To say I was absolutely thrilled after reading about Camp Askenota [“The joys of summer,” May/June 2015] would be an understatement.
I spent two of the most memorable weeks of my youth at that Boy Scout camp on Moose Island in Lake Placid in August of 1953. The memories are still quite vivid even now at seventy-six years young.
Some memories:
I completely filled my canoe with pine boughs, which each Explorer had to obtain for his bed. I believe that I had the most comfortable bough bed in the camp.
“Nurse” (Barbara Wadsworth) owned a Dalmation at that time, and this dog would not go near anyone. I had to visit Nurse for a couple of bandages, and I got to be the only Scout in the camp to pet her dog.
“Director” (Bill Wadsworth) was the ultimate counselor, and I still treasure my Askenota Camp Award that he signed.
I was fortunate to be selected to ride as a “spotter” in the Chris-Craft ski boat when we were learning to water ski. Big thrill indeed!
Viewing Whiteface on days when it wasn’t raining and climbing Marcy were part of the love affair of that “special” place.
Jerry Gingalewski, Syracuse
I attended a session in 1954. Learned all about canoeing. Hiked up Whiteface once. Also a hike up Mount Colden in the high peaks area. All great experiences.