Skylemar Blog

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

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

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

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

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

We love him to the Sky and back.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Willy Wonka Cast

Wonka                                Kyle YA, Aidan R

Charlie                                Hayes N, Jack W

Grandpa Joe                      Noah L

Augustus Gloop                Ethan R

Veruca                                Xander

Violet                                  Jake S

Mike Teavee                     Keith O

Mr. Salt                               Ryder

Mr. Bucket                         Noah K

Mr. Beauegarde               Teddy S

Mrs. Gloop                         Eli D

Mr. Teavee                        Jonah K

Grandpa George              Eli W

Grandma Georgina          Jagger

Grandma Josehina           Nolan B

Candy Man                        Cooper E

Phineous Trout                 Ethan V

Matt                                    Cooper F

Jamie                                   Oscar

Oompa Loompas 

Bode

Semaj

Spencer M

Bucky

Max P

Nate F

Charlie L

Tommy W

Bah

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

IT’S COLOR WAR ELECTIONS 2021!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But for now….

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Meanwhile, on the Volleyball court…

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

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

Then over on the Tennis courts…

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

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

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

JOY!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

3 pounds red skin potatoes

6 tb butter

3 tb minced garlic

5 oz Minor’s or Herb-Ox beef base

2 tb parsley

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

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

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

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

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

Now you know why we keep an extinguisher handy!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

And here’s how it went…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Cast of “Elf”

Santa Claus                        Noah (B25)

Buddy Scene 1-3               Eddie (B17)

Buddy Scene 4-7               Rowan (B17)

Buddy Scene 8-12             Aidan (B17)

Walter Hobbs                    Tyler (B20)

Emily Hobbs                      Dylan (JC)

Jovie                                    Xander (B17)

Chadwick                           T.I. (B17)

Walter                                 Cooper (B8)

Deb                                      Eli (B8)

Macy’s Manager               Noah (B28)

Mr. Greenway                   Nolan (B5)

Charlie/Kid/Elf                  Ethan (B2)

Barnard/Elf                        Eli (B1)

Elf/Policeman                    Jagger (B5)

Elf/Security Guard            Luca (B5)

Elf/Security Guard            Ethan (B7)