Like all great explorers, who followed routes previously charted by those who came before them, Bunks Maverick A and B spent part of the holiday weekend on an overnight adventure. The youngest group so far to venture out of camp and into the great wide open, these 6th graders boarded their canoes after dinner on Friday and worked together in teams of 3 or 4 to paddle from the Lake Greeley beach at Pine Forest to fabled Blueberry Island. After setting up camp, they enjoyed a bonfire with roasted hot dogs and s’mores. Word is, there was even some sleeping involved before heading back to Owego the following morning in time for breakfast.
On Saturday, Owego hosted a Play Day for 15 prospective campers. While their families toured Owego and learned more about our rich traditions, the (potentially) future Owegans immersed themselves in camp life. Ropes, camp craft, tennis, basketball, arts & crafts — these boys tried it all! Swimming was a must, due to the excessive heat, and the rest of camp enjoyed staying cool in the pool as an Evening Activity!
Elsewhere in camp, there were optional activities galore! Top Basketball, a 3-day intensive with athletics staff, kicked off at Pine Forest. Participants who register in advance have the unique opportunity to fine-tune their basketball skills while interacting with their peers from TimberTops and Pine Forest. Run by Steve Chadwin, longtime athletic director at Pine Forest, Top Basketball has quickly become one of the most popular “optional” offerings at camp.
Extra! Extra! Read (and write) all about it — PEN MAKING IS BACK! This annual favorite commenced Saturday and will continue through the weekend. Ryan Carroll, a high school teacher from Cincinnati, brought his wood samples, sanding equipment, and pen components to Owego, set up shop by the picnic grove, and spent the weekend guiding campers of all ages through the pen-making process. Ryan is a friendly fixture at Owego, and many campers remember him year after year. The next letter you receive could have very well been written by a handmade pen!
Top Cooks and Top Soccer (a new offering this summer) both held sessions today. And no Sunday would be complete without a brother/sister/cousin visit at TimberTops. Though most of these siblings spent time together on the Fourth of July, they always appreciate a little extra family time and even a few extra hugs!
The coming week sees our 11th graders returning from Costa Rica, and the much-anticipated performance of “Seussical the Musical” on Scotty’s stage. As First Session begins to wind down, the energy level at Owego remains high. Campers are fully engaged in a wide variety of activities, and the question on everyone’s mind is, “When will Olympics break out?” Paris has nothing on Owego!
Stay tuned!
