Camp Activities
15-U Basketball Tournament
By Mark McAuliffe, working senior
At Camp Shohola, there are intra camp events like NBA, NHL, and Little League. We also have inter camp events against other camps around the area. There are Pike County Tournaments and regular games in many sports. Camp Shohola faces camps like Lake Greeley, Lake Owego Camp, and New Jersey Youth Camp.
During the first month of the 2002 season, there was a 15-U Pike County Tournament. This tournament took place at Pine Forest Camp. The four teams in the tournament were Camp Shohola, Pine Forest Camp, Lake Greeley, and New Jersey Y.
In the first game, we faced Pine Forest Camp, who had a very good-looking team. We had a good first half, except for Pine Forest’s big guy destroying us in the middle. Also, we had a lot of turnovers, which left us behind at the end of the first half. Before the start of the second half, we made some changes to try to regain the lead. The changes did not help; they actually made the score worse. In the end, we felt bad about the loss but we still had fun playing and decided to go for third place.
When the second game started, the Shohola team felt confident about getting third place in the tournament. We faced NJY, who lost to Lake Owego in their first game. Just like Shohola’s first game, the opponent had a huge height advantage over us. NJY lead from the beginning of the game, but we were not far behind throughout the first half. Towards the end of the first half, we started having some fun. We were yelling and screaming to get pumped up. NJY started to get frustrated with us, so they began to throw elbows and get very angry. The same thing started to happen when the second half began. The referee even gave the team a warning about their behavior. We did not win the game, but Shohola had a fun time in the second game and the whole tournament.
After every game or tournament, kids young and old come back to camp with smiles, even if the Shohola team lost. Intercamp match-ups are a great part of camp because of the rivalries between camps and the chances to defeat your rivals to gain pride.
Mystery Marathon
By Josh Talbert, working senior
Sleuthing, adventure, and competition are among the most prevalent of childhood themes and the Camp Shohola Mystery Marathon includes them all. Sponsored by WCSR Radio, who broadcasts a show simultaneous to the event, the marathon is another instrument in the ongoing Green vs. White point-scoring competition.
Led by captains Matthew Mirsky, Gabe Hanna, Andrew McRostie, Dan Brill, and Mark McAuliffe, the two teams attempt to use the riddles and hints broadcast on the WCSR radio show to find the various prizes that are hidden around camp. There are two categories of prizes: rare and common. The rare prizes, including the ‘three tennis balls’ and the illusive metallic discs, are quite valuable and are the main subject of the riddles and hints. The common prizes include a multitude of pins, fake money, and other trinkets. They are scattered all over the campground and are worth less points than the uncommon prizes.
A codename activity, encouraging camper/counselor interaction, is also integrated into the marathon. Each counselor selects a unique codename for his or herself that will be broadcast on the radio show. The campers must then match the announced codename with the respective counselor. Once a camper has an idea regarding a counselor’s name, they must find the counselor and speak the name to them. If they are correct, the counselor surrenders his ‘name ticket’ to the camper so that they can redeem it for points.
In the end, the Green team won, 152-84, and everyone had a great time.
Capture The Flag
By Robert Schiff, working senior
Every year, Camp Shohola helps celebrate the 4th of July with every camper’s favorite game, Capture the Flag. This year, 2002, the game was just as fun and successful as ever.
The game starts by dividing the camp into two teams, usually separated by odd and even numbered cabins. The working seniors did not play this year, but instead, helped supervise. The “even” captains were Steven Kaplan and Scott Gaynor, while the “odd” captains were Gabe Hanna and myself, Robert Schiff. As a captain, we were allowed to play and lead our teams.
The even numbered cabins won this year, winning of two out of three games, but everyone played their best. I enjoyed the game, especially the privilege of being captain, even though my team did not win. As always, the game was fun, and it was an excellent continuation of Shohola tradition.
The Eco Challenge
By J.D. Leonard, working senior
On Sunday, April 7th, the Eco Challenge took place at Camp Shohola. The challenge was a three-part relay race all over camp. Each cabin sent a three-person team to race, with the exception of the Working Seniors; they sent two teams. Numerous staff also participated, including a Head Counselor team, a Czech team and a South African team. Our sister camp, Camp Netimus, also sent representatives to race.
The first leg of the race involved kayaking. One member of each team kayaked on Lake Greeley from the waterfront docks to a floating marker in the middle of the lake, and then to the fishing dock. The kayaking leg ended when they touched their next teammate.
The second leg of the race was running. A second member of each team would run along a route designated by white spray paint all over camp. The route started at the fishing docks, went to the horse barn on the other side of camp, and ended at the Lower Office. The second member tagged their team member and the third leg of the race began.
The final leg of the race was mountain biking. The participants rode from the Lower Office, up a long, steep road, and back. Some of the winners were: The Czech team, cabins 2,6, and 16.
Everyone had a lot of fun. I’m sure that it will continue to be a tradition at Camp Shohola.
Intra Camp Activity
By Mike Berry, working senior
During the first and second weeks of camp, Shohola hosts drafts for any willing athlete in a variety of sports. Four teams are formed from the campers, and they compete against the other teams. During the first month, soccer, basketball, and hockey leagues were offered to the campers. Crowds, consisting of the majority of the camp, gather to watch. The spirits are always high, and the athletes play with kindness and sportsmanship.
The programs introduce campers to others, and even raise their fitness level. The program is very open as well. During the draft, previously selected captains choose a group of athletes to play on their teams. After the draft, if any players have not been drafted, they are put on a team and are able to take part in all the matches. One rule in the program is that all players on the team must take part in the match, unless it is against their own will. With this program, all willing athletes feel accepted among others.
Water Sports
Canoeing
By Nate Storb, cabin 4
In canoeing, we are taught how to row. We learn how to place our hands on the paddle. The teachers help you along the way, telling you how to correct your mistakes. We often paddle around Blueberry Island. One of the fun activities we do when we paddle to Blueberry Island is water wars. In a water war, you splash your opponent with water using your paddle. Canoeing can be hard because of the shallow water. You also have to help when it comes to carrying the canoes in and out of the water. Most important of all, don’t forget your buddy tag!!
Sailing
By Hector Vazquez & Juan Manuel Jimenez, cabin 8
When you get on the boat, you get the feeling of floating through the air like a bird. Even though getting into the cold water can be an unlikable experience, once you get on the boat, time is stopped and you keep on flying. Putting the sail up, the dagger board down, and using the rudder are the necessary procedures to have a nice and smooth ride. The counselors create a great environment and make the classes enjoyable.
Kayaking
By Jean-Paul Pretat, cabin 14
Kayaking, in my experience, is awesome. In kayaking class, Rodrigo and Tom teach us to do a variety of things. To make sure we can do a wet exit, Tom uses his enormous muscles to flip our kayaks over. We learn how to do sweep strokes, bow rolls, and, if you are ready, how to do an Eskimo roll. We also engage in many fun activities in kayaking class. The first is polo, where you are attempting to put a ball in the opposing team’s inner tube. There is also a game where you raft up in a circle with your classmates and two people get out of their kayaks and go around in a circle and race each other back to their kayaks. Kayaking is always a class to look forward to at Camp Shohola.
Swimming
By Ben Meissner, cabin 2
Swimming at Camp Shohola is a lot of fun because we get to swim in our great lake. We also get to swim lots of different strokes like the front crawl, back crawl, butterfly, breast stroke and side stroke. Our lake is great for swimming and everyone is always enthusiastic to get in. Learning swimming has been great and I know it will be good for me someday.
Windsurfing
By Milan Cimera, cabin 14
Speed, grace, joy, and freedom are just a few of the feelings I get when I'm windsurfing. I never really thought much about windsurfing until I took it as an activity here at Camp Shohola. As soon as I picked it, I was in for a big surprise!
The first few classes were fun, just like every other activity. We were able to go out onto the water and float around on just the boards. This helped us get an idea of how to balance on the boards. Still, that was nothing compared to what excitement I would be experiencing with an actual sail.
We learned the parts of the sail and everything else we needed to know about windsurfing. As soon as I put that sail on my board, I felt like I could take on any wind Blueberry Island threw at me. Windsurfing is really fun, especially when you realize that the only thing separating the sail from thrashing and violent winds is you.
Windsurfing is an incredible sport. My advice to anyone who wants to give it a try is “Do it!”
Power Boating
By Charles Babalola, cabin 13
Rowing is a very fun thing to do. It is a sport that helps you in a lot of ways. For example, it helps you mentally and physically. It helps you to overcome your fear of going out on a lake and it gives you a good workout. Apart from that, it’s a lot of fun.
Fire Island Kayak Trip
By Scott Gaynor, working senior
We recently went on a kayak surf trip. Our destination was Long Island, New York. We headed to Fire Island, a popular surfing beach. We arrived around lunchtime and ate. Then we walked to the beach and started surfing. When surfing in a kayak, it is more difficult because the waves flip the boat over easily. At first it was hard to stay up. When I flipped over into the fifty-degree ocean water, I preformed a water exit and swam back to shore to start again. The first campers to go in flipped fairly quickly, but sooner or later, we got used to the two-foot swells. We surfed for three hours.
After our first day of surfing, we all went back to our campsite and cooked chicken and veggies for dinner. The next day, we woke up early and ate eggs and sausage for breakfast. We got to the beach around nine in the morning. Justin, one of our counselors who lives in the area, called his father and asked him to bring us his boogie boards. Since there were more people than kayaks, the extra people used the boogie boards to pass the time. Aussie Rob used to boogie board back in Australia, so he was the best out of our group. He could do a lot of tricks, like 360’s and standing up on the board.
Later that night, we went to the movie and had a nice time in the town. After one more morning of surfing, we drove back to camp Shohola. I enjoyed our trip.
8th Annual Pike County Swim Meet
By Stephen Kaplan, working senior
From the early lunch, to the actual races, and finally the ride home, the entire day is fun. The Pike County Swim Meet was held at Lake Owego Camp. Shohola, Lake Owego, Pine Forest, Lake Greeley, and New Jersey Youth camps all competed for the title of Pike County 2002 Champions.
Jared Schwartz, Ben Meissner, Juan Jose Jimenez, Cody Umbel, Ben Palitz, Paul Becker, Ian Slater, Matt Seskin, Eric Lubben, Noah Meissner, Paul Meissner, Zach Frankel, Milan Cimera, Stephen Kaplan, Andrew McRostie, Mike Berry, Joshua Talbert, Nick Phelan, Joe Polinger, Charles Babalola, and Daniel Brill all tried their hardest, with help from coaches Izaak Orlansky, Triin Sokk, Paula Burnett, and Mandy Pulker. We competed in medley relays, freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, butterfly, individual medleys, and freestyle relays with the most enthusiasm out of all of the camps. In total, we had twenty-two top three finishes and ten of those were first place.
When swimming was over and the scores were tallied up, lake Greeley came in 5th place, with thirty nine points, NJY was in 4th place, with ninety-two points, Pine Forest came in 3rd place, with one hundred and sixty-one points, Shohola came in 2nd with one hundred and seventy-six points, and in first place, with one hundred and ninety-seven points, was Lake Owego. Although we did not win, it was the best performance Shohola has had at the Pike County Swim Meet in a long time. The day was fun, and in our hearts, Shohola won.
Land Sports
Basketball 13-U
By Paul Schneider, cabin 12
Basketball 13-U is during period one on “A” days and “B” days. In this class, we do many drills to help improve our basketball skills. For example, we do full court lay-up drills. This helps you improve your shots from everywhere on the court. We also play knock-out. This is a fun way to practice your free throws and mid-range jumpers. Also, in this class, we scrimmage. This helps us practice our skills at everything and we learn how to play our best position. Basketball 13-U is one of the best classes you can take if you like basketball.
Ropes
By Andrew Schiff, cabin 13
The ropes course, as always, is an excellent class for any camper to participate in. In this class, campers are able to climb and rappel on many different courses. You will learn trust, teamwork, and cooperation, as well as develop a passion and skill for rock climbing.
As a two period class, it is packed with entertainment and fun for all ages. After climbing on one of four walls, you can ride the zip line back down to the ground. As a member of the ropes class, you are entitled to participate in fun-filled trips to Shohola Falls, The Gunks, and the Delaware Water Gap. There you can climb mountains, rappel, and traverse high across the rapids below.
On a daily basis, the Ropes course is a great activity. Campers can experiment with the “spider web”, the zip line, swinging wall, and the suspension bridge. These obstacles provide excellent training and experience for when you climb the real mountain.
The Ropes staff cannot be forgotten, either. This year, consisting of about ten members, the instructors are always fun to be around. They teach you well and prepare you for tougher courses that lie ahead. Not to mention, they are also there for your safety and protection.
This class is one of my personal favorites and I would recommend it to all campers that would be interested in this type of activity.
Golf
By Zach Stone, cabin 16
I am in the only golf class offered in Camp Shohola. Although not the most liked sport in camp, the 5A-golf class is one of my favorites. We go to clinics, where we are taught by the pros to swing like a pro. In the class, we improve our skills in accuracy, putting and driving. We are also taught when to use each club and why. You can sharpen your skills and develop a better swing.
Shohola’s golf class has made me want to be a better golf player. We go on golf trips all the time to play nine holes. We also learn some of the rules of an actual game in the class. The instructors have taught us everything, including the definition of ‘par’, the average amount of strokes needed to get to the hole, and how to properly set up the ball.
Another reason I like to play golf is because I get to wear cool shoes. It is one of the most relaxing sports I have ever played and you can play it all throughout your life. All people from every age can play the sport and you do not need to be very physically active or strong to play.
Outdoor Games
By Arlen Caplan, cabin 1
Outdoor Games is fun. We play street hockey, baseball, dodge ball, world cup, twenty-one, king of the mats, capture the flag, and gaga. My favorite is world cup. In world cup, you cannot shoot inside the penalty box. To win the game, you must score goals before the other teams. If all the other teams score before your team, you must sit out and play in the next round. The counselors are Jon G., Kevin W., and Kris. My friends and I love to play outdoor games. And we do a lot of the games in our free time. I think that everyone should take outdoor games. I think “we will, we will… rock you!”
Skateboarding
By Philip Ayers, cabin 5
In skateboarding the counselors are Jamie Ayers, Jon Bookstein and Kevin Powell. During work camp they made lots of ramps and Jamie also donated some of his ramps from home. We have a quarter pipe, a box, a bank, and a rail. They are also going to make two launch ramps in the future. On the box, you can do lots of grinds and you can do tricks off the side of it. On the quarter pipe, you can do stalls, airs, and grabs. On the bank, you can do lots of flip tricks. And on the rail you can do grinds too. The class is relaxed and you get a lot of time to skate. If you have any question about learning how to skate, you can ask Jamie Ayers for advice. It is always very frustrating learning the basics. But once you learn them, it is very fun!!!! Skateboarding is a lot of fun and if you didn’t take it this year, you definitely should take it next year!
Conditioning
By Bryan Hill, cabin 9
During Conditioning, we exercise to develop muscles and self-esteem. In the first class, we took tests to see how many crunches and push-ups we could do in a minute and how many pull-ups we could do. After that, we had to run a mile. We did these tests so that we would know if we had improved at the end of the month. At the beginning of each class, we run two laps around the soccer field. Then, each person does different exercises instructed by Rob, the counselor. That about wraps it up for explaining conditioning.
Roller Hockey
By Philip Ayers, cabin 5
In roller hockey, we learn how to shoot, pass, puck handle, and play together. The main counselor is John Gushman and a lot of the time we just scrimmage. Sometimes in roller hockey, we have competitions like ‘Who can aim the best’ or ‘Who can deke out the goalie’ best. We also learn how to set up for a game in all of the positions, such as goalie, right defense, left defense, right wing, left wing, and center. Gushman is a great hockey counselor and he is a fun guy to be around. Roller hockey is a lot of fun and if you didn’t take it this year you definitely should next year!
Tennis
By Morgan Blanchet, cabin 16
Tennis is one of the greatest times I have during the day. Our instructors are not only good at what they do and good at making the class fun, but they also like hanging out or joking around with all the campers too. Already, after only a few lessons, the entire class has improved greatly. In tennis, the beginner classes learn the first fundamentals of playing. The intermediate class practices what they have learned and perfect their play. In the advanced class, the players further perfect their strokes and their game strategy. In the tennis class, you not only become a better tennis player, but you have a whole lot of fun.
Riflery
By Noah Meissner, cabin 16
I have taken riflery every year I have been at Camp Shohola and it’s always a lot of fun. We start off learning basic rules for safety on the shooting range. Some of the important rules are: always point a gun in a safe direction, remember that a gun is not a toy, don’t point a gun at someone as a joke, and that a gun is always loaded. Another rule is that if you shoot an animal you have to eat it. After learning rules and basic techniques, we start shooting. Out initial goal is to have a good grouping. Then, we work on centering our shots on the bulls-eye. But riflery isn’t all work. We also have a lot of fun shooting cans. In my opinion, riflery is one of the best courses offered at Camp Shohola.
Street Hockey
By Colin Steinberg, cabin 1
Hi my name is Colin and this is my article on Street Hockey. My counselors in the class are John, Jamie and Mike. First we have drills in passing, receiving and shooting. Then we have a scrimmage. When we play, Steinburgs’ are always offense because they work very well together. They make great setups and always score, even on Gushman. We also have Gabe Hanna, who can really play the game, but everyone does great. The game of street hockey is unpredictable. Sometimes you score and sometimes you hit the post, just missing the goal by an inch and this is my report.
Nature
By Kyle Schiff, cabin 3
I like nature in many ways. We go on nature trails and find different types of animal trails and bugs. We sometimes do research on the bugs. We also catch things from the lake and the creek.
Our instructors are George and Eric. They are very funny too. I like them both. They are very kind and helpful. There is also a nature secret that I cannot tell you.
If you ever come to Camp Shohola, sign up for nature. You would love it. It is the best to me. Every year I come, I sign up for nature. If you do not sign up for it, you would regret it.
Riding
By David Noble, cabin 6
In my opinion, riding is the best activity at Shohola. You advance through four levels. You start as a beginner, just trying to walk around the arena and maybe trot a few times later at the end of the month. When you reach the intermediate level, you perfect the trot, which is very fun. After that, you become an advanced intermediate, which will let you start cantering. Cantering is when your horse leaps while running. The last level you can achieve is ‘horseman level’, where you really get to the fun stuff. You learn to jump and trot for long periods. When you become a Horseman, you use one of your activity periods to help clean the barn, tack horses, and feed the horses.
There are also a lot of other fun events you do in horse back riding, like swimming with the horses (that’s where you ride the horses in the water). You also go on trail rides to horse paths. I think the most fun event is the Netimus Horse Show. That is why horse back riding is the most fun class at Shohola.
Advanced Lacrosse
By James Geoghegan, cabin 15
Advanced Lacrosse is a very useful and helpful period. Jamie Ayers, Kevin Wright, Kevin Powell, and Sarah Head run the class. In the class, we practice our basic skills, which include throwing and catching skills, line drills and scrimmaging. These teachings help to better our lacrosse game during the off-season.
Besides our usual class routine, we also have contests in and out of camp, which include playing with water balloons and various games against Lake Owego and Netimus. Other than the advanced class, there is also a beginner class that introduces the newcomers to the basics and gives them knowledge of the rules of lacrosse. Overall, lacrosse has come to be one of the favorite and most enjoyable activities.
Soccer
By Adam Gaynor, cabin 11
Soccer is one of my favorite sports. It is a very fun activity. You can do things like learn new skills and even play against other camps. Soccer is also divided up into age groups so you won’t be with someone twice your size.
There are also nice counselors. They will listen to what you say and play games. They will also organize evening soccer tournaments around camp.
Street Hockey
By Max Steinberg, cabin 6
Hi, my name is Max Steinburg. I have period 1B street hockey. The counselors who instruct the class are mostly Jan Balner, John Gushman, and Mike Stransky. We are a pretty big class of kids. We usually start out with some drills and then we pick teams for a practice game. The best part about street hockey is the NHL leagues in camp. I play in the lower camp league. It’s made up of four teams. They play each other and then play a championship game at the end of the four weeks. My team is undefeated. I have a lot of fun playing street hockey at Shohola.
Soccer
By Alex Nord, cabin 1
Hi. My name is Alex Nord and this is my report on soccer. In soccer, you do drills like pass, get away from defenders, and shooting. We practice making the goalie go one way and the ball go the other. After that, we usually have a scrimmage. I think Colin and Max are the best all-around players. The game of soccer is unpredictable. Sometimes you score, miss, or hit the post. That is why I'm telling you to join soccer.
Ropes
By Alex Steinberg, cabin 1
Hi my name is Alex and I am writing an article about ropes. My counselors in ropes are Sarah, Ben and Chris. We learn in ropes how to lower ourselves down Shohola Falls and climb rock climbing walls. I love going on the zip line; it’s so fun. Me and my cousins like doing flips. Right when I go, I scream funny words like, “I'm a flying pig!” or “I'm a man, not a machine!” I always say ‘hi’ to Jessica in Silver Shop when I pass there and go back. I drop the rope and lower myself down and run the rope back and I'm done.
Fine Arts
Ceramics
By Eric Insler, cabin 13
Ceramics is the most challenging class I have ever taken in Camp Shohola. My goal as a beginner is to make a mug. Everyone in the class is making a tile about Camp Shohola. We use a lot of tools in ceramics. One is called the ‘rib’. It is called that because it used to be made out of ribs. Now it is made of either wood or plastic. We also use sponges. We can either use synthetic sponges, or the real thing. Long needles are also a necessity.
Alice, Ron, and Anne teach Ceramics. Anne is a professional potter. The hardest part of the class is using the wheel. You have to center your piece of clay exactly right on the wheel. Although it is the hardest class I have taken, it is also the most rewarding.
Planet Shohola 2002
By Paula Wettergreen, counselor
On Friday, July 12th, 2002, Camp Shohola put on a play by the campers, for the campers. The play was set in space and was a classic tale of good overcoming odds to beat evil. The cast was made up of the following campers and staff: Ryan Levan (cabin 15) as Puke Landswim, hero; Triin Sokk (counselor) as Ali 1 Kinali, mentor and leader; Andrew McRostie (Working Senior) as All Seeing Eye, mystic voice; Ethan Schmidt (15) as Adri Haze, female resistance fighter; Zach Frankel (15) as Daft Barger, evil emperor; and playing as unhappy campers, good posse, and guards were: Colin Steinberg (1), Matt Seskin (4), Joe Polinger (4), Andrew Seabrook (3), Andrew Corner (5), Eric Insler (13), Ian Slater (4), Nate Storb (4), and Elliott Williams (3).
Also appearing in the play: Sander Lebau (4) as Bounty Hunter and Adrian Hazel (senior staff) as Narrator. Eric Lubben (11) was in charge of music; Eli Colman (8), Marshall Rader (8), and Edmund Carlton (8) were directing lights; Alice Herzigova (c), Jane Flemming (c), and Sandra Shakkour (c) helped with props and scenery; and Nathan Pensler (5) and Hector Vazquez (8) controlled the curtains.
The play was a great success and everyone had lots of fun. Special thanks must go to Helen Cimera (nurse) for some of the props and to Camp Netimus, who generously lent some clothes to Camp Shohola. Adrian Hazell must be thanked for being so good at making things up at short notice.
As a half time treat, counselors performed “Time Warp” from The Rocky Horror Picture Show, to the complete enjoyment of all those present.
Silver Shop
By Tyler Woods, cabin 9
Silver Shop is a challenging activity that forces the camper to strive for the best. Most other camps do not offer such a unique activity, so I am glad that Shohola does. Some kids make rings or bracelets. Meanwhile, others make their own creations.
The counselors for this activity are exceptional. They provide guidance and teach us how to use different instruments, like the polisher or the torch. My piece of work is very difficult and intricate, but the counselors are very helpful and are helping me with it. Silver Shop rocks on!!!
Rocketry
By Andrew Schiff, cabin 13
I have rocketry period 3A and it is fun. Our teacher, Andras, shows us how to make rockets. He also makes sure that we are safe and that we don’t make mistakes. We can choose which skill level to make. There are three levels, the third level being the hardest. I chose to make a level 2 rocket. At the time of writing this, I had just attached the engine holder and the fins to the main rocket body. I am very excited because when our rockets are finished, we get to launch them!
Communications Technology
Advanced Electronics
By Jon Noble, Working Senior
What I found most interesting about Camp Shohola is the diversity in the activities offered. These activities range from water and land sports to arts and crafts and tech classes such as Advanced Electronics.
At first I was concerned about signing up for Advanced Electronics. I worried that it might be too hard, or maybe too easy. I thought that I might not know enough to take the class. Those thoughts soon changed as Dave Love walked up to the Commtech porch and started to explain everything we would need to know. On the first day alone, we learned everything from the exact definition of electricity to the workings of sound waves. There are two basic parts to the electronics class: The beginning of class has to do with learning the basics of electronics and building a small device of our own from our own imagination. The second part of the class is choosing and building different electronics kits like a strobe light or FM transmitter from given parts. A great combination of teachers and campers make this class a fun experience to have at Camp Shohola. Even though the class is fun, it does require some work. Therefore, the class should be taken seriously. Any one with even a small interest in electronics and science should love this class.
Web Page Design
By Gabriel Hanna, Working Senior
There is a class called Web Page Design. The class offers many challenges, but you can overcome them. The Internet can also be available for the use of web page design. The tricks offered at web page design are very interesting and also fun. The program that they offer for web page design is simple and easy to learn. The teachers at web page design are friendly. Web page design is the most educational thing you could do on the Internet.
Computer Music
By Dan Cimera, cabin 4
Computer Music is really cool. I like it because you can use so many different instruments and make different sounds and different rhythms. You can use instruments like guitars, drums, and cymbals. The counselors help you out when you change instruments and things like that. After you make a few songs, you put them on a blank CD. If your friends like the songs you made, then you could burn the CD on other blank CD’s and then give it to them. Computer music is a really cool class and if you didn’t take it this month or this year, you should take it next time.
Electronics
By Paul Meissner, cabin 15
This summer at Camp Shohola, I took Electronics. It was my second year taking this class, but it felt as though it was a new experience all together. They had changed the class around to clarify new things. We learned the importance of electricity and how we control it to fulfill our needs. My favorite class was when we were able to feel the effect of electricity. We also were able to build our own small appliances to provide hours of amusement. The electronics that I took was for beginners to intermediates, but no matter how much experience you had, it was still fun.
Photography
By Daniel Brill, working senior
This is my second year taking photography at Camp Shohola, and I think it is a top-notch activity at this camp. Last year, when I was in cabin 15, I reluctantly took photography. I soon enjoyed myself very much in the class. In photography, you learn how to roll film and put it in a camera. You also learn about all of the components of the camera including the aperture, the focus, and the light meter. After learning how to use the camera and rolling film in it, you can take still, action, dark or light pictures. Since I am a working senior, I can aid in the class. When I am an aid, I help the instructor by taking some of the campers out to take pictures, and the other campers stay with the instructor and print pictures. Sooner or later, all the campers will learn how to develop and print pictures through rotation.
Amateur (HAM) Radio
By Daniel Schoenholtz, cabin 7
In HAM Radio we talk on short-wave radios with other radio operators from all over the world. We are learning the Morse code and how radio signals bounce of the ionosphere. There are eight transceivers in the HAM radio room. Four operate on the shortwave frequencies and the other four are on the VHF and UHF radio bands. We use a computer that will automatically print the Morse code and will also tell us how well we are sending the code. The computer will also show pictures that hams send to each other. There are a lot of programs on the Internet that Hams use. Tom Gibson, the Amateur Radio counselor likes EchoLink, a program that lets us communicate over other radio repeaters from all over the world using the Internet. Our call sign is WB3DGR, the Camp Shohola Amateur Radio Club. Search for WB3DGR, our web site on the Internet and see if you can copy the morse code message.
Radio Broadcasting
By Alec Mitrovich
Radio is easily one of my favorite periods. We get to learn all about what our camp radio stations does. Learning how to operate a radio control console is very difficult but once you get the hang of it it’s really fun. Going on the air is also extremely exciting. Every time I flip the ‘On Air’ switch, I get the jitters. It’s so amazing how our camp has it’s own radio station. In class, we learn all about radio terminology and the do’s and don’ts of radio. We get to use everything from MP3’s on the computer to MiniDiscs and cart machines. In radio production, we make PSAs, PROMOs, and Ids for use on air. PSAs are Public Service Announcements, which reinforces a positive life style to all that listen. Promos promote a certain show on the air schedule and Ids are short sayings reminding our listeners what they are listening to. We record announcements by using a program called Cool Edit. Radio has been a really fulfilling experience and I will sign up for it every year.
Internet
By Jared Smith
How do campers and staff communicate with the world while attending Camp Shohola? The Internet! Camp Shohola is the only summer camp in the area to have a fully working camp wide network (LAN) consisting of over fifteen computers all connected to the Internet on a high speed connection. Campers have the opportunity to access the Internet whenever the computer room is not being used for activity classes. Along with the network computers, We also has five e-mail computers, where campers and staff can write e-mails home. E-mails sent into camp are printed and given to the campers during rest hour.
Many excellent courses are offered in the computer science area. Some courses include Pascal programming language, web design, and computer music. Qualified instructors teach the classes, with two, Tom Gibson and Dave Love being college professors.
2nd Month
Camp Life
A Look Inside
In order to get to know some of the staff around Camp Shohola, a few volunteers filled out “Profile” questionnaires. All of these staff members are here at Camp Shohola for the first time.
Alana Hodgins
Age: 23
Where are you from and/or where do you live? Brisbane, Australia
Occupation: Web Designer – Multimedia
How did you hear about Camp Shohola for Boys? Word of mouth. Sister-in-laws, sister
What do you do here at Camp Shohola for Boys? I teach Web Design and Video Production. I also supervise the Computer labs.
What have you learned from doing this job? Patience. I think I have had a glimpse at American society and experienced life here.
Cara Meling
Age: 20
Where are you from and/or where do you live? Lackawaxen, PA / Penn State University
Occupation: Student (photography/art major)
How did you hear about Camp Shohola for Boys? From my mother, George, who works here.
What do you do here at Camp Shohola for Boys? Nanny!
What have you learned from doing this job? One thing that I’ve learned is how to be patient. When you’re watching small children all day, you need to know that it takes them longer to do things that we take for granted, like putting shoes on or walking up a set of stairs. But overall, camp has been a great experience and I loved being around people from all different backgrounds. I will always remember my little flock of tookie birds.
Jocelyn Payton
Age: 47
Where are you from and/or where do you live? Born in Durham, NC, but grew up in Brooklyn, NY. Now I live in East Straudsburg, PA, after relocating from North Carolina.
Occupation: I am retired
How did you hear about Camp Shohola for Boys? Marnita Henderson is always singing Camp Shohola’s praises, so I wanted to find out myself.
What do you do here at Camp Shohola for Boys? I volunteer in the Kitchen when and where I’m needed.
What have you learned from doing this job? I have learned that it is tireless and thankless, but rewarding when you can put a smile on a boy’s face.
Triin Sokk
Age: 21
Where are you from and/or where do you live? Estonia
Occupation: Psychology student
How did you hear about Camp Shohola for Boys? I met Adrian at New York Wagner College, where I was waiting to get a camp. I’m very glad that Adrian chose me.
What do you do here at Camp Shohola for Boys? I work at the waterfront. I teach almost all the activities there, including swimming, canoeing, windsurfing, and kayaking. I also try to be a happy camper.
What have you learned from doing this job? When I first came, I did not know much about camps or camps like Shohola. It is very different from where I come from but I love it here. It is a great experience for kids and also for me. I can do things I’ve never done before and I have learned how to share my experience with other people.
I have made a fool out of myself, but it feels as if this is a normal thing to do. I’m having fun!
Morten Rasmussen
Age: 21
Where are you from and/or where do you live? I am from Denmark, and right now I am living with my parents. I am moving to my own apartment when I go home.
Occupation: I finished gymnasium 3 years ago, and then I worked in a daycare center for a year, with kids from 9-10 years old.
How did you hear about Camp Shohola for Boys? My friend Fred was here last year and he wanted to go again, and I joined him. He worked in the same day care center as I did.
What do you do here at Camp Shohola for Boys? I teach a lot of land sports. I teach soccer, hockey, riflery, archery, martial arts, and a lot of tennis. Fred and I are Head of Tennis at camp.
What have you learned from doing this job? I have learned very much, not only about myself, but also about other people. It is a big experience to work together with so many people. I have realized how important teamwork is, and it is not only for the counselors, but also among the campers. If there was no teamwork, there would be no camp; it is that simple.
I have also learned that camp work is very hard, but it is worth it. I have had a great summer, and if I have the time, I will probably be back next year.
The Talent Show
By Jon Hammer, counselor
From Greg Tinkham and the Human Contortionists, to Juan Manuel Jimenez, “The Mexican Jumping Bean,” to the Czech Mafia, the Camp Shohola Talent Show was an exciting one. We had many talented acts consisting of both campers and counselors. From the opening act with Jamie Ayers and the working seniors, we could tell it was going to be a success. We had two late entries that proved to be pleasant surprises. The “Campfire Favorites,” Dave Seskin and Rob Paderofsky, put on a great show of marshmallow tossing and dancing, and Ron Zeiler gave a more traditional performance with his harmonica songs. The old talent show favorite, “micro-midgets” were hilarious as always, but in the end, the Czech Mafia prevailed by using covert tactics to win the Talent Show. We look forward to many more performances next year.
Meaningful Days
By Kris Mercer, counselor
Early this year, I knew I was supposed to attend Camp Shohola. I didn’t know how meaningful it would be. Last summer, my wife and I had a baby boy named David Kase. He was born without kidneys and with under-developed lungs. It was a difficult summer and at the end, he passed away.
It is very possible that the campers at Shohola have meant more to me than I have to them. I am forever grateful for the opportunity to shoot lay-ups, catch fish, play golf, and cook burgers with Camp Shohola’s sons.
Throughout daily activities, I have witnessed character traits and qualities of young men that I would have liked my own son to have. I would have liked him to have the heart of Eric Cortellessa, the overwhelming smile of Sam Pensler, the brute strength of J.P. Colussi, the leadership skills of Mark McAuliffe, the wit of Zach Stone, the laugh and courage of Shawn Lee, and the enthusiasm of Andrew McRostie. There are many more young men whose character traits and qualities touched my heart.
My son was born on June 12th and he passed away on August 18th. That summer was the hardest of my life. This summer, I arrived at Camp Shohola on June 12th and camp ends on August 18th. It may be a coincidence, but it means much more than that to me. Thanks Camp Shohola!
The Kitchen
By Cody Weinberg, cabin 2
We here at Shohola all agree on one thing. We have all had awesome and outstanding meals. Every day for breakfast, we have cereal, then a hot meal. And lunch and dinner are good too! I just don’t know what to say, but at least I can say on thing that’s true. We have the best kitchen staff!!
Life as a Counselor
By Sarah Head, counselor
While being a counselor is undoubtedly a lot of fun, it surprises many people (even the counselors themselves, at times) just how much hard work is involved. When we just turn up, approximately a week before campers arrive, there are seven days of grueling labor to do. This includes things such as painting, setting out the docks on the waterfront, bringing out all the boating equipment, and then general clean-out. Very messy. However, it is by doing all these tasks that friendships and working relationships are established between staff. We have so much fun.
Being a female counselor, I am assigned to a cabin (hello cabin 11) each month. Within this role, I help with cabin clean-up, police duties, dances, and I get to do the fun things on cabin nights such as helping out with bowling and eating ice cream!
The really hard work, though, comes in organizing all the extra activities that make camp the most fun. For example, this month alone has included things such as the Pirate’s Breakfast, Breakfast in Bed, International Food Day, and Super Hero Day.
Despite all the hard work, I can’t imagine doing a more fun and rewarding job in my summer vacation! This is the reason that I doubt this year at camp will be neither mine, nor many of the other counselor’s last summer here at Camp Shohola. It’s an addiction that keeps us coming back every year!
Windsurf Acrobatics July ’02
By Adrian Hazell, assistant director
The late afternoon sun was shining brightly across the rippled water of the lake, as the first “Camp Shohola Windsurf Acrobatics Championship” commenced.
Using the windsurf board as their stage, the 11 talented youngsters each had two attempts to impress and amaze the esteemed panel of officials. With a combination of flips, twists, dancing, and free-style entertaining, the campers had to win their way into the judge’s favor. The cat-like balance and simian agility of the acrobats had the spectators staring in awe, with the campers/gymnasts finishing off their routines with some impressive dismounts into the cool Shohola waters. After scintillating performances by Juan Manuel Jimenez, Mike Karp, Ben Lerner, Pablo Martin, Joe Polinger, Jared Schwartz, Andrew Seabrook, Ben Share, Hector Vazquez, Joe Von Schmidt and Tyler Woods, the judges retired to try and separate the field by score.
Andrew took 3rd place, and Jared took a solid 2nd place with a series of impressive flips. In 1st place, scoring 9/10, Juan Manuel Jimenez took the title with his all-singing-and-dancing effort – the best ever Windsurf Acrobatics performance in camp Shohola’s history.
Pizza, Pizza, Pizza!
By Eric Cortellessa, cabin 5
My name is Eric Cortellessa and I’m writing about the kitchen. The kitchen staff is very nice, and the food they make is always very good, but sometimes just not my kind of food. There is always a good selection to eat. The kitchen staff consists of Marnita, Jermall, Kamil, Jocelyn, Andrej, Jozef, Jakub, and Filip. They are all a good group of chefs. My favorite meal here at Camp Shohola is pizza and curly fries. My least favorite meal is mashed potatoes, bread, and ham.
Camper of the Week
Waterfront
Kayaking: Sean Lee, Jordan Eilat, Jamie Duarte; Winsurfing: ShuShu Dube, Cody Weinberg, Taylor Luskin; Sailing: Hector Vasquez, Erik Pearson, Cody Weinberg; Fishing: Quin Trigg, JP Colussi, Philip Khoury; Swimming: Malcom Hale, Thomas Parker, Kamiyo Gatlin; Canoeing: Jonathan Helman, Danny Lee
Landsports
Skating: Juan Manuel, Phil Weiner, Patrick Daugherty; Lacrosse: Mark McAuliffe; Soccer: Eric Asker, Shawn Lee, Eric Cortellesa, Noah Sennett; Riflery: Gabe Hanna, Phil Weiner, Danny Tessler; Basketball: Jorge Quiles, Teron Bridgett, Elon Bridgett; 11-U Basketball: Kamiyo Gatlin; 13-U Basketball: Jason Anderson; Baseball: Greg Tinkham; Hockey: J.P. Colussi, David Hecker; Archery: Carlos DeLlano; Riding Fall of the week: V.J. Scrapits; Riding: Aaron Insler, Joe Pollinger; Ropes: Elliott Williams
CommTech
Radio: Andy Edwards, Ethan Schmidt, Zach Frankel; Sports Broadcast: Andrew McRostie; Computer Programming: Max De Arriz; Photography: Jonathan Helman, Andy Beate; Video Production: David Angeles, Andres Angeles; General Technology: Ethan Schmidt, Elliott Williams, Robert Bortner; HAM Radio: Zach Howard; Caller of the week: Josh Fleishman; Web Design: Malcom Hale, Patrick Duff; Amateur Radio: Max Lifson; DJ’ing: Matt Adelman
Fine Arts
Stained Glass: Erik Pearson, David Angeles, Cody Weinberg; Rocketry: Taylor Luskin, Elliott Williams, Joe Polinger; Woodshop: Zach Frankel; Pottery: Jonathan Helman, Max Lifson, V.J. Skrapits; Silvershop: Greg Tinkham, Ben Staples; Cartooning: Roberto Baptista, Cody Weinberg
Miscellaneous
Tripping: Stephen Kaplan, Reade Etherington; Astronomy: Elliott Williams; Apache Race: Andrew McRostie; Nature: Pedro Orozco, Philip Khoury; Ocean Trip: Sam Selub; Hiking: Joe Von Schmidt
Snowballs, Snowballs, Snowballs
By Mandy Pulker, counselor
Unfortunately, you have to be a knighted Polar Bear to know what we did this summer in Polar Bear Club. What we are able to tell you is that all campers and counselors who took part in this outrageous activity enjoyed every moment.
For five consecutive days, we woke up at 6:30 a.m. and went down to the water’s edge, where we participated in different activities. At the end of the fifth day, all Polar Bears were knighted and taught the Polar Bear Secret Handshake.
One of the advantages of being a Polar Bear is the privileges you are entitled to. These privileges range from ice cream to being allowed to jump on the water trampoline.
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Amateur Radio
By Daniel Schoenholtz, first month camper
In HAM Radio, we talk on short-wave radios with other radio operators from all over the world. We are learning the Morse code and how radio signals bounce off of the ionosphere. There are eight transceivers in the HAM radio room. Four operate on the shortwave frequencies and the other four are on the VHF and UHF radio bands. We use a computer that will automatically print the Morse code and will also tell us how well we are sending the code. The computer will also show pictures that Hams send to each other.
There are a lot of programs on the Internet that Hams use. Tom Gibson, the Amateur Radio counselor, likes EchoLink, a program that lets us communicate over other radio repeaters from all over the world using the Internet. Our call sign is WB3DGR, the Camp Shohola Amateur Radio Club. Search for WB3DGR, our web site on the Internet, and see if you can copy the Morse code message.
Photography… Without Film
By David Angeles, cabin 6
I’m new at Camp Shohola but I have liked Digital Photography very much. I didn’t know how to use a digital camera, but now I’m learning. I didn’t know that you could mix the images. But well, one can’t know everything. Or can you?
I have had much fun this month in digital photography and I hope that those of you who return will choose to take the class.
Anatomy of “Stuff”
By Ethan Schmidt, cabin 15
General Technology is a new activity offered in 2002. Mark Baier teaches this fairly small class on the CommTech porch, where we learn paper-and-pencil games and other mind-stretching exercises. Currently, we are carefully dissecting an old lawn mower.
We’ve not only learned the inner workings of a simple combustion engine, but the many uses of the tools inside Mark’s magical toolbox. It is fun.
Radio Broadcasting
By Eric Cortellessa, cabin 5
My name is Eric Cortellessa. I’m in cabin 5 and I take Radio Broadcasting. I enjoy being the people’s listening pleasure. I don’t like taking so much time to learn everything. I met Sam Edwards. Nothing exciting has happened yet, but I think something will come up. It takes about two weeks to become a DJ. Until then, you learn how to operate the radio board. I want to do a talk show on WCSR, Camp Shohola’s radio station. I recommend Radio Broadcasting to everyone.
No Academy’s Here
By Gabriel Paoletti, Cabin 14
This summer I took a new class, Video Production, for the first time. I learned how to use a camera and that was the coolest thing. I met new people; and with these people, we work on CommTech’s porch. The major thing we used was the camera, but most of us had to act. We decided to do a Jeopardy show. The project is proceeding very well. In our Jeopardy show, there is a host, a skateboarder, a pop group, and two Mexican brothers. Each of us gets to ask three questions. I think that the people who are teaching Video Production are having fun too.
Information Super Highway
By Jared Smith, guest reporter
How do campers and staff communicate with the world while attending Camp Shohola? The Internet! Camp Shohola is the only summer camp in the area to have a fully working camp-wide network (LAN), consisting of over fifteen computers, all connected to the Internet on a high-speed connection.
Campers have the opportunity to access the Internet whenever the computer room is not being used for activity classes. Other than the network computers, we also have five e-mail computers, where campers and staff can write emails home. E-mails sent into camp are printed and given to the campers during rest hour.
WCSR Greeley Rock
By Alec Mitrovich, first month camper
Radio is easily one of my favorite periods. We get to learn all about what our camp radio stations does. Learning how to operate a radio control console is very difficult, but once you get the hang of it, it’s really fun. Going on the air is also extremely exciting. Every time I flip the ‘On Air’ switch, I get the jitters. It’s so amazing how our camp has it’s own radio station. In class, we learn all about radio terminology and the “do’s and don’ts” of radio. We get to use everything from MP3’s on the computer to MiniDiscs and cart machines.
In radio production, we make PSAs, PROMOs, and Ids for use on air. PSAs are Public Service Announcements, which reinforces a positive lifestyle to all that listen. Promos promote a certain show on the air schedule and Ids are short sayings reminding our listeners what they are listening to. We record announcements by using a program called Cool Edit. Radio has been a really fulfilling experience and I will sign up for it every year.
Photography…with film
By Daniel Brill, working senior
This is my second year taking photography at Camp Shohola, and I think it is a top-notch activity at this camp. Last year, when I was in cabin 15, I reluctantly took photography. I soon enjoyed myself very much in the class. In photography, you learn how to roll film and put it in a camera. You also learn about all of the components of the camera, including the aperture, the focus, and the light meter. After learning how to use the camera and rolling film in it, you can take still, action, dark or light pictures. Since I am a working senior, I can aid in the class. When I am an aid, I help the instructor by taking some of the campers out to take pictures, and the other campers stay with the instructor and print pictures. Sooner or later, all the campers will learn how to develop and print pictures through rotation.
A Relaxing Day
By Stephen Kaplan, working senior
On August 8th at about 10:00 a.m., we left Camp Shohola, bound for the Gunks. In the van were seven people in total. There were two counselors, Chris and Beth, and 5 campers: Josh Einhorn, Hector Vazquez, Brian Onley, Fernando Montes, and me.
It was a beautiful day, and although our original plans were thwarted by the DEC (Department of Environmental Control) because we didn’t make reservations, we eventually did get to climb. One of the climbs was a crack called “Ken’s Crack.” It was rated a 5.9 out of a possible 5.14. It was a great, hard climb, and at the end of it, at least I knew that I couldn’t have tried harder. Although Chris and I were the only ones to reach the top, I am positive that the others could have reached the top had they owned rock-climbing shoes.
After the two routes were climbed, and then we were taken down, everybody went swimming in the natural spring. All in all, everybody had fun, and it was a relaxing day at the Gunks.
The Wheels on the Bike Go Round & Round
By Eric Insler, cabin 13
“What comes up, must come down” is the only proverb that matters to mountain bikers. On Wednesday, July 24th, I went on a mountain biking trip with Gabe, from Hungary, and Erik, from Denmark. We went to a local mountain, over the Delaware.
The beginning of the trip was rough and challenging. Sharp up-hills and inclines led to short down hills. We did this for an hour and a half, until we reached an overlook. This gave us a serene view of the Delaware River.
On our way back, we ate lunch by a waterfall. After we ate, we swam in the lake. We then took a shorter trail home, before ending with an even shorter trip by Shohola Falls. It was a great trip.
The Big Y
By Jeff Sadri, working senior
The Big Y is a 3-day white water rafting trip. About 15 campers went. The counselors that were on the trip were Johnny A., Heidi, Angie, Aussie Rob, and Justin Von Schmidt. It turned out to be a lot of fun.
The rapids ranged from class 3 to class 4, which is an intermediate level. No experience is required. Five people, including a counselor, are in each raft. The river is 7 ½ miles long, with some spots of calm water. Along the way, we stopped for lunch, which consisted of cold cuts and peanut butter and jelly. We were also able to swim one of the rapids; it wasn’t very rough. There were 2 types of rapids, waves and hydraulics. A wave is just like that in the ocean; a hydraulic is an occurrence of “sucking” water. There is always a drop and the people in the raft have to paddle very hard.
It took us six hours to get to the campsite. Everybody set up their tents and had dinner. The next day, we rafted along the river. Last year, when I went on the Big Y, we stopped at the natural water slide. We did not have time to do it this year. During some of the roughest and biggest rapids, people fell out of their rafts. For example, my raft, which consisted of all the working seniors, hit a rock very fast. Our raft flipped over, but luckily no one was hurt. It was very freaky. At the end of the day, everybody was tired.
The last day, we took down our tents and headed back for camp. We even got to stop at a fast food restaurant for lunch. The Big Y was a great experience. No matter what age you are, you can go. If you want to enjoy a challenging and fun day of rafting, go on this trip.
Mountain Biking
By Martin Miloschewsky, working senior
This trip was a bit different than the others. We were only two campers and two counselors. No other people from second month have interest in mountain biking.
Trip started like usual with meeting at 9:30 a.m. in dinning hall to prepare some sandwiches for lunch. Today it was really fast; at 11:00 a.m. we left to horse stables for bikes. At 11:10 a.m. we left with all gear ready for biking.
Today we found our destination really quickly, because Gabe was there last year. The place was nice and no one was there yet.
Now we had about two hours between first part of trip until lunch at 1:00 p.m. We rode in a wood where there were a lot of fallen sticks and sometimes trees too. There must have been a strong storm last day, and maybe in night also. Trail was not so difficult. But there were a lot of intense hills. Eric Insler has sometimes a bit of problems, but he was brave and got up the trail with a happy mind and smile at his lips. After an hour, we reached the top of highest hill in nearest county. We saw some river in the valley (I think that it was the Delaware River). Eric took some pictures, so I hope you can see it. The trip back was really faster, because we went mostly uphill on way forward, so on the way back we get mostly downhill. It was awesome because I like fast parts. For lunch, Gabe chose really lovely place under waterfall. We had our bathing suits, so we could go swimming. Water was really warm and tidy. Some older guys were jumping from a high rock to the water. We tried to go through the waterfall. It was really nice massage for our tired muscles. We spent there about one hour. We were recharged, so we could continue with biking. We tried another trail from the parking lot, but it returned back to the main trail. So we went to the car and tried to find some trails in Shohola Rest Center, but we didn’t find anything. So the trip ended at half past three, a bit earlier than normal, but it doesn’t matter. This trip was a nice example of a really good trip of Camp Shohola.
White Mountains
By Reade Etherington, working senior
I was very excited to find out that we were doing this trip again this year because last year it contributed to my personal growth mentally and physically.
On the first day, we only hiked 2.5 miles to our campsite because it is straight uphill and we weren’t really in shape at all.
On the second day, we felt so refreshed to be hiking, because our muscles are already much stronger than before. The second day is the longest hiking day because we cover over 12 ½ miles and peak over 3 mountains. This hike really assures that you get a good night’s sleep because it is so challenging.
The third day we only hiked a little over six miles because all of us were so exhausted from the long hike the previous day.
The fourth day starts with a very hard ascent and on this day we peak our hardest and highest mountain, Mt. Lafayette, which had amazing views. When the hike is over, I was sad to think I might not get to do it again, but happy because it was so hard.
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Roller Hockey
By David Hecker, cabin 8
In 13 and under Roller Hockey, we have so much fun. Usually in class we do some drills. After we do the drills, we usually play really fun scrimmages. The teachers are John Gushman, Fred Dam, and Mike Stransky. All of them are nice. What I like about roller hockey is that the counselors ask you what you want to do instead of doing what they want to do. They are very good teachers of roller hockey. I think that Roller Hockey is the most fun class in camp. I met many new people that I will remember for a long time.
Having fun with Ropes
By Brian Bomalaski, Cabin 15
Ropes class has been a Camp Shohola classic course that everybody enjoys. The class is a two period class, which is well needed for the challenges that “Patty Wacker” assigns us. We got to use a variety of equipment, climb on a variety of walls, and zip on the zip line.
There are very exciting things there, such as the giant’s ladder, which is my favorite. It is a series of bars going up that are separated by gaps of four to five feet. You and your partner have to help each other get up because the ladder swings and is not connected to the ground on the bottom.
The one thing that I hate the most is when Varkies makes you do push-ups and kiss the rope if you step on it. We cannot step on the ropes because it makes the rope weak over time and could break. But Ropes is one of the best classes in camp so I definitely recommend taking the class if you haven’t taken the class yet.
Hoopin’ it Up
By Charles Babalola, cabin 13
This year, 15-U basketball is one of my favorite classes. The instructors help us improve our skills by working with us individually. We practice shooting drills, lay ups, fast breaks, and other techniques. In addition to practicing, the class also scrimmages. The instructors divide the class into groups, which play against each other. We play other camps like Greeley, Pine Forest, and Owego. We beat those camps at basketball due to our great counselors and training. Personally, the class has made me a lot better and I have a very good chance of starting on my school team. I would like to thank especially Kris Mercer and the others who helped me play better. Thanks Kris and Shohola.
Nature! Nature! Nature!
By Pedro Orozco, working senior
Hello, my name is Pedro and I am a working senior talking about Nature. In Nature, you learn things that help you to understand nature and its good to know them. The thing I most enjoy in Nature is all the silence you hear. It is so peaceful and there is no screaming for no reason. But I don’t like it when we talk about things like clouds, or other things that aren’t very interesting to me. I met Sandra. We smelled a lot of things; but I am not good with smells, so I don’t think I can match smells with objects. I hear the best sounds, like the birds and the river. I recommend that all of the people who don’t know how to be calm take Nature because nature relaxes you so much. It is so nice.
The Apache Race
By Julien Nadeau, working senior
The Apache Race is a Green and White event that is held every year during the second session. The race combines 65 different events, ranging from shooting 10 free throws to finding a potato in the crib. It is usually completed in about 2 ½ hours and helps to determine the winner of the Color War at the end of camp.
Every camper in camp participates in this enormous race, unless they wish not to be a part of it. Usually the working seniors stay out of the race, but this year they participated. While campers participate, the captains and co-captains of both teams run around camp and get the rest of the campers ready for their events.
The winner of the Apache Race receives 75 points, but there are also 5 different bonus stations. The losing team could reach all five bonus stations first and still tie the winners of the race. This year, the Green team won the Apache Race, partly because of some new rules.
Swollen Baseball
By Josh Fleishman, cabin 15
Softball has always been a Camp Shohola excellence. Our boys are known for beating any team that steps onto the field. But where it all starts is in the softball class. The counselors and campers are always doing things to make each individual become a stronger player, as well as true team player. From experience, the demands of the counselors helps me stay fresh during the off-season and makes me a better player. Softball is a great game and I would like to see Shohola’s reputation of winning last for many summers to come!
Mini Tennis
By Ethan Schimdt, cabin 15
Ping-Pong is fun. Camp Shohola has four ping pong tables to play on, so that everyone can play at the same time. Sometimes we play doubles or put two tables together and play four square. Our counselor, Tomas, formed a mini-tournament and we played and recorded our scores. I have become a better ping pong player, since I get to practice against some other good players in my class.
The Art of Kicking and Punching
By Christian Blandford, cabin 13
Martial Arts is fun and sometimes strenuous. It teaches you discipline and cool kicks. I like the Martial Arts program at Camp Shohola because we are learning new and cool things.
I take Martial Arts at home, so I enjoy taking Martial Arts at camp. At the beginning of class, we stretch and do exercises. Then we learn new moves and practice them.
I like Martial Arts and it is a fun sport. It teaches you cool things about life and Martial Arts.
Knots, etc.
By Christopher Gibson, cabin 7
Ropes is an excellent class. In this class, you will learn to climb several different courses, as well as rappel. You will learn trust and teamwork, as well as a passion and skill for climbing.
This two period class is packed with entertainment and fun. After climbing the wall, you can ride the zip line. You may also go on fun-filled trips to Shohola Falls, where you can rappel down a 120-ft. cliff, as well as a fabulous assortment of different places.
The ropes course is great. It has many different attractions, such as the “Spider’s Web,” the zip line, the swinging wall, and the log bridge, which is suspended about 50 ft. above the ground. It is well designed and built to bring you fun and excellent training for the mountains.
The ropes instructors are awesome. They are fun to be around and they prepare you for your adventures that lay ahead. They help and guide you to have the greatest time here at Shohola. This class is one of the best and I recommend it to all who attend Camp Shohola.
Hug a Tree in PA
By Hector Vasquez and Marshall Rader, Cabin 8
Nature is, by far, our favorite class because all the counselors (George, Eric, and Sandra) are very nice to us. We’ve taken Nature for all of the years it has been offered. Every year, George comes up with new learning materials and new activities. In Nature class, we learn how to catch animals and take care of them. We also enjoy the Nature Trail. The nature cabin is right in front of the creek and there are woods surrounding it. We even tasted mint leaves and blue berries. We heard crickets and the creek water flowing. We smelled mint leaves too. In nature class, we used nets to catch whirligigs and butterflies. Everyone always enjoys the nature secret, which always brings smiles to people’s faces.
Giddy’ Up
By Edmund Carlton, Cabin 8
This year I have taken riding for the third straight summer. I am in the advanced intermediate class. We learn walking, trotting, cantering, and jumping skills. The teachers are Dave Seskin, Karen, and Karin. Every year, everyone in riding participates in the Netimus Horse Show for a friendly competition. It is lots of fun. While that happens twice a month, an even more competitive horse show happens only in the second month. It is the Green-White Horse Show. It is one of the more important Green-White events. That is all I have to express, besides that riding is really fun!
LAX
By ShuShu Dube, cabin 3
Lacrosse is a fun sport. I like Lacrosse because I enjoy sports in which you use equipment other than hands and feet. In class, we practice techniques such as stick handling, passing and shooting. We scrimmage each other and also other nearby camps. No matter what skill level you are, Camp Shohola has a class for you!
Intra Camp NHL
By Mark McAuliffe, working senior
Within Camp Shohola, there are sporting competitions in sports like street hockey, basketball, and soccer. We form four teams that play each other to become the champions for the summer. One sport that I enjoy a lot is street hockey. I always want to be the champion for the summer.
This year, I am a captain of one of the NHL teams because I am a Working Senior. During the first month, my team won one game out of three games, but it is not affecting the championships for the summer. The games were very close and lots of fun.
The first game of the second month started out strange, with a huge victory over another team, nine to one. We still have more games to play, and I am sure that we will play well. The intra camp games are a lot of fun because it gives us something to do during evening activities and show our skills in many different sports.
Pike County Track Meet
By Natasha McCarthy, counselor
On Sunday, July 28th, Shohola took part in the Pike County Track Meet. Competing against Owego, Lake Greeley, and New Jersey Y, a team of 13 boys competed in 13 events, in both the 13 and 15-under age groups. In hot, humid conditions, and with little time to rest in between races, the team managed a number of top 3 finishes.
Notably:
Fernando Laposse in the 13-U, and Josh Fleishman in the 15-U, both placed 3rd in the 400m. Robert Schiff placed 2nd in the 15-U 1600m. Josh Fleishman came in 3rd in the 15-U 110h. In the 100m Dash Finals, Brian Onley was 3rd in the 13-U and Gabe Hanna placed 3rd in the 15-U.
In Standing Long Jump, Ryan Levan came in 3rd in 15-U. And in Long Jump, Brian Onley placed 3rd in the 13-U. Congratulations to these guys and to all the boys that represented Shohola!
This year, we are also proud to announce that Shohola broke four Pike County Track Meet records:
Skateboarding
By Phil Weiner, working senior
We started off the second month with a few advanced skaters. As the session went on, kids began learning how to ollie, kick flip, heel flip, and were trying grinds left and right. Jamie Ayers and I both taught kids how to flow when they skate and how to make your tricks feel smoother when you do them. In the beginning, we all set goals. Maybe they were tricks you were trying to do, or maybe it was overcoming a fear of falling.
Philip Ayers and Ben Schlosser acted as smaller aids when Jaime and myself weren’t able to help everyone in a period. I believe that most of Shohola’s skaters will go home with at least one new trick up their sleeves.
European Football
By Rusty Mower, cabin 3
Hi, I’m Rusty and I am going to tell you about soccer class. We do drills to help us catch the ball with parts of our body. We dribble and also do drills to improve our dribbling. We often play World Cup, scrimmages, and we go out and beat other camps in soccer and in tournaments. We have a really great time in competition and in our regular class time.
Fine Arts
Martial Arts and Crafts
By Taylor Luskin, Cabin 8
In cartooning, we really don’t learn. It’s more like you just do stuff, and learn as you go. In cartooning, the counselor is Eric Shansby. He tends to fool around a lot. That is a joy to the whole class.
Also, you get to use all sorts of good equipment. You use India ink. Also, we use markers and .5 and .7 millimeter pens. Cartooning is very fun and I would suggest to anybody and everybody “Do it next year.”
Clay on Wheels
By Matt Seskin, cabin 4
Ceramics is a brand new class at Camp Shohola. The class is two periods long. It is located in the old Arts & Crafts building. I have a very big, but nice, class. The teacher is Anne. She always calls us the “Future Pot Makers of America.” Whatever! She is a professional and a great teacher.
In the class, we can either throw on the wheel or build by hand. Throwing is very hard. First, you throw your piece on the wheel. Next, to center it, you put it in a cone and push it back down. Afterwards, you open and make the floor of your pot. Then you lift the clay so it is even. The last step is cutting it off. Our goal is to make a pot taller than it is wide. It takes a great deal of strength and it’s harder than it looks.
Another thing you can do in pottery is slab hand building. With this, you can make almost anything you want. I made a nice, tall vase. I find slab building the most fun.
The last thing we do in ceramics is glaze making and painting. Glaze is like paint for clay. In glaze making, we put all kinds of ingredients together, including metal, color, rocks, and more.
When we paint, we wax the bottom of the pot so it doesn’t stick to the kiln, which we fire it in. We can paint all kinds of designs and things on our pots. Pottery is one of the best classes in camp.
Is it even Real Silver?
By Dan Cimera, Cabin 4
Silver Shop is a fun class to take. In Silver Shop, you do many different projects. You can make different kinds of jewelry, like rings, earrings, and bracelets. You can also make necklaces, but they are pretty hard to make.
The first week you cut shapes out of sheet metal. Then you could either enamel or polish the piece. Enamel is powdered glass that you put on either copper or silver. Then you use the blowtorch to melt it on and it looks better.
When you make rings, you can use small strips of metal or make a twist ring out of different metal wires. You can also make a twist bracelet or necklace. It is a really cool class and if you didn’t take it this year, you should next year.
Colored Windows
By Jewell Gatlin, cabin 7
Stained glass is a very hard, but fun activity. You can make different designs from different books or you can make your own design. The best type of designs for beginners are boxes.
As you get more advanced, you can make things like bears, 3D shapes, and other animals. This class is the best and I enjoy it very much.
Sawing and Sanding
By Taylor Pitkin, Cabin 1
Woodshop is fun. You can make lots of stuff. You can cut stuff. You can also sand stuff. You can also design stuff. I'm making a tic-tac-toe board. It is fun. It is easy.