It seems only fitting that today’s high was forecasted as 76 degrees. Spirit of ’76…76 Trombones…Philadelphia 76ers…it all fits.
Friday, July 4th started with a bang…and then more and more bangs. With the Tents away, the 10th graders will play. After staying up late last night to decorate the dining hall, the oldest campers currently occupying camp had the task of waking up the rest of us. With metal bowls and spoons in hand, they noisily made their way through the Village and up the Ridge, banging loudly until every camper’s eyes were open.
Morning lineup was a canvas of red, white, and blue, displaying all sorts of Americana. From the Kool-Aid man to Uncle Sam, the costumes were on point. Headbands and bandannas, sunglasses and cowboy hats — everything bearing the stars and stripes. Cheers of “USA! USA!” punctuated the morning air. These boys came to play. Well done, parents. You packed some good stuff this summer!
At breakfast, Scotty provided the tunes and campers provided the energy. We enjoyed French toast with syrup and whipped cream as “Born in the USA” and “Firework” blasted from the speakers. Kyle brandished the whipped cream canister and was extra generous with the helpings (on plates and in mouths). Just as Katy Perry reached the first chorus, “Baby, you’re a fiiiiiiirework!” — a large crowd gathered at the center of the dining hall and started enthusiastically jumping up and down, singing along.
Campers sprung from their seats and formed a Conga line as soon as they heard the first few bars of “Party in the USA.” Owegans big and small wound their way through the dining hall, hands on each other’s shoulders, encouraging seated campers to join them.
And that’s when the Krispy Kreme donuts made their appearance.
Staff passed out the sugary treats to elated campers and everyone wondered, “Will it ever be this good again?” The answer, of course, is yes — but we understand the sentiment.
After breakfast and clean-up, we gathered on the Upper Field for the postponed soccer game. Waiting was clearly the correct decision, as today’s weather was just about as perfect as you can get in the month of July. Our American staff warmed up on one side of the pitch, while our International counselors practiced their shots on goal. Campers dragged Crazy Creeks and soccer chairs to the sidelines, forming a formidable cheering section. Once the match was underway, it was non-stop action on both sides of the ball. Though the competition was fierce, there were plenty of big smiles as well as lots of good-natured ribbing. When the final whistle blew, the International counselors came out victorious and everyone shook hands in a display of good sportsmanship.
For 4th of July lunch every year, we enjoy B’s and D’s. But these aren’t your usual B’s and D’s. These are all-American, “I love my country,” foot-long hot dogs. Massive foot-long buns included. A Junior camper walked by with two on his plate! Respect to that kid. Someone asked if there was dessert. There wasn’t. Most of us were still hyped up on the Krispy Kremes from breakfast, so we weren’t too disappointed.
The afternoon was as glorious as the morning. Under clear blue skies and warm sunshine, the second big staff matchup of the day took place on Danny’s Diamond. The 4th of July staff softball game is an Owego tradition, and it was an opportunity for the members of Team USA to redeem themselves. And redeem themselves they did, beating the International staff 14 to 4. Kudos to Freedo for his pitching performance, and to the rest of team USA for their outstanding offense! Once the softball game ended, campers dragged their chairs back to the bunks and headed straight for Rec. Swim! It was a perfect way to wrap up the day.
Tonight’s main event was held down the road at Timber Tops. Seniors and Hi-Seniors were bused over first, and met the CTT girls up the hill by the tennis courts for a social event. The Juniors arrived next, and joined their CTT counterparts at the stage for some fun and games (and Rocket Pops). Once the sun started to set, everyone gathered by bunk on the CTT tennis courts. The fireworks display was underway by 8:15, an impressive display of color and light, loud bangs, and familiar songs. Owegans watched with eyes aglow, tired but satisfied after a long day of celebration and Brotherhood.
And of Krispy Kremes.
