Captain’s Log

Tuesday, July 2nd, 2024

BLACK OAK RANCH circa 3:30pm—Piercing sun rays ricochet off the shuttle’s hood in a staccato pattern, sweeping from right to left as I change heading, following the lumpy access road. Three weeks of ranch driving has accumulated on the windshield a fractal lattice of dust. The 10 mile-per-hour speed limit gives me ample opportunity to regard trees like old friends—the soaring guardsman at the parking lot turn, the one-armed ogre near the footpath crossing. The pale tones of grass, gravel and sky unite in a pounding brightness. Marvin Gaye’s “Inner City Blues” contributes to the hypnotic eeriness of the scene. Vultures circle overhead.

High temperatures this afternoon have triggered the “Double Shuttle” contingency plan to get more kids to visit Lake Veronica, which is why I find myself once again driving my Chevy to the levy. Even with the full AC blasting, the heat clings to the skin like an unwanted parka. The drive from Downtown Camp to Lake Veronica is only about 7 minutes, but a typical shuttle shift includes about eight round-trips. I come to a stop at the road bend overlooking our lake access point, marking the halfway point of my sixth lap.

“LAAAAAKE SHUTTLE!” I shout.

A group of campers break away from the nectarine and Goldfish snack bowls to jog up the hill toward the road, towels over shoulders and hands outstretched to maintain balance on the uneven slope. They identify themselves as members of the Orange Tipi.

“Seatbelts on!,” I declare before making a careful u-turn. The first leg takes us on several ‘S’ curves between the blackberries and cattails.

“The lake was pretty slay,” said Jolie, 13. “There was a lot of lily pads which was gross, so you might not want to go if you can’t handle squishy underwater things.”

Arriving at Downtown Hogville (see: Hog Farm Commune), we turn left down the hill, right at the geodesic dome, and onward under the aforementioned trees.

“The counselors giving the swim ratings were really nice,” says Eva, 12.

We roll over large speed bumps while passing Irene’s organic vegetable garden. A cartoon image of a triumphant pig in a jumpsuit demarcates the corner gate.

“The AC is really good; it’s like 100 degrees out there,” says Liz, 13, of the shuttle. “I like the lake shuttle because it’s a good way to reconnect to the city.”

“It’s a chill way to cool off before going to the lake,” adds Zoe, 13.

“Beats walking!” quips Aurora, 13.

“It’s a great way to meet new people or talk to someone you wouldn’t otherwise,” says Skye 13.

We cross the large green metal bridge and descend into Camp proper, where people mill about in search of afternoon intrigue. The shuttle lumbers through, uncomfortably large in the pedestrian pathways, finally arriving at the Downtown Crossroads, where all my passengers disembark.

“LAAAAAKE SHUTTLE!” I shout. And the beat goes on.

Stay hydrated,

—J. Payseno

…

PS: Yesterday my colleague Song Leader Natalie Garms collected some opening day quotations to add to the blog feed. Enjoy:

Djuna, 23, gave her interview while hanging upside-down.

“Registration went great. We were in the shade and it was fun to see the faces of everyone we will be spending the next two weeks with”

When asked how she felt about giving her interview while inverted on the aerial silks she responded, “That’s just how we do it at the Aerials Site.”

Brook, 13, Indigo: learned Mill’s Mess (see: advanced juggling trick) during session break.

Oscar, 12, Indigo, on the bus: “Nice to experience talking to people, you know, socializing.” He was disappointed that there was no live band on the bus, or even just a guy with a guitar. On orientation: “Educational indeed. I’ve been here before of course.” Favorite part of Camp so far was song circle. “Finally!”

Rose Moylan, Art Instructor: “The bird prophecy is being realized. It’s the year of the bird, Session B—ird. I’ve seen lots of avian activity.”

Lilah, 10, Gold said, “The pizza was good. You gotta get a corner piece; it’s all about a corner piece.”

Rose, Camila, and Eva, triplets in Maroon Tipi, from Ireland, first time in the US: “So far American camp has been hot and exciting.” They plan to study stilts and juggling tomorrow.

Lime Tipi pizza report: Phoenix, 9, ate five slices. Cosmos, 9, ate five slices. Willow, 7, ate nine slices. Wesley, 8, ate nine slices.

It’s Wesley’s first time at Camp but is family and/or friends of the “Gravy Gravy.” The most surprising thing so far was a metallic bug. “It was landing and eating bacteria and moss on a tree. It was about dime-sized.”

BACK TO ARCHIVE

Silliness Abounds!

Monday, July 1st, 2024

STILT FIELD circa 9:30pm—The atmosphere has finally cooled to a temperature ideal for humans and mosquitos alike. Though most of the sky has darkened to a rich navy, the western horizon beams with the pale cerulean, cutting a jagged silhouette of the neighboring ridge. Crickets and frogs hum their respective mantras with an unwavering persistence, unbothered by the boom of the Rainbow Stage’s PA system. Here from the Stilt Field I have a cross-section view of the outdoor venue where sit some 200-odd campers and staff. Even at this late hour the children bob and fidget with excitement for the new surroundings.

“Lime Tipi to the stage!” announces Clowning Instructor Riley Soloner from his emcee’s seat far stage left.

All at once a dozen campers leap from their seats, presumably those from the Lime Tipi. They quickly confer backstage before emerging to perform their tipi skit, where each member of the group introduces themselves to all of camp. It’s an opening activity we employ to become familiar with everyone’s names and faces, and for kids to experience the gravity of standing in the spotlight. The counselors are charged with the task of creating some sort of narrative play to thread the introductions together, and the results range from absurd to ridiculous.

Over here in the stilt field I’m joined by three campers who seem to have grown weary of sitting in the theater. It’s been a long day of registration and orientation, and we try to accommodate kids who need a break from the continuous barrage of circus stimulation. I also realize their escapism will dovetail nicely with my quest for opening day blog content.

“The silliest thing that happened today was I ran out of bug spray,” begins Shy’a, 11, of the Yellow Tipi, idly rocking side to side. “There was a bug on my face so I borrowed some bug spray from a friend. The bug left at first but then it came back, the same bug, and bit me on the same spot. It was a rollercoaster of emotions, but I killed it so I guess it’s even Steven.”

“I wanted to bring a bottle of Cholula hot sauce for the Cholula song!” exclaims Raven, referencing a parody song we sing at Breakfast Circle where the solitary lyric of the song “Tequila” is replaced by “Cholula”. “My mom wouldn’t let me because my dad loves it so much! I think I’m gonna take poetry tomorrow.”

“Because it’s my pajamas!” protests Scarlet, 10, of the Yellow Tipi in response to me asking why she is dressed like a spotted cheetah. “I’m excited to go to the creek and try on outfits from the clothes barn.”

Having satisfactorily gleaned silly information from the trio, I encourage them to return to the Theater. I, myself retreat to my internet-infused desk area. This will be my radio tower to the world of parents for the next two weeks. I hope you all enjoy reading along, and please feel free to write me with any frivolous questions or comments.

Stay hydrated!

—J. Payseno, Editor

BACK TO ARCHIVE

Fare Thee Well!

Saturday, June 29th, 2024

COSTUME BARN circa 3:00pm—An unseasonably temperate pick-up Saturday has been provided by some unexpected cloud cover. The muted pink madrone trunks trickle upward into the canopy, splaying their bright green and yellow leaves against the verdigris pines. Dry orange leaves cover the white tarp floor of the Costume Barn which is otherwise thoroughly tidy. Rows and rows of hanging racks, each packed full of colorful costumes, constitute a sort of technicolor hedge maze. From here campers can be seen in the Tipi Circle leading their grown-ups around. One such camper skips sideways, pointing and beckoning with their respective hands.

The first family arrives at the Costume Barn, led by their camper who presents the costumes to his visiting twin brother like a proud shopkeep.

“You can try on anything,” says Marcel, 9, of the Red Tipi to his brother Demian, who quickly busies himself with selecting the perfect outfit. A false start with red crab outfit gives way to a Matrix-worthy black leather duster and samurai sword combo. Mom agrees to don the eschewed crab garments and the family poses for a quick photo.

I sit down with Marcel for a quick interview.

“Don’t mind him,” he says of his brother who is fiercely holding the plastic sword blade to his neck in an unrequited dramatic display. “Improv was my favorite because you got to play silly acting games. We played this game where we had to jump in the middle and make up a song. It feels really exciting to show my family around, but also sad because we have to go.”

A group of Marcel’s friend arrive and they all disappear into the corridors of costumes.

“I love the tipis, very spacious,” says Marcel’s mom, Susannah. “I think it’s cool how you can see the stars out of the roof. And this costume barn is amazing!”

As more families stream in, I refer to my journal. Earlier today I spent some time gathering final thoughts from various campers and staff.

“I was unicycling like a hundred times,” said Lyric, 8, of the Green Tipi. “I went to the arts and crafts station three times! I made a puppet out of a black sock and a white mouth. I made it into a vampire key maker with fangs, a cape and a key on a necklace. I call him the Key Master.”

“There was a lot of little kids but it was low-key kinda good,” said Danica, 14 of the Rainbow Tipi. “As for counselors, Natalie is the best. Emma M. slays at art; she’s also the best. After a while camp becomes a home away from home, so be careful, you might get stuck in this place. I love it here. 4 out of 5 stars.”

“My tipi was really chill and vibey,” said Lyndin, 14, of the Flame Tipi. “Like everyone is really chill, nice and respectable.”

“My favorite things were dance and songwriting,” said Laila, 11, of the Gold Tipi. “One time when we were learning the choreography we all just stopped for no reason and we were all quiet for a second and then we all started laughing. It’s so different from other camps because it’s not about doing things ‘right’ but doing things your own way.”

“I like evening program because it’s always something different,” said Coral, 9, of the Yellow Tipi. “My favorite was either the teacher thing or the fire circle. Everybody is just super nice and it’s awesome that so many kids can experience this.”

“Probably the best session I’ve ever had, for reasons inexplicable, mysterious and magical,” said Puppeteering Instructor Milla Blackwelder. “The vulnerability we share—there’s a strength there. It’s undeniable.”

“Whether they’re watching, waiting back stage, or performing, everyone’s participating,” said Teen Staff Charlie of last night’s talent show, the Cabar-Nado. “When the clowns came shuffling onstage I was LOL-ing non-stop. Tornado is always a win.”

“The four farters did a beautiful rendition of “Happy Birthday” which made the crowd go wild,” said Stage Technician Zoë Takaki. “Backstage was crazy. There was lots of unicyclists and dancers preparing. Shout-out to the Teen Leaders Beatrix and Max and camper Danica for helping hold down the tech scene.”

“We trained a lot of beginners this session,” said Unicycle Instructor Arek Rein Jungwirth. “Some of them even learned to do partner pinwheels!”

“I enjoyed counseling in a gender inclusive tipi,” added Arek. “I’ve noticed the kids are more respectful and aware because they have to get along with different types of people.”

I asked Arek for an update on the Union, for which he serves as co-president.

“People noticed a difference in staffing levels,” he said. “The tipis were well staffed which meant less issues fell through the cracks. We worked with management during Set-Up to improve safety issues. There is a lot of optimism about the new director and the potential for Camp to grow.”

Thanks for reading along with me this session! Have a beautiful rest of your summer and as always,

Stay hydrated,

—J. Payseno, Editor

BACK TO ARCHIVE

Never a Dull Moment

Friday, June 28th, 2024

RAINBOW THEATER circa 10:00am—The heat of day patiently waits for our breakfast to digest as we sit in the Theater for the daily Morning Reading. Counselors walk quietly through the audience dolling out sunscreen or braiding hair. Wavy Gravy is our usual morning reader, though today he and his wife Jahanara are enjoying a well-earned weekend off in the Bay Area. Filling some very large clown shoes in Wavy’s place today is Juggling Instructor Jono Finger. He edifies the crowd with Wikipedia “this day in history” facts, notable birthdays and an ode by Pablo Neruda, “Ode to the Plate”. The Rainbow Theater is surrounded by a ring of 15 towering tipis, which themselves are dwarfed by a ring of massive oak trees. Bird and cricket song fills the sonic background.

“Does anybody know Jory John?” asks Jono of the crowd. A few hands go up, including my own.

“He used to go to Camp; he was a song leader,” explains Jono. “Now he’s a famous author, and he wrote this book.”

He holds up a copy of the 2017 children’s book Bad Seed.

“I’m gonna read it but I need your help. Every time I say ‘baaad seeeeed’, you all repeat it. Let’s try!”

“Baaaad seeeeeed,” jeers the crowd.

…

As Jono reads, I crack open my journal. Last night’s evening program was our Costume Dance Party, where all of camp raids the Costume Barn for crazy outfits and then storms the Big Top for an evening of dancing (For the uninitiated, the Big Top is a large roof with open walls that covers Camp’s carpeted acrobatics area). Earlier today during breakfast I met with several attendees to get a sense of how the function went this time around.

“We did a thing where we dressed up as cheerleaders and bros,” said Juniper, 13 of the U.V. Tipi. “But some of the real-life bros actually dressed up as cheerleaders, and vice versa! We all lost our voices because we were screaming too loud while dabbing.”

“I dressed up as Paul Revere, and Lucas and Darell were my horse,” said Clowning Instructor Adora Webb. “I had some number of lanterns between zero and three, and the British arrived by one of the four elements. People were vibing in the utmost.”

“I try to go for a mix of songs,” said Tech Honcho and last night’s DJ Momo Calfe-Smith. “I played some popular songs and some songs we’ve sang as Camp songs. We covered a wide range of genres, everything from industrial grind-core to literal whale sounds. It was a great first dance of the summer. Everyone had fun.”

“It’s funny how the kids run in and out of the Big Top for each song,” said Jono. “They played some stuff from the 80’s and all the kids evacuated, but the counselors going hard. Then they played some Taylor Swift and the kids all ran back in.”

“People were jumping up and down, dressing up and dancing with their friends,” said James, 10, of the Scarlet Tipi. “I dressed up as a banana. Only the Taylor Swift songs I hated. The rest was good or amazing. Everyone was not making fun of each other but actually complimenting each other’s costumes. Excellent, really, really fun.”

“The dance party was so lit,” said Teen Staff Eloise. “Lit like a candle.”

…

TIPI CIRCLE circa 7:30pm—The sunset is shooting lovely lasers horizontally across the Tipi Circle, dramatically illuminating people as the pass between tree shadows. Costumed campers are gathered in clumps preparing for their performances. Underneath a nearby bench a gopher pokes its head out from the soil periodically, capturing the adoration of passers by. Tonight is the famed Cabar-Nado (a combination of “cabaret” and “tornado”) which will include acts developed in classes over the week as well as acts of random camper talent.

The emcees for the evening are three versions of Wavy Gravy, pictured below. First, moving right to left, we have your classic hippy icon Wavy, then a literal personification of gravy, and finally the pre-hippy beatnik poet Hugh Nanton Romney (see: Wavy Gravy’s original name). The trio settles in stage right while eager first row campers await the blowing of the conch.

Two young puppeteers approach me brandishing their new creations.

“This is Reeses,” says Mika of the Orange Tipi. “He’s from the planet Candy Land.”

“Mine is called Starburst,” says Mia, also from Orange. “He’s also from Candy Land.”

“My least favorite thing about Camp is the stretching because it makes you have to wait longer to start classes,” divulges Mika. “All I want to do is classes! Classes, classes, classes. I might get tired with 100 classes, but 50 is definitely do-able.”

“I loved a lot of the classes,” agrees Mia. “I really liked stilts. A lot of people from my school are taller than me so it’s nice to be tall for a while. If you like circus, you should definitely come here.”

During the course of our meeting, the sun has been quietly replaced in prominence by a bright stage light. The conch rings out and we all scurry to find our seats in the Theater.

Stay hydrated,

—J. Payseno, Editor

BACK TO ARCHIVE

Afternoon Vibes

Thursday, June 27th, 2024

CHESS GROVE circa 3:00pm—The dusty Kia Sedona which serves as our trusty Lake Shuttle crunches to a gravelly stop in front of an unassuming picnic table underneath a large shade structure. There waits my opponent, the indefatigable Memo Gosnell, one-time crab fisherman in the Bering Sea and longtime Juggling and Chess Instructor at Camp Winnarainbow. I emerge from the shuttle still wet from the lake but ready for battle. An ominous breeze sweeps orange bayleaves across sun-blanched wood chips. The board is already set.

1. e4 b6 2. d4 Bb7 3. d5 e6 4. c4 Bc5

“Chess is a lifelong game; you can always find a better player,” says Memo pouring an old pitcher of coffee into an ice-filled cup. “I’ve been playing longer than you’ve been alive!”

In the early morning campers are welcome to hang out at the Camp Kitchen. Forever the early bird, Memo is always there to supervise and offer chess activities. He lines the long buffet table with tournament size sets for use in gameplay or for the solving of puzzles which campers and staff alike take great interest in. The two-odd hours following lunch is another important, if less well attended, Memo-provided chess time. This is the setting for our current engagement.

5. Nf3 f5 6. Bd3 Nf6 7. Nc3 O-O 8. O-O fxe4

“Afternoon chess occurs alongside the supervision job of Kitchen Watch,” explains Memo. “But the kitchen never moves no matter how much I stare it down!” he quips. “The main purpose is to stop any intruders who may try to enter through this side of Camp. I have the table angled so I have a clear view of the bridge.”

9. Nxe4 Nxe4 10. Bxe4 Qf6 11. Bg5 Qxb2 12. Be3 Bxe3

The Lake Shuttle passes by, a good indication that at least 20 minutes have elapsed since our game began. The afternoon heat, though less oppressive than yesterday, is still conjuring visions of sleepiness.

“Kitchen Watch reminds me of doing wheel watch on the crab boat,” Memo reminisces. “They’re both very important jobs that require a lot of coffee. The main difference is that this picnic table isn’t equipped with radar.”

13. fxe3 Na6 14. Bxh7+ Kxh7 15. Ng5+ Kg8 16. Qh5 Rxf1+

As we play various characters pass through the Chess Grove such as Clowning Instructor Riley Soloner and Program Manager Osayandé Kokayi. When pressed for comment Riley reported, “I haven’t regretted one second of hammock time.”

Now 3:45, the adjacent Art Grove has begun to populate with teachers and students for an afternoon class. This signifies the end of Kitchen Watch, though since I sacrificed my bishop on move 14, we decide to play on.

17. Rxf1 Qe5 18. Qf7+ Kh8 19. Qf8+ Rxf8 20. Rxf8#

The game concludes with a dramatic queen sacrifice leading to a back-rank checkmate. Memo and I have had a long, competitive chess rivalry at Camp. We are pretty evenly matched, though I was able to eke out a win this game. We shake hands and strike the pieces. I turn to Osayandé for a rundown of last night’s Fire Circle finale.

“I organized the drumming ensemble and led the fire safety team for the fire jugglers,” he explains. “Our fire juggling performances usually has a drumming aspect. It adds a dynamic that recorded music just can’t do. I’m trained in West African drumming traditions, so that’s the main type we do at Camp. The rhythm we played last night is called Lamba.”

“Our fire jugglers last night used all kinds of fiery instruments,” continues Osayandé. “We had torches, and people passing the torches to each other. We had two people spinning fire poi and flaming devil sticks. The big finale was Luigi’s ‘dragon staff,’ a twelve-headed spinning staff. That was rad. Everything went off without a hitch”

Glad to hear of the absence of hitches, and weary of the Chess Grove, I breeze over to the Art Grove to check in with some young artists. Bonnie Raitt’s “Angel From Montgomery” floats out of a nearby speaker.

“Right now I’m just making a collage,” says Naomi, 12, of the Blue Tipi. “The Art Grove is great because it has lots of the different vibes. It’s calm, crazy, and creative: the three ‘C’s.”

“The Art Grove is nice to go to for somewhere quiet,” says Dahlia, 10, of the Yellow Tipi. “Even when they’re playing music, it’s still very chill. I’m making a collage out of people’s heads; a brainstorm, if you will.”

Suddenly Unicycle Instructor Thea Lamers has appeared pushing a stroller with the precious cargo of baby Robbie.

“We’re on our 10th lap of Camp,” says Thea. “We’re trying to get in a second nap.”

I decide to continue on my own sleepy way down the road to Downtown Camp. There I encounter a whole different world of activity and commotion. Stilt class is in full swing, unicycles are rolling around the Uni Track, and, like usual, juggling equipment is flying in every direction.

I zero in on Juggling Instructor Jono Finger who is positioned in a camping chair between the Aerials Site and the Improv Grove. Resting on his knees is a lap steel guitar which he plays expertly with a slide and metal finger picks. Two campers dance nearby, who I ask for some closing comments.

“The music was music-ing and therefore we were grooving,” says Mini, 10, of the Orange Tipi.

“We’re related!” exclaims Goldie, 9, also from Orange.

“I went to the creek and went on a creek walk,” she continues “There weren’t any animals except water spiders and a big rock.”

“I murdered a few cherries and like two goldfish,” adds Mini. “I let Goldie wear my sunglasses and she fell over like our Grandma in the canoe.”

“We were canoeing on the Russian River like four days ago, and a branch knocked off her hat!” recalls Goldie. “She was okay but it was really funny.”

“Oh look, baby quails!” shouts Mini.

And suddenly the interview is over.

Stay hydrated,

—J. Payseno

BACK TO ARCHIVE

Views and Reviews

Wednesday, June 26th, 2024

LAKE VERONICA circa 3:00pm—The road to Lake Veronica begins near the Camp office, cuts across a cow pasture, and winds up the hill past downtown Hogville (see: Hog Farm Commune). Rounding a corner the lake is suddenly visible through an opening of cattails. My ultimate destination lies on the opposite side where I can faintly make out a throng of other lake-goers. I continue along the gravely easement, taking note of the blackberry progress. Still a few more weeks.

The path terminates triumphantly on a hillside overlooking the lakefront shoreline. A picnic table and a large shade structure serve as the dry land focal point. Waterlogged campers scurry around it with awkward strides; the tough grass demands careful footsteps. I commit my belongings to a wooden cubby and descend the stairs into the chilly water. I duck under the buoyed rope which marks the edge of the shallow end and push out into the sparkling void.

A corridor of lily pads ushers me towards the lake’s center where floats a small wooden raft. Campers clamber on to the raft and jump off in a continuous stream of activity while Lifeguard Shakon stoically looks on, his whistle and buoy ready to be deployed at any moment. The raft canters each time a someone jumps off, causing Shakon and the others standing on the raft to sway in unison. I veer to the right out of the way of swimmer traffic to float on my pool noodle and admire the scenery. The sun is uninhibited from its high angle, causing the shoreline flora to shimmer blazing green.

After a few tranquil minutes I paddle back to land and dry off at the aforementioned picnic table. An afternoon snack of graham crackers and fruit has since been dropped off during my dip, and campers now line up to get their paper cupfuls. I crack open my journal to review my blog notes. Earlier today I spent some time gathering camper reviews of last night’s program, Teacher Talent Night, wherein counselors vie for popularity by performing dazzling feats of circus skill. The campers this session responded very positively to the event, as evidenced by the 4.9 out of 5 star average.

“It’s hard for aerials to not be my favorite,” said Hana, 13, of Ultra Violet Tipi. “The routines are so impressive and they have so much skill.”

“I’ve never respected clowning before; I thought it was just people running around being stupid,” continued Hana. “But the clowns were so skilled! When they were pretending to sing while slowly letting air out of balloons, I was laughing out loud—a newfound appreciation. 4.9 out of 5 stars.”

“I think improv is really impressive,” said Cali, 13, also from Ultra Violet. “The ability to think of something, it’s investing. There was this one part where someone received a ‘Tickle-Me-My-Little-Pony’ toy as a present, and when they tickled it, it whimpered ‘Help me’ like it was a trapped soul.”

“I think the dance act was really cool,” continued Cali. “The choreography fit the music perfectly. I don’t know the song, something about emotions. Very vivid and upbeat. 5 out of 5 stars.”

“I really liked the acrobatics act,” said Maya, 11, of the Gold Tipi. “First there was ‘acro-rats’, then ‘acro-cats’ and finally acro-bats! They all made a human tower and I thought they might fall over a little bit but I wasn’t scared. 5 out of 5 stars. Very spectacular. Would recommend.”

“I really liked the juggling,” said Cora, 9, of the Yellow Tipi. “There was glow-in-the-dark juggling pins for the finale and I think they even were throwing under-the-leg throws. Two of them were throwing pins to each other with another guy standing in the middle and they didn’t hit him! They were perfectly in sync with each other. They probably had to practice a long time. 5.5 stars out of 5. Super cool!”

“The tightrope act, they were really good,” said Viva, 9, of the Orange Tipi. “They did all these tricks on that tiny string! They did it on one leg, they did it backwards, and if they fell, they just tried again. The costumes were colorful and fun. I think I will definitely try it today. 5 out of 5 stars.”

“Stilts was funny and well planned-out,” said Poppy, 12, of the Blue Tipi. “They did a fashion show and it was so goofy that it was suave. They were very confident in their stilt walking. I’ve tried it before so I can appreciate the skill that goes in to it. 5 out of 5 stars.”

“Unicycles was really cool,” said Danika, 9, of the Sky Blue Tipi. “It seems pretty hard. I liked when they all held on to a juggling ring and went around in a circle. Also when they rode at each other in opposite directions, it looked like they were gonna crash but they didn’t. 5 out of 5 stars.

“The puppets were very silly,” said Natalina, 8, of the Lime Tipi. “They were lip-syncing a song and the main puppet had a long tongue hanging out. Some of the puppets were wagging their heads. It reminded me of when I was a little kid, like when I was 4. I was silly back then, but I’m even sillier now. That’s why I like puppets.”

“The songwriting act sounded like a real song!” said Emma, 8, also from Lime. “It sounded like a song that was made a long time ago. I’m gonna say it sounded like ‘I’m sorry, but I’m not sorry’. It was happy and sad. Made me feel warm inside.”

“I enjoyed the chaos that was controlled yet hectic,” said Sebastian, 13, of the Flame Tipi. “It’s a metaphor for Camp in general.”

Stay hydrated,

—J. Payseno, Editor

BACK TO ARCHIVE

From Dawn To Dusk

Tuesday, June 25th, 2024

CAMP KITCHEN circa 6:30am—A stern morning chill accompanies the diffuse glow of the Long Valley fog. Despite the low temperature roughly two dozen bed-headed children have lined up outside the Camp Kitchen in eager anticipation of 7:00am cocoa service. Another dozen or so can be seen scurrying up the road from the Tipi Circle to join the line. This is a daily ritual whose observers typically dwindle in number as the session wears on.

Several of us early bird counselors have positioned ourselves strategically around the area in an effort to keep the excitement to a tolerable decibel. Head chef Mary Jane, amused by our efforts, flicks on her boom box and encourages the campers to sing along.

“LET’S GET DOWN TO BUSINESS…”

Immediately the campers begin singing along while striking power poses.

“…TO DEFEAT THE HUNS”

Amidst the formidable Disney energy, I identify two campers near the front of the line as willing interview subjects.

“I haven’t done a lot yet; it’s my first time at Camp,” says Ione, 10, of the Indigo Tipi. “I’m excited to do silks. Also stilts and unicycles.”

“I’m showing her around,” proclaims the adjacent Juliet, 10, also from Indigo. “I have taken every class here and I can tell you what to do. First of all, for aerials, don’t wear baggy clothes. For unicycle, you just gotta feel it out. And the lake, it’s not full of leeches. That’s a rumor and it’s not true!”

At this juncture, Dance Instructor Karma Engel has finally arrived to administer cups of cocoa and the optional topping of miniature marshmallows. The frenetic excitement of the crowd is rekindled as the line begins to move. Counselors intervene like bouncers in a pajama mosh pit.

Moving down the line I encounter an intimidating cadre of Red Tipi members.

“Why did the toilet paper cross the road? Because it got stuck in the crack!” exclaims Quinn, 9.

“I’m excited to try unicycle because it looks like a bike,” says Rory, 8.

“Life is short, so love otters,” adds Marcel, 9. “I love otters. They’re super cute.”

“Riley was funny,” recalls Teo, 10. “Everything about him: his hair, his jokes, and his little kazoo. I was here two years ago and I’m glad to be back.”

I decide to retreat to the relative serenity of the central kitchen where moss-covered bay tree trunks rise up crookedly amid a flotilla of dark wooden picnic tables. There I encounter one Fela, 10, of the Orange Tipi.

“I’m a shark,” she asserts. “I have a shark onesie and I dance in the afternoon. I’m a dancing shark.”

Suddenly our new Director Ginger Jackson-Gleich has appeared on the kitchen scene, toting her 18-month-old son Robbie on her side. I solicit her for an official statement.

“Arrival day went really well,” she reports of Monday. “It was great to see lots of new and returning kids”

Ginger first attended Camp as a camper in the 90’s. She went on to work as a counselor and supervisor around the turn of the century.

“I took a break to become a civil rights lawyer and a mom,” she explains. “It’s so vibey to be back; it feels like no time has passed since I left. The magic is alive and well.”

…

TIPI CIRCLE circa 7:30pm—High, dappled cloud cover is finally providing relief from the afternoon’s heavy sunbeams. All around downtown Camp teachers are gathered in specialized assemblies, preparing acts for tonight’s show, Teacher Talent Night. The campers are hardly distracted by these rehearsals as they go about the energetic play of post-dinner free time (see: Witching Hour). Juggling equipment flies while costumes parade in unpredictable patterns. Spontaneous outbursts of astonish and laughter mingle with an ambient boombox.

Sitting in a comfy camping chair between Orange and Gold Tipi I resolve to record the reports of any passers-by.

“I got my shoes wet at the creek skipping rocks with Natalie,” admits Ocean, 10, of the Red Tipi. “I got a five-skipper! Then I played some random guitar chords.”

“I got re-electrified!” boasts Muffin, 15, of the Purple Tipi. “It’s a stilts term. It’s like graduating from short stilts. Now I can walk on talls!”

“Improv was amazing; it’s super fun and inclusive,” says Rhett, 10, of the Gold Tipi. “We do a bunch of games and your imagination just takes over. I turned into a grandma and I told my grandchild ‘You’re one millimeter taller than when I last saw you!'”

“I’m excited for Christmas even though Santa isn’t real,” says River, 7, of the Lime Tipi, sporting a furry Santa cap.

“This is a unicycle,” explains Benny, 7, of the Green Tipi, showing off his shiny ride. “It’s like a bike but with one wheel. You mount it by putting your foot here and then you jump forward and start riding.”

“I was mis-aged as 46 and mis-heighted as 3-foot 2,” complains Song Leader Natalie Garms, who indeed is 23 years-old and 5-foot 5. “You can’t get a second of peace with these cutthroat kids.”

“We started teaching ‘Dreams’ by the Cranberries to the campers today,” continues Natalie. “I feel the alt-pop vibes of an Irish revolution resonating in their precious little voices.”

The conch shell peals a long, low tone, signifying the transition from free-time to showtime. Look to tomorrow’s entry for a full review of Teacher Talent Night.

Stay hydrated,

—J. Payseno, Editor

BACK TO ARCHIVE

Summer Begins!

Monday, June 24th, 2024

Welcome to the Camp Winnarainbow Blog! Check in here for daily updates on all our summer camp shenanigans, from what songs we’re singing to what we had for breakfast. Also keep your eye out for a link to our Session A photo album which will be sent out in the next day or so.

RAINBOW STAGE circa 9:00pm—A lovely blanket of periwinkle coolness has enveloped the Black Oak Ranch as children and staff begin to gather in the artificial light of the Rainbow Stage like so many moths. The excitement of arrival has been multiplied by a delicious pizza dinner. Children chat and giggle in wild disarray as staff attempt to get everyone seated and settled in the outdoor venue. The bustle of Registration Day has given way to the bustle of our pedestrian circus life, and now begins the first act of the whole summer: Session ‘A’ Tipi Skit Night.

For the uninitiated, campers at Camp Winnarainbow shelter in beautiful tipi structures. Each of these tipis is named after a different color of the rainbow.

The event has begun with Clowning Instructor Riley Soloner explaining some key facets of audience etiquette to the campers. Over the next 80 minutes or so, each tipi group of campers will take the stage to perform an impromptu skit. It’s a festive way for everyone to be introduced to each other and to the magic of the stage. I’m taking the opportunity to gather day-one quotations from various counselors around the audience periphery.

“I’m enjoying the tipi signs,” reported Camper Advocate Lexi Takaki. “They’re very large and innovative.”

Every session counselors paint cardboard signs to distinguish the tipis from one another.

“I was working the registration table up by the kitchen today and it’s helpful for campers when I send them to downtown Camp to be able to find their tipi,” continued Takaki. “Counselors like to put their own twist on the tipi names. Take U.V. Tipi, short for Ultra Violet; the counselors decided to call it ‘S.U.V. Tipi’. Very clever.”

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO YOUUU…

As we chat the crowd has erupted into a spontaneous birthday song for one of the staff members. Soloner from his emcee’s perch is playing along on his kazoo. I slip away from the stage area which has become too raucous for any sensible semblance of journalism.

Crossing the Tipi Circle I encounter two fire builders in search of small twigs, Shakon and Vashaun. Their chosen implements for completing this task are a large yellow wheel barrow and two light-up juggling clubs. I ask if they have any informative take-aways from the first six hours of our Winnarainbow summer.

“When life gives you oranges,” begins Shakon.

“Make lemonade!” interjects Vashaun.

Satisfied with their assessment of the situation, I continue on.

Stay hydrated,

—J. Payseno, Editor

PS: For our opening circle we sang “If I Had a Hammer” by Pete Seeger and “Blackbird” by the Beatles.

BACK TO ARCHIVE