July 2013 - Camp Towanda

Posted on July 31, 2013 by camptowanda

We’re Good Sports!

In addition to the family atmosphere, the intense spirit, tradition, legacy and incredible camaraderie that flows through our camp, the summer of 2013 has also been a very successful season for Towanda Athletics.

We are proud of our kids’ sportsmanship, participation and respect of other camps, as well as teamwork and Towanda pride.

Although our tournaments are still going on as we speak, we thought this would be a good time to share a recap of the ‘lucky summer of ’13’:

Everyday, our campers are engaging in instruction, skill development and games in virtually every sport. Our coaches, who consist of professionals, high school coaches and college players are top-notch and work with groups, teams, and individuals.

We offer what we call MasterCamp Clinics in Tennis, Soccer, Gymnastics and Basketball throughout the summer, for those campers who want extra focus in these sports (adding Lacrosse in 2014).

We have a very healthy balance and well-rounded program that keeps ALL our campers very happy, motivated and excelling; from our awesome and excellent athletes to our campers who “could go either way”!

Our kids thrive because we don’t put on the pressure and give the parents a much-needed break from getting caught up in the competition from afar (which is why we don’t live-tweet games or share daily scores). Some of our families are in the intense sports circuit for 10 months of the school year with travel sports and practices. It’s refreshing that when the pressure is off…our kids are winners! They feel good, everyone plays and it is a team that cares about each other!

We offer different levels of competition based on levels of interest and ability. For those who are interested in continuing an intense focus in a particular sport, we offer plenty of opportunity through MasterCamp and Tournament play. For those who want to try something new or less competitive, we offer friendly competition through inter-camps and scrimmages. We participate in a great program with other Wayne County Camp Association camps including: Wayne County Tournaments (which run all summer and are single elimination), Inter-camp Tournaments, Towanda Invitationals and Fun Friday Inter-murals. And of course, the grand daddy of them all…our Camp Towanda Olympics (which is also the most fun and spirited).

As you know, Camp Towanda is about so much more than sports, although they are of course a big part of our program. To date, we have had over 40 wins in Wayne County Camp Association soccer, basketball, baseball, football, tennis and lacrosse tournaments; including (only to date so far) SIX Championships and SEVEN 2nd Places. Still to come, another 12 teams have reached the championship round (yet to be played). In addition, we have won FOUR Towanda Invitational Tournaments so far and victories in casual inter-camp playdates.

Regardless, win or lose, the teams are called up to the flagpole for recognition! Because we are really most proud of the excellent sportsmanship, team support and camaraderie which is paramount to our coaching philosophy and our Towanda values!

hockey

Posted on July 29, 2013 by camptowanda

Something in the air tonight…

It’s time for another edition of Mitch’s blog/mix mashup…Camp Towanda updates set to music (we’ve added the You Tube music links for your listening pleasure). With week 6 getting underway, there is definitely something IN THE AIR TONIGHT.

YELLOW SUBMARINE. Yesterday actually felt like a Sunday. Dark, damp and heavy downpours. Actually felt good; giving us a chance to have some rainy day activities , extended rest hour and a little “Bunk-O” before our indoor rainy day BBQ!

YOU’RE THE ONE THAT I WANT.
Staff presentation of GREASE was fantastic! Great sprit, great sing alongs and then…

DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY.
The Olympic fever triggered; rumors of psych outs and fake outs have begun. Very intense;
At flagpole line up last night, there was strange delay with the flag lowering bugle…created quite a stir.

COLOR MY WORLD.
Then at tonight’s show, there were reports that my shirt color, my raincoat, kept changing colors every few minutes… red to blue to red to blue! At the end of Friends, Alma Mater & Taps, the lights went out, Pink Floyd’s ““Is there anybody out there?” intro sounded, the fog horn blasted; kids and staff started screaming and then I simply announced there was going to be an 8:30 AM Reveille!

You can sense the excitement and anticipation…who knows when, how , where and what?????? Stay tuned..will be in a few minutes?, hours?, days? Or at all!!!

YUMMY, YUMMY, YUMMY
After taps, I marched the TWEENs through the shadows of the night lights , serpentined around the older kids who were under the basketball lights…into the mess hall, then into the kitchen where they thought they were going to mop and clean; instead, I surprised them with make your own ice cream sundaes; it was all fun and games until Stephanie heard the noise came into the kitchen and we all scattered…hiding under the cook’s table, in the vegetable section and the walk in fridge….Stephanie caught us, but then joined us in the ice cream party… it got crazy as I “distributed” the toppings in an incredible dumping of “way too much oreos, sprinkles and syrup” to the kids…it flowed over their bowls, on their arms, down the table and onto the floor…everyone was laughing in amazement and incredible disbelief… a great fun ice cream party….afterwards, they marched silently through the night back to their cabins, not getting caught by The Head Counselor, whispering “this never happened”…a secret between, me, Stephanie and the Tweens! SHHHHHHHH.

DO IT AGAIN
After cleaning and resetting the kitchen, we did the same thing with the Middie Boys; all the same except, the boys were really sloppy and smelly!

I GOT A FEELING
Just completing an OD patrol with Stephanie and Amy, The Girls Head Counselor (HC), we talked about how incredible the aura of camp is, we proudly refer to the special feeling that happens at camp once we pass the visiting day hump…everyone is smiling, feeling good, active, excited and just overall, part of the Camp Towanda FAMILY!

OPERATOR
I feel that I am not even coming close to what happens here; there is a bond and sense of being part of something special and welcoming and comforting; that just brings out the best in each individual here.

AFTER MIDNIGHT
Okay, I’m actually going to go to bed soon…
Good night Towanda

-I SCREAM Mitch and 2 SCOOPS Stephanie

PS: I actually have fun thinking of Song Titles!

Posted on July 26, 2013 by camptowanda

Friday Night Sermon: Erica Gulliver

This is “Erica Media”‘s 7th summer at Camp Towanda. While she is usually behind the camera, producing Friday Nite Flix or managing her amazing team…a couple of weeks ago, Erica gave a beautiful sermon at Friday Night Services (proceeding another amazing Friday Nite Flix of course!). Enjoy:

My experience at Camp Towanda has not been the typical experience. I may not have grown up at camp in the traditional sense, but I have, in fact, grown up at camp. This summer marks my 7^th year as a member of the Camp Towanda family. It seems appropriate that 7 is a lucky number and this is, of course the lucky summer of 2013. Luck, or fate, definitely played a small part in my arrival at camp. In the winter of 2006, as I was trying to dwindle down my summer employment options, it came down to two camps; Camp Towanda, and another camp. Although I didn’t know it at the time, I did perhaps the single most important thing I’ve ever done; I flipped a coin, and it came up Towanda. Even during my first summer, I knew I had discovered something very important, and something special. It didn’t take long before Mitch started talking to me about what we would do the next year, and the year after that, and of course, the year after that. Camp is a part of my life. It’s a huge part of my life. During the past 7 years I have lived in 6 different apartments in 3 different countries and the only place I have known that I would truly feel home was Camp Towanda. Camp is so much my home in fact that my mail gets delivered here, all year round. Often at camp you hear people talking about the real world, or returning to real life, but for the lucky few of us, Camp is real life. We still live 10 months for two but instead of boarding the buses in August and figuratively carrying camp with us, we literally hold on to camp throughout the winter preparing for the day when the campers will once again wash upon the shores of Towanda.

At the end of each week, and each summer, I am entrusted to produce Friday Nite Flix and with each episode I try to produce the best FNF I can and present it as my gift to camp but no matter how good each show is (and I do hope you enjoy them), it doesn’t compare with the gifts camp has bestowed upon me. Camp has provided me with the opportunity to grow, both personally and professionally, to learn and to make mistakes. There is no way to truly express the importance of the friendships I have made here. Towanda is a beautiful camp with amazing facilities, but it is the people I have met here who have truly had a lasting impact on me. Through good times and bad, both at camp, at home and around the world, there is no one you can count on like someone from Camp Towanda. Every person you see around you is a potential life long friend. Friendships are very easily to come by at camp, but you must remember how valuable they really are. Praise your friends when they are doing good and support them when they need it. Tell you’re friends what they mean to you, as I hope I am telling all of you. I just want you all to know, I think you’re awesome.

To Bob and Amy, Lisa and Michael, I thank you for letting me share in your families, and for providing support and wisdom. To Mitch and Stephanie, who I to look to as my summer parents, I must say thank you. Thank you for helping me along the way, celebrating milestones with me, allowing me to stumble but never letting me fall. I hope everyday to make you proud.

There is no greater feeling then knowing you are loved and supported and all of you provide that feeling for me. If happiness could be located using a map, or maybe a gps, it would bring you here, to Camp Towanda.

Posted on July 25, 2013 by camptowanda

Where are they now? Alumni Spotlight- 3rd Edition

In this edition of “Where are they now?”, we have not one, but TWO couples who met their future spouse at Camp Towanda! Spanning the 80s, 90s and 00s…here is this week’s Alumni Spotlight! Please keep your entries coming and send to [email protected]. We have so many more great ones to share with you! Until next week….enjoy this trip down memory lane as some of our Alumni share their fond memories and insights about the camp we love!

Jayson Goldstone (married to Stacy Glass Goldstone)

Dorm / Club Year: Club 1985
College Attended? Northeastern University
Current Career: Owner of a Tool and Equipment Company
Did Towanda help prepare you for the “real world”? In what way? I learned about trust, teamwork, and independence (and some small mischief).
What was your favorite camp activity? Riflery (this was a long time ago…we obviously do not have this anymore!)
What is your most memorable moment at camp? Being a camper captain
Give us a line or two of your favorite camp song. Kings and Queens and Bishops too…
What words of wisdom would you share with today’s campers? Enjoy your summer freedom while you can.
Fill in the blank: When I think of __glass soda bottles_____, see____brown and gold____, watch____someone skiing off of a motorboat___, hear ____Taps_____ or eat ___pizza with corn meal crusted to the bottom______, I think of Camp Towanda!
If you could add an event to The Great Apache Relay, what would it be? Making a human pyramid

Stacy Glass Goldstone (married to Jayson Goldstone-Club 1985)

Dorm / Club Year: Dorm 1986 (started camp in 1979)
College Attended? Duke University
Current Career: Mother to two current Camp Towanda campers (third generation campers-grandmother is Dale Sokoloff Glass)
Did Towanda help prepare you for the “real world”? In what way? Camp allowed me to learn how to make choices (and mistakes) for myself in a safe environment.
What was your favorite camp activity? Girls Sing, Dutch Auction, Apache Relay
What is your most memorable moment at camp? Going to the roller skating rink (I think it was in a church)
Give us a line or two of your favorite camp song. D-O-R-M G-I-R-L-S…the Dorm Girls always on the go; Zum Golly Golly Golly: Kings and Queens:
What words of wisdom would you share with today’s campers? Embrace each moment…and savor the sights, sounds, and smells of camp…they will stay with you for a lifetime.
Fill in the blank: When I think of ___(too many to mention but…)_the lake, Shangri-La, the dirt road, the fly tape, milk call, Visiting Day lunch of fried chicken, brownie, and a plum___, see__a fanta soda bottle______, watch________, hear reveille, taps. or____”is anybody out there?”____ or eat _cereal from a small box _________, I think of Camp Towanda!
If you could add an event to The Great Apache Relay, what would it be? List in order, all of the owners of Camp Towanda!

Tina Kunkin Schweid

Dorm / Club Year:1991
College Attended? Lehigh
Current Career: Mom
Did Towanda help prepare you for the “real world”? In what way? Yes, made me a better friend, and more confident.
What was your favorite camp activity? Under the lights
What is your most memorable moment at camp? Winning the camp triathlon when I was 11.
Give us a line or two of your favorite camp song. D….O….R….M…..GIRLS SONG..(you know the rest)
What words of wisdom would you share with today’s campers? Enjoy, try everything and have FUN!!! Be as nice as you can— which is hard at times.
Fill in the blank: When I think of my happiest summers as a kid__, see_____a campfire ___, watch_fried green tomatoes _______, hear ____pink Floyd is there anybody out there.____or eat _Charleston Chews _________, I think of Camp Towanda!
If you could add an event to The Great Apache Relay, what would it be? Reciting the history of camp– when it opened(year, etc)

Ali Sussman

Dorm / Club Year: Dorm 2006
College Attended? Boston University
Current Career: Marketing/Communications
Did Towanda help prepare you for the “real world”? In what way? Definitely. Towanda taught me how to be responsible, innovative and developed all my leadership skills. In addition, for the communications field, I learned great Public Relations when dealing with parents of my campers. Camp taught me to be independent, to be a member of a group and how to form long lasting relationships.
What was your favorite camp activity? The old school evening activity of Panic! on girls camp.
What is your most memorable moment at camp? My most memorable moment at camp was when I was an assistant Group Leader for the Debs in 2010. Their sing was “Towanda runs on Debs & Dils.” Seeing them work so hard at an activity that I used to love as a camper was super special, especially because we won! It was so great seeing all their hard work pay off since debs and dillies usually never even place!
Give us a line or two of your favorite camp song. I don’t practice Santeria, I ain’t got no crystal ball, Well I had a million dollars but I, I’d spend it all. (Santeria)
What words of wisdom would you share with today’s campers? Put away all the extra gadgets that we have today! Enjoy this time and always include one another. There is no time for drama during the summer. These friends you make here will be with you for a long time! Always be spirited and always have fun! Your making life time memories.
Fill in the blank: When I think of summer, see anything red or blue, watch Wet Hot American Summer, hear American Pie or eat a Chicken Patty, I think of Camp Towanda!
If you could add a rule for GHOST, what would it be? You could step on the lines when there is only one person left!!

Michael Novick

Dorm / Club Year: 1994
College Attended? University of Michigan
Current Career: Film/TV Producer
Did Towanda help prepare you for the “real world”? In what way? The real world is all about relationships. The best ones I ever had were at Towanda.
What was your favorite camp activity? The Burning of the Olympic Rings
What is your most memorable moment at camp? The first time I kissed my wife.
Give us a line or two of your favorite camp song. We Welcome You to Camp Towanda We’re mighty glad you’re here…
What words of wisdom would you share with today’s campers? Cherish this time, now and forever.
Fill in the blank: When I think of Slim Sterling, see a campfire, watch a Hank Azaria movie, hear taps or eat a Chef Rigby Cookie, I think of Camp Towanda!
If you could add an event to The Great Apache Relay, what would it be? An all girls ropeburning right before the Water Brigade of Apache.

Posted on July 24, 2013 by camptowanda

Teams, Trips and Tumbling at Towanda!

Camp has been speeding full speed ahead since Visiting Day!

On Sunday , we had about 100 alumni return “home” for a great day of reminiscing, To-Wandering around and opening up their Dorm/Club Time Capsules from the 1990s and early 21st century; what a trip…to look at the memorabilia and laughs!

allstar

The counselor All-Star Basketball game was very entertaining as the spirit of camp continues to grow. And we had a great gymnastics half-time show from our campers!

Our Inter-Camp games continue with great sportsmanship, pride and teamwork. Our kids and coaches are making us proud. Not only with how they are playing (which is a joy to watch), but with how they are representing Camp Towanda all-around.

The Visiting Day VisionWalk fundraising T-shirt sales were impressive; the LITs took orders for over 100 shirts ($25 each); if you would still like to get one, we are placing the order on Friday, so just email [email protected] what size shirt and then mail in a check for $25, payable to Camp Towanda. (ATT: VisionWalk).

The accolades received from many parents since Visiting Day has been overwhelming and we thank you. We sincerely love and value what we do and feel lucky to be in this position and this career…we do not take anything for granted; as the owners, directors and parenting partners of your kids, we try our very best, learn from mistakes; improve and enhance each year; and no doubt, it certainly seemed like the best visiting day yet!

gymnastics

What a boost for everyone here; the staff are into doing the right thing and making the very best of the dwindling time we have this summer.

At our senior staff meeting last night, everyone remarked on how great a day VD was, how wonderful it was to meet many parents and this is the best part, how they get what we are about; how we put at least 3 days into 1; how impossible is to explain to someone outside of camp, what the magic is here and how proud they are as well to be part of our CAMP FAMILY.

It is trip week for Upper Camp. The Seniors left for Montreal, while the Club & Dorm enjoyed a great day on Martha’s Vineyard, now resting in Boston. The Inters also had a great tubing trip on the Delaware and delicious extravagant BBQ riverside. The National girls endured and enjoyed their Canoe Trip Today (no rain for them!).

Our Culinary classes have winded down with some delicious pretzel chicken and other entrees! Check out the recipe here.

Wednesday is Backwards Day, GoldRush and the Counselor Hunt, while the LITs head off to Niagara Falls for a few days.

In case you are interested, here are my Backwards Day Annoucements:

GNINEVE DOOG PMAC ADNAWOT. Ti Si YAD SDRAWKCAB! ENIHS DNA ESIR OT EMIT
SAMAJAP SAW YADOT ROF SSERD EHT……. ENERCSNUS RUOY TEGROF TNOD DNA

TRANSLATED:

GOOD EVENING CAMP Towanda IT IS BACKWARDS DAY TIME TO LOWER AND DULL
THE DRESS FOR TODAY WAS PAJAMAS… AND DON’T FORGET YOUR MOON DOOR!!

Posted on July 22, 2013 by camptowanda

Rookie Day Rewind

Written by Guest Blogger: Lauren Eckstein Forman, Social Media Director at Camp Towanda and Dorm ’92.

Last weekend was not my typical work weekend at Camp Towanda. It was extra special. Because not only was I “Lauren Eckstein-Forman: Social Media Director”, but I was “Lauren Forman: Mom of a Rookie”. Wearing two name tags, I looked as if I was having an identity crisis. Because last Saturday, I wasn’t working…I was just a CAMP PARENT…and my son was a ROOKIE!

uphill

After he raced up the hill to meet me at the white rock, he got his FIRST TOWANDA TEE! I’m not sure there is anything better than seeing your own child in a Towanda tee! Close behind him were many new “Rookies” and families who were soon familiar faces. But possibly the second coolest experience (next to the Towanda Tee) was that my son was going to be a ROOKIE with three of my camp friends’ kids! My three friends ran up that hill just like they were getting off the bus at camp over 25 years ago! With the same excitement, anticipation and sisterly love!

And now our kids were experiencing camp together. Bobby and Amy would be their head counselors! Mitch and Stephanie would be their summer parents! And Casper would be their summer dog! AMAZING.

After playing with Casper, checking out the new SUPER-COOL Lego Room (a Rookie favorite) and eating a delicious Towanda bagel, my son was whisked away to hang with the Jets! Each ROOKIE was given an LIT “Big Brother or Sister” to spend the day with. They helped carry their backpack, give a piggy back ride, answer any questions, help them at the salad bar, and make them feel at home. My son was off and now it was my turn to be just a parent.

Mitch, Stephanie, Bobby, Amy and Jared gave an amazing walking tour of camp! Even though it was a cool, cloudy day, you could still feel the warm spirit and energy that is Camp Towanda! I loved hearing new parents walking and talking about how they could feel this is such a special place (and the alumni and staff supporting them with reassurance that this really IS Camp Towanda…it feels like this EVERY DAY). All the campers and staff could not have been more welcoming and wonderful.

It was also fun introducing Camp Towanda to the spouses of the returning Alumni. It didn’t take long until they understood why their wives were so obsessed with Camp Towanda! From the cheering in the dining hall to the participation and excellent instruction on the ball fields and courts, you could sense all the parents wanting to jump in! The Camp Towanda spirit is just contagious.

Our kids had an action-packed day with the campers of their age group. O&A (outdoor and adventure), Gaga, Gymnastics, Arts & Crafts, Ghost, Waterfront, beach volleyball AND S’MORES around the campfire! It introduced them to camp in a very fun and safe way, and showed them what they can look forward to next year (i.e. swimming in the lake!).

The kids and parents were reunited at 3pm. The parents may have been more tired than the kids! The kids could have stayed all day!!! Overall it was the perfect introduction to camp. Everyone got quality time with Mitch, Stephanie, Amy and Bobby, which was a real treat (for the parents, this may have been even better than a Jonesy Cookie!). So many families have already made the decision that Towanda is their new summer home! I think these girls really said it best: https://vimeo.com/70825668. How cute are they?!

Now I can go back to the job I love and just one name tag…but I cannot wait to be known as “Ryan’s mom at Camp Towanda”! And I know he feels the same way too! He was made for this camp! CLUB 2021!!!

For more Rookie Day highlights, check out last week’s edition of Friday Nite Flix: https://vimeo.com/70725033.

Posted on July 19, 2013 by camptowanda

Where are they now? Alumni Spotlight- 2nd Edition

As we gear up for Visiting Day weekend and our Annual Alumni BBQ (Sunday, July 21st from 11am-3pm–21 years and older)…it seems like the perfect time for our 2nd Edition of “Where are They Now!?” The entries have been a terrific trip down memory lane! Keep them coming!!! Send to [email protected]. And don’t forget to join our LinkedIn Group: The Camp Towanda Network. So without further ado, here are 5 new Alumni spotlights starting with Wendy Levine Slater. Wendy is a former camper, counselor and camp-parent!

Wendy Levine Slater:

Dorm Year: Dorm 1982
College Attended: University of Vermont
Current Career: Registered dietitian
Did Towanda help prepare you for the “real world”? In what way? Towanda prepares you for parenthood, especially if you were a counselor. As a camper, it teaches you coping skills, independence, and how to get along with a variety of people with very different personalities and skills.
What was your favorite camp activity? Dutch auction, sing-down and Apache Relay
What is your most memorable moment at camp? Winning Olympiad my Senior year, oh and first meeting my now husband nick at the port authority bus station on our way to camp in 1985 (I was asked my the owners to check in all the foreign counselors)
Give us a line or two of your favorite camp song. “I go to camp towanda pity me, there’s not a boy in the vicinity…”
What words of wisdom would you share with today’s campers? Camp is an invaluable experience. You are so lucky to have this opportunity. The things you learn, the friendships you make-You may even meet your future husband or wife! The memories last forever and every year during the last week of June my spirit is on those coach buses as they leave for Honesdale.
Fill in the blank: When I think of summer, hear “Rock and Roll high school by the Ramones (dorm winning airband song) watch any play we did ( grease, bye bye birdie, guys and dolls, the boyfriend) eat a turkey club, mud pie, late night pizza or fried chicken (visiting day lunches were the best- bills chicken was legendary with chips, plum and brownie. Still the best lunch ever)
If you could add an event for the Great Apache Relay, what would it be? You could have to say the alphabet backwards.

Craig Cooper

Dorm / Club Year: 1991
College Attended?: University of Maryland
Current Career: Manufacture stainless steel kitchen equipment
Did Towanda help prepare you for the “real world”? In what way? YES, it taught me life skill, such as getting along with others, working in groups, respect for others and independence
What was your favorite camp activity?: basketball/ Hockey
What is your most memorable moment at camp? Other than meeting my wife, breaking Olympics by arriving in a helicopter (Blue Jetsons 1995)
Give us a line or two of your favorite camp song. Zoom Golly Golly, Zoom Golly Golly
What words of wisdom would you share with today’s campers? Enjoy every minute that you are at camp, it goes by very quickly and then it is over
Fill in the blank: When I think of ___good times____, see__Timberland boots______, watch___summer olympics_____, hear _____American Pie____ or eat ____chocolate chip Cookies______, I think of Camp Towanda!
If you could add a rule for GHOST, what would it be? Hot Dog Eating

*Craig and Marnie Cooper met at camp and are now first-time camp parents!!!

Peter Walsh

Dorm / Club Year: AGL of the Club of 2005
College Attended? Saint Mary’s University
Current Career: Teacher
Did Towanda help prepare you for the “real world”? In what way? Yes it sure did, it helped me become more independent and have more confidence in myself.
What was your favorite camp activity? Olympics by far
What is your most memorable moment at camp? In 2004 the Senior Boys during Olympics played one of the most entertaining softball games I have ever seen. It went back and forth and Blue won in the 15 inning.
Give us a line or two of your favorite camp song. Friends is such a great song as it sums up what Towanda is all about.
What words of wisdom would you share with today’s campers? Be yourself, don’t change yourself, have fun and don’t sweat the small things.
Fill in the blank: When I think of ____summer___, see_____Olympics___, watch____certain movies____, hear ____American Pie_____ or eat ____Soup______, I think of Camp Towanda!
If you could add a rule for GHOST, what would it be? At the time of my last year if you caught the ball after trying to be hit one of your teammates was not brought back in so I would make that a rule.

Samantha Orringer

Dorm / Club Year: 2003
College Attended? University of Wisconsin
Current Career: advertising sales
Did Towanda help prepare you for the “real world”? In what way? Absolutely. I had no homesickness going into college or moving to Chicago (where I currently live). I’m also very independent and can take care of myself.
What was your favorite camp activity? Duh. Arts and crafts!
What is your most memorable moment at camp? Way too many! But one I think of off the top of my head is practicing dorm sing (at an undisclosed location) while no one in camp knew where we were.
Give us a line or two of your favorite camp song. We welcome you to Camp Towanda….
What words of wisdom would you share with today’s campers? You are so fortunate to have the sleep away camp experience because at 25 years old, my camp friends are still my best friends and no one knows me like they do.
Fill in the blank: When I think of ____any childhood memory___, see____soffee shorts____, watch____the Olympics____, hear _____taps____ or eat _____grilled cheese_____, I think of Camp Towanda!
If you could add a rule for GHOST, what would it be? My ghost memory is foggy. But perhaps if something happens, a second ball is triggered into the game?

Beth Manspeizer Schwartz

Dorm / Club Year: 1990
College Attended? Skidmore College BS in theater. MFA from Actors Studio Drama School in Acting.
Current Career: Actor, Director of Education of a film institute called The Picture House in Westchester, and a Mommy!
Did Towanda help prepare you for the “real world”? In what way? Yes, in so many countless ways. But one that stands out: I learned to be a leader at Towanda, but I also learned how to allow others to be leaders. It was this awareness and respect for everyone’s contribution to the group, that I learned from Towanda and I have taken with me throughout life.
What was your favorite camp activity? So many…girls sing, cricket, porch lunch, trading stickers, jacks, being with my friends.
What is your most memorable moment at camp? When my boyfriend held a big box radio, over his head, outside my dorm window and played “In your eyes”. Now that’s old school! I don’t think kids these days know what a box radio is!!
Give us a line or two of your favorite camp song. “Here nestled in the hills the camp I love.” But I can remember mostly every camp song I ever learned and I love them all.
What words of wisdom would you share with today’s campers? Learn from your counselors. When you look back on your childhood, you will realize they were like little mommies to you. They taught me the importance of traditions, of taking care of myself, how to solve problems, how to push myself to achieve (one time my counselor allowed me stay at the water front for a whole day to learn how to dive…and I learned). You will remember the things they teach you and you will cherish them. From the simplest: how to sing your guts out, to learning how to make a bed with hospital corners, to putting on a pillow case…to the most meaningful: being a dear friend.
Fill in the blank: When I think of __singing __, see__a lake___, watch__olympic rings burn____, hear ____”is there anybody out there” or eat ___chocolate pudding with peanut butter_, I think of Camp Towanda!

Posted on July 19, 2013 by camptowanda

The Heat is On!

THE HEAT IS ON (Glen Frey)
I really think it is getting hotter everyday!!! Most activities we are doing are just mellow..like volleyball, culinary, indoor basketball, rollerblading indoors, gymnastics indoors, general swims…plus Fusion Water (our alternative to Gatorade…staying hydrated, the healthy way. Check out these recipes and make some at home!)

WAITING FOR THE SUN (The Doors)
The LITS and CITS went to The Binghamton Mets game on Wednesday; they left at the 5th inning and detoured into a movie theater…I don’t think they cared what they saw; it had a/c!

SUNNY AFTERNOON (The Kinks)
Wednesday night dinner dress code was “college shirt night”. So in an effort to help further keep the crowd cool…FROZEN Kit-Kats went to those in SYRACUSE ORANGE!

YOU ARE THE SUNSHINE OF MY LIFE (Stevie Wonder)
The Lower Camp show of Dear Edwina was HOT in the amphitheater; they were very cute!
we gave out ice pops as the sun set in the Western Sky.

SOAK UP THE SUN (Sheryl Crow)
The entire camp went to Dorney Park Thursday; timing could NOT have been better; it is a water park and thats what we needed! Our supervision is tops and our staff was ready with sunscreen. We arranged for the park to provide easy to get glasses of water at the concessions and gave the kids extra cash to buy drinks. It was hot, but why not be hot in a water park! Good times, everyone home safe!

WALKIN ON SUNSHINE (Katrina & The Waves)
Late reveille today; looks like one more scorcher; I think we will mellow down a bit and just sit in the lake and pool (the lake is warm!!!) for the better part of the day!

GOOD DAY SUNSHINE (Beatles)
Tomorrow is Visiting Day! We are excited to welcome over 2000 people to camp and hope the weather cooperates! Sibling Sleepover is Saturday night (which includes a fun, funny and spirited all-camp evening activity–COUNSELOR TALENT SHOW!)

SUMMER OF ’69 (Bryan Adams)
On Sunday, we look forward to welcoming our Alumni for the annual BBQ! We have over 90 people (over 21 years old) registered for this special day!

A little rain, or a lot of shine, we know this weekend will be great! Safe travels to all our visitors and we’ll see you at the white rock!

BONUS TRACKS TO MITCH’S “CHART-TOPPING” TUNES

NEW RISING SUN (Jimi Hendrix)

SUMMER BREEZE (Seals & Crofts)

SUNSET GRILL (Don Henley)

SUMMER LOVIN (Grease)

BEHIND THE SUN (Red Hot Chilli Peppers)

SCHOOL’S OUT FOR SUMMER (Alice Cooper)

LETTHE SUN SHINE (5th Dimension)

SUMMER LOVE SENSATION (Bay City Rollers)

AINT NO SUNSHINE (Bill Withers)

DON’T LET THE SUN GO DOWN ON ME (Elton John)

I WANNA GO TO THE SUN (Peter Frampton)

IN THE SUMMERTIME (Mungo Jerry)

The HOUSE OF THE RISING SUN (Animals),

TOO HOT (Kool & The Gang)

SUNSHINE OF YOUR LOVE (Cream)

Posted on July 18, 2013 by camptowanda

Girls’ Sing- Dorm ’13 Alma Mater

Our camp (and alumni) always look forward to our oldest campers (THE DORM) appearance at Girls’ Sing. They brainstorm their sing theme from the time they are Debs! They talk in the off-season, planning ideas. They write their own songs and practice them in a secret location. They make “fake scenery” to keep everyone guessing. The anticipation for Dorm sing is a tradition that dates way back in our camp’s history and is awesome. It is especially an emotional tradition to listen to our Dorm Girls sing from the heart in their Alma Mater. Seeing how far they have come. They were once 8 year old Debs, sitting in a circle, playing duck duck goose. Today they are 15 year old sisters, sitting in a circle, arm in arm, bonded for life. Here are their lyrics, sung to the Gavin Rossdale song “Love Remains the Same “. Grab some tissues and enjoy.

Love Remains The Same

A thousand memories that we’ve shared

It’s hard to picture you not there

Fate has brought me here to be with you

Twenty-four girls came together

To form a bond that lasts forever

Without you I don’t know who I would be

All the summers we’ve been spending

How is it our journey’s ending

CHORUS:

I never thought that I

Would have to say goodbye

Sitting hand in hand

I can’t live without you

Here united we are one

Friendships we have gained

Dorm thirteen won’t change

Our love remains the same

Camp’s the place we call our own

We’ll always find our way back home

Let us freeze this moment here in time

No matter if you’re near or far

You’ll always be inside my heart

Although the days are coming to a close

All the summers we’ve been spending

How is it our journey’s ending

CHORUS:

I never thought that I

Would have to say goodbye

Sitting hand in hand

I can’t live without you

Here united we are one

Friendships we have gained

Dorm thirteen won’t change

Our love remains the same

So much more to say

Please don’t go away

You are my best friends

I’ll be here ‘til the end

Never let me go

We wish we could rewind

Stay right by my side

How’d we end up here

Even though we’ll soon be parting

I promise a new chapter’s starting

All the summers we’ve been spending

How is it our journey’s ending

CHORUS:

I never thought that I

Would have to say goodbye

Sitting hand in hand

I can’t live without you

Here united we are one

Friendships we have gained

Dorm thirteen won’t change

Sisters we will stay

Our love will never fade

Posted on July 18, 2013 by camptowanda

Swimming, Snow Cones and Singing!

Late reveilles, extra General Swims and Snow Cones! Just 3 ways we are beating the heat here at camp. I was splishing and splashing on the water slide with your kids! The lake feels warm (chilly when you dangle your toes).

The Morry’s Camp Swim A Thon, organized by the LITS started this week (kids are swimming to raise money to send underpriveged children to camp…going rate has been a dollar a lap and the Steph and I match the total…last year we raised $13,000 and helped send 1500 kids to camp)…. A great lesson the kids learn here.

icecream Fudgicles, snow cones and ice cream sandwich treats are keeping us COOL; we run on fusion water; and lots of sunscreen. We changed the names of our chickens to Broiled, Fried, Baked, Roasted, BBQ’d and Tender!

A very entertaining HYPNOTIST show on Monday night in the amphitheater; some good belly laughs from the crowd as counselors went under the spell! After the show, the crowd read my mind and we surprised everyone with a McDonald’s treat. The best part is when Stephanie drives up to the window at McDonalds’ and says, “….can I have 300 hamburgers, 189 cheeseburgers, 2 burgers with no ketchup and 3 with extra cheese, 7 with onion and a happy meal toy!”

Monday night was GIRLS’ SING. One of those nights we wish you could be a fly on the wall. The girls were magical and terrific; the sense of pride, preparation, content, scenery, choreography, costume, scenery, sisterhood and love was intense…Every group presented impressively. Steph and I (and The HCs, Group Leaders and bunk counselors) cried at the presentations. Beyond cute, beyond cohesive bonding…….it was a great show.

And the boys were attentive respectful and appreciative… In fact, each corresponding boys group made signs and posters in support of “their” girls group.

The judges declared The Inter-Nats the winner in a very close score! And in the end, they Club hugged the Dorm Girls, who wrote and performed an amazing alma mater to share with the entire camp (lyrics will be posted on the blog shortly). You just can’t get this experience anywhere else!

winners — **Miss InterNational: 2013 Girls’ Sing Winners!**

Afterwards, Stephanie and I walked around the girls bunks and we are proud to say that everyone was holding their head high, realizing that winning wasn’t the goal, but working together, doing one’s best and being happy for others WAS THE GOAL!

A great teachable and GROWING moment of the summer!

Just in case you missed our “LIVE TWEETING” on Twitter of the themes…here they are:
The DEBS & DILLS ON DECK (beyond cute)
THE TWEENS & JUNIORS KICKIN IT OLD SCHOOL (energetic)
MISS INTERNATIONAL BEAUTY PAGENT (innovative)
SENIORS’ SUMMER LOVIN’ (together)
DORM APPETIT ‘ (in sync)