Sharparoon Blog

Welcome to the Sharparoon Blog. A place to renew friendships and acquaintances from years gone by. Click on the “Comments” link above to add your post. Remember that in our hearts “we all belong to Sharparoon and Sharparoon belongs to us.“

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A 2008 reunion is in the planning stage. The proposed reunion will be held on Saturday, May 24, 2008. For more information, see the Sharparoon.com home page.

Comment by Administrator — July 5, 2007 #
NYCMS has been considering eliminating its sleep over camp activities and selling the Dover Furnace property. Recently, NYCMS has commissioned a study to determine the feasibility of operations without the camping program. Victor Gonzalez has received a copy of this report and has decided to have it posted on the website. The report has been printed as an Adobe Acrobat pdf file and can be viewed by clicking here. If you wish to comment about the situation or the report, a new posting has been added to the blog to accept your input. Click here to access the NYCMS Camp Feasibility Study posting.

Comment by Administrator — June 28, 2007 #
Two items have been added to the Scrap Book page. The first item is an image of a bronze plaque that was at the US Capitol under a US Flag flown in recognition of Pat Zaccara’s contribution to camping. The second is a published version of the beautiful hand assembled booklet containing quotations, hand drawn illustrations and photos made for Cal and Alice Gertsen by Mary Liz (last name unknown) in 1966. Go to the bottom of the Scrap Book page to see both items, or Click Here to view an Adobe Acrobat file of the published version of Mary Liz’s booklet.

Comment by Administrator — June 20, 2007 #
Over thirty images have been added to the Memory Lane Slide Show. Most of the images were generated by photos supplied by Nancy Gertsen Stansfield, but there are also several recent and old images of Elsie (Tiny Alers) Markuson. The new images can also be viewed as a separate grouping. Click here to view the collection of new images.

Comment by Administrator — June 4, 2007 #
The impromptu mini camp reunion on May 19th was a real life COCOON experience for those of us who attended. In the movie COCOON three men from a nearby retirement village sneaked into an abandoned pool for a swim and discover oversized oyster shells in the water. The men suddenly feel physically and spiritually rejuvenated and believe that they have found the Fountain of Youth. Our mini reunion served as our elixir and gave us the opportunity to revisit our teen years and to share many of the stories and tales that have become a part of Sharparoon lore.

We met in Wingdale, NY ostensibly to celebrate the 150th Anniversary of the founding of the Village of Dover. Our group was like the ensemble cast in the movie; a cross section of Sharparoon Alumni rich with decades of life experiences eager to share them with old friends. Although the weather was not as wonderful as we would have liked the enthusiasm demonstrated by those who attended confirmed the fact that we all carry the Sharparoon spirit within us in our hearts.

The night before the mini reunion some of the Sharparoon Alumni attended a Boricua College Chorus concert at the Church of the Blessed Sacrament on W 71st Street in NYC. Our own Abe Lind is the Musical Director at the College and the recipient of many accolades on the performance of the Chorus. Raul & Shirley Sepulveda are members of the Chorus and participated in the program.

Comment by Victor Gonzalez — May 30, 2007 #
Vicky:

It was wonderful to talk to you on the phone yesterday. I wish I had known you were in Port St. Lucy last year. Gus and I were visiting with our friend, Denise. We could have had another mini reunion as Denise went to camp one year for Memorial Day. Maybe we can have another reunion next year. I’m all for that! It could be New York or Florida or whereever. Victor, keep this in mind. Let’s make it happen!
Tiny
Elsie Markuson

Comment by Elsie (Tiny Alers) Markuson — May 27, 2007 #
About 20 former Green Acres and Sharparoon people attended the Dover Day celebration. Nancy Gertsen Stansfield and Pat Gittens brought memorabilia and photos that will soon be posted on the website. Click here to view a slide show showing images from the Boricua College Concert, Dover Day and a Florida micro-reunion of Vicky and Hannalore.

Comment by Administrator — May 25, 2007 #
How was the reunion? Please post pictures. It’s so wonderful that at least a few of you were able to get together.

Vicky, when’s a good time to call? It seems like we have been playing phone tag. It was nice to talk to Win. I’ll try to call again this weekend.

Tiny
Elsie Markuson

Comment by Elsie (Tiny Alers) Markuson — May 22, 2007 #
I was so sorry that I couldn’t be at the reunion yesterday. I will get a full update from Adrian. I have to tell everyone that I just had my own little reunion with Hannalore Bockelman. It was so great to see her and we relived all of our Sharparoon days including all the trouble we used to get into. Thank you Butch and Victor for putting us in touch.

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — May 20, 2007 #
I’m excited about this upcoming May 19th. I haven’t been to Dover Plains in such a long time- I might drive over there just to see it.
Essie Carrington sends her regards- she won’t be able to make it. Tyrone and Roni Monro also send their regards- they also won’t be able to make it.

Comment by Pat Gittens — May 17, 2007 #
Donna P. Hearn, Dover Plains Town Historian writes:

Greetings All
Hope some of you can make it to the celebration on Saturday. (Note: The celebration is being held at Thomas J. Boyce Park on Route 55 in Wingdale, NY.) We’re having a small parade, plenty of games, historical displays, vendors, etc. Dinner is a “1800s Ox Roast” Roast beef dinner- chef from CIA in Hyde Park. Stop in the historian’s display in the room near the bands- let me know you’re here! We want you to sign our memory guest album

Comment by Administrator — May 15, 2007 #
I’m seeing so many names that bring back so many memories of my formative years. I’ve heard from Vicky Z.S. and from Victor G.

Vicky, I have your number and will call you soon.

Victor, I enjoyed seeing pictures of your family.
Give them all my love.

Tiny

Comment by Elsie (Tiny Alers) Markuson — May 11, 2007 #
ATTENTION — ATTENTION — ATTENTION

The City of Dover Plains has decided to hold their May 19th, 200th anniversary celebration in Thomas J. Boyce Park in the Village of Wingdale. Boyce Park is on the east side of NY 55 just north of the intersection with NY 22 and Dutchess County 21. Just to the south is Harlem Valley State Hospital. If you are planning to attend, we will be meeting between 1 and 2 PM at the soccer field next to the parking lot. Click here to view Dover Plain’s Website announcement describing the event.

Comment by Administrator — May 10, 2007 #
Elsie, you are still “Tiny” to me and all who knew you back in the 50’s. What a pleasant surprise to read your post. Please send me your email address. You can send it to me at victorg@sharparoon dot com. Best wishes.

Comment by Victor Gonzalez — May 9, 2007 #
I wish I could be there for the reunion but living in Texas makes it a little difficult. Please know that my thoughts and prayers will be with you. I hope you all have a wonderful, joyous time and will keep me informed with comments and pictures. PS: I’m not Tiny anymore!

Comment by Elsie (Tiny Alers) Markuson — May 9, 2007 #
I’m working on being able to go…I still have more pictures and stuff that I haven’t sent to this website yet… I hope we have a big turnout…

Comment by Pat Gittens — May 6, 2007 #
ATTENTION —- ATTENTION —- ATTENTION

On May 19, 2007 the City of Dover Plains will celebrate their 200th anniversary and Ms Donna Peterson Hearn, the Town’s Historian, and former DuPlessis Drug Store employee has graciously extended an invitation to Sharparoon and Minisink Alumni to join in the town’s celebration. Hopefully, many of us who are within driving distance of the town will attend the town’s celebration and use the opportunity to hold an impromptu mini camp reunion. Let’s plan to meet on the 19th between 1 and 2PM in the vicinity of the Dover Plains railroad station near Mill St.

Since our appearance has changed during the past half century lets all consider wearing a small piece of maroon ribbon over our hearts so that we can easily identify each other. Them bones are going to rise again.

Comment by Victor Gonzalez — April 24, 2007 #
Hi There Debbie and Susan!!!! I’m so glad you both have checked in.. Debbie- Viola has my number!.. sorry that I haven’t been to the qebsite in such a while… and I do have more pictures. I saw Lotus Do and Sheryl McQuillan a fw weeks ago.. both are fine. We all still need to work on some kind of reunion soon!!!
See ya !!!

Comment by Pat Gittens — April 19, 2007 #
Greetings - Pat Gittens and to all who were blessed to have the opportunity to spend wonderous time at Sharparoon, Green Acres or Teen Valley. May your memories of good times and all types of caring people in a fun filled envirnoment serve you well. Many thanks to Steve-Web Master and administrator. - Great site. The staff picture is from 1972. I hope you and your family are well and prosperous. Interesting note The actress from Yale that played Tina Turner was a Pinehollow counselor. The attorney for one of the 911 defendants was a Scats counselor and SCD. Angela Basset and Tony Ricco

Comment by Susan Braswell — March 27, 2007 #
GREETINGS–PAT GITTENS AND ALL–OH THE MEMORIES..SO MANY..GA..SHARPAROON..TV..DICK PEASE AND FAMILY..JENOURS..SOTOS..HARVEYS..CINDY ROBINSON..DENNIS DOVE..DOUG WARE..NEFTALI..TOMMY BRYANT..ESSIE THE NURSE..NAOMI AND GATSY (ONLY THE BEST COOKS ).BALL MT..TRUCK NITES..GORRY GULCH..WATERMELON BABY..IROQUOI NATION ..BMEN..SCATS..PINE HALLOW..WESTWARD HO..WILDERNESS..TRADITIONS ..CHEERS..CIT..JR STAFF..CHRISTMAS IN JULY..PARTIES..TALENT SHOWS..HIKES-YIKES..OH MY OVERNIGHTS!!..RICE CRISPY CRUNCHIES..ROW BOATS..CRAFTS..NEVER EVER WANTING SUMMER TO END!!!..HEY PAT WHEN YOU CALLED YOU DIDNT LEAVE A NUMBER?…HOPING TO SEE FOLKS SOON..PEACE

Comment by debbie york — March 13, 2007 #
Hey Jeff, you can e mail me as sg4430 at hotmail dot com. This goes to all my camp friends. God Bless you all. Robert Melendez

Comment by Robert Melendez — February 15, 2007 #
Victor:
I just finished looking at all your family pictures, and saw that your daughter lives in Leesburg VA. I’M only ten miles from Leesburg. I guess you know that I finally reconnected with Vicky, and Bob Reiss, through the Sharparoon website. If you ever get up this way, I’D really like to get together. My E-mail address is ’sterlinggent at msn dot com’ I’M assuming you do remember me?

Comment by Corky Bienacker — February 10, 2007 #
Reinaldo “Rennie” Rodriguez just posted a comment in the Guestbook blog. To view the comment click here.

Comment by Administrator — February 7, 2007 #
Hi all,
It seems that there have not been many visits, and I am at fault too. I just wanted to say hi to all and we are doing well. Robbie, I lost your #’s email them to me again! I hope all is well with everyone, and we should not stop visiting this sight, including me!!!
Jeff

Comment by Jeff Jenoure — February 3, 2007 #
hello everyone..sooo many good times to remember..i recall a story about watermelon baby..great overnights on our version of bald mountain. camp raids on each other at night.wonderful camp songs..i still think of everyone often ; and hope to see all someday soon..

Comment by donald "ducky" york — January 31, 2007 #
The Manzo Twins and Dan Kuzyk added this comment today under Guestbook Postings:

Happy Holidays and our best wishes for 2007 from Double Trouble and the Judge, Dan. We are all in Tampa enjoying one another and sharing old stories of Camp Sharparoon. Singing the songs and refreshing in the Sharparoon camp spirit that has never left our memories. Sue married the lucky Dr.Joseph. I married Alan Parker, Also Judge Dan Kuzyk is visiting, he is just lots of fun.
Write, Love Myrna

Comment by Administrator — January 1, 2007 #
MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR TO ALL OF MY DEAR OLD FRIENDS FROM SHARPAROON AND GREEN ACRES. MAY THE NEW YEAR BRING YOU ALL MANY BLESSINGS, NEW HOPE, AND PEACE.

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — December 24, 2006 #
Four Green Acres and Sharparoon staff pictures, submitted by Pat Gittens, have been added to the blog Staff Photos Page, and a photo of the 1952 Kitchen Boys, submitted by Victor Gonzalez, has been added to the Slide Show - Camp Staff page. In addition, a special page displaying these photos has been created for those that are only interested in viewing that added photos. To view the photos, either access the Staff Photos Page and the Memory Lane staff photo collection, or click here to view the special page.

Comment by Administrator — November 26, 2006 #
I just want to take the time to wish all of the Past campers and their familys a very Happy and Safe Thanksgiving. God Bless you all. And remember THEM BONES GONNA RISE AGAIN!!!

Comment by Robert Melendez — November 22, 2006 #
I just wanted to publicly thank Steve for all his hard work, in keeping this web site going. I hsve had a phone call from Vicky, and we now E-mail each other. Steve’s brother BOB and I were good friends at camp, and after fifty years, we have also connected. I hope others will start getting on to this site. It would be wonderful to find other friends, after all these years. Again, thanks Steve.
Corky

Comment by Art (Corky) Bienacker — November 10, 2006 #
Hi Corky. What a great surprise. It was so nice to hear from you and to see that you live in Virginia. We lived in Williamsburg, VA for 13 years before moving to Florida. We really miss it. Can’t wait to catch up. I will call you today or tomorrow. Thanks for putting the big smile on my face. Vicky

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — October 14, 2006 #
Vicky, I just logged on to this site for the first time. Wow! what memories. I just finished reading all the blogs, and learned a lot about people I haven’t seen in fifty years. My wife and I visited Sharparoon about twenty years ago, when we wnet to Conneticut to see friends. I was kind of surprised at the condition of the camp, and was really sad to read that the City Mission Society has closed it down, and is putting it up for sale. I read that you have a son Jeff in Charlotesville Va. I live about an hour and a half from there in Sterling Va.I would love to get in touch with you, to get caught up on old times.My E-mail address will change in a few days.
I’M at 703-437-9140. I would love to hear from you.
Art “Corky” Bienacker

Comment by Corky Bienacker — October 13, 2006 #
I’ve been looing through the pictures and realize that the 60’s don’t seem to represented. I was a camper at the time but I’m sure I must have a few pictrues ( or maybe my mother who was at Green Acres.)
HOWEVER while looking for pictures for an upcoming college reunion ( d somewhere. id anyone go to C.W. Post College?) I found some staff pictures from the 70’s and more that I just knew I had . I’ll be sending them in.
.. I remember having Christmas in July…

Comment by Pat Gittens — October 12, 2006 #
Steve,Thanks so much for adding those pictures, emailing me when you did and giving me easy to read directions to find them

Comment by Alpha Lupoletti Rogers — September 24, 2006 #
Hi Vicki, I receieved an email from Steve and went to Memory lane to see our picture and then off to the scrapbook to see the church. It looks so much larger than I remembered it.Why did they tear that beautiful building down?
Showed out picture to my husband he didn’t recognize me! Imagine that.

Comment by Alpha Lupoletti Rogers — September 24, 2006 #
Hi Alpha, I sent Steve the picture I was talking about with you and me when we were quite young. He will be posting it next week. See if you know who the kids on the far right and left are. I know I know them and can’t place names to the faces. Vicky

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — September 19, 2006 #
I just looked through Tom Fell’s photos. Was surprised and pleased to see the photo of my family….I remember that day…we drove Tom and John down to the Bear Mountain Bridge to start their hike on the Appalachian Trail. If I remember correctly it was quite a wash out. I’m sure it was a disappointment to them. The picture of my family is a good one….thank you for posting it.

Does anyone have any idea what happened to Eddie Esposito???

Comment by Nancy Gertsen Stansfield — September 14, 2006 #
Hi Tom Fell, Your pictures are great. It sure was good to see all those familiar faces. What have you been up to? Tell us about yourself and what you have been doing these many years. Who have you kept in touch with. With fond memories, Vicky

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — September 12, 2006 #
Tom Fell (1958 Waterfront Director, 1959 Iroquois Counselor) has sent in 16 new photos. These photos have been integrated into the Memory Lane Slideshow. In addition, a special slideshow (not part of Memory Lane) has been created to view Tom’s photos as a group. A link to these photos has been placed on the sharparoon.com home page or you can click here to view this special slide show.

Comment by Administrator — September 12, 2006 #
This may be a repeat my second cheer is posted but not the first one. If I am redundant I apologize. The cheer was
We are the girls of wilderness you hear so much about. The people stop and stare at us whenever we go out. We’re noted for our decent ways in everything we do. Most everybody likes us. We hope you like us too. Yeah Wilderness!

Comment by Alpha Lupoletti Rogers — September 8, 2006 #
Ok i thought about it. Spelling may be off and probably can use some correction but here goes
Ai yi ki ik us nobody like us We are the girls of Wilderness Always a winning always a grinning always a feelin fine Ai Yi!

Comment by Alpha Lupoletti Rogers — September 8, 2006 #
I just updated the 1956 and 1958 staff photos to include Lou Rotando’s name. I was saddened to learn that Fred was killed after his Viet Nam service. I remember both Fred and Lou – we were all CITs in 1955. That year, the male CITs were Bob and Steve Reiss, Corky, Serge, Lou and Fred, the fellow in ‘Going Home’ photo entitled ‘Summer Romance’ and one other member that I can’t recall. Our counselor was Don Thelwell.

As I recall, both Lou and Fred attended Brooklyn Tech and were ‘Techies’. In 1955, they both brought miner’s head gas lanterns to camp. This was my first introduction to white gas light where acetylene gas is generated by dripping water on carbide.

Comment by Steve Reiss — September 7, 2006 #
Stan,

I took and posted the photo’s labeled Jim Muir. I remembered his first name as Jim, but since the photos are over 50 years old, I could be wrong. If you’re really sure that his first name was Richard, I will re-caption the photos.

Several months ago, Nancy Gertsen posted a comment in the Reunion posting asking about your brother. Perhaps, you may want to reply.

Comment by Steve Reiss — September 6, 2006 #
Just looked at all those photos. How young we all were. Noticed photos marked as Jim Muir.I remember a Richard Muir. I didn’t think there were two different people. Tell me if any one knows whether there were more than one Muir’s. I saw my late friend Fred Antemann in one of the staff photos who died many years ago following his service as a copter pilot in Viet Nam. Next to him is Lou Rotando who has been a Math Prof at West Comm College. My cousin, Alpha just alerted me to the photo updates. So many familiar faces.

Comment by stanley e esposito — September 6, 2006 #
Thanks Vicky, I just viewed all the pictures and I could just cry. What a great time it was. It is such a big part of my past! I would love to see the pic from Broome St

Comment by Alpha Lupoletti Rogers — September 5, 2006 #
Vicky,

Thanks for the 1958 “Christmas In July” article by Cal Gertsen. It really helped me remember all the details of that wonderful celebration. For those Sharparooners that have not yet read it, please click on the Scrapbook tab and scroll down to the top page of the “Christmas In July” item. Click on the image to view the full three page article.

Comment by Steve Reiss — September 3, 2006 #
Hi Alpha, On the right side of the blog page there is a heading called Blogroll, click on Camp Sharparoon Website and then on Memory Lane on the right side. Or you can go to www.sharparoon.com which is the main site. On the right side click on Memory Lane and you will get the different catagories the pictures are in. Have fun. I just came across a picture of us when we were little at Broome St. I am going to send it to Steve.

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — September 2, 2006 #
I cannot find the 200 pics Steve put out here. How do I access them? Help!

Comment by Alpha Lupoletti Rogers — September 1, 2006 #
Hey, did you see Donald Rumsfeld in the “In and Around the Mess Hall 1953 Kitchen Boys” picture?

Comment by Angel Luis Martinez — August 31, 2006 #
Hi Vicki, after a day of working in a psychiatrist office and all that it entails I don’t need Zoloft, I need my sharparoon fix. I usually go on between 11:00 pm and 12:30 am, that’s my relaxation time. I sit here laughing out loud that sometimes I wake up poor Joe, he then looks at the computer smiles and says “It figures”. So people take pity on me and keep the comments coming. Vicki, I have been filling in some of the missing names on the memory lane site. Thanks! for your entries I laughed so hard tears were running down my face. By the way I spoke to Irene and she confessed that she finally went I her email and found 25 messages, the first one was yours. She promised she would be answering it soon. I love my friends, thank God they never really change. Again my many thanks to Steve for all the hard work. It’s paid off, for one thing you got three good friends keeping in touch and working on getting together in the very near future.

Comment by Adrian Soto — August 30, 2006 #
Hi everyone, Have you seen all of the pictures that Steve Reiss has put on the blog? There are over 200 pictures. I am enjoying looking at them so much. I have been wondering if all of the people that have written on the Blog are still reading it. The last message was Aug. 4th. I am getting worried that if we don’t get more participation we may not be able to keep the site and have a reunion. Then what will I do for my daily Sharparoon fix??? Maybe if we each call up 2 or 3 Sharparooners and get them active on here it will help. If each of you that reads this would just write something to say you are there, I will feel better. I just sent Steve a Brochure that Cal Gertsen did in 1958 on Christmas in July. I am in it dancing with one of the Councelors from Liberia. Does anyone remember his name. Nancy Gertsen is in there trimming the Christmas tree. Look for it.

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — August 28, 2006 #
A new tab has been added to the top of the blog page entitled Camp Songs. On this page you will find a copy of the ‘Dear Old Oak’ and links to 12 other songs including the recently posted ‘No Man Is An Island’ and Vicky’s ‘Goat Song’.

Comment by Administrator — August 4, 2006 #
OHHHH Hi Rose Harvey.. I’m so glad that you found the website too! I was never very fgood at art but you made everything seem so easy for things to come out wonderful! I don’t remember Selina but I do remember your sweet sister Anne. My condolenses to you and the rest of your family. And how is the rest of your family?
Pat Gittens..Jr. Staff 1965-66 ( I think..I’m still working out the years!)

Comment by Pat Gittens — August 3, 2006 #
Opps, I was Program Director in 1965 - 1971..sorry about that
Rose Duran-Harvey

Comment by Rose Duran-Harvey — July 27, 2006 #
Hi,

You may not remember me for the moment, but I am Rose Duran or Rose Harvey..younger sister of the Duran twins-Anne and Selina, both of whom have past on and have had trees planted in Green Arces in their memory.

Ruth and Delia Susarret, I was your baby sitter in the early days.

Abe Lind, we were comrades at the Church of Good Neighbor.

Ralph and Shirley Sepulveda…What can I say about our long term Sharparoon relationship in both church and camp.

I was a camper and later came back as staff at Sharparoon. I participated in the Pioneer group at Sharparoon as a teen and then came back as Program Director in Sharparoon from 1969-1974.

I have lots of pics to share and will dig in my stack to find them and upload to the website.

Oh, I’m so glad to have found this website…Sharparoon spirit never dies….

Rose Duran-Harvey

Comment by Rose Duran-Harvey — July 27, 2006 #
Tim Greene, I saw your comment on the memory lane. Where are you? I was so glad to see your name. Can’t wait to fill in. I think it was about 12 years ago that we talked. My email address is vzs118 at bellsouth dot net Vickily

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — July 27, 2006 #
Hi Adrian,
I’m glad that you and other former Sharparooners enjoy the pictures and I’m glad that I kept my negatives for all these years. As I scan and view them, I try to remember when I took them and the events of the day – 50 years ago. That effort brings on an avalanche of pleasant memories! Vicky has sent in a large number of images of campers and staff. Two of these pictures include you and they will be displayed sometime in August in a new section entitled ‘Post Camp Photos’.
I was at camp from 1951 through 1960 (excluding 1953 and 1956). Perhaps Vicky has told you that I have a very good memory about camp experiences, places, events and people. Believe it or not, even though we never really talked to each other at camp, I do remember you – perhaps because you were one of Vicky’s friends.
We seniors have come a long way! When we first went to camp, the trains were pulled by steam locomotives and we had wait at North White Plains to get hooked up to an electric engine for the trek to Grand Central Station. Now we have joined the age of the internet, cell phones and, yes, TiVo!

Comment by Steve Reiss — July 18, 2006 #
Hi Steve, I was a camper from ‘49 through’55 then in ‘56 I was a C.I.T.at Green Acres. Thanks for the great job you’re doing in taking over the Blog. The slide show is spectacular. Now when the grandkids come over and want to use the computer they have to wait until grandma is done going through the Sharparoon Blog.Please understand that before the Blog I never but never emailed anyone,I phoned!(Vicki can verify this).So you see besides remembering the good ole days,I can finally say that I’ve joined the electronic age.I’m now working on TiVo.Ugh!!

Comment by Adrian Soto — July 17, 2006 #
Please checkout the new Memory Lane slideshow page. There are over 100 photos displayed and new photos are being added every week. You can access this page by going to the main sharparoon.com page and clicking on the Memory Lane link. Also, the Mystery Pix page has been updated. You now can record your answers on a Blog post. The link to this page is also located on the main sharparoon.com page.

Comment by Administrator — July 16, 2006 #
Two new posts have been added to the main page of this Blog. The first, Small Camp Cheers, lists our best recollection of the small camp cheers and requests readers to list corrections as comments. It does not include the Ah Wilderness cheer and requests that any reader add a comment if they remember the cheer, or any part of the cheer. The latest post is the announcement that the first postings have been made to the Guestbook. Click on the Guestbook tab above to view guestbook entries. Entries that are colored blue are linked to pages that display pictures and text submitted by guestbook signers. In about a week, a new posting will be made about photos displayed in the Memory Lane section displayed on the Sharparoon.com main page. A new slide show viewer will be available with an initial release of 85 photos. More photos will be added throughout the summer until the show contains over 200 photos. Be sure to check the main Blog page about changes and additions to this Blog.

Comment by Administrator — July 2, 2006 #
Thanks Robert for sending that in.. I had forgotten the Sharparoon cheer ( shame on me!)
I’m sure his experience could be multiplied scores of times…
We often lost track of the many counselors who came from other countries- I wonder what sticks out in their memories?
Pat Gittens

Comment by Pat Gittens — July 1, 2006 #
I wanted to share this with you all. It is an article that was written in Reader Digest that I found. It was under celebrities first jobs. I hope you all enjoy it. God Bless. (signed) Robert Melendez

The Camp Counselor

What did I learn at Camp Sharparoon? I still remember a number of really stupid cheers that are taking up valuable space in my brain that could be occupied by things like when exactly is my wife’s birthday. Winiko-Winako-Winik-Winak-Wino-Maroon-Maroon-Sharparoon!

I was 17 and my job was to try to keep eight fairly active ten-, 11- and 12-year-olds from killing one another or themselves. Among other activities, I would take them camping in the woods outside Dover Plains, N.Y. I learned that if you are going to be in the woods for a couple of days, take frosted flakes. You can eat them for breakfast, lunch and dinner, you don’t have to cook them and they don’t weigh as much as your meats and vegetables. I’ll never touch another frosted flake as long as I live.

The camp was for low-income youngsters from New York City. I was a suburban kid, and a wonderful thing about the job was that it exposed me to different people: kids from the inner city and college students from exotic places like Minnesota.

Being out in the woods with the kids was a little scary. I suddenly realized these are actually somebody’s children and I’m responsible for them. Not one of them to my knowledge ever died on me, although occasionally there were bee stings.

I found myself being an authority figure because I had to. On a camping trip we stopped at a lake to pitch our tents. I was the only white person in the group. We were swimming when these white kids in a motorboat began yelling racial taunts and trying to splash us. The assistant counselor and I had no choice but to warn them, “If you come anywhere near these kids, we’ve written down the number of your boat and we’re going to call the cops.”

They yelled more stuff but finally left. That experience was the biggest test of responsibility I had ever faced.

When I returned to high school after that first summer, it seemed a lot less intimidating than before. Plus, I had earned $375, which after trips to the camp candy store was down to eight cents’ clear profit.

Dave Barry is a syndicated humor columnist with the Miami Herald. His column also appears in about 600 other newspapers.

Comment by Robert Melendez — June 26, 2006 #
Hi Donald..I’m so glad you got the info to visit this website. I hope the rest of your famiy can check in and please pass on this info to whomever you stay in contact with ( ie Doug Ware).
You’re part of my wonderful memories of Camp.
Love, Pat

Comment by Pat Gittens — June 14, 2006 #
Hi Vicki, Talking about that poor old goat he coughed up them shirts and flagged the train(and flagged the train). P.S. how about that Oak tree? Irene and I were trying like crazy to remember the words. Hey out there,can anyone come up with the words.Vicki believe it or not I sent you any email after Irene and Johns visit. It you receive it? Hope to hear from you soon. love Adrian.

Comment by Adrian Soto — June 13, 2006 #
hello to everyone from ducky and the whole York family..wish we could all make the reunion. i’ll be there in memories..love ya’ll
Donald York

Comment by donald york — June 13, 2006 #
Does anyone remember the song that was led by Dottie Manning. She would sing a line and then we would repeat that line. Below is as much as I remember. We would love to have the rest for a songbook of some kind. I know that the goat coughed up the three red shirts and flaged the train but I can’t remember the rest of the words.

THERE WAS A MAN ( THERE WAS A MAN) NAMED NATHAN SLOAN (NAMED NATHAN SLOAN) HE HAD A GOAT (HE HAD A GOAT) HE CALLED HIS OWN (HE CALLED HIS OWN) NOW THIS HERE GOAT (NOW THIS HERE GOAT) WAS A FEELING FINE (WAS A FEELING FINE) ATE THREE RED SHIRTS (ATE THREE RED SHIRTS) OFF OF NATHAN’S LINE (OFF OF NATHAN’S LINE) WHEN NATHAN SAW (WHEN NATHAN SAW) WHAT THE GOAT HAD DONE (WHAT THE GOAT HAD DONE) HE SAID NOW GOAT (HE SAID NOW GOAT) YOUR TIME HAS COME (YOUR TIME HAS COME) SO HE TOOK HIM DOWN (SO HE TOOK HIM DOWN) TO THE RAILROAD TRACKS (TO THE RAILROAD TRACKS) AND TIED HIM THERE (AND TIED HIM THERE) SO HE’D NEVER COME BACK (SO HE’D NEVER COME BACK) WHEN THE TRAIN CAME ALONG (WHEN THE TRAIN CAME ALONG) AND THE WHISTLE BLEW (AND THE WHISTLE BLEW) THAT POOR GOAT KNEW (THAT POOR GOAT KNEW) HIS TIME WAS THROUGH (HIS TIME WAS THROUGH)——-
Thanks. Vicky

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — June 12, 2006 #
Some of us “old guys” just keep getting offers we can’t refuse. Best of luck in your new endeavors, Victor. I, too, offer my best wishes and thanks for your efforts on all of our behalf.

Mickey, send me an email at angelmartinez1940 at yahoo dot com. (Written this way so that spammers can’t get at it).

Comment by Angel Martinez — June 9, 2006 #
Victor, I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the time you spent getting the Sharparoon site up and running, I’m sure it has brought many a tear into the eyes of thousands of old campers like myself. I,m sure that Steve and Hector will continue to do the work that has to be done, they are both very qualified, and have the spirit of Sharparoon deep in their hearts. I would like to take this opportunity to wish you and your family the very best of luck and health in your new endeavor. All my love always.
Mickey

Comment by Mickey Castaneda — June 6, 2006 #
I have relocated to Ohio and have accepted employment that will cause me to travel outside the US and thus limit my involvement with the Children of Sharparoon organization. Effective immediately, Hector Cruzado will assume complete responsibility for the Sharparoon Website and Steve Reiss will be the Administrator for the Sharparoon Blog. Any questions, submissions or comments on these projects should be directed to Hector or Steve individually at the email addresses listed by their respective names.

I enjoyed having the opportunity to reconnect with so many of you after so many years; more than 50 years in some cases, but somehow it seemed like it was only yesteday. I appreciated your cooperation and support and hope that you will continue to work with Hector & Steve in making the Blog and Website a place to visit on a daily basis. I have noticed that the postings have slowed down in the past few weeks and I encourage you to continue to post often.

There is some new information on the 2006 Camp Sharparoon Reunion that will be posted on the Website in a few days that will be of major interest to all. I’ll see you at the Reunion. Thank you. Victor

Comment by Victor Gonzalez — June 5, 2006 #
Victor, unfortunately I was not blessed with the opportunity to take pictures of any of the seven years I attended Sharparoon and Teen Valley. If it were possible I would have sent in pictures long ago. As I stated before, most of the people that I met only came to camp for maybe one summer. This is probably the reason noone has responded from that time. Most of them I saw one summer and the next summer there was a totally new group. But I thought that someone might have enjoyed it so much and would have heard about this website. Who knows maybe one day I will come on and someone will have sent in pictures that I might be able to recognize. Thanks for the suggestion. Linda

Comment by Linda Gowins — May 18, 2006 #
For those of you who have yet to see the “Scrapbook,” please do. It provides a very good background about the evolution of camping at Sharparoon, including what I think can be called the early “Golden years.” Thank you very much, Vickie Z. Sapiro, for sharing this wonderful compendium. It will help a great deal in planning and implementing a modern version of a program that we hope will become a reality.

Comment by Jose Melendez — May 16, 2006 #
Linda, how about sending in photos of the two years when you were at Sharparoon & Teen Valley. We will post the photo in our up coming Teen Valley section and you will be surprised how many Sharpirits will remember you.

Comment by Victor Gonzalez — May 15, 2006 #
It is nice reading the different excerpts from my fellow Sharparoon family, however, I am still looking forward to hearing from someone who attended Camp Sharparoon and Teen Valley during the years I was there. I attended Sharparoon from 1972 through 1976 and Teen Valley from 1977 -78. After my second year at Teen Valley, Camp Sharparoon was closed and Minisink took over. I hope to hear from someone who remembers me. The time I spent at Sharparoon was the best of my childhood. Although, many of the people that attended during the time I was there had only spent one or two summers coming to camp, it would still be nice to hear from them.

Linda Silva(Gowins)

Comment by Linda Gowins — May 14, 2006 #
Sharpirits who attended the 25th Anniversary Boricua Chorus presentation yesterday May 7, 2006, had nothing but high praise for the artists and their performances. Everyone agreed that the concert was truly wonderful and that it was so great to see and hear the enormous talent that this group possesses. Abe Lind was terrific. During his last performance, while singing el Jibarito, Abe became a bit emotional and experienced some sort of heart palpitation. He was taken off the stage and taken to a hospital. He was released from the hospital earlier today and this afternoon I had an opportunity to speak with him. Abe described the problem as a malfunction in his defibrillator (he needed a minor tuneup). Abe is home, he is well and extremely pleased by the turnout. He felt bad that he did not have an opportunity to greet the many Sharpirits who attended the presentation.

Comment by Victor Gonzalez — May 8, 2006 #
Nancy and Glenn, Hannalore and Butch - Do you have any staff photos that we can add to Camp Staff page?

Comment by Steve Reiss — May 7, 2006 #
The things I remember about sharparoon as a camper:
Karl the “Voodsman” shouting to our camp site from the top of the hill and surprising us 15 minutes later after running down the hill;
Swimming the lake;
the view from the chapel of the lake in the morning at services;
a night on bald mountain;
just getting to bald mountain in the summer heat with packs;
making a “sleeping bag” out of blankets;
the lack of hot water in the showers;
learning how to row a boat;
on visitors sunday, seeing one of the toughest campers dive in after a ball forgetting the he couldn’t swim;
singing in the mess hall after lunch;
the counselors: David R. G. Brown from England, Hugo from Cuba;
As a staff memeber at Green Acres:
going to town in the green and white staff shirts with the initials GA and identifying ourselves as members of the “Green Arrow” fan club;
Dumping the camp director Andres Diaz in the pond;
“Southern Bells” with big claps;
The beginnings of my interest in photography;
The beginnings of love of travel meeting people from Oberlin College, Ohio, North Carolina, Florida;
Being “terminally” ill from food poisoning and having Dave tell me “How can I be sick in the infirmary when we were having prumes for breakfast.”
Regards to all. I will search for my pictures.
Alex Lopez

Comment by Alex Lopez — May 5, 2006 #
Looking for Staff and Campers of Camp Green Acres and Camp Minisink years dating from 1979 through 1989. You knew me as JIM one of the Head Caretakers for the Dover Plains Camping Complex. I’m alive and well. I have relocated to the Endicott NY area. Been here since 1995. Hope to here from you. Any old Tapawingo Society Members please contact me.
MJBreason61@Yahoo.com
TAP84′

Comment by Malcolm James Breason — April 28, 2006 #
Hi Adrian, I sure do remember that. Gloria took over an hour to pull out the stingers. It was so great to talk to Irene. It is like time has stood still. That is how it has been with you and I over the years. No matter how much time passes it is as if we talk every day. We were all such special friends both at camp and at home. That will always be the case. I am going to call Cleo as soon as I sign off. You can’t make Arroz Con Pollo without me!@# Love, Vicky

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — April 26, 2006 #
Hi Vicki, I’m so glad you and Irene got to catch up, it’s like old times. Irene and I are trying to set a date so that she and John can come over for a visit. It would be great,good company added with some arroz con pollo. I can hardly wait until we can all get together in Oct. Remember when we went hiking to Wingdale and I fell into a nest of yellow jackets. That was a memorable moment! Your Dad and Gloria were great,they were so concerned. I knew nothing about anaphylactic shock. Ignorance is bliss!! Adrian

Comment by Adrian Soto — April 26, 2006 #
Hi Bob Reiss, Great to hear from you on the blog. Isn’t this great. It is amazing that when you read everyone’s comments we all have the same feelings and the many of the same memories. I talked to Irene last night and renewed so many old memories. I will be talking to Cleo today. So Doctor Bob, just remember that I knew you when! That is so wonderful that you have offered your help to the campers. Stay in touch and hopefully we will all see each other in October. Vicky

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — April 25, 2006 #
Irene and Cleo where are you? I can’t wait to hear from you both. I answered each of your first letters but I have a feeling that you couldn’t find my answer. It was right when the blog was having a problem. If you go back to March 18th you will find my note. It begins “I have been like a lost sheep” Hurry and write again.

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — April 24, 2006 #
Thank you, Pat. You said it all. I am sorry that I was unable to be at Gerry’s memorial service. He was an extra special person whom I know helped many, many persons. In my case, he was actually the one who was most instrumental in my going to college. Yes, his spirit will always shine. I have a hunch that he is smiling right now and enjoying the Sharprit initiative.

Incidentally, please give my regards to your mom, Stephanie and Rodney. You had mentioned that you maintain contact with Lotus Do. Please pass on my best wishes to her and her family. I also remember her mom, Cornelia, whom I believe was the first crafts counselor at Green Acres in 1956. I am looking forward to seeing all of you at the reunion, which we hope will be held in the Fall.

Comment by Jose Melendez — April 23, 2006 #
Hi Again Family!,
I haven’t left any comments for some time even though I check in every few days for new commens and continue reading through the older posted ones. I also intended to mention one name of one of the “older” leaders- Dr. Gerald Davenport. I’m glad that Jose ( hi Jose) mentioned him. For those who don’t know, he passsed away last year. This is definitely a small world- my family found out from a family friend whose brother was ill and happened to share the same hospital (hospice) rom with him. Even through his illness, our frined told us how friendly, knowledgeable and humorous Jerry was. When he mentioned City Mission & Sharparoon, our friend figured out that we should know him. But the connection and pasing along of this info didn’t take place until after his funeral. But we were able to make the wonderful and largely attendeded memorial program for him. I knew him because he conducted in-city C.I.T. classes-he taught us about psychology, ego, self esteem and other matters about the mind,spirit and behavior. We were able to give him preparation for the off-the-wall comments that would come from the minds of teenagers before his sons got to that age ( LOL)
Sharparoon Spirits never die- and never will his!

Comment by Pat Gittens — April 23, 2006 #
It feels good to read that so many of you share similar feelings about having maintained the Sharparoon spirit throughout life. I am thrilled to read the wonderful comments from so many old friends. I often wondered about many of you, yearned to know what you have been doing all of these years, and hoped that you are well. I am very hopeful that with your help we can provide the Sharprit initiative with a great boost. More on that later…

Right now I want to add a few personal notes. Ever since I was in my twenties I realized how important many of the people who worked for (or were affiliated with) the old City Mission are to me. In an earlier posting I mentioned a few by name. I feel a need to add a few more that helped guide me during my transition to adulthood and beyond. Those very special persons include Willy Arroyo (Sunday school teacher and substitute coach), Joe and Adrian Soto (Sunday school teachers), Carl Flemister (Pastor of the English-speaking congregation at the Crossroads Church), Gerald Davenport (City Mission Social Worker and High School Conference Dean), John Grant (Choir Director and Youth Worker), Luis Sepúlveda (former Green Acres Director), Richard Pease (Church of the Crossroads Pastor and my boss when I directed Green acres), and Victor Gonzalez (Sunday School Teacher, Basketball Coach, and Youth Counselor). I learned many life lessons from those folks. I am forever indebted to them.

More next time…

Comment by Jose Melendez — April 21, 2006 #
TO ALL:
What a magnificent development this is. Thank you Victor G. for your fabulous work. Thank you for posting the announcement of the SILVER ANNIVERSARY CONCERT OF THE BORICUA COLLEGE CHORUS.

For the younger set, my name is Abraham Lind- Oquendo. I am the Sharparoonite that became a professional opera singer and returned after years in Europe and Israel to found and direct the BORICUA COLLEGE CHORUS.

BORICUA COLLEGE was founded and is still headed by another Sharparoonite, DR. VICTOR G. ALICEA.

Many Sharparoonites have been and are in our roster of singers, among them the SEPULVEDA CLAN (Raul, Shirley, and Delia Susarret). Others include Luisa Gonzales and Frank Cannella.

What an incredible and exquisite tribute to us it would be if you attended this concert. The announcement appears on the WEBSITE.

PLEASE HONOR US.

With Love to All,

Abe

Comment by Abraham Lind — April 18, 2006 #
I had not visited the site in a while and when I did, MAN was I blown away with how many of my old memories are back (anyone else have the same experience?) it’s as if time has gone in reverse, why are my memories of 50 years ago clearer to me now then what I had for breakfast yesterday? Hilda Melendez, it was so wonderful to read your comments, you know we were at camp the same times, even many years later as “Young Marrieds” we would go to Green Acres, the guys would play either football or basketball (I always wanted to be on Gil’s team because he was a lot of fun, me I would always like to argue and cheat) those were great times. Sugar, I remember waiting for you by the gate to the girls area, then walking with you to the Playlodge Porch, the stars and moon would be our only light (you were beautiful by moonlight). Jose Melendez, do you remember one year at High School Conference, some of the guys had a sit-up contest? I quit after 10 but you and some of the guys kept going and going, you won that contest by doing what seemed like a million sit-ups, but you could not move the next day, remember? Angel Martinez, how are you my dear friend? I don’t know if I ever told you, but you are one of my biggest “IDOLS” I was always in awe of your story, how you overcame your great obstacles to become such a great young man and an inspirations to so many others, the years I’m sure have been good to you because you still have your great sense of humor (You didn’t have to rat on Joe though) I’m honored that you remember me. Well, I’ll be back later______ Pass the bug juice.
Mickey

Comment by Mickey Castaneda — April 14, 2006 #
It’s amazing how many memories are resurfacing- and with them- how Camp became a solid foundation/example for how we could live our lives. I think back to the skills I had to learn either as a camper or staff. I remember how to set trail markers, how to tell if stream water was good enough to drink, how to bake a cake in the ground,building a lean-to, a toileting structure, etc.And you can bet that each one of these have a funny side story attached to it. I’m not a singer but I learned a mulitude of songs throughout my camp years that I used later.And it was after my camping years that I found out how many songs and cheers had been adapted from much older songs….Jesus Walked This Lonesome Valley… No Man Is an Island…
Who are all those children dressed in Red…Oh Children go where I send thee…Rise and Shine…
Enough for now!!

Comment by Pat Gittens — April 14, 2006 #
Hi,

After getting on the website early this morning I began singing the songs and remembering other stories about Camp. I remember one time when I was in Teen Valley and we had to go on that three day, two night hike in the woods. Once at the campsite the counselors realized that they had forgotten something back at the camp. These were not counselors that had grown up at Camp Sharparoon and one of them had to go back to the camp. I was recruited to lead them back because I had been going to the camp for so long. I think the campsite was Iroquois Overlook but I am not sure. I was so excited to be able to lead someone down the trail back to the camp I don’t even remember having any fear of not making it or of getting lost.

Another thing I can remember are the Candle Light services on the lake on the very last night of camp. I remember thinking that I didn’t want to go to the service because it would bring me to the reality that our time at camp was coming to an end and I never wanted it to come to an end.

Well, that’s all for now will come back soon with more stories.

Linda

Comment by Linda Gowins — April 12, 2006 #
Dear Sharparoon Friends,

It was a wonderful surprise to have learned about this site from my brother, Steve Reiss. It has already allowed me to renew old treasured memories and gives me the hope of perhaps renewing some friendships, as well. Searching through the posted photos and identifying faces, my own included, is great fun. I was touched that Cleo Dreyer remembered and asked about me in one of her postings. Thank you, Cleo. After my years as a camper and then counselor during the 1950s, and following my graduation from college, my involvement with Sharparoon ended as I entered medical school and then the military. Upon my return to New York in the early 1970s, I volunteered to give pre-camp physicals to Sharparoon campers in East Harlem and subsequently joined the Board of Managers of Camping Plus during those, for me, melancholy times of transition. It saddened me further to learn of the decision of NYCMS to suspend all camping activities at the Sharparoon complex. I was happy to discover that the Sharpirits are becoming actively involved in an attempt to have the Board of Directors reconsider this decision, as well as initiating the creation of The Children of Sharparoon. Perhaps there is some way that I can contribute to these efforts. The proposed autumn reunion is wonderful and I will look forward to attending, seeing old friends, and meeting new ones.

Bob Reiss

Comment by Bob Reiss — April 12, 2006 #
Hi There Everyone!!!
Sandy- I’m so glad for this time that the Camp Family is reconnecting. We’ll talk soon.
I’m so glad Linda Gowins got to the website- WOW that was fast Linda! I know when I told your mother about it. For folks who don’t know- Linda is my cousin AND her mother Peggy Neptune went through Sharparoon when she was a teenager. We’ve got more stories and memories coming!

Pat Gittens

Comment by Pat Gittens — April 11, 2006 #
Hi, I am Linda Gowins Silva, I went to Sharparoon for seven years straight starting in 1971 through 1978. I’ve enjoyed every year that I went. Someone may remember I was always the one crying on the bus on the way home. I remember talking about camp with my brother Allan Gowins all year long until my mom would yell at us to stop.

I was in Pine Hollow for two years, Wilderness for two years, Wesward Ho for one year and Teen Valley for two. When I was in Wilderness I had an altercation with a girl named Michelle over a boy named Fred. In Teen Valley I had a boyfriend who I met there named Roger. I can’t remember too many other names but if there is anyone out there who remembers me please sign onto the blog or maybe come to the reunion in October.

I live in North Carolina now with my husband and two children. I really hated when they closed the camp after my second year in Teen Valley and I would just love to see any of my camp family from each of the seven years I attended camp. Sometimes I tell my children and my husband about my camp days and always said I had wished the camp was open so that my children could go.

Victor I don’t know who you are, but I am so glad that you decided to get something together, since the time I spent at Sharparoon was the best time in my youth.

From North Carolina, Linda Silva (formerly Linda Gowins)

Comment by Linda Gowins Silva — April 11, 2006 #
Hi Pat Gittens,
How have you been? This is so great. I read all the e-mail on the Blog and I smile. I’m glad to be in contact with you again.
Sandy

Comment by Sandra Jenoure — April 11, 2006 #
Hi There Ronnie- so glad to hear from you!I have a new computer and I’m going through a tough initiation process with it. I typed out this nice long response to you and it went nowhere. To be brief- I’m in contact with Rachel Vasquez, Lotus Do, and Viola York Lockman with “recent” get-togethers with Rita Bayron and Katie Shakelford.
I’ll try to catch up with you later!
See ya!
Pat Gittens

Comment by Pat Gitens — April 8, 2006 #
Hi guys! Man, I miss Green Acres. To be honest, it is my favorite place on the planet. The talent shows, hikes, the Watermelon Baby, the bell, sledding down the hill, man hunt, all that good stuff! I miss it all but thankfully its coming back. I miss the people too! I hope I see you all really soon. Love you guys!
Emily

Comment by Emily Melendez — April 8, 2006 #
Bug Juice,Bald Mountain, Pat Gittens, Lotus Do, Lil Bit, Donald(Ducky)York,Scott Ellis, Ray Vasquez,Sandy Lee, Dave, Rose & Willie (sis&Bro) Willie Dupree, Benjie Cruz and his brother Issac and so many other wonderful memories! I have a few pics too! Pat, please e-mail me laponte@ccmlaw.com.

Ronnie

Comment by Ronnie — April 7, 2006 #
Angel, the photo you gave my brother not only did he get it to me, I have it in my computer. Every now and then, I bring it up and look at it.
My brother Gilly summed up my feelings when he bloggled last month. Most of my favorite times ever in my life were spent at camp. I have never felt so comfortable, secure, relaxed, and confident, than at Camp. Not going there for some time leaves me with an emptiness in my heart. The smile I have when we pass the water fall, and go over the bridge, the anticipation of making the left through the gates, and then all the hugs, kisses, and laughter as soon as you get into Birch Lodge.
The day you leave you leave with more memories, and some sadness because you want to stay. I can remember crying as a child leaving. I also remember my daughter crying when we would leave. I will never forget telling her, “It’s OK Uncle Gilly, Titi Audrey, and I used to do the same thing.”
I can only say that my heart beats a little faster, my stomach feels a little funnier every time I get closer to the place I love so much. It is truly a magical place. Love you all God Bless. Robbie

Comment by Robert Melendez — April 7, 2006 #
DEAR ADRIAN,

I JUST RETURNED HOME VIA AUTOMATIC PILOT, I AM
SURE. THE TAPES YOU SENT ABSOLUTELY TRANSPORTED
ME INTO A SUBLIME STATE. EARTH ANGEL, ONLY YOU,
SINCERELY. CRYING IN THE CHAPEL, BLUE MOON, ETC.
HOW CAN I THANK YOU FOR THIS TREASURE TROVE THAT
HAD ME SMILING CONTINUALLY. CAMP SHARPAROON WAS
WHERE I FIRST HEARD EARTH ANGEL AND FROM THEN ON
I WAS HOOKED TO THE STATION THAT PLAYED THIS
MUSIC THAT TOUCHED OUR SOULS. THE IMPACT THAT
SHARPAROON HAD ON MY LIFE HAS BEEN IMMEASURABLE.
I WILL BE OUT ON THE ROAD THIS EVE. DRIVING ALONG
JONES BEACH AND LISTENING TO TAPE #2 TO HAVE MORE
AMAZING MEMORIES AWAKENED THANKS TO YOU. LOVE,
IRENE

Comment by Irene Dreyer Mueck — April 6, 2006 #
Someone told me that writing out an email address on blog sites is not a good idea - seems that spammers have programs that troll for valid email addresses - one solution that has been suggested is to write out the address, ie: fulanodetal at yahoo dot com. If someone could confirm this, there are a bunch of email addresses that I would like to get.

Comment by Angel Martinez — April 6, 2006 #
Roni Johnson Monro - did we work at Sharparoon in 1967?

Comment by Angel Martinez — April 5, 2006 #
Hi
I’m Roni Johnson Monro I worked at Sharparoon and Teen Valley. I worked with Dick Pease. I also worked with Dave Barry.
I’m trying to remember the years. I also worked at Presbytrerian Church of the Crossroads.
I’m excited about the reunion.

Comment by Veronica Johnson Monro — April 5, 2006 #
Once again, Thank you Victor. Thank you Hector. I knew your dad and if I remember correctly, I also knew your grandfather. (I’ll have to ask Jose Melendez to clear me up on that one). GRACIAS.

Comment by Angel Martinez — April 4, 2006 #
I just know that I am not the only one who reads through the blog with a constant smile on their face. The first thought that occurs to me after the part of my brain that controls tired smile muscles relaxes is, bWhy donbt we get greedy and ask for a page that is titled bWhat we look like now!b. We could then all send in our pictures and b& nah!

This wonderful web site does many things; among them it provides a partial answer to that question we ask ourselves when remembering an old friend, acquaintance or love, bI wonder if he/she remembers me?b

Then you see that someone who has not seen you in over four decades is asking how you are. Magnificent!

In the boxes that serve as an excuse for files I have an assortment of pieces of paper with the random thoughts and memories that life brings. There are pages for what I did the day I found out that Gil Melendez had died; for memories of dancing the waltz with Magalys Ortiz; notes on meeting Jose in 1947 (if you count just the decades that equals 7 of them); a message for Eli and Evelyn SaldaC1a; the meanderings of ancient loves and, of course, the fun times at Sharparoon and Green Acres.

Throughout the many lives lived these past fifty years I have always managed to stay in touch with at least one person who connected me with many of the people who write and are named on this blog. There have also been the occasional chance meetings:

One day in 1982 (or thereabouts) I saw a young man who looked very familiar at a video store. I approached him and asked him his name. No connection there, so I asked him if his mothersb name was Franny and he gave me a startled look. Yep, Franny Caraballobs son.

Such a small world!

I saw Franny, Olga and Isabel and some of their families. But then I left for Central America and have not seen or heard from them since.

And,

I was standing in line at Times Square waiting to buy tickets to some play in 1989 (or thereabouts) and a woman walked up to me and asked if I was Angel Martinez. It was Bunny Richardson from Open Door. I had just returned from another trip to Central America and happened to be in NY. What are the odds? What a wonderfully small world.

I will dig out these pieces of paper and put them on the internet elsewhere for anyone to read who might be interested. In the meantime I want to look through this blog and make wild comments. I will also dig out old photos that may have survived my meanderings.

Bug juice, bah! A comment that is used to get peoplesb attention. Never have I heard it used anywhere but at camp and whenever I wanted to call someonebs attention to the quality of whatever was served as a drink.

Maggie Ortiz, you waltz in my memory and whenever I slouch I hear you reminding me to improve my posture. I was so glad to see your comment and want to tell you that I have often thought about you and your wonderful spirit. How is Myrka?

Henry (Butch), thank you for your update. I must admit that it will take some rearranging of memories to make you a police chief! Have you ever had another weimeraner? Your mom is one of those indelible pictures in my memory. With all of the time that I have spent in Santa Rosa, chances are that I have seen your daughter b life is like that.

Robbie Melendez b did your brother share with you the photo of your dad that I sent him? He said that he could not really picture him as he was in the photo. Which is another reason for having a page that shows us how we look now.

We wuz all brats! I recall the night that Ruben Garcia - (anyone know anything about his whereabouts) b caught Jose Melendez and yours truly screaming our way out of the girls area after trying to sneak into their shower. Hah, Ibve been waiting fifty years to tell on you Jose!

Willie and Luz b you live near my sister who is in Beverly Hills, Fl. When I go to visit her again, webll have to get together and compare wheelchairs or dentures or memories.

But here is a question for you memory hounds:

Who remembers being awakened, not by a bell but by Abe Lind singing an aria from some opera with one of those Sepulvedas banging on the cabin doors? OK, Lou, youbre on.

Robbie b your memory of raiding the kitchen and being up till all hours seems to match my memory of your father. Of course he also tortured us with some really bad jokes. Was that also you or was that Gilly?

Blanca, I sent Jose a picture of him performing at one of the btalentb shows b he needs to send it in for laughter and delight. How are you?

Adrian & Joe b heroes! I remember when you two got married and I thought what an incredibly daring thing that was. That you are still together shows that love and devotion is alive and well in the world. I have thought about you often in my live and I send you love.

Watermelon baby my part 1): do you remember Pat Z wearing a green t-shirt and shining a flashlight underneath it as he got near the end of the story? Is this a real memory bor has time re-written every lineb? I think that we buried some stuff in the basement of the old manor house for future generations, did anyone dig them up?

Jeff J. somewhere I have a picture of the real you b about 2 years old.

Luis Sepulveda! So you are still calling us whippersnappers. I send you a giant electronic hug to match the ones you gave in real life. I thank Dee for taking care of you all of these years so that we can now call each other old farts.

Ralph and Shirley b bQue Dios los bendigab b I have always said that life is a blast and this reconnection proves it.

Gilly b it is true, the fruit does not fall far from the tree. Your dad always tried to make us bbreak nightb, but mostly we just broke wind.

Mr. and Mrs. Adinolfi b Richie b& wow. I think that I better stop writing, the flood of good memories and accompanying good feelings is best doled out in smaller doses. How great to feel you out there,

But I cannot close without saying hi to Mickey Castaneda.

Quiz #2 - Do you remember Ida Buttons?

Comment by Angel Martinez — April 4, 2006 #
I have finally sat down and read through all of the postings on the blog and it filled me with such joy and wonder at what a beautiful and lasting experience we’ve all had. The uniqueness of how we feel today from an experience so long ago savored is not enjoyed by many. We must consider ourselves a very special group of people who have built our respective lives on a foundation of love, community, and faith.

Many of you knew me as Sugar. My sister Miriam and brother Eli are also alumni of Sharparoon and until recently I’ve enjoyed some of the weekend get togethers that had been sponsored by “Friends of Camping Plus”. It would be wonderful to hear from those of you who remember me (Mickey, the feeling was mutual!). I hope you are all living beautiful lives together with your spouses, children and grandchildren! Thanks to all who made this possible.

P.S. Victor, unfortunately, I can’t remember anyone’s name pictured with me in the photo which you emailed.

Comment by Elia Saldana — April 4, 2006 #
                                                      HOORAY! HOORAY!
OUR new website is up and online. Click on the Sharparoon Website link towards the top of this page to go there immediately.

Although I would like to take credit for the websiteb’s appearance and functionality, the man driving the engine is Sharpirit Hector Cruzado, hcruzado@sharparoon.com, one of them “crazy Schaghticokes”.  Hector has put an innumerable number of hours into this project and has earned my respect and appreciation for his efforts.

I came across this article on Indianz.com which I have liberally edited and have posted on the Blog to honor my friend Hector. Victorg

Editorial: Schaghticokes deserve recognition
TUESDAY, APRIL 4, 2006

“If there’s any Sharpirit in this country that merits Sharparoon Nation recognition, it’s the Schaghticoke’s Hector Cruzado.  Hector’s dedicated efforts in the creation of our website is living proof of just how important the Schaghticoke commitment to the entire project is. The Schaghticokes have been recognized as an integral part of the Sharparoon Nation and its camping antecedents since 1936. They applied for Sharparoon Nation recognition in 1940, years before the Iroquois and Berkshire men. It is heartwarming that the tribe, after years of meticulously documenting its history, has finally won recognition and a debt of gratitude based on Hector Cruzado’s efforts.

Schaghta kazook kazook kazook,

I yay - I yay something something,

I ka - myka something, something,

Schaghticokes Schaghticokes rah rah rah! (HELP)

Comment by Administrator — April 4, 2006 #
Hi to my camp family!!! I’ve been to this site a coulple of times after being told about it be Fred Jenoure. But for some reason I couldn’t find out how to make or leave a comment. This is the 3rd one so I hope it gets posted.
I’m a l;ong time camper…starting off at GA with my mother Kathleen Gittens and probably my brother in 1956 ( I was 4) . along for the long time relationship was Lotus Do and her mother Corneilia and brother Kim. ( they also have a ister , Ann) . I went to GA every summer until I was 9 , then went to Sharparoon. GA was so warm an environment and like a second home, I remember not wanting to go and being scared of “the big kids”. I had an older cousing up ther but becasue of her age, I really didn’t see her that much. In sone of the blogs/comments, someone mentioned Judy. She was my counselor during my 2nd year at Pine Hollow. Phyllis was my first. Then I spent 3 years at Ah Wilderness ( instead of 2) and then went on to Teen Valley for CIT stuff. One year there and then I was at Sharparoon as Jr CIT and CIT…I guess I should start dropping more names: Donald (Ducky) York, Lil Bit, Rachel Vasquez, Midge, Debra Brown, Scott Ellis, Paul Mixon, David,Linda Viney ( Mousie), Sylvester Briggs ( a fabulous singer) , Cindy ( Cinderella), Katie Shackelford ( her sister Martha was a CIT counselor), Debbie Edwards ( Bob Edwards’ younger sister).. there are lots of other faces I see but can’t find their names in my memory banks. The adults around us: Rose Harvey, Dick Pease, Cynthia Robinson, Dennis Dove,Reggie DeFour, Roni Johnson and Tyrone Monro ( they married each other, still married, he’s a minister, they had 2 daughters and are grandparents). Oh the memories…camping and hiking to Lost Lake and S rock, stories such as The Watermelon Baby ( I remember the whole story), the remains of the furnace , Dead man’s Mt, Bald Mountain, the play productions put on by Jr. Staff each summer ( we did Day of Absence), water fights, not wearing a watch and telling time by the bell, capers, vespers.. of couse I could go on and on. Then I was a counselor at GA for a few years ( coming full circle) .. one of the best ” Capture the Flag ” games took place one night.. I’m surprised Sharparoon folks didn’t hear us. There, the Jenoures, Essie and Hugh Carrington, Heather, Lydia ( Jenoure) and Maria ( And Luis Soto), Jose, Naomi,Debbie York (Donald’s ister), Viola Lockman ( their mother), Nephtali Cruz, Harold, John and Lucille Wright, and many, many others added on to my camp family.
Enough for now… and yes.. I have pictures!!!

Pat Gittens

Comment by Pat Gittens — April 3, 2006 #
I’ve been reading some of the comments and I’m sooooooo excited. I’ve often told people that I have a camp family. We don’t see each other too often but when we get together, we can easily pick up where we left off…
I’m looking forward to the October weekend

Comment by Pat Gittens — April 3, 2006 #
on remembering sharparoon… nycity mission wants to pretend you don’t exist , i know you do….i’m a minisinker and went to sharparoon for teen conferences after the minisink port jervis season and such a difference from the hills of the shawangunk mountains…. when they closed the port jervis site i was very angry and still it hurts and passionately felt they betrayed both the minisinkers and sharparoons by renaming sharparoon trying obliterate the original, the history and legacy you produced…. when i married i took my younger scott roger to green acres a couple of summers….while landon jr and sonja jeanine were off somewhere else..maybe minisink maybe some other camp.. i kept them busy all summer long ….. can’t remember the laundry ladies name but if my memory serves me she was a latina with a daughter??? … essie carrington was the camp nurse (we are still very close)… helen lazarides led the senior program and even though very successful, they shut her down (idiots)….my mom rose scott (passed in 2004) LIVED AT sharparoon/minisink for her many, many senior camping years at green acres along with my uncle charles…. we are all the DISPOSSESSED… AND THATS NOT FAIR… KEEP ME POSTED… KEEP ON WITH YOUR SITE AND plug into the minisink alumni site for more on all of us….we cherished the years of our childhood and teen years and we have memories that made us solid adults… the young people of day have been denied that opportunity… pro cen post this message on our site.. we are all sistah’s/brotha’s in the soul..
celiascottWickham/TAP’52/MINISINK PORT JERVIS/ da sheriff

Comment by Celia Scott Wickham — March 31, 2006 #
Good job Vicky! I think your memory is even better than mine.

Comment by Steve Reiss — March 27, 2006 #
I have received quite a few emails from Sharpirits indicating that they plan to attend the October 14th reunion. At the present time the sites we are exploring are all in the tri-state area (NY, NJ CN). If you are interested in entertaining the group through song, music or dance please let me know so we can include you in the program. Victorg

Comment by Administrator — March 26, 2006 #
Dear Family and friends,

One of my fondest memories was looking forward for summer to arrive and getting on the bus at 22nd St. N.Y.C. and on the way to Camp Shaparoon (PARADISE). I couldn’t wait to see my friends and counselors. I loved getting away from the N.Y.C. smog and into the fresh air, sleeping in the log cabins. I was eight years old and I was in the Pine Hollow group, we sang all the time, in the mess hall, hiking and of course at the campfires!!
One of the best songs was:

“Remember the times you had here remember when you’re away,
Remember the hills and mountains and don’t forget to come back again
Remember the hills and woodlands, the sky of silver and gray
Remember the friends you made here and don’t forget to come back again”.

This song was sung before we embarked back home to N.Y.C. We all cried not wanting to go back to the city. I thank the Lord Jesus for giving us such a beautful and wonderful place to gather. “Camp Shaparoon” and the leaders like Patty Zaccara, Dave Barry and I’ll never forget Divi Zaccara, she was the mother hen for all of us. I tip my hat to Divi; what a wonderful woman!! GOD BLESS HER

Love,

Hilda (Fernandez) Melendez

Comment by Hilda (Fernandez) Melendez — March 26, 2006 #
Maria Adinolfi, I was thrilled to see your name. How are you and Richard? What are you up to? Fill me in!

Comment by Alpha Lupoletti Rogers — March 26, 2006 #
Hi Vicki,
Finally able to get back to writing. To fill you in we retired to middle Georgia 5 years ago after raising a family(1 daughter 1 son) in New Jersey. daughter now in AZ son in SC. What a nice surprise finding this web site. It brought back a ton of memories. I only attended camp in Pine Hollow and Ah Wilderness but stayed the entire summer. I did go back with my cousin Mickey Pisciella for teen conference for 2 years. I loved my years at camp, meeting at grand Central,the walk to camp,the sorting at the Play Lodge porch, singing in the mess hall, running out of the mess hall to secure a boat for free time,hiking up to the S rock, building camp sites, sleeping in tents at those sites in our terrible bedrolls. I loved the chapel and always dreamed of getting married there. We settled for your Dad marrying us ay NYCMS.I could go on forever suffice it to say I loved Sharparoon,the place,the people,the experiences. They tend to stick with you!

Comment by Alpha Lupoletti Rogers — March 26, 2006 #
Manuel,
It went:

Woodpecker, woodpecker, knock, knock, knock b
Berkshire men, Berkshire men, solid as a rock b
Cabin 7, 8, 9, 10 b
We are the Berkshire men -
Ho, Ho Hurray!

Comment by Steve Reiss — March 25, 2006 #
Hi Ruth: What a thrill to be in touch with you and Delia and Sandy. I remember you both so often and with such love. You kept me hopping and I loved every minute of it. I can’t believe that you have a 37 year old! My youngest is 38 years old and my oldest is 45. Such memories keep flooding back and being in touch again with so many Sharparooners again is the GREATEST. I am so grateful for my years at Sharparoon. We all grew up there and found love, God, fellowship, friendship, and peace. We all have people that we especially remember and that influenced our lives to some degree but the great thing about Camp was that we all influenced each other. It is like a puzzle and each and every person was necessary to fill our lives with that special feeling that we all seem to be describing. I feel a strong bond with everyone that has written even those I don’t know. You and your sister are very special people. You have both become strong and meaningful adults who have made the world a much better place for so many that you have touched. See, even though I have not seen you all these years, I know that to be true just because I knew you when! Thank you for the kind words and the love you have given me. I look forward to many more letters. Love, Vicky

Hey Steve: Pine Hollow, Pine Hollow, Rickety Rackety Russ we’re here to make a fuss. But never the less I must confess there’s nothing the matter with us. Yea Pine Hollow! See, I remember some things too! Vicky

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — March 25, 2006 #
I think that was changed later to go something like this, although i could be wrong….

Woodpecker, woodpecker, knock, knock, knock;
BERCHMEN, BERCHMEN, solid as a rock;
clean, mean;
we are mighty hard to beat;
YEAH or YAY, BERCHMEN, BERCHMEN hurray!

Comment by Hector Cruzado Jr. — March 25, 2006 #
PS., Adrian Soto;

I will definitely pass your remembrance of her along to my Aunt…

Hector Jr.

Comment by Hector Cruzado Jr. — March 24, 2006 #
“Cabin 7-8-9-10 we are the Berkshiremen! Ho Ho Hurray!”

I’m afraid that’s all I remember from the middle boys section cheer.

I love hearing from my fellow Sharparooners! I think the “S Rock” grew over with wildlife over the years. I remember it had to be re-painted every year in order to maintain our camp icon. That was the job of the teen section - “Pioneers”.

Director Cal Gertsen and his wife (Alice?) were so good to me at the infirmary when I was carried in on an impromptu stretcher made (by two Pioneers who came to my rescue) of saplings and an army surplus blanket.

It’s easy to forget the names and details, but I’ll never forget Sharparoon… it was where we all grew up : )

…them bones gonna rise again!

Comment by Manuel Susarret — March 24, 2006 #
Adrian Soto;

Hector Cruzado was my Dad and Miriam, or Titi Miriam to us “yungins”, is his sister and my aunt. Dad passed away over 20 years ago but his sister is looking good and doing fine. She recently moved to St. Thomas with her husband.

I of course attended the Church of the Crossroads on 14th street in Manhattan along with my 3 sisters and two younger brothers. I remember the Reverend Martinez and his wife Ramonita along with Reverend Dick Pease who took over for the Rev. Martinez. Rev Pease was standing next to the Rev Martinez when I was baptized and made a member of the church.

I had the pleasure of attending Camp Green Acres one year and Camp Sharparoon for three straight years. One year I actually got to spend six consecutive weeks at the camp (mid 60’s).

I have many, many fond and special memories of attending camp; the wake up bell in the morning - darn I can hear it now! - sounds great doesn’t it!?, Walking to the Mess Hall in the morning dew for those great warm breakfasts’; The S rock; camping under the stars; The morning the campers woke up to find all the counselors wearing little pieces of white tape on their forehead were aliens had sucked out their brains the night before - They kept that up all morning I think - Man that still freaks me out today (smile); the watermelon baby (what was that noise???); Does anyone recall if the “White Lady” story was a Sharparoon story or do I have that confused with some other place?; candy allotments; the candlelight services at the chapel - I fell in love at one of those for the first time ever with a girl named Mildred Marin - I can still see her face basked in the orange-red glow of the candle she was holding looking up at me from a lower row…Ahhh!

I have to stop now because I’m getting the urge to go hiking and the knees aren’t what they used to be…Anyway folks keep it up! This is great and I would like to hear from some of you “youngerb campers, which means all you people in your mid-50’s…

Comment by Hector Cruzado Jr. — March 24, 2006 #
i spent 3 years in scaghtcokes couple of yearsin iroquois waterfront director
in 1967 headed to nyu law school but spent too much time in sharparoon that summer and ended up at univ of buffalo law school been here since then
dick pease was camp director i think other counselors pat murray/sunny/ my brother steve/ronni/nancy/gwen green/butch bockelman/toni gray/naomi hunt/janet asst waterfront director

first time i fell in love was with girl from ah! wilderness just hearing someone mention sharparoon is scary story of watermelon baby hit the big times when dave barry mentioned it in his nationally syndicated column
wow wow wow

Comment by Julio Garcia — March 24, 2006 #
Hi Vicki … this is Ruth as in “Ruth & Delia” the twins. Yes, I remember you so well! Delia read the Blog entries to me on my cell phone while my wonderful husband and I travelled to Houston to see my rheumatologist (and friend) and two of my FIVE grandchildren. Yup, I’m a grand-ma! And loving it! I’ve taught in Christian schools and am a licensed Christian Counselor (working on my Masters).
I have often thought about you and wondered how and where you are! You have always been my hero, Vicki. You and your Dad, Pat. I remember you so very well.
I loved my time at Sharparoon (And yes, I had to sing the song to spell it!) And I remember being in love with Kent!?
(Oh, how hilarious!!) And I remember the butterflies in my stomach about the Intermediate Swimmers’ Test after chores in the morning … and wondering if it was going to WARM-up enough to go swimming … and why anyone would WANT to swim in the cold morning air!
I have never forgotten my Sharparoon roots. The cabins, mess-hall and latreen duty! Play Lodge Porch and the crafts … And vespers. I fell in love with God at Sharparoon. I remember the wasp that crawled into my shirt and stung me … over and OVER!. And I tried so hard to ignore it because I wanted to stay and sing!? I was learning to harmonize … just by sitting next to you, Vicki. I loved chapel … and the quiet over the lake during vespers.
I am soooooo glad this BLOG is happening! This is wonderful!
I have missed my chance to see Sharparoon. And I understand that GreenAcres is still around though changed. It’s similar to what it used to be … I was a counselor (of sorts) at GreenAcres and took care of their Pony. I still love horses. My twin sister, Delia, bought me an Arabian horse to play with. And I’m married to the love of my life, Noel. You will love him, too.
I have three children … a 37 year old son, a married 35 year old daughter with 3 children of her own and a 31 year old daughter with 2 children, all of them live in Texas.
So is there going to be a Get-To-Gether??
Thank you Delia for telling me about this site! I love it!
And thank you Pat for the impact you had in my life.

Comment by Ruth Susarret-Daniel — March 24, 2006 #
On the web-site photo … where we are asked if we recognize ourselves in the photo … I think Shirley Sepulveda is sitting on the ground with Raul laying back, resting on her … and I think Sandra Jenouir is 3rd from the right, sitting on the ground??

I am so excited … Sharparoon Spirits Never Die!

Vicky, you are always going to be a hero of mine. What a blessing you and your dad were to so many. I know your Dad is gone … I remember hearing the news of it and the loss I felt.

I can’t wait to see you! Big hug!
Ruth (of the twins)

Comment by Ruth Susrret-Daniel — March 24, 2006 #
Hi Folks! to all those who attended Crossroads aka Second Spanish Evangelical
Church. Maggie - your mom was my girl scout leader and taught me how to bake my first pound cake. It didn’t turn out badly, if I do say so myself.
George- Your mom took care of our girls in the church nursery, so that Joe and I could teach Sunday School. Yes, Jose Melendez you were in our class!!!
Hector Cruzado- is your sister Miriam? If so she was in our girl scout troop, youth and rythmic choirs. We were active in every activity the church had to offer. P.S. i n the 50s the Sharparoon sweatshirts and tee shirts came in both maroon and grey with the Sharparoon enterance sign printed on the front. I thought they were the greatest!
Angel Martinez- My godness it’s been ages since we were in touch. What great times we had in our youth fellowship, especially the Friday night dances at Church of All Nations.

I feel so blessed for the positive experiences I had growing up in church and Sharparoon. Rev. Martinez, Ramonita, and Patti were the best mentors. Let’s not forget Secre. and Pepe.
All these wonderful people let us know in some way or another that we were special, and could accomplish anything we set our minds to. I hope that is some small way we can continue this spirit by reaching out to inner city children so that they might enjoy some of the experiences we had.

Regards to all , Adrian

Comment by Adrian Soto — March 23, 2006 #
Thank you all for your memories, and contributions to my memories. I worked at Sharparoon from ‘58 through ‘61. Two years in maintenance, one doing dishes, and one as a cook helper.
It was a bit stunning to read the memories of Mitchell Kaidy regarding the 1937 criteria for campers, but we have to credit to NYCMS for making the right changes. What were the criteria when you were there?
I’ve got nothing but respect for the people that served as counselors and administrators at Sharparoon, Green Acres, and Minisink. Mama Bockelman doing all that paperwork. Hans handling all that maintenance year round. Pat Zaccara being so very available. They were all long term factors. Our dad and mom (Cal and Aliice Gertsen) had their opportunity for input too. Dad had an architecture background that he put to use designing new cabins, latrines, and other buildings and additions. Mom spent some summers helping out with just about anything. A memory comes to mind about her. This will bring limited memories because it was at a staff reunion around the Christmas/New Year season the winter before dad started as director. The reunion was held in the infirmary. We came up for a day so Pat could introduce dad. There was a set of music bells sitting on table and every once in awhile someone would pick one or two up and jingle them. Mom got a bunch of the people together, gave them each a bell, set them in order, and pointed to them when it was their note if some song. I can still see the smiles and hear the laughter and joy expressed by the group for being able to play a full song together. Classic individual input leading to an accomplishment. Both the players and us non-players cheered and applauded. We loved it.
My sister (Nancy) got to be a camper and a worker at Sharparoon over the years. She and her husband went up to see the camp about three or four years ago and were pretty much downed by the looks of the place.
I got to spend four years working at Sharparoon. The next two summers I had a regular job and was “in-charge” of taking care of the house. The third summer (’64) I was on the verge of being drafted, so I kept up Family tradition by joining the Navy. But Sharparoon consistently comes to my mind.
We all have memories and thoughts. Keep sharing them folks. It’s GREAT.

Comment by Glenn Gertsen — March 22, 2006 #
Hi Delia: Oh what a joy! I remember you and Ruth so well. I think that the two of you and Sandy were in my cabin for two or three years. I remember you were afraid of bugs and one of the overnights we went on, I got bit by a spider and you cried and cried. I had to comfort you for a long time. It was as if it had bitten you. Hey, wait a minute, maybe you weren’t worried about me but afraid that it would bite you!@#$. Only kidding, you were so cute. Here you are a teacher with a 28 year old son. Have all of those years passed? You brought back so many memories of Sharparoon. The lake and Chapel were two of my favorite places as well. I used to love the Candle Light Service we used to have at the end of each two week period. Do you remember the site of hundreds of candles moving slowly down the road to stop at the edge of the lake where we watched the Cross being lighted across the lake? If I close my eyes I can still see those beautiful candles. You mentioned Boricua College. I resently asked Victor if he knew anything about Abe Lind and he mentioned that he was at a College and I think it was Boricua. I could be wrong. Do you know Abe? If you do, tell him I send my love and get him on the Blog. Say Hi to your Mom for me and to Ruth. Love to you, Vicky

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — March 20, 2006 #
Oops! The alarm clock didn’t go off. I have to wake up Butch and run out and ring the wake-up bell. Thank goodness it’s Sunday so all the campers get to sleep later than usual. Oh good. I see the lights are on in the kitchen. The head cook has probably been in there for a couple of hours already making those buns for Sunday morning breakfast. What a guy he is. Nine months a year he is a biology teacher at a college in Pennsylvania, and then he comes here for the summer as head cook. He even has some of the campers collect salamanders for him to take back to college for experiments. Butch and I work in the kitchen as alternate 3rd/4th cooks. One day I get to help with food prep (3rd cook) and the next day I get to wash pots and scrub the floors (4th cook).
It’s a lot different than last year when we got to wash all the dishes with a bunch of other guys. Rich was our supervisor all day long, but he always seemed to go down to Green Acres in the evening. The guy had a great upper body build, so maybe he went down there to work out, or maybe he had a girlfriend. If he had a girlfriend I hope she was as pretty as that Maria girl who worked down there. I’d only seen her a couple of times, but she was cute.
Talk about cute. There were at least three of us dishwashers who liked Patricia Ann Christine Kelley. Her full name was easy to remember because her initials spelled a word (PACK). She was too old to be a camper anymore, so she came up to Sharparoon for two weeks and volunteered to help out with anything. That made her impressive as well as cute. She just loved the place.
What are some of the other things that impress me about Sharparoon? Well, one of the things is the construction. The cabins are all updated, clean and secure. The big place with the gym and counselors lounge. The counselors had a place to get together and share events of the day and to seek help and opinions from the rest of the staff regarding how to handle some problems. The latrines over in the boy campsites were renovated too. I wonder if they were redone in the girl sites too? Probably.
OK. Butch is up. Today is chicken day so we’ve got a lot of work to get done by lunchtime. I wonder what we’re making for supper? One thing at a time, Glenn. You won’t have to do more than a ton of potatoes.
Aha! There is our Sunday morning confirmation; the sound of the cars getting ready at the drag strip over in Wingdale.
Let’s get the bell rung and get everybody rolling. Beautiful morning.

Comment by Glenn Gertsen — March 19, 2006 #
Message received from Delia Susarret
Wed, 15 Mar 2006 13:58:06 -0500

Re: Oh I LOVE it!

Hola Victor,

I’m so excited about being back in touch with Sharparoon Alumni. My Aunt Shirley (of the Ralphie and Shirley Sepulveda Duo) showed me the
blogs in our Boricua College Chorus rehearsal. I’ve been so happy since then. Thanks for getting this started. Count me in on keeping Sharparoon in operation.

Vicky! I’ve been in contact with my twin sister, Ruth (who worked at Green Acres - caring for the pony), my Mom, Edith (Louis Sepulveda’s sister) who sent us to Sharparoon religiously. She’s living in Clarkesville, Arkansas (as in , “take the last train to…”), with her
husband of 6 years and remembers you dearly! She loves you so much and remembers you as if you’ve never parted.

My older brother, Manuel lives a block away from Mom, in Cincinnati, Ohio. In 1958, my older brother, Manuel was on a hike to the “S” Rock with his cabin and there was an accident. Some kids were slipping off the trail and Manuel held on to one of his fellow campers and the ledge, even after a boulder smashed up two of his fingers. Big drama. My brother was a hero then. He is still my hero. BTW, his fingers are
a bit crooked, but I look at them as a badge of honor/courage that was
earned at Sharparoon. Undaunted, he plays guitar beautifully.

The most incredibly, wonderful times of my life happened at Sharparoon. I’m at that age now when I forget crucial information that has to do with my profession, but I’ll be darned… I remember the Pine Hollow cheer, the Scatter Cooks, Iroquis and Our Wilderness Cheers as well as the WestWard Ho Cheer. What was the middle age boys section?

As many of you have, I too have been back to Sharparoon grounds to get some positive energy from the Lake, the Amphitheater, that Bell! Ya’
know those mosquitos - have the same fearsome sound! Mosquitos everywhere else in my travels don’t reduce me to cowering under the covers like those mosquitos that buzzed us in our cabins and overnight
hikes.

I can’t find the “S” Rock from the field anymore.
The Quonset Hut seems smaller. I brought my son (who is now 28 yrs. old) to Sharparoon a few times in
his early years to share the spirituality of the place. Vespers on the lake were awesome. I haven’t experienced that feeling since. I miss Pat.

I’ve always thought of Sharparoon Lake as an immense challenge as a child. I told my Monty about taking the “swimmers” test and my joy and sense of accomplishment when I passed it and was able to swim the lake. Heavy sigh.

My first crush was on a camper named Reggy Jackson.

Sandra Jenoure was right! She and I used to teach science in el Barrio - blocks away from the Church of the Good Neighbor. I am currently living in the Bronx, teaching science in a local elementary school.
Many of my science lessons are accentuated with “snip-its” of experiences at Camp Sharparoon.

Heavy sigh and warm smiles. Sharparoon spirits never (ever) die.

Con cariC1o,
Delia (of the Ruth and Delia twosome)

Comment by Administrator — March 19, 2006 #
I have been like a lost sheep for days because I couldn’t find the “Leave a Comment box at the bottom of the blog page. Don’t ask me how I found it now because it still isn’t there but I found it!

Hi Cleo: It was soooo great to hear from you. I have thought of you and Johnny many times over the years. I can’t believe that we are all retired. The years have just flown by but my Sharparoon days seem like yesterday. They are some of my happiest memories. You mentioned the White Stag and my funniest memory of the White Stag is going on a truck night in intense fog and Johnny walking on the road with a flashlight shinning on the middle line so the truck could see where we were going (or coming from) I don’t remember which. I can’t wait to hear from Mickey and John also. The last I talked to them was about 7 years ago. Get Janet on here also. She was so much fun. I also found the picture with the leopard shorts but you are not getting off that easy because my picture has all three of us, not just Irene and me! I am ready to send many pictures to Victor as soon as he gets back from a trip. How are your Brothers? I forgot to ask Irene. I have many happy memories at your house as well as at camp.

Hi Irene: Yes, Gary still Golfs. In fact he won a tournament last weekend at a conference he was at in Palm Springs, CA. He is the Director of Administrative Services for the Town of La Mesa, CA. He lives in San Diego. I remember his Bat Mobile very well. It was hard to get him off of that. Jeff is doing great also. He has his own business as an Insurance Adjuster and does real well. I got to sample first hand what insurance adjusters do three times in the last two years. We were hit with Hurricanes Jeanne, Frances, and Wilma. We were evacutated so we were all fine. The house on the other hand took on about $30,000.00 damage from all three hits. The perils of living in Florida.

Hi Steve:

Yes, I remember 1953 and In The Still Of The Night. I can’t get over your memory! Didn’t you grow old like the rest of us?

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — March 18, 2006 #
Cleo,

Bob lives in Queens and is alive and well. He did his medicine thing and I did my engineering thing and now we are both retired. Right now he’s in Europe and won’t be back until next week. He does not yet know about this WEB site but I will tell him about it when he returns. I’m sure he’ll want to post something on this blog.

There were a few camp things that my mother kept in a box filled with memorabilia. One of the items, that I scanned and emailed to Victor, was a copy of the forth period 1955 “truck night” sign-up sheet. CITs normally had their own truck night but since we had all become part of the regular staff, our names are included. You were signed up for a movie night on Friday, August 19th. I also sent in a photo of the 1955 girl CITs and a 1954 picture of “Big Red”, the camp truck, filled with CITs and other staff. You’re in both pictures.

Comment by Steve Reiss — March 14, 2006 #
Dear Vicky Sue and Irene, I found pictures of you and Irene in the zebra shorts along with pictures of Greta, Myrna, Sue, Connie, Bonnie,Jeannie, Marilyn (CIT”s 1954) and in the 1954 KB photo were Angelo, Bob, Orlando, Gus, Turkey,Ronnie, Jimmy–The KB photo in ‘53—Tony, Turkey, Angleo, Mike and Gus. What fun….Soon I will get John(ny) R. going on this memory trip. Now I just have to get Caitlin (daughter) to scan the photos to me and figure out passing them on to this site. Also Steve Reiss how /where is Bobby? I have been flooded with great and significant memories. The counselor Mitch who was killed in the Korean War and his beautiful younger sister who came to camp but I can’t recall her name. Hannah Bockelman—with your friendly sunny smile who always had us in laughing fits. (do you remember the falling -off-the-roof story) Marni, mentor and guide. It just keeps coming….

Comment by Cleo Dreyer Roberts — March 13, 2006 #
A small group of Sharparoon/Green Acres/Teen Valley Alumni is meeting on Wednesday, March 15, 2006, at the New York City Mission Society (NYCMS) headquarters. That meeting will include Ellsworth Stanton III (Board Chairman), George Drucker (Board Member) and Stephanie Palmer (Executive Director) representing the Society. Alumni representatives expected to attend will be Joe Brown, Victor Gonzalez, Everette Jenoure, Fred Jenoure, Rev. Norman White, and Joni Z. Park.

As you might recall, a similar group of us had met with Mr. Stanton last December. At that time he agreed that our issues and suggestions are significant and would be taken into consideration; that he would begin exploring revitalization of the camping programs with churches as partners; that he would be asking us for assistance; and that as long as he is the Board Chairman, the camp property would not be sold.

As we had not heard anything since that meeting, Victor initiated this coming Wednesday’s meeting. Our hope is that Mr. Stanton and Ms. Parker will not only listen to our issues but will seriously consider our ideas and suggestions for planning and re-implementing camping programs at Dover Plains. Should that not be the case, we have arrived at a consensus that:

We will assess the needs of camp programs in the New York/New Jersey area that have the old NYCMS philosophy of convening diverse groups and churches to work and learn together as one. Given our earnest desire to share the Sharparoon Spirits, this would be a wonderful way for us to continue to help others.

To be continued…

Comment by Jose Melendez — March 13, 2006 #
DEAR VICKY SUE,

I AM GRINNING FROM EAR TO EAR — IT IS SO GREAT TO HEAR FROM YOU.
I KNOW CLEO ALSO SENT YOU A MESSAGE, BUT I DO NOT SEE IT.
I”M ON PELHAM PKWY EVERY MON. GOING TO THE BRONX ZOO WHERE I AM
A GUIDE. I BEGAN IN 1988. MY VISITS TO YOUR HOME IN PELHAM BAY
SO OFTEN COME TO MIND, I REMEMBER WONDERFUL FUN STAYOVERS AND
DELICIOUS SUNDAY DINNERS. YOUR FRIEND JOANN PASTORE WENT TO
ST. CATHERINE’S ACADEMY WHICH I ALSO PASS. REMEMBER WE MET SOME
OF THE KBS AND WENT TO CENTRAL PARK WITH THEM AND ROWED BOATS?
YOUR DAD HAD HIS HANDS FULL WITH ALL OF US AND REMEDIED THE
SITUATION BY BRINGING ON THE KGS. REMEMBER BAREFOOT NATE WHO
OPENED THE CANDY STORE EVERY EVE. WE WERE VERY GOOD CUSTOMERS.
HOW WE LOVED BEING SHOWN THE MOVIE ‘LOST HORIZONS’. WHAT WAS
THE NAME OF THE NURSE (WHOSE FACE I CLEARLY SEE) WHO HAD THE
SIGN OVER THE INFIRMARY DOOR “QUITYERBELLYACHING” OR CLOSE TO IT.
I REMEMBER CLEO BEING IN THERE COVERED FROM HEAD TO FOOT WITH
POISON IVY — INTERNALLY AS WELL. THEY MISTOOK POISON IVY FOR
SASSAFRASS AND CLEO ATE IT. I CAN STILL REMEMBER ADRIAN BEING
ATTACKED BY A SWARM OF BEES WHEN WE WENT HIKING — MORE THAN
A FEW TIMES. THEY DIDN’T STING ANYONE ELSE. WE ALL TRIED TO STOP
THEM, BUT WERE NEVER SUCCESSFUL. DOES GARY STILL PLAY GOLF? I
REMEMBER HIM IN HIS BATMOBILE. DO YOU STILL FISH? THIS IS GREAT!
LOVE, IRENE

Comment by IRENE DREYER MUECK — March 13, 2006 #
Hi Irene: What great joy to be back in touch with you. Our first year was 1948, the first year girls were allowed at camp. That means we have known each other for 59 years! So many memories at camp and at home. I think you were referring to Patty Amar. I sure do remember Letters to Jane. Ginny was way ahead of her time. Do you remember Adrian, you and I came up with sayings that were supposed to fit our personalities. Do you remember what they were? Maybe Adrian remembers. Do you remember when you, Cleo and I wore those tiger short shorts? We thought we were hot stuff. Anything to impress those KB’s! I remember many weekends spent with you during the winter months as well either at your house or mine, double dating in Time Square, sneaking Romance Magazines into the bedroom so your Mom wouldn’t see them, rubbing hair cream into your Dad’s bald spot, your Mom’s bathrobe catching fire while cooking breakfast. I think the last time I talked to you was in 1988. We were just getting ready to move to Florida and I think your Victoria was about to be married. I know that over the years we haven’t keep in touch as we should have but you were always in my heart and mind. Sharparoon was really the heart and sole of so many of us and it is so heart warming to read all of these letters on the Blog and to renew old friendships. Love, Vicky

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — March 12, 2006 #
Hi Everyone,
Where do I begin? As I started to read all the wonderful and beatiful comments from so many friends, I couldn’t help but travel back to the summers of 1955-1960. The hardest part was reading the comments thru eyes that were so full of tears of joy, to think that I was a part of something that still leaves so many of us feeling that time has not taken away such fond memories . Don’t know how many of you will remember me? I’m Victor G’s cousin from The Bronx, I was a member of Crossroads on 14th St. I remember singing those doowop songs with my older brother Joe, cousin Eddie and my closest friend Eli Saldana( I had a HUGE crush on his younger sister Elia) Those were truly great times with GREAT friends. Not long ago at a place in Long Island , the Gonzalez clan and the Melendez clan got together and I was fortunate to be there and visit with some every great friends from the past. I hope that we can all ” HOOK UP AGAIN ” and ” PASS THE BUG JUICE ”
Bye for now, love
Mickey

Comment by Mickey Castaneda — March 12, 2006 #
I did post to Vicky but now will try this too. What a wonderful idea. Thank you Victor.
I met John Roberts at Sharparoon in 1957— we married in 1959—with the support of the Sharparoon community and we are still going strong—3 children, Alison 43, Jonathan 41 and Caitlin 33. We have 3 granddaughters Natalia 13, Sasha 9, and Olivia 7. STeve Reiss reminded me of the pink eye epidemic that suddenly catalpulted us CIT’s into counselors and we were all divided up in particular groups with big responsiblities. I also remember Bambi’s bloody foot wrapped in a bandage. I lived for the summers. My teenage years were tumultuous and I have many memories of arriving at Patty’s office on 22nd St. unannounced and truant from school (GW) and he always had time for me. Amazing! I credit Patty and the counselors at Sharparoon for their life-line of guidance and support. We have lived in Cambridge, MA for 35 yrs.—John retired after 32 yrs as the Ex Direct. of the ACLUM and I retired from teaching and directing a muticultural child care center that I cofounded in 1971. The peace and justice/anti bias curriculum had its roots in my experiences at Sharparoon as did my activism in the 60’s-the present. Sasha, the 9 year old, claims that I have told her at least 10 versions of the Watermelon Baby. The One-Eyed Miner is more distant. WE have been in touch over the years with John and Mickey Messerschmidt, Dave and Sandy Roak, Mal and Judy Davis, Al Gilburg (Alice Ann died some time after their divorce years ago) Also remain good friends with Janet Jemmott Moses (Westward Ho!) and her husband Bob Moses (SNCC-60’s and the Algebra Project) ) The overnights with soaked blankets (before the era of sleeping bags), the cows at Vincent Farm, the wonderful lake front where I always sank even after numerous lessons and Tom Fell the lifeguard finally declared me dead -weight-in-the-water!, S- Rock, Trout Stream, Bull’s Bridge, rendevous with the kitchen boys in the craft shop on the lake, dancing in the Mess Hall after lights out, Dover Plains movie theatre,Vodka Collins’ at the White Stag, Gloria —nursing my bouts with PI, but most of all the wonderful friends and decentralized camping that made the idea of building community a true reality for kids coming from the inner city of NY. I will get out my scrapbook and see about doing something with the Box Brownie photos to post! Best to All, Cleo (Katherine Cleo Dreyer Roberts)

Comment by Cleo Dreyer Roberts — March 11, 2006 #
Irene, I sent in a picture of Bambi taken in 1951 when I was 11 and in the Frontiersmen (latter changed to the Berkshire Men). The first time that I saw her, she was being carried by another counselor and had blood pouring from her foot. She had just wounded herself while chopping wood with an ax. When the picture is posted, you will see her heavily bandaged left foot. I also remember Rock. My image of him is a sad eyed, tough looking guy, standing in the front of the Mess Hall with his cup of coffee.

Vicky, I remember that you and Cleo always said that your most fabulous year was 1953, but my most memorable year was 1955, the year I became a CIT. That was the year that we had a bad pink eye epidemic, a huge forest fire in the mountain just west of Dead Man’s Mountain (which camp staff helped fight), flooding due to an early hurricane that filled up Lost Lake, a canceled third period either due to the floods or pink eye problem, and a extra large forth period where campers were housed in Sharparoon and Green Acres. There were eight small camps that period and several of the CITs became roving counselors. The Schaghticokes moved into the Ah Wilderness area and I became their roving counselor. We also had some wonderful nights playing and dancing to the early Rock N Roll music in mess hall after the campers went to bed. I still can hear the distant sound of “In The Still In The Night” that I heard while walking toward the mess hall for our nightly social hour.

Victor, thanks for putting together this WEB site

Comment by Steve Reiss — March 10, 2006 #
I, too, thank Victor for taking time to develop this website. As soon as he shared his initial draft my heart skipped a beat, for I readily agreed that it should prove to be an important tool in our dream of reuniting as many former Sharparoon/Green Acres/Teen Valley alumni as possible. I also thank Joni Z. Park and the rest of the “Holmes 18” who were so helpful in energizing our dream of either revitalizing the old Sharparoon philosophy and camping programs (new and improved) at Dover Plains, NY, or banding together to support similar programming at another site.

Indeed, Sharparoon and Green Acres will remain very special for me and my entire family (my wife, children, siblings, parents, aunts, and cousins). My brother Gil and I attended Sharparoon in the early fifties; my grandmother attended Green Acres (GA) with my sisters from its inception (1955?) until the mid-sixties, and my parents attended spring and winter weekend “retreats” with members of the Broome Street Tabernacle and Crossroads Churches. I remember the “High School Conferences” that convened youths from all over the city for learning more about leadership, teamwork, and the Christian faith. I have especially fond memories of GA where I worked as a counselor (1960-64) as well as my couple of weeks of work at Teen Valley in 1965 and when I returned to direct the GA Family Life Education Program from 1970 through 1971.

As with most of you, I was smitten by the wholesome goodness of all the Sharparoon counselors and staff, how everyone genuinely cared about each other, and how they made us feel special. Unfortunately, I have trouble remembering the counselors’ names except for Bob Rankin. Nevertheless, I can visualize them as if I saw them yesterday. More importantly, I recall many of their acts of kindness toward me and my peers.

Similarly, I remember many of the staff members at GA during my summers as a counselor. As at Sharparoon, they came from all over the nation and from several countries. I remember being concerned, during my first summer that working with so many diverse personalities might prove to be a difficult challenge. Not to worry! Pat Zaccara had planned a wonderful orientation program that made it so very easy for us to work as a team. Patty did have some great help from many wonderful persons. Among those individuals, he had Marcy Meyerriecks (Sp?) who was excellent at teaching us how to work with children; Noemi (the cook) and Mary Jenoure the Camp Nurse; CM Board Members who came up to help with our training and/or to volunteer with various activities; and even the Executive Director of CM, Dr. David W. Barry. Of course, there were many others but since I do not have an eidetic memory, my mind has suddenly drawn a blank. Dr. Barry, you might recall, was perhaps the most instrumental person in assuring that not only did the camps thrive but that the partnership with churches was significant and that the in-city youth leadership programs were successful. I will never forget how at one of the high school conferences, he joined a few of us in singong a doo wop song at one of the talent shows. I am grateful to all of them for helping me to learn so much of that which has proved to be extremely valuable to me.

I will write more in separate postings. Right now I want to encourage all of you to continue communicating with us, sharing your stories, and to keep sending those camp pictures. One way or another I believe the Sharparoon Spirit will not only persist within our hearts but that its glow will continue to be shared with folks from all over the map.

Comment by Jose Melendez — March 10, 2006 #
Hi all,
So many memories. Glad to see my older sister Yolanda checked in. I gave out a wrong email address last time. The correct address is lcruz25@comcast.net.
Blessings to all
Lila

Comment by Lila Cruz — March 10, 2006 #
Oh Maria Adinolfi,
My father would love to know if you have “Couth” yet. Remember when Fred grew taller than you. I was thinking about you the other day when I heard Johnny Mathis sing Maria. How are you and Richard?

Comment by Sandra Jenoure — March 10, 2006 #
HEY, VICKY SUE (Adrian told me you dropped the Sue) You will always be
the combo in my memory. Glad that’s cleared up!! What a thrill to have
this site. Reading through the postings fills me with an avalanche of
cherished moments. I’ve been to all the spots countless times in my
recollections. How about the hikes to Trout Stream, hanging out on play-
lodge porch, Ginny reading LETTERS TO JANE, Bambi and Rock Reid (did
they marry?), Patty Lamar, the KBs, morning capers. the beautiful chapel
overlooking the lake, running around the Mess Hall when we arrived late.
Please refresh my memory: I remember being in the Wood Dwellers when
I first started (I think in 1947) — was the name changed to Pine Hollow?
Vicky Sue, you and Adrian and our fellow cabin mates are treasures that
fill me with a deep gratitude to have been part of. The months we spent
together year after year played a huge part in shaping the person I have
become. Your dad was a genius in putting it all together. What an
amazing selections of counselors!!! Back in 1963 I found myself standing
next to Tom T(don’t know the spelling) the handsome lifeguard — at the
March on Washington — when Martin Luther King delivered his I Have A
Dream speech. Thank you Victor for establishing this great site. Irene

Comment by IRENE DREYER MUECK — March 9, 2006 #
HI, GUYS WELL MY MEMORIES OF CAMP ARE OF GREENACRES AND SHAPAROON
AT SOME YEARLY PICNICS. I HAVE PICTURES OF ME, MY SISTER LILA AND MY
TWIN BROTHERS WILLY AND ROBERT IN GREENACRES. SINCE I AM THE OLDEST CHILD IN MY FAMILY I REMEMBER A LOT OF FAMILIES FROM THE OLD CROSSROAD CHURCH ON 14TH ST NYC. THE DRUCKERS, SALDANA, FIGUEROA,MELENDEZ, OF COURSE MY FAMILY AND THE GONZALEZ, ALL FIVE BROTHERS ETC… I GREW UP WATCHING THEM GROWING UP. NICE TO HEAR FROM YOU GUYS.

Comment by YOLANDA CRUZ — March 8, 2006 #
As some of you may remember “Richie” and I met at camp, I was a counselor at Green Acres and Richie was a kitchen staff at Sharparoon. Needless to say our lives changed forever. We went back as counselor and chaplain another year and then as family with our children at Green Acres for a few years later.
I can picture you all as I read your comments. “Evie” Jenoure hard to believe you’re all grown up since when I was a counselor, I think you and I were the same height. NYCM and the camps were such a powerful influence if not the most life-changing eperience of our lives. Will write more soon. I want to get back to the reading of your comments. With much love.
Maria (Colon) and Richie Adinolfi

Comment by Maria and Richard Adinolfi — March 8, 2006 #
Wow! This is just great hearing from so many people.

Hi Myrna: Thanks for the fill in on all of these years that have passed. You live about 2 hours from me and Susan is about 3 hours. I have always wondered how many Sharparooners live in Florida. I bet there are a lot of us. We moved to Florida in 1988 and with the exception of 3 years have lived here since. I live in Port St. Lucie, Florida. Your children sound like loads of fun. You are blessed with them. I have 2 wonderful Sons and 3 Step Children. My husband and I both consider all of our children as ours. We only give the exes credit when they do something that we wouldn’t do!@# My oldest son Gary lives in San Diego, CA and is the Finance Director in La Mesa. My youngest, Jeff, lives in Charlottesville, VA and has 3 children. I married Jim Ameling who was the Chaplin at Sharparoon for 3 years. We were divorsed 21 years later. He is now also remarried and lives in Conn. I remarried 23 years ago to a wonderful man named Win, short for Erwin. We moved from Conn. to Williamsburg, Virginia and that is were we spent most of our married life until we moved to Florida. Win was a High School Band Director and I was a Bank Mananger. Hope to continue to be “pen pals”. Love to Susan and to you. Vicky

Hi Alpha and Donna: Wow, you are really voices from the past. It was great to hear from you both. So many memories. I look forward to both of you filling in the past 50 years or so with info on your lives.

Gilly: I just have to tell you how great your letter was. You have put into words what we all feel no matter what years we were at Sharparoon, Green Acres or Teen Valley. I knew your Dad and Mom and can see that you are continuing to pass on the Spirit of Camping to all who will listen. My Dad, Patty Zaccara, is smiling down on us all. Vicky

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — March 7, 2006 #
It is so good to hear from all of you. It feels as though I have gotten back in touch with some of my long lost family. Each time I come back to the site I re-read the same messages and it just brings back all of the fond memories of the camps and each of you. All of you have reminded me of the many wonderful years that I spent as a camper and a staff member. I’m so proud to say that I was involved in City Mission camps in the 50’s 60’s & early 70’s. That being said you might think that I’m as old as Ralph and Luis Sepulveda but I’m not I began at Green Acres in 56 or 57 as a 2 or 3 year old. My entire summers were spent at the camps. I remember when I had a loose tooth that wouldn’t come out and the Melendez boys (Jose & Gil) tied a string to my tooth and to the door knob and tried to yank my tooth out. Okay it was actually Gil that led this effort. I bring up Gil’s name and my mother’s name Mary Jenoure because of the many wonderful people tied to our camps that we have lost through the years. It is our responsibility to keep our camps and their memories alive. I could go on about who we have lost but I will mention two more names that I feel should come out of our mouths each and every time we say anything about the camps. The first name without question is Pat Zaccara. His name goes hand in hand with our camps but we have failed to mention another extremely important person that was at his side through thick and thin his wife (please forgive me for not knowing how to spell the name of one of my all time favorites) that I will never forget Divi Zaccara. I would wait for Divi to open that candy storeat Green Acres and run as fast as I could to get their first .Vic, you have given us the vehicle to begin this effort and I’m so thankful. Since others are mentioning things that we used to do I will throw three things out there. 1. I was the reason why riding Louis Soto’s motor cycle at camp was banned. 2. I remember taking late night rides on the swamp in the catamaran before that was banned. Last but not least, I remember being woken up by the loud gong bell located in the kichen boys cabin at Green acres because Harald and Bill always slept through the alarm clock. That gong could be heard across the road as I was walking into the kitchen leaving Harald and Bill asleep in the cabin. I could go on but I will chime back in later. God Bless all of you.

Fred

Comment by Frederick E Jenoure — March 7, 2006 #
Shirley and I have spent many a summer at Sharparoon in our younger years and during some of our more “Mature” years. We have many soulful memories of the place and the people and the friends and family and some very special moments. We are very excited about this site and will send more comments and stories later, but for now we want to send greetings to all and a special “Thank you and GOD bless to Victor. Like in T.V. shows - TO BE CONTINUED!!

Comment by RALPH AND SHILEY SEPULVEDA — March 6, 2006 #
Oh my gosh! The S rock, bug juice, Trout Stream and The Watermelon Baby all at once. I’ve told my kids and my husband, Gene, so much about Sharparoon and when I get with my sister Alpha and my dear friend since camp days, Evelyn Morrison Breheny, we can brings tears of joy and laughter to each other. Pat Zaccara was the rarest of men, my minister, and a family friend. I remembver the family days and my mother bringing up all kinds of treats and the picnic we would have after taps.
We live in Florida, Jacksonville, but can travel for a reunion. Will check the web site regularly for any news. Hey Vicki….I remember!
Donna

Comment by Donna Lupoletti Reilly — March 6, 2006 #
Hey everyone! God Jeff! Haven’t heard from you in years. How r things? Glad to see your return. Been outta of the loop a little while sorry guys. Blanca, Mitchell, Gilly, great to hear from all of you. Just a quick note to say hi. Glad to see this website is bringing us back together. Miss the good “ole” days. Love to all! Marlene Leon

Comment by Marlene Maria Leon — March 6, 2006 #
A group of Sharpirits will be attending a meeting with Mr. Ellsworth G. Stanton III, President of the NYCMS Board of Directors and Ms. Stephanie Palmer, NYCMS Executive Director to try to find ways to keep the CM camping programs alive. At this point it looks like there will be no camping programs in 2006. We want to express our thanks to Mr. Stanton and Ms. Palmer for granting us this opportunity. The meeting is scheduled for March 15, 2006 at the CM offices in NY.

* * * * *
I have emailed Ms. Donna P. Hearn, Dover Town Historian (see her post above) and have suggested the possibility of having the Dover Bicentennial Committee designate a day during their celebration as Camp Sharparoon, Green Acres, Teen Valley and Minisink Day. We could then use the date for our camp reunion and get as many Sharpirits as possible to visit Dover Plains share in the celebration and express our gratitude for the recognition.. Maybe we could even get permission from the NY City Mission Society to use the Camp Sharparoon grounds for an afternoon picnic. We will keep you “posted”.

* * * * *
Work on the Sharparoon website is progressing and we are on target for the March 31st rollout. I have received some real nice b&w photos from Steve Reies, George Drucker, Adrian Soto and my brother Luis Gonzalez.

Comment by Administrator — March 5, 2006 #
I was thrilled to find this site. I attended camp in the 50s and have tons of fond memories. Would love to hear from anyone from that time. I did post on the other site to Vicky and Henry and hope to hear from them. Would love to know about Victor’s brothers. Am passing this site on to Sister Donna and Nancy Kocsy Kozak. so you should hear from them. Nancy I do remember your Dad . He took the reins from Patty and did a great job. He had tough shoes to fill

Comment by Alpha Lupoletti Rogers — March 5, 2006 #
Camp Green Acres ~1970-1992

Let me start by saying, as a child and a teen, camp Green Acres was a place I dreamed about year round. It was a place that I looked forwarded to visiting.

As I sit remembering, I am trying to put my finger on what exactly it was that made it so magical? What was the formula for its success? Why are there so many people, over so many years with the same fond memories? And why after all these years the success of their experiences still resonates in their hearts?

It’s mind-boggling?

Looking back now, I only see one common denominator. In my opinion, we all grew up there. And the love, generosity, caring, activities, stories, and spirit were passed down generation to generation. The “Watermelon Baby” story is probably close to 100 years old and if two people told that story today, they would probably say it very similarly.

For me at camp Green Acres, I stepped out of my comfort zone to participate in all the weekend activities, where I knew it was safe.

I learned how to speak in public there. I remember how nervous I was to go up and do my first “Saturday evening” skit and Louie Sepulveda coming up to me afterwards telling me “what a good job I did.” I especially loved how we initiated new campers by having them participate in the “Smart Horse” skit.

I learned to praise the Lord through song and that even on vacation, Sunday was s a day of rest and you praised the Lord. I remember one Sunday morning asking; Frances (Titia) Marchak “how long Sunday services was going to be?” And she said; ‘THERE IS NO TIME LIMIT IN PRAISING THE LORD!” “How ever long it takes!” I have carried those words with me ever since.

I learned “No Man is an Island” and through the “work weekends” one person’s idea can make a difference with the help of a community.

And it was genuine. There was no faking it. Everyone there would walk through fire for each other. It was fun, it was safe, and it was magical.

I am, who I am, today because of my parents Gilberto and Hilda Melendez and the people who surrounded us.

I am blessed and for those of you who have walked through fire for me, I promise to “Pay It Forward” and pass it down to the next generation. (Camp or no camp!)

God Bless.

PS. Does anyone remember “Breaking Night”? Now that was a blast…

Comment by Gilbert (Gilly) Melendez — March 5, 2006 #
Hi to all you YOUNG ‘UNS Most of you have never heard of me, but Sharparoon is where I met my wife, Dee around 1949 or 50. She was also glad to hear bout the latest goings on with NYCMS. I was more connected with Green Acres I often think back to those great summers, winters, falls, work week-ends etc. Let the record show that the original midnight mirauders to raiid kitchens were Everett Sr., Vinnie Sr. and Lu Sepulveda. You young whippersnappers struck at the more exposed Sharparoon. This is PHANTASTIC ! Oh so many, many memories. It boggles this ancient mind. I will write more right now….. I just can’t think on one track. this gets some getting used to. Jose m. has been keeping me abreast, but this web site is the 21st century! Love to all. Oh yes, Victor, God Bless you, surely, Pat is looking down at all this.

Comment by Luis Sepulveda — March 3, 2006 #
I would like to share another memory. Memorial Day weekends bonfire. It would start with a great fire in the pit by the bell. Everyone would sing great camp songs, roasting marshmellows, making smores….. And then it would happen. Somebody would throw the first marshmellow, striking another camper. Next thing you know it would look like it was snowing. I can remember laughing so hard that I couldn’t breath. Love you all, and God Bless. Robbie

Comment by Robert Melendez — March 2, 2006 #
Vicky, this is fun, it’s like having pen pals again. I have 3 sons all in their late 40’s. Tim the youngest is Exec. Administrator at University Village retirement community in Tampa and has two boys, Greg the middle son has Alan’s dreamy eyes, and has his own business, Greg Parker Entertainment, and performs in 300 shows yearly at retirement communities throughout Central Florida, he has a 4000 member Fan Club, the oldest Jeff sings with Greg as the harmony and comic personality, both are more like family to the folks because they sing monthy at the same accounts, which are alot just in the Lakeland and Tampa and Sun City areas. Jeff is also an ordained minister. Sister Sue, we still sing the Peanut Song and Found a Little Chicken, lives with husband Joe in Northern Tampa, she has 6 grandchildren, my brother Gene still lives in Smithtown, Long Island and has too many grandchildren for me to keep a good count. He travels once a year, loves the Mets and the Jets. As for myself, Alan died in 81 in Lakeland, Fl. We have lived in Lakeland for about 33 years. And guess what, I am still in a cafeteria, not like Camp, but at Florida Southern College. I have been senior Manager there for about 33 years. In many ways it’s similiar to Camp because I meet new students every year, connect with returning ones, maintain friendships with professors and staff members and am applying counselling skills I acquired at Sharparoon. I just am happy that this rekindling of memories has made me remember my youth, friendships, skips and bumps along the way and the brightness of the daily future ahead. Myrna

Comment by MYRNA DOUBLE TROUBLE — February 28, 2006 #
Hi Myrna:

Did you get my letter on the other site? I hope so. I have many memories of the double trouble twins. Somewhere I have a picture of both of you sitting on a suitcase. What have you been up to? Fill us in. Glad to see you on the Sharparoon Blog. Have you been in touch with any other Sharparooners? Say Hi to Susan. Vicky

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — February 28, 2006 #
This is Myrna with sister Sue and older brother Gene saying hello to all our campers who were at our side as we made the transition from youth to adulthood. We are the Manzo family and are excited about revisiting camp memories not only in the file cabinet of the mind but making new ones in older bodies at reunions and at the old camp as summer campers once again. Thanks to so many new miracle drugs we can still kick up a storm of trouble and fun. Be healthy and wise, Myrna Manzo A Double Troubler.

Comment by MYRNA DOUBLE TROUBLE — February 27, 2006 #
Hello everyone!

I wanted to let you all know you’re in my thoughts and glad to see you are mostly all well. My father, Victor, invited me to the site to enjoy the communications with family and old friends. Although my camp days were limited, I did enjoy them very much. I still find that one of my biggest memories is learning the word “BUG JUICE”. I was about 14 years old when I heard it and had no idea what it was, but it sure tasted great!

Mitch G

Comment by Mitchell Gonzalez — February 26, 2006 #
What a wonderful website!!!!
Hope a non-camper is OK. I’m contacting your website as Dover’s Town Historian, because the Town of Dover will be celebrating its bicentennial in 2007. For over half a century, camps such as Sharparoon and Minink played an important part in our town. How wonderful that so many of you remember those days so fondly and still keep in touch. What a great legacy.
There are many names I remember from when I worked in DuPlessis’ Drugstore in Dover in the 1960’s.
Hopefully, some you will be willing to share some of your best memories with us, though pictures or stories. Maybe some of you who live closer might enjoy our Bicentennial celebration.
I am so impressed that you are trying to revitalize the camps- children need to know what it is like to hear the birds and smell the pines.
Thanks so much for letting me post this.
Donna P. Hearn

Comment by Donna Peterson Hearn — February 25, 2006 #
Greetings,
I have just spent the last half hour looking around this new website. Thank you for putting it together. I check the other site about once a month (that’s how I found out about this one).
As I read through the postings there are only a few names that I recognize. Sharparoon was part my life from 1959 to 1964. Maybe a lot of the names are more current than from that time frame.
Like Butch, my husband and I visited Sharparoon a few years ago and our impression of the place was just like his….it was very run down…very sad to see. My husband took some pictures…I’ll see if I can find them. Butch and my brother (Glenn) and I were able to reconnect this past summer. He and his wife Lucy and Glenn’s family and and my family got together for a day in August. It was such fun to sit and remember old times. Butch lives only an hour away from me and we never new that until this summer.
I still keep in contact with a few people….Tim Greene, Norm White, Clare Staff, John and Sue Hales.
I wonder how many remember my Dad!! I certainly remember Pat Zaccara….He baptized my first son back in 1977. I truly loved that man.
It will be wonderful to hear from others from the 50’s and 60’s. Maybe I will recognize more names.
God Bless….
Nancy

Comment by Nancy Gertsen Stansfield — February 25, 2006 #
Vicky,
Delia S. is a teacher in the Bronx. I’ll send her the information about the website. We were together in East Harlem for a long while. Ruth was up here in NYC not too long ago. She had been living in Texas, I think she stayed here but I’m not sure. I had heard that Lygia’s daughter went back to Cuba and was married to a soldier that was stationed in Angola. But that was a long time ago. I’ve not heard about her since.
No more pulling pigtails, Butch, my hair is short now!

Wow! The Watermellon Baby, that was a scary one. But the worst, for me, was to be out on an overnight and hear the story of the “Onion Town” people, and some lived at the edge of the forest near Teen Valley. We used to run past their house on the way to our campsite.
I loved when it snowed and Hans would take out the Toboggan and we’d all pile on and go down the hill at Green Acres.

Comment by Sandra Jenoure — February 24, 2006 #
Hi Henry:

I will try to get used to calling you Henry. Thank you for the confession. You made my day. No, you made my year. We sure have loads of memories to live with. You are right, I wouldn’t have thought you would become Chief of Police. I bet you were terrific. Did you tell them about all of the trouble you used to get into??? Only kidding. I also have a child in California. My son, Gary, lives in San Diego. My other son, Jeff, lives in Charlottesville, Virginia. I also have three Step Children. One in Agoura, California, one in Conn. and one in Florida. I was interested to hear that Hanna lives in Daytona Beach. Tell her to get on the Blog and fill us in.

Take care,
Vicky

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — February 23, 2006 #
Hi Sandy:

I was so happy to hear from you. You were my “wonderful” camper and I have thought about you and remembered you fondly throughtout the years. Do you know of anyone else that was in our cabin. What has happened to Ligia Montalvo? I know I have spelled her name wrong! Do you remember Ruth and Delia. Ruthie had such a crush on Kent Miller. I remember she asked me if she could have the carton from my Cigs and she cut it out and hung the KENT over her bed. I don’t think she was more than 8 or 9 at the time. We did have wonderful times.

Your Mom was one of my favorite people and we had many good times together.

Keep in touch and I am so happy to have heard from you.

Love,
Vicky

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — February 23, 2006 #
Hi all!

It’s great to see people visiting the site and posting memories of days gone by - spread the word! Thank you Victor…I need help with something; does anyone recall what the logos for Sharparoon and Green Acres were? It seems to me that for Sharparoon it was a maroon interlocked C&S inside of a double bordered circle with NYC Mission Society emblazoned inside the borders…Green Acres is even more foggy through the mist of time but I seem to recall some pine trees in it somewhere…Am I on the right track? If you have photos of the old sweatshirts or the logos themselves please feel free to email copies to the site or to me personally at hcruzado@sharparoon.com …Thanks

Comment by Hector C — February 23, 2006 #
Hi everyone;
Many of you wanted to know about my parents (Mama and Hans) and what I have been up to, so here goes. After leaving Sharparoon, my parents moved to a little town in the Pocono Mtns called Pocono Pines. They worked at a resort/camp comples called Pocono Crest which was formally known as Luther Land. They eventually retired and moved to Florida. Dad passed away in 1983 Mom passed away in 1993. When I graduated from college, I moved to Pocono Pines and I’m still here. I was a member of the local police force and served as Chief of Police (believe that) for 10 years until a regional force was formed where I served as Lt. until I retired in 2000. In 2003 I started a small landscaping/excavating business (I always had a thing for tractors). My sister, Hanna, lives in Daytona Beach with her husband and both her daughters live nearby. I have 2 children, my daughter Nancy who lives in Santa Rosa, Ca and my son Hans who lives here in the Poconos. In 1990 I was appointed to the Board of Education of the Pocono Mountain School District and I’m still on the Board. Our district was for a number of years the fastest growing school distrct in Pa. Our enrollment when I started on the board was 5300 students and now our enrollment is slightly over 12,000. I hope that some type of reunion can be set up, I’d love to see some old friends. Vicki, I can’t imagine you looking any different that how I remember you. Confession time………..I had a big crush on you. Joani, I can still remember coming home from your wedding in the hurricane and the water washing over the top of Dover Furnace Road. Sandy, I remember the times with your mom and dad and especially your pig tails that I loved to pull all the time. I haven’t heard of told the Watermellon Baby story in years, but I can still remember all the times that Patty would scare the living heck out of us when he told it. Take care every one and hope to hear from ya soon.

Comment by Henry (Butch) Bockelman — February 23, 2006 #
Hey Jeff, I will give you another great memory. Night hikes!!!!! Taking the younger campers on the hikes and scaring them on the way. Giving everyone a number and then having count off. Then you being last in line count your number like 19 and in another voice count 20. That always freaked the kids out. CLASSIC. Email me Jeff @ sg4430@hotmail.com. Would love to catch up. God Bless Robbie

Comment by Robert Melendez — February 22, 2006 #
Hi Vicky,
Remember me your “wonderful” camper. I’ve thought of you often and always of the wonderful time I had as your camper.
Camp the property and Camp the experience was always beautiful. I still drive up there just to see the property and sometimes to give my daughter a tour. I took the son of a friend to the furnace two summers ago while visiting my Aunt and Uncle. He was so excitied about being in a forest and drinking from a real stream. I relived my experience through his eyes. I remember the time my mother came with us to “Lost Lake”. I never understood why she wore white pants. They didn’t stay white for long. That day we swam in “Trout Stream” in underware. I have a picture of the “God is Love” Rock. Oh yes and those pictures of Louie Soto in Drag. What a wonderful life we had.

Hi Butch! Yeah Mary Jenoure’s little brat. I liked following you around. I went to Dutchess Community College too. Can’t wait for the reunion. Well thank you for the opportunity to go back to a place I love. I hope to see you all soon.
Sandy

Comment by Sandra Jenoure — February 21, 2006 #
Hi Sharpirits,
Many of you won’t remember me ( I am Victor G. youngest cousin) but I remember some of you and my mom(Frances Cruz) remembers you and your families. Regards from CT. I would love to go to a reunion either in upstate NY or in the City. I will check in for that! My warmest regards to you George D.if you remember me. I can be reached at lcruz@comcast .net
Hope to see you all!
God bless,
Lila

Comment by Lillian Cruz (Lila) — February 21, 2006 #
Robbie, You had to Mention the raiding of the kitchen, we got away with that for so many years, that and many other things. This is absolutely incredible! I can not believe that I am here writing this. It is good to see that many of my friends are doing well! Thank you for all the great times that we had. I will never forget many of them. I am well and here, and glad to help if I can.
Jeff Jenoure

Comment by Jeff Jenoure — February 21, 2006 #
To All: I would like to thank Vic for all of his hard work because Sharparoon means so much to so many people and through his hard work we now have the ability to communicate with our friends and family. Vic’s effort enables me to remember my camping years as well as allow my mother’s legacy to continue. My mom, Maria “Mary” Jenoure was the nurse at Green Acres for so many years. I attended camp green acres from the approximate age of 2 through 9. I also progressed through all three camps at Sharparoon. I then became a member of Junior Staff at Shaparoon while holding the position of Third Cook. After working at Sharparoon I worked for a few years back at Green Acres in the kitchen with Naomi. As you can see so many of my complete summers were spent attending City Mission camps as a camper and as a staff member. My sister Sandra Jenoure also attended and worked for many years. My younger Brothers Jeff and Phillip Jenoure attended the Camping Plus component of our wonderful camping programs. It is now time for me to give back to this wonderful organization to try to re-establish the tremendous programs that were so instrumental in helping me become the individual that I am today. I could go on and on about my fond memories of Green Acres and Sharparoon but it would take too long. The Jenoure family is committed to this effort to re-open our wonderful camps and look forward to a sucessful campaign to achieve this very important goal. I also look forward to re-connecting with our friends and family.

Frederick E Jenoure

Comment by Frederick E Jenoure — February 20, 2006 #
The best Watermelon Baby story was the night we were all in the Kitchen and all of a sudden the lights went out. Uncle Gil was telling the story and my Dad helped by turning off the lights and making horrible noises. Talk about screaming and crying. Whoaaaaaa!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Comment by Marlene Maria Leon — February 18, 2006 #
Yep Robs right the pic was 1984 I know cause I had short hair and that was the last time I ever had my hair quite that short! I was a freshman in High school at the time!

Comment by Blanca (Blanquita) Bonsangue — February 18, 2006 #
Hi Adrian: I think it is very ironic that it took Victor to get you to go on the computer. All these years that we have communicated by phone you swore you didn’t even know how to use one except at work. Thanks Victor. Of course I remember Cabin A and every other wonderful memory at Sharparoon. You, Irene, and I were like triplets. Yes, those Kitchen Boys were hot stuff! I remember leaving camp one summer to go to the City to be in your Wedding. Do you remember Cheese Wiz and Ritz Crackers, bats in the cabins, praying for rain so we could dance with our favorite guys etc, etc. etc. I remember all of the fun things as well as all of life’s lessons that I learned at Sharparoon. Do you realize that we have known
each other since we were eight years old. The great thing about that is that every time we talk on the phone it is as if not a year has passed. I hate to tell you this but we have know each other for 58 years.That is true friendship. Love you you and Joe

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — February 18, 2006 #
The new photo posted on the website was in 1983 or 1984. I see Blanquita, with her friend Jodi, Jay Melendez the Leon Clan, the Jenores, The Riveras, The Druckers, The Figs, The Melendezs, and Sara.
Here is a new memory. The Watermelon Baby: This story was told by my father so many times, that I can tell it in my sleep. However the best time he told it, was in the basement of the Old Manor House. There were only about a dozen of more of us to have been there for that one. My father learned that story from Pat Zacarra. I am going to sit down one day and put the story down on paper, and file it in my computer. I hope to tell the story around a camp fire at camp in the near future. God Bless you all Robbie.

Comment by Robert Melendez — February 18, 2006 #
Hi Vicki, Remmber 1953 Cabin A The Mommys member of this elite group; Julie, Marilyn, Bertie , Phyllis, Gladys, Vicke S. and yours truly. What a great time we had. those kitchen boys thought they were hot stuff. THEY Were!! Hope to see you sometime this year. Remember I can be very pleasant when I want to be. Love Ya Adrian

Comment by Adrian Gonzalez Soto — February 17, 2006 #
We are in the early planning stages for a camp Sharparoon reunion to be held in NYC sometime this fall. Although many of us have moved away from New York we feel that the City is the place to have the first reunion. We need your ideas and thoughts so we can come up with a program that will appeal to the greatest number of Alumni. We are also thinking of having a weekend retreat at the Presbyterian Center in Holmes, NY. As soon as we have concrete information on the dates and cost we will post it on the website.

Comment by Administrator — February 17, 2006 #
Hey don’t forget about us down here in Georgia. Just cause we haven’t been around in years doesn’t mean we don’t dream of being there still. Miss you guys alot, and hope to see some of you or all of you real soon. Thanks for the website, it’s great. See ya’ll rael soon. That’s southern for “see you all real soon.”
Billy Leon

Comment by Bill and Gigi Leon — February 14, 2006 #
Hey Campers!
I would like to start something that was started here in North Carolina at Justin’s house during the holidays. Robbie, Gilly, Justin, Jordan, Ronnie & Jose and all spouses that have been to camp were just reminiscing about some of our favorite talent shows. Anyone out there have a favorite they would like to share we are sure to all get a lot of laughs out of this topic! Love and miss all of you!
Blanquita

Comment by Blanca (Blanquita) Bonsangue — February 13, 2006 #
Hi folks!

At the February 9, 2006 board meeting of the New York City Mission Society, Mr. Ellsworth G. Stanton III, who is the President of the Board, stated that he is looking forward working closely with the alumni groups towards reopening the Camps.

Comment by George Drucker — February 13, 2006 #
Hey, does anybody know what happened to a couple of old peeps we haven’t heard from in ages. Like Danny & Laura or Jeff Jenoure or ……..add a few names to the list and lets see if we can find out about them.

Comment by Marlene Maria Leon — February 13, 2006 #
Oh my God. We had so many of those late nights, early morning deals. I remember the night (this was one of the winter trips because it was cold as you know what outside) and we (the teens then) were cuddled up in a corner room (which is now used by the Saldanas - well when we use to go). We all froze our butts off but none of us wanted to leave. “Those were the days, my friends. We thought they’d never end……….. la, la,la …….so awesome those days. As young adults, we had another night of Doctor. Boy did we learn somethings about each other that night…..Whoa……I miss you guys! Love always, Marlene

Comment by Marlene Maria Leon — February 13, 2006 #
Vicky, thanks for the link to the Minisink Alumni page that is dedicated to Camp Sharparoon, Green Acres and Teen Valley - Mid 60s. I have added a link to our Blog and to the Sharparoon website for easy access to the page, however, there is no link from the Minisink Alumni pages back to our website. Thanks for your support. I can’t wait till you open the vault and start releasing some of the old camp pictures for publication. That should be a lot of fun. I have received quite a few photos and have asked Jose Melendez to be the website’s photo editor. He will very soon have an active sharparoon.com email address. Thanks again.

Comment by Administrator — February 12, 2006 #
I didn’t know if any of you knew (Butch, you do) that there is another Sharparoon site out there. There are many interesting letters posted there. Especially one that is from a man that was at Sharparoon before my Dad was there. He is a writter and wrote a great letter about his memories. I have posted a letter there telling everyone about this site so hopefully they will come on over!

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — February 12, 2006 #
I have a memory to post. When we went to camp in my teen years I can remember raiding the kitchen with: Audrey, Gilly, Phillip and Jeff Jenore, Marlene and Billy Leon, Rose and Eric Saldana, I know I am leaving a few out. I can remember being in the kitchen till 3am just laughing and carrying on like teens did then. I went to camp from birth 1966 till 2004. I hope and pray that I can bring Emily and Alex back soon. Love you all Robbie

Comment by Robert Melendez — February 12, 2006 #
Hi Sharpirits! I am so happy to have so many of you “check-in”. Thank you for your posts and the positive response. We need to spread the word to as many Sharparoon alumni as possible. We want to hear from you. Hector Cruzado, the author of the first post on this blog, is a web designer and I have asked him to help me create a website we will all be proud of. We are targeting April 1, 2006 as the launch date. Please post your ideas so that we can get a dialogue going. Stay in touch and visit the blog often. “Them bones are going to rise again”. Victor Gonzalez

Comment by Victor Gonzalez — February 11, 2006 #
Hi all
Victor is great to have gotten this off the ground…and Butch you are a wonderful voice from the past, and like Vicky I would love to know where you are and how the rest of family is….I know Hans and Mama were in Florida for a while when my Mom and Dad were there….catch us up. You were never a brat (well maybe a little, but that was because it was hard to be the son of one of the people who made camp run…)
Sharparoon was really special to all of us….I was at camp from 1947 ( when it was all boys and I was in seventh heaven), until 1955 when I got married. Met my husband there, as many others did.
Sharparoon Spirits never die, and we are all lucky to have that shared love to keep in our hearts. We had a wonderful mini reunion not too long ago..Victor and Kathy Gonzalez, Jose and Ronnie Melendez, Irma Morales, Jose and Elba Figueroa, Fred and Pam Jenoure,The Sepulveda’s, George Drucker, Adrian and Joe Soto, Lydia and Joe Brown,…. we shared many hours of memories, we watched the film “No Man Is and Island”, and had some long range plans put together for future gatherings.
The one thing we know is that we would love to continue keeping in touch…maybe plan a reunion somewhere over the Labor Day weekend that would include the many generations of us who are out there…our place, the hills, cabins and lake at Sharparoon as we knew it, may not be there , but the spirit is and we can take that anywhere and meet….how about it!!!!???? Keep this going….Love to you all…Joni Zaccara Park

Comment by Joni Zaccara Park — February 10, 2006 #
This deserves a Triple (Clap) from the Leon’s in Florida. Cudos & thanks to Victor. Great way to keep in touch. and to travel down memory lane. No way can they kill the Shaparoon Spirit. We are family!

Comment by Willie & Luz Leon — February 10, 2006 #
Hi Everyone. Butch how can I forgive you for being a brat when I was one too. At least in our younger years right. It is great to hear from you on this great site. What have you been up to? Where do you live? Fill us all in on your life. What about Hanna? Where is she? I remember Hans and Mama with such fond memories. I am sorry to hear that our faces have faded in your memory. I would much rather you remember my face of the past than the one I am stuck with now@#$%^

Hi to you too Robert. What great fun this is. The “bug juice” comment sure brought back memories of the Mess Hall and all of those great songs we used to sing.

I wish that everyone that writes would tell what years they were at Sharparoon. I was a camper and counselor from 1948 to 1960. One of those years was spent at Green Acres.

Love to all, Vicky

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — February 9, 2006 #
This is great!!!! Hi Vicky, Angel, Marlene, Butch, and everyone else. I have so many memories, I don’t know where to start. So I will write some down first and try to put them in some type of order. God Bless you all.

Comment by Robert Melendez — February 9, 2006 #
I hope some of you remember me and after all these years have forgiven me for being a brat during my younger years (especially Joani and Vicki). I stopped and visited Sharparoon about 3 years ago and was apalled at the condition of Camp. The years of neglect and the lack of use was very evident. I hiked to Little Sharparoon and the trail have been all but destroyed by logging that had taken place years previously. It’s amazing that after all these years and all the roads our respective lives have taken us down, those summers we spent so long ago are still so clear and important to us. Reading the names of those that have written still ring bells in my head while the faces have faided from my memory. I hope to hear from some of you, especially my to older Zaccara sisters.

Comment by Henry (Butch) Bockelman — February 8, 2006 #
What a wonderful opportunity to connect with old friends. Life has kept me busy but i have never forgotten my roots. I have fond memories of my years at Sharparoon, Green Acres and the Church of the Crossroads.

Maggie

Comment by Maggie Ortiz — February 8, 2006 #
I thought that I would never get the opportunity to share stories, comments, episodes etc etc other than my cousin. But hey, someday we may be able to share a campfire and relive some of ALL our shares.

Victor, yr good and as I said my spirit support love and stories are with “Camp Sharparoon”

“Pass the “Bug Juice” Peace!

Comment by Paul Feliciano — February 6, 2006 #
AWESOME! AWESOME! AWESOME! Hopefully we can all connect with a blast from the past!

Comment by Marlene Maria Leon — February 6, 2006 #
Thank you Victor, I know that this will make a lot wonderful connections happen. I hope that everyone who leaves remarks and have email “names” that are difficult to decipher, will leave their old “Sharparoon” names so that we know who it is that wrote. Abrazos, Angel

Comment by Angel L Martinez — February 4, 2006 #
This is going to be great. Thanks Victor for doing this. I can’t wait to meet old friends again. Sharparoon continues to be the brightest spot in my heart. I grew up there and hold the place, the spirit, the people, the lessons, the fun, the love and the friendships so dear. ” Sharparoon Spirits Never Die” I will write more later. Hi to everyone.

Vicky

Comment by Vicky Zaccara Sapiro — February 4, 2006 #
FInally! I can’t wait to see it come to life…Thank you Victor

Comment by Hector Cruzado — February 4, 2006 #

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