2003 Daily Journal

Date (click links to go to full entries)	Super Camper	Inspection Winner	Best Bed	Notes
Sunday, June 29				Opening day 2003
Monday, June 30	Romain Liblau	Pete's Palace	Andrew Clemence	First full day of activities
Tuesday, July 1	Will Potter	Buzzard's Roost	Matt Clifford and Joe Rood
Wednesday, July 2	Alex McLaughlin	Owl's Perch	Chris Cogswell
Thursday, July 3	Danny Gleason	Cabin 4	Cole Schlect
Friday, July 4	Matt Carson	Owl's Perch	Matt Clifford
Saturday, July 5	Zach Lynn	Cabin 1	Tom Carson
Sunday, July 6	Andrew Bowden	Owl's Perch	Owen Knights
Monday, July 7	Bowen Tretheway	Pete's Palace	Jake Huston
Tuesday, July 8	Will Alexander	Cabin 2	Patrick Bowden
Wednesday, July 9	Arthur Hockmuth	Buzzard's	Andrew Clemence
Thursday, July 10	Wyatt Cartwright	Hilton B	Sam Deeran
Friday, July 11	William LeBlond	Cabin 4	Chris Cogswell
Saturday, July 12	Xavier Oller	Owl's Perch	Alasdair Thornton
Sunday, July 13	Ted Cunningham	Pete's Palace	Jake Huston
Monday, July 14	Javi Heinsen	Cabin 3	Noah Aronson
Tuesday, July 15	Chris Huston	Cabin 3	Wyatt Cartwright
Wednesday, July 16	Owen Knights	Pete's Palace	Matt Clifford
Thursday, July 17	Alasdair Thornton	Cabin 8	Chris Cogswell
Friday, July 18	Joe Rood	Owl's Perch	Andrew Clemence
Saturday, July 19				No inspection winners or super camper recorded
Sunday, July 20	Matt Clifford	Pete's Palace	Ryan McElroen
Monday, July 21	Ross Sherman	Hilton	Romain Liblau
Tuesday, July 22				Last full day of first session
Wednesday, July 23				Turnover day
Thursday, July 24				First day of 2nd session
Friday, July 25	Luis Prida	Hilton B	Chris Rios
Saturday, July 26	Ryan McElroen	Eagles Nest	Ryan McElroen
Sunday, July 27	Charles Netzer	Eagle's Nest	Ryan Scheyer
Monday, July 28	Peter Mumford	Eagles Nest	Matt Clifford
Tuesday, July 29	Raphael DeFonscolombe	Cabin 3	Chris Cogswell
Wednesday, July 30	Willy Taft	Cabin 2	Chris Neilson
Thursday, July 31	Charlie Knights	Owl's Perch	Scott Loren
Friday, August 1	Henry Rounds	Hilton A	Matt Clifford
Saturday, August 2	Robert Donahue	Cabin 7	Matt Clifford
Sunday, August 3	Zach Press	Cabin 7	Robert Donahue
Monday, August 4	David Kane	Cabin 5	Christopher Cogswell
Tuesday, August 5	Artem Kutikov and Dan Letovsky	Hilton B	Alasdair Thornton
Wednesday, August 6	Willy Taft	Owl's Perch	Henry Rounds
Thursday, August 7	Dylan Laycox	Cabin 2	Pat Huycke
Friday, August 8	Grant Carlson	Cabin 1	Sam Deeran
Saturday, August 9	Kye Kazanjian-Amory	Eagles Nest	Sether Hanson
Sunday, August 10				No entry
Monday, August 11				No entry
Tuesday, August 12	Owen Footer	Cabin 4	Christopher Cogswell
Wednesday, August 13	Charlie Silverstein			Beach Day
Thursday, August 14				Last day of activities

Sunday, June 29th Opening Day!

Opening day of the 2003 season at Birch Rock Camp! Campers and their families starting rolling down the hill at 8:30am, and by lunch almost everyone had arrived. The weather was beautiful, and lunch, as always, was delicious. By 2:30 we were all up on the hill to watch the last cars drive away and to get down to some serious 'New Games'. After we had learned everyone's name and played some "Prui' and 'Blob' we headed down the hill for a quick dip in the lake. After dinner we all headed down to the Birch Rock for more formal introductions to the Rock, and each other. Early to bed, and early to rise; we'll see you tomorrow!

Monday, June 30th

This morning we were greeted by a quick rain shower, but since it was our first day of activities, we went ahead with the regular schedule. By 9am the sun was shining again, and campers and staff alike spread throughout camp for a full day of play and learning on the hill and in the lake.

After three square meals, a full day of strenuous activities, and an intense game of 'Quorum' on the hill-top after dinner, we were all ready to 'hit the hay'. We'll see you tomorrow!

Super Camper: Romain Liblau- for his willingness and enthusiasm as a waiter at breakfast and dinner, and at set-up for lunch.

Best Bed: Andrew Clemence

Cleanest Cabin: Pete's Palace

Tuesday, July 1st

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Today was a beautiful day on Lake McWain. The sun was shining with a light breeze from the West. Many of our campers were down at campcraft earning their knife rights, so they can use a knife safely on campus. We also completed all of our tests for instructional swim with campers dividing into proper swim groups.

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With the wind gusting up in the afternoon, many campers were sailing across our lovely lake and sometimes capsizing. Sailing Instructor Erik Joelsson decided this would be a great time to teach the kids capsizing and recovery techniques.

In the evening, Ryan Massey taught the camp a new game he invented called "Geronimo". It's a lot like capture-the-flag but with a number of twists.

Super Camper: Will Potter- for his positive attitude at Lacrosse, receiving his knife rights and being an all around great guy.

Best Beds: Matt Clifford and Joe Rood

Cleanest Cabin: Buzzards Roost

Wednesday, July 2nd

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Another gorgeous day at the Rock. With the boys playing on the field and at the waterfront the campus was alive with positive energy. The kids were all smiles today on the second full day of activities and many are working hard towards badges. Soccer and archery badges were awarded to a few of the campers, and some campers earned parts of sailing and canoeing badges.

It was pizza night tonight for dinner with kids stuffing themselves with three or four slices each. Evening activity tonight is "Orb", also a camp favorite.

Super Camper: Alex McLaughlin- for great energy at Art and a willingness to help clean up afterwards.

Best Beds: Chris Cogswell

Cleanest Cabin: Owls Perch

Thursday, July 3rd

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The beautiful sunny days just keep on coming. After a scattered shower this morning the sky opened right up and became sunny. The Eagles Nest group returned from the Carlo Col loop trip. They had a great time hiking and hanging out together in the woods. They were also very excited to get back to Randy's delicious meals.

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The afternoon was broken up a little bit by Head Counselor CJ Nesher because the Upper Camp guys needed to take showers to prepare themselves for the evening. Prepare themselves for what you ask? The Arcadia Garden Party, a dance at an all girls camp in Casco, ME. Every season our Upper Camp guys go to the Garden Party and show the women what it means to be gentlemen. With at least two or three other boys camps there, the boys of Birch Rock represent. We're the only boys camp group that shows up in uniform and makes sure that every boy dances with a girl. The guys always come back full of smiles.

The Lower Camp guys watched a Disney classic called Iron Will. It's a true story of a 17 year old American boy who wins a dog sled race across Canada and into the U.S. The action is exciting and the ending will leave a lump in your throat. It's a great film!

Super Camper: Danny Gleason, for his terrific attitude on the trip

Best Bed: Cole Schlecht

Cleanest Cabin: Cabin 4

Friday, July 4th

Happy Birthday America! BRC celebrated the Fourth in style, marching in Waterford's down-town parade, and picnicking in the 'Old-Grove' for lunch. After lunch we split the whole group into two teams, and spent the afternoon in our inaugural game of 'Cross Camp Capture the Flag'. Despite the 100 degree temperatures and high humidity, the game was fast paced, intense, and ended in a one-all tie. Once a truce was reached, we all headed down to the water front for a nice cool swim in the lake.

After a delicious fish dinner from Randy's kitchen, we all headed up to the hill-top for some split-camp 'Orb' and a gorgeous sun set. Once darkness had the hill-top, and the moon was riding across the Maine sky, we picked our way down to the hill below the lodge to watch the fire-works. Doug and Ryan put on a great show, Cajun style, and were rewarded with a hearty cheer and a rousing rendition of "Let's Hit the Hay" as we all headed to bed. We'll see you tomorrow!

Super Camper: Matt Carson- for his ever present enthusiasm and smile!

Best Bed: Matt Clifford

Cleanest Cabin: Owls Perch

Saturday, July 5th

This morning dawned over-cast and cool, but by the end of breakfast it was clear, humid, and hot hot hot! The whole camp jumped enthusiastically into our last day of activities for the week, highlighted by the Ducks of Zach Lynn, Romain LiBlau, Max Houssin, and Sam Whittemore.

During lunch the thunder clouds started rolling in, and by the beginning of third period we were all indoors as the rain fell heavily and the thunder pounded over the lake. The rainy weather gave everyone a much needed break from the hectic pace of this first week, and we all relaxed at the BRC Cinema. The older boys watched "Remember the Titans", while the youngsters saw "Who Framed Roger Rabbit". The sun was back out once the movies ended, and we all headed down to the water front for a quick dip before dinner.

Super Camper: Zack Lynn - for swimming his duck and then sharing the spotlight with a fellow swimmer

Best Bed: Tom Carson

Inspection: Cabin 1

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Franks and beans, as usual on Saturday night, and the season's first 'Camp Fire'. After Camp Fire we held a bonfire pep-rally in preparation for tomorrow's eagerly anticipated game of 'Geronimo'. The pep-rally involved the whole staff, face painted and playing the drums and dancing around a huge bonfire. We announced tomorrow's teams, and threw out some loud chants for the campers. Then we all headed to bed in preparation for tomorrow's game. We'll see you tomorrow!

Sunday, July 6th

We awoke at 8:00 this morning (a nice late wake-up) to another hot humid day. The community prepared for the modified Sunday schedule by sharing eggs and fruit in the morning and participating in an extended cleanup. Letter writing followed even as the campers were paraded through the shower room by barons Nordblom and Lee. Letter writing topics included the camp dogs, the 4th of July festivities, and campfire. Randy served up an outstanding Sunday dinner of Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and green beans (Thanksgiving Style!)

Geronimo, Geronimo, GERONIMO. Our new full camp game followed lunch as the afternoon activity and was played cross-camp for the first time. Warriors, Shamans, and Chiefs battled valiantly to a near draw and the game continues to be very popular with the campers. The tribes look forward to clashing again very soon. After dinner, the community gathered down at the Birch Rock for our weekly Tree Talk lead by Josh Pincus. The topic was community, and as always the campers were not afraid to speak up and share their thoughts and opinions. Quiet reflection and silent reading in the cabins closed out a fabulous first week at the Rock.

Super Camper: Andrew Bowden - for great table manners and a consistently positive attitude

Best Bed: Owen Knights

Inspection: Owls Perch

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Monday, July 7th

Another beautiful day on the hills overlooking Lake McWain, and we were back to a full day of regular activities. Not only did we push ahead with badge work and long distance swims, but the trip department also swung into high gear with the departure of cabins 3 and 4 for three days in the Mahoosic Range, and 'trip-prep' for cabins 7 and 8, and Pete's Palace.

This afternoon's activities were threatened by a developing storm front, but we managed to squeeze two activity periods and a general swim in before any rain fell. Will Brewster, Walt Roland, Matt Guttman, and Danny Gleason all swam their ducks, putting the afternoon's time to good use. After a quick shower during our delicious beef and sweet potato dinner, we headed up to the hill top where Lower Camp played a heated game of "Smash" (baseball with tennis equipment) and Upper Camp played to an even score in Ultimate Frisbee. We were ushered down the hill, put to bed, and serenaded to sleep by the next incoming wave of rain; we'll see you tomorrow!

Super Camper: Bowen Tretheway- for his leadership and encouragement of others at swimming

Best Bed: Jake Huston

Cleanest Cabin: Pete's Palace

Tuesday, July 8th

With three trips out, the camp was a lot smaller today. Cabins 3, 4, 7, 8 and Pete's are all out on three different adventures. Meanwhile back at camp, we had two Loons, (Chelton Martin and Pat Bowden) and four Ducks. The Ducks and Loons are long distance swims across the width of the lake. These are important awards for our campers to achieve, and we are proud of these great accomplishments.

In the evening, we had our Cabin Night. The kids break into groups by cabin and cook hotdogs and s'mores over an open fire. A good time was had by all.

Super Camper: Will Alexander, for his enthusiasm and willingness to try new things

Best Bed: Patrick Bowden

Cleanest Cabin: Cabin 2

Wednesday, July 9th

We were a small camp again today, but that suits us just fine. A cloudy morning gave way to afternoon sunshine and activities rolled along. Badge parts were awarded in bunches, as counselors and campers alike participated in rigorous physical conditioning on the hill. Javi Heinsen and Will Potter earned their Junior Lacrosse badges (the "Williams")

Ravioli and Capture the Flag were the order of the night, and the game was heated as always. The sunset on the hill put us all in great spirits and we look forward to another fabulous day tomorrow.

Super Camper: Arthur Hockmuth - for great attitude in swimming and leading by example

Cleanest Cabin: Buzzards

Best Bed: Andrew Clemence

Thursday, July 10th

Another day of wonderful weather today! We woke up to a morning chilly enough for a fire in the lodge fire place and hot chocolate with breakfast, but by first period we were back to shorts and t-shirts. We rolled through another full day of activities, highlighted by the morning Loon of Henry Rounds, and some great sailing on a brisk afternoon wind. While most of us were busy having fun and trying to earn badges, cabins 7 and 8 returned with trip leader Doug Miller from their epic three day adventure in the Bigelow Preserve.

After a delicious pizza dinner, we headed up to the hill top for the season's first game of 'Speed Ball'. The conclusion of the game saw yet another beautiful sun set ushering us down the hill to bed. We'll see you tomorrow.

Super Camper: Wyatt Cartwright- for his ability to 'go further' in today's basketball conditioning drills

Cleanest Cabin: Hilton B

Best Bed: Sam Deeran

Friday, July 11th

Today we woke up with a storm cloud raining on us, but here at Birch Rock we pay no attention to the rain. After lighting a fire in the lodge and enjoying french toast with some delicious hot chocolate, we modified our schedule to rainy day activities and got rolling as usual. Some of the activities included: lodge bowling, silent reading, card games, cooking with Randy, and wee blocks (wooden domino shaped blocks).

Shortly before our grilled cheese and tomato soup lunch, Cabins 5 and 6 returned with their trip leader Aaron Kolbow from their wet adventure on the Mahoosic Range. The days activities ended with a hearty game of bingo.

Dinner was a delicious fish meal with corn on the cob and baked potatoes followed by fantastic white chocolate brownies that were made by Harry Netzer, Brad Page, and Tuck Richardson. In the middle of dinner we were greeted by the return of Pete's Palace from their perilous trip on the Moose River.

After dinner we had a rainy day evening activity of movie watching. Lower Camp thoroughly enjoyed Spies Like Us, while Upper Camp watched Sneakers.

Super Camper: William LeBlond for his outstanding attitude all day.

Cleanest Cabin: Cabin 4

Best Bed Chris Cogswell

Saturday, July 12th

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Today was a chilly morning with cloudy skies, but NO rain. It was a regular day of activities and everything was running at full swing. Anywhere you went in camp there was something going on. The boys were working hard towards their badges today.

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Campfire tonight was once again a great success. The boys did an excellent job on stage acting out their wacky parts and getting into character. It was a great night!

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Super Camper: Xavier Oller, for his great attitude and terrific smile

Best Bed: Alasdair Thornton

Cleanest Cabin: Owls Perch

Sunday, July 13th

Today was Parent Visitation day for the first session. In the morning the campers wrote letters home and took showers and by 10 am the parents started to arrive. Head Cook Randy Bowden cooked up a delicious turkey dinner with potatoes, stuffing, and salad on the side.

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We had our annual Field Olympics in the afternoon with a White Team victory. In the evening it was time for Tree Talk. We talked about community and communication. Mike Wilson told our story about Johnny Neverender and Wicked Willie. It's a tale about "Warm Fuzzies" and "Cold Pricklies" or compliments and insults. After the story we gave the campers about 35 minutes to write Warm Fuzzies to anyone in camp. The boys walked around handing little notes with compliments on them to each other.

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Super Camper: Ted Cunningham, for a great attitude and being helpful to fellow campers

Best Bed: Jake Huston

Cleanest Cabin: Pete's Palace

Monday, July 14th

The morning was a regular activity morning with focus on badge parts. After lunch everyone went up on the field for a full camp 5 on 5 soccer tournament. Counselors David Nesher and Josh Pincus spent a lot of time carefully planning the tournament to keep the kids active all afternoon. The campers were divided into teams and six small soccer fields were set up across the camp's Upper Field. Mirroring the outside world, the overall champion was Brazil. Charlie Knights was selected as tournament MVP, as a result of his multitude of goals and assists. The evening activity of quorum rounded out the day.

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Super Camper: Javi Heinsen, for positive attitude and teaching soccer to some of the other campers.

Best Bed: Noah Aronson

Cleanest Cabin: Cabin 3

Tuesday, July 15th

Tuesday began cool and ended hot, a perfect summer day in the woods of Maine. Regular activities rolled all day as counselors encouraged campers and awarded badge parts in bundles. It was a busy day on the water as well with Ryan Cox, Sam Cleaves, Andrew Koines and Wyatt Cartwright completing their Loons and Tuck Richardson and Noah Aronson swimming their ducks. Dinner was replaced by Cabin Night, back by popular demand. Campers joined their cabin-mates and cooked hot dogs and smores over the campfire. Dinner was followed by evening activities chosen by the cabins.

Super Camper: Chris Huston - for enthusiasm in cheering his fellow campers during their swims

Best Bed: Wyatt Cartwright (for creativity)

Cleanest Cabin: Cabin 3

Wednesday, July 16th

We awoke to a light drizzle which developed into a steady rain as the day progressed. Campers were anxious about the soccer game against Winona being canceled, but word came down that we would play through the rain. The entire camp was on hand to witness a thrilling game which saw Birch Rock take an early 2-1 lead. Unfortunately, we were slightly outgunned by our rivals as Winona took the game convincingly. Danny Gleason and Michael Harper scored dramatic goals for the home team and the Owen Knights/Sam Cleaves goaltender combination made numerous impressive saves. It's all about positivity and sportsmanship here at the Rock and our team has both in bunches.

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Randy prepared an outstanding Chinese dinner complete with fortune cookies. The evening ended at the BRC Cinema where upper camp saw "Spider-Man" while lower camp enjoyed "The Iron Giant".

Super Camper: Owen Knights - for outstanding performance and sportsmanship during the soccer game

Cleanest Cabin: Pete's Palace

Best Bed: Matt Clifford (aka Bedmaster Matt)

Thursday, July 17th

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Today was a beautiful day. The weather was perfect with a gentle breeze. The campers spent the day working on badges and long distance swims. We had four long distance swims, two ducks (Harry Netzer and Steve Page) and two loons (Michael Harper and Owen Knights).

In the afternoon, ten of our gentlemen went with Doug Miller and Tom Clemence to Sunday River Mountain Biking Park for an afternoon of biking the downhill trails. The boys said they were able to really get the bikes flying. They definitely had a memorable trip.

We also had a visit from Gary Auerbach, a world class freestyle Frisbee champion. Gary taught all four activity groups Frisbee terms, skills, and proper throwing technique. Each group spent a period with him in preparation for our evening activity, Ultimate Frisbee.

Super Camper: Alasdair Thornton, for his efforts at the Frisbee course.

Best Bed: Chris Cogswell

Cleanest Cabin: Cabin 8

Friday, July 18th

Another beautiful morning at BRC! Although the forecast called for thunder storms and rain, we snuck a full morning of activities in before any weather arrived. Austin Cox swam the first Seal of the season, Pierce Madden and Cole Schlecht swam their Ducks, and Nate Mitchell swam his loon. Elsewhere in camp, Chelton Martin got his Jr. Mountain Biking badge, and Nick Martin earned his fire rights.

The thunder rolled in at lunch time, but we went ahead with our Counselor vs. Camper baseball game in the afternoon. The campers took an early 3-0 lead, but the staff managed to pull out a close win in the end. The camper MVP, Matt Guttman, flashed some quick leather in the field, and a powerful bat at the plate.

After a delicious Friday Fish dinner, we all headed up to the hill top for an evening game of Orb. Another great day at camp, we'll see you tomorrow!

Super Camper: Joe Rood, for organizing and running the afternoon baseball game.

Best Bed: Andrew Clemence

Cleanest Cabin: Owl's Perch

Saturday, July 19th

A regular day of activities with many long distance swims.

Campfire in the evening was a big hit. The staff did a Real World skit with Hulk, Dracula, the Canadian and Sensitive Guy. This team of four was sent on a mission to gather supplies for an eight year old's birthday party. The Hulk destroyed the birthday cake, the balloons and the pinata. Field Director Matt Downs did an excellent job as the Hulk.

Sunday, July 20th

Beautiful day with lots of sun shining through the tree tops. The campers had letter writing and showers in the morning. The shower barons did a sauna theme with candles and peaceful music.

For lunch we had a delicious ham, corn and mashed potatoes meal. The potatoes must have been great, because the camp ate 75 lbs. of potatoes at one meal.

In the evening, at Tree Talk, we talked about individuality and goal setting. The boys had a lot to say, and we all learned more about each other.

Super Camper: Matt Clifford, for always being polite and a great role model for the younger campers.

Best Bed: Ryan McElroen

Cleanest Cabin: Pete's Palace

Monday, July 21st

Sun in the morning and overcast and rainy in the afternoon. It looks like we're in for a rainy week. "Batten down the hatches."

Today was the last regular day of activities for our first session campers. Tonight, we have our awards ceremony, so we'll know which campers used their time well. We're sure to see many smiles tonight.

Super Camper: Ross Sherman, for outstanding attitude, quiet confidence and hardcore badge work.

Best Bed: Romain Liblau

Cleanest Cabin: Hilton

Tuesday, July 22nd

This morning the Maine Wilderness Adventure crew headed out to Runoia in preparation for their big adventure. We wish all 12 young women and men a fine journey.

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Today was the last full day for the first session campers. In the morning, the first session boys packed their stuff while the full season kids played games on the field. Later, in the afternoon, the boys played Geronimo up on the field.

That night we prepared for our Tent City. Every cabin in cabin was provided a tent or tarp and ropes, and they set up shelters all around the lodge area. After everything was setup, the first session campers said their goodbyes and threw their chips in the fire. Then we had party food in the lodge and music and singing in the grove area. It was a great final night celebration for our first session.

Wednesday, July 23rd Goodbye, First session

This morning our first session gang was picked up by their families, while the full season guys watched Star Wars: Attack of the Clones.

In the afternoon, the full season gang left for their big turnover trip. This is a journey to Bethel to visit Big Adventure for Laser tag and a climbing wall. They also have mini-golf and a waterslide, depending on whether the weather cooperates. In the meantime, back in camp, the rest of the staff and CITs are hard at work preparing for Opening Day of the second session crew tomorrow morning.

Thursday, July 24th Hello, Second Session

Opening Day for the Second Session! Our second session campers arrived excited and ready to go. By noon we had all of our campers and after a delicious meal served up by Head Cook Randy Bowden, we were off and running.

In the afternoon, after the parents said their goodbyes we had name games up on the field. When the games ended, Director Mike Mattson and Head Counselor CJ Nesher took all the new campers on a tour of the campus. This helps the new guys learn the names of the different buildings and the locations of the different activities. It also helps the new guys feel comfortable with the camp leadership.

In the evening, we had our introductions down at the Birch Rock. Each camper and staff member gets up in front of the group and introduces themselves and talks about the activities they are most interested in for the summer. Then it was bedtime for all.

Friday, July 25th

The day couldn't have been any better. It was a beautiful sunny 80 degree day with no humidity. We're talking perfect! The boys enjoyed their first full day of activities for the second session, and we had a few successes for the day.

In the afternoon, Christopher Cogswell swam his Loon in a terrific time and was all smiles for the rest of the day. He was also a star at soccer in the morning, blocking shots on goal (picture below). Joe Cohen, Sam Deeran and Pat Huycke helped a few of the staff plant a few more bushes around camp to help stabilize the slope of the hill and prevent erosion. Thanks to those three for their assistance.

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The new boys are settling quickly and are a sensational bunch of guys. It's going to be a great run to the finish.

Super Camper: Luis Prida, for his positive attitude and fast adjustment to camp.

Best Bed: Chris Rios

Cleanest Cabin: Hilton B

Saturday, July 26th

Today was a lovely but humid day. The new kids are getting much more settled, and we're seeing more and more smiles on their faces. The full season guys are still working hard on their badges with more parts of badges awarded today. Michael Harper got his junior soccer after an impressive performance at the soccer game and then a little extra time on the field.

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Tonight, after a delicious franks and beans dinner, it was time for a game of Orb. We normally have Campfire (our skit night) on Saturdays but decided to cancel this weeks in order to allow the new guys a little bit more time to settle in.

Super Camper: Ryan McElroen, for his willingness to offer help and react quickly with assistance when asked.

Best Bed: Ryan McElroen, the first Best Bed and Super Camper combo awarded in a long time.

Cleanest Cabin: Eagles Nest, this also happens to be Ryan McElroen's cabin. Good Job, Ryan!

Sunday, July 27th

We had a traditional Sunday morning with Letterwriting, Showers and Lodge Cleanup. The Shower Barons did a waterfront theme with PFDs, reaching poles, and lifeguards.

In the afternoon, we played our most popular game, Cross-camp Capture-the-Flag. The teams were well made so the two games we played took about an hour each. The boys had a blast and the few guys who were still fighting homesickness forgot all about home during those couple hours of play. It's amazing what one really fun game can do for a child.

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Sunday nights are reserved for Tree Talk. The whole community went down to the Birch Rock and discussed our three guiding principles, the camp motto, and the inscription over the camp's library. These five mottos are:

Guiding Principles: Lead By Example, Listen & Learn, Make It Happen

Motto: Help the Other Fellow

Library Sign: Look up, Laugh, Love and Lift.

The boys had a lot of great things to say about each motto and what they mean for us in camp and at home. This whole Tree Talk took about an hour with the boys listening to everything that was said by the group. It was terrific to hear the boys talk and watch them listen.

Super Camper: Charles Netzer, for his enthusiasm during Capture-the-Flag.

Best Bed: Ryan Scheyer

Cleanest Cabin: Eagles Nest

Monday, July 28th

What a great morning for sailing! It was a beautiful morning with a strong breeze blowing across the lake. The sailors were out in full force with their sails up and hair blowing in the wind.

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At campcraft, Counselor Mike Apicelli found a wounded bird on the ground which they then decided to rescue. Using his CPR training from the Wilderness First Responder course he took this spring, Counselor Ryan "Ryno" Massey performed modified CPR to revive the bird. Then Mike and Ryan taught the campers how to tend to the bird. They fed it small insects that they collected and then used a dropper to give it a drink. Director Mike Mattson came down with his bird books and identified the bird as a female black and white warbler. The boys decided to name her "Ms Lucky".

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In the afternoon, the boys played all the normal games and activities. The waterfront was extremely popular and a few young men enjoyed the sun and breeze on the field. They all worked on badge parts this afternoon. Evening Activity was Kickball for the younger campers and Speedball for the elders.

Super Camper: Peter Mumford - for positive attitude during tennis and always smiling

Best Bed: Bedmaster Matt Clifford

Cleanest Cabin: Eagles Nest (3 in a row - 3 cheers for the Nest!)

Tuesday, July 29th

If yesterday was sailing day, today was canoeing day as paddle sports and long distance swims ruled on dead-calm Lake McWain. Swimming their ducks were Peter Mumford, Robert David Weeks, and Raphael DeFonscolombe. Going one step further, BRC veteran Silas Peckham-Paul swam his loon. Many campers had the privilege of canoeing or rowing with longtime Birchrocker Dave Weeks who has joined our community for the week. In fact, later that evening Dave and Mike "Don Miguel" Apicelli took some of the new campers down by the lake for a night of storytelling and camping, an experience they won't soon forget. Many thanks to these two veterans for sharing their wisdom and good humor with us for the week!

We closed with ultimate frisbee on the hill, a great game to close the day without wind.

Supercamper: Raphael DeFonscolombe - for swimming his duck and maintaining a great attitude all around camp despite not having a firm grasp on the language

Best Bed: Chris Cogswell

Cleanest Cabin: Cabin 3

Wednesday, July 30th

In the early morning a few of the campers (Chris Rios & Ryan Scheyer) and a couple of our young staff and CITs went for a brisk polar bear swim to start the day. It was such a big hit that nearly half the camp lined up this evening to sign up for future early morning swims. At the same time Dave Weeks and Don Miquel woke up their crew of eight for a nice breakfast at Injun Joes by the lake. The boys that camped at had a memorable experience with two of BRC's best.

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Today was a great day of fun in the sun. The boys had a regular day of activities with 10 archery badges earned and a number of long distance swims. There were a couple of ducks (Henry Mumford & Grant Hailer) and a couple loons (Charles Netzer & Jack Coster) today. The water was perfect for swims across the lake.

We also had a couple trips go out today. This morning Eagle's Nest went out on a two night overnight hike on the Carter Dome trail, and this afternoon Buzzards Roost went on a two night overnight canoe trip on the Rangeley Lakes. The Rangelys is a camp favorite and were sure to here some great stories upon their return. Have a great time, gents!

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Supercamper: Willy Taft - for positive attitude and helping the other fellow in lacrosse

Best Bed: Chris Neilson

Cleanest Cabin: Cabin 2

Thursday, July 31st

Today was another amazing 80 degree day. The sun was shining and the humidity was at a reasonable level. It was a regular day of activities for most, but a few got something a little bit more special.

The first event of the morning was a BIG long distance swim. Senior Camper Charlie Knights swam his seal, a swim across the length of the lake (2.5 miles) from Seal Rock to the Beaches of Waziyatah. He had an excellent time.

Also this morning, BRC's 2003 kickball team went out in their team BRC uniforms to play an 11 and under game of kickball against Camp Wigwam. The boys played with a lot of energy and enthusiasm with a final score of Wigwam 3, BRC 2. It was a great game, and the campers had a sensational time. They really enjoyed just getting out of camp for a change of pace and scenery.

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In the afternoon, Counselors Dave Weeks and Andrew Chase took cabins 3, 4 & 5 on an adventure in the woods to Step Falls. These "falls" are like a natural water slides. The rocks have been etched out by years of water flowing down the surface of these giant boulder tops. The natural water slides that the campers shoot down end up in a large pull of chilly water. The boys said the water was very cold but it was well worth the plunge just to get a chance to shoot down the slides again and again. A good time was had by all.

Super Camper: Charlie Knights, for swimming his seal and helping a camper learn to sail and dive

Best Bed: Scott Loren

Cleanest Cabin: Owl's Perch

Friday, August 1st

Today was our first rainy day in about a week and a half. The boys bundled up in their warmer clothes and rain gear and set out for another day of fun. Although our field was closed, we were able to run our waterfront activities and swimming program. In fact, we had another major long distance swim. Henry Rounds swam his seal across the length of the lake. Way to go, Henry!

The afternoon was spent in the lodge playing board games and ping pong. Then we had a delicious fish dinner with Root Beer Floats (a camp treat courtesy of the Sherborn boys) for dessert.

The day ended with Movie Night. Upper Camp watched Dick Tracy and Lower Camp watched the original Star Wars.

Super Camper: Henry Rounds, for his awesome seal swim

Best Bed: Matt Clifford

Cleanest Cabin: Hilton A

Saturday, August 2nd

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This morning the rain was still falling, so we decided to go with our rainy day activity schedule. The boys did bowling, played with blocks, tried costumes and drama, even made their own postcards out of birch bark. It was an exciting change of pace and a great way to entertain them on a rainy day.

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In the afternoon, we had regular activities. It was Alumni Day so we had a few visitors from the past pay us a visit. At 4pm we had a beautiful service for Pat Brewster, son of the original founders who past away in the late spring. It was a beautiful service of stories and song. A number of campers decided to attend with all the alumni, family and friends of Pat's.

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Campfire was the evening activity, but we renamed it "Ceasefire" for this week in order force the campers to write up non-violent skits. It was surprisingly difficult for the kids to write skits with no fight scenes, after all that's all the see on TV. Anyway, it was a great attempt by everyone, and we all got a little chuckle out of the whole thing.

Super Camper: Robert Donahue, for his warm spirit and friendly attitude. Also, for his hard work helping to haul firewood during campcraft.

Best Bed: Matt Clifford

Cleanest Cabin: Cabin 7

Sunday, August 3rd

We had our traditional Sunday morning of letterwriting and showers. However, today our Board of Directors came for a visit. They had their annual board meeting in the library and then joined the group for a delicious "Thanksgiving" lunch. Word from the top is that they were very pleased with what they saw from our young gentlemen and hope the campers go home with many happy memories. We thank the Board for their continuing dedication to this place that many of us call home during the summer.

The afternoon activity was Geronimo up on the field, which many of the second session kids were begging us to play. The boys played hard and did a whole lot of running before heading down to the waterfront for a refreshing General Swim.

Tonight topic at Treetalk was History, it's role in your life and your role in it's life....Making a Difference. This is always a popular one and the kids talked up a storm.

Super Camper: Zach Press, for helping the other fellow in the afternoon game.

Best Bed: Robert Donahue

Cleanest Cabin: Cabin 7

Monday, August 4th

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Dark skies threatened rain all day, however the show went on as we only experienced scattered showers. It was a big day for badges in canoeing as Drew Cash earned his Penobscot and Chris McElroen added an Abenaki to his impressive achievement list here at the Rock. Archery saw badges firing left and right, with campers making achievements so numerous it impossible to list them all here. The field activities did conditioning and knowledge. Badges were also earned in campcraft. Early morning seals were swam by Al Thornton and Aidan Bozzelli, two veterans who finally went the length. Congratulations gentlemen!

We ended the day with evening activity. The campers have formed a baseball team for another run at history. They have challenged the staff yet again and the team got together for a practice tonight. Good luck to the campers! The rest of the camp played speedball which turned into a rare defensive struggle.

Super Camper: David Kane - for swimming his loon and positive attitude all day

Cleanest Cabin: Cabin 5

Best Bed: Christopher Cogswell

Tuesday, August 5th

The weather was kind of sketchy. Rain, no rain, clouds, no clouds, rain again, sun, and rain. Ah the craziness of Maine weather! Anyway, we had regular activities all day with two seals (Artem Kutikov and Dan Letovsky). The Seal is a long distance swim across the length of the lake (2 1/2 miles), if you hadn't heard yet.

In the afternoon, the sailing program started up the BRC Regatta. There were sailing races throughout the afternoon, and Erik Joelsson, the sailing counselor plans to run the rest of the Regatta tomorrow morning.

The evening was a cabin night. This is one of those nights when the cabins each sit around their own camp fires and cook hot dogs and smores. Then the cabin decides what they want to do as an activity. Some cabins challenged others to games on the field while other cabins played tag or orb amongst themselves.

Super Camper: Artem Kutikov & Dan Letovsky, the dynamic snack duo and seals

Best Bed: Alasdair Thornton

Cleanest Cabin: Hilton B

Wednesday, August 6th

Today was a muggy and rainy day in the morning with the lodge full of campers playing board games, cards and ping pong. We also had a couple seal swims this morning (Brad Carter and a secret camper). The secret camper asked me not to put his name on the website so he could tell his parents himself on Sunday.

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Then in the afternoon the clouds parted and the sun came out so we could finish with the BRC Sailing Regatta. The winds picked up in the afternoon so those boats were flying across the lake. The winners of the finals were the team of Charlie Knights and Luis Prida. Nice work, gents!

In the evening the rain came back so we decided to settle in and watch a few more movies. Tonight it was 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea for Lower Camp and Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure for Upper Camp.

Super Camper: Willy Taft, for his excellent attitude at instructional swim.

Best Bed: Henry Rounds

Cleanest Cabin: Owl's Perch

Thursday, August 7th

In the morning, Pete's Palace left for a few days on the Mahoosic Notch, and Owl's Perch left for a few days on the Carter Dome. Both trips are tough hiking trips that those guys should complete by Saturday.

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It was another regular day of activities, but we also had a guest visit us to teach us a little about Capoeira, a Brazilian Martial Art. Back in history, the slaves in Brazil were not allowed to fight or train in fighting so they came up with a form of fighting that looks like a dance. This way they could practice fighting right in front of their masters by making it into a dance. The campers first spent about 30 minutes practicing a few moves and learning from the instructor. The second half of the period they would alternate between a few musicians and two dancing in the center of a circle of clapping campers. The campers rotated between instruments and being in the center of the circle. Each sign-up group spent a period of their day with the Capoeira instructors. The boys really enjoyed it.

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In the evening, Lower Camp went off campus to the local movie theater to see Finding Nemo. Meanwhile, back at camp, Eagles Nest and Buzzards Roost had a field Olympics competition against each other which ended with a big pizza party in Upper Camp.

Super Camper: Dylan Laycox, for his happy, positive attitude and terrific sense of humor.

Best Bed: Pat Huycke

Cleanest Cabin: Cabin 2

Friday, August 8th

Today was a cloudy overcast day, but we didn't let that stop us from having a good time. It was a regular day of activities with badges awarded in soccer, mountain biking, archery and down on the waterfront. We had a couple long distance swims. Grant Carlson completed his Duck, and Giulio Fois and Ben Brewster both completed their loons. Nice job, guys!

In the evening we played ultimate frisbee up on the field. Lower Camp played a spectacular but somewhat competitive game, and Upper Camp played a game that went back and forth with each team scoring repeatedly.

Super Camper: Grant Carlson, for the terrific job he did on his duck

Best Bed: Sam Deeran

Cleanest Cabin: Cabin 1

Saturday, August 9th

It was an overcast day today, but once again we were able to get out an have a regular day of fun. Pete's Palace and Owl's Perch both returned from their trips and the CITs went out on a day trip, kayaking along the Portland Coastline.

We had another big swim this morning. In fact, it's a pretty huge swim. Eleven year old Christopher Cogswell completed his Seal swim this morning. Christopher is in line to do his whale swim next summer at twelve years old, which is the same age his uncle Chris swam his whale swim. We are so proud of his accomplishment. The other seal swim today, which of course is no less important, was completed by Upper Camper Sam Deeran. Way to go, Sam!

In the afternoon, the campers challenged the staff to a game of baseball. With about 10 or 11 people on each team and the rest of camp cheering on the sidelines, it was a really fun action packed game. The final score of the game was Staff 14 and Campers 4. The boys played a terrific game, especially on defense, and deserve a lot of credit for holding the staff to only 14 runs. Jeremy Kazanjian-Amory was a great player coach for the camper team and helped organize the whole event with camper practices and lots of enthusiasm.

We had our final Campfire of 2003 tonight. The skits were excellent including an amazing musical skit by the CITs. The staff skit was the best counselor skit of the summer about Wicked Willy, Announcement Guy, and Man with a Vampire Girlfriend against the STAFF force (Forgetful guy, Fashion guy, Hairball Man and The Tumbler). The campers also had a few great skits including Power Rangers in the Depths of Someone's Hair, The Royal Papers, and a Star Wars spoof. It was a fun night for all.

Super Camper: Kyle Kazanjian-Amory, for his amazing defense in the Camper/Staff Baseball game.

Best Bed: Sether Hanson

Cleanest Cabin: Eagles Nest

Tuesday, August 12th

Today was rainy day activities in the morning. Activities like games, drama, cards, ping-pong and music were enjoyed by all. Then in the afternoon we went back to regular activities. Many of the boys got their final badges of the year in shop, archery, sailing, canoeing and tennis.

In the evening it started to rain again so we decided to play board games in the individual cabins.

Super Camper: Owen Footer, the Birthday boy with the terrific personality

Best Bed: Christopher Cogswell

Cleanest Cabin: Cabin 4

Wednesday, August 13th

We awoke to sounds of the Beach Boys and sights of Frisbees cutting through the morning mist. BEACH DAY! It was a long time coming as we have been waiting patiently for the right weather since Monday. After munching on French Toast we hopped in the buses and headed south to Scarborough Beach.

For those not familiar with Beach Day, every year we take the whole camp to Scarborough during the last week. It is quite a sight as one hundred Birch Rockers descend on the sands and take the beach by storm. We started with the traditional lineup and all ran into the water at the same time. Then we had free time - campers played football, volleyball, or Frisbee and swam in the surf. Lunch was peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and granola bars. Unfortunately, thunderstorms rolled in quickly after lunch and we had to evacuate about an hour before we had planned to. However, there were no complaints as everyone made the most of their beach time.

Evening activity was the "strut contest" where each camper is given a nickname and asked to perform an original dance down on the waterfront. It was great fun - Julio Heinsen ("Spartacus"), Owen Footer ("Musgsy"), and Alasdair Thorton ("Turkey") were the three finalists with Turkey taking the grand prize (a thorough splashing at the hands of the 72 other campers).

Supercamper: Charlie Silverstein - for great attitude at the beach

Thursday, August 14th

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Hurrah! It was an exciting morning here at the Rock. While most of the boys had their last regular activities morning, one boy, Matt Clifford, swam the biggest swim of the summer. The WHALE! This is a huge swim around the perimeter of the lake it is about 5 1/2 miles. Matt completed the swim in an amazing time of 2 hours and 41 minutes. Awesome job, Matt!