SCATICO BLOG

Camp Scatico 8/1/24 Camp Scatico 8/1/24

Scatico Blog: Week 5 (July 24 - July 31)

Divisional Sing is one of those camp special events where we often find ourselves thinking: If only we could bottle this night.

Divisional Sing is one of those camp special events where we often find ourselves thinking: If only we could bottle this night. There is something electric in the air. A mix of jitters, camp spirit, enthusiasm, and earnestness. Counselors are just as “in it” as their campers. Groups come together and unify, huddling up and cheering their hearts out, before they take the stage. Performances are that perfect mix of silly and serious. Moments of pure campy joy and goofy energy, and others of quiet reflection.

For those who do not know, Divisional Sing is (as the title suggests) a song competition between the divisions. Girls and Boys Side do theirs separately, and each has their own time-honored spin on the event.

On Girls Side, divisions have “themes” that are a play on words of the divisional name. This year we had: Junior Prom, Walking in a Jinter Wonderland, Intside Out, Wild Wild Cents, Deb MD, Pirates of the Suben Seas, and 00Seniors (like 007). Campers are dressed in homemade “costumes” that incorporate nods to the theme (eg. prom sashes for the Juniors; silver Scatico belt buckles made of tinfoil for the Centers; spray painted T-shirts for many), and the homespun quality feels very on-the-nose Scatico. Each group performs an "entrance” (a somewhat new-er tradition, in which there is some kind of mini skit or elaborate way of taking the stage) and then a medley of popular songs to which their counselors have rewritten the lyrics. This “fun song” is a combination of references to the theme plus stories from the group’s summer, and general “poking fun” of camp life. The “fun song” is performed on the Social Hall stage, accompanied by an impressively elaborate mix of choreography. After the “fun song” comes the folk song, in which the tone shifts. Girls sit on the two steps leading up to the stage, hand in hand with their bunkmates, and perform a cover of a real folk song (or folk-adjacent song, if we’re being honest).

On Boys Side, there are no themes, and each division also performs one “fun song” and one “real song” (a slow, folk-ish song). The fun song is not a medley, but a popular song in its entirety that counselors have rewritten lyrics to— these lyrics focusing on the kids’ summer, big events, impending Color War, and shoutouts to campers and staff. There is usually a mix of “inside jokes” (that camp as a whole is largely in on), and songs always end with a burst of appreciation for camp and a look to next summer. Boys perform in their Social Hall (an indoor basketball court), standing in two rows barefoot. The performance has a few rituals: counselors and campers huddle on the side porch of the Social Hall before filing into the main performance area; each camper slaps their counselors’ hands as they file into their rows; two campers from each division are selected to announce and introduce each of the song performances.

There are three Sing Judges for each Divisional Sing. While they step outside to deliberate, Kerri and Mark (for their girls and boys sing, respecitvely) hand out 5, 10, and 3-year (for staff who were never Scatico campers) jackets! The “jacket ceremony” is always a special, milestone moment, and one campers and staff have been looking forward to year-round. It is a celebration of years of memories, friendships, and growth at Scatico, and an opportunity to be recognized in front of the entire camp. Campers and staff are called up to the stage to receive their jacket one-by-one, as the entirety of boys and girls camp applauds. As Mark shared in his opening speech, “There are not many things in our lives that we can say we have done, or been a part of consistently, for 5 and especially 10 years. It is a testament to the power and meaning of camp in our lives, and how it is a place and community that is a constant, always there for us even as we grow and change.” Beyond the 3, 5, and 10 years we had a few even longer Scatico career honors: a 20 year jacket for camp doctor Greg Mazarin; a 25 year for Girls Head Counselor Kerri (!); and a 40 (!) year for current Head of Filmmaking John Hickey.

With jackets distributed, and a few tears of celebration shed, the judges return to announce the winners. On Girls Side it was: 3rd place Debs, 2nd place Inters, 1st place Subs. On Boys Side: lower hill winner was the Sub-Juniors, and upper hill winner the Upper Seniors. As you can imagine— an eruption of cheers ensues. In fact, in the 2024 off-season March Madness bracket, the “sound of cheers in the Social Hall after a sing wing” was voted as a top Scatico sound! The moment of pure pride and jubilation at hearing your division’s name said aloud by a judge… it’s a piece of camp we carry with us year round.

This week before Color War and the end of camp brings another special event… Big Trips! After 5-weeks in the “Scatico bubble” (more or less, barring some day trips and tournaments), the Big Trip can feel extra special, and a bit like a journey into the unknown. A quick rundown of each division’s outing, which always ends with dinner out and a trip to the movies:

Junior girls: Howe Caverns
Jinter girls: Bounce Sports and Entertainment Center (a trampoline park pivot, after the water park was cancelled due to lightening… see you in 2025 Zoom Flume!)
Inter girls: Catamount Mountain Resort for ziplining
Center girls: Catamount Mountain Resort for ziplining
Deb girls: Bounce Sports and Entertainment Center
Sub girls: Co-ed white water rafting at Sacandaga
Freshman boys: Howe Caverns
Sophomore boys: Zoom Flume water park
Sub Junior boys: Minor League baseball game (including press conference and BBQ behind the center field fence) with the Hudson Valley Renegades
Junior boys: Catamount Mountain resort for ziplining
Inter boys: Splash Down water park
Sub Senior boys: Co-ed white water rafting at Sacandaga

More updates from the 12523 to come! As always…. the summer flies.

Camp Scatico 7/23/24 Camp Scatico 7/23/24

Scatico Blog: Week 4 (July 18 - July 23)

This past weekend, a major change in energy and perspective descended on the 12523. And we couldn’t be happier.

Excitement for our graduating Upper Seniors and Soopers, who headed off at 6AM Saturday morning on a charter bus bound for JFK Airport to begin their service trip in the Dominican Republic, running a one-week day camp at a local school in coordination with the DREAM Project. And excitement for the Seniors, who boarded a charter bus headed for a very different location: Lake Placid.

Scenes from day camp in the Dominican Republic

And, following a whirlwind bunk cleaning and setup, excitement for our twenty-eight 1-week campers, who arrived on Sunday at 2PM to begin their first sleepaway camp experiences.

For myself, I love imagining how Scatico must look and feel for a first-time camper. That magical mix of both exuberance and nervousness. Embracing the daily routines of lineups, meals, activities, and bedtime. Independence and adventure. Meeting new friends and counselors and older campers—knowing that many of these connections will last for years to come.

I spent time with each of the groups on Tuesday, asking the SITs (Scaticonians-In-Training) what they were most looking forward to during their week at camp. Their answers ranged: Fishing, Cooking, Soccer, Gymnastics, Swimming, and Woodshop. Wednesday’s Mystery Ride (the power of a posted schedule), Waterfront Cookouts, and (on girls side) Dance Show. Getting launched off the Rave at the Waterfront and becoming a “Flying Squirrel” (at the high ropes course). Even two votes for “hot dogs.” And, most importantly, “making friends.”
We often speak to the Scatico community of the “journeys” that await in life. For our graduating Upper Seniors and Soopers—the Service Trip foreshadows the end of their journeys as campers and the start of new paths for the many who will return as Junior Counselors in 2025. For the SITs, we hope they will embrace and remember these first-time Scatico experiences. The power of first steps.

Camp Scatico 7/17/24 Camp Scatico 7/17/24

Scatico Blog: Week 3 (July 11 - July 17)

We received an unexpected text from camp’s head of Art +Philosophy, Ken Vallario, Tuesday morning: “We decided to recreate this photo during first.”

We received an unexpected text from camp’s head of Art +Philosophy, Ken Vallario, Tuesday morning: “We decided to recreate this photo during first.” The referenced photo is the one below, a 1930s scene from the Scatico Boys Art Studio, in which we see kids hovered around a project (?) with a counselor in the back, and others working along the standing window tables.

The recreation from Tuesday’s first period optionals crew— a collection of lower hill campers working on Art Show projects— is pretty spot on. We have Head of Boys Art, Mar, presiding over the table in the back, and campers busy with projects along the side. Of course, there are some “spot the difference” moments: Crocs in 2024 versus ankle socks; athletic shorts instead of wool (?) ones; yarn and resin projects adorning the walls, rather than hand tools.

The phrase that came to mind was… the more things change, the more they stay the same. We talk a lot about the “timeless” quality of a Scatico summer experience. How a camper from the 1940s, or 60s, or 80s, and a camper today can not only speak the same Scatico language, and feel nostalgic for the same phenomena— rain on the bunk roof, the unstructured joy of free play, walking with a friend to a meal and spotting a rainbow (a camp moment just yesterday), being lifted up by a counselor— but compare notes on very specific Scatico traditions: Color War events, line up, Divisional Sing, Opening Campfire… The programming, values and life lessons of camp reflect, of course, the realities of an ever-changing world around us, and yet, there is always a seed of true consistency. A North Star that exists outside of time.

Another scene from this past week: girl side campers swimming out to the “wibit” (camp’s inflatable obstacle course) during General Swim, cracking up as they scale the “iceberg,” singing bits of Top 40 hits as they jump into the water. Some songs and chants are clearly from TikTok or memes— they plant us firmly in a specific time and place, the way hearing a song brings you back to the exact moment in your life when you first heard it— but the general gestalt is… timeless. Kids ranging in age from 8 (Juniors) to 14 (Subs), cheering each other on, laughing at not particularly funny (to an outsider) jokes or moments, remembering counselors and dives and General Swims from summers past. Older campers tell younger about when there, “wasn’t even a wibit.” Juniors work up the courage to try a flip off the top.

Coming to divisional mailboxes Thursday… Carnival announcement!

This Saturday, Scatico will embark upon another time-honored tradition… the Carnival. We think this special event dates back to the 1930s. And while we’ve implemented some upgrades since Carnival’s inception— an inflatable comes via a party rental company; a photobooth uses a digital camera— at its core the Scatico carnival is… timeless. Divisions operate throwback style state fair games like dart boards, hands-free donut eating contests, popcorn machines, and milk bottle tosses. Campers of all ages mingle and snack. Friends get married, and remarried, and married to new friends, with tinfoil rings at the marriage booth.

This year’s theme, Country Western, will (naturally) come with its own twists. Head of Maintenance Teddy will be moonlighting as a hay ride tour operator (campers do not yet know this). The Senior boys and girls will be operating a “Scatico Saloon” complete with line dancing. A series of gold rush golden rocks will be hidden throughout the Carnival to be “cashed in” for Scatico swag (bandanas, theme-fittingly).

Each summer in the 12523… a timeless, new frontier.

Camp Scatico 7/10/24 Camp Scatico 7/10/24

Scatico Blog: Week 2 (July 4 - July 10)

Another 7 days flies by at Scatico! At camp, it is easy to lose track of the day of the week. Certain dates are marked by certain milestones: but is July 4 a Wednesday or Thursday? Is DJ Pure on July 8 a Monday or a Tuesday? Often the day of the week is irrelevant…

One weekday stands out as an exception: Friday Nights. On Fridays, it is not the date but that it is a Friday that counts, as the entire boys and girls side gather separately after dinner for a moment of sharing and reflection.

On girls side, we go to the Amphitheater, where each week a different division takes charge of the evening’s “community meeting,” as we have come to call it. We start the first Friday with the Soopers, then Seniors, Subs, Debs, and so on. Each division picks what their focus will be, and the lessons and stories they want to impart to the wider community. On our first Friday, Soopers kicked it off by sharing Scatico’s 4 core values— Lifelong Community. Time to be a Kid, Personal Growth: Embrace the Journey, and From the 12523, to the World— what each of the values means to them, and how they embody them in their daily camp life. Last Friday, the Seniors took the lead, sharing something each of them wish they could tell their younger selves. The pervading message? Slow down and appreciate the time you have with your division.

On girls side, divisional lessons are interspersed with songs (but of course), including fan favorites like “If I Had a Hammer” and “For Our Hands are Strong.” Each song comes with its own “house rules,” like knowing when to echo lines (after, “I hammer out danger!” you turn and whisper to the person next to you “danger,” same goes for “warning”). First year campers catch on quick. The effect is a chorus of giggling and singing kids, all different ages, not particularly in tune or “unified,” but still a collective whole. We close it out with “Lost and Found Friday,” when even something as potentially dull as giving out the lost items that accumulate in the HC over the week, becomes an excuse to cheer on bunkmates (a lot of “repeat offenders” at Lost and Found Friday). Perhaps most impressive… how many campers can see an item hoisted in the air and instantly know who it belongs to, even when it’s not their bunkmate! “Oh, that’s so and sos water bottle.” For 135 girls— we are a close knit community.

TEAMS breaks during the summer's first Lost and Found Friday

On boys side, we head down to the bleachers at the boys waterfront, so campers can gaze out at the lake for a moment of contemplation before the “services,” as we call them, begin. On boys side an individual (or small group) delivers a “sermon”: a life lesson or personal experience they want to share. Ross MacPherson, Sub DL, delivered the first sermon, and Justin Zucker, Upper Senior DL, delivered the second. Boys side also has its own “house rules,” including each sermon beginning with the question: “Upper Seniors, can you hear me?” as the oldest boys sit the farthest back, on the porch of the Pixie House just behind the bleachers. The Upper Seniors dutifully respond, “Yeah.”

Ross— a third year staff member from Scotland (Scatico jacket summer!)— shared how his journey to camp back in 2022 was his first time on an airplane, and the beauty of taking a risk and diving into the unknown. Ross had actually been hired to work at Scatico in 2021, but was unable to make it that summer as J-1 visa holders from Europe were barred from entering the U.S. due to Covid. He marveled at the magic of sticking with an instinct— deciding to give camp another try after waiting a year— and that you never know the impact your decisions will have, so always push yourself to go for it.

Zucker reflected on his own first summer— and actually, first day— as a camper, and feeling nervous and unsure of how to fit in. He remembered he did not have the “cool” Pokemon cards when he arrived (his packs were a year old), but that a bunkmate lent him one of the new “in-demand” cards— a small gesture that spoke volumes. With time Zucker grew more comfortable, and more at home, at Scatico. His ultimate message? You can always be yourself at camp. No matter your interests, or personality quirks, or fears, or what Pokemon cards you come with… you can shine at Scatico.

A little silliness, a lot of heart, a time to be all together… Fridays represent a bit of the best of camp. They are also a marker by which we are able to look back and say— whoa did all of that happen in one week?! Senior Staff has spent the past few days marveling at the pace of camp— how a free play spent chatting with friends on picnic tables can feel relaxed and easy, almost like time standing still— and yet a week contains multitudes: 4th of July co-ed evening, Boys Nat, DJ Pure, hikes, tournaments, canteen sessions, a dozen jumps in the lake, something like two dozen individual activities, countless conversations and moments of connection.

We know next week will bring its own set of lessons and adventures…

Camp Scatico 7/3/24 Camp Scatico 7/3/24

Scatico Blog: Week 1 (June 26 - July 3)

A lot can happen in a week…

We frequently marvel at the quality of time at Scatico, and it is perhaps at its most surreal in this first (and in the last) week of camp. Parked cars lining the driving range, and email exchanges about van pick up times, feel like a distant memory. New campers who, in those first 24 hours, looked puzzled at statements like, “We’ll go after free play,” or “Check the HC,” now confidently navigate campus, familiar with the rhythms and routines of Scatico life. Returning campers, a mix of enthusiasm and nerves on Opening Day, start to feel the distance (emotional, physical) of the past 10 months, shrink and shrink.

Among many things— a week of bonding, time-honored traditions, acclimation, first activities, new friends— the first week of camp is also something of a digital detox, and entry into the world of the great outdoors. Just one moment from this first week that embodies the transition…

On Monday night, which happened to be the first Canteen night for Upper Hill (Deb girls/ Inter boys and up for those new to Scatico), Elizaville (and its surrounding area) lost power for about 2 hours. Down in the office, we noticed immediately. Lights flickered, computer screens went black. Walking out onto the Main House porch, and looking up on the girls Athletic Fields— where a series of co-ed and divisional evening activities were taking place (jump rope, soccer, volleyball)— it was clear… campers had no idea. Activities continued uninterrupted. Peals of laughter, the sounds of feet on court pavement. Kids playing in the golden hour glow of a pre-sunset sky. Of course, behind the scenes there was the typical camp scrambling (ice for the Health Center and Canteen, a generator for the kitchen and water systems), but for campers, it was a camp night almost like any other. Time slowed down. Just enjoying a simple activity with friends, outside.

Beautiful weather and late sunsets don’t hurt when it comes to generating that first week special camp sauce. Going back in time, Friday night and Opening Campfires, we were lucky to have a picture perfect June evening. Chilly enough for “long and long,” the sky alight when boys and girls walked down to their respective campfire circles, but dark and full of stars when they returned to campus. On girls side, Soopers lead the campfire, taking time to explain full-camp events and traditions (Camp Sisters, Teams, Color War) and camp values. At the close of the campfire, Soopers distribute candles for each camper to make a wish on. Campers and staff sit and gaze at the tiny flame in their hand, each individual contributing their own light to the glow of the whole circle, and community (an apt metaphor).

On boys side, the Opening Campfire is filled with stories and games. Head Counselor Mark and Director David, both reflected on Opening Days from years ago–Mark’s as a first-year camper at the camp he attended growing up, Blue Star, and David’s (unsurprisingly) baseball-themed. Fool ball and pillow fights keep the energy going, and the night closes out with some acoustic music. Nothing quite like the strum of a guitar around a campfire.

We’d be remiss not to mention, in keeping with the great outdoors theme, week one also marks the first farm outings, hikes, tournaments and overnights! Center and Inter girls went cherry picking…. Freshman boys and Junior girls blueberry picked and headed to Mills Mansion… Jinter girls went to Boulder Rock (in the Catskills)…. Sub boys to Bonticou Crag (in the Mohonk Preserve)… Sub girls played flag football at Pontiac… Senior boys and girls played night hockey and volleyball at Berkshire Hills… Inter and Sub boys headed to Wahnee for basketball… today the Sub Juniors will go to Inspiration Point and the Junior boys to Monument Mountain.

Of course, 4th of July, and the first full-camp, co-ed evening of the summer looms large on next week’s update horizon. More to come from the 12523…

Camp Scatico 6/10/24 Camp Scatico 6/10/24

Scatico x SCOPE Dream Boxes

Each summer we aim to embody camp’s fourth value “From the 12523 to the World,” to extend the camp experience and philosophy beyond Scatico’s gates. As part of this goal, on July 30, we are having Scatico's third annual Service Day, where we will engage campers in projects and activities to partner with local and nonprofit organizations. Campers will have the opportunity to participate in various service projects, such as running a car wash to raise money for the local fire department and working alongside our friends at Kite’s Nest to compost and participate in their community garden.

As part of the Service Day activities Scatico is once-again partnering with SCOPE, a nonprofit organization that provides children from low-income families opportunities at overnight summer camps to help them grow in the camp environment and beyond. SCOPE believes that summer camp is an essential component of the year-round education and development of children that impacts their futures. SCOPE raises funds to send kids to one of their dozens of their ACA-accredited nonprofit overnight camp partners across the United States.

For the SCOPE Service Day project, campers will create “Dream Boxes” for SCOPE campers at Ramapo for the 2025-2026 school year. Each “Dream Box” will contain new school supplies and be personally decorated to reflect each recipient kid!

This is where we need your help! On Opening Day and Visiting Day, families will have the opportunity to donate new educational supplies for the “Dream Boxes.” The list of supplies needed includes but is not limited to:

Pencils
Pens
Notebooks
Pencil Cases
Erasers
Colored Pencils
Crayons
Highlighters
Stickers
Pencil Sharpeners
Scissors
Sharpie Pens
Glue Sticks
Folders
Index Cards
White-out
Tape
Rulers

Learn more about Scope x Scatico's partnership

Camp Scatico 6/1/24 Camp Scatico 6/1/24

News from Scatico: Audrey joins year-round team!

Letter announcing Audrey’s transition to Assistant Director at Scatico.

Dear Scatico Families,

We are writing you from the Main Office at camp, a verdant golf course (thanks to lots of spring rain!) visible through the window. The move to Scatico for the season never ceases to be an exciting turning point, even after all these years.

With Opening Day approaching, we want to share an exciting update: Audrey Fleischner (David and Diana’s youngest daughter, sister to Nicki, and wife of Boys Head Counselor Mark) will be joining the year-round Scatico team as an Assistant Director! After 8 years as a classroom teacher at both public and independent schools in New York City (currently, for 5th graders at PS 234), Audrey is making the transition to the family business full time!

For those who don’t know Audrey personally, she has never missed a Scatico summer since birth (following in her father’s footsteps). Passionate about working with children at an early age, she holds a Dual Master’s Degree from Bank Street Graduate School of Education in General Education (1-6) and Students with Disabilities. Over the years she has worn many Scatico hats: Camper, JC, Division Leader, Nat Coach, enthusiastic hike leader, and DJ “AFleisch” at Scatapalooza, among them. Most recently, Audrey has served as camp’s Athletics Director, and is, unquestionably, the athlete of the family.

2007 Girls Nat Champions! Audrey back row, middle.

This summer, you can still expect to see Audrey spending time on the girls athletic fields, but in her year-round capacity she will engage in camper-facing outreach and program planning. We know her years of classroom experience will enhance our work and how we support our campers year-round and beyond the 12523. Of course, we feel very lucky to have a summer Senior Leadership Team filled with educators, including Head Counselors Kerri and Mark, and Assistant Head Counselors, Dusty, Jane, Quinn, and Moises.

We are profoundly grateful to be a business in its fourth generation of family ownership, and appreciate it’s an increasing rarity in today’s world– even within the camping industry. While Scatico’s history and tradition is undoubtedly part of camp’s essence, it is the power of our community– from the youngest one-week campers and first-year staff traveling far from overseas, to Division Leaders proudly donning their 10-year fleeces– that really make Scatico what it is. Every anecdote we hear about a longtime camper extending themselves to that new bunkmate, or about two Scaticonians who never overlapped summers somehow connecting and getting into a deep dive on day-to-day Scatico life… affirms for us the warmth and spirit of this community.

Thank you for forming the fiber of camp.

Green and grey forever,

David + Nicki

Camp Scatico 5/15/24 Camp Scatico 5/15/24

Meet Scatico Senior Leadership + Program Staff

We’re excited to introduce our leadership and program staff for summer 2024 ! These are members of our community who do not live in cabins with campers (as Counselors and Division Leaders do) but who help oversee camper life, activities, special events, and operations. We want to share a little more about these key Scaticonians! Who wants to do the math on how many combined Scatico summers represented?

HEAD COUNSELORS

KERRI WINDERMAN, GIRLS HEAD COUNSELOR

My first summer at camp was…1981 (entering my 25th summer).

I travel to camp from… Rye, NY.

When I’m not at camp I… am an Instructional Math Coach for the Rye City School District, where I focus on curriculum and professional development for elementary teachers.

My favorite place in camp is…the lake and the HC porch (of course).

This summer, I’m most excited to… welcome new campers, reunite with returning campers, and mentor an amazing staff.

MARK GRETENSTEIN, BOYS HEAD COUNSELOR

My first summer at camp was… 2018 / 6th summer at Scatico.

I travel to camp from… Brooklyn.

When I’m not at camp I… teach middle school math in East New York, Brooklyn.

At camp, you’ll most likely find me…hanging on the HC porch or stopping by as many activities as possible!

This summer, I’m most excited to…reconnect with everyone in the Scatico community and embrace all of the surprising and unpredictable moments that make every summer unique and special.

DUSTY FOX, ASSISTANT GIRLS HEAD COUNSELOR

Number of summers at Scatico… 1985/ 26 this summer.

I travel to camp from… Asheville, NC .

When I’m not at camp I’m… a middle school English teacher.

At camp, you’ll most likely find me…at activities or walking on the left side of Kerri :)

This summer, I’m most excited to… have Jane join me as Assistant Head Counselor, see Poppy as a Sooper, and just enjoying both the little and big moments!

QUINN CROLAND, ASSISTANT BOYS HEAD COUNSELOR

My first summer at camp was… 2001 and 21 summers at camp.

I travel to camp from… Hawthorne, NJ.

When I’m not at camp I…work as a special education middle school teacher. Specifically, I’m teaching 8th grade resource room social studies and language arts; science in LLD room; and co-teacher for 6th and 7th grade science.

My favorite place in came is… the Boys HC because that’s where everything happens and you can see everything. Whether it’s listening to music or a baseball game in the Yankee or Mets seats, or enjoying a sun cup while playing a game of chess, or reading a comic book. During rest hour, relaxing and talking to other campers or counselors to see how their days are going.

This summer, I’m most excited to…meet all the new campers and counselors. Another great year of BBQ for another great year of Legends. Lastly, getting the chance to help out any new counselors become a part of the Scatico family. (Also working with Randy and Mark when it comes to making more things in pottery this year.)

JANE ROSENFELD, Assistant head counselor

My first summer at camp was… 2004, this is summer #17!

I travel to camp from… NYC.

When I’m not at camp I… am a 4th-grade teacher.

At camp, you’ll most likely find me…in the HC, swimming the lane, or walking around visiting people at activities.

This summer, I’m most excited to… go to the DR again and take on a new role at camp!

MOISES “MOE” TORRES, ASSISTANT BOYS HEAD COUNSELOR

My first summer at camp was… 2013. This will be my 11th summer.

I travel to camp from…the Czech Republic, but I am from Washington Heights, NY.

When I’m not at camp I’m… a Spanish teacher and Co-Director of the afterschool program at a school in Prague. I also play semi pro basketball in the Czech Republic.

At camp, you’ll most likely find me…on the basketball court or on center campus.

This summer I’m most excited to… be able to see friends I don't get the chance to see during the year and help campers create similar bonds/friendships as those I have made during my time at camp.

WATERFRONTS

ISHAI ESHED, HEAD BOYS WATERFRONT

My first summer at camp was… 2019. 6 summers at Scatico!

I travel to camp from… I have been living in Ecuador for the last 20 years but was born and raised in Israel.

When I’m not at camp… My wife and I own a Green School in our home town in Ecuador.

At camp, you’ll most likely find me…at the waterfront.

This summer I’m most excited to…see all my camp friends and have fun down at the waterfront.

Julieta martos, HEAD of girls waterfront

My first summer at camp was… 2021, summer #4.

I travel to camp from… Córdoba, Argentina.

When I’m not at camp I… work as a swimming teacher and lifeguard. I also dance and work as a physical education teacher.

At camp, you’ll most likely find me…at the waterfront!

This summer, I’m most excited to… see the girls and meet new people.

ATHLETICS

RANDY AU, HEAD OF BOYS ATHLETICS

My first summer at camp was… 1984, 23rd summer.

I travel to camp from…Columbus, OH.

When I’m not at camp… I'm retired from being a school psychologist and a YMCA director. I now substitute teach once in a while.

At camp, you’ll most likely find me…on the A-Court.

This summer, I’m most excited to…have every division for Hoops with Randy!

AUDREY FLEISCHNER, head of Girls Athletics + assistant director

My first summer at camp was… 2000 (24 summers).

I travel to camp from… Brooklyn.

When I’m not at camp I… teach 5th grade in New York City.

At camp, you’ll most likely find me…on the girls hill, organizing the sports shed.

This summer, I’m most excited for… my first lane swim!

VINOD DOGRA, HEAD OF BOYS TENNIS

My first summer at camp was… 2000, summer 22.

I travel to camp from…India.

When I’m not at camp I… run tennis and pickleball programs for adults and kids.

At camp, you’ll most likely find me…at the boys side tennis courts and with Scatico's pickellers.

This summer, I’m most excited to… see campers in action on the courts and work with a new member of the tennis staff team.

BEN LEW, HEAD GIRLS TENNIS

My first summer at camp was… 1996 / 2024 is my 13th full summer and I’ve got some 1-3 week stints from another 5 to mix in.

Travel to camp from… I now live in Clermont, NY and grew up in Ardsley.

When I’m not at camp… I run a small business and take care of Henry (Lew).

At camp, you’ll most likely find me…in the shade, near girls tennis.

This summer, I’m most excited to…create an eclectic and exciting playlist to blast. I’ll keep the bluegrass to a minimum, I promise…

pj mapumulo, tennis + pickleball assistant

My first summer at camp was… 2010, but this is my first time back since that summer! So it’s my second summer.

Travel to camp from… California, but I’m originally from South Africa.

When I’m not at camp…teach and play Tennis, pickleball, and golf.

At camp, you’ll most likely find me…at the tennis or pickleball courts.

This summer, I’m most excited to…be bringing my family to camp and exploring New York more.

CREATIVE + CULINARY ARTS

KEN VALLARiO, HEAD OF ART AND PHILOSOPHY

My first summer at camp was…1999 (11 summers at Scatico).

I travel to camp from…Asheville, NC.

When I’m not at camp I… do art and teach kids.

At camp, you’ll most likely find me…in arts and crafts or running a philosophy circle under a tree.

This summer, I’m most excited to…do more pottery on boys side and more philosophy on girls side.

LAURA GOLD, HEAD OF ARTS N CRAFTS

My first summer at camp was… 1995, 17 summers and counting.

I travel to camp from… the beaches of Ecuador. Originally from Queens, NY.

When I’m not at camp I… am the director of Ayni Green School, a holistic educational community dedicated to fostering regenerative practices and sustainability.

My favorite place in camp is…the arts and crafts shack, but of course!

This summer, I’m most excited to…have fun and inspire creativity in the place that was my greatest inspiration! And also to try out the new arts and crafts deck!

ALLY MCARTHUR aka Chef Ally, co-hEAD OF COOKING

My first summer at camp was… 1983 / 21.

I travel to camp from…Norwalk, CT.

When I’m not at camp I… cater and plan events in NYC and tri-state.

At camp, you’ll most likely find me…in the cook shack or on the cook shack porch (or health center porch).

This summer, I’m most excited to…test out fun new recipes and tricks with budding chefs!

Justin Mazzola, co-hEAD OF COOKING

My first summer at camp was… 2016 - 8 summers.

I travel to camp from… Connecticut.

When I’m not at camp I… am a nursing student and restaurant worker.

At camp, you’ll most likely find me…in the cook shack!!

This summer, I’m most excited to…make sweet treats with Chefs Ally and Ale!!!

JJ HICKEy, HEAD OF FILMMAKING

My first summer at camp was… 1982 / 40 summers at camp.

I travel to camp from…Los Angeles. Originally from Elizaville!

When I’m not at camp I… write and direct films. I also mentor early-career and emerging screenwriters.

At camp, you’ll most likely find me…in Mosquito Hollow at the Film Shack.

This summer, I’m most excited to… see all my friends.

JAMIE SEGAL, HEAD OF PERFORMING ARTS + MEDIA

My first summer at camp was… 2007, this will be summer 16!

I travel to camp from…New York.

When I’m not at camp I… live and teach first grade in NYC!

At camp, you’ll most likely find me…playing guitar in the pagoda or swimming in the lake :)

This summer, I’m most excited to… run the girls' side Media program!

MAR VAZQUEZ, ART + DANCE

My first summer at camp was… 2019, this will be my 5th summer.

I travel to camp from… Mexico City.

When I’m not at camp I… model and host events for companies :)

At camp, you’ll most likely find me… at the Boy's Art Shack or Dance room <3

This summer, I’m most excited to… meet new people and create something beautiful for the Art Show!

SAM ANDERSON, CERAMICS

My first summer at camp is… this summer!

I travel to camp from… Hudson, NY.

When I’m not at camp… I'm teaching Pre K - 5th grade art at the Hudson City School District. When I'm not working, I'm usually spending time with my dog, Kikko, or crafting.

At camp, you’ll most likely find me… splattered with clay in the ceramics studio on the girls’ side.

This summer, I’m most excited to… get to know everyone!

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

WILL BUSSERT, HEAD of OUTDOOR ADVENTURE

My first summer at camp was… 2021, so this will be my fourth summer at Camp Scatico.

I travel to camp from… Niskayuna, NY / Ballston Spa, NY.

When I’m not at camp I…teach PE for grades NS-6 in Woodstock, NY.

At camp, you’ll most likely find me…somewhere along the water on camp from the boys fishing hut all the way around to the girls side campfire area. Making fires or setting up and getting ready for overnights in the woods. This past summer you may have found me at Batting practice, playing soccer, or hanging out in and around boys HC.

This summer, I’m most excited to…be outside, do the things I enjoy and share that passion of the outdoors, nature, sports and camp. Also win T-League.

STEVE LEWANICK, HEAD of ropes + tower

My first summer at camp was… I took Scatico groups caving 15-20 years ago but started running the Tower four years ago. (I rode down to check out the camp but had no intention of taking the position. Then I met David…)

Travel to camp from… Albany. Lived in the the capital district all my life.

When I’m not at camp I’m… trying to learn how to stay out of trouble. ;) I rock/ice climb, cave, golf, scuba dive, ski, ride my motorcycle.

At camp, you’ll most likely find me…yelling, I mean encouraging folks to learn and laugh.

This summer, I’m most excited to… work with my awesome staff and see the emotional growth of the campers.

KITCHEN

RICARDO TURNBULL, HEAD CHEF

My first summer at camp was… 2010.

I travel to camp from… Boca Raton, Florida.

When I’m not at camp I… do special events and catering.

At camp, you’ll most likely find me… in the kitchen.

This summer, I’m most excited to… meet new staff.

Sarah Davis-Mapumulo, DIETARY Restriction + Allergy Specialist

My first summer at camp was… this is my first summer!

I travel to camp from… the East Bay of San Francisco.

When I’m not at camp I… am a personal chef, and lover of arts and water sports!

At camp, you’ll most likely find me… at the Dining Hall with a smile!

This summer, I’m most excited to… be outdoors, getting to know new faces and getting in a boat of some sort.

PHOTO + MEDIA

cory schwartz, head of photo + media

My first summer at camp was… 1988, in bunk 4 as a sub-junior. This will be summer 26.

I travel to camp from… Rye Brook, NY.

When I’m not at camp … am currently a stay at home dad to both Sebastian (5) and Peyton (3). I am also a photographer shooting events, concert, parties, family portraits, etc.

My favorite place in camp is… There are 3 that elicit very strong emotions for me, The HC porch, the Lake, and Field 4.

This summer, I’m most excited to… be there to watch campers and staff contribute to a culture of living your best life. Capture those moments as a photographer as best I can…and to drink a few icy cold suncups.

HEALTH CENTER

patti press aka nurse p, HEAD NURSE

My first summer at camp was… 1977, this is my 22nd summer!

I travel to camp from… Haworth, NJ.

When I’m not at camp … you can find me giving injections to the elderly or to teachers for Flu season! This is how I have become a pro at giving shots :) or you can find me playing pickle ball with my local friends. I still love spending time with my camp friends after all these years as well as with my ”new" camp friends that I have made over these last 11 Summers as a camp nurse. This is by far the best gig EVER!

My favorite place in camp is… obvious…..the Health Center porch! Nothing better then having all the kids from boys side and/or girls side walking by during the day and night always saying “hi” with a big smiles on their faces! Sometimes they are singing, asking for ice and a bandaid, or trying to talk one of the nurses into giving them some Gatorade! Nothing truly beats the sound from the lake of the kids having fun, or a camper/s coming to sit with us just to talk and chill.

This summer, I’m most excited to… just be back to life in our little camp bubble we call Scatico!!To disconnect from reality for a bit and to get to spend time with my Scatico family. Summer #22 here I come!!! Let’s go 12523!! See everyone soon! PS-Get your medical forms in and prescriptions sent! :) Sorry could not help myself there!!

CARLY MESSITTE aka nurse carly, HEAD NURSE

My first summer at camp was… 2022 / going into summer #3!

I travel to camp from… Merrick, NY.

When I’m not at camp I… work at an Elementary School as a Nurse, hang with my dog Lara and play guitar

At camp, you’ll most likely find me… at the Heath Center!.

This summer, I’m most excited to… make sure everyone has a safe and healthy summer!

ben klein aka bk, mental health specialist

My first summer at camp was… 1988, 18 summers at Camp

I travel to camp from… Maplewood, NJ.

When I’m not at camp I… live with my wife Sara, children Harry and Maddy and dog Archie. I am the lower school psychologist at Collegiate School in NYC.

At camp, you’ll most likely find me… sitting at a picnic table chatting, walking the road, or down by the lake, my favorite spot in camp.

This summer, I’m most excited to… rejoin a community that has meant a lot to me since I was 10 years old and excited to meet a new generation of Scatico campers and counselors who have come since my last summer in camp 2007.

MAINTENANCE

teddy lydon, head of maintenance

My first summer at camp was…1997/ 25 summers.

I travel to camp from… I live on camp! And am originally from the 12523.

When I’m not at camp I… I am at camp!

My favorite place in camp is… The Sunset Trail.

This summer, I’m most excited to… meet new staff and see everyone returning for another summer.

Camp Scatico 5/12/24 Camp Scatico 5/12/24

Meet the 2024 DLs

We are incredibly excited to introduce the 2024 Division Leaders— 18 Scaticonians who combined have spent 150+ summers at Scatico!

We are incredibly excited to introduce the 2024 Division Leaders (DLs)— 18 Scaticonians who combined have spent 150+ summers at Scatico!

Division Leaders serve as a “head counselor” for each group in camp. They live in cabins with their campers, travel to virtually all of their activities with them, plus oversee the other counselors in the group. Typically, there is one DL per division, but this year we are lucky to have Co-DLs for the Juniors and Freshman, the two youngest groups in camp!

Get to know this year’s team below!

Jenna Fass, Juniors (Rising 3rd + 4th)

Number of summers at Scatico: 13

When I’m not at camp I… am pursuing my masters at Teachers College in Early Childhood and Special Education.

My favorite place/ activity at camp is… the lake and parachute games.

A camp memory I love is… Opening Day each summer when I am back at my favorite place and give all of my closest friends the biggest hug.

This summer, I’m most excited to…make incoming campers love Scatico as much as I do!!

Carly Rosh, Juniors (Rising 3rd + 4th)

Number of summers at Scatico: 11!

When I’m not at camp I… just graduated from Syracuse University, and am going to be a teacher! I also enjoy spending time with my family and friends.

My favorite place/ activity at camp is… cooking. Shoutout Chef Ally for making my Junior Counselor (JC) summer so fun and memorable!

A camp memory I love is… being with my bunk mates and creating lasting bonds with everyone else at camp.

This summer, I’m most excited to…be back at my second home and have fun with all the campers and staff! I am excited to watch my campers experience “Camp Scatico Firsts” like jumping in the lake and walking to meals.

charlie bochner, freshmen (rising 3rd + 4th)

Number of summers at Scatico: 10

When I’m not at camp I…go to college in Boulder, Colorado.

My favorite place/ activity at camp is… hanging out, talking to my friends, making memories at the lake.

A camp memory I love is… waking up early to watch the sunrise with my former DL Bryce Holden. Another great memory is winning a basketball inter camp game against Kenmont.

This summer, I’m most excited to…see my friends for the first time in a while. Also meet the Freshmen and make memories with them!

Sam ranzer, freshmen (rising 3rd + 4th)

Number of summers at Scatico: 10

When I’m not at camp I…am a student at Indiana University Bloomington.

My favorite place/ activity at camp is… the 13-14 porch.

A camp memory I love is… sitting in Adirondack chairs with my division.

This summer, I’m most excited to…be back in camp with my lifelong friends.

RACHEL BIRD, JINTERS (Rising 5th)

Number of summers at Scatico: 3

When I’m not at camp I…am in the UK graduating from university. I'm going back to university in the fall to get my teaching qualification.

My favorite place/ activity at camp is… the lake. I love chilling at the lake as well as having fun at GS, especially on a hot day!

A camp memory I love is… having the time of my life with my campers at our Big Trip to Zoom Flume.

This summer, I’m most excited to…be a DL and spend time with my campers and friends, creating amazing memories.

RYAN DERASSE, Sophomores (Rising 5th)

Number of summers at Scatico: 12

When I’m not at camp I…am a student at the University of Illinois, studying to be an Elementary School Teacher. I am a member of the Alpha Epsilon Pi fraternity and a part of Best Buddies at my school. In my free time, I enjoy hanging out with my friends and watching TV.

My favorite place/ activity at camp is… the boys fishing dock overlooking the lake. It is nice to take a step back from the busy days of camp to look out onto the beautiful lake. It is a peaceful spot that I go to, to appreciate camp and the world around me.

My favorite activity at camp is Rope Burn and a packed GS on a hot day. I love the Rope Burn because I have been obsessed with campfires and nature since I was a camper and have mastered the technique to the perfect Rope Burn fire. And… there is nothing better than pulling the audible on playing basketball in the blazing, hot sun, going to the lake, and seeing that every other lower hill division has made the same choice. With campers on the magic carpet, getting launched 40 feet in the air on the rave, or with a swarm on pool noodles chatting. Life doesn't get better than that.

A camp memory I love is… During my Senior summer, we had a Bar Mitzvah Theme Day for two international campers in our division. During the evening we threw a party in our bunk for them with campers and counselors of all ages.

This summer, I’m most excited to…guide my division into their first summer as a one grade division.

RYAN LAPATINE, Inters (Rising 6th)

Number of summers at Scatico: 10

When I’m not at camp I… am with my family/friends and studying engineering at Vanderbilt in Nashville!

My favorite place/ activity at camp is… the road path.

A camp memory I love is… the time right before lunch when everyone is together at the U and listening to music.

This summer, I’m most excited to… spend time in the best place on earth with the most amazing people!!

Logan cooper, sub juniors (Rising 6th)

Number of summers at Scatico: 9

When I’m not at camp I… am studying at the University of Richmond and spending time with friends and family.

My favorite place/ activity at camp is… center campus.

A camp memory I love is… the social hall of my Upper Senior summer on the final night of Color War.

This summer, I’m most excited to… get to know the sub juniors, create a fun bunk atmosphere, and bring the group closer together.

EMMA HOCHBERG, CENTERS (rising 7th)

Number of summers at Scatico: 11

When I’m not at camp I… am an undergraduate at Lehigh University studying International Relations and Economics!

My favorite place/ activity at camp is… Place: the Clubhouse porch, the lake, the Girls' HC, the plaque room, or the Coves! Activity: GS or softball.

A camp memory I love is…writing and performing a Junior Counselor (JC) sing with my divisionmates at the 2021 banquet.

This summer, I’m most excited to… spend time with my campers, friends, and family!

JORDAN KLEIN, JUNIORS (Rising 7th)

Number of summers at Scatico: 10

When I’m not at camp I… am a student at the University of Michigan. Go Blue!

My favorite place/ activity at camp is… T-League. Nothing beats being out on that field.

A camp memory I love is… hanging outside 1-AB with my division mates.

This summer, I’m most excited to… create lifelong memories for the Junior boys.

sophie rosen, debs (rising 8th)

Number of summers at Scatico: 10

When I’m not at camp I… go to school at Indiana University and hang out with my friends as much as I can!

My favorite place/ activity at camp is… the U at the dining hall where everyone comes together before meals!!

A camp memory I love is… simply just walking the road path to meals with my division every day.

This summer, I’m most excited to… be a DL for the first time, see my old campers, and bond with my new campers!!

Tyler winderman, inters (rising 8th)

Number of summers at Scatico: 10

When I’m not at camp I… attend the University of Michigan where I am majoring in Sport Management and Business.

My favorite place/ activity at camp is… My favorite place is field 4 / My favorite activity is T-league, softball.

A camp memory I love is… eating lunch and spending time together atop Breakneck after hiking.

This summer, I’m most excited to… help create lasting memories and friendships, like the ones I made as a camper.

emma krasner, SUBS (rising 9th)

Number of summers at Scatico: 12

When I’m not at camp I… study Education as Syracuse University!

My favorite place/ activity at camp is… the Admin Porch.

A camp memory I love is… Teams breaking my Sooper summer.

This summer, I’m most excited to… be back with my girls from 2022 for another amazing summer!

Ross Macpherson, SUB SENIORS (rising 9th)

Number of summers at Scatico: 3

When I’m not at camp I… am a Graduate Environmental consultant.

My favorite place/ activity at camp is… can’t beat the lake.

A camp memory I love is… having the honour of being a General last summer.

This summer, I’m most excited to… be with a new group of boys and making memories to last a lifetime!

JENNA MILLER, Seniors (rising 10th)

Number of summers at Scatico: 12

When I’m not at camp I… am hanging out with college friends at the University of Maryland. This past semester I also had the opportunity to study abroad in Florence.

My favorite place/ activity at camp is… the "U" outside the dining hall. I love that before meals everyone can hangout and you can see your friends from other divisions. Everyone is just talking and dancing to good music.

A camp memory I love is…the 4th of July talent show. I love how the whole camp comes together and it is always so special.

This summer, I’m most excited to…continue to create stronger relationships and more memories with the Senior girls!!! This is my second year with these girls and I could not be more excited to have the best summer ever with them.

GEORGE RICHARDSON, seniors (rising 10th)

Number of summers at Scatico: 3

When I’m not at camp I… work as an inclusion support mentor for children of all ages who struggle to stay in school. In September I will be going back to university to train as a high school biology teacher!

My favorite place/ activity at camp is… the lake. It's an obvious choice right?

A camp memory I love is… last summer our freshmen/sophmore soccer league final nearly got cancelled as there were not enough refs. The sub-seniors stepped up and refereed the final for us and cheered for the lower hill campers while they played. It really embodied camp spirit and community.

This summer, I’m most excited to… spend quality time at camp with a new division and create more memories to look back on fondly!

Andie perez, soopers (rising 11th)

Number of summers at Scatico: 4

When I’m not at camp I…am pursuing a Master’s in fashion management and working in marketing.

My favorite place/ activity at camp is… the lake and wipe out!!

A camp memory I love is… finding lifelong friends and maintaining long distance friendships!

This summer, I’m most excited to…be a DL and learn more about myself while helping the campers become better versions of themselves! As well as hoping to inspire them.

JUSTIN ZUCKER, UPPER SENIORS (rising 11th)

Number of summers at Scatico: 12

When I’m not at camp I… am entering my junior year. I just transferred to UNCW.

My favorite place/activity at camp is… Softball on field four.

A camp memory I love is… from my early camp career. Ging Vann was super head OD and let the lower hill stay up past taps to finish a full camp game of Chicago, which he won.

This summer, I’m most excited to… Win T-league and gain more wisdom from Ken.

Camp Scatico 4/19/24 Camp Scatico 4/19/24

Stories from Scatico Senior Staff: Ken Vallario

Ken shares the roots of camp’s Philosophy program, and who inspired him at camp.

The fourth post in our guest blog series, featuring Ken!

As a reminder…

In “Stories with Scatico Senior Staff” we have guest blog post authors share lessons, musings, or connections between their life outside of camp to their life in it. Our hope is that this series serves as a little taste of the 12523 during the school year, and helps you learn more about the people who help make Scatico… Scatico!

Ken addresses camp at Open Mic night, a special event he spearheaded at camp, along with The Art Show and Legends. (Open Mic also pictured in the banner above).

My name is… Ken Vallario.

My first summer at Scatico was… 1999.

My first summer on Senior Staff was… 2016.

When I’m not at camp, I’m… an artist, philosopher, and wandering educator.

At camp, I’m… Head of Arts and Crafts, Events, and Philosophy.

My favorite camp event is… Legends, of course.

After 25 years of being in the Scatico community I see camp as a place where people discover who they are. As I think back on my first summers Aziz comes to mind, a long-time tennis counselor who built a beautiful legacy at camp. He inspired people to be their best while also living out loud as a proud eccentric. He was a deep thinker and he liked to speak in riddles. As a young counselor I was fascinated by him. When I struggled as a young counselor, he would always speak to me from a very wide perspective and respected me as I was.

Aziz on the tennis courts his last summer.

Aziz invented The Heart of the Lion, a tradition of acknowledging somebody who showed a lot of heart in their tennis, regardless of their skill level. When I was new to Scatico I thought this was a beautiful tradition.

When I returned in 2015 , Aziz was still there, but he retired shortly after. I was just beginning to develop my programming at camp, and I knew Aziz’s absence would leave something of a hole in Scatico culture. The kids were just beginning to understand my love of philosophy and embrace it, and I felt a calling to try and step into Aziz’s role as camp mystic, to honor something that felt like part of the special sauce of Camp Scatico. And to my surprise it started to feel right. I know I am very different from Aziz, but the philosophy program at camp would not exist without the seeds he planted.

As my daughter prepares for her last camper summer I am also mindful of how much camp has helped Dusty, Poppy, and I to have the unique experience of discovering who we are as a family.

In my work outside of camp as an artist and educator I am often advocating from an eccentric viewpoint, looking for ways to support educational environments where people can discover who they are. And this can be uncomfortable. Sometimes people look at me as if I am speaking in riddles. And thanks to the influence of late great Aziz Kommel, sometimes I do.