Winter 2012.pub - Maine Summer Camps

Winter
2012
JANUARY 25 — CAMP/BUSINESS LUNCHEON & NETWORKING EVENT,
TRAINING ARE DAY’S HIGHLIGHTS
Join us for a day of events to benefit camp directors and staff on January 25, 2012 at
Camp Ketcha in Scarborough, ME. Everyone is invited to Maine Summer Camps’ Open
Membership meeting, lunch with our Business members, a fun business/camp networking event and a provocative session with Bill Lerman of Camp Caribou on the business
side of running a summer camp. Bill will share perspectives and tips that have worked
for him in his session “More Than a Whistle and a Pair of Sneakers”.
MSC WINTER MEETINGS,
BUSINESS LUNCHEON, & WORKSHOP
WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 25, 2012
Our third annual Business Member/Camp
luncheon and networking event promises
to connect camps with products and services they need. This fun event keeps everyone moving and is a great way to kick
off some 2012 business deals.
Camp Ketcha, Scarborough
9:30—11:00
Board meeting
All are welcome to following events:
11:30—12 noon
Open Membership Meeting
12:15-1:45 pm
Business Member /Camp Luncheon and
Networking event
2—3:30 p.m.
Presentation: “More Than a Whistle and a
Pair of Sneakers —” The Business of Camp “
with Bill Lerman, Camp Caribou
Snow date: Tuesday, Jan 31
Directions to Ketcha: From I-95 South, I-95
North. Take Exit 42, Route 1, Scarborough.
Drive 0.5 miles. Merge onto Haigis Parkway.
Drive 1.4 miles. Turn Left onto Route 1. Drive
1.3 miles. Turn Right onto Route 207, Black
Point Road. Drive 2.8 miles. Camp Ketcha is
on the left, just before Route 77.
From I-295 North I-295 South. Take Exit 2,
Route 1, Scarborough/Old Orchard Beach
Drive 2.1 miles on Scarborough Connector.
Merge onto Route 1. Drive 1.1 miles. Turn
Left onto Route 207, Black Point Road. Follow above directions to Ketcha. Ketcha street
address is 336 Black Point Rd, Scarborough,
ME 04074
Don’t Miss It!
Bill Lerman of
Camp Caribou
presents
“More Than a Whistle & a
Pair of Sneakers — the
BUSINESS of Camp”
ME SUMMER CAMPS MARKETING EFFORT ROLLS OUT NEW WEBSITE
Maine Summer Camps recently notified all member camps of the newly enhanced website promoting summer camps in
Maine at mainecamps.org. The site is now even more useful to parents seeking summer camps for their children. The
search tool allows a parent to email themselves a list of camps they want to follow up on. In addition, there is more information for parents about the value of camp, why Maine is a great state for camps, and preparing for camp. The web
upgrade was supported by donations from member camps and some very special business sponsors as part of an overall
marketing effort. Thanks to everyone who is supporting the marketing effort, and especially to these businesses:
MSC News
Mainecamps.org
Winter 2012
Guest Columnist: Mary Ellen Deschenes
In a few short years, the membership organization now
known as Maine Summer Camps will celebrate its 80th
anniversary. Back in 1934, a group of visionary Maine
camp directors realized that the youth camp movement
was growing very quickly, with 2-3 new camps opening
in Maine every summer. These directors were dedicated
to high ideals and standards for their camps, and were
concerned about the ability to uphold these standards as more and more
camps were founded. In 1934, a meeting to address these concerns was held
at the Lighthouse Inn in Winthrop, presided over by Everett F. Greaton, the
Executive of the Maine Development Commission, and the Maine Camp
Directors Association (MCDA) was born MCDA promoted consistent standards of operations for Maine
camps, which ultimately became part of the first state
camp licensing laws in the country. MCDA was one of
the first professional state camp associations in the U.S. The Genesis of
Although the organization changed to keep pace with Maine Summer
the times, Maine’s state camp association has always
Camps
been strong. Almost since the beginning of summer
— A Brief
camps, the Maine association been in the forefront of
History
the youth camp movement, pointing the way for others.
The MCDA was instrumental in creating the Junior
Maine Guide program in 1937, which provides certification for teens who
master a specific set of wilderness skills. The JMG program continues today,
75 years later. Over the years, the association provided a forum for camps to
learn from each other, work together on regulations and standards, provide
professional development opportunities, and support each other in the unique
field of camping. In 1982, the group enlarged its membership to include individuals, businesses and other organizations supportive of children’s camping,
and incorporated as a charitable non-profit, The Maine Youth Camping Association (MYCA). Promotion of Maine’s natural assets and excellent summer
camps gained emphasis. MYCA’s membership continued to reflect the wide
diversity of camps, including private, non-profit, religious, resident, day and
specialty camps.
Board Members
MAINE SUMMER CAMPS (MYCF)
Board of Directors 2011-012
President: Garth Altenburg, Chewonki
President Elect: Andy Lilienthal, Winnebago
Vice President: Nancy McCann, Tripp Lake, PR Chair
Secretary: Catriona Sangster, Wawenock, Education Chair
Treasurer: Fritz Seving, Fernwood
Board Members:
Eric Calhoun, Agawam
Marnie Cerrato, Center Day Camp
Judy Crosby, Davinci Experience
Rich Deering, Birch Rock Camp for Boys
Tom Doherty, Camp Ketcha
Jim Gill, Fernwood Cove
Mike Katz, Camp Sunshine
Scott Merrow, Oceanwood
Spencer C. Ordway, Winona - JMG Chair
Matt Pines, Maine Teen Camp
Anne Randall, Pondicherry, Girl Scouts
Jem Sollinger, Laurel
Nat Shed, Friends Camp
Robert Strauss, Wigwam—Buying Group Chair
Steven Sudduth, Wyonegonic
Lani Toscano, Runoia
Lisa Tripler, Kamp Kohut
Mark Van Winkle, Wohelo
Me. Tourism Commission Rep: Nancy McCann, Tripp Lake
Appointed & Ex-Officio Members
Business Representative: Jim Chalmers, Chalmers Insurance
Business Representative: Dean Waterman, Key Bank
Gulick Award Chair: Carol Sudduth, Wyonegonic
Trip Leader - JMG Liaison: Ron Fournier, Bryant Pond 4-H
Counsel - Jack Erler
Program Consultant - Mary Ellen Deschenes
MAINE YOUTH CAMP ASSOCIATION
Board of Directors 2011-2012
In the final quarter of the last century, a spate of new regulations and laws
were proposed that affected Maine camps, both positively and negatively.
MYCA met the challenges and became increasingly sophisticated about legislative advocacy. In recent decades, running a camp became a more professional and more challenging career choice. Societal and cultural expectations
have increased the pressure on camp directors, in the areas of camper safety,
program development, environmental impact, business practices and child
development.
MYCA stayed responsive to the changes camp directors were experiencing in
their field. In 2008, the organization spun off into two non-profit groups with
different purposes. MYCA became solely a governmental relations and advocacy group and is engaged year round on regulatory concerns, keeping
camps up to date on the many forces that can affect their summer camp. The
other group, Maine Summer Camps, continues on as a non-profit organization that creates networks, and provides professional development and support for camps at a time when such support is greatly needed. A primary goal
of MSC is to provide free camp information to the public – MSC maintains a
searchable website of Maine camps, provides a print camp directory and assists parents seeking opportunities for their children, including those with special physical or financial needs. The two organizations work closely together
for the benefit of Maine summer camps and families.
President: Steven Sudduth, Wyonegonic
Vice President: Fritz Seving, Fernwood
Treasurer: Barry Costa, State YMCA Camp
Secretary: Peter Hirsch, Androscoggin
Tracy St. Onge, The Summer Camp
Norm Thombs, Mechuwana
Quincy Van Winkle, Wohelo
The MYCF News is a publication
of the
Maine Youth Camping Foundation dba
Maine Summer Camps
Mary Ellen Deschenes, Editor
P.O. Box 1861, Portland, ME 04104
Tel. 207-518-9557
Fax. 207-797-7183
E-mail : [email protected]
www.mainecamps.org
Submissions & articles welcome!
Program Consultant, Maine Summer Camps
2
MSC News
Mainecamps.org
Winter 2012
A Feature of the Maine Sustainable Camps Initiative
WASTE STREAM REDUCTION — SUCCESS AT CAMP KIPPEWA
For the first time, Maine Summer Camps’ “Sustainable Camps Initiative” has set a theme. The theme for Summer 2012
is Waste Stream Reduction. With all camps pledging towards one theme, the gains will be easier to measure and advice
more readily available. To help motivate and inspire other camps, this newsletter will feature stories of Maine camps
who undertook waste reducing projects in 2011. The first featured camp is Kippewa –
For summer 2011, Camp Kippewa pledged to reduce office waste and increase efficiency
by moving their registration, parent and staff forms online. The planning started the previous fall, in conjunction with Kippewa’s technology/database partner. The change to a
“paperless office” is more easily accomplished with a technology partner. Feedback
shows that parents were impressed not only with the enhanced environmental benefits, but
also with the increased ease of completing forms electronically.
Jackie Brethel, Kippewa’s AD, reports that there were some unintended benefits. “(We) were transporting a lot less paperwork up to the camp office, and found getting information to key staff was much easier. We also saved money on
postage and paper, and anticipate more savings in the future.” There were a few obstacles. “Our nurses had a system in
place that worked for years, and were initially resistant to change.” Were there any lessons that Kippewa learned the
hard way they would like to share with other camps planning on switching to all electronic forms? “Counselor staff
loved the forms… they are accustomed to doing things online”, but some older staff have “…(a) lack of comfort with
computers and technology in general”. Anticipating that staff will have varying degrees of computer literacy and making accommodations before the summer starts will lead to more successful use of the new systems during the summer.
Any other Maine camps thinking about switching to forms to online versions are encouraged to contact Jackie for further
information . Contact info: [email protected]
—-Matt Pines
Maine Summer Camps lost one of
best when June Gray of Camp
MEMORIES OF JUNE our
Wawenock passed away in October. June was such a huge part of
MSC in all of its iterations for
many decades. We’d like to share some lovely memories from those who
knew her.
Our hearts are touched by the outreach and support from our community in
Maine Summer Camps. Your E-mails, cards, letters and gifts speak to the
value of our professional ties and the importance each of us plays in the lives
of the children we touch. Thank you! Pat, Catriona and Andy (Camp Wawenock Directors)
“Over the past 15 years, I have been grateful for June’s friendship and deeply appreciative of her candor. June’s concern for my development has made me a better educator and a better person. I will always bring a little bit of June Gray
wisdom with me whenever I teach or interact with young people. “ Dr. Chris Thurber, Camp Spirit
“When I first met June years ago as a young man I was struck with her spirit and enthusiasm for all things camp. As
director of my own camp for the past twelve years, I continued to be amazed by that same spirit. Although we were
passing friends and colleagues for a long time I always felt as if we knew each other better. That is because of the way
June endeared herself to others. She lit up every room she walked into! I have always known June to be one of the
most thoughtful, caring and intelligent people I have encountered in Maine camping. I hope that I continue to live up to
the high standards of decency and professionalism that June always set for all of us.” Mark Lipof, Camp Micah
“When I was making my decision to follow in my grandfather’s and father’s footsteps at Kieve, I was lucky enough to
meet June . My decision was made infinitely easier seeing the sparkle in her eye and feeling the spirit in her heart when
she spoke about her profession. 22 years have gone by , and every day June is with me. She was a strong leader and
great friend and has made a huge difference in countless lives.” Henry Kennedy, Camp Kieve
Continued on page 4
3
MSC News
Mainecamps.org
Winter 2012
Legislative & Government Affairs News from the Maine Youth Camp Association
MYCA is a sister organization to Maine Summer Camps. It focuses on governmental relations for summer camps in Maine. It is a 501 (c) 4 non-profit.
GOVERNMENT AND LEGISLATIVE BRIEFS
A Certified Food Protection Manager is required in each camp kitchen this summer. The state camp
licensing rules now specify that all food service entities have a CFPM on staff after January 18, 2012.
Training is widely available; a list of training providers was recently sent to MSC camp members. Others
may contact the state for the information.
Concealed weapons can now be locked in employee’s vehicle. A new law, effective 9/28/11 says an employer cannot
prevent an employee who has a permit to carry a concealed weapon from bringing the weapon to work so long as the
employee keeps the weapon in the employee’s locked vehicle and it is not visible. Jack Erler presented guidance on this
matter to MSC members at the September 28th meeting, and in a subsequent email to all members. Camps should revise
their weapons policies prior to summer 2012.
The American Camp Association alerted members to a new bill that gives a tax incentive to businesses hiring veterans.:
H.R. 674 is a large bill that amends the Internal Revenue Code. It includes new tax credits for businesses that hire unemployed veterans. Both nonprofit employers and for profit employers may benefit. Details can be found at
http://www.acacamps.org/publicpolicy/VOW-To-Hire-Heroes
For questions on any of these matters, members may contact the Maine Youth Camp Assn at 207-518-9748 or
[email protected].
MEMORIES OF JUNE
continued from page 3
(In reference to June’s work on the Halsey Gulick Award Selection Committee) “June [herself] deserved the recognition
annually for her modeling of enthusiasm and reminding us all about (former Wawenock director) Lillian Ussher's message, ‘"But what about the children . . .?"’ yes indeed, that is why we are all in business. We will ALL work hard to
make sure the campers are our first priority.” Carol Sudduth, Wyonegonic Camps
“June was in my corner for ten years helping me hone my professional craft with camps, which is so close to my heart.
Having her face to focus on, during those first years especially, meant so much to me. So too did her tireless efforts to
give me feedback that was honest and real. There are thousands of men and women all over the world who are better for
what June has done or said.” Dr. Ethan Schafer, camp educator
“I met June early on at a NE conference and found her welcome and wisdom to be just the ticket for this newbie with
much to learn …. Thank you to June for taking my hand and my heart and both leading and walking beside me along the
way. At Aloha when people or things or ideas are important to us we say they are part of our Quality World. Everything
about June is in my QW for sure.” Nancy Pennell, Aloha Camp Director Emeritus
“In all the years I have been involved with camps there are a handful of people who stand out above all the rest. June was
one of them. Though I knew her only from our quick, often lighthearted exchanges at various conferences over the years,
her sincerity and authentic soulfulness always shown brightly through to me. The first words I always use to describe
her are, “humble and understated”. Despite all her resisting the praises, the truth is that she was just that: a very powerful, positive, inspirational person. I even had this exchange with her when we spoke at the last New England Conference
– me letting her know how much I respected and admired her, and her letting me know how much she didn’t deserve it!”
Jeffrey Leiken, Mentor Counseling
Anyone interested in honoring June may make a donation to The American Camp Association- Camp Wawenock Scholarship Fund, 33 Wawenock Rd., Raymond, ME 04071
4
MSC News
ANNUAL BUSINESS MEMBER
DIRECTORY
Visit mainecamps.org for more details
on products & services.
A. M. SKIER INSURANCE
Hawley, PA (570) 226-4571
[email protected]
www.amskier.com
ACADIA INSURANCE COMPANY
Westbrook, ME (207) 772-4300
[email protected]
www.acadiainsurance.com
ADVENTURE BOUND
Schedule your raft trips on Saturday in July
and August for 10% discount.
Caratunk, ME (888) 606-7238
[email protected]
www.adv-bound.com
AIL CAMPER MEDICAL
Indianapolis, IN (800) 849-4820
[email protected]
www.americanincomelife.com
AMERASPORT
Newton, MA (508) 429-9000
[email protected]
www.amerasport.com
AUTOBEGREEN
Exeter, NH (603) 770-2099
[email protected]
www.AutoBeGreen.com
BACK COUNTRY EXCURSIONS –ME
Instructor educational program discounts.
Parsonsfield, ME (207) 625-8189
[email protected]
www.bikebackcountry.com
BAYSIDE BOWL
$5 per child for shoes & 1-Hr of Bowling!!
Portland, ME (207) 791-2695
[email protected]
www.BaysideBowl.com
BEAVER BROOK TENNIS, LLC
Denmark, ME (207) 452-2107
[email protected]
www.NeTennisandtrack.com
BENCHMARK MULTIMEDIA
10% discount to MSC members for video
production and free shipping
Biddeford, ME (207) 284-8935
[email protected]
www.benchmarkmultimedia.com
CARDINAL PRINTING COMPANY, INC.
Denmark, ME (207) 452-2931
[email protected]
CHALMERS INSURANCE GROUP
Bridgton, ME (207) 647-3311
[email protected]
www.ChalmersInsuranceGroup.com
CONCORD COACH LINES
Concord, NH (603) 228-3535
[email protected]
www.concordcoachlines.com
CRAB APPLE WHITEWATER
Youth group rates available with free camping.
The Forks, ME (800) 553-7238
[email protected]
www.crabapplewhitewater.com
CURTIS, THAXTER, ET AL
Portland, ME (207)774-9000
[email protected]
www.curtisthaxter.com
CUSTOM COACH AND LIMOUSINE
Portland, ME (800) 585-3589
[email protected]
www.customcoachandlimo.com
DENNIS PAPER & FOOD SERVICE
Hampden, ME (207) 947-0321
[email protected]
www.dennisexpress.com
DFS SERVICES
Freeport, ME (207) 865-9812
[email protected]
www.mainefoodsafety.com
DOWN EAST MAGAZINE
Camden, ME (207) 594-9544
[email protected]
www.downeast.com
FIVE STAR GOLF CARS & UTILITY
VEHICLES
Scarborough, ME (207) 289-8717
[email protected]
www.fivestargolfcars.com
FULL COURT PRESS
Westbrook, ME (207) 464-0002
[email protected]
www.fullcourtpress.biz
BLANCHE AURORA CAMP CONSULTING FUNTOWN SPLASHTOWN USA
Buckfield, ME (207) 336-2484
Special rates for camps who book in [email protected]
vance. Groups are 25+
Saco, ME (207) 284-5139
[email protected]
BLAST PARTY RENTALS
10% Member Discount
www.funtownsplashtownusa.com
South Berwick, ME (207) 457-0234
[email protected]
G-FORCE LASER TAG
www.blastpartyrentals.com
(207) 227-5562
[email protected]
www.G-ForceLaserTag.com
BO-MAR TRANSPORTATION, INC.
10% discount to MSC members.
Topsham, ME (207) 725-7189
GOSLINE INSURANCE GROUP
[email protected]
West Rockport, ME (207) 236-6222
www.mainebusrentals.com
[email protected]
www.peaseinsuranceagency.com
BOURDON'S INSTITUTIONAL SALES
Claremont, NH (603)542-8709
GREAT NORTHERN DOCKS
Naples, ME 207 693-3770
[email protected]
[email protected]
www.bourdons.com
www.greatnortherndocks.com
BUNAC USA, INC.
Southbury, CT (800) 462-8622
HALL IMPLEMENT CO.
ACA member discounts available.
[email protected]
Windham, ME (207) 892-6894
www.bunac.org
[email protected]
www.hallimplementco.com
BUNK 1. COM
10% off all web services to MSC members.
New York, NY (888) 465-2267
HAMMOND LUMBER COMPANY
Belgrade, ME (207) 495-3303
[email protected]
[email protected]
www.bunk1.com
www.hammondlumber.com
C. CAPRARA FOOD SERVICE EQUIPMENT
Winthrop, ME (207) 395-2405
HEBRON ACADEMY
Hebron, ME 888 432-7664
[email protected]
[email protected]
www.caprara.com
www.hebronacademy.org
Mainecamps.org
HEMPHILL'S INC.
North Vassalboro, ME (207) 872-7964
HIGH 5 ADVENTURE LEARNING CENTER
Brattleboro, VT (802) 254-8718
[email protected]
www.high5adventure.org
HOWELL'S GUN & ARCHERY CENTER
Gray, ME (207) 657-2324
[email protected]
www.howellsGunandarchery.com
KEY BANK, N.A.
Auburn, ME (207) 786-5441
[email protected]
KEYSTONE HORTICULTURISTS
Portland, ME (207) 797-8733
[email protected]
www.keystonehort.com
L. L. BEAN INC.
Up to 20% discount on most equipment for
members of MSC and ACA. Restrictions
apply, please call 1-800-458-3058 for details.
Freeport, ME (207) 552-2000
[email protected]
www.llbean.com
LANGDON ATHLETICS
Team order discount on all product purchases
Old Orchard Beach, ME (207) 450-2937
[email protected]
www.langdonathletics.com
LICE AUNTIES
10% off our Customary fees
Newton, MA (617) 901-0620
[email protected]
www.liceaunties.com
MAGIC FALLS RAFTING COMPANY
West Forks, ME (800) 207-7238
[email protected]
www.magicfalls.com
MAINE CAMP OUTFITTERS
Sunset, ME 8005606090
[email protected]
www.maine-camp.com
MAINE DIVERS SCUBA CENTER
Portland, ME (207) 775-3467
[email protected]
www.mainediversscubacenter.com
MAINE INNKEEPERS ASSOCIATION
Freeport, ME (207) 865-6100
[email protected]
www.maineinns.com
MAINE TENNIS & TRACK
Gray, ME (207) 657-2140
[email protected]
www.mainetennisandtrack.com
MAINELY TICKS
Windham, ME (207) 205-5562
[email protected]
www.MainelyTicks.com
MAMMIES CANDIES
Rumford, ME (207) 364-8959
[email protected]
MARKEL INSURANCE COMPANY
Glen Allen, VA (800) 431-1270
[email protected]
www.campinsurance.com
MILESTONE PHOTOGRAPHY
White Plains, NY (914) 949-5195
[email protected]
www.milestone-photography.com
MY SUMMERS.COM
Boca Raton, FL (561) 865-0031
[email protected]
www.mysummers.com
NORTHEAST CHARTER & TOUR CO.
Lewiston, ME (888) 593-6328
[email protected]
www.northeastchartertour.com
NORTHEAST GUIDE SERVICE
10% off instruction, permits and more!
Greenville, ME (207) 695-0151
[email protected]
www.northeastguideservice.com
Winter 2012
NORWAY SAVINGS BANK
Norway, ME (207) 393-3615
[email protected]
www.norwaysavingsbank.com
PARIS FARMERS UNION
South Paris, ME (207) 743-8976
[email protected]
www.parisfarmersunion.net
PAYROLL MANAGEMENT, INC.
2 weeks free process and check fee up to $75 value
Auburn, ME (800) 734-6880
[email protected]
www.payrollmgt.com
PFG NORTHCENTER
Augusta, ME (207)623-8451
[email protected]
www.northcenter.com
PUBLIC HEALTH SOLUTIONS, PLLC
Brunswick, ME (207) 449-0339
[email protected]
www.PHSPLLC.COM
RAYMOND LAUNDRY
Raymond, ME (207) 653-1761
[email protected]
www.raymondlaundry.com
REMAX BY THE BAY
Portland, ME (207) 553-7352
[email protected]
www.homesinmaine.com
SCHIRICK &ASSOC INSURANCE BROKERS
Monticello, NY (877) 794-3113
[email protected]
www.campinsurancepro.com
SOBEL AFFILIATES INC.
Garden City, NY (516) 745-0000
[email protected]
www.sobelins.com
SPORTS FIELDS, INC.
Monmouth, ME (207) 933-3547
[email protected]
www.sportsfieldsinc.net
SUMMER CAMP SUPPLY
Fayette, ME (207) 232-7174
[email protected]
www.summercampsupply.com
SUMMIT ADVENTURE SYSTEMS OF ME
New Gloucester, ME (207) 831-0483
[email protected]
www.summitadventuresystems.com
SYSCO FOOD SERVICES OF N. N. E
Westbrook, ME (800) 632-4446
[email protected]
www.sysconne.com
THE MAILING CENTER INC
Augusta, ME (207) 621-0234
[email protected]
www.mailingctr.com
THIRSTY-TURF IRRIGATION INC.
Portland, ME (207) 797-3461
[email protected]
www.thirstyturfirrigation.com
U-SAVE AUTO RENTAL
Lisbon, ME (207) 353-4136
[email protected]
WATERLESS CO. NO- FLUSH URINALS
Needham, MA (781) 444-9650
[email protected]
www.waterless.com
WINDFALL RAFTING
Discounted rates to MSC members.
Jackman, ME (207) 668-4877
[email protected]
www.windfallrafting.com
WINDSURFING - MAINE
North Leeds, ME (207) 557-3671
[email protected]
www.skindiversparadise.com
XTREME SCREEN AND SPORTSWEAR
Mention MSC membership to waive all set up fees.
Westbrook, ME (207) 857-9299
[email protected]
www.xtremescreenprint.com
5
MSC News
Mainecamps.org
Winter 2012
Winter Trainings & Events
WILDERNESS MEDICINE
CHEWONKI
January 3 - 6, 2012
Wilderness Advanced First Aid (WAFA) –
Chewonki – Wiscasset, ME. $400, $525 with
room & board.
January 8- 11, 2012
Bridge (WAFA to Wilderness First Responder (WFR)–
Chewonki – Wiscasset, ME. $400, $525 with room & board.
Discount for both courses to receive WFR certification,
$675, or $895 with room & board.
To Register for either Chewonki course: Greg Shute (207)-8827323 x129 or [email protected]
www.chewonki.org/vacations/vacations_courses.asp
WELCOME NEW CAMP MEMBERS
MSSM SUMMER CAMPS (ME School of Science & Math)
Contact: Lisa Smith, 95 High Street, Limestone, ME
04750. (207) 325-3303. [email protected]
Weekly Resident Camp, Co-ed.
MARCH 18 CAMP FAIR
Maine Summer Camps is hosting its third annual Southern Maine camp fair on Sunday, March 18, 2012 from 14 pm at the East End Community School gym on North
Street in Portland. The fair has been a huge success the
past two years, selling out all 70 camp tables, and drawing many hundreds of parents.
The fair is free to
the public, and registrations for exhibiting camps will
open in January.
FMI: Maine Summer Camps, 207518-9557.
CITY OF PORTLAND
WATER SAFETY INSTRUCTOR TRAINING
ACA WSI. Must be at least age 16 and meet prerequisites. Course begins Jan 10 and ends Jan 19. Daily class
schedule varies. Needs minimum of 6 students to run.
$300 Portland resident, $325 non-resident.
FMI & to register: 207.874.8456
[email protected]
FREE WEBINAR -FEB 2: CAMP AS A “HARDINESS ZONE”EMPOWERING GIRLS AT SUMMER CAMP
For many girls today, summer camp is one of the few safe • HGHW’s strengths based approach to working with
spaces where they can learn new things, take healthy risks,
girls
and be themselves. Hardy Girls, a Maine non-profit, is offering a free webinar for camp directors, counselors, and • How to cultivate a hardiness zone at camp: the basics
other staff. You will learn how the Hardy Girls approach to • How HGHW can support camps
empowering girls can help you make your camp a
“hardiness zone” – a space where girls experience greater
control, commitment, and challenge. Join Emily Brostek, Thursday, February 2, 2012 at 1 pm EST.
MPH, CHES, Training Institute Manager at Hardy Girls, in
this webinar and learn:
To register: http://hghw.org/node/230, or call 207.861.8131
MSC CELEBRATES 150TH YEAR OF YOUTH
CAMPING IN U.S.
Maine Summer Camps successfully worked with Representative Chellie Pingree to
have remarks entered into the
Congressional Record celebrating the 150th Anniversary
of youth camping. A copy of
the remarks was presented to
MSC at its quarterly meeting
in September.
MSC president Garth Altenburg accepts CR remarks from Pingree staffer
Skeek Frazee
DAVIS WIGGIN—NE MUSIC CAMP—
IN MEMORIAM
Davis died in November in Bonita Springs, Fla., at age 87.
He ran the camp on the shore of Messalonskee Lake from
1969 until his retirement two years ago. The camp hosts
about 200 music students every summer. The camp originally took root in 1930 as the Eastern Music Camp, and
was bought in 1937 by Davis' father, Paul , and renamed
New England Music Camp. In October, John & Kim Wiggin, current directors, announced a campaign to raise up
to $10 million to transform the summer camp into a yearround performing arts center. "He has left us a wonderful
legacy. And we feel a tremendous responsibility to live up
to that legacy." says Kim. Donations in Davis’s memory may
be made to NEMC, 8 Goldenrod Lane, Sidney, ME 04330
6
MSC News
SPOTLIGHT ON:
Mainecamps.org
Winter 2012
Founded on a Friendship:
Camp Skylemar For Boys
Camp directors understand that the unique and special bond between a counselor and a camper can easily last a lifetime. That’s exactly what happened in
the early 40’s, when camper Herb Blumenfeld was under the tutelage of Lee
Horowitz at a camp in NH.
Featuring member camps in order of Counselor Lee (a star athlete at Washington College who went on to become
a teacher and coach) and camper Herb (who later became a Pittsburgh attorfounding dates
ney) kept in touch long after camp, and as they got older the age gap closed.
Fond memories of their camping days brought about a business proposition:
they would purchase some land and start a camp. With a mere $5,000 in
hand, the best friends searched the country until they found the perfect site.
Sitting high on a hill in Naples was “Sky Farm”, a glorious location overlooking Trickey Pond and the White Mountains.
The farm had just been cleared for conversion to a summer camp. The huge
barn was renovated into a dining hall, the farmer’s home became the office,
corn fields were turned into ball fields, and a few cabins lined the stone wall
property line. The spectacular views,
towering pines, amazing sunsets, and
the sparkling clear lake was ideal for a
camp for boys which they renamed “Skylemar”.
For over half a century, Skylemar thrived under the leadership of Lee and Herb.
The bond that they established as a counselor and camper was unbroken, and the
two never once had an argument. This relationship was the foundation of Skylemar, and continues to be today.
In the late 70’s, Skylemar doubled in property size and facilities with the addition
of the neighboring Camp Wenonah land, adding additional fields, buildings and
lake frontage. At just about this time Lee’s daughter Arleen (who began as an
office assistant) fell in love with both working at Skylemar as well as a hockey
counselor named Shep. The two eventually married, and the Skylemar legacy
continued.
With a passion for making a positive difference for children, one boy at a time,
Shep and Arleen have directed Skylemar for the past 27 years. During the winter
months Shep is a school teacher in Baltimore, while Arleen runs the winter office
and a household of four children.
Skylemar is and will always be, a sports oriented camp based on the principles of
kindness and brotherhood. 170 boys attend for a three or seven week period, from
across the country and abroad. The number of campers is large enough for strong
competitive play, yet small enough for private instruction and for each person to
know each other well.
Perhaps best known for an outstanding staff, there is a 2:1 ratio of teachers,
coaches and collegiate athletes at Skylemar. Staff retention is extremely high, and
a large number of counselors were former campers. Campers tend to stay around
for a while as well, with a 90% return rate on those still of camp age.
There’s a new schedule of 7 periods daily, several of which are choice and others
assigned. Campers try everything, and then have the opportunity to specialize in
what they enjoy most. Centrally located to a number of other wonderful camps,
Skylemar enjoys intercamp competition. There are lots of trips and a big all-camp
nightly activity.
Alumni support is strong, with many returning to visit. It is they who coined the
phrase: You don’t just join Skylemar for a summer. You join for a lifetime.
We’re proud to be friends and colleagues with an outstanding collection of MYCF
camp directors. Here’s to a safe and happy 2012!
7
Maine Youth Camping Foundation
dba Maine Summer Camps
P.O. Box 1861
Portland, ME 04104
Non-Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Portland, ME
Permit No. 1073
Return Service Requested
January 25 - MSC Winter Meetings, Business Networking Luncheon, Workshop on
Camp Business — Camp Ketcha, Scarborough, ME
Calendar of Events
MYCF: Maine Youth Camping Foundation
ACA: American Camping Association
ACA/NE: ACA, New England Section
ACA/NY: ACA, New York Section
(207)
(765)
(781)
(800)
518-9557
342-8456
541-6080
777-CAMP
March 31
Saturday—7:45am Semi Annual Mtg at
ACA/NE conference , Manchester, NH
March 13-16
Tri-State Conference, Atlantic City, NJ
May 1
Spring Board Meeting & Fellowship,
In conjunction with SYSCO Food Show
July 10
Tentative Christopher Thurber Staff
Training – Camp Wawenock, Raymond
July 11
Wednesday—MYCF & MYCA Annual
Meetings, ME
Please mark your calendar
Jan 25, 2012
Wednesday—Winter Board Meeting &
Business Member Event, Lunch, Workshop
Feb 21-24
ACA National Conf., Atlanta, GA
March 18
So. Maine Camp Fair, Portland
July 17
Tentative—8th Annual MYCF Spelling
Bee, Portland
March 30-31
Friday—Saturday, New England ACA
Conference Manchester, NH
July 23-27
Mon-Fri. Junior Maine Guide Testing
Camp, Stephen Phillips Preserve
Oquossoc, ME
WELCOME NEW BUSINESS MEMBERS
BAYSIDE BOWL. Contact: Louis Simms, 58 Alder St, Portland, ME 04101. (207) 791-2695
Email: [email protected]. Downtown Portland’s coolest new spot for Summer Fun! 12 Lanes Big Ball
bowling and more.
NORTHEAST GUIDE SERVICE. Contact: Jessica Hargreaves, PO Box 1623, Greenville, ME 04441. (207) 695-0151
Email: [email protected]. White water rafting trips & more!! Special MYCF discount offered: 10% off
NGS instruction, including; camp trip leader permits, whitewater kayak, whitewater canoe, swiftwater rescue & Registered Maine Guide courses.
XTREME SCREEN & SPORTSWEAR. Contact: John Tibbetts, 918 Main St., Suite 3, Westbrook, ME 04092. (207) 8579200 Email: [email protected]. A full service screen printing & embroidery shop. Special MSC discount:
We will waive all set up fees for all MSC members when they mention this ad.
MSC News
Mainecamps.org
Winter 2012