Chenny Blog

One of the greatest things about Camp Chen-A-Wanda is that everyone finds their thing. That is the beauty of this crazy, magical place. Not every camper is going to score the winning goal. Not every camper is going to hit the walk-off home run or stand at center stage during Sign & Song. And that’s exactly the way it should be. Because here, there truly is something for everyone.

Today, I walked into Arts & Crafts and immediately stopped in my tracks. Sitting at one of the tables was a Senior boy carefully placing tiny Pix Brix pieces together to create the most elaborate giant Harry Potter crest I have ever seen. It wasn’t something he threw together in an hour. He had been working on it for days. What made it even more special was that somewhere along the way, another camper, a Senior girl, asked if she could join him. From that moment on, it wasn’t his project anymore. It became their project. They spent electives together. They spent free time together. Piece by piece, they built something remarkable. As I stood there watching this unlikely duo create their masterpiece, I couldn’t help but smile. Because what they were building wasn’t just art. They were building a friendship. That’s the part that means the most. One camper has an idea, follows something they’re passionate about, and another camper is inspired enough to say, “Can I help?”

That simple question changes everything. Those moments happen here every single day. Sometimes they’re loud and obvious, and sometimes they’re quiet enough that only a few people notice. But today, I noticed.  And it filled me with a level of pride that is hard to describe. Connection happens here. Two kids who may never have crossed paths discover a shared interest. They spend time together. They learn about one another. They laugh. They create. Before they know it, their world has grown just a little bit bigger.

Those are the victories that don’t show up on a scoreboard. I love watching our campers compete. I love celebrating championships, performances, and accomplishments on the fields and courts. But I also love the quieter victories. The confidence a camper gains by stepping onto a stage. The joy of discovering a hidden talent. The pride of creating something with your own hands. And the friendship that forms because someone else decides to pull up a chair and join you. That Harry Potter crest was intricate. It was beautiful. It required patience, creativity, teamwork, and countless hours of effort.

As you know, we have temporarily paused traveling to other camps and hosting intercamp games due to the stomach virus that has affected several of our neighboring camps. We know how much our campers look forward to competing against other camps and seeing friends throughout the summer. Those games are an exciting part of camp life, and this wasn’t a decision we made lightly. However, the health and well-being of our campers and staff will always come first. With the virus continuing to circulate, we simply don’t feel the risk is worth exposing our camp community. That didn’t mean the competition stopped. It just meant we got creative.

Today, camp was filled with friendly rivalries as we organized Red vs. Gold, Freshmen vs. Juniors, Inters vs. Collegiates, and other  matchups across campus. The fields were full, the sidelines were cheering, and the competitive spirit was alive and well. The games were played, the laughs were shared, and our campers had an absolute blast. Sometimes life asks you to adjust your plans. At Chenny, we believe in being the river, not the rock. We don’t dwell on what we can’t do, we focus on what we can do. We adapt, we innovate, and we continue creating unforgettable experiences for our campers.

Our GCs are still out West, exploring, adventuring, and having the time of their lives! Day 2 in San Diego was nothing short of incredible. The day began with an unforgettable whale-watching excursion, where campers experienced the beauty of the Pacific Ocean and all that it has to offer. Afterward, they enjoyed some well-deserved downtime, soaking up the California sunshine while relaxing by the resort pool. As the sun began to set, the adventure continued with a trip to Belmont Park, where they spent the evening enjoying the boardwalk, rides, games, and everything that makes this iconic beachfront amusement park so special. Every day of this West Coast adventure is creating memories that will last a lifetime. There is nothing quite like experiencing California with your closest camp friends. It’s good to be a GC!

Today was another full and action-packed day at Chenny. From the fields to the waterfront, arts to adventure, camp was buzzing with energy from the moment reveille sounded until the sun went down. There is definitely a feeling around camp that we are entering the final stretch of the summer. While the end is beginning to come into view, there is still so much left to experience. The calendar may say there are only a handful of “regular” camp days remaining, but our campers know that some of the biggest memories of the summer are still ahead. There is still so much laughter to share, so many friendships to strengthen, and so many moments left to enjoy.

Our Supers got back from Boston and got off the bus with huge smiles on their face and hands full of shopping bags. They all raved about their Boston adventure and nothing makes us happier than seeing our campers roll back into camp loving the journey but so happy to be back here.  Our CIT’s had the same feeling of loving thier Lake George experience but wanted to be back at their summer home. Its nice to go on vacation butits always great to come back home and all out traveling kids felt that exact way.

There are traditions at Camp Chen-A-Wanda that we all look forward to every summer, and Halloween at Chenny has become one of the absolute favorites. What started years ago as a simple Halloween costume contest has evolved into something so much bigger. Today, our bunks don’t just wear costumes, they create an experience. Coordinated themes, incredible creativity, unbelievable attention to detail, and so much excitement make this one of the most anticipated nights of the summer.

And this year…WOW! The costumes were beyond anything we could have imagined. As each bunk made its way down the catwalk, we couldn’t stop smiling. Every group somehow managed to outdo the last. It was adorable, hilarious, creative, and simply impressive. The thought and effort that went into each costume was remarkable. To all of the parents, grandparents, family members, and friends back home who helped coordinate these incredible costumes… BRAVO! You truly took Halloween to the next level this summer. Our campers looked absolutely incredible, and you helped create memories they will never forget. There were so many unforgettable costumes. The Girls Bunk B Bees were absolutely buzzing with excitement. The Chen-A-Wanda Munchkins looked like they had skipped right out of Dunkin Donuts and  Boys Bunk G GOATS had everyone loving their costume. Everywhere you looked there was another creative idea that had us saying, “How are we ever going to pick a winner?” It wasn’t easy. In fact, it was incredibly difficult. After much debate, we selected two overall winners. On the boys’ side, Boys A completely stole our hearts as the Minions.  On the girls’ side, Bunk G earned top honors as the Grannies. They didn’t just wear costumes, they became their characters. Complete with gray wigs, canes, glasses, and all the little details, they committed from beginning to end. They had everyone laughing and absolutely deserved the win.

But the real winner tonight was camp. After the costume contest ended, it was time for one of the sweetest traditions of the summer…Trick-or-Treating around Chenny! As fate would have it, the rain started falling. In all my years at Chenny, I honestly can’t remember a rainy Halloween quite like this one. Did the campers care? Not for one second. If anything, it made the night even more memorable. Watching campers run from candy station to candy station in their costumes, laughing with their friends, collecting candy, and jumping through puddles without a care in the world was pure childhood at its finest. Every puddle became another reason to laugh. Every raindrop became part of the adventure. There’s something magical about seeing children experience that kind of freedom.

These are the moments that define childhood. The ones that can’t be recreated, can’t be bought, and will be remembered long after the costumes are packed away. Tonight was another reminder that the magic of Chenny isn’t found in perfect weather or perfect plans. It’s found in the joy of children simply being kids. And tonight, they did exactly that.

Our GC’s are the only group out of camp and they are having an adventure of a lifetime. It was to Pacific Beach for a full beach day and surf lessons. Our kids had the absolute best day learning how to surf in the pacific ocean. The trip has just begun and they are off to a great start!!!

Life is really really GREAT!!!

There are certain days each summer that remind us just how special camp can be, and today was one of those days. Today every single camper was out of camp on an adventure. From Pennsylvania to New York, Massachusetts to California, our Chenny kids were exploring, laughing, making memories, and experiencing the world together with their camp family. While the rain may have fallen in some places, nothing could dampen the excitement or the joy that filled this incredible day.

Our Freshmen, Juniors, and Middies spent the day at Kalahari Indoor Water Park, and it couldn’t have been a more perfect destination. While it rained outside, our youngest campers were racing down water slides, floating through the lazy river, splashing in the wave pool, and enjoying every minute together. It was nonstop smiles from the moment they arrived until they climbed back on the buses. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect for a day inside one of the best indoor water parks.

Meanwhile, our Inters and Collegiates headed to Syracuse for an unforgettable day. The fun began at the bowling alley, where lots of laughs set the tone. From there, they made their way to Destiny Mall  which was AWESOME! More than just shopping, it is packed with attractions and experiences, and our campers took full advantage of everything it had to offer. They explored, laughed, shopped, and simply enjoyed being together. As the buses pulled back into camp tonight, we heard the same comment over and over again: “That was the best trip ever!” Those are the words we love to hear when the kids come off the bus from a trip day.

Our Seniors returned from their overnight at Hershey Park, and what an incredible experience it was. Between the roller coasters, chocolate, time with friends, and the excitement of spending the night together, this trip was everything they hoped it would be and more. The memories made over the past two days will stay with them for a lifetime along with the matching Hershey and Resses PJ bottoms everyone bought.

Our Supers continued their Boston adventure with another spectacular day. They toured the legendary Fenway Park, walked through  Quincy Market, and climbed aboard one of Boston’s famous Duck Tours, seeing the city from both land and water. Every stop has given them another reason to fall in love with one of the greatest cities, and they are soaking up every minute together.

Across the country, our GCs officially kicked off their unforgettable California adventure. They arrived safely in San Diego, and from the very beginning, the excitement has been off the charts. Day one couldn’t have gone better, and knowing everything that lies ahead for them this week makes us just as excited as they are. This is one of the signature experiences of a Chenny career, and their adventure is just getting started.

Our CITs are continuing to have an amazing time in Lake George, embracing every moment of their trip. From outdoor adventures to spending quality time together, they’re creating memories that will stay with this group forever.

Our campers weren’t just taking trips, they were discovering new places, sharing new experiences, building confidence, and creating the kinds of memories that become stories they’ll tell for years to come. One of the greatest gifts of camp is that it expands a child’s world. It teaches them to be adventurous, to try new things, and to experience life alongside their closest friends. Today was a beautiful reminder of exactly that.

Whether racing down water slides, walking through historic cities, cheering on friends at the bowling alley, exploring California, rafting through Lake George, or standing inside Fenway Park, our campers were doing what Chenny kids do best, embracing every opportunity with joy and gratitude. Today, the world became their playground. Its good to be a Chenny kid!

 

It was an early morning departure for our Supers as they boarded the buses and headed off on their incredible three-day adventure to Boston. The excitement was contagious as they said goodbye to camp off they went to explore the great city of Boston. Once they arrived, they spent the day exploring historic Harvard Square, strolling through the streets, soaking in the atmosphere, and taking in one of America’s most iconic college towns. They also loved walking through Faneuil Hall, experiencing the energy of downtown Boston, and making memories together with their camp family. It was the perfect first day of an unforgettable trip.

Our CITs also embarked on an incredible adventure as they traveled to Lake George. The highlight of their day was an amazing white-water rafting experience that had everyone smiling from ear to ear. From soaring the rapids to laughing together along the way, it was a day they won’t forget.

Meanwhile, our Seniors spent the day at Hershey Park, where chocolate, roller coasters, great friends, and nonstop fun made for an absolutely perfect day. They loved every minute of it and returned with huge smiles and stories to share. A perfect day for our Seniors.

Although camp was missing three divisions today, you would never have known it. Back at Chenny, the energy never slowed down. Activities were buzzing from morning until night, fields and courts were full, the lake and pools were packed, and campers embraced another beautiful summer day. With less than three weeks remaining, everyone is making the most of every single moment. There is a great energy throughout camp that every day matters, and our campers are determined to get every ounce of fun out of this incredible summer we are all having together.

Adding to the excitement, our GCs could barely contain themselves all day as they packed for the adventure of a lifetime. Late tonight, they’ll depart for their unforgettable eight-day California trip. The anticipation has been building for months, and now it’s finally here. Our GC’s are in for a week of travel with their Chenny family and explore the best parts of Cali.  From exploring the West Coast together to creating memories that will last forever, this trip is one of the defining moments of a camper’s Chenny experience. It’s the culmination of years of friendships, growth, and anticipation, and we couldn’t be more excited for everything that lies ahead for this incredible group.

One thing is certain…the summer just keeps getting better and better and better.

 

Every day at Camp Chen-A-Wanda has its own personality. Yesterday was filled with big emotions, joyful reunions, and one of the most meaningful Visiting Days we’ve ever experienced. There was so much excitement, so much love, and so much gratitude throughout camp. Today felt different. Not quieter by any means. Just calmer. There was an unmistakable feeling that settled over camp today, and the only way I can describe it is that it felt like home.

There was a sense of ease everywhere you looked. Campers moved from activity to activity without rushing. The lake was peaceful. The courts were full. The fields were busy. The laughter was still there, but it wasn’t loud, It was relaxed. Comfortable. Familiar.

Your kids know exactly where they’re going. They know their counselors. They know their friends. They have favorite activities, routines they love, and places around camp where they just hang. They walk through camp with confidence because Chenny no longer feels like a place they’re visiting. It feels like their home.

Watching campers move so effortlessly through their day is one of our favorite parts of the summer. One minute they’re on the basketball court, the next they’re in Arts & Crafts. They head from tubing to tennis, from cooking at the Chenny Shack to School of Rock, and then gather together at Snack Call to enjoy live music with their friends. There isn’t a worry about what’s coming next. They’re simply enjoying exactly where they are. And that’s a beautiful thing.

Before Visiting Day, we announced this week’s Kind Campers, and we wanted to once again recognize these incredible young people:

Sam Schrager, David Chuven, Spencer Simon, Andrew Falkowitz, Talia Helbling, Emma Bruck, Riley Silbert, Sienna Sussman, Maya Kushner, Dani Donoghue, Wren Parkes, Ivy Haven, Remy Acree, and Jordan Chaput.

These campers make a difference every single day. They lead with kindness, empathy, respect, and compassion, and they help make Camp Chen-A-Wanda the special place that it is. We are incredibly proud of each and every one of them.

As amazing as the day was, tonight belonged to one of Chenny’s most treasured traditions… Girls Sing.

This camp tradition is woven into the very fabric of Girls Side. It is a tradition that connects today’s campers with the generations of girls who stood on that same stage decades before them. Every dance, every cheer, and every Alma Mater becomes part of the story of Camp Chen-A-Wanda. Shields Hall was packed from wall to wall. Even counselors who had the evening off made their way back because they wouldn’t dream of missing one of the best nights of the summer. From the moment our Freshmen stepped onto the stage, we knew we were in for something special.

We filmed the entire evening and can’t wait to share it with all of you. Our team is already hard at work editing the videos, and we promise to get them posted as soon as possible so you can experience just how incredible your daughters were tonight.

Congratulations to our Lower Camp Champions…the Middys!

And congratulations to our Upper Camp Champions…the GCs!

One of the most touching moments of the evening belonged to our CIT Girls, who took the stage for their final Girls Sing as campers. Watching them perform was both joyful and emotional. They danced with confidence and celebrated the friendships and memories that have shaped their camp journey. Their energy was contagious, and seeing them soak in every second of their final camper summer was something we’ll never forget.

We are so lucky!!