Last spring at this time we were lucky enough to have boats in the water. This spring we’re not so lucky. As I write snow is falling and Blue Lake is frozen tight. This may halt the physical preparations of getting camp ready but it won’t halt the anticipated excitement of the gates opening in less than seventy days. I’ve assembled a special staff made program improvements and purchased a few new “toys” for all of you to enjoy. I’m equally as excited for camp to open for the season as I was my first summer in 1989. Last weekend several members of my administrative staff traveled up to camp for a work weekend. We accomplished a great deal in a short amount of time which has us feeling confident about the summer ahead.
Several days ago I had the opportunity to talk with writer Betty Stark who is writing an article on summer camps for Experience Wisconsin Magazine. I was happy to share my thoughts and insights on the importance of the summer camp experience for youth. If you’re interested in reading the article please check out the May issue of Experience Wisconsin magazine when it becomes available.
The benefits of attending an overnight camp are many. The camp community is at the center of camp where we strive to build a camper’s character. Because of camp a child discovers more of who they are and who they want to become. They learn valuable life lessons that can’t be taught in a traditional classroom. Camp helps a child become more independent and self assured. The sense of belonging a camper feels is a powerful force which keeps them returning year after year. We all want to feel we belong and that we are connected. Camp connects staff to campers campers to campers and staff to staff. Living so close to one another for several weeks creates a bond. The longer the stay the stronger the bond becomes. Parents who have attended camp know about the power of the camp experience. Those who’ve never experienced the power of camp have a hard time understanding the passion behind songs and cheers the color wars the pleasure of sailing across the lake or just hanging with your bunkmates.
I’ve chosen to remain true to the traditional camp environment by not allowing electronics at camp. Today’s children are moving at an incredible pace. In a world where emails and texting have replaced face to face communication I want Agawak to be an escape from that world. I want campers to get in touch with nature one another and truly absorb themselves in the camp experience. They can’t do this if I allow Iphones Iputers cell phones smart phones texting and hand held video games. Parents PLEASE make sure that your child leaves their electronic devices at home. This is YOUR responsibility as a parent. When campers can completely disconnect from the “outside” while at camp they can truly focus on themselves and others in a more meaningful and deeper way.
In 2004 following a wonderful reunion at Agawak the Agawak Alumnae Foundation was formed. Since then the foundation has sent over 50 young girls to overnight camps. Those on the committee are doing an excellent job. I’m proud of their efforts. If you would like more information or would like to make a contribution please contact the Agawak Alumnae Foundation Committee at Agawakalum@aol.com. I am also thrilled to announce plans for an Agawak reunion in August 2013. If you are alum and would like to attend the 2013 reunion please reply to Margaux SILVER Sayer at megandbuddy@comcast.net to get your name on the reunion mailing list.
By now all of you should have received your precamp packet and your final invoice. Please fill out your forms quickly and return them before May 1st. I’m so thrilled that you are remembering to attached pictures to the cabin request form. Even though your daughter may be a returning camper I have new staff that have never seen her beautiful face before. Remember to order your camp clothes from Lands’ End early so you’re not waiting on any last minute items. All new campers will receive a Blue or White Team Tp after being placed your team.
This year the CIT Boundary Water Trip will depart July 20th and return July 25th. The PA camping trip will leave Monday June 27th and return June 29th just in time for our annual Halloween bash on the 30th. First session campers remember to pack a costume. This summer Dana Glink and Megan Miller will head up our Blue and White program. Both of them are veteran counselors with solid experience. Beth Grosky and Daniella Mayer will coordinate evening programs. I anticipate this duo will make us laugh all summer long.
Within the next month pictures taken from last summer will be removed from the photo gallery to make room for new pictures. I anticipate the photo gallery being better than ever as Pavel who has a passion for photography and Luci will be working hard to improve the quality of the pictures and the variety. My hope is to capture more “camp moments” than just smiling faces. During the next several weeks we will be posting this year’s staff on the website along with a tiny biography. Parents and campers should be ecstatic with the caliber of the staff selected.
Is everyone getting ready to go full speed ahead? I sure hope so. Enjoy all the comforts of home until we’re together sharing in all the comfort camp gives us.
Big Smiles
Mary and Staff