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			Jane Ralph January 2010 - Featured Alum What years were you at camp? I attended PLYC from 1970-1985. What tents were you in? Cherokee, Sioux, Boothill (Oh No!), Gettysburg, Atlantus, Buccos. What tents were you in? Cherokee, Sioux, Boothill (Oh No!), Gettysburg, Atlantus, Buccos. What job did you have as staff member? Counselor of Boothill and Vikings, Swimming Director, Tripping Director, Spiritual Emphasis Director with forays into landsports and boating while also counseling. What are you doing now? I live in Vermont where my sister -Peggy (Ralph) Horne agrees that every day is like being at camp. Its kinda true! While we don't often create songs about the day to day realities, we do have a strong sense of shared vision, community, fun, - in other words, increasing in wisdom, stature, favor with God and humanity are still central. My partner, Ellen and I value those things along with other camp like values -sharing meals, swimming, boating, crafts -those "On the Loose" values -really, not alot has changed! My paid work is as Executive Director of The Clarina Howard Nichols Center -an organization dedicated to ending sexual and domestic violence. There we do occasionally create songs about the day to day crazy, heartwarming (and breaking) realities of our work. That and a button maker are great antidotes to the challenges of facing family violence every day. I am also a lutheran pastor and exercise that in a largely non-institutional way. I am also a Zen Buddhist and practice yoga -which are often as invigorating and challenging as morning dip! What about your camp experience has influenced you the most? Where to start? Definitely the value of shared experience -community building, I guess - and collective opportunities for activities, reflection, stretching one's personal experience and getting out of the box one's home town may have presented. Also incredible leadership opportunities! I can't tell you how many times I have spoken of this early opportunity for leadership, responsibility and -most importantly- gathering around a strong mission in job interviews, sermons and staff meetings. I have no doubt that the spiritual emphasis through Raggers, Phantom's mission & the Square, opportunities to plan and lead worship contributed greatly to my sense of call to ordained ministry -as well as a rather out of the institutional box approach to it. I also can't say enough about how Riley's songs in the morning contributed to my love of popular culture! The theme song from Greatest American Hero remains on my top 10 list. I want to come back to community building because it sounds so bland but is really the stuff of life. Since Phantom -and largely because of it- I gravitate toward the Zen Buddhist and Benedictine values of hospitality. I have spent alot of time working in homeless shelters and our current offices are in our domestic violence shelter and that idea of welcoming the stranger who leaves as a guest with many gifts to impart is huge -and it came from staff training and each session of camp, and continues to drive home the notions laid out in "The Little Prince" -it is only with the heart that one can see rightly and that it is the time wasted on our friends that add value to our lives. Is there anyone from camp to which you'd like to say hello? So many! Though being Carol Hoye and Ted Anderson's friend on Facebook has gone a long way toward connecting. Of course I want to say hi to any Boothill or Vikings campers past or present. Boothill is really neat -and well, Vikings -what more can be said? So Kristen Edgar -with whom we wrote the classic, "Boothill is really neat", the traveling Vikings who took bike, canoe and craftshop trips, those counselors and staff who so influenced me -Cow & Sully, Susan McDonald, Lottie, Barb Burns, Bob Holloway and those who I wonder where they went and what they did -Jim Hynds, Crazy Dan, Sybill Woodruff and campers too numerous to mention. Would you like to share your email addresses? janeralph@yahoo.com
			Mark Kindler February 2010 - Featured Alum What years were you at camp? I first came to PLYC for weekend campouts w/ Indian Guides in the mid ‘70s. I was at resident camp from 1980-1988. Thanks Mom & Dad! What tents were you in? ‘80 – Brigadeers w/ Mike Rule & SDP Tracy Cleveland (I wish they all could be Brigadeers…) ’81-’82 – Vikings w/ Joe ‘Mama’ Murphy (so hip, he slept on the floor) What job(s) did you have as staff member? As an SDP, I got to work at just about every activity. Highlights were land sports w/ Joe Diedrich, anything at the waterfront, theater, and archery. I loved working together to come up with creative PA announcements for all of the above. I counseled in several different tents – mostly the little guys. I always enjoyed being a part of their first experience at Phantom. I do have to admit we had some pretty good fun in Vikings at co-ed ’86, though. I think just about every one of those guys returned as an SDP the following summer. I worked in the kitchen during girls’ camp that same summer and had a blast seeing camp from another perspective. My last two summers were spent as SDP Director with Joelle Horn (’87) and Joan Brady (’88). I loved everything about it – the silliness, the creativity, the growth, the camaraderie, the good times and bad. It’s still the best job I’ve ever had. What are you doing now? I live in Brookfield, WI with my wife, Kathy, and three boys – Tom(12), Ben(9) & Andrew(4). Tom and Ben are avid PLYC campers and Andrew can’t wait for Mag 7s. Right now, we’re all about sports, scouts, music, theater and everything that comes with having a young family. In addition to coaching and being a scout leader, I’ve also spent some time playing drums with a couple of area bands. At work, I’m a Financial Advisor with Robert Baird & Co. where my team has been providing comprehensive wealth management solutions for the past 17 years. I’m also blessed to have some of my childhood heroes as regular, ‘grown-up’ friends. To Tracy Cleveland, Joe Diedrich, Geoff & Riley Cooper, Sir G, Mike Rule, and a few others I’m probably forgetting – I hope to see you soon. What about your camp experience has influenced you the most? The first thing that comes to mind is recognizing the value of true friendship -- the kind that accepts you for you – and lasts forever. Camp was always a safe place to try something new and get out of your comfort zone. It’s as though there was a giant, invisible safety net that gave you the confidence to try anything. Raggers was very important to me – it gave me the first real opportunity to think deeply about who I wanted to be in this world. Giving your first taps talk, doing a side of the square, leading songs, creating PAs, staff shows, criers, teaching, listening, learning – these things all shaped my values and gave me the confidence to pursue life to the fullest. Is there anyone from camp to which you'd like to say hello? * Sybil Woodruff (Camp Nurse and neighbor) – thanks for taking me to camp the first time! * Mike Rule – I couldn’t have asked for a better first counselor. I still tell my kids (and scouts) the story of the Purple Passionate Gorilla on a regular basis. * Chris Gibes – the man, the hat, the smile. Miss you, bud. * Ted Anderson, Charlie Russell, Tracy Cleveland & Joelle Horn -- thanks for giving me a chance to be an SDP, guiding me along the way, and preparing me to return the favor to future SDPs. * Thanks to Joe Diedrich – a funnier, wilder and more genuine guy, there will never be. * Kim Zim, Debbie Simmons & Kate Rajeck – the ’87 Mythical Unit really was the ultimate place to be, because of you guys. * Joan Brady & Joelle Horn – You were the best co-directors a guy could possibly have. * Hello to all of my amazing campers – I hope you kept your rooms as clean as we kept our tents (in your face ’86 Boot Hill ladies) * Hello to my fellow Ghostbusters, BoDeans, Top Gun gang and all other hilarious crier crews * To my many awesome SDPs -- I learned more from you than you’ll ever know. I love and miss you all. Unforgettable memories that didn't fall into any other category? Riley’s Sweet Roll skit (stop laughing Kris Trayser), Going into the BCC for the first time, Slow songs, Fast songs, Planning the Kindler Kourse w/ Sir G (thanks for the sign Slim), Kitchen raids (sorry Lady Sue), Moonlight swims, Imitating Indo Joe in the SDP skit, Helping Coop dance like MJ for the crier, Thinking of songs w/ the word “love” in it while waiting out the storm in the dining hall, Talking all night in the riflery shack, Order of the barking dogs, Taking funny tent pictures, Practical jokes (of the harmless variety), Trying to windsurf w/ Jaye Playter, Caroling at houses around the lake at winter camp, Playing squeeze murder, Sledding on campfire hill, Every single kettle game - ever, Jesus on the chimney, John Denver’s Friends on the last morning, and the best hugs anywhere. Would you like to share your email addresses? mkindler@rwbaird.com I’m also on Facebook. I’d love to hear from you!
			Joe & Jean Diedrich - 2% Club March 2010 - Featured Alum What years were you at camp? Joe: Camper/SDP: 1976-1981; Staff: 1981-1990. When I came in for my AC interview in ’81, Sir G said, ‘Joe, I never thought I’d see this day.’ I responded, ‘Sir G, neither did I.’ I was an AWFUL SDP and thanks to the staff, time and self-inflicted bad experiences, I grew up. Jean: I was never a camper at PLYC but I did serve on staff for Girls Camp and 2nd Coed the summer of 1987 and 1988. I also served as the Tripping Director for Girls Camp and 2nd Coed the summer of 1990. What tents were you in? Joe: Camper: Adventure unit (Buccos & Vikings). Staff: All of the units at least once. The Molemen (Seminole) I stole from an episode of Spiderman. It made no sense at all, but everyone seemed to take to it. What job(s) did you have as staff member? Joe: Land Sports & Craft Shop. Some of the more memorable (albeit not strenuous) events were Frisbee golf & suntan day at Land Sports. We had the Craft shop song to the tune of ‘Working in the Coal Mine’. Again, it made no sense, but the hook was infectious. Jean: While on counseling staff, I took turns serving as Land Sports Director, Arrrrrchery Director, Riflery Director, and Waterfront staff (Lifeguard). My last summer, I did not counsel but served as the Tripping Director for the second half of the summer. Tell us your 2% story? (Jean's perspective) The summer of 1987 was my first year at Phantom. I had just finished counseling 8 year old girls in Laredo tent for 3 weeks when I was told that my next assignment was to counsel the oldest teen tent for a Coed session in Boot Hill—Oh no! I was not looking forward to this change, but on the first evening of the session, with bad weather in the forecast, the camp assembled in the lodge for a taps talk led by a very charismatic and motivational speaker—Joe Diedrich. I had not met nor been introduced to Joe yet, but we were counseling the oldest tents that week. He talked about love and how at camp, and in life, you should never be afraid to tell someone that you love them, even if you are a male speaking to a male. Well, that speech touched me to the point of approaching this man when the oldest tents were using the bathrooms before bed. I simply introduced myself and asked him for a hug because of his great speech. He obliged. Throughout the week, we had many opportunities to do activities together with our tents culminating in the canoe trip down the Fox River. I think Slim Gillin may have been co-counseling with Joe. He, of course, was instrumental in “pushing us” together. At the end of that session, I remember Joe finding me and giving me a dozen red roses and asking me to marry him (jokingly). I told him to give me three years to finish college and to get rich in the meantime and I would consider it. We kept in contact in the off-season and began dating in May of 1988. We got engaged on the anniversary of the moon walk, July 20,1989, and were married on July 14, 1990 What are you doing now? Joe: Selling advertising for Old Cars Weekly Magazine & Oldcarsweekly.com. Someday I hope to arrange for Ted Anderson to ride in a vintage car at a show I attend. I’m working on it, Ted!!!! Jean: “Indo Joe” and I will have been married 20 years this July. We live in Plover, Wisconsin (North of Madison 100 miles or 165 miles from camp). Since my last summer on staff at camp, I have been a stay-at-home Mom, Science and Math teacher, Home School teacher, Substitute teacher, and Driver Education teacher. My hobbies have involved animals and nature. I am very active with the Izaak Walton League, a conservation club. We own 2 dogs, 3 rabbits, 4 birds and a bunch of fish (sounds like a Christmas song!). Our dogs have undergone or will undergo various service training exercises to be of use to the community. Keesha, our 6 year old mixed breed dog is a Therapy dog; she can go to hospitals, nursing homes, and schools. Currently she goes to two grade schools in our area per week to listen to children read to her. She loves it! Our other dog, Marteenie, also a mixed breed dog, has more desire to run agility courses. She will be 2 in April so we will be getting more involved with agility soon. Joe and I have produced 3 children. Our oldest, Jameson, will be 19 in June. He has spent many glorious years at Phantom both at summer camp and winter reunions. He plans on pursuing a photography career in Madison. Jeanna, our middle child, will be 17 this spring. She is a Junior is High School. She is enjoying driving herself to school and is looking into a career in Math or Spanish—possibly teaching (just like her parents). Jeanna has also spent many glorious years at Phantom at winter reunion and Girls camp—go girls! Joseph is 10 and in the 4th grade. This summer will be his 4th year at Boys Camp at Phantom. We still have not managed to get more than one child to be at a camp session at the same time! Joseph is a pretty easy going kid who likes intellectual things. What about your camp experience has influenced you the most? Joe: The ability to make friends easily; something I hadn’t been able to do as a kid for a variety of reasons. Originally, I didn’t want to be there but, due to the death of my older brother in ’74, my late mother thought it would be a good experience. Another in a long line of great decisions I didn’t make, proving again that I don’t know what’s good for me. Jean: Everything about camp influences us in our lives today. Raising children, sales, teaching, and dealing with the world around us is all a little easier with the “camp spin” on things. When we put our kids to bed (now just Joseph), we sometimes “face the lake” and sing By Old Phantoms and think of our times at camp. I have always enjoyed the fact that we can openly talk about God and the Christian way to act at camp. I believe that children and staff alike develop better habits and actions after attending even just one camp session. Is there anyone from camp to which you'd like to say hello? Joe: Everyone (staff & campers) from 1976-1990. I always wondered what ever happened to Fuzz (Frezell Brown), Maduka Steady and Tim Genrich. Fuzz was a counselor of mine & Maduka and Tim were campers in my tent at one time. They were three of the most amazing people I’ve ever met. There was also a camper who had a cleft lip & palate and was very undersize who won the MVP of the Land Sports flag football game as voted on by the campers. My youngest son was born w/ a cleft lip & palate so that camper remains unforgettable. Jean: I stay in touch with past/present staff well enough by attending reunions and dropping kids off at camp sessions, but any camper or staff member attending camp the summer of 1987, 1988 or 1990 gets a special “hello” from me. Would you like to share your email addresses? We both use: Jx5@charter.net Joe: Also look me up on Facebook. I’m fatter & balder; other than that I look about the same.
			Barb Gutting Cleveland & Tracy Cleveland - 2% Club April 2010 - Featured Alums What years were you at camp? Barb: 1972-1979, 1981-1985, 1987 and 2006 Tracy: 1971 - 1986 What tents were you in? Barb: Sioux, Gettysburg, Atlantus, Olympus, Vikings and Brigadeers. Tracy: I can't think of one tent I WASN'T in! All of them, Sioux thru Buccaneers. What job(s) did you have as staff member? Barb: Counselor of Laredo for 12 tents, Admiral and Nurse. Tracy: Counselor, Swimming, Boating, Sailing Director, Kitchen Staff and SDP Director. What are you doing now? Barb: I've been married to Tracy for 21 wonderful years and mother to 3 girls (all current campers). I live in the completely cool City of Waukesha. Tracy: I am doing the same stuff as Barb (except I am the dad) and I work as the director of Materials Services for Children’s Hospital and Health System (Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin). I enjoy triathlons, cycling, marathons, family camping. I am an active volunteer for First United Methodist Church of Waukesha, Montessori School of Waukesha and the School District of Waukesha What about your camp experience has influenced you the most? Barb: I learned balance in life, love for the outdoors and the joy of interesting travel including a one-speed bike trip from PLYC to Whitewater Lake; road trip to South Dakota over 48 hours in a 1970s Suburban and European back packing on $5 a day. Tracy: Camp was a touchstone that helped to keep a Christian focus for me. It was always great to see a friend from camp during the year because you could immediately return to the spirit of camp, wherever you were. The friendships made at camp are some of the most enduring. There is something about the intensity that hardens and solidifies the relationship. Tell us your 2% story? Barb: Our relationship has grown out of camp friendship and shared values; the big "aha" for me was came in Munich, Germany when I was deciding whether or not to invest in lederhosen for Tracy. Tracy: It wasn't really an "aha" moment, it was more like a long distance event. After I moved back to Wisconsin, I sought out Barb's company. As time went on we became constant companions; along with Charlie Russell and Dave Shavlik...and after a great deal of persistence, I finally grew on her enough that she missed me on her trip to Germany. Is there anyone from camp to which you'd like to say hello? Barb: Whoever reads this page including the Chuck Tuna swimmers and Yolanda Cozijn. The Cleveland Family is going down under next year and I would love to see you. If you read this or if anyone knows your whereabouts, please let me know. Tracy: All my counselors, campers and folks I had the pleasure of knowing at PLYC. Would you like to share your email addresses? We both use: hcleveland@wi.rr.com
			Kate Rajeck May 2010 - Featured Alum What years were you at camp? Let’s just call it the 80’s- camper, SDP, staff! What tents were you in? Vikings with Jane Ralph and Carol Hoye Hoye and Buccos What job(s) did you have as staff member? As a CIT, LIT and AC I worked the activity circuit and found many reasons to hang out in the SDP office with Tracy Cleveland, Joelle Horn, Mark Kindler, and Jooooan Brady. An SDP was also required to log long night hours in the back CC and participate in SDP night out- hello Summerfest and Wisconsin State Fair! SDP retreats and winter camp were great ways to make it between summers and spend time with friends from far away places; Kennan Wood (Madison) and Patricia Brady (Cincinnati) to name a few. After completing the SDP program I was offered the Craft Shoppe Director position and I jumped at it- a “cool” place to be (literally and figuratively). I quickly learned that during boys’ camp I needed to stock the place with plaster (to shoot at riflery) and girls’ camp was all about the hippy bracelets. We kept the scene lively with tunes from local favorites (Violent Femmes, BoDeans) and hosted a sleepover night for one lucky tent each session. My legacy included turning the Shoppe’s first profit and only starting one small candle making fire. As a girls camp counselor I was part of the mythical unit female triumvirate with Kim Zim and Debbie Simmons. We had a great unit song and my favorite time was unit night where we utilized our master chef skills to cook hot dogs and s’mores over an open fire we had to build ourselves. I also participated in a few (maybe) memorable Criers- Big Butts, Candy Girls and the Breakfast Club. What are you doing now? After spending the last 8 years in Boston I just recently relocated back to the San Francisco area with my husband Jed and daughter Cali (2). Camp songs came in handy as lullabies and entertainment for a colicky baby and I still sing Taps and By Old Phantom to Cali every night. Currently my days are spent working at an internet security company communicating with investors. When I have free time I love to play golf, tennis and read. (not at the same time) What about your camp experience has influenced you the most? My time at Phantom taught me so much, a few highlights would be: Friendship: the opportunity to make so many lifelong friends in such a special fun environment. Leadership: the challenge to take part in helping campers and fellow staff members find their spirit and passions. Compassion: coming together as a community to create a safe and wonderful place- particularly to support those that need camp the most. I will always have a special place in my heart for the great state of Wisconsin and her people! A Few Random Memory Musings... Sitting on the Lodge porch Why do marsupials carry their babies in their tummy pouch? Morning dance tunes (great idea) Prunes from the government on the dining tables (not as great idea) Michael Jackson inspired PA’s “PFD- pretty orange thing” and “Why don’t you come down to nature” Watching the Olympics in the back CC CIT tent mascot “construction blinky” Paul Doubleday’s microphone roving morning cry “Get UP UP!” Living in the Hilton “The” Brewers game Your momma don’t wear no socks Is there anyone from camp to which you'd like to say hello? Too many to mention but I would like to say that “Friends I will remember you, think of you, pray for you. And when another day is through, I’ll still be friends with you.” You know who you are!! Would you like to share your email addresses? Kate_Rajeck@yahoo.com or Facebook, baby!
			Patrick "PeeWee" Carroll June 2010 - Featured Alum What years were you at camp? I first arrived at Phantom for a Boys Camp session in the early summer of 1987. I don’t remember exactly when my last summer on staff would have been, but I am guessing that it was 1995. I won’t say it was my FINAL summer, because one never knows….I just might come back sometime. What tents were you in? Never was a camper at Phantom, but without a doubt Cherokee was my haven. What job(s) did you have as staff member? Mag Sevens Counselor Kitchen Staff Zicahota Director SDP Director What are you doing now? Besides wishing that I was on the shores of Phantom this very moment, I do have a career as a teacher in Waukesha. I also do some bartending from time to time which is probably one of my favorite hobbies. I have season tickets to the Brewers so find myself at Miller Park frequently during the summer. I live in Milwaukee and love exploring the city…it just keeps regenerating itself! Just when you think you have seen and done it all, you turn around and find so much more! I have a priceless group of friends, a devoted dog, and a house that tends to demand plenty of time. My calendar is always covered with notes and scribbles, the glass is always ¾ full (why settle for ½ a glass, afterall), and laughter is a huge part of every single day for me. I have no complaints: life really and truly is good. What about your camp experience has influenced you the most? Clearly, it was the people that influenced me the most. There are multitudes of summer camps around the country that could boast of better programming or of finer facilities. What kept me coming back for those summers - and what keeps me still connected to PLYC today - are the people. I was already in college (at Indiana University - GO HOOSIERS!) when I first came to PLYC, but the people of camp influenced me by helping me to learn. Just what did they help me to learn? Among so many other things I learned, almost by accident, that I could make a difference in others’ lives. I learned that a job well done was appreciated. That oftentimes true respect was given to you when you first gave it to others. I figured out that if you had a positive attitude and outlook, it would spread to others. I also learned that when I made hard decisions, I was not usually the only one that they were hard for. I learned that people like to be listened to. A lot. That when I didn’t understand something, it was my responsibility to try to understand. And, oh! That responsibility! As a human being, I am responsible to take care of others. I learned that people are not always fair and just….and when people aren’t fair and just? – the unavoidable (though temporary) grudges could undeniably stifle me. I learned it was important to love what I do. That spirituality does not just mean ‘church.’ I learned that ‘growing up’ does not mean that I had to put my teddy bear away. That wisdom, and stature and favor with God and Man are not just sides of a square, but admirable character traits. That Pride is a good thing. And probably one of the most important things that I learned? The best thing I can do for myself and others is to take the time to look up, and laugh, and love and lift. The list truly could continue. I could keep writing from now until this July’s All-Era Reunion and STILL not be finished. But when it comes right down to it, these things don’t necessarily matter that much. You see, what does matter is that I did have the chance to be influenced by the people of Phantom. My experiences and interactions with them helped me to become who I am today. It has made all the difference. I owe a huge amount of gratitude to so many people, but the biggest show of appreciation would be to continue spreading their influence. I can do this by my being the same type of person to others that they were to me. By doing this, the ripples they made…even after all these years…are still expanding and still influencing others today. Is there anyone from camp to which you'd like to say hello? Mike Murphy, Matt Korinko, Joelle Louise, Kindler, McSteen(s), Slim, Kennan, Cippie, My Partner in Crime (that’s Crafty Kate), Becky, Toodles, Jack & Jimmy & Jeff, Tim Geiger, Ryan Lund, Machanster, Flipper, Indiana Jay, Lady Sue, Mt. Mike, Sir G, The Bradys, Matt Nolan (My first Mag 7!), Alan, Jazz, Carole, The D’Angelos, All my former SDPs, All my former campers, 1896 Society members. Let’s Reunite at Reunion! Would you like to share your email addresses? carrollpd@aol.com
			Joelle Horn July 2010 - Featured Alum What years were you at camp? It was so long ago, but I believe I was 10 when I started camping so that would mean I was at camp from 1973 until 2007, missing a few summers in between. What tents were you in? I started as a camper in Cactus Gulch and believe I was honestly a camper in every tent along the way at some point in time until the time I was a Buccaneer that they couldn't seem to get rid of. What job(s) did you have as staff member? After being an SDP, I was a counselor for two years and then SDP director for three years. From there I was business manager for few years followed by a stint in the main office as a partial registrar. What are you doing now? After three years teaching choirs in Colorado, I returned to Waukesha here in Wisconsin where I have been ever since. I absolutely love teaching middle school choir! My students often ask what the tattoo of the phantom square means on my inner wrist. How do you possibly cover it's full impact? What about your camp experience has influenced you the most? Being an only child, the friends I made each year became like the family that I didn't have. The camp experience taught me to be well rounded and more secure in who I was prior to experiencing Phantom Lake. I have never had a chance to tell him but Sir G was definitely kind of like the father that I never had with his wisdom but gentle ways. Many people I camped and worked with for years have become closer to me than perhaps many actual siblings ever would. Is there anyone from camp to which you'd like to say hello? You can imagine that in the 34ish years that I have been around PLYC in so many roles, too many people have touched my life to just recognize a few. From the people I camped with, to the amazing staff I worked with in all facets of my life at PLYC I would wish to say hello to everyone. Would you like to share your email addresses? joloho8994@aol.com
			Geoff Cooper August 2010 - Featured Alum What years were you at camp? I started in 1973 and attended camp through the summer of 1979. The next summer I skipped camp, choosing instead to coach little league baseball and work at Elliott’s Diner. I hadn’t planned on returning to camp but Mike Rule called in late July 1981 (right after I turned 17) and asked if I’d be willing to counsel a tent in the Indian Unit. I asked “When?” He said “Next week!” I did it, loved it, and returned to camp every summer through 1986. I returned again for one last shot in 1989. What tents were you in? I remember Boot Hill with Pecca (from Finland), Gettysburg with Jeff Bennett (from Australia, I think) and Buccos twice with Fuzz. All my counselors were great. What job(s) did you have as staff member? I worked the Rifle Shack and Craft Shop (with Indo Joe) for a few summers, but I spent most of my time on the Athletic Field trying to get kids to come down and play “new” games, such as our own brand of Australian Rules Football, Frisbee Football and, of course, lots of Soccer. In 1986, I was SDP Director with Joelle; and in 1989 I took a week off of work from my “real” job as a newspaper reporter to counsel in the Indian Unit with Pee Wee. What are you doing now? Somehow I transformed from being a “kid” beat reporter covering the Brewers and Bucks to today serving as Director of the state’s Single-Family mortgage revenue bond program. During that 25-year span, I enjoyed a 15-year career at MGIC in corporate and investor relations, risk management, and emerging markets product development. I am married to Angela and I have been blessed with my daughters Amanda and Alexis and my son Braydon. We have a 3-year-old Lab-Beagle mix named Peyton (he looks like a Black Lab puppy!). Somewhere along the line I picked up a love for basketball. I’ve been a youth basketball coach for a decade now; I often travel to attend basketball clinics; and I have coached at the AAU level. What about your camp experience has influenced you the most? I think camp taught me that “I could.” I could achieve if I tried; I could form relationships if I invested in them; I could let go if I had faith … I think for many young men, the teenagers years are filled with the message “You can’t.” Camp sent a directly opposite message and, if anything, emboldened me for life. Is there anyone from camp to which you'd like to say hello? There are so many people I wouldn’t know where to begin. Many of us have connected through Facebook and I read your posts and try to keep up that way. If there is any one person, however, it would have to be Mike Rule. Thanks for calling me back to camp 29 years ago Mike! Would you like to share your email addresses? Feel free to email me at tablejumper@yahoo.com
			Meghan & Geoff Blake-Horst September 2010 - Featured Alums - 2% Club Members What years were you at camp? M: 1981-1989 Camper 1990-1992 SDP 1993-2000 Staff G: 1984-90 Camper 1991-94 SDP 1995-2000 Staff What tents were you in? M: I was in each of the tents that were on top of the hill (when the Indian Unit was still there). I never was down the hill until I was a counselor. Then I spent most of my years in Buccos. I did get the chance to counsel Cherokee once it was built in the Kettles. G: I was in Apache first and then Spartus for 3 or four years. My favorite tent ended up being Shiloh. I liked the shade and talking with friends between the two units. What job(s) did you have as staff member? M: I was the Gymnastics Director and also worked at Boating. G: Riflery, Landsports, Special Ops, Kitchen…and others What are you doing now? We live in Madison and are proud members of the 2% Club. We have two kiddos of our own: Dylan (7 yrs) who spent his first summer as a Mag 7 at PLYC and Harper (4 yrs) who will be at camp soon. M: We live close to my sister’s (Alumnae Olwen and Gillian Blake) and their kids (all former or current campers) as well as many other camp folk on the near east side of Madison. I run an Art Gallery in Madison called Absolutely Art. We feature original fine art and crafts as well as affordable gifts. We purchase art from local artists and sell their work in our gallery and promote art in our community. We highlight specific artists each month with an Opening Reception the first Friday of each month. We have also been so lucky to have local musicians play at these events (including some camp folks!). G: I am currently working to get back into teaching, writing a book, playing guitar, reading and playing my latest gift from camp, disc golf. What about your camp experience has influenced you the most? M: Everything! Not a day goes by that some part of what I learned or the relationships I made does not impact my life in some manner. Without camp I would not be who I am today, have my husband or children. Without a doubt it was one of the most influential places I have had the honor to be a part of. G:Camp helped me find a place in the world after a very troubled part of my life. It has provided people, a place, and a sense of perspective when I have needed it most throughout the years. As a 2% club member, I have daily gifts from camp. With our children, Meghan and I approach parenting in a similar way as a result. It is also wonderful to smell the air on a fall or summer day, mention it, and know that the other person understands. Is there anyone from camp to which you'd like to say hello? M: I would love to say hello to Diana Schoberg (Dirty D), Sarene Schumacher, Juliette Grahm and all those I have not seen in years but still think of you so often! Also, I would like to say thank you to the All Era Alumni Reunion committee. It was a pleasure working with you and getting to know you all better. G:Jocelyn Burr, Shawn Weiler, Mark Tuura, Lauren DeAre, Laura Lincoln, Martin Gustafson, Ben Shaw and many others. Would you like to share your email addresses? geghan@gmail.com meghan@absolutelyartllc.com
			Al & Kevin Petajan October 2010 - Featured Alums What years were you at camp? Al: l was on staff at PLYC from 1952 thru 1956. Kevin: I started somewhere around 1980 or 1981 as a camper. I was in the SDP program from 1987–1990 and was a staff member until about 1991-2. What tents were you in? Al: l wasn't a camper. Kevin: My tents as a camper were Cherokee, Shiloh with Mitch, Gettysburg, among others. What job(s) did you have as staff member? Al: In 1952, I was Vice Admiral at the Waterfront. My brother, Jack, also worked at the waterfront at that time. From 1953 thru 1956, I was Admiral at the waterfront. Kevin: My jobs were working at the Waterfront and Craftshop. I always enjoyed teaching sailing and windsurfing to campers. The “a-ha” moments were awesome! A few of the great people I worked with at the waterfront were Brenda Burkhalter, Katie, Flossie Howell, and Pat McSteen. At Craftshop, Becky Greco was always an inspiring person to work with. What are you doing now? Al: I'm a retired attorney and now spend my time in Kewaunee, Wisconsin with my wife Sylvia, working on various sailboat and house restoration projects. Our two beagles keep us busy as well. Kevin: I'm a motion graphic designer for Plum Moving Media in Milwaukee. In short, I create animation, graphics and visual effects for broadcast media and the web. I also have an unrelenting interest in environmental issues and energy efficiency/renewable energy. I'm married to Adie and have two great kids, Isabella(7) & Charlie (4). We live in Milwaukee, close to Lake Michigan. We hope to get them involved in camp soon. What about your camp experience has influenced you the most? Al: The importance of teamwork. Kevin: The friendships and peer-to-peer working relationships were great influences. I also found that you can learn a lot from campers as well. Those experiences have helped me as I've moved forward in life with my family. Is there anyone from camp to which you'd like to say hello? Al: There are too many to name and, at my age, the names fade. Kevin: A big “Hi” to everyone! Thanks! Would you like to share your email addresses? Kevin: Feel free to email me: kevin@meridianmedia.net
			Chris Konieczka November 2010 - Featured Alum What years were you at camp? Camper 1994-97 SDP 1998-99 Staff 2000-01 What tents were you in? 94-Boot Hill with Pudd and Bear 95-Atlantis with Sean Weiler and Honey thing (Tim Lindl) 96-Buccos with Sean Weiler, Ian Gatley, and Graeme Mair (ging gang gooly gotcha!) 97-Shiloh with Geoff Horst and Joe Wong What job(s) did you have as staff member? Usually Tripping, land sports, or outdoor adventure. Also, hanging out with the kids that were too cool for organized activities. The best was just being a counselor for the tent. Older boys or younger boys. For me an 11 or 12 year old boy was the least desirable age. What are your favorite camp songs? I seem to have a thing for the call and response songs, especially 'Way down yonder not far away' and 'an Austrian went yodeling' (add in the oboe honk). I love most of the slow songs, but I'll name 'Close your eyes' and the Sesame Street cover 'I don't want to live on the moon'. What are you doing now? For work, I'm an assistant manager for a small scale organic vegetable farm in the Coast Range of Oregon. Besides that, I am reading, hiking, raising chickens, and learning to fly fish. Trying to use a Master's Degree in Horticulture somehow. If you've got access to that Agricultural Extension or farm management job, then hook it up, uh, please. What about your camp experience has influenced you the most? I'd say all the reverence for the flag and the military wake-up call. Psych! Really though, it was probably the freedom to 'be myself', that is, act like a goofball and have it be ok, whatever others thought. Still working on that. I was also impacted strongly by the self-reflection and quiet of the Raggers program. Singing songs at all times of the day has stayed with me. I think that national morning music could be the ticket to turning things around. Is there anyone from camp to which you'd like to say hello? Thanks to everyone who contributed to all the growth experiences I had as a camper and staff member. Sarene – You were my first camp crush as my Earth Wonders counselor. The razor of doom still scares me. Georgina McKee, are you out there? Oregon is all into the Shakespeare festival in Ashland and it makes me think of you. Trisha Gonwa Erica Smyth – Thanks for sending me to Cadbury World All the members of Model Oil Cartel Would you like to share your email addresses? chriskonieczka@gmail.com
			Winkler-Fanshaw Family (Jessie Fanshaw, Sally Williams Winkler, Robin Fanshaw) December 2010 - Featured Alums What years were you at camp? Sally Williams Winkler: 1950-1955 Sally's Father attended camp in the 1930's) Robin Fanshaw: 1969-1975 (Sally's daughter) Jessie Fanshaw: 2001-present (Robyn's daughter, not an alumna yet, but will be :-) What tents were you in? Sally: Wildcat? Robin: So many…I do remember Buccaneers. Jessie: Too many to count….Tombstone, Antietam, Mariners, Cherokee, Seminole. What job(s) did you have as staff member? Sally: Boating Instructor, Tent Counselor, Canoe Trip Leader Robin: I came as a camper only. What are you doing now? Sally: I am a retired elementary school teacher. Robin: I am an office manager for a trade association. I run the office and plan the annual golf outing and annual convention. Jessie: I am a student. What about your camp experience has influenced you the most? Sally: The freedom to BE. It was an opportunity to learn new skills, grow close to God…The Phantom Spirit! Robin: I think being at camp taught me to be who I am no matter what others think of me. Jessie: Gaining the confidence to be myself and not be afraid of what others think of me. Is there anyone from camp to which you'd like to say hello? Sally: Sue McFarlane Hoeppner, Bert Hicken Schmidt, Anne Prideman Southcott Robin: I just love Sir G! He always made me feel special. Favorite memories? Sally: I have many fabulous memories of Phantom because the friends I went to camp with are STILL close friends (more than 60 years later!). Most of them involve mishaps…enjoy: - One night the horses (which the camp doesn't have anymore) got loose. I was on my way to the White Palace half asleep late at night, I walked right into the side of one. - One Visitors' Day (which they also don't have anymore) when I was showing off by sailing quite close to the pier at the old boating dock and a gust of wind caught the sail and tipped us over in front of a crowd. My rank was Captain, which used to be the top waterfront rating, and I was pretty full of myself. That stunt should have put me back to ABC (the lowest rank of Able Bodied Seaman)! - I remember going on a canoe trip on the Rock River when I was only 16 but a full-fledged counselor, as there was no CIT or LIT program. You went from a camper at age 15 to staff at age 16. I was in charge. The camp put us in the river with instructions as to where to camp that night. We were looking for landmarks, such as a large rock in the middle of the river. What they didn't tell us (and probably didn't know) is that the river had risen about 5 feet and all the landmarks AND the camp ground itself were underwater and we never saw them. We just kept paddling until it got quite late (and dark) and we finally put in at a tavern on the river where I called camp and they had to come and get us, as the whole trip was ruined! ...the list goes on...Good Times! Good Times! Would you like to share your email addresses? Sally: salwinkler@aol.com Robin: rfanshaw@charter.net