Read our memories....
We would love it if you would
add your memories to this page! Due to excessive internet spamming, if you want to add to the memories, please email jrussell@thundercom.net and it will be added manually.
I was at Arcady from 1956-58 or 59, can't remember. But they were some of the best years of my life, even the week I spent in Ticonderoga Hospital to get my appendix out in 1956. I haven't seen any "memories" from my contemporaries during those years. I knew Chuck and Beth Lowenstein from South Orange.
Tex Williams and Jimmy Chanko
I saw a picture on the site with Bob Sylvor, who was my counselor for 2 years, and David Bergman, who was in my bunk. I also saw a photo from Mike Berger, who I think I remember, of some of us getting ready to water ski on the dock, and I think I see me and Jimmy Chanko, who I knew from S. Orange and who asked my about this site.
I remember my other counselor, Jeff Green, and my bunkmates, Dave Bergman, Peter Hammond, Ed Goldin and his bro Barry, Burt Green and I'm trying to think of others, but it's still a blank. Also remember cha cha'ing every night with Harriet Fried (on whom I had a big crush), at the social hall, Karen and Barbara Berland, Barbara Cohen. Damn, I wish I had more names - it's been 50+ years.
Memories: the cold, clear water of beautiful Lake George with its paddle wheel boats whose wakes we jumped while water skiing; Jules Abromovitz playing the piano and singing "George Washington Bridge" and "Okay, Lady", and what an incredible athlete he was as well; the nice bunks and the Waterhouse (?) where we were as seniors and CIT's (was I also a waiter?); Ed and Bernie; Chris Connor singing "Miser's Serenade" over the loudspeaker (still have her album and listen to it occasionally); the Sagamore; Lake George Village; Saratoga Racetrack where we'd go as CIT's (or waiters) on our days off; Ed and Bernie. I'm sure there are more, and I'll think of them tonight.
Anyway, thanks for keeping the site and posting this. I live in Ojai, CA.
Tex Williams
texw@yahoo.com
My old boyfriends Mike Levine from Newburg became professional in the field of music...google/also Robert Improta-a popular plastic surgeon and me Francy Stoller///google my poems/or twitter or look at MT husband's webs side wwwfortgang.com. Stephen Stoller/no relation to the Strollers from camp/any other professional artists. I'm across the Lake now/anyone in the area call 518 499 2104/for picnic----I starred in The Play anout the stranded woman on the phone/the rec Hall was my stage/Bells Are Ringing/ socials/I was there when they lifted by air four lil' boys who were blown up by the Nature counselor/I was a CIT/OFFICE GIRL /Bernie let me know that I was special but in retrospect I think he was lying.. I talked to Bob Brandt/and Jerry Sunshine/Robin Fein Elson/people never did want to be near me except my friends Moose/the Hayes Bros./ and people I can't remember/John The Baptist from Schenectady/I hope this is good enough for the tread/the City/ and a Big REIGHOFFER chocolate chip cookie. -Francystoller@aol.com
I was at Camp Arcady from about 1958-1964 - and remember almost everyone who has written. My brother Michael and sister Janet also went and Janet sent me the link which she found one day surfing the web. Several years ago I reconnected with Karen Stein (now Engel) who was my best friend - and though we had lost touch for about 30 years, we have now seen each other at least once a year. She and her husband Bobby live in Toronto - they have two grown children and two adorable twin grand-daughters. My husband and I have a 12 year old who is about to spend her first summer at sleep away camp in Maine. Would love to hear from folks - especially Dick and Beth Lowenstein, and Nathalie Kuznetz who wrote one of the memories. I hope Ed is still thriving. My Dad is 85 aand still plays golf four days/week.
Fondly, Carol Bernstein
(carol.bernstein@nyumc.org)
July 15, 2009
Dear Campers,
I just started my nostalgia trip this year. Born 1943 and now 66 years old, 4 of us "kids" from the old neighborhood (Snowdon) in Montreal, got together after having lost touch for almost 50 years. Three cheers for the Internet! So we met on the street where we grew up and we had a weekend like no other. We were kids again, and it was as if those 50 years had never happened.
Looking back at my youth, the summers at Arcady were probably the best and most memorable of my life. I was there from 1955 to 1958, at which time I was 12, 13, 14 and 15. All my "firsts" happened at Arcady and although I could not and would not elaborate on those details here, the memories are hardwired in my gray matter and it always brings a smile to my face when I think of those summer days (and nights).
Unfortunately I cannot remember the names of my special summer friends but I remember so much of the good times. The hiking, golfing, waterfront, socials, girls... gawd, the girls! I was in love at least two or three times each summer .
I have 4 sons and I sent them all to summer camp for about 10 years when they were growing up. My 4 grandchildren are quickly approaching camp age and I'm sure they will also be campers as my children enjoyed camp as much as us Arcadians.
Billy Bucker, Montreal/Lauderdale wbucker@gmail.com
June 21, 2008 - I can't begin to express how happy I am to have found your website for Camp Arcady (ARC - see you real soon - ADY - Why, bec ause we love you, C-A-M-P: CAMP ARCADY!!!
I will never forget that little ditty.
Last week I was thumbing thru an issue of New Yorker Magazine and saw an advertisement for the Sagamore Resort. It sounded familiar so I looked it up on the web and found out it was on lake George. That prompted me to see what the status was of Camp Arcady. Sadly, I learned it has been closed and re-developed since 1970; some 40 years since I attended.
My name is Robert Lustbader. My sister (Ellen) and I attended Arcady around the years 1964 thru 1968. What an eyeopener, emotionally and visually, to see so many things/details that I had forgotten: all of the "free throw shoot-outs" with ed grossman, Bernie ball, the mass exodus to the water on those particularly hot days, color war, snipe hunts, venturing out as a CIT in the dead of night and avoiding the "night watchmen," weekly socials, canteen, the Brandt movie of the week, birdman from Alcatraz, skits, plays, London broil, the list goes on and on.
I recognize many of the faces and names and only wish I had maintained contact with them over the years.
I now live in Portland, Oregon. I have 4 children, 3 girls and one boy and have started sharing these pictures with them.
My sister, Ellen, is happily married with one son, and lives in Palm Desert, ca.
As new thoughts occur I will ad my comments and perceptions. I look forward to hearing from any of you that are interested in sharing or that remember me or Ellen. God bless you all !
I am reacheable at either rlustbader@landmarkford.com or lustbado@comcast.net
Does anybody from those years at arcady live in the wild and wooly northwest?
WOW!!! I cant believe how many memories I have from those wonderful
summers. I am so happy I stumbled on to your site. Thank you for giving
me a wonderful afternoon of old friends, pictures and thoughts of my
summers at arcady. I remember being 5 years old and my parents happily
waving goodbye to me at the bus station. With tears in my eyes and my
sister laughing, I thought I was being tortured. I believe it was the
summer of 62. Little did I know at that moment, it was a Incredible
lifetime gift they were given me. I remember eating those salamis we
smuggled in at night. How about our softball team, we weren't too bad
unless we had to play those guys in Canada , Who were they? I spent 8
years at arcady and have many fond memories. I would love to hear from
anyone that remembers Randy or my sister Candy Ross.
Randy Ross
Feb 2008 email- RRoss@RandyRossStepper.com or www.RandyRossStepper.com
to check out what I have been up to.
Camp Nurse Summer of 1969. My name is Karen and I arrived by train via Vancouver BC to Montreal and then the Delaware Hudson train to Ft. Ti. I worked in Seattle and always wished to work at a Eastern coast camp. My dreams came true when hired on as nurse for the summer. I thank the authors of the website, how wonderful to go back and reminisce. '69 had Neil Armstrong walking on the moon, the tragedy at Chappaquidic and Woodstock. Some of the counselors went to Woodstock, it wasn't my scene and when our son learned that I did not attend, he was disappointed. I told him it wasn't famous until it was over. The Crumb cakes/buns were so delicious, does anyone have the recipe? My fashion statement was pegged leg jeans and I had to visit Fort Ti and find some appropriate bell bottoms and clothes. As I walked to dinner that night, so many of the counselors cheered me on.
Drs. Manny Dubow, Gus Davis and Steve Castranano were the physicians on duty along with Lolly Wills from Chicago.
Campers got off the buses with metal lunch pails filled with allergy med, injectable allergy injections and much more. Once we cataloged them in the infirmary we never saw the kids again. We had one case of Measles and you could hear the screams of those who needed gamma globulin for protection. One of the counselors while motorcycling came too close to a concrete wall and removed much of his leg tissue and we nursed him back to health before camp was over. Oh, yes Parent's Day, Mom's and Dad's bringing boxes of junk food (probably guilt snacks) and then having the campers come in to sick bay sick from all the sugar. One of the Dad's fx his ankle while playing baseball and we placed it in a air cast and drove slowly in the old stationwagon to Fort Ti for x-ray's and treatment. Working at this camp was a delight and I have told so many stories to my husband and friends, I actually found my photo album and if anyone wants me to send photo's I will do so. Most of them I have listed names and etc. Gordon Gulitz was in to the horses so took me for a day of educating me on how to bet and learn about the four legged creatures. All day of racing plus night time carriage racing. I felt lucky I broke even for the whole day. The last day of camp was so emotional with hugs and tears and most of us didn't want to go home either. The camp setting was so gorgeous and I remember the loud thunderstorms, they were scary. Hope to hear from some of the campers or staff during that year. I just retired as a nurse this year after 40 years in the profession.
Karen Cross Halgren RN Nov 2006
khalgren@wavecable.com
Bow, WA.
I have just discovered your web page after so many years of wondering about our beloved Camp Arcady. I think I was at camp from 67-70, not sure of the dates just now. I am flooded with such fond memories. Mostly, the beauty of this camp could never be matched. I send my kids to camp in California, hoping for something close but it is never quite the same.
My camp memories are mostly about my fun and adventurous nature with a bit of rebellion to boot. Nature shack was my favorite hide out. We were always "frenching the beds" or gluing the counselours shoes to the floor. Remember the fake HUrricane in which the CITS pulled us rascals all out of bed at 3 am for a fake emergency storm. My first kiss at the flagpole. Bras and underwear on the flagpole.
The amazing thing is my life was transformed at ARCADY. I met the dancer,Helen, from the Murray Louis comp.She encouraged me in such a way , that upon returning to Great Neck that year, I pursued my love of dance and became very accomplished, as a dancer.She gave me inspiration and direction(Trio A) outdoor dance performance. I ended up with a career in medicine but I did learn discipline.
I would love to hear from anyone who may remember me. I am so far removed from my NY self that it gives me chills to hear of all the familiar names.
Thanks for your time with this effort.
Janet Kershaw(Mclennan)
I love reading the site for Arcardy, especially the old photos, my husband and I did not attend Arcady Camp but we have a very special attachment to the property. My father-in-law grew up spending summers in Hague and spent lots of time hanging around with the counselors of Arcady. He had his own boat and would come and pick up guys, and I'm sure gals, for a romp on the lake. My husband and I grew up hanging around friends whose parents bought homes in Arcady. I too remember the large building that was lakefront with apparently a stage and boxing ring inside. Wish I was old enough to notice and explore. That would have been a great building to keep. The pictures inside would be a treasure to me now. I am so sorry it was torn down. That building was next to the home my husband and I just purchased this past summer. "Dreams do come true." We are loving Arcady in a different way from all of you. We own one of the original homes and have decided to rent it out during August and September next year. We are unable to get up there at that time and feel what a better way to share the house then with people who have such a wonderful attachment up there. If you are interested our home is located on www.cyberrentals.com and look under NY then under Hague. We are also the last picture on your website, under new 2005 pictures. I don't believe we were the infirmary, as is listed on your site. I would look forward to hearing from any of you if you have any photos you would be willing to share with us for our property.
-Loving Arcady, Cathy Ehlert, Queensbury, NY cehlert63@yahoo.com
Rona Speisman sister of Donna and sister-in-law of Kenny Best. Just found out about the Web site of Camp Arcady and the memories are flooding back. Anyway to get in touch with Bobbi Lutz or Linda Fine? I was one of the Canadian (Montrealers) who came to camp during those years. There were quite a lot of us. Saul Miller, Cookie Lazarus, Howie Shiff, the Stein brothers and Karen, their sister. Marty Kerner, Marty Troster, Susan Marcus and her brother-David Shapiro who was friendly with Alan Stein. Ethel Beinhacker and her brother Ezra.Do any of you Americans remember the Montreal contingent? There were quite a few of us in those days. I will always remember my 4 years (14 yrs old until 18 yrs.) at Camp Arcady. The summer I went to another camp in 1963 I was one of the best counsellors and I owed it all to my wonderful training at Camp Arcady. No sitting in the bunk and doing our hair when Eddy Trenner came by with Bernie Cropsy in their little cart to spy on the counsellors and see if they were doing their jobs.No matter how late you came back from Dock and Dine or the Dog Team you hadbetter be up in the morning ready to be the best counsellor.What great training for life.
Rona Speisman Narvey-inarvey@vdn.ca Montreal,Canada
Unfortunately it was the tragic tour boat accident on Lake George this week that brought my thoughts back to Arcady. My sister, Sue Ann and I were campers I believe from 65-70, although 67 is the latest year book in my posession. I returned to camp probably 10 or so years ago when the construction was just about to begin on what was to become Arcady Bay Estates. I think they were asking around $75,000 for the new homes (now in the 600 to 800K range).The rec hall was still there frozen in time. Photos still on the wall opposite the post office. Who will forget watching men land on the moon on the tiny B&W TV perched on the mantle. I just came across two postcard size tickets to the 1983 reunion held at the Waldorf Astoria on May 14th at 8:00PM on the Starlight Roof. I don't recall that one but I do remember the great reunions held at the bowling alley on Time Square. While at my son's camp visiting day I told him that we used to have three little old ladies who used to come into our bunks with baskets of cleaning supplies and clean our bathrooms. Boy did we have it made then. The best memories.
Larry Goldberglargoldberg@gmail.com
Oyster Bay, N.Y.
Haven't posted in a year or visited in a while. This is time of year we left camp and went back to school, so thoughts turn towards Hague and Arcady. I remember we used to have a radio in the bunk and we would hear the AM stations from across the lake in Vermont in the morning as we made our beds. Even in July, the stores were already advertising a "back to school bo-nan-za" and we were always saying, we just got here, don't rush us.
The narrative about the accident in '67 was very moving. Thanks.
When I first found the site in March 04, had some nice email traffic with various folks.
Am now in DC/Baltimore area. Any Arcadians down here?
Adam M. Shaw
adam.shaw@cms.hhs.gov
Hello. Cary Masters here. I have only the fondest of memories of my summers at Arcady, particularly the people & the friendshipsdeveloped during those years. I feel fortunate that recently a few of my old camp mates have contacted me via email & have played catch up for the past 35+ years...I learnedmy first three chords on the guitar the summer of 1968 and have since gone on to get a masters degree in Jazz composition from the Manhattan School of Music and had made my living for 30 years playing, writing & producing music. Just one of the many experiencesat Arcady that I took with me into adulthood. I also learned to inhale cigarettes underneath the rec hall... My first kiss at the flag pole in 1967 with... (I remember that wonderful girlsname but I don't kiss & tell.) J.G. if your out there drop me a line. If anyone remembers me please get in touch: Randy Ross, Allan Elias, Eric Lieberman, Ellen Steiner, Mindy Finklestein, to name a few... In these tumultuous times it's refreshing to dabble in nostalgia and I'm thankful for the wonderful memories I have of those summers. Thank you all for being a part of my life.
Cary Masters cjvicki@msn.com
September 2005
Your website has recently provided my family with some bittersweet memories. As a result of following the postingson the site, I had a wonderful conversation with Marshall Jaffe about Camp Arcady and my sister, Marion. It was great to hear about Marion from one of her contemporaries.
To Russell Handelman: Yes, they woke my brother Mitchell and I up and whisked us home while it was still dark. I have always regretted that I never had the chance to say goodbye to everyone. While Marion's death had a dramatic and lasting impact on my entire family, I am happy to let you know that Mitchell and I (as well as my younger brother, Danny, who was too young to attend Arcady) are all happily married with children and doing well.
These postings have allowed us to talk about Marion and Arcady in a happy way, and that hasn't happened in long, long time.
I also just received a call from my cousin, Stacy Kopet-Heimlich whowas at Arcady with us. I haven't talked to her in years, and as a result of these postings, we just had a great talk.
Thanks again for the time and effort involved in maintaining the site. Your efforts have brought a smile to our faces and allowed us to remember and relieve good memories.
Matthew H. Lubart, Esq.
mlubart@foxrothschild.com
I am tearing up reading the posting from Marshall Jaffe. I was a senior that year. WE were "the senior girls of Arcady"...boom boom. Sailing our way back from a sleep over on one of those tiny little islands. Sailing along, singing at the top of our lungs, so the whole world could hear us, not a care in the world. Everything was perfect! As we approached the camp, there was absolute stillness, silence, so surreal. Bernie met us down at the waterfront. I still remember Bob Novak sailing the boat I was sitting in. I stayed in camp, for the remainder of that summer and insisted on going back, it was my therapy, I needed to go back, I wanted to be with my friends. It was my last summer. Marion's trunk sat unopened in our basement in Hewlett for many years. Arcady was my home away from home for 5 years. My first kiss, friends that I still remember (Barbie Gross, Lori Hantman, Randi Fain, Phyllis Weill, Sharon Greenwald, I could go on and on!) a flood of wonderful memories which will always be sweet. Thank you Marshall! By the way Mathew is successful Lawyer in New Jersey. And I will always miss my cousin Marion.
Stacy Kopet-Heimlich - sheimlich@hotmail.com
I appreciate Marshall Jaffe's heartfelt and beautiful reminiscence of the terrible accident in 1967. I was a Soph then, and I remember the counselors waking us up early the next morning to tell us about it. We all noticed right away that Matthew Lubart, the younger brother of Marion Lubart, was missing, and all his gear had been packed up and moved out (it must have been done quietly, and right after it happened, since nobody remembered waking up or hearing anything--when we got up, Matthew was gone and none of us ever saw him again).
Mel Shapiro was the first counselor I met when I first got off the bus, a new camper, dazed and confused and a little frightened. I remember him smiling kindly at me and leading me to my bunk, making the whole new experience of being at camp a lot easier.
For a lot of us Sophs and Sub-Sophs, it was the first time anyone we knew had died (or anyone that young), and it was a such a shock that a lot of us didn't feel like going to breakfast. To give the rest of the counselors credit, nobody made us go, and we were able to stay in and try to deal with our feelings.
Russell Handelman
This posting is dedicated to the memory of Neil Levinson, Mel Shapiro, Marty Levine and Marion Lubart, who lost their lives in a terrible accident 38 years ago this Friday; and whose memory will always be in my heart. Their yartzeit in the Jewish calendar is on the 22nd of Tammuz, which this year also falls on Friday.
I want to share with you an experience I had at Arcady, in late August of 1967. It didn't last more than a minute or so, but it is as fresh and as tangible as if it happened yesterday. I've told very few people about this moment, or the events that proceeded it. Those of you who were at Arcady that summer will understand.
On the evening of July 29, 1967, just after visiting day, I got into Neil Levinson's 1960 Dodge, along with Mel Shapiro, Marty Levine, Marion Lubart and Debbie Wolf; to go up to Dock 'N Dine for a late night snack. What we didn't know, as we turned right onto 9N, was that coming the other direction were two incredibly drunk young men doing over 90 mph. About a mile north of camp they hit us head-on, killing themselves, Neil, Mel, Marty and Marion. (Debbie was critically injured and in a coma for five weeks, before beginning a long and difficult recovery.) I suffered a severe concussion, but considering the circumstances, I was relatively unhurt. But the enormity of what had happened that night was simply too much for my 18 year psyche; and I struggled with both guilt for surviving, and grief for the loss of my friends.
After 3 days in the hospital, I returned home to Great Neck. I knew instinctively that I needed to return to this special community of counselors and campers called Arcady. Only then could I feel safe enough to begin the process of dealing with this incomprehensible loss; and the necessity to continue with my life, however irrevocably changed it would be.
My parents and family doctor insisted that I remain home; but they were no match for my unrelenting, obsessive, and single-minded goal of getting back to Arcady before the end of Summer. They finally relented. And so I found myself at the Port Authority getting on a bus to Lake George. The trip was uneventful, but once we passed Silver Bay, I moved to the back of the bus out of simple nervousness of being on that road again. We arrived at the entrance to Arcady without incident.
I stepped out of the bus. It was about 7 PM, towards the end of one of those magnificent August days. The wind had died down, and the lake was as smooth as glass. The sun was behind me, low in the sky. Arcady was lit up with an amber glow. Anyone would have stopped and admired such a perfect setting. I stood there like I was nailed to the spot, both totally in the moment and yet somehow removed from it. I was suspended in time between two very separate parts of my life: The first part - as a result of the terrible accident (and my survival) had just ended. And the next part - the process of grieving with friends, trying to comprehend why I was given the gift of a second chance, and what I was going to do with it - was about to begin. And so there I stood, motionless, perfectly balanced between one phase of my life and the other, looking out onto this idyllic scene. I really don't know how long I stood there. But gradually the moment melted away - and I walked down that beautiful road into camp.
-Marshall Jaffe
wow, what a trip. and thank-you. nothing but the best memories. i have been living in vermont since 1976, and even before that in the early 70's would go a spend a weekend up at the land, a few cabin were still around, and i still see some signs of the old place even last summer, i rode my bike by with a few friends, tennis courts, the same entrance, still brings a smile.
i would love to here from any one in our cabin, my email address is charles@AcuIndia.org, their is also a web-site there, one of the things that i have been doing since 1996. anyway, look forward to hearing from you all, hope this finds you all healthy, peace, charles
Speaking of camps...I never went to Arkady, but I'm wondering if anyone knows all the words to "Way Down South in Yankety Yank". It's about a bullfrog that at the end of the song puffs himself up until he explodes. I've seen some other versions, but they were not exactly a children song. I'd also love to have a recording of it. Anyone have any ideas?
Caro <caro957@msn.com>
Widefield, CO -
o.k....i finally figuered out i was on it...hmmm! (mechanically challenged")...i'm looking for the group of people including Bobbi Lutz and her brother Myron/ beth lowenstein/any one of around those yrs. who might remember me...certainly arcady played a major part in my life and i remember it all +all the people...the Lud of lud's shack, a sweet man, who played "sugar Blues", Carl the strangely "muscled" man who led all those swim times...Dave on banjo before Bernie....the ed's, bernie C.....etc. It was the place i learned to swim, sail, canoe...all the shows, the little theatre etc...If you remeber me feel free to get in contact..Can anyone give ed and noreen trenner's e-mail address????
dr.ellen kole <ellen.kole@rcn.com>
n.y.,, n.y. -
September 2004 - Its been 2 1/2 years since I posted my first message on the site - in the interim I've maintained a fantastic e-mail relationship with Ed and Noreen which is renewed weekly with our never-ending flow of humor. I added several pictures to this site a while back including two of the group I enjoyed "herding" around for two years in the mid-50s. Only name I remember is Ronnie Teicher but I'm sure many of you will be able to identify yourselves or others. An amazing bunch - sometimes known as the "motleys" for reasons that got us (the counselors) in trouble if it was too close to parents weekend. We often speculated that most of the kids would make terrific adults (or even 13-year olds) if they lived long enough. As a "camper-graduate" of Camp Robinson Crusoe, where Ed worked before coming to Arcady, those two places remain among my fondest memories. Too bad that neither exists today as a children's camp - I'm sure my four grandchildren would have loved either of them. Looking forward to hearing from some of you.
Mike Berger <smberg@erols.com>
Vienna, VA -
There was (electronic) talk of a reunion in Aug 04 at the Sagamore. unfortunately didn't happen. this is an excellent site, can't take it in all at once, but made me dig out my old pictures and memories.
Happy to report arrival of second child, first son Solomon Zachary Aug 3, 2004, joins big sister Emily.
A memory to share was the talent show in 1968. I played the old rickety upright piano in the little theatre and Randy Pear and Mike Landau sang "the Ballad of Bonnie & Clyde" which was a top 40 hit that year.
adam shaw
-
I wanted to know who would go to the reunion-in 1966 we were CIT's. I think it would be great. but I only remember guys and gals around my age. It would be fun, but only if you were there-thanks
Nancy Robins <ncyrb@aol.com>
NYC, N.Y. -
Camp Arcady was so full of memories that I think all of us still roam it's hills in spirit. All we have to do is close our eyes...
Jon Silver <skisherpa7@aol.com>
Boulder, CO -
Just wanted to add that Steve Shapiro came to Manhattan and visited last month. We had a great time going over memories of Arcady. Ralph Robbins we were reading your comments on the camp together as we both remember you well.
Nancy Robins <NcyRb@aol.com>
N.Y.C., N.Y. -
I also found this site by accident and had to write something since as a camper for at least three years and a waiter for one I also had quite a few lasting very good memories. Water sking in the little cove,basketball games,sneaking across the dark campus at night to meet the girls,the plays, the movies, the rope swing over the water by the boy's bunks, the dances-mix night,the waterfront activities,the morning bake goods from the pastry chef-I can still smell them. As a waiter it was much more interesting with trips to town,(in both directions),card games in the waiter's bunks,and waking to "Mountain" every morning.well that's all for now,hope I rekindled some more memories.I still pass by on our boat every summer to see the waterfront as we head towards Hauge for a day trip to the beach park from the lower Islands where we still condo-camp on the islands.
Ken Plevy <kwwp@comcast.net>
W. Orange, NJ -
Hello campers. I stumbled across this site. Waiting for a conference call to begin and thought here is a website for everything else why not one for Camp Arcady? Went to camp 1968, 1969, was a junior both years. some of our 68 juniors were promoted to inters in 69. was a psychic trauma for the rest of us to be left back. took years of therapy to get over that one.
I loved that camp, was incredible coalescing of great people, great location, great tunes. went to 2 others in Poconos 1969 through 1972 but none could compare.
bunkmates either or both years included Stu Litwin,Marc Newman, Todd Antin, Rob Raskin (ran into him later while we were both practicing law at Stroock in NY), Jeff Morgenstern, Howard Goodkin (we met up again in high school), Randy Pear, Ross Nochimson
counsellors Eric Silverstein out of Charlotte, NC, Cary Slater (Great Neck, NY), Cliff Barasch, Bob Echer, Bob Meltzer
Memories - so many hard to do triage, but how about war canoes on the lake, the tourist paddle boats coming by, trips to Rogers Rock and Fort Ti, "5 more minutes - swim", socials, first crush Emily Tucker 1968, climbing Mt. Arcady on the other side of the highway (what was its real name), camp musical in the little theater - The King and I 1969 (i had a speaking role a line or 2 while the rest of my peers were Siamese children with no lines), Freihoffer for president.
This is a great thing. Thanks for those who thought of it and maintain it.
PS whatever happened to the property? have been meaning to go back but haven't made it up there. have heard different things through the years.
adam shaw <amshaw@kpmg.com>
NY, NY -
I come back here every once in a while. My first 7 summers of life were spent at Arcady. Nothing ever compared. I was surprised to find a picture of me posted. It says it's from '67, making me 5 years old! Thank you for posting it, whoever you are. I can smell the Arts and Crafts room whenever I think of Arcady. About 20 years ago, after my parents Sid and JoAnne, divorced, mom found a bunch of old super 8 movies and had them transferred to VHS... the majority of the footage is from Arcady... I love watching it over and over. Nothing has ever topped those summers. And I wasn't even an "official" camper!!!!!!
Andrea Glassner <mermandrea@yahoo.com>
Los Angeles, CA -
The years at Arcady were magical. Last year I revisited on my way to my 35th reunion at the University of Vermont. Amazing how from the entrance...the two pillar like structures on the side of the entrance on Route 9N, everything looks the same as if frozen in time. Only when you get down to the lower tennis backboard that were on the right of the road do you see the transformation. But the docks are pretty much the same minus the "pavilion." The flagpole hill remains...and so do the memories of adolescence. Some of those memories and feelings actually remain today... as do so many others: the under/over counselor softball games, crumb buns that were made by the short chef/baker that had a hi squeaky voice, tether ball, socials, flagpole, comparing with your bunkmates who did what at flagpole, overnights on the Adirondac trail with the heavy open packs (wicker baskets) and the great dehydrated pancakes, the great feeling of beating the jocks of Brant Lake in softball or volleyball, and so many more.
Ralph Robbins <ralphrobbins@yahoo.com>
Reston, Va -
JUST STUMBLED ON THE ARCADY WEB-SITE... I WAS THERE FROM THE FIRST YEAR THAT CAMP OPENED UNTIL 1961... I WAS A CAMPER, LAUNDRY MAN, CANTEEN MAN, GROUP LEADER AND RAN THE THEATRE FOR SEVERAL SUMMERS. I MET MY WIFE DONNA SPEISMAN THERE AND WE'VE BEEN MARRIED FOR 40 YEARS.
MY SONS WENT TO CAMP KOHUT WHEN ED TOOK OVER.
I STILL GET A YEARLY LETTER FROM ED AND NOREEN.
WHEN TIME PERMITS, I'LL TRY TO JOG SOME MEMORIES.. THE YEARS AT ARCADY HELPED SHAPE MY ENTIRE LIFE AND I'D LOVE TO HEAR FROM MY OLD BUNKMATES.
KENNY BEST (BESTERMAN) <KABEST@AOL.COM>
IRVINGTON, NY -
I stumbled onto this site after putting my name into a search mechanism. What a shock when my picture appeared.I went into my childhood stuff and found the pillows my bunkmates at our end of the summer ritual. Although some of the signatures have faded the memories have not.
I was a camper from 65-67. My first year at camp my Grandfather died 3 days after my arrival at Arcady. I still remember Bernie Cropsey quietly coming to get me from the tennis courts and taking me over to a quiet spot to talk to me. I remember him dialing the phone so I could speak with my Mother and his constant eye watching over me that first year. Then the second year came. My first kiss and first boyfriend (Bruce Fabricant), Timothy Tyler the hatchet man, praying I could be the dead weight in the canoe so I would not have to row,finally managing to get arounfd the cove on water skis, sailing and managing to capsize (I think they were Lone Stars) with the counselor (I think his name was Doug and he was Canadian) screaming "get oot of the Boot", singing "I go to Arcady so pity me..." (a song that I forced my 20 year old son to learn as well as my neices and sister none of whom went to Arcady.) I remember Gary Shapiro, I think he went out with one the Epstein Girls? Salami and eggs, Friday night's Vomit chicken, always squeezing the jelly out of the jelly dougnuts.Running out of the movied scared to death by the "Spirit Is Willing", seeing "The Sons of Katie Elder", and "Cat Ballou". I painted the decorations for our Dance nights. I rememebr when we had to start wearing plum colored pants for dance night. Why plum? Snipe hunts,scavenger hunts, Smore's ,praying for a sore throat so I would not have to swim in the lake,actually having to swim in the lake for WAR, the canteen, friehoffer's chocolate chip cookies, the day my Mother sent me a training bra and the boys sang congratulations to me at dinner. I remember a wonderful place and a wonderful time in my life. Thanks for putting this website together. It's so nice to know that while Arcady is gone it is not forgotten.
Robin Beckmann <Goobergirl52@aol.com>
Old Brookville, ny -
Hi everyone,
The fact that Liz and I are reading these memories together is testiment to the friendships that were made and solidified at Arcady. We were campers there from approximately 1964 through 1970. Although I kept in touch with Andrea Ganis, Mindy Finkel and Golda Bobker for several years, we have lost touch. Liz and I would love to hear from you. It was wonderful to hear from Dennis Bernstein--who would be surprised to know that he lives about a half hour from my brother Benji, one of his favorite campers. We'll come to any reunion--we still treasure our memories of Arcady. My kids have been going to summer camp ever since they were 8 years old because I need to relive my summers at camp through them. I just taught my daughter the old Arcady cheer: We are the SENIORS, the senior girls of Arcady, ...
Mindy Buren and Liz Millner
Liz Millner and Mindy Buren <Liznkahlua@verizon.net and Mindyburen@comcast.net>
-
What a great site! Thanks, Grossmans for all the work. I spent 4 years at Arcady from 1965 to 1969. What memories :) Moose used to climb a tree and tell us that he slept there when we had camp-outs on spider island. Bernie used to take us in the Chris Craft for the camp-out. Other memories...steak dinner on Sunday nights. Fake kitchen raids and bunk raids. The hike up to the tennis courts when it was 95 degrees and there was no shade. Catching frogs in the pond past the Girl's CIT bunk. Anyone else remember all the TETHERBALL games? How freezing was the lake when we first got to camp? My family has been going each summer to Bolton Landing for a week for vacation for the last 12 years. Last time we went past the campsite, a few years ago, the stone wall on the lake was still there and painted white as it had been. I think it still says Arcady. But there weren't the beautiful flowers in front of which we took family photos each year on visiting day. The main dock was still there but the pavillions were gone. Oh, by the way, we'll have to find a different place for the reunion as the Times Square Bowling alley is long gone...Take care, Diane
Diane Katz Ziegman
Jamison, PA -
Things keep getting more and more exciting. Thanks to Nathy Kuznetz, I was able to reach Debbie Metzker. We had a LONG phone conversation, catching up with events from the last 40 years. We're planning to meet real soon. Are any of you in south Florida? I live in the Fort Lauderdale area, and would enjoy hearing from you.
Bonni Robins
-
Just wondering - the same Jeff Grossman and Ed Trenner as in Kamp Kohut in the early 1970's?
Very interested in knowing.
Jonathan Levy <beezleymgmt@yahoo.com>
Woodland Hills, CA -
This site is the greatest!! I spent a wonderful and memorable evening with Paula Moss and Donna Kaplan recently. We sang old group songs, laughed hysterically about the pranks we pulled many summers ago, and brought up names from our long lost days at Arcady. Does anyone know where Cindy Harris or Carole Kaiser are? How about Karen Blumenthal? I mentioned others in my previous comments, but have only been able to reach Jill Kulick - hopefully will see her soon. The reunion sounds great - I have answered on the form. I hope to reach more people soon. Would love to hear from anyone who was part of my camp life.
Bonni Robins <kilters@msn.com>
Plantation, FL -
My brother Marty told me about this web site for Arcady and the memories flooded back. I so enjoyed reading all the memories of all the people. I always tell my own kids about the greatest summers of my life at Arcady. I was there from 1956-1964. From age 7-15. I remember learning to play tennis and competing but losing in finals to Cookie Steinberg. My brothers Marty and Billy both went for all those years as well. My cousin Bruce Brandwen spent two summers and remains in contact with Debbie Metzker. My cousin Barbara Kusnetz, spent one summer at arcady but married Barry Rose after meeting him there. I dont hear from anyone though I would love to. I wonder about Penny (Ila) Kaplan,Karen Stein, Carol Bernstein, Meryl Friedman, Penny Gilbert. I remember having a crush on Mike Stern and Jerry Esposito(an older man). I learned so many things at Camp Arcady. I literally grew up there. Learned to swim, water ski, sail and canoe. I thought that tetherball should have been an Olympic event, and treated it that way. What I remember most was the fabulous friendships and how I learned to be independent and get along with all different people. I loved Camp Arcady and I went to the reunion at the Waldorf years ago, I think it's time for another one. If you remember me, I'd love to here from you. Nathy Kusnetz Hillman, Flanders, N.J.
Nathalie(Nathy) Kusnetz Hillman <mphillberg2003@yahoo.com>
Flanders, N.J. -
ALTHOUGH I WAS A COUNSELOR FOR THREE YEARS AT ARCADY, I HAVE TO SAY IT WAS THE BEST PLACE TO WORK. I WORKED AT THREE OTHER CAMPS, BUT ARCADY WILL ALWAYS BE "1". I REMEMBER, BERNIE, ED, SID, AND ALL THE GREAT PEOPLE. YOU HAVE ALOT TO BE PROUD OF FOR SETTING UP THIS SITE, AND LETTING PEOPLE "REMEMBER THE GOOD TIMES.
ED GERSTENBLATT <EGERSTENBLATT@YAHOO.COM>
NORTH PROVIDENCE, RI -
Here we are at Arcady
With Sid and Ed and Bernie
Sid's all right and Ed's all right
But Bernie's an attorney!!
Anonymous
Hague, NY -
I remember that Eben Bronfman and I would head out to the south end of the golf course after dark and dare one another to swallow rocks. One night he swallowed a good sized chunk of cinder block that still had a piece of rebar (those twisty rods of metal used in construction) sticking out. Oh, how we laughed about that even as his insides were being torn apart! Memories are precious.
Dusty Jones <mwoausa@yahoo.com>
Celebration, FL -
I've noticed a number of references to the Max Truck and Max Adelson. The story of how Max came to assume his legendary status in Arcady lore is typical of Max. Max was a CIT and was not invited back to camp by Ed Trenner. The following summer Max's trunk arrived at camp, soon to be followed by Max himself. Not knowing what to do with him, Ed created a job for Max and the rest is history. I started at Arcady as a senior in 1957 and was there through 1961. Chick Kotick was the group leader (his brother Kit also was a counselor). Some of the names I remember: Jimmy Cole, Peter Leiberman (?), Peter and Jeff Green and their cousin Jerry, Neil and Gary Sefferman, Myron Lutz and his sister Barbara, the Sunshines, the Matlick sisters, Beth Lowenstein. Great times, great memories. If anyone remembers me, I'd love to hear from them
Mitch Miller <mitchmiller03@yahoo.com>
Chestnut Ridge, NY -
In this year (2003), of Syracuse's NCAA basketball championship, their coach Jim Boeheim used to work as a counselor at Camp Walden, outside of Bolton Landing. The Director there was Dolph Schayes, an NBA Hall of Famer.
In the summer of '69, the Walden counselor team traveled up
Route 9N to take on the Arcady counselors under the lights. The Arcady team featured the likes of Steve Goldstein, Jeff Janoff, Mark Turtletaub, and others to whom I (watch that grammar)
apologize for not mentioning. However, my story does not really concern them, but the other referee in the game, Barry Chapnick. We had just put Boeheim on the foulline for two shots, and Dolph Schayes, who I believe was
6" 8" was one of the players in the lane awaiting the shot. When Boeheim made his first shot, Barry blew his
whistle, pointed at Schayes, and disallowed the shot because one of Dolph's oversized feet was on the line. Not
over the line, mind you, but certainly on the line, as everybody soon examined the position of his feet, as he
never moved them. I remember the Walden players, Boeheim and Schayes especially ,went ape-shit at what they considered so ticky-tacky a call, but Chapnick stood his ground. Not only that, after Boeheim made his second foul
shot, since Schayes had not moved his feet, Barry diallowed that one as well, and gave the ball to Camp Arcady. Oh yes, at the time that this occurred, Dolph Schayes's day job was coordinator of NBA officials.
Dave Zeemont
New City, NY -
Some random memories about over - under softball, since I waited so many years to be able to play.
Ed Grossman made grunting fashionable long before Jimmy Connors. Around the third inning, all his pitches would
be accompanied by a big "unnnh". He threw the ball with a
sling shot motion.
Eddie G. would sweat on his side, from his armpit to his
waist. I used to think this most unusual, until about 15
years later, when it started happening to me. My softball team used to refer to it as the "Eddie Grossman sweats".
Mike Goldberg pitched for the under 21's until he was 40.
Dick Courtiss used to call everybody on the other team "Rinko".
Bernie Cropsey used a glove given to him by Honus Wagner, it was so old.
Eddie Trenner played third base so close the batter his team didn't need a catcher.
Billy Myerson threw the ball so hard from shortstop my hand
still hurts.
One year, the unders were so bad, that when we finally won a game ( I think we picked positions by lot), we all signed the ball. Contrary to rumor, I do NOT still have it.
Dominick Esposito used to play catcher for the overs. I remember that he always went full out. ( He did this in
every endeavor - a great competitor). Even when throwing the ball down to second base during warm ups, he threw like he was trying to get a runner.
Twenty years later, when I was catching for my team, I used to do the same thing. My second baseman used to wonder why, until I threw two guys out in a game. It was easier to explain after that.
My two favorite ballplayers to watch were Bob Improta, and
Eric Silverstein (after all they might be reading this)
Dave Zeemont <mudjob@earthlink.net>
New City, NY -
This isn't a memory but a notice and a query:
Notice: that the Adirondack Museum is mounting a special exhibit this summer on children's camps in the Adirondacks. Arcady was one of 300, since 1885!
Query: would one of the Grossmans get ahold of me so I can find out some of the basic facts about Arcady? Thanks!
Hallie Bond <hbond@adkmuseum.org>
Blue Mountain Lake, ny -
Just rereading some entries on the site, for sure the Max-men originated with Max Adelson who drove the Max Truck. I remember Barry Rose being one of these guys. Mike Laskin was too. Can't remember the years, everything is time warped. I remember hitting golf balls on the range and the pitch and putt course with Gene Blankman, learning to pass my intermediate swim test with Barbara Berlan, having fits when I couldn't return the WHITE tennis balls over the net, trying to learn the canoe strokes from one of the Stein brothers(Alan or Michael), doing synchronized swimming with Harriet something or other, playing soccer with Barry Kulick,singing with both Bernie Guitar and Bernie Banjo. I remember Kenny Best teaching my group a song for some competition - oh that's right, Arcady was not about competition!! I also remember the fireplace cabin next to the infirmary - I shared that one for more than one camp season - it was pretty classy. Most of all, I remember the mischief that I got myself into, and enjoyed so much.
Bonni Robins <kilters@msn.com>
Plantation, FL -
i want to go back to arcady. if not in time--at least in place. i want to wonder the fields, the beautiful, white latice-lined, clay tennis courts, the water front, the dining hall--and yes, i, too remember the ladie's room in the rec hall. very country club, very grown up--with pock marked floors, make-up mirrors with stools.. i remember the pay phones that used to be in the rec hall outside ed trenner's office. i was so homesick that first year and so abused the privilege of calling home at will that the phones were removed. i remember going from bunk to bunk borrowing mohair sweaters---then spending hours drying our hair on rollers in the sun--preparing for the upcoming socials. greg "the bobber" sutton and suzie kamazon humping in the corner. the sweet and solemn walk to flag pole kisses ,couselors monitoring with flashlights. mounds bars delivered during rest hour accompanied by never ending jax games. steak and french fries(dumping the fries on a plate as soon as they came and putting them right back on the waiters tray so we could get seconds. --a hard days night--and feeling so special that WE got to see it as soon as it came out! sammy metzger, my first love. eddie gerstenblatt, my second. barry berk my third and friend forever my buds; debbie blumenthal, lucy silverberg, nancy rosenfelt. that empty feeling as summer came to an end--.white caps on the water, sweater weather at the end of august, crying the night before the last day. seeing those big buses arrive, ready to take us away. i remember the last time i sat on that bus--driving up that long, winding driveway, craning my neck-- trying to commit to memory all that i saw. sensing it was the last time. those years will always live inside me.
nancy freeman marks <nancy@markses.com>
-
All the memorable events and fantastic times I had at camp became part of an important foundation that I carried around for the rest of my life. I remember all my friends, bunkmates, crushes, laughs, tears, mass games, socials,American Red Cross tests, song fests, sports, counselors, etc. I especially remember Donna Kaplan, Paula Moss, "Shelagh" Katz, Alda Stich, Susi Adelson, Susan Brounstone, Susan Dorfman, Jill Kulick, Alana Martin, Karen Blumenthal, Debbie Metzger and so many others who were in my group throughout the years. What ever happened to all of you? I'd enjoy hearing from everyone.
Bonni Robins <kilters@msn.com>
Plantation, FL -
I often think about how very lucky I was to spend almost every summer of my childhood at Arcady. I remember each year my dad would say he could no longer send me, and I would cry for months until he somehow managed to pull it off. I still wonder what he sold off each year? I went to Arcady from age 7 until I was a babysitter. My brother Rich and I talk about camp and all the missed opportunities we had......We could have become expert sailors and tennis players and even golfers....but we were kids....what did we know..We did however become pretty good water skiers..and still enjoy it. I remember all the girls in my group...all the terrific personalitie (especially fond memories of Nancy R. Sigi F. Candy R. Beth Z. Liz B. Susan L.)I also remeber the boys....the social life at Arcady was always very important to me. Marc L....I enjoyed your memories. You were always one of the cutest guys and when I moved to Atlanta and saw your nephews it blew me away.... how much they looked like you as a kid! Beth was always my favorite counselor ! Dennis B....it was good to read your memories as well....and Jimmy.....you made camp extra fun for us all. I would love to e-mail any of my old buddies...so feel free to write. Thanks to those who created the website...Thanks so much for the memories.
Andrea Levy Smith <asmith4755@aol.com>
Atlanta, GA -
I was a camper for two summers and then a waiter for one. I think it was 58-59-60. Definitely remember Marc and Beth Lowenstein. Am wondering about some of my bunk mates: JJ Teicher, Jerry Green, Bobby Frankle i believe is a very famous horse trainer. Remember sneaking out of camp to walk the dirt road into Silver Bay to get candy bars. Played in guys and dolls and think I had the part of Nicely Nicely. What happened to Allen Rosenfeldt? at the time we were both aspiring electric guitar players.........he was a hot player even as a youngster. His father Sid was the Head Counselor I think...... not sure. I see that my older brother Michael has posted on this site; however we are not related to any of the other numerous Grossman's whose names appear here. Inter camp games were great and I especially remember a mountain climbing trip we undertook directly across the lake from camp in which a youngster named Billy Buckner from Montreal suffered a severe head injury and we had to send back to camp for help to get out of the wilderness. Subsequently he went to the hospital and was there for several days but fortunately made a full recovery. So hello to anyone who remembers me and hello to all of you who have shared that great experience of a Summer at Arcady.
Douglas Grossman <info@spannrecords.com>
Los Angeles, CA -
There were no greater memories than those of Arcady...I was absolutely amazed to have come across this!!!!!
Please please please....if u remember me or if you have any information on those who attended, please email me!
thank u again.
forever Stacy Kopet
hi to everyone!
Stacy Kopet-Heimlich <sheimlich@nyc.rr.com>
-
The best times of my life were at Arcady. Well, some of the best. Sometimes I wish I could still be a camper. I read the memories page and remembered so many people. David Moss actually went to the same college as I did. UHA. I don't have time to continue a post now but will later on. TURTLE STRIKES!!
Richie Lewitt <rl1090@yahoo.com>
San Francisco, CA -
I wanted to add that I also remember Andy Schiffer and visiting you on the South Shore. You played the violin for me there. Also, Steve Shapiro and your friend from New Jersey. Who's sweet sixteen did we go to? Remember the ride home to my house, then my father backing into your friends car? Boy, were we all sorry about that! Candy Ross, I remember talking to you about leopard carpeting going into your house. I met someone briefly from your past who belongs to my parents club on Long Island. Their good friend works for him part time still. Watching our parents on visiting day, not only did we notice your mother, my father would be the only man back then wearing bright colored pants against my wishes. Just had to add a few more thoughts.
Nancy Robins <NcyRb@AOL>
NYC, NY -
It's so wonderful listening to your memories of our most fun and wonderful camp. I know it was the best for me and my sister Bonni. Thank God her friend Evelyn Kaufman told her about and after such a most fun summer I had to tell my next door neighbors on either side, the Shapiros and Jeff Beer. It was the best summer months that had so much meaning and friendships to make memories forever. It seems you allo brought them out already. Jimmy Sunshine, you do remember me. You were my first boyfriend there. I was nine. Do you remember in the cafeteria they would sing for us "You are my sunshine, my only sunshine"? Mark Lowenstein, you remember everything (almost). I guess I didn't leave a lasting impression on you as you were my last boyfriend there. The year, another great one, however it ended with my hav9ing to leave the last week of camp early and those trajic car accidents. I also remember moving to Great Neck and seeing Liz Bell as a cheerleader along with many others I went to camp with. Stella Kleiger, we visited each other. Siggi, do you remember me visiting you. I lived at the dentist and would remember it was all do to my chewing Bazooka Bubble gum you bought us. Andrea Levy we were good friends. I enjoyed all of you, I just don't want to go through each individual. Thank you so much the Brandts for everything. No other camp had movies like we did. Remeber besides those movies being the best, we were also very social and got walked back to the flagpole by the boys we sat with? I remeber friends telling me I had a bad Jewish accent(I'd say I live on Long Giland), thank God, I no longer. I also remember girls at such a young age telling me if I didn't stop laughing I'd get lines later in life. Thank God I never stopped and I never got them. Besides the best movies, the food, beauty of the camp and everyone to help make it. One more thing. I had epilesy which nobody made fun of. I'd have to go see the nurse every morning with others and it was easy. I have it controlled now so I am the happiest ever. I am still the shortest and smallest-I stopped growing when I left Arcady. My best to all of you. Like I go to High School reunions, I wish there were camp reunions as well=Nancy Robins NcyRb@AOL
Nancy Robins <NcyRb@AOL>
NYC, NY -
My sister Ellen and I couldn't wait until our mom and dad JoAnne and Sid Glassner) returned from (I think) Sunday breakfast at the Dog Team Restaurant. They always brought us back those amazing Sticky Buns. I went to the Dog Team with my dad several years ago. They still serve Sticky Buns, but somehow they weren't as good as they were when I was eating them on the floor of our bunk, still wearing my pajamas! GO TIME MACHINE!
Andrea Glassner <mermandrea@yahoo.com>
Los Angeles, CA -
Enjoyed so much reading everyone's memories and the site in general. Fantastic job. I was Jeff Grossman's and Gary Brandt's counsellor during one or more of those years from '63-'65. Really a nice bunch of youngsters. One of the earliest memories I have is coming up to Arcady by train from Montreal, Que. We were on the constant lookout for American Customs or Immigration officers who patrolled the train, looking for illegal Canadian summer workers who were coming to the States and taking legitimite paying jobs from the Americans. I think we hid in the washroom for half the trip! A memorable highlight I recall was the successful ascent of Mount Marcy. I think we were the first group to attempt the climb and really stretched ourselves, both the staff and the kids who were all of 9-10 years old I think. They really outdid themselves over the 2 night / 3 day adventure. I also remember patroling the back road behind our bunks during the prisoner escape scare. Boy, was it dark back there. All we had was a flashlight and our wits, and even those began to fade at the slightest sound of crickets or unexpected rustle of bushes. Us Canucks are not into the gun thing! We had a great group of counsellors in the groups that kept on returning. Fond memories and hellos go out to Bobby Sunshine, Marshall Gerstenblatt(sp), Jerry Esposito, Neil Stein. Sadly, a fellow resident of Montreal at the time, Danny Lowe, a favourite of so many campers especially in the Nature interest, passed away several years ago. He was very highly respected in his medical specialty at the time of his passing. Jeff, so sorry to hear about the passing of your Dad. You probably wouldn't be aware but your Dad and I had some monstrous table tennis matches in the late evening when camp had quieted down and everyone was in a relax mode. Your Dad was a terrific competitor as well as an excellent player. Each game seemed to go to the last point, like 21-19. I think we split our series so we decided to call it quits at that point. I, like many others, did return to Arcady after it closed to show my wife where I spent three wonderful summers. Thank you Bobby et al for providing a short history of Arcady and the region. The last time, probably five years ago or so, we stopped at the Sagamore Hotel. It's really a totally modern, upscale resort now with all types of new accommodations and facilities. And you still can't beat the waterfront with its beautiful view, as I know we felt the same about Arcady. Does anyone remember "Top 'O the World ' golf course on the mountain just past and around the bend of Lake George Beach? Put me down as an enthusiastic supporter of any camp reunion that is in the works. I attended a 40th year reunion of the camp I attended as a camper in the '50s and it was just fantastic. I would gladly try to coordinate the Canadian contingent even though there were many campers and counsellors who attended Arcady for many more years than I did, like the Steins. Regards to all and keep in touch. Dave Slapack, Oct 20, 2002.
Dave Slapack <dave.slapack@moh.gov.on.ca>
Toronto, ON -
Where to start? I was a tomboy for most of the years and loved all the sports -- softball, Bernie Ball, volleyball, swimming, sailing, tennis. Loved campouts -- to Rogers Rock especially. Always loved the counselors -- Laurie Berk, Peggy Hirschensohn(sp?), Joan Bernstein -- they were college students and so adult! Ed Grossman's ghost stories were unbeatable, especially the year we had the bunk with a fireplace and sat in the dark hearing about the escaped prisoners. I'm so sorry to hear he died. He was memorable. Bernie and Ed always got to know everyone. Loved their slide shows. Dances -- and flagpoling afterwards. My first boyfriend was at Arcady -- Ricky Plevy. The plays were always first class! The songs -- and the guitar music -- the last night at the lake and the candles floating away. Freihofers Chocolate Chip Cookies -- still think of Arcady when I bite into them. The long bus rides up with comic books, lots of food -- couldn't wait to see everyone at the South Orange Junior High stop! The color wars -- we were the Great French Team from Arcady ... and we will triumph over all -- still remember "most" of the lyrics. Moose -- I remember he was very tall, a great guitar player and teacher -- but come on -- just a little strange? I remember one year there was a girl Tina from NYC, who always got in trouble running away -- she was alot of fun. Compulsory and optional swims-- look at the vocabulary words we learned so early. Sailing was magical -- canoeing and rowing boring. Great water-skiing. Canteen with Sugar Daddies and those Apple Pops-two sided lollipops -- and those fruit runs at night -- chores in the morning. Rainy days and playing Bingo -- I can still smell the pine and birch of rainy days. Flagpoling -- only we would make it a verb - the guys were great at Arcady! So how do we bring it back? Reunion at Times Square Bowling Lanes?
Barbie Gross (now Barbara Franklin) <bfrank4fr@aol.com>
Randolph, NJ -
I stumbled on this web site when I looked up my name and found my camp pictures. Memories came streaming back to me.
I remeber sneaking out of camp to the General Store to buy Freihoffer Chocolate chip cookies.
I remember my first kiss at the flagpole but not his name and he had braces and was chewing bubble gum:)
I remember sneaking up to the tennis court during all day general swims and hitting balls with the tennis counselor.
I remember going water skiing for the first and last time. When I returned after a successful turn around the cove I told everyone I was done. When the boat came back the counselor said they had never seen such a look of terror on anyone's face. Sheer fear kept me from falling!
And sadly I remember visiting my sister after I had finally stopped coming to camp and that awful car accident that took so many lives and was so very tragic.
Beth Zucker <bezu@rcn.com>
New York, NY -
Correction: We were 1966 Senior B girls.
Barbara Jaffe
-
I stumbled upon the Arcady site by accident, a friend having "googled" me and found my bunk photo. I have already contacted Robin Halpern about the site. But I regret to inform those who knew her that Ilene Zucker passed away last year. Ilene, Robin and I attended Arcady as Seniors in 1968, although Robin and Ilene may have attended in previous years as well.
Barbara Jaffe
9/4/02
Barbara Jaffe <jeffe9131@aol.com>
New York, NY -
[posted for LF by Jeff Grossman; from email 8/16/02] ...My sister in the pix is Elyse Fradkin who is now a jewlery designer. I became a rock star both with The Original Cast of Beatlemania on Broadway portraying "George Harrison") and with such pop groups as Edison Lighthouse, The Flying Machine, The Godz and others. I still do oldies shows to this day. It's funny...I can remember every one in the photo as if it was yesterday. I can still hear Marshall Gerstenblatt's Rhode Island accent. Bobby Brandt taught me to play the bass guitar (this served me well in England years later). I'd love to hear from anyone who'd like to correspond and I'd love to know what became of these people.... I love the site... I'll add additional memories next week.
Les Fradkin <lfradkin@earthlink.net>
Parker, CO -
my bother jerry just this minute informed me that camp arcady has a website..it has been just over 35 years that i ended a 9 year run at arcady...the greatest time in my life...as my own daughters,ali 17 and jessie 14, come home tomorrow from camp wayne for girls in PA, they have become the ultimate campers...like i remember from arcady...
everyones memories conjured such vivid emotional stuff in me..marc lowenstein, dennis bernstein, the brandts, the grossmans etc etc...i won't reiterate, but i will add some random thoughts,
sadie hawkins day
marrying nancy robbins
madly in love with sigi friedman
spenser schiffer...the fastest man in the world
seeing "a hard days night"
"sealed with a kiss"
canoe (the cologne)
wan deago --the counselors would tell the story about the killer who roamed the woods dragging one leg that was shot by a shotgun..
tony sobel jr....the strogest man in the world
rick kaplan...teaching us young tennis travelers on intercamp games on how great a talent it was to be able to curl your tongue and ream something on a girl, not knowing what he was referring to..
heavy petting in the rifle shack..
heavy petting under the rec hall..
exploring the old stage sets under the rec hall..
wondering how a guy like walter lubell turned out after years of hearing "you can tell be the smell that it's .....
bob binder....28 bucks, binder is an idiot etc etc
evryone seems related to the brandts.....kaufman, sommers, schers, even the sunshines (my father got his start in the movie industry working for harry....
that night when there was that terrible car crash and a couple of counselors perished???
the ross's pulling down the hill in their limo
mrs. ross's makeup...
candy ross....cute young thing
gameral,sefferman,sunshine, blank, blask
robin blank.....the older beautiful woman
joan wolfers...to die for cute
being a waiter...delivering steak and fries to the older boys at the speed of light
harry gamerals care packages...we actually ate the sardines
moose...were those really tire treads on the bottom of those shoes
leslie fradkin..could play the beatles as an infant
robbie scher...could pick the guitar and amaze us
i played nicely nicely johnson in "guys and dolls" doug black and stella klieger were the leads...
the guy with the upside down muscle...carl danielson from the waterfront..
many other thoughts will come..
regards
js
Jimmy Sunshine <jsunshine@sunshineworldwide.com>
Syosset, NY -
Passed Arcady in early June of this year and the memories of the late 50's and early 60's at that incredible place will never be forgotten. Was with my brothers Bob and Jimmy on our Harley's and we road through the facility. Boathouse appears to be the only building that still remains. I met my wife Joan there and we've been married now just over 37 years. Bob met his first wife there (Betsy Silverberg) and my sister in law Ellen Klein met her Husband Peter there.
Spoke to Selma Grossman today and learned of Eddie's passing. For the record, Eddie was the pitcher on that "over" Baseball team, Cropsey played short, Trenner was on third, Marshall Gerstenblatt caught anything hit to Center Field and I roamed left. Marshall married Bobbie Lutz, Myron's younger sister. He was my fraternity brother and we intro'd them.
Would love to help put together a reunion of some sort if there is any interest. Let me know.
Jerry Sunshine <JerryJSO@Aol.Com>
Great Neck, NY -
Marc. Thanks for reminding me about the BAMF's a/k/a the CHAMPS. I had a lot of fun organizing that group. Did you know that Leslie Fradkin, our BAMF guitarist, later appeared on Broadway in "Beatlemania"? To think that he got his start at Arcady in the BAMF's!
Robert Brandt <robert@brandtorg.com>
Weston, CT -
Marc. I loved reading your lengthy and detailed message. Brought back many memories. I can verify that the description in the book of how and why my family purchased the Sagamore and later Arcady is correct.
robert brandt <robert@brandtorg.com>
weston, ct -
I just visited the site again after a long hiatus. Loved the memories and the pictures. I gave all of my Arcady pics to Betsy Silverberg who was going to write a book about camps in the 60s. I haven't been able to find her to get them back. If anyone knows where she is, please let her know I want my pictures back.
Shelley Greenwald <smgreenw@aol.com>
New Rochelle, NY -
As so many of you have already stated, reading your memories and seeing the photos have flooded my brain with many thoughts and images. I'm Marc Lowenstein, and I first went to Arcady as a camper in 1957, a few months shy of 6 years old, and having just finished kindergarten. Fortunately, for those of you who remember, my older brothers Chuck and Dick, and my sister Beth were all at Arcady at that time. The three of them started in 1955. I actually was in BA for 3 years! I remember my first year being with Jimmy Brandt, and my last year, Gary Brandt joined our group as the youngest kid. Our counselor for the first two years was a wonderful man named Jack Most. One of the things I haven't see anyone mention yet was meal tickets. Remember how we had to write post cards home every Tuesday and Thursday before we were allowed to go to lunch? As a 5 year old this was significant to me. Not only couldn't I read or write, but I had no idea what my address was, or where I lived! So, I had to dictate my message to a counselor who would write it for me and check my trunk for my address. In 1960, I finally made it to BB. Our counselors were the three Daves from Montreal--Stein, Shapiro, and Marcus. And my sister Beth was our fourth counselor--that was odd for me. 1964 was the last year the four of us Lowenstein kids were all at Arcady together. Beth was captain of the Tuesday Morning team that Jeff Grossman mentioned. I was on a team called George, and we made it about George Harrison. My brothers were both driving ski boats that summer. CIT year in 1966 in the boathouse was my favorite year. Bill Viederman was a wild counselor. And sailing was my passion. A bunch of our group got certified to sail the Lone Stars without an instructor, and we went off to Noble Island for a overnight campout. It was a blast. We used to get together with Robbie Scher and play pirate as far away from camp as possible so we wouldn't get in trouble. We also climbed Arcady Mountain across the street from the camp. One of the trips away from camp that I loved, was going to Blue Ridge Falls and sliding down the slippery rocks into the water. And as a little kid, I remember playing in the swampy frog pond on the way to South Point. Between Dennis Bernstein, Ed Grossman, Jeff Grossman, and Bobby Brandt, lots of memories were restimulated. In 1967 I was a waiter, and my last two years, 68 and 69, I was a Maxman. To answer Dennis' question, the Max truck was named after Max Edelson or is it Edelstein? I believe your oldest brother Harvey was a Maxman with Max. The truck was an old 1948 Chevy panel truck that Tony Sobel bought in 1954 for about $50. Jeff Grossman--it was Alan Plevy and myself who painted it psychedelic in 1968. We went up to the laundry and stayed awake all night and painted it with a beautiful rainbow. Unfortunately, in the morning, Plevy was punchy tired, and decided to paint spots all over the roof. And Ed Grossman, how did you and Trenner and a small group of men always beat us in softball? As for Bobby Brandt, remember playing music in the Little Theater as the band the Champs? We actually wanted to call ourselves the Bamfs, but it didn't happen for a variety of reasons. The waiters quarters were atrocious compared to campers rooms. Gary Shapiro, remember going from the boathouse to the crammed dumphouse? And the crazy world of Henry Ross, Gus, Nick, and the guy who always plastered dollar bills on his forehead and all over the walls? I'm convinced being a Maxman was the best job. By the second year, with Bobby Zeemont as my partner, I knew the ropes quite well. I got to leave camp more than any other person other than administrators. I would take the 1966 light green Bonneville wagon to the Sagamore to pick up movies. Sometimes, I got to go all the way to Glens Falls for movie pickups. I was 17 and free and having a great time. Going back to the beginning, I remember in 1957 when in the middle of the summer, Bernie Cropsey had to leave to go into the Army. Taking track for interest periods was a great idea since no one ever showed up and we got to do whatever we wanted. Just like signing up for Golf. We would go out to the 3rd green and 4th tee, and stop and play cards. During color wars, people would go into the woods near the golf course and get poison ivy. As a waiter, Mike Schiff got poison ivy, and had calamine lotion on his face. The senior girls demanded a new waiter. So, Steve Ganis showed up--and put calamine lotion all over his face. The girls couldn't win...Back to being a Maxman, do any of you remember how we used to pile the laundry baskets so high in front of the doors to your bunks so you couldn't get in? In 1969, the color wars game was Invasion From Mars. The photo of Warren Shapiro with an unknown counselor--the counselor was Ernie Singer. I know different songs were heard at the last night, but the one that struck me the most was Buffy Sainte-Marie singing 'Until it's Time for You to Go.' Hillel asked what the camp grounds are like now. Last October, for my 50th birthday, I took my wife and kids on a trip to New England. They had never seen colors like that before--we certainly don't get anything like that in Colorado. While we were there, we went to Arcady. As many of you know, it's now a private community of about 70 homes. However, the house by the main entrance is still there. The winding road going down to the water is the same road. The docks and walkway to the covered structures on the docks are the same. Even the steps coming down to the waterfront from where the flagpole was are still there. The glass roof of the pavillion is gone, but the two buildings on either side--the restrooms and the paddle/oar building are still there and smell the same as when I was there as a camper. The beach area is the same and the white concrete fencing behind the old rec hall with Arcady written on the wall facing the water is still there. The concrete pilings for the boathouse is the same, but someone built a large home on the site. Some of the tennis courts are also still there, as well as the backboards to hit the ball against when playing by yourself. And of course, Scotch Bonnet is sitting out in the water like a sentinel over the cove. While we were in the area, we took a lunch cruise on the Luc Saint Laurent out of Lake George. The Mohican and Minnihaha were done for the season. The ride was wonderful. There were several books on the history of the area. One book explained how the area where Arcady began was started as an adult tent camp in 1917 for parents who had kids in camps in the area. In 1935, the Lowe Brothers bought the property and built the cabins and bunks that we knew and loved. It was still an adult resort. Only the Brandts can verify the following. The book said that in the late 40's, Lou Brandt wanted to stay at the Sagamore, and because he was Jewish, he received a frosty reception. As a result of this, he and Bingo bought the place and made it a retreat for Jewish entertainers and our parents!! Their main competiton was Arcady, so in 1953, the Brandts bought the property, which eliminated the competition and provided a place for Bingo's kids to go for a great summer for years to come. Or at least, that's what was written in a book about the history of the region. Bobby, Jimmy, Gary, Johnny--any accuracy to this info? By the way, after we left Arcady, we went to Fort Ticonderoga. While I was filling up the car with gas, I asked a woman if the paper mill was still there. She said yes, and that they were taken applications for new employees at International Paper Company if I wanted to apply for a job. That gave me a good laugh. Also, the Silver Bay General Store is still there, but the Bywater Cafe and Dock n Dine are no longer in Hague. Anyway, that night we went on the ferry over to Vermont and had dinner at the Dogteam. It was surprisingly the same as I remember it. They take your order before you're seated, they start the meal with sticky buns, then on to the condiments wheel and the main course. It was fantastic. While we were in New England we visited with Steve Ganis and his sister Andrea in Connecticut. Steve was at Arcady from, I think, 62 through 67, and Andrea through 70. They are the only folks from Arcady they I have stayed in touch with over the years. One interesting observation about this website. I read all of the letters that people wrote, and of the 30 before mine, only 3 were by women. Is it because more men are into computers than women, or because it's not easy finding the site? Last, but not least on my late night run on, my sister Beth got a hold of Ed Trenner a few months ago. I actually spoke with him and his wife Noreen recently. We've been e-mailing back and forth. Noreen just mailed me a letter by snail mail on their lives in Maine. Ed is now 80 or 81, and sounds great. He left Arcady after 65 and started a camp in Maine. Dick Curtis, the old waterfront director before Gordon Gulitz and Dom Esposito, also owns and runs a camp in Maine. If you are interested in contacting Ed, let me know. He still loves talking about his years at Arcady and the great stories he used to tell at night. Thanks Jody, Jeff, and Ed Grossman for making this happen and providing the opportunity for people to share memories with one another. Your efforts are greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Marc Lowenstein <MarcTL10@adelphia.net>
Colorado Springs, CO -
Since I spent all my summers at Arcady, from crib to counselor, my fond memories of the place are too many for me to try and recall at this time. Thanks to Jeff Grossman, Dennis Bernstein, my brother and others for covering many of them.
Compliments to Jody Grossman for taking the time and effort to resurrect...in a way...and for all of us, the magic and allure of Camp Arcady...which for many of us is synonymous with a spectacular summer camp situated on a lake that loomed as large as an ocean in the minds of the younger campers (and even some of the older ones when white caps would form during any one of the several thunderstorms that lashed the cove each summer)...a formative stage in our childhood...a unique place in time...a childhood crush...a "cool" counselor and any one of a thousand other basic memories imprinted in our collective psyche that haphazardly wander in and out of our minds, sometimes triggered by a specific sound, scent or event, sometimes for no apparent reason at all...other than the fact that the experience is so much a part of us all.
gary brandt <gary@brandtorg.com>
rye, ny -
Rick, that was indeed a memorable birthday song, if only to a handful of us. Scott Kaufman, who was also there reminds me of it every 10 years or so. Of course, what you neglected to include was the fact that our team was having dinner in the Echo Lake dining hall, surrounded by all of the Echo Lake campers and counselors, as well as the other teams playing in the invitational, participating in a round of happy birthday to one of the Echo Lake campers. For lack of a proper name to fete, I think Rick's concluding verse, sung loudly and with feeling, went something like..."Happy Birthday, you a..hole, happy birthday to you!!" Tennis team outings were never dull with Rick. I hope he is well and touches base one of these days. Funny, but perhaps in some strange, mystical way, the event figured into the dynamic of your own career path. Best regards Rick. Gary
Gary Brandt <gary@brandtorg.com>
RYE, NY -
Arcady was so special to me that I have since purchased a lake front cabin in Bolton Landing and I make periodic pilgrimages North to the sacred grounds. My kids, now 23 and 19 are sick of the stories and make fun of me...but that's because they love hearing them...over and over. I remember everything..vividly.My CIT year was my last in 1969...the summer of love.I remember Moose (a true bohemian), Rick Kaplan leading the tennis team in a Birthday song at Camp Echo Lake.The Freihoffer cookie story has been told numerous times.I even went to Alfred Univ...where one of my Counselors Joel Schoen went! I am now a Gastroenterologist in Lancaster Pa...I am practicing for retirement on Lake George....
Rick Elkin <gifishguy@aol.com>
Lancaster, PA -
It was 1954. I was 8 years old, and my family had recently purchased Arcady and converted it from an adult retreat to a children's camp. My earliest memory of Arcady was of the interior of a bunk. It resembled a hotel room, with two beds, a dresser, and a night-table on which sat a lamp and telephone. There was also a carpet. I shared the room with one other camper. It wasn't until several years later when Ed Trenner became director that the camp we all remember began to take shape. From age 8 on, I was an Arcady camper every summer until I became a C.I.T., and then a waiter, a junior counselor, and finally a counselor. The last two summers I spent at Arcady were at the waterfront teaching sailing and driving the ski boats - two of the best summers of my life!! Many memories that I share are already posted on this web site. Others include Ed Trenner suddenly terminating a night basketball game against Silver Bay after it became too physical, some very rough weather in which 3 of 5 sailboats that were on an over-night camping trip capsized, a mass game of "capture the flag" during which I snuck around the golf course and then down Route 9N to attack from behind, sitting on the floor of the theatre in front of the stage changing flashbulbs during a show, eating chocolate ice cream cones at the canteen, serving as camp projectionist for a summer, the stillness of the lake and the sound of the rowboat moving through the water during twilight boating before the late movie, a counselor shining his flashlight in my face during a trip to the flag pole with a date after a movie, being impressed with the fact that Lew Eigen knew so much about so many things, drinking "bug-juice" in front of the mess hall after rest hour, watching a movie in the infirmary during an overnight stay, watching the hydroplanes round Scotch Bonnet during the Lake George Regatta, playing ping pong and knock hockey in the rec hall, playing tether ball and horseshoes around the bunks, the drive to the Dog Team on my day off, Mel Sachs showing how to "pitch a tent" during skit night, hanging out with Dave Crassen around the mess hall before meals, seeing Tony Sobul driving his jeep, being introduced to a cologne called "Canoe" by my socially precocious bunkmates from Great Neck, cookouts at South Point, the entire camp singing "Michael Row the Boat Ashore" with Bernie Banjo after a show, and so many more....
Robert Brandt <robert@brandtorg.com>
Weston, CT -
Although most probably remember Gordon Gulitz for "five more minutes", my memory is of Gordon the Disciplinarian. Maybe it only happened once, and I was very young and impressionable, but I vividly recall Gordon Gulitz's reprimand of choice at the waterfront: "If you do that one more time, I'll throw you so far, SO FAR -- you'll never find your way back again!"
Marc Shapiro <mshapiro@shapblock.com>
Tenafly, NJ -
Yes Tim, the waterfront counselor who shouted, "Fiiiiive mooooooore miiiiiinutes, swiiiiiiim" was Gordon Gulitz.The former mousketeer who was also a waterfront counselor was Doreen Salerno if my memory serves me right.
David Jacoby AKA Jocko <Goodwolf77@AOL.com>
Delray Beach, FL -
I was Louis Leonowins in "The King and I." But I'm with Marc Shapiro: The most memorable performance ever given in the Little Theater was by Neal Armstrong, walking on the moon in July 1969. Like Marc, what I mostly remember is struggling to stay awake in that sweltering room.
Am I right in remembering that the name of the waterfront counselor who used to say "Fiiiiiive Mooooore Miiiiiinutes" was Gordon? And that another waterfront counselor was Doreen from the Mickey Mouse Club?
Tim Noah <timnoah@earthlink.net>
Washington, DC -
Some disconnected memories: Sailing around North Point in a Sunfish, racing in the "war canoes" ("Set! Pull! Set! Pull!"), rowing to a quiet spot to go fishing (did anyone ever catch ANYTHING?). The Max Men delivering boxes of fruit for an evening snack--usually apples or plums, but on rare occasions, peaches. Knocking ourselves silly bouncing off the "Bernie Ball." Sweeping Camp Walden in softball and volleyball and piling into the Tom LaDue busses to go for ice cream afterwards. Rainy days in the rec-room, with the slap and clatter of Nok-Hockey competing with someone pounding out "Heart and Soul" on that rinky-tink upright piano, and endless games of Monopoly with the rules constantly changing to keep it interesting ("Who sez you can't build two hotels on Boardwalk?!"). "Educational" trips to Shelburne Museum and Fort Ticonderoga, where the main attraction was buying penny-candy at the gift shop (for weeks afterwards, Atomic Fireballs were legal tender). Painting sets and searching for props for the 'big show' ("Annie Get Your Gun" in '67, "South Pacific" in '68, "The King and I" in '69). And where in the world was Myra Mishkin???
Russell Handelman <rhandel182@aol.com>
-
I WAS A CAMPER FROM 1967 TO 1970 AND MY BROTHER MITCH WAS A COUNSELOR.I REMEMBER THE AN AIRPLANE DROPPING FRIHOFFER COOKIES DURING A GROUP STUNT.THE PLACE BRINGS BACK SO MANY HAPPY MEMORIES THAT I AM THRILLED SOMEONE DEVELOPED A WEB SITE.
PETER CHARAP <PCHARAP@PCPNYC.COM>
NEW YORK, NY -
I stumbled on this website in the course of my searching the internet for Arcady references, something I have done regularly since 1994. I was so excited that I emailed my brothers (Gary & Warren Shapiro) and my sister (Lorraine Shapiro) immediately, all of whom were campers in the 1960s. I have been visiting for over a month now, reading with great interest each new posting from former campers and counselors and watching the photo collection grow. Among my own cherished memories from 32+ years ago, I have been searching for that single, defining Arcady experience to which every Arcady alum could relate. I think I've found it, and for those of us who shared the Summer of '69, this should be a vivid memory.
It was 10:56 p.m., way past my bedtime, on the evening of July 20, 1969. I was eight years old. I sat in Ed Klopfer's lap on the floor of the theater, uncomfortably cramped around a black-and-white TV set with many other campers and counselors. It seemed like we had been there for hours. At that moment, we watched Neil Armstrong climb down from the Apollo 11 Lunar Module to become the first human to set foot on the Moon. We all listened through the tiny TV speaker as he made his famous declaration on behalf of mankind. I knew that I had witnessed an important moment in history, and I would forever associate that moment with Arcady.
Thank you, Jody & Jeff, for bringing these memories back to life for all of us.
Marc Shapiro <mshapiro@shapblock.com>
Tenafly, NJ -
Hello,
I did a Google search just on a whim to see what I could pull up on Camp Aracdy. What memories! Beating Brandt Lake at softball, canoe trips, climbling Mt. Marcy and Mt. Haystack, fishing trips, the movies and socials. What a beautiful palce it was. I went back there in about 1991. I walk all over the grounds. It raised the hair on my neck to see how the place changed. I have some pictures and some yearbooks I will dig out and submitt. Anyone how wants to email me is welcome to do so. I would love to hear from you. My email is vimtu7585@aol.com. Warm regards, David Moss
David Moss <vimtu7585@aol.com>
Boca Raton, FL -
Arcady was where my family spent every summer of the Sixties. My father was the camp doctor. the day after school ended each year, we all got into the car for the all day drive to Hague; mercifullt shortened when the New York State Thruway opened. We had the place practically to ourselves as my dad set up the infirmary and we waited for our fellow campers to arrive. Although my parents only stayed half the summer (usually with a family friend or relative manning the post for the other half), they usually returned at the end of camp and we stayed on for another week or so. We were, of course, not the only family to return every year. I looked forward to reuniting every summer with my camp friends. My parents made friends there that have remained a part of every major occaison my family has celebrated. It was only the closing of Arcady that sent us elsewhere for the summer, and I have little doubt that if it were open today that it is where my son would go to camp.
Alan Dubow <dubow@usa.net>
Alexandria, VA -
When I was 16 and a junior counselor in 1968, I had a wonderful Arcady romance with one of the babysitters. She was helping to take care of the young Cropsey kids, Diane and Douglas are their names, if I am not mistaken. On one day off, this girl and I played tennis together on the clay courts, went horseback riding near Ticonderoga, "made out" for the first time in the counselor lounge and went out to dinner at a restaurant near Silver Bay called, I think, The Open Hearth. Since that idyllic Adirondack day, our lives have been blessed. In 1977 I married the babysitter, Ellen Myerson, had three kids with her and just woke her up calling into the next room, asking for some memory verifications.
Gary Shapiro <gmsteach@aol.com>
Baldwin, NY -
I was at Camp for many years with my older brother Gary, older sister Lorraine, and younger brother Marc. I have vivid memories of singing around the flag pole with Moose. Also, Ivan Betcherman, the greatest basketball player I have ever seen. And the great showdown wrestling match between Mike Bruck and Vic Helfand, the two biggest guys I had ever seen. I later found out that the match was fixed from my brother Gary. I still remember it ended in a tie!
Warren Shapiro <warrenshapiro@aol.com>
Westport, CT -
On April 1, 02 I received an e-mail from Jeff Grossman who found my name on the Camp Robinson Crusoe site - Jeff and I, it turns out, live about 10 minutes from each other. I don't remember Jeff, of course, but I certainly remember his Dad, who was my boss at Arcady where I spent three years as a counselor from 1956 to 1958. Arcady was a great experience for the kids and the staff. Its hard to believe it was 44 years ago. Regardds to all.
Mike Berger <smberg@erols.com>
Vienna, VA -
I came to Arcady as a counselor when my younger brother came as a camper. I brought an amateur radio transmitter and receiver with me and strung a wire antenna between two tall trees. One of my most vivid memories is being taught how to run the 35mm projectors for movie nights. On my days off I worked at WIPS in Ticonderoga and would record five days worth of shows. This was mid to late fifties.
Michael Grossman <hawk114@go.com>
Los Angeles, CA -
I have wonderful memories of my friends and counselors. I hope any of them who see this will contact me. I remember trips to inter-camp games, Ausable Chasm, Saratoga (The Band, Peter, Paul, and Mary) the ferry on Lake Champlain, overnights to Waltonian Island, Vicars Island, and Lake Dunmore, Vermont. As Inter B boys in '67, we rowed back from Waltonian Island in astonishing speed so that we would not miss our Sunday lunch of sliced steak and fries. Yes, there was a dog's grave on Waltonian. I still remember the socials and getting up the courage to ask those girls who were six inches taller to dance. FIVE MORE MINUTES, SWIM!
UN DAY. Brazil won in '67 and Italy in '70. Horray for both of them. But Freihofers came in third in the '68 National Convention, boooooo! Time Machine won. Boooooo! We all live in a yellow Tom LaDue. Sailing and almost tipping over in a Lone Star. The walk to South Point. Great counselors and great friends.
David Jacoby AKA Jocko <Goodwolf77@aol.com>
Delray Beach, FL -
My name is Hillel Italie. I spent three summers at Arcady, 1968-70, and would have spent many more had it not closed down. Does anyone out there have pictures from those years? And what happened to the old Arcady grounds?
Hillel Italie <HItalie@ap.org>
- Wednesday, January 02, 2002 at 16:33:22 (EST)
In answer to Dennis Bernstein's question about Lud's shack: When Ed Trenner came to Arcady from Camp Robinson Crusoe he brought me with him. He also brought his dear friend Lud Bach to do the programming. Lud was a soft spoken, intelligent, creative man. Unfortunately, he died at a very young age. The shack was named in his honor.
Ed Grossman
- Sunday, November 18, 2001 at 20:54:25 (EST)
To this day, I have the fondest memories of the thirteen glorious summers I spent at Camp Arcady, "located on beautiful, 32 mile-long scenic, Lake George, nestled deep in the Adirondacks of New York!" I still have beautiful dreams about a time when life was so much simpler for all of us. I only wish I could have one more chance to ...
... Take a ride on an Adirondack Trailways bus, enter the camp and drive down that long and winding road. Pass the soccer fields and tennis courts and know that all would be well for the next eight weeks and one day.
... Hear the CIT girls sing "Elegance." Did they really use dollar bills for matches?
... Finally playing Left Field in an "under-over" game. I played so deep for Ed Grossman that he stepped out of the batters box to try and psyche me out. He yelled that he couldnt see me; but what a thrill when he hit the ball to me to make the final out of the inning!
... Steal the "Poop To The Group". Maybe now we would understand what half of it meant instead of just making believe we did!
... If I could only taste the "Hump's" steak and French Fries for Sunday lunch. How many times did we send our waiter back for more? The key was getting an extra stainless steel platter for the steak and the white bowl for the French Fries so the waiter could always go back to the kitchen with an empty.
... Remembering how the Max Truck used to be hidden on Visiting Day. Even now, more than thirty years later, I just know that the Max Truck would still be running! (Extra Credit - Does anyone know where the name "Max-Men" came from?)
... Worry about who I would take to the movie on Tuesday night or the social on Thursday night. How I used to love hearing, Will I See you in September or Leaving on a Jet Plane at the end of each event.
... More importantly, how long would we be allowed at the flagpole to say, "Goodnight." In the thirteen years that I went to Camp Arcady, I always marveled how that white birch tree behind the flagpole withstood all of those makeout sessions.
... Breathe that air when the winds from Ticonderoga were blowing our way. The "aroma" from The International Paper Company is just something one never forgets.
... Go to Nature for "Interest" period one and two (Only kidding - I just wanted to see if anyone was paying attention!)
... Try and figure out what all of those geometric shapes meant on the "Buddy Tags." I am sure that with four years of college behind me it would now be a snap!
... Go for a ride on Lake George in the Chris Craft for Twilight activity. Hell, right now I'd settle for a ride around the cove in the Putt-Putt!
... Walk into the Dining Room only to find that there was no breakfast prepared. At the time, we were told that "the waiters stole it and we would have to find it." (We believed it!) What great fun we had picking oranges, bananas and cereals off of trees on the softball field.
.... Go to the Silver Bay General Store (Route 9N's answer to a Mall) for a box of Freihoffer chocolate chip cookies. They just don't seem to taste as good when you can buy them so easily at Waldbaums!
... Witness the look on a new camper's face the first time they saw the "Bernie Ball." The only thing better than that was seeing the look on their face after getting bounced off the Bernie Ball for the first time in the Camp Arcady version of Steal The Bacon.
... Take one more ride on a Thomas M. LaDue bus. How did they ever make it up Tunge Mountain?
... Experience the joy of waiting for our counselors (most of whom we idolized) to come back to camp on their day off. Especially the times they would be loaded with "sticky buns" and fried chicken from the Dog Team.
... See Bernie Cropsey go crazy when the girls in Lud Shack forgot to turn off the "bell" when making an announcement. Even worse was when the girls forgot to turn the "bell" back on after the announcement! (More Extra Credit ... Who was Luds Shack named after?)
... See the faces on the visiting camps when they found out we really did have fireplaces in our bunks. Needless to say, we never did anything to squash roomers that we had carpets in the bunks with maids to clean them!
... Explain to visiting camps that the horseshoe was a place to play volleyball and not a symbol for good luck!
... Practice long and hard for the annual camp play held in The Arcady Little Theater on Sunday night. Many of those productions could rival some of the work that has come to Broadway since then!
... Chanting, One-Two-Three-Four, we want Color War!
... Float a candle from the beach and watch 19-- go up in flames while we all sing "Friends." And I dont mean the theme song to that popular sitcom our kids watch every Thursday night these days.
Dennis Bernstein <dfbernstein@aol.com>
Marlboro, NJ - Saturday, November 17, 2001 at 11:43:54 (EST)
I remember it all - or at least I think I do. Fake kitchen raids for Nick's jelly doughnuts. Crumb cake on Sunday mornings. The "mass" games. The Seine and then Jet Plane on the last night of camp. The last week - the final show, the prom, the banquet. Trips to White Mountain, Saratoga (The Band, The Fifth Dimension and of course, the Philadelphia Philharmonic). The counselors - they seemed SO old and mature. Overnight canoe trips and sails. I spent most of the year looking forward to camp - an incredibly special place, with incredible people that has left me with incredible memories. I often wish I could go back and really appreciate it.
I was a camper from 1963 until 1968 and an "office girl" the following year. Would love to hear from all my friends.
Shelley Greenwald <smgreenw@aol.com>
New Rochelle, NY - Saturday, November 17, 2001 at 10:31:18 (EST)
Can't forget Tuesday lunch, salami and eggs and the most delicious jelly donuts. Forgettable was the Sunday peanut butter on banana dinner.
Selma Grossman
- Wednesday, November 14, 2001 at 14:14:10 (EST)
Arcady Movies: Most camps order movies long in advance of the summer. Movies like Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, Shane, etc. were the typical fare. At Arcady, we had the Brandt connection. Since the owners of Arcady and Hotel Sagamore also could get movies that had just opened, they took pride in seeing that Arcady had first run movies. Someone from Arcady would drive on 9N to the Sagamore pick up a movie that also was seen by Sagamore patrons and bring it to us. No old 16mm films for us. On a rainy week when everyone got squirmy I remember being seen going over Black Mountain to pick up a film.
Ed Grossman
- Wednesday, November 14, 2001 at 14:09:53 (EST)
I have a number of slides of arcady, some of which were used by Ed Trenner in his Dog and Pony show for Prospects - lots of the waterfront and water Skiing, which I taught, and some of sailing, and the Hikes and Tripping as well - would be pleased to share them, If we can figure out how to do it technically - Arcady played an enormouos part in my life, in many ways. I met my first wife, Ruthanne Klingler, a Nurse, there during the summer of 1962. I consider the photos a part of my Kids heritage, but am sure we can duplicate them - Great Site, A Blast From the Past!
Phil Berrian <pberrian@ptialaska.net>
Fairbanks, AK - Tuesday, November 13, 2001 at 22:13:06 (EST)
I remember Moose singing to our group around the flagpole, particularly a song about a frog on a lillypad.
Jody (Grossman) Russell <jrussell@thundercom.net>
Saturday, October 20, 2001 at 10:29:26 (EDT)
