The New York Times, Westchester Weekly
June 16, 2002
To the Editor:
There is an important reason for the mass exodus from Westchester County to sleep-away camps by so many children and teenagers every summer (“School’s Out, and the Living Is Easy,” June 2).
Simply, sleep-away camps provide an escape — from parental supervision and the chores of daily life.
For eight fantastic weeks, kids have the opportunity to do things they have never done before, all in an environment in which it doesn’t matter if they succeed or not. Perhaps most important, sleep-away camps provide the setting for friendships and memories bound to last a lifetime.
This summer, I will return as a counselor to the tiny town of Fryeburg, Maine. There, on the slow-winding banks of the Saco River is Indian Acres Camp for Boys. I still remember my first summer there 10 years ago.
Often, I am questioned by friends who do not understand why I return to Maine when so many other opportunities present themselves.
My answer is simple: Not only am I still a camp counselor, but I’m still clinging to the camp of my childhood.
MARC B. ZAWEL
Purchase
Marc Zawel 