to work each day as teacher.  With little time for planning and preparation, he must be creative and able to switch gears depending on variables (like personalities, skill levels and attention spans).  Any time in between classes is spent tending to his own brood, cleaning up messes, drying tears or giving piggy-back rides.

Most astonishing is that counselors prove that it really can be done without a screen.  No Netflix or Minecraft.  No YouTube or Fortnite.  Just a good old fashioned deck of cards, a chapter book to read nightly, maybe some board games or a basketball hoop.  But what’s a game without a referee?  Counselors find that there are always petty disputes to settle, rules to establish and ways to make sure that things are fair.

Like a parent, a counselor takes tremendous pride in his boys.  When his “summer son” makes the winning goal, sings the solo or gets up skiing, he beams like never before.  On the other hand, a counselor shares the same frustrations and thinks what we all think…oh, if he’d only listen.

By the end of the season, a counselor has a skillset that you might want to take note of.  His management and communication skills are superb, he can juggle multiple tasks, his problem-solving abilities are extraordinary and his dedication to the mission is unquestionable. If you’re in a position to hire, keep in mind that this is your guy.

Skylemar counselors are our heroes, and for this we are grateful.  Thank you for being brave enough to undertake the hardest job you’ll ever love.

Sparkling blue skies and a warm breeze today!  It was the kind of summertime weather that Maine is best known for.

The kids were still talking about last night’s Staff Talent Show.  It was a really fun time, and campers were especially proud of their own counselors.  There were singers, dancers and so much more.  Myke of Bunk 11 recited a poem that he wrote, dedicated to his campers. Jackson of Bunk 25 played the autoharp.  Do you know what that is?  Tommy of Bunk 7 juggled toilet paper rolls, and others juggled invisible balls.  DRC whistled and Rob did 100 pushups in under a minute.

Most touching part of the night was when Cory and Suzie sang “Skylemar You’ll Linger” at the piano, with Mary Beth signsinging along with them center stage.  It was a perfect way to end a happy night.

Intercamp update:  14U Hoops and 12U Lax.  We won lacrosse 12-10, with Archie causing at least five turnovers.  On the courts, we fought hard but lost the first game in OT, then took the second impressively in a 25- point blowout.  Michael H was the MVP, energizing the rest with great effort and leadership on the floor.

Exciting new Clinics for the week include “Ryder Cup Competition” at Golf, “Tournament Play Tennis” and “3 v 3 Basketball”.  Shep’s “Skylemari Safari” is a backstage tour of Skylemar.  They get to see the maintenance department, kitchen and other interesting spots.  15U Lacrosse has our top coaches preparing the boys for a big tournament coming up. Cutest part of this one is that Henry from Bunk 1 signed up.  He understood that it’s for older players, but he wants to hang with the big guys.  He’ll be the perfect mascot.

Those who select SkyDeck will be making Southeast Asian cuisine.  “Upcycle Projects” at Chilltop include robot and musical instrument-making.  The Ski Dock offers a “Mastery Clinic”.  It’s for guys who are working especially hard on taking the next step in the progression.  SkyPhotos is the place to learn about taking, editing and organizing photos.  Harry from Bunk 30 will help to lead that one.  “Defensive Baseball” is all about fielding ground balls and shagging fly balls.  There’s “Great-Plays-to-Run Football”, Card Games, Low Ropes, Soccer Juggling, “STB Hockey” and “Ultimate Sportsman”, which is about foraging and cooking food outdoors.

Once again the choice is the hardest part.

Deputy Brown, our local police officer, joined us for dinner.  He spoke to the camp reminding all that if someone ever needed assistance here or off camp, he and his team was here to help.  Afterwards, he met with kids who had individual questions, especially about the 30 pounds of gear that he needs to wear.

During the meal came a Cool2Care moment:  We had brownies for dessert, and Spencer S asked Nick to make sure we saved enough for the kitchen crew.

SkyPines Overnights are always a hit.  Each night a different bunk gets to spend the night at the Sky II Waterfront with Sid and Sam.  They come either by foot or canoe, carrying their sleeping bags and backpacks.  After fishing and snorkeling as the sun sets, it’s time to make dinner over the open fire.  It could be a stir fry or grilled cheese hand pie.  S’mores for dessert of course.

Sid and Sam always have lessons about the outdoors to pass on, as well as stories to share around the campfire.  There’s something about staring into the flames together and squeezing into a 12-man tent that reminds us of the brotherhood we have going on here.  Truly extraordinary.

Legend has it that the waters of Trickey Pond may be magical.  From our point of view, they most certainly are.

Considered one of the cleanest bodies of water in the state of Maine, Trickey Pond is our precious gem.  Fed by underground springs, Trickey is about two miles long and half a mile across.  The water is deep (50’ in the center) but is so clear that it looks like you can touch the bottom.

Skylemar’s the only camp on the lake, and our side is protected by over a mile of trees between Sky I and Sky II waterfronts.  It’s just us and some wonderful neighbors, who’ve all grown accustomed to the sound of Skylemar bugles telling them when to wake, eat and go to sleep.

Because Trickey doesn’t connect with other lakes, there is very little power boat traffic.  It’s mostly our four ski and wakesurf boats, plus the fishermen out catching salmon, trout and bass.  We’re especially proud that the Maine Department of the Environment has awarded Trickey Pond the highest water quality designation.  It’s clean enough to drink, so that’s exactly what we do.  Our extensive filtration system assures that drinking water is delicious and healthy, and we test every day just to be sure.

Yes, the waters are magical.  Just jump in and all your troubles are washed away!   That’s because Skylemar’s Waterfront is the place for fun!

Gia, Chas, Blake, Quinn and the rest of the staff run a well-oiled machine.  When the boys arrive for a double period, they’re divided into groups which rotate between swimming lessons, non-motorized boating (sailing, kayaking, canoeing, standup paddleboarding) and the skidock (waterskiing, wakesurfing, wakeboarding and tubing).  Of course there’s always swimming for fun as well, which includes jumping on the Trampoline, climbing and leaping off the Iceberg, flying down the the Beast (the giant slide), bounding off the Rope Swing or diving off the Pontoon.

Beginner swimmers become very comfortable in the water, thanks to a patient and caring staff.  Those who are more advanced improve their strokes, with the guidance of instructors who are also collegiate swimmers.  As mentioned, the water is deep — from 8′ within the docks to around 30′ out beyond them.  Therefore, we all wear lifejackets when playing on the inflatables.  That way a novice can have just as much fun as a friend who’s advanced.

The staff on the Ski Dock work their magic too.  Any camper willing to give skiing a try is guaranteed to get up.  They start on the Boom, just to get the hang of it.  Then next to the short rope, then onto the long one, and off they go.  Part of the fun is being on the dock encouraging friends.

In addition to skiing, the guys especially enjoy Wakesurfing.  It takes a special boat to create a giant wake for surfing.  For most it’s easy to get up on the wake board (but this camp director is still working it), and it’s especially exhilarating when you can drop the rope and surf as if you’re at the ocean.

The past two mornings were Polar Bear Swims.  That’s when you wake up before everyone else, head to the lake and swim across.  Lifeguards swim with you, and kayaking counselors help if you need a lift.  On the other side is Bunk 71, the Finkelstein house.  Yummy donuts await, as well as a motorboat ride back across.

What a great way to start the day!

What are the three most popular times of day at Camp Skylemar?  Breakfast, lunch and dinner.

How’s the food?  Most reply with a one-word answer.  “Amazing!” or “Awesome!”

Ours is “boy food” for sure.  Simple, plenty of it, and sauce always on the side.  It’s a giant all-you-can eat buffet, which includes a hot entree, side dishes plus the good-old-dependables:  pasta, Wowbutter and jelly sandwiches, fruit and a delicious salad or yogurt bar.

The day starts with an assortment of cereals, fresh cut fruit, oatmeal and yogurt with toppings, and a hot entrée of either pancakes, scrambled eggs, waffles, French toast sticks, breakfast burritos, cinnamon rolls, bagels or sunrise sandwiches.

Chicken tenders (the really good kind), tacos, pizza bagels, steak subs, grilled cheese and sliders are some of our favorite lunches.  Dinner is always something delicious like Skypotle (thanks for the idea, Chipotle), Thanksgiving dinner, Jr’s famous grilled chicken, pizza, spaghetti and meatballs, wings, fajitas, lasagna and Cookout (burgers and hot dogs).

Quantities are astounding.  For a single meal it takes either 21 turkeys, 270 pounds of chicken or 75 dozen eggs.  For lunch alone, Chef Mike cuts 60 cucumbers, 120 tomatoes, 5 cases of lettuce plus many pounds of other fresh produce.  Before the kids arrive, the kitchen staff makes and freezes 12,000 meatballs from scratch, because it takes 1,600 per meal.  Certainly, we could buy them ready-made, but our team of chefs are far too particular for that.

What does it take to be the camp with the five-star kitchen?  The most wonderful culinary team in the whole wide world.  It’s a group of professionals dedicated to making every boy happy, and they’ve been with us for a combined total of over 80 years.  Not only does Junior, Benjamin, Carlos, Superman, Mike, Adolfo, David, Bryon, Januel, Jairo and Cesar prepare a feast three times a day for 350 people, but they clean up as well.

As a matter of fact, the Sky-kitchen has the reputation for being one of the cleanest in Maine.  Just ask the Health Inspector!

PS  Hosted the much-anticipated, always exciting 10U Steal the Bacon Tournament today.  Three camps participated and the Skylemar sportsmanship and spirit showed the way — our guys worked hard and once again, brought home the bacon – 2022 STB Champs!

We’re ba-a-a-ck!  It’s been 1,076 days since our last intercamp game (July 27, 2019) and today we rocked!

13U Soccer here at home on the Hejduk Field.  We were down 2-1 at the half, but that was before Coach Eric gave his motivational speech.  Then we stepped it up and ended with a 6-2 victory!  Goals scored by Diego, Max F, Archie, Lucas V and Pelayo.  Other outstanding players included Ignacio, Spencer M, Alex S, Nick P, Bode, Noah K, Max N, Bobby C, Noah L, Ayan, Eddie R, Zane, Jared R, Cosme, Leo F, Charlie F, Holden F. and Gavin K.

15U Hockey brought back a victory as well!  They traveled to a nearby camp and won with intensity, 7-2.   Coach Jake’s report: “Jack P opened it up, Isaac G locked it down, Sam DF was a beast all day and Jacob R was dominant.”  Shout-outs also to Charlie P, Holden W, Leo T, Bob, Tosh, Michael H, Jonathan S, Austin, Grant N, Soren, Cole D, Aaron P, Alex B, Jack C and Zach O.

Meanwhile, the Cubs had a trip of their own.  It was Bones’ Fire Station Bonanza!  They had a full tour of the Naples Fire Department, which was super interesting.  Even the counselors were fascinated. They especially liked seeing all the vehicles, learning about the Jaws of Life and watching how the station operates.  And of course they especially liked the stop at the ice cream shop afterwards.

Juniors and Seniors went Ice Skating at Bridgton Academy.  That’s a boarding school about 10 miles away from camp that has a nice ice rink.  It’s especially fun to have the place to ourselves.

Pine Coneless Auction for Evening Activity!  It’s an annual tradition for the younger half of camp.  Problem was, this time there were very few pinecones to be found.  Some years we have them everywhere, and other years not.  Scientists say this has to do with the previous winter.  If there was a good amount of rain, the tree can focus more on growth and less on seed production.  Conversely, a dry winter means more pinecones.  What we’ve seen for ourselves about pinecones is that sometimes they fall annually, but other times they go for years without touching the ground.

Anyway, instead we tossed plastic colored eggs all over the golf course while the kids weren’t looking.   Thousands of them.

Captain Chicken blew his airhorn, and they were off gathering up their medium of exchange.  When the collection time was over, they pooled their eggs together by Division.  Cubs, Tigers, Freshmen and Sophomores then bid on whatever party they would like to be a part of.  For example, the Tigers won a pizza/movie party in the Garden Cabin.

Almost forgot…we had a visitor today:  Matt Hoidal, the Executive Director of “World of Change”, along with his “Change Truck”.  WOC is a non-profit that empowers kids to make a positive difference for less fortunate children through the collection of loose change.  Matt explained that there’s 62 million dollars in coins being discarded every year.  When that money is donated to “World of Change”, 100% of it goes towards helping kids with housing, food, school supplies and so forth.

One of the ways our guys can help those in need is to donate leftover spending money that Camp dispenses when on a trip.  For example, many of the boys contributed their leftover Seadogs change.  Our hope is to inspire Skylemar campers to be involved with “World of Change” after camp as well.

We’re slo-o-owly testing the waters of the world outside the Skylemar gate.  It’s been a long time (since 2019) that we had vehicles moving in assorted directions throughout the day.

One of the silver linings of the pandemic is that we had no choice but to slow down a bit and depend more on togetherness and creative fun at camp.   This summer we’ll keep this in mind, while also adding some off-camp adventures now and then.

For instance, today we took Bunks 3, 10, 20 and 21 to Sebago Lake State Park.  Although Trickey Pond is by far our favorite, this area of Sebago Lake has a sandy beach and shallow water for tossing a football or Frisbee.   It’s fun to go with cabins of assorted ages, which gives the older guys the opportunity to role model for those younger.  Best of all…there’s a snack bar.  Everyone gets $10, and there’s something about spending it alongside friends that makes it more fun.

Bunk 30 went golfing at Bridgton Highlands Country Club.  The Club’s about 15 miles away and is perfect for those who have become proficient. The weather today was absolutely ideal.

It was an academic trip for the JC’s.   They toured Bates College and met with a fabulous admissions director who happens to be the mother of Cam in Bunk 1, and the wife of Mike Seltzer, Skylemar’s Sports Performance Director.  Mike is the Strength & Conditioning Coach at Bates, and we’re fortunate to have him at Skylemar too.  We also have some top-notch staff members who are Bobcats, like Lowell, Avery and Blake.  Not that we’re plugging the school or anything…

Bunk 18 went on a day hike to Pismire Bluffs.  It’s a comfortable 3-mile trail with incredible views of Crescent Lake.   They came back feeling especially good about the great outdoors.

Here on camp, it was a Cool Tools day.  That’s when Bruce, one of the most brilliant and fun men we know, teaches the guys about hand tools.  Today they were making wooden spoons which is one of those things we never think about how it’s made.

Drive-In Movie Night for Evening Activity.  The whole camp gathers on the hill side, with Crazy Creek chairs or sleeping bags.  Fresh popcorn and candy (aka “canteen”) go hand-in-hand with the show.  It’s a late night, but a happy one.

Nothing says Skylemar more than The Talent Show.

32 brave performers, some with talent, and some not so much.  No matter what, the audience cheers wildly after each act.

The rain brought us into the Rec Hall, with the Seniors and Stars in the back of the room.  They’re the ones who carry on the tradition and set the tone:  performers first, audience second.  With or without talent, those on the stage are shown respect and support.   Even if it’s a magic trick that no one can see…

First up was Jagger, who asked for two volunteers.  That’s the cue for just about everyone to raise their hands straight up and give the “Oooh oooh” noises that annoy teachers.  The volunteers blindfolded him and he painted abstract art.

Ethan V dazzled us with his breakdancing.  Seeing him beam with pride at the end was the very best part.  Xander danced as well, and also shared the “how to’s” with everyone.   Keith O did a dance dressed as a hotdog.   Charlie P juggled, and Jacob W played the drums.  Both were super cool!

Nolan B sang “Raise Me Up”, and Luke P sang “Old Town Road”.  Hayes dedicated his performance of “As It Was” to his mom.  Carter S sang “Panini”, and JJ did a freestyle rap based on the color green.

Sprinkled in throughout the real talent were those who, shall we say, were more “artistically creative”. KJ contorted his body into a bridge and walked backwards.  Brooks did imitations of Kermit the Frog and Mickey Mouse.  Palmer did his version of Forrest Gump, Homer Simpson and Tom Cruise.  Oliver G drew a picture called “Plateau Sunset”.  Magicians were Luke BR, Bronner, Eli W and Barron.

What’s a talent show without marshmallow tossing?   Max P and Asher covered that.  Nate C rolled around in a bongo bag (we told you they were handy), while Iggy, Max and Pelayo juggled a soccer ball.  Isaac F swallowed a sword, which was actually quite impressive.

There were skits we didn’t understand but laughed just the same.  Afterall, the performers were having a blast up there.  Sawyer, Dash, Henry G and Palmer’s skit was called “Boxing Comedy”.  Ryder and Ainsley put on “Epic Fails”.

Bennett S and Henry Z can burp like you wouldn’t believe.  Henry is even capable of speaking while doing this.  Most extraordinary was Lionel, who has a full repertoire of armpit farts.  Oh, to live at a boy’s camp…

Fourteen-year-old Kyle YA once again truly blew us away with his dance moves, as he has for the past few years.  His performance of “Beat It” would make Michael Jackson proud.   He might just have what it takes to be professional some day.

Those who played the piano really do have tremendous talent.  Asher, Azim and Charlie L each played beautifully.

The one who made his camp director tear up in emotion was Matthew R.   He played “Piano Man” as if he’d practiced for months.   The special part came when Matthew began singing the verses into the microphone.  He took over the room with his strong voice, and everyone responded with the chorus.  The kids waved their arms in the air and swayed back and forth.  It was one of those many Skylemar moments to cherish forever.

Great parents are game changers.  Our guys have won the lottery on this one.

Not saying this to flatter the readers, but instead to point out how incredibly fortunate every boy at Skylemar truly is.  You are there to support, encourage, guide and catch him when he falls.  Perhaps some folks may be guilty of “over-parenting”, but nevertheless, there could be no person in the world more loved than a Skylemar boy.

The fun part of the parenting job is to watch your son flourish and grow, as he takes advantage of the opportunity you have provided.  While he’s away at Skylemar, it’s a treat to hear him brag about getting up waterskiing or the friends that he’s made.   It feels especially rewarding to know that here he’s mastering skills in relationship building, independence, decision making, and safe-risk taking.

The not-so-fun part of the parent’s job is to be the “dumping ground”.  Boys need a place to put their feelings, whether happy or sad.  That’s where you come in.

When the road gets bumpy within the culture of childhood, it’s hard as a parent to resist the urge to fix.  The best advice we’ve heard came from 13 year-old camper Marcus (name changed to protect the wisest) whose mother was concerned about his cabin placement.  He “dumped” on her about his nervousness, so mom understandably wanted to get involved.  But Marcus wisely declined her involvement and instead said, “Mom, I’ll figure it out.”

Figuring it out, or FIO as we call it, is one of the casualties of the pandemic.  While isolated at home in front of a screen, our boys were denied the opportunity to be physically accountable to those outside of the family at home.  Their brains were deprived of practice sessions for managing feelings that we know as adults will eventually go away, but to them it may seem daunting.  For example, take a sleepover party.  Experiencing the jitters of going to someone else’s house for the first time, or conversely the disappointment of not being invited, are uncomfortable feelings that get easier with practice.

Our hope at Skylemar is to help our guys catch up a bit and make up for some of that lost time.  For us it’s about doses of good old-fashioned fun, chances for redos and safe risk taking, plus lots of love along the way.  We’ll throw in some make-your-own-sundaes and fireworks on Trickey Pond, and he’ll never suspect that he’s learning.

Eureka!  We found the solution!  It’s a bongo bag!

Perhaps you’ve noticed that boys are challenged by getting dirty laundry into a bag.  But give them a bongo and it’s a game of yucky-sock basketball.  Every Sunday the bongo gets emptied into a magical bag that gets taken away in a big white truck.  Then, “Poof!” – it comes back clean and folded a couple of days later.  Cool part of the bag is that it opens on the side like a suitcase, so all stays folded when you put it away.

Sunday Signups too!  This week’s Clinic offerings include:

• Baseballenstein Baseball Pitching & Hitting
• Bigger Faster Stronger at The Lab
• “Newsie’s” Props & Scenery Making
• Hoops Shooting with LT & Crew
• Robin Hood Archery
• 3 v 3 Hockey Tournament
• Peanut Butter Jelly & a Baseball Bat Reading
• 15 & Under Lacrosse
• Money Shot Golf
• We Say Marco, You Say Polo at the Waterfront
• Steal the Bacon
• Pick & Eat Cooking at SkyDeck
• Soccer Scrimmaging
• 1-on-1 Football
• Big Bertha, Sail Boats & Kayaks
• Shelter Building at SkyPines
• “Aaaaaah” Tennis Serving and Playing

Finished off the day by taking 350 people to the ballpark.  It was the Portland Seadogs vs the New Hampshire Fisher Cats at Hadlock Field.  We sat together, proudly wearing our Skylemar colors.  Quinn B caught a foul ball, and we were featured on the giant screen singing “Sweet Caroline”.  The kids loved the snack bar, especially because whatever you ordered came inside a batting helmet.  Sea Biscuits were the traditional favorite.  That’s two really good chocolate chip cookies with ice cream inside… puts the standard Chipwich to shame.

Following the Seadogs win came the dazzling fireworks.  Amazing!

Best part of the night for this camp director was hearing what another patron had to say: “You can pass on the word that this old guy thought you were a well-behaved crowd.  I’d go to a game with you anytime.”

It’s quite an accomplishment to get 200 boys showered every day.  From their point of view, why shower if I’m going in the lake?  From the Skymom’s perspective, we want to make it happen.

Power Shower Hour is on the schedule daily, and each bunk has a specific shower location.  Every Friday is GACU, and that’s when we really shine.

GACU stands for Great American Clean Up.   It’s the triangle of clean:  first you shower, then you go to the Infirmary for a health check, and then finally, to The Spa.  “The Spa” is Skylingo for “go to the Garden Cabin Porch to soak feet and get nails clipped”.  Giving pedicures wasn’t included in the job description of a Senior Staffer, but our amazing team takes it all in stride.

Funny thing about this.  A prospective parent called to say they heard a rumor that we had a spa at Skylemar, and they wondered if it was true.  If so, we were a little bit too fancy for them.   It’s all in a name, right?

Leagues kicked off with Football, Softball, Soccer and Basketball.    That’s when you play competitively within the Division.  It’s a double period and the intensity is strong.

In addition to a schedule packed with sports, Remote Control Cars were a hit with the little guys.  Bet they’d be popular with the oldest too.  Chocolate Factory is another unique activity that everyone loves and is one of the ways older and younger kids get to know each other.  The scheduled bunk makes chocolate treats for themselves as well as the older cabin of their choice.

First up for FaceTime calls were the Cubs and Tigers.  It was heartwarming to watch the guys show off their Skylemar home, friends and counselors with the iPads.  Cutest of all was when Lionel and Bennett held up screens and introduced parents to each other.

Campfire at the Ring of Champions for Evening Activity!  100% authentic, wholesome, organic and natural fun.  Cory, the greatest campfire leader of all time, starts with the repeat-after-me-do-as-I-do song called “60’s Party”.  Your son will have to explain this, but trust that it’s a riot to see all ages wriggling, dancing and doing the motions.  Next, Barney did a dramatic reading of “My Money Don’t Jiggle” (something on TikTok that the kids seemed to know but their camp director didn’t).  DT led the “Burrito Song” and all joined in.  Counselor Coby played “Wagon Wheel” and we joined in on the chorus.  Super cool was the impromptu linking of arms over shoulders, without any adult telling them to do so.

After s’mores, Adventure Man arrived with his “can of calm”.  One of the interesting things he taught us was how to make a stretcher out of sweatshirts and sticks.

It was a beautiful night, and you could feel the brotherhood.  It sure is good to be us.

Cha-ching!  Cha-ching!  It’s Sade’s Palace!

The place was crawling with millionaires, wallets fat with Skylemoney.  They came from as far as Sky II and as close as Bunk 1 for a rousing night of gambling.  Blackjack, Craps, Roulette, Poker and Wheels of Fortune.  Slot machines too!

The rules of the casino are strictly enforced.  You must be under 18 to enter, and at Sade’s, the house never wins.

Truly the place to see and be seen, VIP special guests (thanks to the counselors, JC’s and Suzie’s costume attic) included Tom Cruise, Indiana Jones and Santa Claus.  Aladdin, Jasmine and the Genie came, and so did the Goddess Athena and a Foot Locker employee.  There were some tacky tourists, a prom queen, flapper girl and Draco Malfoy.  It was a pleasure to welcome the cast of “The Golden Girls” (aka the world’s best nurses found only at Skylemar), and we were especially proud that President Biden attended along with his security detail.   Did you know our Pres is a phenomenal tennis player?

There was Karaoke in the Garden Cabin Porch Lounge, while George’s Bar served up frosty plastic cups of root beer and pretzel rod cigars.  A fortune teller gave each patron a magic red fish, used to forecast the future.   Artists twisted glow sticks into spectacular creations, affordable for even those who’s luck had run out.

Just before closing, The Bank opened up.  There you could purchase a plethora of trinkets and toys, including the ever-popular suction-cup basketball hoop.

Congratulations to Bode Goodman for winning the lottery!  His life will be forever changed since he then had enough to buy 10 inflatable balls.

And thank you to all the grandpas out there who taught our boys how to gamble.  You see, it wasn’t even our idea….

Cool2Care.

It starts with a story told by Nick Shep.  It was late August in his freshman year as a lacrosse player at Dickinson College.  During a pre-season captain’s practice, Nick wasn’t putting out much effort since it was a session that didn’t really “count”.

A senior player ran up to him and said, “Hey, Nick.  What’s going on?  It seems like you don’t care.”  Nick explained that it really didn’t matter since the coach wasn’t there.  The senior responded, “No, man.  It’s cool to care.”

For Nick, that’s when it “clicked”.  It’s cool to care about being your best, it’s cool to care about others, and cool to care about the world around you.  From that day on he played with all his heart, and always made sure to pass on positive energy.  He was ultimately elected Captain, but not because of his athletic talents.  He was chosen to lead because he cared.

At Skylemar, we call this message “Cool2Care”.  For example, it’s cool2care about winning and playing your hardest, while still caring about those who lost.  It’s cool2care about yourself, by brushing teeth, showering and washing hands throughout the day.  It’s cool2care about the land of Skylemar, by never leaving trash on the ground.  It’s cool2care about your bunkmates, especially when someone’s feeling left out.   And…It’s cool to care about loved ones at home so much that you might even get teary thinking about them.

It’s the motto we live by, at least most of the time.  You see, we’re human of course, so make plenty of mistakes.  Sometimes we forget that it’s cool2care and need to be corrected.  Then we t-r-r-r-y-y again.

Far more often than not, Skylemar guys demonstrate that it’s cool2care.  In fact, if you see someone putting cool2care in action, it can be shared on a card in the “Cool2Care Cooler” located on the office porch.  Every so often Nick will go into the cooler and pick out a meaningful card to read to the camp.

Tonight’s card was written about one who is especially kind and helpful to all.  He knows each person by name, and always says “hello”.  He is respectful, compassionate and puts others ahead of himself.

The first Cool2Care chain of 2022 is awarded to Isaac Garonzik.

PS Congrats to first time skiers:  Lajuan, Ainsley, Jack H, Dillon W, Ayan, Joseph P, and Logan D!

Walking on sunshine all day long!

The fields and courts were hopping.  It’s amazing how many things can be done with a ball.   There are all the regular games we’ve mentioned, plus today we played Handball, Kickball, Bocce, Volleyball, Spikeball, Mini Lax and Gaga.  If you’re not familiar, Gaga is kind of like dodge ball played below the knees inside an octagon sandpit.

There’s lots more than sports at Skylemar which adds variety to the program. The kids love Chilltop, our outdoor Arts & Crafts department.  Director Mary Beth is one of the nicest, most fun teachers a kid will ever have.  Her projects are geared towards boys, and include sand art, tie dye, model making and Shrinky Dinks (remember those?).  They make masterpieces with glitter, architectural structures out of wood and artistic creations out of clay.

The best part of Chilltop might be the conversations which take place while the guys are working.  There’s something about looking down and keeping hands busy that’s relaxing, and in turn helps discussions to flow.  In fact, they might even toss around ideas for the next hot product.  How about an athletic mouth guard that also whitens teeth?   Brilliant!

Skylemar has food artists too.  The SkyDeck is an indoor/outdoor cooking studio that’s one of the most popular places at camp.  Today at 6am, Ari F and Barron of Bunk 6 stopped by to cook the mussels they found in Trickey Pond.  Director Adam showed them how to do so with garlic and shallots.

The kids love being scheduled for SkyDeck for either breakfast or dinner.  Bunk 15 made a three-course meal all on the grill:  Elote corn, grilled steak with homemade tortillas, pickled onions and lime crema… then grilled peaches with homemade whipped cream for dessert.   Those who signed up for the Tapas Clinic during third period made empanadas and “Spanish Tortilla”, which is a frittata with potatoes inside.

We kept it relaxed for Evening Activity as well.  It was Spirit Night – an evening when we gather in the field in front of the Rec Hall for a time of gratitude and togetherness.  Tonight’s theme was “Brotherhood” and Bunk 22 led the responsive readings and songs.  Shep read a story about brothers helping brothers, and counselor Tommy shared his thoughts on the topic with his sermonette.  We conclude with the Apache Blessing (“May the sun bring you new energy by day; may the moon softly restore you by night.  May the rain wash away your worries; may you walk gently through the world and know its beauty all the days of your life.”) …and then a round of ice cream for all.  George and Cory are fantastic at leading the camp songs, which always bring smiles and cheers.  It was fun to learn that the grandfather of two new campers wrote one of the Skylemar songs almost 70 years ago!

Upside-down cake kinda weather day.  Started perfect, then it poured… then sunny, and poured again.  Weird thing was the forecast said 90% sunny all day.  So clearly, we’re in the top 10%!

While skies were bright, Trickey Pond was the place to be.  Conditions were ideal for standup paddle boarding, canoeing and kayaking.  The dedicated and patient H2O team does whatever it takes to make swim lessons fun.  We’re especially proud of the beginners.

The waterfront at Skylemar is very deep – 30’.  We want everyone, despite their swim level to enjoy the giant inflatables, so the rule is that we wear life jackets.  That way a beginner swimmer can have fun with a friend who’s advanced.  The kids love the Iceberg – a giant climbing wall that you jump off of.  The Beast is a humongous slide adjacent to a water trampoline.  Then there’s the Rope Swing and the Pontoon (our floating diving tower).

The Ski Dock is known for getting every single person willing to try to get up on skis.  They have a top-secret method that’s shared only with the country’s finest instructors who happen to work at Skylemar.  It starts with massive amounts of enthusiasm, encouragement and patience.  Best of all, when the kid gets up it’s a golden moment for those in the boat as well as the dock-full of exuberant supporters.

Before long, one moves from the boom to the short rope to the full-length line.  Eventually it’s slalom and maybe even the Mau Mau Challenge (barefoot skiing).

Today Henry Z (Bunk 6), Miles B (Bunk 4), Brady J (Bunk 5), Henry G (Bunk 5), Sawyer (Bunk 5), Jacob W (Bunk 5) and Zeus M (Bunk 26) got up for the very first time.  Way to go!

As if it was planned, the recent rainstorms have come consistently from 11:40-12:40.  That’s the Clinic Period, when each camper selects an activity that they’ll work on for a week.  Signing up for Clinics is really fun in itself.  There are typically 14 or so choices, and the counselors advertise what they’re offering with a skit called a “commercial”.  Each camper has a Golden Ticket with his name on it, which he gives to the counselor offering the class that he wishes to take.

For example, this week’s choices included “World Cup Soccer”, “Captain Jack Sparrow Sailing”,  “Magic Touch Lax”, “Golf with Josh”,  “Catch & Launch Football”, “Tennis Groundstrokes”, “Shepherdy Reading Clinic”, “Hockey Combine with Coach Jim”, “Ski Dock Refresher”, “Water Games at the Lake”, “Handles Hoops Clinic”, “Spanish Tapas Making at SkyDeck”, “SkyPines Fire Building” and The Lab’s “Bigger Stronger Faster Clinic”.

Hardest part is deciding which to choose!

Fresh homemade cinnamon rolls, scrambled eggs, oatmeal, cereal, orange slices followed by a rainstorm.  Fortunately, Barney and Cory had a rainy day schedule ready to go.

Cabins rotated through an assortment of indoor activities, including Games in the Lodge (ping pong, pool, foosball, etc.) and Flamingo Bingo.  That’s the traditional game with a Skylemar twist.  Winners get to pick a stunt card for their counselor to perform.  For example, the counselor might have to do the chicken dance, sing the National Anthem, recite the ABC’s backwards or sing a song by Bruno Mars.  If the brave man can do it, the whole cabin wins a pair of sunglasses.

The Garden Cabin smelled delicious with Cookie Baking.  There was Bracelet Making at Chilltop, Legoland in the Farmhouse, and Board Games in the Bat Cave.  Suzie’s Card Shark Game Show was a hit under the Pavilion.  Porch Time with Shep can happen, rain or shine.  Shep has a topic that the kids discuss while eating Scooby Snacks.  Today they talked about what you should do when you see someone treating another unkindly:  you stand up and speak up.

After a lunch of cheesesteak subs and make-your-own salads, the rain was finished so the regular schedule resumed.  Archery, Volleyball, Baseball, Gaga, Hockey, Buoy Ball, Golf, Steal the Bacon, Soccer, Hoops, Throwing (as in discus and shot put) and Lax.  Lots of action at the waterfront too.  Check out the fish that was later filleted by Chef Junior!

Evening Activity was the Scavenger Hunt.  A younger and older cabin gets matched up as a team, and each team has to find items as well as accomplish tasks.  Without going into a building they had to find a pine cone shaped like the Eiffel Tower, a piece of duct tape, a water bottle with a sticker on it (easy) and two coins (really hard, especially nowadays).  They also had to tell counselor QLew a haiku, sing a chorus of any song, name four ways to cook an egg, and figure out how many working toilets are at camp (69 in case you’re wondering…).

Congratulations to the winners, Bunks 12 & 17!

Day 1 of real camp and it sure was a scorcher!  Hot enough to melt a water bottle, as some of the boys discovered.  Temps were in the high 80’s and the humidity was thick.  The Water & Sunscreen Wagon got plenty of action, traveling across fields and courts.

The little guys were up at dawn, ready to take on the day.  Counselors rolled out of bed and gave their best 6 AM effort.  Those who were older took advantage of the 8:30 breakfast hour and slept as long as they could.

“Bunk 1 raises the flag at the Rec Hall, and Bunk 2 at the Pine Grove”, the voice on the PA announced.  It’s a big honor to be the flag raisers, and the boys take it seriously.  We all stand at attention while the cabin in charge does the honors.  Once you learn how to fold the flag properly, it’s something that you never forget.

The morning paper, aka “the schedule”, awaits each group at the breakfast table.   Everything you need to know about the day is listed, including where to go when, and which counselor leads every activity.

For example, Bunks 1-9 were lucky to have a Waterfront morning.  Director Gia and her awesome staff at Trickey Pond did a phenomenal job with swim assessments.  The counselors swam alongside the kids, so that no one felt intimidated.  Once you were done it was time for a motorboat ride at the Ski Dock.

Meanwhile, Bunks 10-12 had Tennis, 13 & 14 had Lacrosse, 15 & 16 had Baseball, 17 went to Golf, 18-19 were at the Challenge Course, 20 & 21 had Hockey, 22-23 played Soccer, 25-26 had The Lab (strength & conditioning). 27 & 28 had Football and 29-30 went to Basketball.

But that was just First Period.

There are 7 periods in each day.  The first two are assigned and the third is a choice.  After lunch there are three assigned periods, followed by dinner and another choice period.  Evening Activity comes next, and we wrap it up around 9 PM.

Tonight’s Evening Activity was supposed to be a Campfire, but it was still too warm to sit around the extra heat.  Instead, we had “Sunsets and S’mores” down at the lake.  It felt great to be together as one big family having fun while appreciating the natural beauty of the colored sky.  Skylemar’s known for spectacular sunsets, and tonight’s was especially beautiful.  Favorite part of the evening had to have been the Counselor Belly Flop Contest. Congrats to the good sports who had us all wincing and laughing.

Holy Guacamole!  These guys are incredible!

If we could figure out how to bottle their positive energy, perhaps it could fuel the planes coming from across the country and abroad.

Today’s young travelers came from Maryland, California, Virginia, Alabama, New York, Louisiana, Connecticut, Texas, Delaware, Mexico, Georgia, North Carolina, Massachusetts, Spain, Florida, Pennsylvania, Colorado, Kansas, France, Illinois, Washington DC and Maine.  Word on the street from the Southwest Airlines agent: “I’d love to have a group like Skylemar for every flight.  You guys are loud, but super respectful.”   Well said!

Contrary to how flights have been running overall, today’s were smooth and on-time.  Each of our 200 campers were welcomed warmly by 100 counselors who had spent the past two weeks training and preparing for this important day.  No matter how we described their liveliness, you really have to experience the joy of eight little guys running, squealing, laughing and repeatedly asking for a piggy-back.

By dinner time, just about everyone had arrived.  The traditional first night meal:  Heaping plates of spaghetti with meatballs, garlic bread and Cesar salad.  Even the pickiest of eaters had plenty to choose from.

“Staff Intros” was the Evening Activity.  Directors Nick, Barney and DT had the kids cracking up with a wrestling skit.  Best part was hearing the boys cheer for their counselors, as each was announced.

By now, all are snuggled in bed with a room full of new brothers.  Shep made his rounds of “Good Nights” and checked on each and every member of the Skylemar family.  There were a few tears of course, but that’s to be expected.  After all, it’s hard to say goodbye to those we love.

Tomorrow’s the official kickoff – Skylemar 2022.  Let the summer begin!

Just wanted to share this temporary Blog, with a sneak peak into our emotional farewell morning.

The good news is he had you to come home to.  We miss him already!

No one seemed to notice the rain today at Camp Skylemar.  We were too busy playing just one more game and spreading around a whole bunch of love.   It’s Thank You Thursday, and we have lots to be grateful for.

Wherever we looked, there was a friend, a mentor, a hero.  Not just one, but a couple hundred.  It’s a bittersweet feeling knowing that we’re parting ways tomorrow.  Then again, we’re heading home to those we adore.

As the kids write Thank You notes throughout the day, it is this blog writer who overflows with gratitude.  Thank you for being the most wonderful parents in the whole wide world, and for sharing your amazing son with us this summer.

We love him to the Sky and back.

PS … Special thanks to my Color War ghostwriter Aaron F for making me sound like I know what I’m talking about.  Wink.  Now that’s a good friend.

After a summer drenched with more than the typical amount of seasonal rain, Mother Nature stepped aside for the past 5 days.  A sensational weather week gave us the full range of emotion from every corner of camp.  We saw plenty of ups and downs on the fields, courts and in the water, filled with amazing plays, buzzer-beaters, great shots and phenomenal saves, spectacular runs, catches and interceptions, clutch hits and outstanding glove work.  There were daily displays of speed, power, agility, quickness, and plain old athletic “smarts”, with too many last-second heroics to mention.  We even saw a rare hole-in one!  More so, both teams gave it all they had with maximum effort, all-around hustle, and an intensity level you’d expect in a War this close from the very start.  The passionate leadership, outstanding teamwork, sportsmanship, and incredible resilient spirit thrilled us all, and will leave a lasting memory for all who witnessed it.  Here’s how it ended….

Red’s tenuous lead gained at last night’s Songs & Cheers would be tested right out of the shoot this morning as Gray came storming out and blitzed Red in the first of two Sophomore Soccer matches over at the Hejduk.  But Red again was up to the challenge, and made an early goal stand up to win the second.  Red then won Juniors Football and both Stars Hoops games and again took command. A pitcher’s duel on the Freddie Pierce saw the Red Cubs slip past the Gray 2-0, before Gray got back on the board with a win in Seniors Tennis. Red victories in Tigers Golf and Bocce, and the all-camp Archery point put them solidly in the catbird seat – before Gray jumped right back in it by sweeping a pair of Freshmen Hockey games as we closed out the week’s athletic events.  Gray had fought valiantly, but Red would take the lead into the summer’s most anticipated traditional event – the most memorable activity of every Color War for the past 70+ years – Skylemar’s official closer — TUGS of WAR!!!

Coop’s Red Men had performed magnificently since mid-week, putting them in position to close it out.  It would only take two wins out of the seven Divisions in Tugs to win it all.  It seemed likely, but history has written many fairy tale endings. Aiden’s Gray Men still believed – and remained upbeat and confident of pulling off the upset.

The time had come… the PA sounded, “Gray Team to the Tennis courts, Red Team to the Hockey courts” for some last second “psyching up,” not that anyone needed it.  Shep called the teams to the Snow Field, and within minutes our youngest division, the Cubs, took the rope for the first time, beginning the process.  It would take best 2 of 3 tugs for a win in each division; Round 1 saw each Division take their first tug before coming back for Round 2.

“Tuggers take the rope!”, Shep bellowed.  Grip tight, feet anchored, George blew the whistle and…

PULL!!!  Muscles clenched tighter than tight, faces twisted with Herculean effort.  Each participant put every ounce of his very being into pulling that rope because he…has…to…win. The air filled with emotion, so thick that spectators were overcome as well.  This demonstration of will power was so intense that many on the hillside teared up.  These were our boys!

Those on the sidelines screamed, “Pull…Pull…Pull”!  A few tugs seemed like they’d never end.  When Gray swept the oldest 3 Divisions, Red’s lead had all but disappeared, down to just ½ point separating the teams – then, just as suddenly, Red closed out the Juniors and Sophomores tugs ….and it was over.  RED WINS COLOR WAR 2021!

The Red Team stormed the field in celebration!  They leaped into each other’s arms, cheered wildly and just plain exploded with joy.  It was the happiest day of their lives.

At least it was until they saw their Gray brothers sobbing, collapsed in raw emotion.  They too wanted to win more than anything in the world.

Red Men reached out to Gray with hugs and kind words.  The Captains were hoisted on the shoulders of their Lieutenants, and the entire camp followed them down to Trickey Pond.

Here, friends leaped into the lake, which is where the magic happens.  Trickey Pond washes away the competition, and Skylemar is one.

The magic continued after sunset, when it’s time for Waterfront Ceremony… perhaps the most loved and cherished Skylemar tradition.  The Captains led the torch-lit procession, which included every member of the Skylemar community.  The walk was silent, and even the little guys followed the rule tonight.

At the lake was a pathway of torches, with a giant bonfire on top of the water.  Once seated, we paused for a moment of gratitude for all those at home as well as at camp.  The Captains each had a chance to share their message.  They talked about their appreciation for Skylemar, and all that they’ve learned here.  The Captains encouraged each camper to be grateful for this opportunity and make the most of every minute.

Shep called each cabin, one at a time, to come to the water’s edge and light their Wishing Boats.  Our legend holds that if you light the candle, place the boat in Trickey Pond and make a wish for someone other than yourself, that wish just might come true.    The boats sparkled like a sky full of stars, as Skylemar songs were sung from across the lake.

Once up the hill, each Division had their own campfires.  Pizza and s’mores too.  It was a special way to end a spectacular week.

As we moved past the halfway point, the significance of Day 4 cannot be overstated. The weather could not have cooperated better, bringing us maybe the most spectacular day of the summer. This morning’s “psych-up” meetings told the story….

For Red, it was a real chance to separate themselves enough to alleviate any potential pitfalls from tonight’s critical Songs and Cheers competition. They’ve held the lead for the better part of the last two days, although still a bit tentative.  Captain Coop implored his guys to continue to “go for the gold” – to play their hearts out and to try to build this lead even bigger.  He cautiously warned that there’s still a long way to go.

Gray had other ideas.  This group could have been downtrodden from two tough days with not-so-great results.   But Captain Aiden squelched any dejected thoughts derived from looking up at the top, oozing confidence as he pushed his guys to build on the momentum gained late yesterday.  He promised better results if they remained patient, focused and continued to put it all on the line.

Tigers Lacrosse was the first result in, where Gray made short work of Red and an early move upward, but Red quickly stalled the rally by winning a very well-played Seniors Soccer game over at Sky II, 2-0.

The Sophomores covered both the Sky I and II Tennis courts and showed us again how evenly matched they have been throughout this Color War – today was no different, as they split the Tennis point.  Three events in, and still no change – Red remained in command.

Down at Trickey, another ski-off (timed wake-crossings) was needed to determine the winner – except this time we couldn’t declare one as the last skier needed to cross the wake successfully 18 times for a win.  The clock ran out as he crossed for the 17^th time, leaving us with the first Waterfront tie in many years, splitting Freshmen Waterfront.

A spirited Gray buzz began to simmer when word of their wins in Stars Golf and Bocce spread through camp and was ready to erupt, when the Gray Juniors won Softball down on the Fred Pierce Field.

And erupt they did, due to the morning’s most thrilling contests – of course, again involving our littlest guys.  Our Cubs seem to take every event down to the final whistle, and these “gridiron classics” were no different.  Since most other contests were decided, the participants from all other Divisions surrounded the two Cubs Football games as the 4^th quarter clock wound down in both games.  On the Rec Hall field, down 2 scores at halftime, Gray used some creative razzle-dazzle plays to score 3 late TDs in their come-from-behind win.  Moments later on the bunkline field, after Red had staged a miraculous comeback of their own late in the 4^th to grab their first lead of the game with under a minute to go, Gray used 5 plays to go 70 yards, scoring on a 1-yard plunge with less than 10 seconds left to send the Gray faithful to delirium.

The Gray comeback was complete.  Only a half-point now separated the teams as they headed to lunch and Songs and Cheers practice.  So, so close.

Waterfront events were now all done, so all the courts and fields were humming with action all afternoon.  And when the Gray Juniors quickly swept through two Bocce matches in the Garden, the score was tied…. WOW!  A bit later, 8 golf matches were complete with each team claiming 4 wins, halving Juniors Golf. Still tied.

Back and forth they went.  In a Lacrosse doubleheader over on the Hejduk, the first game ended in a tie, so the 2^nd one was played with the Sophs Lax point up for grabs.  Red won in a very close 2-goal game.  Then in Cubs Soccer, little Jakey made 2 key saves late to preserve Gray’s 1-0 victory in Game 1, then his teammates won Game 2 handily to secure the point for Gray.

Over in the Hockey Rink, the Red Stars swept a pair of games and regained the lead.  Then Gray served and volleyed their way to claim Tigers Tennis, once again drawing even. It looked like the day could end that way as the Freshmen Baseball game seemingly became a twilight affair. They battled ‘til just before dinner, when Red finally broke through with 3 runs in the last inning to come from behind and put Red back ahead.  It was just a one point difference as we headed to tonight’s Songs and Cheers Competition. AMAZING!

Throughout this week of non-stop activity from dawn to dusk, somehow each team’s leaders and their devoted followers found the time to prepare for tonight’s important event, Songs and Cheers.  Eight total points were on the table, so the impact of one of our most cherished traditions would be felt by all.

Patience.  Creativity.  Planning.  Organization.  Talent.   These are just some of the skills needed to write five songs and a musical production.  Next you have to teach 100 kids the lyrics by memory, in maybe a total of five hours max.  Then there’s the choreography, and the effort that it takes to get boys ages 7 to 16 to do what you want them to do.

There aren’t too many adults who could handle this, but we know some Skylemar guys who have what it takes.  Ranging in age from 16 down to 13, Alexander S (Red), Jack A (Red), Isaac G (Gray) and Ari M (Gray), along with their assistants, were remarkable leaders.  Each team was spectacular, performing a Camp Cheer, Team Cheer, Fight Song, Old Camp Song and Original.

With just two rehearsals, each team also put on a 20 minute show, called The Production Number.  It’s a mini-musical that they create, where each person on the team has to be included.

The boys sang their hearts out, even though their voices have been strained by four grueling, intense, wildly cheering days of Color War. Still, somehow, both teams found a way to entertain us all by giving us their best.  We then waited patiently as Judges Ethan, Barney and Beags sorted out what they had just seen and heard.  The results were handed over to Nick Shep to announce. Red carried the night 5-3, and with it, now a still slim 3-pont lead to sleep on.

Tomorrow sets up for an incredible end to this unforgettable week.  If it’s anything like what we’ve seen so far, we are in for some kind of fantastic finish.  This one’s still anybody’s game!

The forecasted rain blew through overnight and greeted Day 3 with a glorious Maine day. Red now held a slim lead, but Gray remained enthusiastic and confident. Not only has the overall score remained close, but each event seemingly could have gone either way.  Today, the trend continued.

While Red began the morning by sweeping both games of Bocce, the Cubs duffers ventured out on the Sky Hills CC tract for morning match play, won by Gray 6-4 in the closest golf matches to date.

Red swimmers and skiers did enough to render the boating portion meaningless, winning another Waterfront point down on Trickey Pond.

The Juniors hit the courts – and a lot more tennis balls after splitting the singles and doubles matches 3-3.  That left the skills competition to decide it, but after falling behind early in the ground strokes segment, Red aced the serving section and took the morning Tennis point.

Red’s slight lead was growing, but the Gray Tigers put a quick stop to that, winning a pair of Basketball games at the Hoops Courts.  Luke Y hit the biggest shots in a 14-12 barnburner on the upper court, while down below, Sebi’s unsung play defensively and all-court hustle carried Gray in Game 2 as well.

Red then turned the tide back in their favor with two impressive wins in Seniors Hockey.  Jack P starred in one dominant win, while Tyler N and Aaron P were the only “skaters” who found the net in the other.  Red Freshmen then dominated a Football game on the Rec Hall gridiron before Gray got back on track with a late comeback win on the Bunkline field, highlighted by Danny M’s last minute “pick-6” to seal it. Connor had a “pick-6” of his own for Red in defeat.

The Stars finished off the morning with two very hotly contested Lacrosse games over at the Hejduk, probably the most anticipated spectator draw of any sporting event during Color War.  The younger Divisions really love to watch their leaders go at it, and today’s action was no different.   In the first contest, Carson’s success at the face-off X controlled much of the action for Red in a 7-4 win. Game 2 provided the most evenly matched display of talent, physicality and great spirit we’ve seen by both teams yet.  Captain Aiden was sensational on offense for his Gray men, while Captain Coop showed some incredible defensive prowess for his Red guys.  It is said that “defense wins championships,” and that held true today. A late, crafty trail-check by Coop to save a sure tying goal started a fast-break scoring opportunity, converted by Red, to close out a fantastic 9-7 victory in front of the packed Hejduk onlookers.  This put Red in control as we hit the halfway point of this incredible week.

The earliest results of the afternoon came from Freshmen Golf and Bocce on the Links and in the Garden. Gray swept both to quickly close the gap. Red then answered just as convincingly as Landon and the Red Seniors made short work of Gray in a lopsided 7-1 win at Sky II.

The Cubs again dueled to the finish like they have been all Color War, this time on the Tennis courts on both sides.  Red and Gray split the 6 singles and doubles matches, leaving it to the skills competition to settle it.  Tennis Director Ted beamed with pride as he watched some much improved little guys show off, with Red again just a bit better, securing the point, and now building their advantage even more.

Red kept the pressure on, but Gray continued to fight back.  In Juniors Hockey, Red led in both games only to succumb to Gray’s unwillingness to relent, fighting back to tie both games and gain the split.  Red continued to press on.   In Stars Waterfront, Nate’s efforts in the kayak race had the dock rockin’ for Gray, but again Red skied off to another Trickey victory. Red had command with two events left to finish, and had Gray reeling a bit.

Then the Gray Sophomores responded in a Hoops Trifecta – a trio of simultaneous games played inside and out. When the teams split two well-played games on the outdoor courts (decided by 5 total points between them), all awaited word from the indoor gym at Sky II to decide it.  There Gray blew out Red to win the Basketball point, and maybe begin to turn the momentum back their way.

A few minutes later down on the Snow Field in Tigers Soccer, Gray scored a tie-breaking, game-winning goal as the final whistle sounded to win in spectacular fashion, and creep within striking distance of the lead as Day 3’s Color War activities ended.  Red still led… but Gray was lurking.

A welcome break from the Color War intensity, it was time to kick back and enjoy another amazing Suzie Production, “Willy Wonka”.  Congratulations to an all-star cast, who somehow found time to learn lines while playing harder than ever for their Color War team.  Now that’s a win!

Willy Wonka Cast

Wonka                                Kyle YA, Aidan R

Charlie                                Hayes N, Jack W

Grandpa Joe                      Noah L

Augustus Gloop                Ethan R

Veruca                                Xander

Violet                                  Jake S

Mike Teavee                     Keith O

Mr. Salt                               Ryder

Mr. Bucket                         Noah K

Mr. Beauegarde               Teddy S

Mrs. Gloop                         Eli D

Mr. Teavee                        Jonah K

Grandpa George              Eli W

Grandma Georgina          Jagger

Grandma Josehina           Nolan B

Candy Man                        Cooper E

Phineous Trout                 Ethan V

Matt                                    Cooper F

Jamie                                   Oscar

Oompa Loompas 

Bode

Semaj

Spencer M

Bucky

Max P

Nate F

Charlie L

Tommy W

Bah

A bit of early AM cloud cover cleared beautifully into a spectacular Maine day.  Both teams seemed fresh and confident as they took to the fields and courts, determined to grab the lead and take control of this War.

And Gray did just that when Zane R went deep on the 2^nd pitch of the game (his first ever!) to get his Seniors off to a quick lead in Softball, which they held until the game’s very last batter.   With two on and two out, Malibu smoked a game-tying double to knot the score and split the Seniors Softball point.

Over at the Hejduk, the teams split two Freshmen Lax games.  Red was led by Will A, Jamie and Brody while Boden and Bode were Gray standouts.

In Tigers Hockey, stout defense with great play by all 4 netminders in both games defined the play, especially Myer, and both Thomas’s (L and T) who were superb – so much so that neither team could find the net, and both ended in scoreless ties… and again splitting the Hockey point.

We thought Gray would finally surge ahead with a dominating win in Stars Tennis. But the lead was short-lived as the Red Cubs won 2 of 3 Hoops contests to again draw even with most of the morning complete.

The Sophomores couldn’t break the tie either.  In Football action on the Rec Hall field, Henry H was terrific for Red, but Will D’s all-around play on both sides of the ball led Gray to the 47-38 win, On the Bunkline field, opposing twin QBs Harry and Will provided the wildest “2-minute drill” finish seen in years as they dueled to the final whistle in the most exciting contest so far.  Down by 2 scores late in the 4^th quarter, Will scored to bring Gray a bit closer.  Then Carson, who caught balls all over the field in building their lead, was caught himself by Joel on 4^th down (a fantastic lunging flag grab) just before gaining a new set of game-clinching downs for Red, giving the ball back to Gray with 1:20 left.   When Will crossed the goal line just a few plays later, Gray had completed an improbable comeback to surge ahead, 70-64, with still under a minute to go. Not to be outdone, Harry then led Red on a 70-yard drive, ending in a spectacular TD run with :11 seconds left to tie it… the 2-point conversion that followed gave Red a most incredible 72-70 win in one of the greatest offensive shows ever seen, as the field swarmed with enthusiastic spectators from both sides. What a finish, and we’re still tied.

Then, news of the Gray Juniors triumph at the Waterfront finally broke the deadlock and all headed to lunch with Gray just a point ahead.

After the meal, the teams gathered to begin practice for the Color War Songs and Cheers competition to be held in the evening of Day 4 (more on that when we get there), before once again heading out to venues at both Sky I and II for this afternoon’s events.  Gray had finally edged ahead, but Red remained confident, upbeat and ready to respond.

And that they did indeed, but not before the Gray Tigers won both the Swim and Kayak segments down at Trickey to win the afternoon Waterfront.

In Stars Soccer over at Sky II, Charlie saved everything that came his way in Red’s 2-0 shutout in Game 1, then watched his fellow Redmen win by the same score in Game 2, securing the point for Red.  Rex scored the game winner before Sam M punched in a PK for insurance.

The Juniors played a pair of games on the Hoops courts. Red won a very tight one on the lower court, while Michael H led Gray to a hard fought victory on the upper court, splitting the Basketball point.

In Freshmen Soccer on the Snow Field, Nolan C impressed with great play all over the field in a dominant win in Game 1 for Gray. Again, Red bounced right back to split the Soccer point with a convincing 4-1 Game 2 win.

Red was clearly out to make a statement, and when Coop R dazzled the crowd with a 50-yard TD scamper, Red was off and running, leading wire-to-wire in a 62-48 Seniors Football victory.  They followed that up with a last inning, come-from-behind 8-7 win in Sophomores Baseball on the Freddie Pierce, and awaited the fate of Cubs Lacrosse to determine whether they had in fact turned the momentum their way.

It was worth the wait. Once again, our littlest guys entertained all with the Game of the Day.  After 3+ quarters of back-and-forth action, including a couple of lead changes in the 4^th quarter alone, Red held a slim 1-goal lead.  With only 10 seconds left, Nolan B scooped up a loose ball behind the cage, dodged and circled the net, and with the final second ticking off the clock (and nearly out of breath), he shot and scored at the horn to tie the game 7-7.  It was a fitting finish to the most thrilling, competitive Cubs Lax game in recent memory. That left it up to Game 2, where Asher was the clear MVP for Red in a 7-4 win, taking the Cubs Lacrosse point and sending the ecstatic Red Team to the lead for the first time – one they can sleep on as Day 2 is history.

Just a couple of days in, and the boys have already given us a snapshot of what’s still yet to come.  More great action and excitement, more displays of strength, speed, power, agility, teamwork and sportsmanship, and of course, the “thrill of victory and the agony of defeat”.  Stay tuned… this one’s really heating up!

The dawn of Red and Gray 2021 was upon us. By 6 AM, the air was filled with the buzz only known to those who’ve been through it – a few hundred kids already running all over sharing the news as to which team they are on.  Each boy awoke to find a colored ribbon pinned to his pillow under the cover of darkness, denoting the team he will compete for, battle and “sweat” for, and sing and cheer his heart out for, over the next 5 days.  It’s Skylemar’s most storied tradition – the 73^rd edition of the greatest show on earth – our Color War.  You could almost taste the sweet smell of excitement from anywhere on camp.

But nope.  That smell was actually another Skylemar staple – the annual Red and Gray Buffet.  What better way to kick-off the favorite week of the summer then by having our own favorite “breakfast of champions” – a choice of bacon, sausage, eggs, cinnamon rolls, French toast, cereals, potatoes, muffins, yogurt, oatmeal, Danish pastry, fresh-cut fruit and on and on …the combinations were endless, and the boys heartily fueled up for the start of what will be an incredible week of action.

After breakfast and the routine morning inspection – the loudspeaker bellowed, “Red Team to the Pine Grove, Gray Team to the Mail House” as the teams gathered for the first of many “psych-up” meetings to come.  Each teammate locked arms in a circle of strength, as team leaders implored and inspired with words of encouragement, pounding cheers and pump-up music, looking for a week of maximum effort and hopeful of ultimate victory.

Then, both teams were called to the Fred Pierce Field, which again would serve as the official Opening Day venue like it has for the past 72 Color Wars.  As is our custom, all participants remain for the first full inning before heading out for Divisional play to every corner of camp.  A few moments later, after Super Tutor Marge threw the ceremonial first pitch, Umpire Shep proclaimed “Play ball!” and Color War 2021 was off and running.

The Stars played a double dip, with a game on both fields.  At the Fred Pierce Field, after a 4-pitch top of the first, Gray opened the bottom half with a first inning home run barrage to jump ahead 4-0, and never looked back in a 15-3 win.  Bennett and Reece each smashed 3 home runs, and Josh B hit a pair.  Charlie S also went yard for the winners, while Sam M took one deep for the Red in defeat.  However, on the middle diamond, Red’s fielders proved defense can still win by holding Gray off the bases in a 4-1 win to split the twin bill.

After the 1^st inning was complete, the other Divisions headed out all over camp for contests in just about everything, The Cubs went over to the Hockey court where Gray impressed with back-to-back shutouts to win both games.  Max P and Nate F scored 7 goals between them in Game 1, while Carter and Inigo provided all the offense needed in Game 2’s victory.

Gray also won Tigers football by a couple of TDs, with Anders, Thatcher and Oscar doing most of the damage.

On the Hoops courts, a tripleheader of games for the Freshmen — after losing the first game, Red came back to win both Games 2 and 3, each by just a bucket to eek out the Basketball point for Red. Then Red followed up over on the Hejduk Field with a hard-fought 5-3 win in Juniors soccer. And further, even though Gray won the swimming portion down at Trickey, Red Skiers and Kayakers carried Red to the finish line to win Seniors Waterfront – another extremely close morning contest, which went down to the final skier to determine the overall winner.

Gray got back on track though with news of their victories in Sophomores Bocce, then Golf – highlighted by Nathan K’s hole-in-one!

Jacob R hit the back of the net 5 times as Gray dominated Game 1 in Sophs Hockey at the rink

Only a half point separated the teams, with 5 contests decided in the last minute of action….and this was just the beginning.

In the afternoon, the Cubs put on quite a show down on the Pond.  According to Super Aquatics Director Peter, it was maybe the closest scoring he’s ever seen, with each of the 3 segments in question up for grabs ‘til the finish.  The 4×25 relay needed a “photo finish” to confirm the winner, and saw the Red hand touch first giving them the Swim portion win by just a point. Over on the boat dock, the paddlers were set for the two-heat, total time kayak races – decided by a measly 1.5 seconds combined in favor of Gray, setting up the ski-off to determine the overall Waterfront point, where Gray’s Santi prevailed.

Up on the Bunkline gridiron, Red Lts. Logan and DMar ran and passed it all over the field to win Stars Football, despite the multiple TD efforts of Ethan K to stay in it for Gray.  Over on the SkyLinks, Red jumped out fast, winning the first 5 matches, then completed the Seniors sweep with a win in the Bocce Garden as well.

Gray won both Sophomores Hockey games over on the rink.  Jacob R was unstoppable, hitting the back of the net 5 times in Game 1.  In game 2, outstanding goalie play by Aiden R and Elias G kept it close, 2-1.

Red dominated Freshmen Tennis, winning 4 of the 6 singles and doubles matches, cementing the victory by carrying the Skills competition as well.

The two most exciting contests of the day nearly ended at the same time, with cheers emanating wildly and simultaneously from both Sky I and Sky II.  Just as Ollie H was swarmed after putting the finishing touches on a nifty, 1-0, two-hit shutout in Tigers Baseball on the Freddie Pierce for Red, the noise level rose from the Hejduk as Jesse R scored the game-winner with 14 seconds left to settle a back-and-forth, high-intensity 8-7 nip and tuck affair for Gray in Juniors Lacrosse.  Whew! What a day….and we weren’t quite done yet.

Red now had the slightest of leads – 1 point, as we awaited the results of the traditional first night’s Color War activity – Ping Pong.  And this one didn’t disappoint either. Under the Pavilion lights in the most competitive, festive outdoor Ping Pong environment to date, the Gray team, down 2 matches with 3 to play, swept all 3 to win the Ping Pong point….and end Day 1 with the score tied, dead even, all square!  Unbelievable – 22 total events.  Tie score, we want more!

If you’re the parent of one of the 28 campers in the Stars Division who were not elected Captain, we know what you might be thinking…

He wanted this more than anything in the world.  He must be devastated.  Is he ok?

Perhaps he was a standout kid who’s been told he was “Captain material” for years.  Or maybe he was a like all the others, who quietly hoped for the miracle of being elected.

No matter what, there were some disappointed Stars last night.  No question, a few were stunned to learn that they weren’t chosen.  Some fought back tears as they were consoled in the back of the room.

So what did happen to the heartbroken ones when the rest of camp left the Rec Hall?  They walked arm-in-arm back to Sky II, talking about the night and the Color War days ahead.  They were good because they had each other.  It’s true – we checked.  2021 was no different than 1948 or any year in between.

They accept, they bounce back, and they become the best team leaders in the whole wide world.  Through their many years at Skylemar, they’ve learned a foundational lesson of leadership which can only be taught through experience. That is…you don’t need a title to be a strong leader.

The desire to be your best and do for others comes from within.  It’s a passion that burns inside, that’s shared by the people who make it happen, as compared to those who just watch it happen.

It’s 24 hours later, and the 2021 Election is an event of the past.  Now it’s time to focus on the games, songs and team spirit for the days ahead.

As this is typed, the Red and Gray Captains, along with their First Lieutenants, are hidden away drafting the teams.  They go through each Division selecting every teammate, with Shep there to officiate but never to influence.

If the Captains do their job well tonight, the teams will be perfectly matched and ideal for fair play.  There are no adults micromanaging, arranging or adjusting.  The kids elect the Captains, and the Captains draft the teams.   As mentioned last night, it’s no surprise to any camper that siblings could be separated and cabin mates as well.  We promise…it works.

Once the draft is finalized, the Captains will put a red or gray ribbon under the pillow of each team member.  It’s memorable, meaningful and magical … just a few hours ’til morning!

For most, it was a typical day with some extra excitement in the air. 67 little guys swam across the lake (with 32 staff members) at 6:30 in the morning.  Cubs and Tigers had their Tennis Tournament.   The Juniors took a trip to the Maine Wildlife Park and the cast of “Willy Wonka” was busy in rehearsal.  Activities included League Hockey and Softball, Waterfront, Archery, Lax, Hoops, Golf and the High Ropes Course.  The lucky ones got our most popular period…Sky Deck.  That’s when you go to Adam’s studio kitchen to learn culinary skills and make your own special meal.

On the other hand, it wasn’t exactly business as usual for the fifteen-year-olds of the Stars Division.  For them it was one of the most important days of their lives.

Already a close group, the thirty Stars seemed extra tight on this special day.  They had Porchtime with Shep, Golf, Gaga and Lax.  Lunch was the traditional Sky II Lobster Feast, just for Bunks 25 and up.  It was a really happy time, with the topic of conversation being the big, huge, gigantic night ahead.

We’ve been counting down the days for over a week.  Everyone’s eager and excited and it would be tough for the Stars to not have just a touch of “the butterflies”.   After all, it’s the biggest night of the year…

IT’S COLOR WAR ELECTIONS 2021!

The entire camp gathered in our favorite building, The Rec Hall.  Once all were seated in assigned areas, the 30 Stars entered to a standing ovation. Color War Elections have been a Skylemar tradition for over 70 years.   This year’s ballot was larger than we can ever remember, and each young man would truly be an outstanding Captain.  Every camper votes for two who they believe will lead Skylemar in a positive way.

This is democracy as it should be.  No political ads, fundraising or empty campaign promises.  A field of quality choices.  Every secret vote counts equally, and the simple majority wins.  Tonight’s “magic number” was 113, representing one more than half of this year’s total eligible Color War participants.

Shep introduced each on the ballot, dressed as tradition dictates in their favorite jersey.  He explained how the spirit of Skylemar’s Color War is based on fair play and kindness.  Those participating are in a unique situation that isn’t found in other competitions… we care about our opponents.  We live and eat with them; they are our best friends, and we care about their feelings.  Accordingly, it’s alright to want to win, but we must remember that people who we care about are on the other team.

We should play hard and strive to be our best.  But when the game’s over, it’s over.  We must be mindful not to ruin someone else’s fun by over-reacting when we win or lose.

Shep explained that once the Captains are elected, they will be drafting the teams themselves, one camper, one Division at a time.  This means that brothers may be on opposite teams, and you could end up with five bunkmates on one team and one bunkmate on the other.  This gives you the opportunity to demonstrate how cool it is to care.

He then asked all the former Captains to stand.  Four do so, and the crowd cheered.  Then he asked for those who were on the ballot when they were 15 but did not win, to stand.  A large group rose to their feet, and they received a standing ovation.  Point is, only two people out of 30 will have the title “Captain”.  The most important and valuable young men will be the 28 others.

The Stars cast their secret ballots and left the room.  After each camper voted, they put their paper ballot in the ceremonial pickle jar.  Shep then read each aloud, one by one, and George kept the tally.

When one candidate got to 103, the countdown began.  10-9-8 they screamed… the excitement grew wildly! 4-3-2… and when Aiden Froh got to 113, he became our first elected winner and was mobbed at the door as he entered the Rec Hall.  Moments later, after Shep read just a few more votes, Cooper Ray hit the number as well and became our second Captain – receiving the same supportive Rec Hall welcome!

After both Captains made their brief acceptance speeches, the coin flip for choice of color was the first official business to be taken care of.  Cooper won and selected Red, so Aiden is Gray.  Next coin flip was for selecting the 4 Stars Division Lieutenants who will help the Captains lead their teams – the choice being first and fourth picks or second and third. Aiden won this coin toss and chose the latter.

Aiden’s Gray Team will be led by Stars Lieutenants Reece Bello and Noah Villalona while Cooper chose Logan Butler and Dylan Markulics to help lead his Mighty Red Team.

Shep then proclaimed, “Camp Skylemar, these are your chosen leaders for Color War 2021!”

Staff Orientation, our 10-day training program before the kids arrive, touches on 101 points pertaining to the safety of each child in our care.  This includes discussions and activities about what it means to be a father, mother, teacher and hero.  After all, being a super-hero is what the job’s all about.

At one point, each counselor wrote down the name of someone who they considered to be a role model, as well as the traits that describe that person.   Perhaps it was a coach, parent, employer or grandparent.  We used a flip chart to brainstorm the important qualities that made the person such an influential mentor. Along those lines, this summer would be each staff member’s opportunity to be the person forever remembered by a child, for all these right reasons.  The hand-written cards from the session were then collected and for the most part, forgotten.

At yesterday’s Counselor Meeting, six weeks from the day those cards were written, they were returned to their rightful owners.   Once all were distributed, Shep opened with a question to think about.  “Who do you think has the toughest job here at Camp Skylemar?”

He explained that there were two possible answers.  He said, “If you thought of someone other than yourself, then you are correct.  If you thought of yourself, then you’re correct too, because of our high standards and expectations.”

“Who else had the toughest job?”, Shep asked.  After a pause he said, “The role model you wrote about on the card that’s now in your hand.”

Counselors again discussed the traits of their role model.  He was “caring”, “patient”, “selfless”, “supportive”, “respectful” and so on.

How can you be the best you can be for the next 10 days at Camp Skylemar?  Shep said, “The answers are in your hand.  He continued, “Keep that card, look at it every day, and remember, nothing good comes easy.”

If you think about it, it’s never easy to be a strong leader and a role model.  Those who are our heroes just make it look easy.   At Skylemar, there are a number of those special people who work tirelessly behind the scenes, to help both counselors and campers to succeed.  After all, a true leader strives to make others look good, not themselves.

This Blog is dedicated to our “dream team” of Skylemar leaders, who go above and beyond.  Thank you times a million, to our 60+ nurses, directors, assistants, Bunksters and Bunkles.  You stand as a role model for doing whatever it takes to help others succeed.

“TWO MORE DAYS!”, they chant.  “TWO MORE DAYS!”

The most anticipated event in the Skylemar world is around the corner.  The excitement builds every day as we get closer and closer.

But for now….

Bones Senior Drip Trip went out this morning.  Trip leader Blake took the Seniors to some of the places he enjoys near Bates College.  They went to a really good mini golf place as well as the beach.  It was a fun getaway.  Meanwhile, Sophomores and Juniors had an afternoon away at the ice rink.

The weather was fine for sports and excursions, but by dinner our friendly rainmaker was at it again.  We had to figure out a plan for “Talent Show #2”, because the ground was too wet to sit outside, and we just didn’t feel like masking up to be indoors.  So, we got creative under the “Big Red”.

Shep quickly created a stage at one end of the Pavilion, and Media Director John came up with a way to project the performers on to the screen at the other end of the structure.  The little guys could watch up close and in-person, while Sky II watched the “jumbotron”.

Once again, some had real talent, and some not so much.   As in the case every year, second session means we’re even more comfortable with each other, so the acts get sillier.   That’s ok, because part of the fun for the audience is watching the guys on stage have such a great time.

Some of the memorable performances included Ethan V and Hayes dancing to “Who Let the Dogs Out”.  Other talented dancers were Eli W, Kyle and TI.  Inigo spoke Spanish, Jagger painted, Keith O did comedy, Asher did impressions, Grady did under-leg ball tricks over and over.  Bode told jokes, Myer did a split, and KJ played the inflatable guitar to “Sweet Child of Mine”.  The whole camp sang along.

Tonight’s magicians included Palmer, Ryder and Thomas L.  Charlie L, Adam A, Eli D, Cooper E and Ethan K played the piano.  Archie was the MC while Oscar did the Rubik’s Cube blindfolded.  Nate and Theo of Bunk 10 did diabolo tricks.  Carter S, Reed S, Teddy S and Ollie H were brave enough to sing solos.  All were winners, going home with a mystery choice from the super prize bag.  Grand prizes (staff shirts) went to Keith O, Reed, Kyle, TI and Asher.

Oldest campers had an Evening Activity of their own. As usual, girls were on one side and boys on the other.  But this time it was a virtual social on the big screen.  First ever in the history of Skylemar and Mataponi.  Gotta make the best of the hand we’re dealt!

“WOW!” says it all.  It’s that powerful one-word sentence to describe a jam-packed schedule and an explosion of joy at Camp Skylemar.

It was a 6:30 AM depart for the JC trip to Acadia State Park.  Some slept through the three-hour drive, but once they arrived, they all saw that it was well-worth the trip.  Acadia is one of the most beautiful places in the country.

Meanwhile, just a bit later, the Tigers took a five minute drive to Steamboat Landing Mini Golf.  It was exciting for them to leave camp, and to them, this was far away.  Next, they went to a VIP opening of Causeway Dairy Bar.  They had special private seating on the upper deck of the restaurant overlooking Long Lake.

Back home, the Juniors and Seniors had their Championship Tennis Tournament.   Congratulations to all 50 players, and especially to runner-up James E and champ Alex N.  Well played!

GACU (Great American Clean Up) periods for each cabin throughout the day.  That’s when you take a power-shower, visit the nurses for a health check, and then get your feet soaked and nails trimmed at The Spa.  When we added it up, there was a grand total of 3,222 nails clipped today by Cory, Mitch, Luci and Adam.  Now that’s a big “WOW”.

Waterfront, Archery, Basketball, Golf, Chilltop, Gaga, Baseball, Ping Pong, Hockey, Gamblin’, Soccer, Challenge Course and then we headed to Hejduk Field for a big surprise…

It’s Blow-Up Carnival!  The field was filled with colorful giant inflatables.  There was the “Mega Obstacle Course”, “Bungie Run”, “Field Goal Challenge”, “Whack-a-Mole”, “Inflatable Ax Throwing”, “Slam Dunk Hoops”, “Rock Climbing Challenge” and “Human Foosball”.  Everyone kicked off their shoes and ran from one activity to the next.

Sno-Cones were just right for the hot sticky afternoon.  Red Raspberry, Blue Hawaiian, Pink Lemonade, Mandarin Orange and Bubblegum were the most popular flavors.  Can’t say that about Crème De Menthe.   No one except for the old folks had any idea that the green flavor was mint.

Following a pizza dinner and 7^th period, it was Capture the Flag for Evening Activity.  We divided by Division on to three different fields for the game the kids love.

After Taps, the Sky I Bunkline was quieter than usual (although Sky II is still having a ping pong tournament).  Every single child and adult are absolutely exhausted after this amazing wow-day. For sure, there’s nothing better than WOW …. you do know it’s just “MOM” upside down!

Noah, Nate, DMar, Logan, Alexander, Elijah, Sam, DMan, Reese, Stephen, Ryan and Jared…the greatest JC’s in the whole wide world.  These are the leaders of Skylemar 2021.

They are the tone-setters of camp.  Because they’re fun and upbeat, we all feel that way.  Each is adored by his cabin of little guys, and all are admired for their kindness, warmth, dedication and loyalty.  These are the young men who any parent would be proud to have as their own, and who our kids hope to be like when they grow up.

Part-time cabin and activity assistant and part-time camper, you might say that the JC’s (Junior Counselors) have the best of both worlds.  They have lots of responsibilities throughout the day with the kids, but also have time assigned to play sports with the Stars.  For Color War, they’re some of the most valuable members of the team.

Living together on the Hilltop with counselors Miles and Marcus is part of what makes their summer so great.  They’re a band of brothers, who when combined represent over 80 years of Skylemar experience.

The JC’s do whatever it takes to make campers smile.  They’ll wear a crazy costume, bang drums and jump up and down when someone yells “Flamingo Bingo!”.  They give the best piggy-back and shoulder rides and have a way of cheering someone up who might feel just a little bit down.

Giving up a driver’s license, cell phone, social media and video games is not something that comes so easy for a sixteen year-old.  But each of these extraordinary men are strong, intelligent, confident and wise.  They have a good handle on what matters and is most important in life.

We’re proud of our JC’s and are grateful that they’re here.  Our hope is to build them into incredible counselors, so they continue to make a positive difference in the world, one kid at a time.

It’s Tournament Day at Camp Skylemar!  Bacon Fest, Volleyball and Fresh/Soph Tennis.

The Snow Field was festival-like and exciting, with eight teams of Cubs and Tigers competing in a Skylemar favorite, Steal the Bacon.  The intensity of these little guys drew a big crowd of spectators.  Those not playing could also try Wiffleball, Jackpot, Kan Jam, Mini Lax, Frisbee Golf or Speed Test.  Music blasted from giant speakers, and Blake came down with his Gatorade truck.  Seniors and Stars had a Volleyball tournament of their own.  Meanwhile, Freshmen and Sophomores held a tennis tourney on the eight courts.  Needless to say, we had a lot going on.

Steal the Bacon (aka “STB”) is played on a grass “court” with players from two teams facing each other, each assigned a number (1-5 with 5 on a side).  A tennis ball (the bacon) is placed in the center between the two team player lines.  The ref calls a number, and the two opponents try to grab the bacon and bring it back across their line without being tagged.  There’s a lot more to it (ask your son), but that’s the basic premise.  When the two players approach the center, the focus and concentration run deep.  Should they grab the ball and run, or just fake the other out?

There’s something special about STB being reserved for the youngest guys in camp.  Playing it competitively is a rite of passage that most of our older guys have gone through, and they respect how seriously the Cubs and Tigers take the game.

Today, each team was given the opportunity to play two games that would help determine seeding for the tournament. JC DMan’s team got off to a strong start to the round robin play, as Max P, Dillon F, Nolan B, Myles F, Cooper F, Jero and Javier all had impressive performances. It came down to JCs Noah and DMar’s teams for the championship. Even though Chase W and Myer only had a few days to learn the game, they were key players for Noah.   After two hard fought games, Team Markulics emerged victorious as Skylemar’s 2021 STB champions. Oscar L-R, Hayes and Amir were the three stars of the championship match, with Ethan V, Caesar B-H, Thomas L and KJ crucial contributors as well. Coach DMar credited team chemistry and friendship as their keys to success.

Meanwhile, on the Volleyball court…

Eight teams from the Seniors and Stars Divisions competed in a single elimination volleyball tournament. The bracket was arranged with Stars on one side, and Seniors on the other.

In the championship match, it was Sam S, Aidan F, Bennett R, Ethan K, Luke A and Joey M of the Stars competing against Seniors Alex B, Isaac G, Charlie P, Jack P, Leo D, and Zay-Zay.  The Stars got off to a fast start, taking an 11-3 lead before the Seniors came roaring back.  Isaac G’s 8-point serving run was almost enough to complete the comeback, but the Stars held on for the 21-19 championship win.

Then over on the Tennis courts…

Fifty-four Freshmen and Sophomores signed up to compete in the tennis tournament.  The tone was set right from the start, as the tennis staff explained exactly how to cheer (quietly and respectfully) and whose responsibility it is to call balls in/out (the participants in the match only). It was an awesome display of player development and personal style.  Several matches went to tiebreaker rounds, and eventually only Gaines, Holden F, Charlie F, and Will S remained.

After two more very close, competitive semifinal matches, identical twins Holden and Charlie advanced to the championship round.  It took a tiebreaker to decide it as the evenly matched pair battled it out to the finish, with Holden ultimately claiming the title.

Evening Activity was a surprise guest performer.  A professional magician dazzled us all, especially when he made red Gatorade (from Blake’s truck, assumably) come out of a light bulb.  What a way to wrap up a great day!

JOY!

You could feel it in the air this morning as the camp gathered for Clinic Sign-ups.  The sun was shining, and we all felt especially comfortable and at ease together.  Three hundred-some brothers, ages 7 to 27, smiling, laughing and singing along to “I’m A Believer” by Smash Mouth.  Wish you were there to see the invisible love waves.

Counselors presented their commercials, and each time they went to the stage the kids cheered for their own.  “That’s my counselor!” Bode shouted.

First up was our phenomenal golf pro, Steve.   Before talking about his upcoming Color War Prep Golf Clinic, Steve presented the Gold Golf Club award to the one who was most dedicated for the past week.  Congratulations to Nate F (B6)!

Counselor Milly advertised his Archery Clinic, which will include “Big Game Hunt and King of the Court” – somehow played without a court.  The Challenge Course counselors performed a rap-style commercial.  Never disappointing with plenty of showmanship to spare, Trickey Pond’s Ski Dock crew offered “The Best There Ever Was”.   Other choices down at Trickey were the Sailing Clinic and “Sky Try” where you’ll get the chance to break new swimming records.

Lacrosse welcomed both new players and veterans.  They’ll work on how to shoot on the run as well as with your off hand.  Football offered “The Punt, Pass and Catch Challenge”.  “Soccer Team Prep” will cover passing, shadowing, technical finishing and shooting.  SkyPines offered orienteering and fishing for those who haven’t had the opportunity yet.

Gamblin’ in the Gym will include custom workouts.  Those who sign up for Suzie’s Theatre Tech Clinic will get to build giant candy pieces for the play “Willy Wonka”.  ‘3v3’ Basketball is always popular, thanks to our super great hoops counselors.

Shep’s Reading Clinic is a great way to relax and enjoy a good book (or maybe not exactly “good”, but what you have to read for school).  Most exciting was Adam and Blake Shep’s “Kitchen Tools Clinic”.  You get a tour of the big kitchen and learn how everything works.  You even get to help Blake put in a Sysco order!

The hardest part is deciding which Clinic to select.  It’s definitely an independent choice, and it’s really interesting to see where everyone’s going for the next five days during third period.

Lots of sports action in the afternoon.  The Cubs had a great time off camp for a Berry Picking Bonanza.  They went to a private farm and picked enough blueberries for our breakfast tomorrow.

Dinner was delayed due to the weirdest weather yet.  A hail storm!  Then the skies cleared, and the meal was a favorite – cookout!

Spirit Night for Evening Activity.  Once again, those love waves were in the air.  Bunk 11 led the program, and their own Matthew D got honorable mention for the Cool2Care award.  New camper Daniel M of Bunk 13 did too.  Congrats to Nick N (B15) for being awarded the Cool2Care Chain.  He was nominated for being “always nice and he speaks up when someone needs them to”.  The second chain went to Ben R (B19) for being “a perfect friend, never mean or rude”.

Lily’s Spirit Night sermonette echoed Shep’s reading about Jon Bon Jovi.  Both Lily and Jovi realized that so much of what they learned through sports applied to life overall.  Lily’s final point resonated with many in the audience.  She said, “You don’t play sports to become a professional athlete.  You play them to become the most professionally kind, compassionate and well-rounded person you can be.”

Aaaaaah! Now this is how Maine weather is supposed to be. Sunny with clear skies and just the right summer temperature, low humidity and a gentle breeze.   It was a good-mood kind of day.

So much to do!  Down at the ski dock the boats never stopped.  They had many days to make up for with all that rain.  Every field and court was buzzing with action, and it was great to finally play some League Soccer, Hoops and Softball too.

Now that we’ve had numerous rounds of negative testing, Dr. Jeff gave the word that it’s ok for kids of different Divisions to play together outside on this glorious day.  Although kids of the same age typically play sports with each other, it’s nice to be able to hang out with older and younger friends a bit, playing games like chess or bocce.

Special “cousin” relationships have definitely developed through cohorting.  Dr. Jeff has encouraged us to “blanket” those who are too young to be vaccinated with groups of boys who are just about entirely vaccinated. Therefore, when we had to be inside for rain, we’d match up the Cubs with Seniors & Stars, Tigers with Sophomores, and Freshmen with Juniors.  The older guys are psyched that they can now officially give piggy-backs to the little ones.

The younger half of camp really looks up to those older.  They talk about this at the Chocolate Factory, while making sweet treats.  Not only do they make something yummy for themselves, but they also get to choose an older bunk to make treats for as well… quite the perk for a “cousin bunk”!

No question, Skylemar boys are warm-hearted.  They may “forget” to listen or make “mistakes” once in a while when it comes to following rules, but they really do know how to show gratitude.  A group of early-morning guys went to The Nest (Luci’s room/office in the Garden Cabin) and decorated water bottles for counselors.  The adorable handwriting and misspellings made each a keepsake.

The Freshmen were especially lucky.  They got to go on “Blakes Great Adventure” to Pineland Farm.  No other people near them — instead there were goats, chickens, ducks, sheep, turkeys, cows, horses, rabbits, peacocks and more.  Afterwards they went to Range Pond State Park for a picnic lunch and beach fun.

Lip Sync Battle for Evening Activity.  It’s a night of laughs and cheers, when each bunk takes the stage to perform a dance to the song of their choice.  Even the most reserved get silly, so it’s especially fun to watch.  Truth be told…Skylemar counselors can dance!

They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day.  We beg to differ.  Without a doubt, it’s dinner.

Whether at camp or at home, a casual dinner bookends the day.  It’s a comforting window of time to talk about what went well or perhaps not so well.  Typically here it’s just regular old impromptu conversation around the table, but sometimes there’s a question of the day or even the simple game “guess what I’m thinking”.  The togetherness piece is the valuable part, no matter where you are.

The boys rave about Skylemar food and call it “amazing!”  Chefs Junior, Benjamin, Carlos and their crew do a fantastic job of making it taste great and providing plenty of it.  The kids think it’s a huge buffet of choices each meal, but actually, it’s not much different than a meal you’d serve at home.  One main course, side dishes, salad and at dinner, dessert (yet another reason this meal is important).

Here we take the Subway approach.  We keep the pieces of the meal separate so kids can have choice within a handful of options.  For example, if dinner is spaghetti, you have the choice of no sauce, marinara or sauce with meatballs.  Then you decide if you want parmesan cheese.  One entrée can end up on a plate five different ways.

The Skylemar chefs do have some secrets, and for the first time in history, we’re willing to share:

• The secret to Skylemar grilled chicken?  Pound the boneless breasts, marinate in Italian dressing and grill.
• The secret to Skylemar meatballs?  Use a mix of half ground beef and half ground turkey.  Add breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, egg, seasoning and bake at 350 degrees.  The turkey cuts down on the fat.
• The secret to Skylemar lasagna?  Skip the ricotta cheese.  Layer noodles, sauce (we skip the beef too) and mozzarella cheese.
• The secret to fine ground beef for tacos?  Add a cup or two of water.  Water makes the beef crumble.
• The secret to making perfect rice?  Use boiled water following the standard rice to water ratio.  Bake in foil-covered 9×9 pan at 350 degrees for 30 minutes.
• The secret to getting the boys to eat their vegetables?  Put whatever’s leftover in soup.  Leftover salad bar items go into a giant blender with frozen fruit and apple juice for a delicious smoothie.  Make sure the fruit is either red or blue, because a green color is a vegetable give-away.

Here’s a frequently requested recipe for “Carlos Potatoes”:

3 pounds red skin potatoes

6 tb butter

3 tb minced garlic

5 oz Minor’s or Herb-Ox beef base

2 tb parsley

Cube and parboil potatoes.  Drain and spread on sheet pan.  Add other ingredients, toss to coat.  Bake at 425 degrees for 20 minutes.

As for Junior’s Special Chicken Tender Sauce?  Sorry, but that’s a real secret.

From a glass half-full perspective, we did get out on the fields and courts today.  What’s come to be a daily rain event passed us by until after lunch.  At times we just accepted that we’d be wet anyway, like at the waterfront.  We were especially proud of new campers who got up waterskiing, like Thomas T, Connor B, Matthew R and Sebi.

The talk of the morning was about Backwoods, where kids learn about survival skills like how to build a campfire.  Today they explored the age old question:  Can you start a fire by rubbing two sticks together?

Perhaps potentially, but not really.  It actually takes some string as well.  It’s far more practical to use flint and steel.  Director Sid first demonstrated how to use an actual rock for this, which is definitely the hard way.  It was still challenging nevertheless to use the “flint and steel fire striker”, but Daniel M, Barron and Henry B were successful.  Jagger was even able to burn a leaf with a magnifying glass.

Now you know why we keep an extinguisher handy!

The golfers made it to the Bridgton Country Club, but had an hour’s rain delay.  Meanwhile, Gamblin’ was still a go.  That’s when we go to the gym for workouts.  Alex Gamble is the Fitness Director, so hence the name of the period.  Gamblin’ is a time when you challenge yourself to be your best.

After the rain clouds had turned the ground into a sloshy mess, the older kids decided to go ahead with their Gaga period.  A hot shower was definitely required afterwards.

Evening Activity was a surprise trip to see the Harlem Wizards.  We loaded the whole camp on buses and headed to the local high school.  The athletic director at the school was kind enough to let us take over their gym.

Skylemar’s relationship with the Wizards dates back many years to when Lee was a basketball coach.  They’re a talented group of traveling hoopsters who perform in the style of the Globetrotters, displaying a spectacular array of skill and showmanship.

Truth is, Skylemar’s talented Counselor squad was up for the challenge and just as impressive!  Tate, DT, Mitch, Sammy, LT, Colby, Blake and Rems dazzled with their fancy moves, slick ball handling and great shooting (we connected on 5 straight 3’s during one hot streak).  It was a fantastic show, and the Skylemar audience loved it.

The rain can’t stop us!  Good thing – because the forecast is for more tomorrow….

Welcome to the University of Skylemar.  All classes are in-person, and the only prerequisite is a willingness to have fun and be kind to others.

Those who don’t know Skylemar may think that summer camp is just about playing games.  Oh, but there’s so much more to be learned in this “academic” institution.  Here’s a list in random order of just some of the many lessons covered this semester:

The Game of Life:  Play hard, be competitive, but never forget how your actions affect another.

Shoes:  Not only how to keep track of your own, but what it means to figuratively stand in someone else’s.

Problem Solving:  What do you do with one leftover piece of cake when six people want it?

Respect:  Every single person has value and importance.  Remarkable, but we’re 99% the same.

Voice:  How to speak up when something’s wrong.  How to stand up when someone’s mistreated.

Screen Time:  You honestly don’t need it.  Enough said.

Happiness:  The secret to happiness lies in doing for others and appreciating when you get lucky.

The Puzzle:  Figure out a way to handle a situation that might not be so great.  For example, what do you do when you feel homesick?

Practice:  In any one day there are a dozen times to practice kindness. Compassion, too…over and over.

The Littles:  It’s ok to wait a little, be bored just a little or even be a little sad.  You have the power to fix it.

Appreciate:  There really is no place like home.  We take for granted a big bed, always-open refrigerator, tv and yes, a computer.

Love:  We feel it all the time, through the many “micro-happy’s”, like when you get a postcard from home, or a hug from a friend or high five from a counselor.

Flowers Have Power:  We feel good when our belongings are cared for (make your bed!), and we thrive when surrounded by flowers and trees.  Not exactly sure why, but it’s true!

Re-do’s:  Take a safe chance, fail and someone here will help you try again.

Yes, please:  Manners add beauty to the fabric of our lives.

And finally:  Win, lose, play or don’t… just keep it classy.  That’s how we roll.

First day of Second Session, and it poured.  Not just rain, but more like a deluge.  Even most of our early risers stayed in bed until The Morning Show at 8.  The original schedule was literally a wash-out, but Barney had Plan B ready to go.

Rainy can’t stop us from having fun.  The big hit of the day was Catapult Building in the Pavilion.  The kids were spread out on the tables in teams of 3 or 4.  Each was given a bag of supplies, which included duct tape, tongue depressors, straws, paper clips, rubber bands and so forth.  You were given the task of creating a catapult that would launch a ping pong ball off in the distance.  The ball that went the farthest was the winner.  What they came up with was incredible.  Our guys are brilliant.

The Karaoke Dance Party in the Lodge was a blast as well.  The Cubs and Tigers were especially adorable.  Hayes knew all the words to a Beastie Boys song he rapped.  Ethan K and Nolan B sang a song from “The Greatest Showman”.  Asher chose “Just the Two of Us”, while Barron and Balty sang “Bang”.  Counselors provided the backup vocals, and the kids all cheered for each other.

There was a slew of board games to play, plus pool, chess and ping pong.   T-shirt making was super popular over at Chill Top, and a couple of groups loved being in WSKY for video making and photography.

Suzie led Card Sharks in the Rec Hall.  It’s a game show that combines trivia questions and a giant-sized deck of cards.  Suzie’s from Las Vegas, so she knows her stuff.

Mitch and Beags led good old fashioned Dodge Ball in the Gym.  That’s always a hit.

As for Sky II?  They slept, played a little cards, and slept some more.  That’s what you want to do when you’re 14 or 15 on a rainy camp day.

The sky cleared in the afternoon, so we did get out a bit.  Still misty but we’ll take it.  Flag Football, Gaga, Archery, Basketball, Soccer, Lacrosse, Hockey and Tennis.  It felt great to run.

Evening Activity was the Counselor Talent Show.  It was an impressive display of talent and kinda sorta talent.  Cory, Nate, Colton and Suzie did some amazing singing.  Mitch inspired us with a perfect rendition of a rap from “Hamilton”.  Brittany did speed drawing, and Max drank a full bottle of water in one gulp.  Jonathan did real juggling, while Zac’s was imaginary.  There was the “Bunkstreet Boys” who even had a couple of dance steps.  RJ did impressions and Stef could guess his exact body temperature to the tenth degree (confirmed with a thermometer – he nearly got it right).   The night ended with our own Blue Man Group, including black light, rhythmic pounding drums (flipped over trash cans) and neon-colored paint splashing into the night.  Byron played the real drums in the background – he was spectacular, and so was the light show created.

Best part of the show was the audience.  The kids cheered, sang along, clapped and gave standing ovations… Counselors make their kids proud!

The dancing flames.  The crackling sounds.  The radiant energy.

There’s something about a campfire that mesmerizes us.  We stare into it for no particular reason.  Anthropologists hypothesize that it’s an evolutionary thing, tracing back to prehistoric times. Back then sitting around the fire was for survival and perhaps even friendship.  Scientists call it “Caveman TV”, and it’s been known to lower blood pressure.

Sitting around the fire is an essential at a Sky Pines Overnight.  Each night a different cabin gets to go with Sid and Sam, our Outdoor Ed directors.  After setting up the tents, they learn to build a fire and cook on the open flames.  There’s plenty of time for fishing and playing in Trickey Pond.  At night’s end there’s something about the magical flames that helps conversation to flow, and “the time we sat around the campfire at Sky Pines” is remembered forever.

Tonight’s Ring of Champions Campfire had beautiful flames, but this time the vibe was high energy, lively and dynamic.  That’s because Cory is in charge.

Director Cory is one of those rare and amazing people who exudes positive energy wherever she goes.  She’s fun, kind, creative and talented, and you can’t help but feel great around her.  And… she leads a heck of a campfire for 400 people.

She has a phenomenal voice that carries beautifully, and she’s a master of the “repeat after me song”.  She has this way of controlling the audience, where each person feels like they’re having an individual conversation with her, and all are enthralled.  The boys were all-ears as she performed her “candy shop skit”, which included yanking some of the least-likely counselors to be part of her act.

DT had us all standing up and singing along with “Get on Out of My Burrito, Huh”.  S’mores of course, and then here comes Adventure Man.  Adventure Man visits each Campfire and teaches us all survival skills in a funny way.

Rems, Suds and Tate sang “Waiting on the World to Change”.  Rems was especially impressive on the guitar.  No one tells the guys to lock arms and sway, but it’s one of those things that happen here.  Especially when you stare into the Caveman TV.

By the end of the camp season, they’ll have all the skills you’re looking for.  Strategic thinking, conflict resolution, problem solving ability.   They work well in a group setting, know how to negotiate, they’re organized and are good communicators.  They’re responsible, they get along well with peers and are devoted to the cause.  Did we mention hard working?  In just a few short weeks, many of them will be ready for hire.

Still working on your son, but in the meantime, this is who we’re talking about:  Skylemar Counselors.

Before taking the position, George tells each counselor applicant “it’s the hardest job you’ll ever love.”  He says, “if kids don’t make you laugh, this isn’t for you”.  He talks about the magnitude of the position:  round-the-clock mother, father, teacher, coach, big brother and friend.   He tells them to think about it before the lengthy hiring process begins.  Only those considered to be “the best” by teachers and coaches are considered.

The job makes parenting look easy.  Think about the effort it takes to get one or two sets of teeth brushed.  How about seven?  What about the energy required to host a sleepover a few times a year?  How about that giggly, silly, up-too-late party for a straight 42 days?  A little sibling rivalry now and then at your house?  Think about counselors in a one room condo with 8 fraternal twins.  Speaking of the house…how about keeping it clean or at the very least orderly, while all the kids are living inside?

No electronic “babysitters”, like video games or Disney+.   No games on the phone while the grownups finish dinner.   Instead it’s piggy-backs to all the meals, early morning basketball and late night card games.  A Skylemar counselor knows that his time is what a kid values most.

The kids adore Skylemar counselors.  They describe them as “fun”, and “they’re cool”, “they’re chill” and “they play with us”.  The ones who are favorites “know every kids name” and most importantly are “fair”.

What they all have in common is the reason they’re here:  To make the world a better place, one kid at a time.  It’s the mission they live, seven periods a day, plus Rest Hour and an Evening Activity.  They love your son and try their best to make each day shine.

Sure, counselors are not perfect.  Tempers can rise when exhaustion sets in.  Just like at home, it’s tough to be patient when someone’s not listening, when a few are arguing, you’re late for teaching baseball and then the toilet overflows.

But for every one of those not-so-perfect times, there are 100 great ones.  We watch our counselors dry tears and tie shoes, give hugs and high fives, encourage and forgive.  The gratitude we feel for these fine men who give their summer to our Skylemar boys never ends.

Crimson Tide, Fighting Irish, Green Wave, Orange, and Longhorns…what do they have in common, other than the fact that the first 4 (all except the Longhorns) are part of an answer to one of the great collegiate trivia questions — How many collegiate teams can you name that have nicknames NOT ending with the letter ‘S’? There are actually 13, but nope, that’s not it!

Instead, these 5 great institutions with storied traditions – Alabama, Notre Dame, Tulane, Syracuse and Texas – today, became part of one of Skylemar’s oldest traditions, Intercollegiate Day.

The boys had been divided up among the 5 universities a few days ago, and until today, had only met to rehearse their teams’ songs and cheers (more on that to come).  These 5 schools were chosen by each team’s counselor leaders to compete in a day filled with athletic events and a special regatta down at Trickey, and a night filled with Songs and Cheers to determine the overall IC Day winner.  The boys competed in the same 7 “classes” (this is school, you know) as usual (Cubs, Tigers, Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, Seniors and Stars), and all would participate in the same 6 events, too, each division rotating from one venue to the other throughout the day.  Some of the traditional events have been tweaked a bit by mastermind IC Day Director Nick Shep, who somehow found a way to enhance this annual competition into the most fun-filled, spirited IC Day ever!

And here’s how it went…

After breakfast and morning bunk inspection, a spectacular Maine day greeted the participants as all teams headed to the Snow Field for the official opening of this, our 73rd edition… and the Dash, one of the most celebrated of all IC day events. Nick Shep set the scene and called the runners to the starting blocks.  One sprinter per class for each team gave it all he had in a true test of straight speed, resulting in seven of the best races seen in years.  After Max P (B6) pulled away in the Cubs race to win for Syracuse, teammates Roman (Freshmen, B11) and Eddie (Sophomores, B17)) won their class races as well.  Grant (B25) won the Seniors for Texas, but a trio of ND Fighting Irish claimed the other 3 races – Jordan H (Tigers, B9) and Tosh (Juniors, B22) won tight races, then all watched Stars veteran DMar prove that he’s “the fastest man in camp”.

The boys then dispersed to compete in the 6 athletic events, moving from one contest to the next, by class, all over camp throughout the rest of the day (with a break for lunch, and of course, more songs and cheers practice).  Gaga created as much noise as any with both pits in use.  Each game began with all of the teams’ class participants inside the Octagon, in a 5-team round robin format, to determine the winner. A combination of Newcomb/Spike Ball for the younger classes, and Volleyball for the Upperclassmen, gave us the most competitive fun in the sand all summer. Down on the Snow Field, the older guys “survived” the intensity of a game they assumed they had long outgrown, but the Underclassmen still showed that STB belongs to them, as every game was decided by a single point. So exciting!

Buoyball, a Skylemar legendary creation (think baseball with a buoy (bat) and tennis ball), has been played here for years – but not with a kickball!  Both the Middle Diamond and the Freddie Pierce had games going all day, and the kids showed an amazing affinity for hitting and fielding an oversized ball (again round-robin style to determine order of finish (1^st to 5^th).  At Blacktop Hoops on both basketball courts, each class competed tourney-style, with 3v3, 4v4, and 5v5 games at all levels. The Juniors provided the most exciting Hoops contest of the day, when the very close, half-court 3v3 contest became engulfed with supporters, surrounded by most of the teams who had finished their morning activities. The last bucket was hard to come by, but when Sam M drove the baseline and scored to win it for Notre Dame, he was mobbed by the Irish faithful…quite a scene with Color War intensity!  The most non-stop action, though, had to be Lightning, a fast-paced soccer “knock-out” style game that kept everyone involved, even after apparent elimination (but with a chance for reinstatement on every shot taken or save made) – a revolving motion of passing, shooting, and goalie play.

Another special addition to the program began yesterday, when each team’s Stars participants were tasked with constructing a boat made of only cardboard and duct tape for the IC Day Cardboard Boat Race.  The boats were completed in just a few hours, then were blindly put to the test today, just after Rest hour, before the afternoon activities began.  The entire camp watched as the 5 boats made a valiant attempt to cross the ‘A’, but only Eli (B26) and his Green Wave vessel was successful for Tulane – entertaining the 200+ delighted onlookers.

With the daytime activities complete, all attention turned toward the evening closing event – Songs and Cheers.  Actually, this IC Day finale began long before the actual performance itself, as each team’s counselor leaders have been writing and preparing their set of 5 songs (Team cheer, Camp cheer, Team Fight song, Old Camp song, and Original Camp song) into the wee hours for days to get ready – all for the purpose of putting on that one best performance that might carry their team to victory.

And what a wonderful night it was.  Under the light of a starry night, the spirit of Skylemar came shining through.  The Team Fight songs and both cheers (Team and Camp) were energetic and lively, the Original Camp songs creative and heartfelt, and the Old Camp songs poured out with a pride several generations strong.  Several “collegians” performed as soloists/duets/trios/quartets amongst the 5 presentations – with teammates, bunkmates, counselors, and brothers locked arm-in-arm.  Necks strained and voices cracked, but somehow this was still the greatest show on earth!  The toughest job of the day was bestowed on judges Nurse Julie, Blake and Adam Shep who huddled backstage after with the task of deciding this one…until a few moments later when they handed Nick Shep their decision.  The crowd became silent as Nick thanked everyone for an amazing day – and proclaimed the 2021 IC Day winner…Syracuse University!

There are very few things in the world that we can’t control.  One, which we tell the kids about all the time, is that you can’t control another person’s behavior.  You can only control your own, setting an example for how you’d hope others to be.

The other that comes to mind is the weather.  No matter how we plan, the no-rain dance we do or what accuweather.com predicts, it is what it is when it comes to the rain.  Today’s radar predicted an hour of drizzle, but the clouds had another idea.

It’s called “the art of the stall”.  It’s what Shep pulls out when the kids are ready to head back to the bunk from breakfast, and the WeatherBug app says the rain is supposed to stop in 5 minutes.  But it doesn’t.  So… he decides to have an “outfit of the day” contest, between Luci and Tennis Director Ted.  The two must strut down the pseudo-catwalk of the Pavilion, and the kids got to cheer for whoever they thought was best dressed.  Mitch’s “applausometer” measured the decibels, so of course the kids screamed louder and louder.  End result – a successful 20 minute delay, which was long enough for the rain to subside.

Still too wet for regular outdoor activities, so we switched to IC Day Song Practice.  Tomorrow you’ll learn all about how the camp is divided into five college teams for a competitive day.  The most points are awarded in the Songs & Cheers evening event, so now was a good time to teach the words to the songs.  The counselors spend a tremendous amount of time writing, and they soon learn how difficult it is to get 40 boys to memorize words and sing in unison.

Still misty in the afternoon, but we played outside anyway.  Bunks 13, 14, 25 and 26 were lucky – they got to go ice skating in Bridgton.  The JC’s got away for a bit too.  They went on a private tour of Colby College.

COLORFUL CARNIVAL for Evening Activity!  The weather was dreary, so Shep had us put on our brightest clothes and bring on the fun.  Each cabin had their own booth to run in shifts, so that everyone had plenty of time to get around to play the many different games.  There were clowns and dressed up characters, music and plenty of treats.  The snowballs were yummy, especially with marshmallow on top.  The Kitchen Staff served fresh fried dough, but you had to play Limbo to get some.

Never a dull moment, rain or shine.  And tomorrow it will shine.  The stars in the sky tell it like it is!

She’s a one-man-show, jack-of-all-trades, talented singer, dancer and actor.  She’s sugar and spice and everything nice.  She’s the greatest drama director in the country.  She’s….

SUZIE!  SUZIE!  SUZIE!  (as the camp chants)

Best of all, Suzie knows boys and understands how to make drama cool and fun.  Never frustrated (well, almost never…), she appreciates that boys can’t sit still, or that they’d rather play soccer sometimes, or that a shower has to happen before rehearsal.  Thinking about auditioning?  All you have to do is tell her that you want a small, medium or big part.  The final cast is always a mix of ages, and despite the disjointed rehearsals due to cohorting, the show always miraculously comes together.

Tonight’s Big Show, “Elf” was Suzie-style all the way.  The kids were fantastic and adorable, and the audience watched intently.  It was a happy play, with vivid scenery, holiday lighting and cheerful costumes.  Eighteen boys were in the cast, and it was amazing how well they knew their lines and choreography.

The flow of a Suzie production is especially impressive.  She uses colored tape backstage to mark off where each boy’s costumes are kept, as well as where they’re supposed to stand quietly, or at least try.  In addition to the cast, 39 boys signed up for stage crew.  You see the word is out that if you’re in the stage crew, you’re part of the pizza party that follows. Instead of capping her stage crew to just a handful, she went ahead and gave each boy one single task.  Somehow, with just one run-through of the whole play (kind of …it was during a flag football game), it all went exactly to plan.  Like the unicorn she played for Sade’s Palace, Suzie is magical.

As to the one-man jack-of-all-trades part?  She does it all.  Casting, costuming, set design, props, choreography and directing.  She gets some much appreciated help with painting from Diane, Brittany and the kids, and welcome assistance from George H and Nate on the lighting and sound, but Suzie is one of those people in the world who knows how to make things happen.

Thank you, Suzie, for making the Gerhard Stage come alive!

The Cast of “Elf”

Santa Claus                        Noah (B25)

Buddy Scene 1-3               Eddie (B17)

Buddy Scene 4-7               Rowan (B17)

Buddy Scene 8-12             Aidan (B17)

Walter Hobbs                    Tyler (B20)

Emily Hobbs                      Dylan (JC)

Jovie                                    Xander (B17)

Chadwick                           T.I. (B17)

Walter                                 Cooper (B8)

Deb                                      Eli (B8)

Macy’s Manager               Noah (B28)

Mr. Greenway                   Nolan (B5)

Charlie/Kid/Elf                  Ethan (B2)

Barnard/Elf                        Eli (B1)

Elf/Policeman                    Jagger (B5)

Elf/Security Guard            Luca (B5)

Elf/Security Guard            Ethan (B7)

Clinic Sign-ups!  The whole camp gathered in front of the Rec Hall, eager to watch the exciting show.  Counselors performed skits called “commercials”, advertising what they’ll be offering during the Clinic Period in the days ahead.  After everyone presented, each camper independently chose what he’d like to do for an hour each day through this coming week.

First up was ‘3 v 3’ Hockey, presented by a group of former campers who are now counselors.  Next was Boating & Bracelets, where Diane and Mary Beth of Chilltop fame join forces down at Trickey with the boating counselors — you get to make bracelets on the beach, and take out a kayak, canoe or sailboat too.

Ted then took the stage with his signature raspy “aaaaaaah” (that the kids just love to repeat back), presenting his High School Tennis Clinic, geared towards those who want to make the tennis team at school.

Shep’s Great Adventure Clinic is a backlot tour of Skylemar.  You get to see all the places that the campers usually don’t get to go, like the Maintenance Department and the Kitchen (and the ice cream freezer).

Positional Skill Building for Lacrosse — you’ll learn to be a better attackman, goalie or defenseman (includes full-pads scrimmaging too).

Known for their outstanding commercials, The Ski Dawgs again did not disappoint.   You’ll progress from boom to short rope to long rope to slalom in no time with these expert waterskiing instructors.

Our favorite golf pro, Steve, offered his Straight & Far Golf Clinic. You get the opportunity to work towards earning the Gold Golf Club … and if you work harder than ever, you might have potential for the Green Jacket Award.

Fantasy Football includes mock drafts and lots of discussion.  Shoot & Dribble Basketball offers a welcome opportunity for all to hone your hoop skills (divided up by age on the courts).

Bishballerstine Monster Baseball was the funniest commercial of the day, and offers extra work on fielding, hitting for contact, hitting for power, throwing and baserunning.

Gamble offered Advanced Strength and Conditioning for our oldest campers.  The Giant Swing down on the Challenge Course was inviting for all ages.

Milly Rock Archery gives you the opportunity to work on the Golden Bow Award.  Sid & Sam’s Survival Skills Clinic covers shelter building, fire making, hiking and more.

Last but not least was Indigenous Cultures and Cuisines at the SkyDeck.  Wow!  How do you pick?

Wild Game Hunt for Evening Activity.  That’s when the counselors hide, and the campers seek.  It’s a favorite night for the kids, and a stressful one for their camp director.  Counselors seem to climb higher and higher into the trees every year.  All down safe and sound…though some never found!

Our crystal-clear, always refreshing, sparkling gem:  Trickey Pond.

Considered one of the cleanest bodies of water in the State of Maine, Trickey Pond is about two miles long, a half mile across, and about five miles in perimeter.  Fed by underground springs, Trickey is 55’ deep and home to landlocked salmon, trout, splake and small mouth bass.

Trickey’s also home to 200 joyful, splashing boys, who love this place more than any other.  In Maine, a “pond” and a “lake” are essentially the same, with only sunlight differentiating the two.  Sunlight penetrates to the bottom of a pond, but a lake gets no sunlight.  Our pond has the highest water quality designation from the Maine Department of the Environment, and the pristine water is clean enough to drink.  So we do all day!

We have wonderful neighbors living in year-round and summer homes across the way, who say that they wake up to our bugle.  One honored us with the title “Protector of the Pond”. Because Skylemar’s land spans over half of the lake’s length, a good portion of shoreline is untouched forest – ideal from an environment protection standpoint.

There’s a Skylemar alum on the other side of the lake as well.  In fact, the past two early mornings a total of 178 “Skylemar Polar Bears” (125 campers and 53 staff) swam across the lake and landed at the Finkelstein’s house (aka Bunk 71).  There, all were given a red and gray bracelet as well as a delicious donut.  Thanks to Assistant Director “Alaska” (who arranged the groupings for safety) and our large Waterfront staff who swam and boated along with the kids; the Polar Bear Swim is something the boys will always be proud to have accomplished.

The accomplishments never seen to end at the Skylemar waterfront.  Peter Solomon, the greatest Waterfront Director in the entire world, does an extraordinary job of balancing learning with fun.  He teaches his staff of collegiate swimmers, trained sailors and expert waterski instructors how to teach all abilities with patience and encouragement.

Peter conducts a symphony of activity, orchestrating a rotation of swimming lessons, ski dock activities, non-motorized boating (sailing, kayaking, stand up paddle boards) and free-play on the giant inflatables.  Swim lessons are customized to particular abilities, but it’s important that everyone has a great time in the water.  That’s why we wear life jackets when we play on the trampoline, swing, Beast (the giant slide), Pontoon and Iceberg.   If we stick with the rule that everyone wears a lifejacket, a strong swimmer can have fun with one who’s not as proficient yet.

So thank you, waterfront staff.  We’re grateful that you keep us safe and happy – always smiling down at Trickey!

Please consider a tax deductible contribution to:

Trickey Pond Environmental Protection Association

P. O. Box 417, Naples, ME  04055

IT’S SADE’S PALACE!!

The only casino in the world where the house never wins!

Every patron gets $1,000 in Skylemoney as they walk through the grand entrance.  Food and drink are comped of course.  After all, it’s a star-studded night.  The Palace is the place to be and be seen.

There were Wheels of Fortune, Craps, Poker, Blackjack, Checkers and Chess.  Lots of dice games, and of course slot machines.  There was Karaoke in the Skylemar Star Lounge, with some remarkable talent.  A fortune teller was on hand to predict if this was your lucky night.

George’s Grill served root beer, ice cream and pretzel-rod cigars.  Fortunately, three municipal trash men (one named Shep) were there to maintain Sade’s high standards of clean.  Gotta keep up that five-star rating, you know.

The crowd roared when Matthew H (Bunk 10) won the Megabucks.  He took home over a million with a single ticket purchase.

It was a who’s who celebrity roster this beautiful evening.  There were Shark Boy and Lava Girl, The Powerpuff Girls, a bunch of tourists, some hula dancers and a couple of heavyweight boxers.   There was Thing 1 and Thing 2, Spiderman, Dorothy and Toto, a cowboy, and Joe Exotica with his tiger, and Steve Harvey along with some Miss America candidates.  The cast of Star Wars made an appearance, and check this out…Bruno Mars! We were truly honored that The President, along with his Secret Service, spent the entire evening with us.

Big shout-out to Director Suzie and her amazing costume closet!

After a round of complimentary glow sticks, The Bank was open for business.  Well-mannered patrons exchanged wads of cash for a full selection of prizes.  There were trinkets and toys, inflatable balls and best of all, fuzzy dice.

Sade, for whom the Palace is named, was smiling down from heaven this evening.  She was our founder Lee’s sister (and this writer’s favorite aunt) who lavished love and attention on every boy since the day Skylemar opened in 1948.  It is with this special night that we celebrate her and the greatest guys in the whole wide world.

To Facetime or not to Facetime.  That is the question.

On one hand, it feels great to check in with those you love.   Following a year of parent/child togetherness, during a camp season without Visiting Day, it feels especially appropriate to at least have a five-minute chat once every 10 days.  The kids enjoy showing off their friends and their Skylemar home, and parents love seeing that great big smile.

That is, if he’s smiling.  Every once in a while, a call can be tough.  There could be 50 great things in a day, but when one goes awry (someone was “mean”, “annoying” or “I struck out at baseball”), the call can go awry too.  We want our children to tell us everything and anything, and sometimes we get what we ask for.

We know for sure that Skylemar is more important for a boy than ever before.  Being here means the opportunity to make two hundred friends, to take safe chances, to play sports and games from 7 to 7, to feel relaxed and not pressured.  Here you get lots of high-fives and hugs from college guys who are a whole lot cooler than “real grownups”.  On the other hand, being at camp also means that you’ll probably find someone in your cabin to be annoying.  It means getting upset when someone hurts your feelings.  It means missing mom or dad.

As parents, we strive to get everything “just right” for our kids.  We find the right school, the right rec league and certainly the right summer camp.  We strategize with other parents about how to get him in the right class, on the right team and yes, in the right bunk.

But think about this:  Perhaps in our efforts to get things so perfect, kids aren’t learning what to do when things aren’t just right.

You’ve heard this theory before.  The psychologists call it “resilience”.  At Skylemar, we call it “bounce-back-ability” and “making the most of hand you’re dealt”.

So what about those Facetime calls?

If your son sounds great and everything’s going his way, maybe ask him what he’s done for others, what he did right when nobody was looking or how did he make someone smile.

If he sounds sad or upset while explaining a situation, maybe try asking, “So what do you think you can do about it?”, “how did you handle it?”, “which grownup did you talk to?” or “what did you do instead?”  If he says, “I don’t know”, then help him with choices.

Today a parent asked their son, “What did you do in the rain?”  The boy said, “nothing”.  The exhausted counselors in the room had to laugh, for this was our rainy day schedule:

Cubs and Stars (youngest and oldest) had the Great Bake & Build Challenge.  Dr. Jeff has encouraged us now to “wrap” those who are unvaccinated with those who are, so today we matched groups accordingly.  Some of the “bigs” helped the “littles” with Gingerbread Bunk Decorating, while others got on the floor to build structures from the biggest pile of LEGOs the boys had ever seen.

The Freshmen had “Card Sharks”, which is a game show played under the Pavilion.  Sophomores had games in the gym, while Tigers played ping pong, pool and foosball.  Juniors had Paparazzi and board games, while the Seniors had Chilltop and Chocolate Factory.

And that was just the first hour.  There were four periods of activities like the above.  Meanwhile, piles of board games were delivered to cabins for “Bunk Time”.

Indoor Campfire for Evening Activity.  We sang “Boom Chicka Boom”, “Aristishaw” and “Chicken Fry”.  There were funny skits including “The Dating Game” between those dressed up like our camp dogs Moose, Trix, Cubbie, Finn and Summit.

Oh yeah… make-your-own sundaes for 400 this afternoon.

Take that, tropical storm Elsa!

Relationship building, communication and trust.  That’s what a Challenge Course period is really all about.

Director Dave and his dedicated Challenge Course team kick things off with a creative icebreaker activity on the Snow Field.  Then it’s into the woods for the low and high elements.

The low elements consist of cables between trees, assorted obstacles, swinging ropes and balancing platforms.  Each is designed as a challenge for both the group and the individual.  For example, take the Nitro Crossing.  For this activity the group must strategize a way to retrieve a rope using a foot loop, and then they have to get the entire group and a can of water (the “nitro”) over to the other side without spilling.  Bunk 20 had a unique plan.  They decided to take off their shirts and tie them together in a way to help them to achieve the goal.  Of course the shirts ended up wrinkly, but they made it to the other side.

The high elements involve the use of harnesses, helmets, belay gear and supportive teams on the ground.  It takes tremendous courage and will power to climb the tree to the zip line, scale the inclined log or to leap across the multi-line traverse.  The Challenge Course is a good place to take a safe chance, especially when friends and staff are guiding and encouraging.

Each participant is given specific responsibilities at the Course.  There are numerous safety procedures in place, both on the ground and in the trees.  It typically requires a staff of seven to execute the activity, and usually it’s just a couple of bunks there at a time.

The final wrap-up on the ground includes a debriefing discussion.  The guys talk about what worked and what didn’t, and they “spotlight” each other with positive praise.  If you didn’t try climbing today, there’s always tomorrow!

Tonight’s Evening Activity was the Divisional Parties.  That’s when each group goes to a different part of camp for pizza and a movie.  The luckiest were the Tigers.  They got to be in the Counselor Barn.

Heard this today: 

“My mom can’t talk until she has coffee.” 

We understand.

Going away from home for the very first time is an enormous step.  It’s a giant leap of faith that many don’t take until they’re at least 18.  Don’t mean to rush things, but Skylemar guys are ready for college.

Of course you’ve done all the prep work, but it’s amazing to see what a boy can accomplish all by himself.  He adapts to sharing a bedroom with a room full of brothers, makes his bed daily and even figures out how to clean a sink.  He keeps track of his own things (well, sort of…) and learns to survive without yelling, “Mommm!…or…Daaaad!  Where’s my soccer jersey?”  Instead he just wears a lacrosse jersey.

On Trickey Pond there’s plenty to do for the very first time that makes you feel better than ever before.  For some, it’s the first time swimming in a lake. It’s reassuring to see how clear the water is and to feel the sandy smooth bottom.   Learning to sail and getting up waterskiing has life-long impact, and proves the theory that if you try, you will succeed.

There are quite a few first times here which the boys remember well into adulthood.  Hitting a home run over the Fred Pierce Fence is a rite of passage, and many alums return to keep trying.  Same with a bullseye on the archery range.  The sweet sound of the arrow smacking into the gold center of the target is never forgotten.

When it comes to food, there are lots of chances.  There are new ones to try and plenty of choices to make.  For example, tonight’s menu board read “Pot Roast” as the dinner entrée.  Although we New Englander’s didn’t give that a second thought, a surprising number of kids asked, “what’s pot roast?”  Even more surprising was the number of guys who tried it for the first time and said, “it’s amazing”.  The post-meal discussion determined it was really just brisket or roast beef, depending on where you’re from.

The most powerful firsts involve settling an argument, standing up for what’s right and figuring out that the secret to happiness involves doing for others.  It’s all in an average day here at Skylemar, where everything is anything but average.

Big announcement from Barnicus, the Warrior of Clean … this morning.  It’s GACU!

That stands for Great American Clean Up.  Each Division gets a period devoted to the “cleanliness trifecta”.  This includes a health check-in at the Infirmary, showering/laundry-put-away at the cabin, and a visit to The Spa.

Funny how word gets around.  We once had a prospective parent on the phone who asked if it was really true that we had a spa at Skylemar.  She thought maybe we were too fancy…

Our “spa” is just a way of getting it done.  Gotta clip those nails and scrub those flip-flop feet.  Might as well do that with a little Zen music and cucumber slices on the eye lids to make it fun.  At the Infirmary, our phenomenal nurses take temps, do lice checks, and give reminders about looking out for ticks and brushing teeth.

It was also a League Day for many of the Divisions.  That’s when you play competitively for a double period within your age group.  Cubs and Stars had League Football; Tigers and Seniors had Hoops.  The other groups have theirs tomorrow.

After a full day of exhausting outdoor activity, relaxing on the lawn for Spirit Night was welcome.  Spirit Night is a time of appreciation and gratitude, that includes traditional readings, lessons to learn from, camp songs and popsicles.  Our leaders were from Bunk 18.

Here’s the structure of this Skylemar tradition:  First we sing “We Meet Again in Gladness”, and then there’s a poem that touches on a positive theme.  We light a candle (kinda – it’s battery operated) and the responsive reading goes like this –

We light this candle in fellowship with our friends

We light this candle with love for our families

We light this candle in gratitude for all those who have helped us

We light this candle in the hope of peace, kindness and compassion

We light this candle to reach out to those in need

We light this candle for those who are not here now.

We light this candle to see within and brighten our days ahead.

Next, we recite the Prayer for Our Country and sing a patriotic song.  Shep reads aloud on a topic that resonates with all.  For example, he taught us about Hank Aaron, and shared an impactful quote.  Aaron said, “The best will always hit their pitch.”

Counselor Ryan gave the sermonette.  He explained that sports do not define us.  They can drive us to be better but should never drive us apart.  He spoke about the difference between “kindness” and “nice”.  Kindness goes deeper.  It’s when you’re nice all the time, even when nobody’s looking.  Ryan challenged us to be who we want to be.  That’s not just in sports, but as an all-around Skylemar family.

Two of our kindest received the Cool2Care Chain this evening.  Congratulations to Andrew B (Bunk 30) and Max Baum (Bunk 10) for being shining examples of the type of people we should all hope to be.

If food is the key to a man’s heart, then that explains why so many nice guys are at Camp Skylemar.  Ours is delish, and there’s plenty of it.

Lucky for us, we have the greatest kitchen staff in the entire world.  Jr, Benjamin, Carlos, Superman, Byron, Adolfo, Fabrizio, Luis, Cesar, Sherri, Lily, David and Blake.  Between them there’s over 70 summers worth of Skylemar experience.  This all-star team knows exactly how to make people happy, and their “whatever it takes” work ethic is second to none.

For this talented crew, it’s Thanksgiving-style cooking for a family of 400 every day.  Three times a day, that is.   They understand that life here revolves around three essentials:  breakfast, lunch and dinner.   Every meal has to be tasty, abundant and somehow pleasing for all.

The quantities are staggering.  600 pounds of wings served for dinner tonight, along with 40 pounds of pasta.  900 burgers grilled yesterday, and 21 turkeys (with 150 pounds of mashed potatoes) the night before.

For breakfast, 720 eggs are cracked and scrambled, over a thousand pancakes flipped and 48 cantaloupes sliced.  After taste testing a number of peanut butter substitutes, we decided on “WowButter” – and go through over 30 pounds per day.  A dollop goes great in oatmeal too, along with raisins, granola and just a touch of brown sugar.

Our double salad bar, served twice daily, takes several people to make possible.  36 heads of lettuce need to be washed and torn, 42 cucumbers peeled and sliced, plus green peppers, tomatoes, and a rotation of other fresh toppings.  Junior’s yummy croutons are a favorite.  They’re made from leftover grilled cheese sandwiches.

Food prep begins weeks before the kids arrive.  Knowing that supply chain issues were predicted, Kitchen Manager Blake Shep, under the tutelage of Rich Snow (our retired food service and maintenance director), created a warehouse of dry and canned goods, so we’d never run out.  Freezers were stocked, and the crew spent days making 12,000 meatballs to cover the season.

A meal is built around what the kids typically like, like tacos, chicken tenders, pizza etc.  Then we add options like vegetables, side dishes, soup, sliced turkey, WB&J (wowbutter & jelly), fruit, yogurt, and PASTA.  40 pounds at lunch and dinner, so even the pickiest eaters have something they like.  The kids love to select exactly what they want from the giant buffet, and it takes 19 non-bunk staff members to serve the four lines.  Thanks to our new outdoor Dining Pavilion, we can use the Rec Hall just for service.

The importance of good food has been a constant at Skylemar since 1948, and we’ve always had a number of finicky eaters.  However, what has changed in recent years is the number of allergies and food intolerances.  This year we have a staggering 83 boys who need labels checked and special attention. We’re grateful to have Lily, a registered dietician, (and a beautiful person, inside and out) managing this.  Each meal or snack becomes a puzzle, and many entrees must be hand-cooked.  She does this all with love, doing her best to make life a little bit easier for those who need her assistance.  In fact, today she bought out a grocery store of gluten-free dino nuggets, knowing this would bring a smile to a handful of kids.

So…if you’re tempted to send a care package, hold back.  If he says, “send me candy”, be strong.  We promise that his plate overflows, and he enjoys plenty of treats.  After all, tonight was Movie Night, and a good concession stand makes the show.

Today, like every day, we celebrated.  Sure, it was the nation’s birthday.  But most importantly, it was a great day to be us.

Shep announced it was a laundry day, and the crowd cheered wildly.  Bet that doesn’t happen at home.  As far as the kids are concerned, it’s a magical system.  The dirty clothes come out of the bongos and into special bags with an opening at the top as well as zipper on the front.  The bags disappear and then two days later miraculously reappear inside the cabin.  You open the bag by the zipper and inside are perfectly folded clean clothes that you simply unpack like a suitcase and put away.  Definitely something to celebrate!

This time we outsmarted the weather.  Barney and Cory prepared three schedules:  one for a washout, one for just the courts being wet, and one if all was playable.  Each was needed, depending on the time of day.

After inspection, which went a little longer because of sheets needing to be changed, the weather turned nasty.  Time to pull out Schedule #1:  Movie morning!  Each Division watched in a different location.  The group in the Pavilion cuddled snuggly in blankets.  The air was almost winter-like, so a snack of chicken noodle soup was perfect.

By afternoon the rain had kinda sorta stopped.  It felt great to run around and play sports, even though we had to hold on basketball, hockey and tennis (Schedule #2).  After three days of rain, playing outside was something to celebrate.

Dinner went a bit longer because of a downpour, but Mitch kept us happy by turning on the tunes.  Of course we sing camp songs here, but there’s something about certain songs that gets everyone singing at the top of their lungs.  Those include (for some unknown reason) “Party in the USA” and “Sweet Caroline”.  They love the “da-da-da” part.

The clouds finally moved out, and we could actually have our regular 7th period (Schedule #3).  Seniors and Stars chose between hockey, Gamblin’ (fitness) and Archery.  Juniors had either Basketball, Volleyball or Chill Top.  Sophomores picked from Lacrosse, Baseball or Yellowhorn.  Freshmen had Football, Golf or Mini Golf.  Tigers headed to Soccer, Spikeball or Gaga, and the Cubs had Tennis, Ping Pong or Chess.

Evening Activity was the highlight.  We brought the entire camp down to the waterfront, because a friend from across the lake was putting on a top-notch fireworks show.  Shep placed each Division in their own “viewing area”.  The youngest cabins watched from inside of a motorboat, so there was no place to wander.

The fireworks over Trickey were amazing, but best of all, the show was here on our docks and beach.  The entire Skylemar family was gathered, which made us feel relaxed, protected and carefree.  Now, that’s a cause for celebration!

The Skylemar Talent Show is far more important than entertainment. For those who perform, it’s about taking a safe chance, being willing to make yourself vulnerable, and building confidence.  For those in the audience, it’s an opportunity to demonstrate Skylemar warmth and brotherhood.  At the Skylemar Talent Show, we are united as a powerful force of joy.

The weather was downright cold.  We thought about having everyone bring sleeping bags and using the outdoor stage and front lawn as usual for the show.  The damp drizzle put the kibosh on that plan, so instead we chose the most loved building at Skylemar…the Rec Hall.

All wore face masks, since only half of Skylemar is vaccinated.  Nevertheless, there was something about being in this 100 year-old building together that made the vibe just right.  Cubs in the front…through to the Stars in the back.  These “old men” of Skylemar (age 15) set the respectful and supportive tone.  Tonight they did not disappoint.

You see some who perform have talent, and some not so much.  Some are bold, while others are timid.  Some acts are silly, and the audience isn’t sure what’s going on.  It’s the self-proclaimed tradition of our oldest campers to make sure the audience is “shushed”, and no matter the act, each is cheered, and they make the performer feel extra great.  Their love waves are contagious, and we all feel the sense of pride that a parent does when their kid is on stage.

Dylan J (Bunk 16) bravely kicked off the night with some excellent breakdancing.  Dash H (B1) played the piano.  Two fingers! Spencer B and Cooper F (B9) did a dunk shot routine; Jack L (B13) recited the digits of pi and Bode (B14) did a standup comedy routine.

Thomas L (B8), Oscar LR (B9), Jordan G (B9), Bronner (B8) and Balty (B5) each did magic tricks.  Ryder (B14) even built a special box to make himself disappear.  The audience loves when a magician asks for a volunteer.  “Meeeeeee!” they all cry, with hands in the air.

Zayne M (B24) wrote and performed an awesome rap about Skylemar.  Coop E (B8) played an original song on the piano that he composed.  Nate C (B20) rolled around inside a bongo-bag.  Amir (B7) did some impressive yo-yo tricks.  Eli D and Jake P (B8) sang some kind of really high-pitched song and Bob (B21) did his annual “Bobservations” (i.e.  “There are 5 doors in this building”).

Jagger (B5) said into the mic, “Hey, guys, I’m gonna paint with my eyes closed.”  But he forgot to tell Suzie that he needed a canvas before the show, so she had to come up with something quick.  A white board and dry erase marker did the trick.  Eli W (B1) did a rubber band trick with his fingers, and Dash L (B3) told some jokes.  Luca F (B5) spoke Spanish.  Xander E and Aidan R (B17) did an “improv”.  Theo and Jake (B10) were all-stars with the diabolo and devil sticks.  There were a few other hard-to-explain silly skit-type things as well.

Ethan V (B2) had some nice dance moves.  Bunk 6 really had their act together with a dance to “Hey Ya” … even the counselors joined in!  Who knew that Hayes (B5) could tap dance so well?  We all knew that Kyle (B21) and T.I. (B17) could dance, and they proved it to “Uptown Funk”.

The crowd was patient and encouraging.  Lots of laughter, cheers and standing ovations.  All participants got to grab a surprise from the special “laundry bag of prizes”.  Those lucky enough to win got the most coveted gift of all:  a Skylemar staff shirt that’s way too big!

Mother Nature pulled a fast one and turned down the thermostat.  We went from shorts and t-shirts to sleeping in sweats.   Today was rainy, blustery, and about 60 degrees.

We have plenty of large indoor facilities here at Skylemar.  But since we’re cohorting by Division, we do our best at creating a Rainy Day Schedule with only one age group inside each building at a time.  That means we get creative with spaces and have activities where you might not expect.

There was Flamingo Bingo in the Rec Hall.  It’s the traditional game with a Skylemar twist.  When the winner shouts “FLAMINGO BINGO!” the JC’s magically run through the crowd, wearing crazy costumes and banging noisemakers.  It’s one of those things you just have to see.

The winner then picks a stunt card, along with a counselor to perform.  If the counselor completes the stunt (which he always does), the whole bunk gets a prize.  For example, counselors had to make a wowbutter & jelly sandwich wearing a blindfold, act out the words to the song “Taps”, pretend they were a ninja warrior, do 30 pushups and burp 5 times in 30 seconds or less.  When counselor Murph successfully pushed a ping-pong ball across the floor with his nose, the entire Bunk 8 jumped into his arms.

Meanwhile, others were at Chill Top making ping pong paddles.  There was Dodge Ball at The Gym, and Suzie’s Famous Trivia under the Pavilion.  One group was at the Chess Tent, while another was at WSKY Media learning about photography and video.  Those at The Lodge played pool, foosball, ping pong and more.

Campers got to dress up in outrageous costumes at the Photo Shoot in the Garden Cabin.  Those at the Chocolate Factory made yummy treats for themselves, as well as for the older cabin of their choice.  The Basement Party was a blast with Lego, bowling, assorted games and surprises.

Evening Activity was Situations.  That’s when each cabin gets a scenario, and they need to act it out.  For example, Bunks 1-6 found gold in the bottom of Trickey Pond.  They had to show how they’d retrieve it and what they’d spend it on.  Bunks 7-9 had to figure out a way to steal the recipe for Chef Jr’s Secret Sauce.  Bunks 10-14 made a commercial for the world’s best Cabin Insurance.  Bunks 15-19 had to come up with a wacky sport for the next Olympics.

As for Bunks 15-30…they got to watch.  They were a great audience who cheered, laughed and encouraged, no matter how silly or untalented the performers were.  That’s a Skylemar tradition for the older guys.

Speaking of talent, we’re super excited for tomorrow night!

A surprise visitor came to lunch.  It was Slugger the Seadog!

Slugger’s the mascot for the Red Sox AA affiliate, the Portland Seadogs.  We typically bring the entire camp to a game around this time, but this year we’re staying put.  If we can’t get there, we’ll do our best to bring it on at Camp Skylemar.

It started with a dance-off between Slugger and some of our most talented counselors:  LT, Noah V, Zach, Glickman, Ashton and Esh.  Each dancer represented one of the counselor teams:  Otters, Ermines, Bobcats, Woodchucks, Lynx and Skunks.  The kids love cheering for their own counselors, and Shep comes up with lots of silly ways for the adults to compete.  In order for kids to have wholesome fun, the grownups have to as well.

After a full day of activities (lacrosse, tennis, soccer, golf, volleyball, hoops, baseball, challenge course, football, archery, hockey plus lots more), it was finally time for the big game.  The Hilltop Hippos vs the Doghouse Drip Dragons on Skylemar’s version of Hadlock Field.

The fans in “the stands” (campers on the hillside) whooped and hollered for their counselors and JC’s.  We marveled at the many home runs smacked over the fence as well as some spectacular fielding.  In between innings there were dizzy bat runs, inflatable pizza & flamingo challenges and a three-legged race.  The round-the-bases run for dogs Trixie and Cubbie was hysterical.  They’re sleeping now…

What’s the favorite snack to eat at a Skylemar Seadogs Game?  Sea Biscuits, of course.  Driver Kristen went to the actual ballpark in Portland to pick up 400 of the tasty treats.  It’s vanilla ice cream sandwiched between two cookies.  A Chipwhich, you might think?  Nope, not at all.  There’s something about the wrapper that makes this far more delicious.

As the game finished and all were in bed, the rain started falling.  Our hope is that the steady rhythm on the roof will bring about some much needed sleep.  We’re a tired bunch here in Naples, Maine.

Nico caught the first fish of his life in Trickey Pond!  Sconsett, Jared R, Holden and Tyler were awarded Gold Golf Balls!  Atticus said today’s birthday party was the “best he ever had!”  Wes K ran for the winning touchdown!

These are the kind of Skylemar moments you remember the rest of your life.  Most importantly, you never forget those who helped, those who were kind, and those who did the right thing.  Tonight we recognized two of those campers with the Cool2Care Chain.

Skylemar’s Cool2Care motto was introduced by Nick Shep to Skylemar back when he was a freshman on the Dickinson College lacrosse team.  He had one of those impactful moments during “captain’s practice” when he wasn’t putting forth his best effort.  Since the coach wasn’t there, he didn’t think it really mattered.  A senior (who later became a Skylemar Lacrosse Director) pulled him aside and said, “Hey, man…it’s cool to care!”  This message was passed on to Skylemar and has become part of our world every day.

We teach that it’s cool to care about others both at home and camp, and it’s cool to care about yourself by being your best.  It’s cool to care enough to standup for someone who’s being mistreated.  It’s cool to care about winning a game by trying your best, but never cool to be a sore loser.  It’s what you do because it’s right, and not because someone’s watching.

Every so often Nick recognizes one or two campers with the Cool2Care Chain.  Those who “wear the chain” (until passed on to another) have demonstrated numerous acts of kindness for the Skylemar community.  Tonight’s recipients were new camper Ethan F (Bunk 11) and veteran camper Syon (Bunk 28).  These two guys are a couple of our many Skylemar stars.

The heart is warmed a dozen times in any one Skylemar day.  Take this morning for example.  Thirteen year-old Harry H was enjoying the lake with a new friend, and they decided to race.  Harry, a skilled swimmer, swam beautifully and clearly out-performed the boy who had the idea for the challenge.   Ahead by half a length, Harry could have easily touched the dock on the other side and the race would have been over.  Instead, Harry flipped over mid-stroke and swam towards the friend.  He then flipped once more and adjusted his pace to that of his opponent.  Harry was still the victor in the end, but he made sure it was a respectable win.

Another heart-warmer was the Counselor Meeting held during Rest Hour.  We talk about what’s coming up in the days ahead, and re-visit important topics discussed during Staff Training Week (today’s topic was role modeling).  A counselor from each cabin gives a quick report about their kids.  He mentions any concerns and shares tips that all on the team should be aware of.

That’s the touching part.  Only three days in, and these never-before parents love their kids. They beam with pride as they talk about how well their boys are getting along (not realizing that it’s been less than 72 hours…).  They speak authoritatively to the others, explaining that one boy needs just a little more patience.  They teach each other the “tricks of the trade”.  For example, how do you make sure that your camper is wearing his retainer to sleep?  You shake the container.  What do you do if your camper wakes up before dawn just a little bit homesick?  According to Counselor Zach F, you take him to mini-golf.

It’s amazing how well the campers and staff are tolerating the heat wave.  Today’s schedule included sports played at half-speed, as well as less athletic activities like Cool Tools.  That’s when Bruce, a brilliant plastics engineer who’s here to inspire the boys, teaches them about hand tools for woodworking.

Drive-In Movie for Evening Activity.  The whole camp watched the giant screen from the Bunkline, relaxing on sleeping bags, under the stars.  Popcorn, candy and a couple hundred friends.  What could be better!

Hot stuff here at Skylemar.   96 steamy degrees during the day, and still a sticky 82 at bedtime.

Shep called it Minimal Speed Monday.    The morning schedule would go as planned, but sports were to be played at a slower pace.  We all carried water bottles, and the Sunscreen & Hydration Golf Cart was constantly on the go.

Morning Announcements included a “commercial” from Barnicus, the Warrior of Clean. It’s our Program Director Barney, who has a way of putting on a costume and making anything fun.  Even cleaning. Barnicus explained daily Inspection Perfection, which happens each morning from 9:15-10.  After breakfast everyone makes their bed, and then each cabinmate tackles a chore to keep the bunk organized and tidy.  Well let’s say tidy-as-can-be, with 9 or so people living in one room.  One guy has sweep, one has dustpan, one has trash and so on.  Don’t get excited…it’s one of those things they only do at camp.

Especially in this heat, we’re grateful for our newly built outdoor dining pavilion.  It’s an enormous 135’ long open-air structure that holds the entire camp sitting at 40 picnic tables.  The fresh Maine air flows right through, which makes it far more comfortable than being inside a building.  Best of all, the whole camp can gather here as one big family, without limitations.

By afternoon it was just too darn hot.  We changed the entire day’s plan to one that had more in the water, along with some relaxing activities.  Skylemar has two beach areas (The Waterfront and Sky Pines) used for swimming, non-motorized boating (sailing, kayaking, canoeing), fishing, snorkeling, waterskiing and wakeboarding.  When you weren’t in the water, there was Dog Treat Making, Archery, Lego Creations, Photography, Chill Top (arts & crafts), Chess, Ping Pong, Yellowhorn (outdoor science), Mini Golf and Yard Games.  The snow cone machine made its debut, and all enjoyed the unlimited flavors.

Tonight’s Scavenger Hunt was a huge hit.  There were six stations that the teams (two cabin groups from the same Division) rotated through.  Each had its own items to find, tasks to accomplish and quiz questions to answer.  For example, at Adam’s Skydeck station the team had to name five types of cheese, write a camp haiku, find something with a sticker on it as well as a piece of clothing with a button.  And of course, each teammate had to “drip” (hand sanitize) before moving on the next station.

Another hot one’s on the way.  Stay tuned for what’s in store.

No rooster required.  As the sun rises, out of the cabin they pour.  By 5 AM the basketballs were “babump babumping” and sets of little eyes eagerly peered into Shep’s “Lighthouse” window.  Counselors give up on the last hour of sleep, realizing that there’s just no way of holding back their family of super excited kids.  It’s the first day of camp!

George’s “Morning Show” airs at 8.  It’s an ESPN-style over-the-PA radio show, that keeps everyone up to date with the latest sports news.  Today’s edition was brought to you by Coop E, Nate R, Reed and Bronner.

Each day a different bunk has the honor of raising the flag, as we stand at attention for the National Anthem.  It’s one of the handful of minutes that the boys actually stay still.

A breakfast of Skylemar’s Famous French Toast Sticks, oatmeal, eggs, fruit and cereal goes well with the morning paper, aka “The Daily Schedule”.  The schedule is custom-made for each day by Barney, our Program Director.  It’s a precise blueprint for where each camper and counselor go at all times.  Who would have guessed we’ve been “contact tracing” for 70+ years.

There are seven periods in a day.  Five are assigned, and two are choice.  For example, Bunk 10 had tennis first period, and then the choice of Lacrosse, Steal the Bacon or Chilltop.  Next, they had Waterfront, followed by Soccer, Yellowhorn and Backwoods. After that was a choice of Football, Mini Golf or Bocce.  In between are three meals, Perfection Inspection and Power Shower Hour.   Sound tiring?  The day also includes Rest Hour.  But even then, they never rest.

The type of activity determines how many cabins attend.  For instance, Golf would be just one bunk, while Basketball would be several of the same age.  We refer to these age groups as “Divisions”.  You’ll soon receive a postcard from your son sharing his cabin number, which corresponds to these Divisions:

Cubs:  Bunks 1-6

Tigers:  Bunks 7-9

Freshmen:  Bunks 10-14

Sophomores:  Bunks 15-19

Juniors:  Bunks 20-24

Seniors:  Bunks 25-27

Stars:  Bunks 28-30

Ring of Champions Campfire was our Evening Activity.  It’s an all-camp event, with songs, hilarious skits and of course, s’mores.   Lots of fun for all ages.

Bring on tomorrow!  We can’t wait!

After a tightly-capped and shook-up year, it’s as if a soda bottle of joy exploded at Camp Skylemar.    The greatest guys in the whole wide world have arrived!

They came by plane, bus and car, ready for friendship-filled happy days.   Saying goodbye to those we love is emotional, so it was especially impressive to watch even our youngest bravely travel without a tear.

After the traditional meal of spaghetti and meatballs, everyone settled into their cabins.  Typically, a “household” is 5-8 boys, plus two or three counselors.  The older groups have more, since long-time friends who have been divided for so long yearned for togetherness.  It feels good to be home sweet home, at Camp Skylemar.

Staff Intros for Evening Activity.  It’s especially fun to hear the kids cheer with pride for their own counselors, whether they’ve known them for years or just a few hours.

As we sing each night, “day is done and all is well”.  Rest assured that your Skylemar star is safe in his bed, surrounded by friends and counselors who care.