FAIRVIEW LAKE YMCA CAMPS Established 1915 • fairviewlakeymca.org
YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME
2014 Summer Camp
2
you
BELONG
Fairview Lake Your Home Away From Home Because of what you BECOME. you B elong you’re E nergized you’re C onfident you’re O pen-minded you’re M otivated you’re E mpowered
Welcome to Fairview Lake YMCA Camps! We know summer is an important aspect of childhood, and we make sure that summers are done right. Our well trained staff understands campers must be safe in order to have fun. Our staff provides an enriching individualized experience for each camper. Fairview Lake is an environment for campers to achieve goals and grow into the best versions of themselves. Don’t miss an opportunity to give your child a summer they will never forget, one that will be a stepping stone into their bright future.
Bob Kahle Executive Director
New friendships bloom quickly at camp. Whether kids arrive on their own or bring friends, campers bond quickly as they share living space, motivate and support each other with new challenges and enjoy songs and skits. 3
TRADITIONAL CAMP
you’re
ENERGIZED
MINISINK Coed entering grades 2-4
Energy is contagious. Camp radiates with liveliness as campers take to their daily adventures in the out-of-doors. The combination of fresh air, quality staff and energizing activity, leads campers to a peak experience. 4
1-week: June 29 - July 5 or July 20 - July 26 2-weeks: July 6-19 or July 27 - August 9 Combine one and two-week programs for a three-week stay: June 29 - July 19 or July 20 - August 9 (no variation from session dates listed above)
Minisink is the perfect experience for our younger campers. Staff provide a nurturing environment for campers to live and play. Counselors ensure that their campers are taking care of their personal needs, such as brushing their teeth and making their beds. At the same time they make camp fun and exciting, encouraging campers to try new activities and learn new skills. The Minisink program provides a balance of structured and choice activities. Each camper participates in swim instruction, cabin and unit activities, plus two elected periods daily. The afternoon concludes with the campers electing to participate in a recreational swim or heading to the athletic field for sports. While Minisink campers receive the individual attention they need, they also enjoy participating in camp activities and meals with the older Laurel Ridge and Kittatinny campers. This is perfect when siblings attend camp together and also creates a smooth transition into Laurel Ridge and Kittatinny as the camper becomes older.
KITTATINNY and LAUREL RIDGE
SAMPLE OF DAILY SCHEDULE
Kittatinny - Boys entering grades 5-10. Laurel Ridge - Girls entering grades 5-10.
8:10am 8:15am 9:15am 10:00am 11:15am 12:25pm 12:30pm 1:30pm 2:30pm 3:45pm 5:00pm 6:00pm 6:15pm 7:30pm 9:00pm
3-weeks: June 29 - July 19 or July 20 - August 9 Campers may combine two sessions for a six-week experience and stay at camp during “changeover weekend,” July 19 - July 20.
Laurel Ridge and Kittatinny campers have the opportunity to custom design their program each week by signing up for three elected activities. In addition, there is one period for swim lessons and another for campers to elect to go swimming or play a sport of their choosing on the athletic field or court area. Cabin mates will also enjoy something different during evening programs. Believe it or not there is still time for “siesta” where campers have a little quiet time to read a book, write home, hang out with friends or visit the Trading Post.
“I never
HOME SICK when I am at camp, but I get camp sick when I am at HOME. get
Line up Breakfast Cabin Clean Period 1 Period 2 Line up Lunch Siesta/Trading Post Period 3 Period 4 Free Swim/Free Sport Line up Dinner Evening Activity Return to Cabin
“
-Amy S. 5
SPECIALTY CAMPS
you’re
CONFIDENT
ACTION-REACTION Coed entering grades 4-10.
June 22-28 or August 10-16
Action-Reaction combines traditional camp activities with daily activities focusing on things that fly. Specialized activities such as: building and launching model rockets, hydro rockets, and water balloon launchers highlight each day. Campers will even see how fire can dance to music using a Rubens’ Tube!
Confidence grows in campers with each passing day and new adventure. All activities are “challenge by choice.” With the support of their friends and Y staff, kids are encouraged to push just a bit beyond their comfort zone and try new things. 6
CREATIVE ARTS CAMP Coed entering grades 4-10.
June 22-28 or August 10-16
A full-week of fun for budding artists in both the performing and visual arts in a comfortable, noncompetitive environment. Activities include: drama, improvisation, drawing, dance, voice and creative writing. Campers select their own schedule for the week and may explore several different programs. Recreation time and all-camp activities will supplement your arts program.
FAIRVIEW DISCOVERY Coed entering grades 2-10.
June 22-28 or August 10-16
This is the ideal program for first timers or a camper looking for a fantastic week-long traditional camp experience. This is also the perfect program for any three-week traditional camper to have the opportunity to extend their stay and participate in one more week of their favorite camp activities. Campers in our Fairview Discovery program have the chance to select from a wide array of activities that they will participate in daily. The day’s activities are culminated with a free selection of sports and games at our sports field or a free swim.
SAILING/WINDSURFING CAMP Coed entering grades 4-10.
June 22-28 or August 10-16
Campers learn proper terminology and sailing skills to become proficient sailors. Campers use two beginner boats - Sunfish and Lasers, or try windsurfing!
TARGET GAMES Coed entering grades 4-10.
June 22-28 or August 10-16
At Target Games, campers will have the opportunity to participate in a number of exciting activities from archery to riflery and catapults. Campers will begin shooting targets in our ranges and as their skill progresses they will have an opportunity to shoot moving targets. This program is great for beginners as well as advanced marksmen.
“
CAMP I am more confident and see the beauty in LIFE!
Because of
“
-Natalie T. 7
you’re
OPEN-MINDED Living and playing with an open mind is a way of life at camp. Campers come from many different backgrounds, allowing campers the opportunity to learn from others who are different from themselves. This is an important take away for campers to use right through adulthood. 8
ADVENTURE TRIPS
Our Environmental Trips for Challenge program (E.T.C.) uses Fairview Lake YMCA
Camps as a home base, staying in our seasonal, unadorned cabins with a central bathhouse and pavilion. We want you to experience the joy of your surroundings, the satisfaction of meeting new challenges and the discovery of special friendships. An experienced, trained, responsible staff member, who is at least 21 years-old, leads each trip with at least one other staff member. While on the trail backpacking or hiking, or canoeing on the river, experience outdoor camping, cooking and sleeping in tents. Expect to support each other, push limits, reach new heights and discover a new you!
ONE-WEEK TRIPS
Introduction To Adventure
Angler’s Catch
Coed entering grades 4-8. June 29 - July 5, July 20-26 or August 10-16 Backpacking, hiking, wall climbing, outdoor camping and cooking. Great for first timers.
Coed entering grades 6-11. June 22-28, July 20-26 or August 10-16 Freshwater fishing basics.
Boots to Boats Coed entering grades 6-11. August 10-16 Backpacking, canoeing, tent camping and outdoor cooking.
Delaware Safari Coed entering grades 8-11. June 29 - July 5 Canoeing, outdoor camping and cooking.
Navigating Nature Coed entering grades 4-8. June 22-28, July 6-12 or July 27 - August 2 Map and compass use, shelter building, fire building, plant identification and outdoor cooking.
Rocks and Rucksacks Coed entering grades 6-11. July 20-26 Rock climbing, backpacking, tent camping, and outdoor cooking.
For a full description and sample trip itineraries, please visit fairviewlakeymca.org. Use the calendar planner on page 15 to schedule a summer of exciting adventures.
Up, Up and Away
Rocks, Rivers and Reels
Coed entering grades 4-11. June 22-28 or August 3-9 (Beginners, grades 4-8) June 29 - July 5 (Advanced, grades 6-11) Wall climbing, high-ropes, rock climbing. Advanced group will also experience rappelling and technical climbing at Sterling Mines (3 days).
Coed entering grades 6-11. July 6-19 Fishing, light hiking, climbing, four-day, three-night canoe trip, outdoor camping and cooking.
TWO-WEEK TRIPS
Coed entering grades 8-11. July 27 - August 9 Canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing and sailing on Fairview Lake. Off-site trips include a day rafting trip on the Lehigh River and a four-day, three-night canoe trip on the Delaware River.
Adventurer’s Sampling Coed entering grades 6-11. July 6-19 or July 27 - August 9 A three-day, two-night canoe trip on the Delaware River; a three-day, two-night backpack trip on the Appalachian Trail; outdoor camping and cooking, a day of rock climbing and rappelling.
E.T.C. Service Corps Coed entering grades 8-11. July 6-19 Campers learn the value of performing a variety of service projects. You can receive volunteer hours for participation in this program.
Voyagers
THREE-WEEK TRIP E.T.C. Extreme Challenge Coed entering grades 8-11. July 20 - August 9 Backpacking on the Appalachian Trail, camping trip to include: kayak trip, mountain bike, zip line, rappelling, rafting, waterskiing and a group service project.
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RANCH CAMP
you’re
MOTIVATED
ONE-WEEK PROGRAM Coed entering grades 4-10.
The thrill of accomplishment is within reach for every child, every day at camp. Counselors guide kids in setting and reaching goals that fit their unique abilities, as well as motivate and encourage campers to achieve their group’s goals. 10
Coed, June 22-28 or August 10-16 Girls, June 29 - July 5 or July 20-26
Our riding program is the summer home to carefully selected horses for riders of all ages and abilities. Instruction for beginners through advanced riders is led by skilled riding instructors from a wide selection of disciplines. Each camper or “Ranchie” will be assigned a horse and taught how to manage and care for it throughout the session. Each day, campers will saddle up for expert ring lessons and exciting trail rides discovering the magic of all 660 acres here at Fairview Lake YMCA Camps. Campers will also have opportunities to swim and participate in traditional camp activities in the evenings. At the end of the session campers will participate in a horse show, providing them the chance to demonstrate their newly found skills. Our riding director is an American Camping Association approved and certified riding instructor.
TWO-WEEK PROGRAM Girls entering grades 4-10.
July 6-19 or July 27 - August 9
Includes many of the same lessons as the one-week program, plus so much more. The emphasis is on advancing your abilities as a rider. Campers will increase their knowledge of horses and learn basic animal care; recognizing common diseases, reading vital signs, and administering basic first-aid. As a culminating event campers will participate in a horseshow, giving them a chance to demonstrate sharpened skills. August campers attend the nationally famous Sussex County Farm and Horse Show at the New Jersey State Fair.
FOR TRADITIONAL, ADVENTURE TRIPS AND RANCH CAMPERS Coed entering grade 11 (16 yrs-old).
June 21 - July 19 or July 19 - August 16
The CIT program is an extensive and rigorous four-week program that offers selected applicants the opportunity to develop leadership, program, outdoor living, and effective counselor skills. The focus is on small group dynamics, communication skills, teamwork and value clarification, as well as conflict resolution. Selected applicants participate in a variety of exercises and challenges and also have the opportunity to take the American Red Cross Lifeguard Course. The first three weeks of the program will focus on skills and techniques through a plethora of exciting lessons. The final week of the course will provide applicants the opportunity to experience the life of a camp counselor as they are fully immersed in assisting counselors. Due to the success of the program, we will be offering two, four-week programs to allow for more individual growth and attention. The goal is to have our CITs leave their four-week program with the skills to be effective leaders at camp, and back home in their communities. Please contact the summer camp director for specific information.
“
EMPOWERED
CIT PROGRAM
you’re
Not only did a sense
CAMP give me confidence through
of belonging,
it empowered me by giving
me opportunities to see my
true POTENTIAL.
“
-Taylor T.
In an environment created to highlight personal growth, each camper is empowered to strengthen relationships by participating in a wide variety of activities designed to build lasting skills and memories. At camp, magic happens. 11
COME HERE ALL YEAR FAIRVIEW LAKE YMCA CAMPS
In an environment created just for you, each person is empowered to strengthen relationships by participating in a wide variety of activities designed to build lasting memories. At camp, magic happens. Join us.
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION The Environmental Education program provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience for students. Leave the classroom and explore the Kittatinny Ridge: a three-mile hike to the highest point of our facility. Along the way, students gain valuable insight and experience a brief section of the renowned Appalachian Trail.
FAMILY AND SPECIALTY WEEKENDS FAMILY CAMP WEEKENDS
MOTHER/DAUGHTER WEEKEND
WOMEN’S WELLNESS WEEKENDS
February 14-16, 2014 May 23-35, 2014 June 13-15, 2014 August 29-31, 2014 October 24-26, 2014
January 31 - February 2, 2014
FATHER/SON WEEKEND
November 15-17, 2013 March 7-9, 2014 November 14-16, 2014
MOTHER/SON WEEKEND
December 6-8, 2013 December 5-7, 2014
November 7-9, 2014
February 28 - March 2, 2014
FATHER/DAUGHTER WEEKENDS
GUY’S WEEKENDS November 22-24, 2013 November 21-23, 2014
Visit our web site to view our Adult and Family Weekends brochure for rates and more. 12
2014 FAIRVIEW LAKE YMCA CAMPS REGISTRATION FORM
(MUST be completed and mailed to: Fairview Lake YMCA Camps, 1035 Fairview Lake Road, Newton, NJ 07860 or Faxed to: 973 383 6386)
Camper Information (Please print clearly) First Name:
Last Name:
Age:
Street:
DOB:
Gender:
Apt #:
City:
State:
Current Y Member:
Yes No Y Location:
Returning Camper:
Yes
No This is my
Zip:
M
F
Grade as of 9/14:
Home Phone:(   ) Membership Expires on:
year at Fairview Lake YMCA Camps.
County (NJ Residents only):
Bunk request (one per camper/both campers must make same request): Camper lives with (so we can better serve your child):
Both Parents
Mother
Father
Other (please indicate):
School attended by camper:
Parent Information (Please print clearly) First Name:
Last Name:
Occupation:
Cell Phone:( Company:
First Name:
Last Name:
Occupation:
) Phone:(
Cell Phone:( Company:
)
Ext.:
)
Ext.:
) Phone:(
E-mail Contact (For all camp correspondence/parent packets and newsletters. Please print clearly): Name:
E-mail:
Primary
Name:
E-mail:
Alternative
For first time campers; How did you hear about Fairview Lake YMCA Camps? If you were referred by someone, please state their name: Has anyone in your family previously attended Camp? Name:
Yes
No
Relationship to camper:
FAIRVIEW LAKE YMCA CAMPS AGREEMENT WITH CAMPER'S PARENTS MEMBERSHIP - All campers must have a current YMCA membership. The $50 membership fee (if applicable) must accompany the registration form. At the time of registration, non-members become a Fairview Lake YMCA Camps Summer Youth Member. DEPOSIT REQUIREMENTS - $250 deposit for each one week session and $500 deposit for each two or three week session. This deposit is applied to the total tuition bill. The $50 membership fee (if applicable) must accompany the registration form. SIBLING DISCOUNT - If more than one child from the same family is enrolled in camp, receive a 5% discount for each additional child. Discount applies to the lower priced session(s). Applies toward camp tuition fees, they are not applicable for Membership or CIT fees. REFUND POLICY - Deposit fees are non-refundable. Entire camp fees are also non-refundable if a camper leaves due to homesickness, dismissal or voluntary withdrawal. Fees paid over and above the deposit are refundable ONLY if cancellation is made at least 30 days prior to the start of camp session. If it is deemed advisable to send a camper home for an EXTENDED period for medical reasons, one half of the unexpired portion of the session will be refunded. FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE - The Y is accessible to all people. Financial assistance is available to individuals and families who need our programs and services most. Please call or visit our web site for more information and an application. Our camps are for those who enjoy camping. Rules for acceptance and participation in the program are the same for everyone without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, age and disability. It is understood that all campers will be treated as individuals and respect shown for reasonable differences in tastes, preferences, abilities, and range of behavior patterns. The Y reserves the right to dismiss a child from camp whose special needs we are not able to meet or whose conduct is not in the best interest of the total camp, without refund. The Y is granted the right to use any and all pictures and videos taken of camp activities in their production of materials for promotion of Y activities. Believing my child is qualified for camp life, I give permission for my child to take part in all activities and understand there is some risk involved in all physical activities. I agree to place him/her in care of the camp, subject to all its rules and regulations. As required by New Jersey State Law, I give permission for my child to handle and fire a rifle and/or bow and arrow, and to participate in out-of-camp trips.
#
PARENT'S/GUARDIAN'S SIGNATURE:
Easy online registration. Visit FAIRVIEWlakeYMCA.org and click the Sign up button.
DATE:
/
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2014 CAMPS, DATES AND RATES TRADITIONAL CAMPS Minisink
Coed entering grades 2-4 June 29 – July 5 (1 week).......................................................................... $875 July 6 – July 19 (2 weeks).......................................................................$1,670 July 20 – July 26 (1 week)......................................................................... $875 July 27 – August 9 (2 weeks).............................................................. $1,720* Combine 1 and 2-week programs for a 3-week stay (Sorry no variation from session dates listed above.) June 29 – July 19 (3 weeks)...................................................................$2,420 July 20 – August 9 (3 weeks)..............................................................$2,470*
Easy Online Registration
COUNSELOR-IN-TRAINING (CIT) PROGRAM Coed entering grade 11 (16 years old) June 21 – July 19 (4 weeks)..................................................................$2,370 Traditional Track ETC Track Ranch Track July 19 – August 16 (4 weeks)........................................................... $2,420* Traditional Track ETC Track Ranch Track Call camp office about deposit and special application - 800 686 1166.
ADVENTURE TRIPS/E.T.C.
Kittatinny and Laurel Ridge
Coed entering grades 5-10 (3-weeks) June 29 – July 19......................................................................................$2,420 July 20 – August 9.................................................................................$2,470*
Angler’s Catch – Coed entering grades 6-11 June 22 – June 28 (1 week).....................................................................$800 July 20 – July 26 (1 week)........................................................................$800 August 10 – August 16 (1 week) ...........................................................$800
NEW for 2014! New York City to Fairview Lake transportation.
Boots to Boats – Coed entering grades 6-11 August 10 – August 16 (1 week)............................................................ $935
Pick-up: June 29 - Drop-off: July 19 ($100) Pick-up: July 20 - Drop-off: August 9 ($100)
Delaware Safari – Coed entering grades 8-11 June 29 – July 5 (1 week).......................................................................... $935
(Call camp office for pick-up/drop-off location and time.)
Introduction to Adventure – Coed entering grades 4-8 June 29 – July 5 (1 week)..........................................................................$800 July 20 – July 26 (1 week).........................................................................$800 August 10 – August 16 (1 week) ..........................................................$800
SPECIALTY CAMPS June 22 – June 28 (1 week) Sailing/Windsurfing – Coed entering grades 4-10.......................$920 Creative Arts – Coed entering grades 4-10...................................... $875 Action-Reaction – Coed entering grades 4-10............................... $875 Fairview Discovery – Coed entering grades 2-10.......................... $875 Target Games – Coed entering grades 4-10..................................... $875 August 10 – August 16 (1 week) Sailing/Windsurfing – Coed entering grades 4-10.......................$920 Creative Arts – Coed entering grades 4-10...................................... $875 Action-Reaction – Coed entering grades 4-10............................... $875 Fairview Discovery – Coed entering grades 2-10.......................... $875 Target Games – Coed entering grades 4-10..................................... $875
RANCH CAMP Coed entering grades 4-10 June 22 – June 28 (1 week).......................................................................$995 August 10 – August 16 (1 week).............................................................$995 Girls only entering grades 4-10 June 29 – July 5 (1 week)...........................................................................$995 July 6 – July 19 (2 weeks).......................................................................$1,885 July 20 – July 26 (1 week)..........................................................................$995 July 27 – August 9 (2 weeks)...............................................................$1,935*
Navigating Nature – Coed entering grades 4-8 June 22 – June 28 (1 week)......................................................................$800 July 6 – July 12 (1 week)............................................................................$800 July 27 – August 2 (1 week) ...................................................................$800 Rocks and Rucksacks – Coed entering grades 6-11 July 20 – July 26 (1 week)......................................................................... $935 Up, Up and Away – Coed entering grades 4-11 June 22 – June 28 – Beginners (1 week) grades 4-8........................ $935 August 3 – August 9 – Beginners (1 week) grades 4-8................... $935 June 29 – July 5 – Advanced (1 week) grades 6-11........................... $935 Adventurer’s Sampling – Coed entering grades 6-11 July 6 – July 19 (2 weeks).......................................................................$1,650 July 27 – August 9 (2 weeks)................................................................$1,650 ETC Service Corps – Coed entering grades 8-11 July 6 – July 19 (2 weeks).......................................................................$1,650 Rocks, Rivers and Reels – Coed entering grades 6-11 July 6 – July 19 (2 weeks).......................................................................$1,650 Voyagers – Coed entering grades 8-11 July 27 – August 9 (2 weeks)................................................................$1,650 ETC Extreme Challenge – Coed entering grades 8-11 July 20 – August 9 (3 weeks)............................................................... $2,625
NEW! Refer a Friend** For all returning campers: Refer a * Price includes NJ State Fair admission and $25 spending money. To avoid a $50 late fee, please pay balance of all fees by June 1, 2014.
first time Fairview Lake camper to any summer camp program and you can earn $20 referral credit to the Trading Post for each week your friend is registered. Your family can earn up to $300. Be sure to write the referring family name here: **Credit valid at Trading Post only. Non-transferable.
Y summer camp membership fee - $50 (must accompany deposit) I’d like to make a contribution to Camp’s Financial Assistance fund in the amount of $ Check enclosed: Please make checks payable to: Fairview Lake YMCA Credit Card #: Name of Card holder (Print):
Please charge my:_
Master Card
Visa
Expiration Date: Signature:
American Express
Discover
Amount: $ Date:
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Easy online registration. Visit FAIRVIEWlakeYMCA.org and click the Sign up button.
#
Please charge balance of camp fees to this card between 5/15/14 and 6/1/14. I would like to be contacted to discuss a payment schedule. (Get application in as early as possible because full payment is due by June 1, 2014)
Plan Your 2014 Summer Schedule Here Week 1 June 22-28
DATES
Week 2 June 29-July 5
Week 3 July 6-12
Week 4 July 14-19
Week 5 July 20-26
Week 6 July 27-Aug 2
Week 7 Aug. 3-9
Week 8 Aug. 10-16
Sunday-Saturday Traditional Camp Minisink
COED GRADES 2-4
Minisink
Minisink
Minisink
Minisink
Minisink
GIRLS GRADES 5-10
Laurel Ridge
Laurel Ridge
BOYS GRADES 5-10
Kittatinny
Kittatinny
Specialty Camp Fairview Discovery
Fairview Discovery
Creative Arts
Creative Arts
ActionReaction
ActionReaction
Sailing/ Windsurfing
Sailing/ Windsurfing
Target Games
Target Games
COED GRADES 2-10
COED GRADES 4-10
Counselor-In-Training Program (Saturday - Saturday) COED (AGE 16) GRADE 11
June 21 - July 19
July 19 - August 16
Ranch Camp COED Ranch Camp GRADES 4-10 GIRLS GRADES 4-10
Ranch Camp Ranch Camp
Ranch Camp
Ranch Camp
Ranch Camp
Adventure Trips / E.T.C. COED GRADES 4-8
Navigating Nature
Intro. to Adventure
Navigating Nature
Intro. to Adventure
Navigating Nature
Up, Up and Away
Intro. to Adventure
(Beginners)
Up, Up and Away (Beginners)
COED GRADES 6-11
COED GRADES 8-11
Angler’s Catch
Up, Up and Away
Rocks, Rivers and Reels
Angler’s Catch
(Advanced)
Adventurer’s Sampling
Rocks & Rucksacks
Delaware Safari
ETC Service Corps
Angler’s Catch Adventurer’s Sampling
Boots to Boats
ETC Extreme Challenge Voyagers
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NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Sparta, NJ PERMIT NO. 185
FAIRVIEW LAKE YMCA CAMPS 1035 Fairview Lake Road, Newton, NJ 07860 P 800 686 1166  F 973 383 6386 fairviewlakeymca.org Address Service Requested You Tube
The Metro YMCAs of the Oranges has 5 facility locations that build youth development, healthy living and social responsibility through many programs and services. Visit metroymcas.org for more information. East Orange YMCA Wayne YMCA South Mountain YMCA West Essex YMCA Sussex County YMCA
WHAT I BECAME Several times over the past decade I have been asked why I feel such a strong connection to Fairview Lake. On more than one occasion I have simply told them I still feel such pride in where I spent my childhood summers because it is where I grew up and where I learned to become a man. For many people that went to summer camp as children, the memories stay with them, but they may not feel so drawn to the place itself. For me there is no separating the two. I will always have fond memories of playing games of knockout at court time, singing the Kittatinny song and, yes, stacking and sweeping the dining hall on more than one occasion. But for me, witnessing the beauty of the lake in the mid-day sun or the view from the ridge evokes those same memories of where I learned to interact, grow and establish my own sense of self. In the years since my last summer at Fairview Lake in 2004, I have gone on to pursue a career in sports journalism that has led me to be the sports editor of my college paper, an editor for MLB.com and eventually a copy editor with the National Hockey League. These pursuits are the result of years of work, both in the classroom and in the office, but they would not be possible without the time I spent growing with the Sons of Kittatinny. From the time I first came to Fairview Lake as a 10-year-old in 1995, the social environment did not just force me to mature and learn how to develop relationships with those around me, but it also helped imbue me with a sense of responsibility and self-determination for achieving my goals. An impact like this took time – no one grows up overnight, and certainly not at the age of 10. But the lessons I learned from my fellow campers, counselors and senior staff members eventually built me into the man I am today, one who is confident, self-assured and professionally successful but aware there is much more still to achieve. Those lessons
were being taught as soon as I began coming to Fairview Lake, but they continued beyond my years as a camper and into my time as a counselor when I learned not what it was just to grow up, but to shepherd others who are doing the same. I firmly believe that none of what I have achieved would have been possible in the same way without my time at Fairview, but even more important than the growth I experienced and the lessons I learned is this simple fact: I had a ton of fun for 10 straight summers. Whether I was writing the story of the Mohawk tribe for Color War, playing Mr. Mushnick in Little Shop of Horrors or exhausting myself during a daily game of Ultimate Frisbee, I knew every summer that I would have the time of my life for six weeks. My memories are still rich and the friendships I made nearly two decades ago are still some of the closest I have. These are connections that will impact me for a lifetime. How deep do these connections run? I always keep a Kittatinny patch and my CK cookie in my bag, a little piece of camp wherever I go. But even nine years removed from the last time I was a camper or counselor at Fairview Lake, wherever I am in the world I stay connected to the events in Stillwater. Just this past summer, I spent my vacation climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania at the time Color War 2013 broke out. For the first two days of my hike, I wore the black Mohawk shirt I got at the trading post in 1999. It was not a coincidence.
-David Kalan-