Camper Finds a Second Family at Camp Becket - Becket-Chimney ...

ISSUE
08
MARCH
2012
Message from
the CEO
In February I had the
opportunity to travel to Asia
and visit two of our Travel
and Service Program YMCA
partners in China and Japan.
Every year we select one
or two of our International
YMCA partners to visit. This
is an opportunity for Becket-
Chimney Corners YMCA
to ensure our cross cultural
relationships remain strong
and that our ICEP participants
experience a safe, culturally
enriching program with a
strong service component. It
is important for us to always
reiterate to our partners
that our travel program
is not tourist focused, but
community service based
and we thoroughly review
the travel plans as well as our
partnership agreements.
As you may know, we
cancelled our ICEP Japan trip
last year following the natural
disasters the country suffered
in early 2011. Although
ICEP Japan does not travel
to the area devastated by
the earthquake and tsunami,
our YMCA partner, Tochigi
YMCA, provided signifi cant
relief support to those
communities as part of their
mission. The year-off allowed
the Tochigi YMCA to focus
on their communities and be
better prepared to welcome
our travelers in 2012.
Masato Akita, CEO of the
Tochigi YMCA, our TSP
liaison Kumiko Indo along
with their Board Chair Skira
(cont’d on pg 2)
A
QUARTERLY
NEWSLETTER
Camper Finds a Second Family
at Camp Becket
Jennifer Brown admits she was
a little scared when her son
Zephanah Knightton went to
Camp Becket last summer for the
fi rst time. Knowing Zeph was still
mourning the recent loss of his
dad, Jennifer called camp regularly
to make sure he was okay.
“Where we come from is a
very different place from where
the other campers live and
that worried me,” explained
Jennifer, a resident of Springfi eld,
Massachusetts, “but I knew Zeph
would be around other young men
and that camp would get his mind
off of things at home.”
Little did Jennifer know that on the very fi rst day,
Zeph made seven new friends and by the end of his
four weeks he considered the entire cabin his
“second family.”
“I was with my family, just not my
blood family,” said Zeph, a fi fth
grader at the Homer School,
who is an avid football player
with aspirations to play for
Louisiana State
University.
Zeph Knightton
Above photo: Phil Connor meets with the staff of the National YMCA of China during his recent trip to Asia.
this issue
New Foundation for Brewster House P.2
Master Site Plan Update P.3
Adult ICEP Trip to Peru P.5
Annual Fund Update P.6
Alumni Notes P.7
Zeph is also an award winning
dancer. Hip Hop, jazz, tap, pop,
crump’n and most recently ballet
have been in Zeph’s dancing
repertoire and this past holiday
season he performed in the
Nutcracker.
It was through Zeph’s involvement
with the Albany Berkshire Ballet that
Jennifer met Chimney Corners Camp
Director Shannon Donovan-Monti,
whose daughter Bridget shared the
same dance teacher as Zeph.
“Everyone could see that Zeph was a
great kid. And his mom shared with
me that dance was an incentive to
keep his grades up. Jennifer does a
great job getting her kids involved
and she responded immediately to our offer of summer
camp,” recalled Shannon, who is excited to welcome
Zeph’s sister Zyiasia this summer to Chimney Corners.
And Zeph is already giving his younger sister some tips,
including “always carry a fl ashlight and keep your shoes
on when you walk around camp at night.” But camp
taught Zeph a few other lessons as well.
“I learned how to be a good person and camp helped
me understand that being in a family means you should
help people rather than just doing things for yourself,”
and Zeph’s experience impressed his mom.
(cont’d on pg 5)

Message from the CEO
(cont’d from cover)
Funatsu welcomed me in Japan.
They
In November
are proud
of
of
2011
our collaboration
the Alumni Council approved the creation of a host of new initiatives in these areas which the YAAG will be
and
a new
consider
volunteer
our ICEP
group
participants
to further outreach, increase Receives connection, and responsible New for including Foundation
enhanced e-communications, a revised
respectful and truly engaged in the
foster ongoing participation and support among our former campers e-newsletter, regional and special events, and giving opportunities just
cross cultural program.
and recent and current staff members. The Young Alumni Action Group for young alumni.
The Brewster House is the fi rst thing
We (YAAG) are also inaugural excited members about offering include co-chairs
campers
Allison DeLuca
and families
and
see when If you are not receiving the news you deserve as young alumni, make
ICEP Josh China Schupack, for the and fourth Dan year Baginski, and Julia Carroll,
rounding
Libby
the
Gutschenritter,
corner of YMCA sure Road. that the Offi ce of Development has your email address and
my Lucy visit Schuldt, to Shanghai Savi was Tuber fi lled and with Stuart Winchester. Every summer, the Brewster your House birth date. You can contact Director of Annual Fund & Alumni
such This graciousness. talented and Jin ambitious Wei, the group Acting will focus hosts on three bonnet areas clad of alumni Chimney Corners Relations John Anz by email at janz@bccymca.org, or complete the
General connection Secretary for our of under the National 30 crowd – Communications, campers busily Development tending to the Young herb Alumni Survey now “live” at www.bccymca.org.
Committee and Events. of Over YMCA the China course and of the Shi year young garden, alumni sewing, will notice cooking over a fi re and
Hi their TSP liaison included me in singing and playing games from the
their staff meeting as well as exposed colonial era.
me 2011 to all kinds Annual of amazing Fund cuisine. Giving Participation Climbs; Inspires Bold 2012 Goals
Although I am not sure what I ate, it What makes this camp activity so
was wonderful. The China visit also special is the rich history of the
began
The 2011
active
Annual
discussions
Fund
of
picked
Becketup
right where Brewster 2010 left House. As Dr. we Oliver close the Brewster, books on 2011, just a few more fi gures and accomplishments
Chimney off, supporting Corners our YMCA outstanding welcoming programs, providing the fi rst a physician should in Becket, be acknowledged: a surgeon
Chinese camp and youth educational so we can outdoor develop experience a true to deserving during the Revolutionary • Overall dollars War and donated a increased by more than 11 percent.
exchange youth and program. families and raising the fund-raising descendent bar yet from the Mayfl ower, built the house This winter, The Brewster House’s 225 year old
in 1786. This historical
• Overall
house
participation
is the oldest
increased by more than 15 percent – every donor was
again for 2012. The Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA
fi eldstone foundation was completely reinforced
You may have heard our interest in house in Becket, responsible MA and includes for this!
family and greater community rallied for the second
a central following several years of monitoring its
establishing straight year, an generating ICEP partnership more donors than ever stone before fi replace • and Current an ornate parents front increased door as their participation function. by Water another was 13 beginning percent. to seep into the
with (1,668) the Czech and contributed Republic. more After dollars much than ever architectural before features. A small hole in the cellar dirt cellar and stones were falling out.
• Alumni increased their participation by more than 6 percent.
review ($748,632). and discussions we decided of the house is believed to have been used as a
not to pursue a partnership at this time hide out for the • Underground Volunteers and Railroad. Staff combined to participate Steve Turner, at more Director than 95 of percent. Facilities, enlisted
Every gift – of every size – helped achieve our goals this
because the trip would not focus on
Stewart Boudreau, an area mason who was
community
past year. No
service.
one gift
We
or
are
group
committed
of donors helped “I don’t more
• And the Camp Becket Aides of 1986, in honor of their 25th Reunion, and thanks
know of any other camp that has responsible for preserving Moose Lodge’s
to
than
showing
any other
our teens
– everyone
how they
did
can
their share – every full access gift
to an anonymous “challenge”, contributed nearly $20,000 and reached the inspired
to such a beautiful space with the original chimney.
change made a lives difference!
level of 100% participation!
for good through their historic signifi cance as the Brewster House,”
good service work and despite this commented Chimney Corners Executive “Stewart is a craftsman and is committed to
decision, we are always looking to add Director Shannon-Donovan Monti.
keeping historical spaces true to their original
2012 Annual Fund: Critical needs inspire
materials and construction,” said Steve.
to everyone our list of international to play excursions a crucial role.
Did you know…
The Brewster House is one of four buildings
and welcome the opportunity to work
on Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA • Gifts property of $100 A and three less foot trench made was up dug 62% on the back of side of
with This Czech year’s Republic Annual Fund if an appropriate has set new goals for success. The 2012
identifi ed as historical facilities in the all 2010 2011 Annual the Fund Brewster donations House foundation so that Stewart
program Annual can Fund be will developed. seek to raise $765,000. Ninety-fi ve percent
Master Site Plan effort. According to Chief could by hand reposition each original stone
of these dollars are already budgeted to support fi nancial aid
•
Total dollars
On page 5 learn about our very fi rst Operating Offi cer Jim Brown, “These historic with from new $100 mortar, and new less pressure treated fl oor
(“campership”), programs, facilities and much more in the coming donations funded…
Adult ICEP trip to Peru in August. This buildings are physical artifacts that are central joists, and a reinforced rubber membrane to
year – what is required to sustain our exceptional programs for
inaugural program is an opportunity to the camps’ traditions and programs • More and than that 50% keep of the moisture new construction out of the cellar. cabins
another year. The Annual Fund will also strive
for our 21 and older alumni and parent contribute
to bring more
to their
alumni,
distinctive appearance. at each In camp, plus
parents, staff and friends to this effort than ever The Becket Historical Commission and the
community to get a taste of the ICEP addition
before
to
–
our
a “partner”
historical buildings, • 30% Becket- camperships Massachusetts and/ or fi nancial Historical aid for
goal of 2,000 donors – the goal necessary to not Commission approved
experience in a ten day trip. Led by one Chimney just sustain Corners us, but YMCA is committed 10 participants, to or
move us forward. Some will do more… more the updates to the Brewster House.
of our seasoned TSP leaders, travelers investing will do some! in our key program buildings and
will enjoy a bit of site-seeing as well signifi cant structures, like our dining
• Program
halls,
supplies for our camping and outdoor center, or
The Annual Fund volunteer effort this year will be led by Co-Chairs
While long-term upgrades for the Brewster
as Laura participate Christian in a service and Tucker project Schuldt. Their so team that of we leadership maintain the special character • The renewed of waterfront House include fl eet a of refurbished canoes and chimney and
to volunteers, experience moms, fi rst-hand dads, the and type young of alumni will our reach camps.” out like never
kayaks at both camps, fi replace, or other master site projects on the
volunteerism before, and you our teens can be value part of and this effort. Spread the word,
horizon include a new façade to the Chimney
Since 2009, Becket-Chimney Corners • Some YMCA combination of all of the above
treasure get involved, for a lifetime. tell a friend…make a difference too.
Corners Arts Center and upgrades to the Camp
has addressed two historical facilities, a No new gift is too
Join us in reaching 2,000!
Becket small Dining – believe Hall. it Look – some for are future just articles in
Amici & Agape,
foundation for the Camp Becket Library and a
the bigger Becket-Chimney than others. Corners YMCA News on
Phil Connor
complete reconstruction of Moose Lodge.
these projects.
26
BCCYMCA News Issue 08 March 2012
Historic Brewster House
Young Alumni Action Group to Reconnect the Under 30 Crowd
Brewster House

Alumni Master Site News Plan & Notes a Road Map to Future
In Memoriam
Joanna L. Hilgenberg (P) of
Belmont, MA died on June 21, 2011.
Alumni News & Notes appear regularly in editions of the Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA NEWS. Joanna is survived by her children
Facility Enhancements Q&A with Jim Brown, Chief Operating Offi cer
and grandchildren, including son
Send your news and photos by mail to John Anz, or email to janz@bccymca.org.
and Camp Becket alumnus Matthew
Jim Brown, Chief Operating Offi cer
How does Hilgenberg the YMCA’s and daughter programs and factor
Peter for Becket-Chimney Garrell (CB camper Corners ’76-’81, YMCA Aide ’82, Staff Plains, NY with my husband Carl and my two children into the master Chimney site Corner process? Camp The alumna best Sarah
‘84) worked just closely recently with contacted CEO Phil the Alumni Connor, Offi ce Brooke, 5 and Brandon, 3. Currently, I am a Vice example of Hilgenberg. supporting She our was camp predeceased programs by
writing the Board “Since of Trustees, my last summer staff and at Black camp in 1984 I President in the Legal and Compliance department came out of her the former new husband design Alan for our Hilgenberg. camper
moved River Architects 2,887 miles to from complete Rudd a Pond detailed and now live of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney. Through Morgan cabins. We Julia deliberately L. McNiven kept (P) the of layout Simsbury,
in Master Manhattan Site Plan Beach, in late CA 2010. with my Over wife Anne of 20 Stanley, I am able to continue the spirit of giving simple, and CT appropriately died on October sized, 16, 2011. so that Julia is
years, the last our year 9 year progress old son has Will been and made the family dogs – and volunteerism that I learned at Chimney Corners campers in survived our construction by a large family cabin including program
Bingo to implement and Yahtzee. the Master Many Site Becket Plan, alums will be able through many volunteer events, an active charitable could do more daughter, of the Chimney work themselves. Corners Camp
alumna and Camp Becket parent
to including appreciate the that construction I met Anne of at two my new 50th Grateful gift program, and a mentorship where I go to a local Our hope is that campers will get the entire
Lynn McNiven Centa, daughter and
Dead smaller show footprint in 1988 cabins in Long at Chimney Beach - despite my school regularly to read to a third grader. Thankfully, structure framed Chimney and Corners weather parent tight Michelle during
parents Corners telling Camp me and that Camp nothing Becket. good would ever I am able to keep up to date with Becket and Chimney the summer, McNiven leaving Karol a few and of son-in-law the details
come from those shows. After graduating from Clark
Camp Becketʼs
Corners
Pioneer
events
Village
through
features
Facebook,
the newly designed
LinkedIn
and
Jim answers a few questions on the
and the for our volunteers and Camp on Becket Work alumnus Weekends, Steven and
University additional in next Worcester, steps to put MA the in Master 1988 and law
constructed
school
Cabin
newsletter.
Crockett, an
Last
improved
May,
contrast
I was able
from
to
the
attend
original
the
cabin.
alumni nearly eliminating Karol, and the son need and for Camp contractors. Becket
in Site 1991, Plan Anne into and action I decided and how to it go will west. Ultimately and parent event in New York City, where I connected Over time, alumnus construction Wooda cabin McNiven. campers She is will
this became our permanent home. I feel very with old friends. I love the culture of Becket and
also survived by eight grandchildren,
advance YMCA programs and their sustainability into the future.
be able to come back to see the cabin that they built.
including Becket alumni Christopher
fortunate that we live where we do. Not only do we Chimney Corners. I look forward to getting back to
The Master Site Plan was updated in 2010. Why did this process In what way will the Master Site Plan Centa, preserve Matthew our Centa natural and Ryan
have great friends and a sense of community where the camps with the kids very soon!”
take place and how is it used to determine capital updates? We environment as well as our 108 year old Centa, traditions and Chimney and Corners history?
we live, professionally I have been provided with
wanted to set a vision for our facilities that focused on preserving
opportunities that I am sure I could not have found Andy LeStage the (CB camper In looking ’81-’84, through ICEP some ’85, Aide of our archival
alumnae
photos,
Chelsea
I realized
Karol,
that
Jacqueline
Karol and Julia Karol. She was
special rustic character of our camps, while at the same
anywhere else. I am a partner with the Liner Grode, ’86, time Staff supporting ’91, Parent ’09-‘11) our facilities wrote and in “the buildings LeStages were gradually moving away from our
predeceased by her husband Richard
our core summer programs and growth in the Berkshire
et. al. Law Firm in Westwood, right next to UCLA returned Outdoor to Center. Becket-Chimney tradition Corners of rustic for buildings Alumni tucked away H. in McNiven. the woods. The details
As part of the process, we committed to keeping all of our
where I have been for the past 13 years. I have some Weekend camper in the fall. The in our headline buildings for the were weekend getting lost, and small trails that used to be
John F.X. Keator (P) of Washington,
cabins as seasonal structures without running water or electricity.
terrifi c and loyal colleagues and clients who have was a gathering of the walking 1986 Becket paths Aides, for campers most of were turning
MA
into
died
roads.
on October
In addition
22, 2011.
to the
John
For the Berkshire Outdoor Center we are focusing on keeping
also become friends which makes the daily grind of whom were all the able to return improvement to celebrate to their buildings, 25-year the Master Site is survived Plan is by focused his wife on and limiting former
winterized buildings, including our four lodges along the
work even more fulfi lling. Last spring we had the Reunion, main entrance and the time the spent amount together of vehicle was an traffi awesome c going into staff the camp, member and Georgette also preserving Keator, and
leading to the new Chimney Corners Dining Hall, and keeping
Becket-Chimney Corners west coast alumni event rekindling the of old friendships the wooded and affi nature rmation in our of cabin the areas. As daughters part of and the Chimney planning Corners process
summer camper cabins on the backside of the site near Smith Camp alumnae Alex and Cassidy.
in my offi ce with a fairly nice turnout. If anyone Becket Pond. Way. Fortunately, for the building LeStages new have camper been cabins, we surveyed all of the trees that were
fi nds themselves in Southern California feel free no strangers to camp lately. This summer Libby, 11, Francis C. Mason Jr. (P) of
What are the greatest facility improvements the Camps and
eight inches in diameter or larger, and will make a concerted effort to
to stop by. Of particular recent interest to me was was a Chimney Corners Junior Unit camper for the
Norwood, MA died on December
Berkshire Outdoor Center must address and why? Programs
place cabins without losing mature trees.
25, 2011. John is survived by a large
an and elementary staff have school the greatest that we impact are looking on a camper into for or guest’s third experience, year, and Charlie, How 9, jumped will we in fund with these both feet necessary capital family improvements? including his wife Large Jackie, six
Will however, that has all a of listing our alumni of their remember “core values” the special on its character as a of fi rst-year our site. Iroquois capital camper. projects Maria has will embraced be funded through children future and fund-raising eight grandchildren. efforts;
website. Whether These it is time core spent values on are the similar porch of to the The Camp Mottos Becket camping Library, as or an enthusiastic however, member I am of excited the Chimney about the opportunity All six of to his immediately children are invest Becketon
a visit the Becket to the Chimney Dining Hall Corners wall. Barn The similarities to locate a cabin sign Corners — we Moms’ have Committee, in preventative and is a hardy maintenance survivor through funds Chimney produced Corners from alumni a – larger Alicia
that some the special school facilities has with that Becket defi ne are the striking character and of we our camps. of past Out Moms’ of Weekend endowment. tent-bound I rainstorms. could see a work crew replanting Mason Bjornson, native John trees, F. Mason, or a
would very much like Will to get in so that he can Andy loved returning to camp this summer for Dads’ Carolyn Mason Wholley, Michael
our 145 buildings, the Master Site plan identifi ed twenty-six structures volunteer construction crew repairing the trim on a program building,
J. Mason, Francis C. Mason III, and
experience, that were either among historical, other things, located an in areas that are signifi Weekend, cant to the 30 years after and his an fi fi increased rst summer supply in Pioneer, budget for our Katherine Work Weekends. Mason Hummel.
environment environment image of camp, with or some some signifi of of cant the the to same same our programs. Investing at a higher and was thrilled to be with Charlie
values that I learned so long ago
when
Go
he
on
caught
to bccymca.org
the elusive
under “About Us” Kenneth to download Nash (P) a of summary Pittsfi eld,
level in these H.I.S. (Historical, Image, Signature) buildings is critical to
MA died on Jan. 1, 2012. Ken, a
and preserving still refl the ect on special to this character day. Then of our camps.
Becket
of the
bass.”
Master Site Plan.
former Dads’ Committee member,
again, Will could just become a
is survived by his wife Suzanne, his
Heidi Kinner Soltysiak (CCC
Becket camper which is a subject
three sons and Camp Becket alumni
camper ’94-’96, ICEP ’97, Aide ’98,
being discussed right now as well. Berkshire Outdoor Center Presents Seth Nash, Mitchell Nash and A.
AC/CIT ’99, Staff ’00-’07) wrote
Maybe I will fi nd myself at a Dads’
Leo Nash, grandchildren and Becket
in “I wanted to share my news that and Chimney Corners alumni Dylan,
Weekend again soon enough.” Memorial Day I was Family married on July 9, 2011 to Camp Jake, Chloe and Martine, and current
Monique Robenson Jean (CCC
Paul Soltysiak (Staff ’04-’07). We day camper Lucy.
camper ’90-’93, TLS ’94) Friday, May 25 – Monday, met during the 2004 May camp season. 28, I 2012 (A) Alumni, (P) Parent, (F) Friend
writes “I spent many wonderful
have also included a picture of us on
If you know or hear of the passing
summers Kick at Chimney start your Corners summer Camp, and in made made the Berkshires at Becket-Chimney our wedding day. Corners It was great YMCA. to have One all-inclusive of a member of the price Becket-Chimney of
many great friends when I was there. Now I sing Christine Provost (CCC camper ’99-’00, Aide ’01,
$175 per person (kids under 5 FREE) offers you a long weekend fi lled with fun activities Corners including YMCA family, boating, please
camp songs to my two children. I look forward AC/CIT ’02, Staff ’03 -’05) and Shannon Donovan- contact John Anz in the Development
arts and crafts, nature hikes, campfi
to the day when they join the Becket-Chimney Monti (CCC res, Alpine Executive Tower Director) climbing as the two and members delicious meals like a
Offi ce so that we can be aware, and
Corners YMCA family as campers themselves! After beach of the barbecue camp community and much that were more able …to
attend our so others may learn of the news in a
graduating Lodging law will school be at in Chimney 2006, I moved Corners to Camp’s White winterized wedding lodging. in Northampton, For more MA. information log onto bccymca.org timely or fashion call (413) through 623-8991.
this section in
future issues. Thank you.
Heidi & Paul
73

4
In 1975 Lynn (Draper) Hover
came to Chimney Corners Camp
for the fi rst time. She admits
she was a bit of a “geeky kid”
and camp was a special retreat
from real life and a chance to
redefi ne herself away from home.
Thirty-seven years later with a
long resumé fi lled with many
Chimney Corners roles, this
Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA
Registrar and Offi ce Manager is
leaving camp for a new role.
“It is bittersweet,” says Lynn, who is leaving later this month to
become offi ce manager for the family business, Draper Knitting in
Canton, MA. As much as she is excited for her new challenge and
the chance to work alongside her family, Becket-Chimney Corners
YMCA will always be a source of great passion and love.
Her greatest passion has been the hundreds of relationships she has
made through the years, particularly with the families she has advised
and counseled through the fi nancial aid process.
BCCYMCA News Issue 08 March 2012
Camp Registrar to Leave YMCA for New Position
Lynn Hover
New Senior Program
Director Joins Chimney
Corners Camp
Growing up, Berta Sinclair was always the athlete.
Softball, soccer, and skiing were a staple in her life,
but when she went away to a YMCA camp in her home
state of New Hampshire she was able to have choices
and experiences that made her well-rounded.
“Camp was where I found other talents and interests
and I discovered that it was okay to try new things and
enjoy them, even if I wasn’t the best at doing those
activities.”
Berta still has her pet rock she made her fi rst summer at
camp. And those camp summers sparked her interest in
working with kids and choosing a career in camping.
Berta is the new Chimney Corners Camp Senior Program Director,
joining Executive Director Shannon Donovan-Monti. She is
responsible for supervising the program staff, organizing campers
into their activities, developing programs and helping plan all-camp
activities like campfi res, talent shows, camper banquets and
big games.
Berta earned a Bachelor of Science degree in kinesiology from the
University of New Hampshire and is excited to enhance Chimney’s
athletics and adventure programs.
Berta Sinclair
“I was a campership camper so when I became the Registrar I knew
I had an opportunity to introduce families to the gift of camp. I have
enjoyed seeing fi rst-hand how camp can change a child’s life and
improve a family’s dynamic.”
Lynn has been a major part in the increased professionalism and
improved effi ciency in the camp enrollment process, and she is
pleased to see that her replacement will be two registrars, one
designated for Camp Becket and one for Chimney Corners Camp.
These registrars will work in the main administration building
during the off season and then move into the camp offi ces for the
summer months.
“I think it’s great that the new registrars will be located at each of
the camps because their job is to build relationships and they can
continue those relationships with campers and families throughout
the summer.”
However, there is no question that Lynn’s expertise and experience
will be missed by families and staff alike.
“Lynn has been the anchor in the offi ce and holds a great deal of
knowledge about the Camps. She also has a great ability to provide
calm reassurance to anxious parents, many who are sending their
children away for the fi rst time. Her friendly personality and attention
to detail will be missed as she embarks on this new adventure,”
commented CEO Phil Connor.
Although her new career will take her to eastern Massachusetts,
Lynn will continue to stay involved with Becket-Chimney Corners
YMCA as a member of the Alumni Council and an avid Work
Weekend volunteer.
Having worked as a YMCA camping
professional for six years – including Youth and
Camp Director for the MetroWest YMCA in
Massachusetts and Centennial Coordinator at
YMCA Camp Coniston in New Hampshire —
Berta was attracted to Becket-Chimney Corners
YMCA because of its strong reputation.
“The Camps are well known among YMCA
circles for offering highly regarded programs.
I am excited to be a part of such a fantastic
operation and I look forward to continuing the
great work that has been done in recent years.”
Berta is referring to the early full enrollment for
summer 2012, the solid staff retention rates of over 80% and great
performance evaluations from campers and staff.
“I really believe in the importance of the four week camp experience.
And I am excited that the month long program will allow me to get to
know our camper population and their parents better.”
For now, Berta is already engrossed in summer planning, interviewing
program staff, accelerating her learning curve and seeing how she can
make a positive impact at Chimney Corners Camp.

Adult Travel Programs: Inaugural Trip to Peru
DATES August 19th – August 30th, 2012 COST $3,500 per person
REGISTER Visit bccymca.org to learn more.
Travel with BCCYMCA on our premier Adult Program to
Peru and experience more than an average tourist trip. Revive
old connections with camp alumni and families and forge new
friendships with Peruvian YMCA community members. Led by
three time TSP trip leader and New Zealand program partner
Lee Vaughan, participants will spend their days doing service
work in the community and visiting Peru’s unique cultural
sites. Visit a YMCA funded orphanage and get your hands dirty
building a much needed medical facility in a Lima suburb. At
night join a Peruvian cooking class, learn to salsa dance or enjoy
a dinner out in Cusco or Lima. Participants will come home
with an increased sense of community among fellow travelers
and our international partners, as well as a greater understanding
of the service work our teens complete each summer.
Camper Finds a Second Family at Becket (cont’d from front cover)
“Zeph talked a lot about camp when
he returned home. They really do
teach the kids how to be respectful to
one another and I was impressed with
how friendly and kind everyone was.”
Brian Sobel, Iroquois Village Director,
was one staff member Jennifer said
went out of his way to befriend Zeph
during his Camp Becket stay. Brian,
a competitive All-American gymnast
and diver lived two blocks from Zeph’s
home while a student at Springfi eld
College, and also shared his passion for
dance and performing.
“Watching Zeph dance was like watching a 25 yearold
Broadway star in a ten year-old body. He stole the
show at Saratoga South,” marveled Brian who valued
his conversations with Zeph throughout the summer.
Zeph Knightton
Lee Vaughan
TRIP LEADER
Lee Vaughan served as
the ICEP New Zealand
Program Host from 2007-
2009 and has since led
three TSP programs for
BCCYMCA. He currently
works for the Berkshire
Outdoor Center.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Build medical facilities in
Independencia and visit a local
orphanage
• Take an excursion to Cusco and
Machu Picchu
• Learn to salsa dance and take a
cooking class at the Lima YMCA
• Tour the historical centers of
Cusco and Lima
“I think Zeph initially felt the other
kids didn’t understand who he was and
where he came from so we talked a lot
about empathy and how it works on
both sides of a friendship.”
“We also talked about how his passion
for dancing transcends cultures and
ethnicity and brings together different
people in a moving and bonding way.
But mostly I just listened to Zeph.”
Ultimately, Brian wanted Zeph to see
Camp Becket as a safe place where
people really care so he could focus on
having a great summer.
It looks like Zeph had a great time as he plans to return
to Camp Becket this summer so he can make more
friends and improve his swimming and maybe wow the
crowds at Saratoga South again.
A
QUARTERLY
NEWSLETTER
The mission of Becket-Chimney
Corners YMCA is to put
Judeo-Christian principles in to
practice through programs that
build healthy spirit, mind,
and body for all.
Issue 08
March 2012
Phil Connor
Chief Executive Offi cer
Jim Brown
Chief Operating Offi cer and
Travel Service Program Director
Christine Kalakay
Chief Financial Offi cer
Brenda Marsian, CFRE
Chief Development Offi cer
Chris Burke
Executive Director
Camp Becket
Shannon Donovan-Monti
Executive Director
Chimney Corners Camp
Steve Hamill
Executive Director
Berkshire Outdoor Center
John Anz
Director of the Annual Fund and
Alumni Relations
Jack Sharry
Board of Trustee Chair
D. Scott Taylor
Alumni Council President
Lee Martin
Dads’ Executive Committee
President
Susan Beringer
Moms’ Executive Committee
President
Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA
News is published by the Offi ce of
Development at Becket-Chimney
Corners YMCA. Questions and
inquiries may be forwarded to
Brenda Marsian at bmarsian@
bccymca.org. Help us go green by
sending us your e-mail to receive
notifi cations of future issues on our
website. Read this issue and others
at www.bccymca.org and click on
our News and Publications page.
5

Message from the CEO
(cont’d from cover)
Funatsu welcomed me in Japan.
They
In November
are proud
of
of
2011
our collaboration
the Alumni Council approved the creation of a host of new initiatives in these areas which the YAAG will be
and
a new
consider
volunteer
our ICEP
group
participants
to further outreach, increase Receives connection, and responsible New for including Foundation
enhanced e-communications, a revised
respectful and truly engaged in the
foster ongoing participation and support among our former campers e-newsletter, regional and special events, and giving opportunities just
cross cultural program.
and recent and current staff members. The Young Alumni Action Group for young alumni.
The Brewster House is the fi rst thing
We (YAAG) are also inaugural excited members about offering include co-chairs
campers
Allison DeLuca
and families
and
see when If you are not receiving the news you deserve as young alumni, make
ICEP Josh China Schupack, for the and fourth Dan year Baginski, and Julia Carroll,
rounding
Libby
the
Gutschenritter,
corner of YMCA sure Road. that the Offi ce of Development has your email address and
my Lucy visit Schuldt, to Shanghai Savi was Tuber fi lled and with Stuart Winchester. Every summer, the Brewster your House birth date. You can contact Director of Annual Fund & Alumni
such This graciousness. talented and Jin ambitious Wei, the group Acting will focus hosts on three bonnet areas clad of alumni Chimney Corners Relations John Anz by email at janz@bccymca.org, or complete the
General connection Secretary for our of under the National 30 crowd – Communications, campers busily Development tending to the Young herb Alumni Survey now “live” at www.bccymca.org.
Committee and Events. of Over YMCA the China course and of the Shi year young garden, alumni sewing, will notice cooking over a fi re and
Hi their TSP liaison included me in singing and playing games from the
their staff meeting as well as exposed colonial era.
me 2011 to all kinds Annual of amazing Fund cuisine. Giving Participation Climbs; Inspires Bold 2012 Goals
Although I am not sure what I ate, it What makes this camp activity so
was wonderful. The China visit also special is the rich history of the
began
The 2011
active
Annual
discussions
Fund
of
picked
Becketup
right where Brewster 2010 left House. As Dr. we Oliver close the Brewster, books on 2011, just a few more fi gures and accomplishments
Chimney off, supporting Corners our YMCA outstanding welcoming programs, providing the fi rst a physician should in Becket, be acknowledged: a surgeon
Chinese camp and youth educational so we can outdoor develop experience a true to deserving during the Revolutionary • Overall dollars War and donated a increased by more than 11 percent.
exchange youth and program. families and raising the fund-raising descendent bar yet from the Mayfl ower, built the house This winter, The Brewster House’s 225 year old
in 1786. This historical
• Overall
house
participation
is the oldest
increased by more than 15 percent – every donor was
again for 2012. The Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA
fi eldstone foundation was completely reinforced
You may have heard our interest in house in Becket, responsible MA and includes for this!
family and greater community rallied for the second
a central following several years of monitoring its
establishing straight year, an generating ICEP partnership more donors than ever stone before fi replace • and Current an ornate parents front increased door as their participation function. by Water another was 13 beginning percent. to seep into the
with (1,668) the Czech and contributed Republic. more After dollars much than ever architectural before features. A small hole in the cellar dirt cellar and stones were falling out.
• Alumni increased their participation by more than 6 percent.
review ($748,632). and discussions we decided of the house is believed to have been used as a
not to pursue a partnership at this time hide out for the • Underground Volunteers and Railroad. Staff combined to participate Steve Turner, at more Director than 95 of percent. Facilities, enlisted
Every gift – of every size – helped achieve our goals this
because the trip would not focus on
Stewart Boudreau, an area mason who was
community
past year. No
service.
one gift
We
or
are
group
committed
of donors helped “I don’t more
• And the Camp Becket Aides of 1986, in honor of their 25th Reunion, and thanks
know of any other camp that has responsible for preserving Moose Lodge’s
to
than
showing
any other
our teens
– everyone
how they
did
can
their share – every full access gift
to an anonymous “challenge”, contributed nearly $20,000 and reached the inspired
to such a beautiful space with the original chimney.
change made a lives difference!
level of 100% participation!
for good through their historic signifi cance as the Brewster House,”
good service work and despite this commented Chimney Corners Executive “Stewart is a craftsman and is committed to
decision, we are always looking to add Director Shannon-Donovan Monti.
keeping historical spaces true to their original
2012 Annual Fund: Critical needs inspire
materials and construction,” said Steve.
to everyone our list of international to play excursions a crucial role.
Did you know…
The Brewster House is one of four buildings
and welcome the opportunity to work
on Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA • Gifts property of $100 A and three less foot trench made was up dug 62% on the back of side of
with This Czech year’s Republic Annual Fund if an appropriate has set new goals for success. The 2012
identifi ed as historical facilities in the all 2010 2011 Annual the Fund Brewster donations House foundation so that Stewart
program Annual can Fund be will developed. seek to raise $765,000. Ninety-fi ve percent
Master Site Plan effort. According to Chief could by hand reposition each original stone
of these dollars are already budgeted to support fi nancial aid
•
Total dollars
On page 5 learn about our very fi rst Operating Offi cer Jim Brown, “These historic with from new $100 mortar, and new less pressure treated fl oor
(“campership”), programs, facilities and much more in the coming donations funded…
Adult ICEP trip to Peru in August. This buildings are physical artifacts that are central joists, and a reinforced rubber membrane to
year – what is required to sustain our exceptional programs for
inaugural program is an opportunity to the camps’ traditions and programs • More and than that 50% keep of the moisture new construction out of the cellar. cabins
another year. The Annual Fund will also strive
for our 21 and older alumni and parent contribute
to bring more
to their
alumni,
distinctive appearance. at each In camp, plus
parents, staff and friends to this effort than ever The Becket Historical Commission and the
community to get a taste of the ICEP addition
before
to
–
our
a “partner”
historical buildings, • 30% Becket- camperships Massachusetts and/ or fi nancial Historical aid for
goal of 2,000 donors – the goal necessary to not Commission approved
experience in a ten day trip. Led by one Chimney just sustain Corners us, but YMCA is committed 10 participants, to or
move us forward. Some will do more… more the updates to the Brewster House.
of our seasoned TSP leaders, travelers investing will do some! in our key program buildings and
will enjoy a bit of site-seeing as well signifi cant structures, like our dining
• Program
halls,
supplies for our camping and outdoor center, or
The Annual Fund volunteer effort this year will be led by Co-Chairs
While long-term upgrades for the Brewster
as Laura participate Christian in a service and Tucker project Schuldt. Their so team that of we leadership maintain the special character • The renewed of waterfront House include fl eet a of refurbished canoes and chimney and
to volunteers, experience moms, fi rst-hand dads, the and type young of alumni will our reach camps.” out like never
kayaks at both camps, fi replace, or other master site projects on the
volunteerism before, and you our teens can be value part of and this effort. Spread the word,
horizon include a new façade to the Chimney
Since 2009, Becket-Chimney Corners • Some YMCA combination of all of the above
treasure get involved, for a lifetime. tell a friend…make a difference too.
Corners Arts Center and upgrades to the Camp
has addressed two historical facilities, a No new gift is too
Join us in reaching 2,000!
Becket small Dining – believe Hall. it Look – some for are future just articles in
Amici & Agape,
foundation for the Camp Becket Library and a
the bigger Becket-Chimney than others. Corners YMCA News on
Phil Connor
complete reconstruction of Moose Lodge.
these projects.
26
BCCYMCA News Issue 08 March 2012
Historic Brewster House
Young Alumni Action Group to Reconnect the Under 30 Crowd
Brewster House

Alumni News & Notes
Alumni News & Notes appear regularly in editions of the Becket-Chimney Corners YMCA NEWS.
Send your news and photos by mail to John Anz, or email to janz@bccymca.org.
Peter Garrell (CB camper ’76-’81, Aide ’82, Staff
‘84) just recently contacted the Alumni Offi ce
writing “Since my last summer at camp in 1984 I
moved 2,887 miles from Rudd Pond and now live
in Manhattan Beach, CA with my wife Anne of 20
years, our 9 year old son Will and the family dogs –
Bingo and Yahtzee. Many Becket alums will be able
to appreciate that I met Anne at my 50th Grateful
Dead show in 1988 in Long Beach - despite my
parents telling me that nothing good would ever
come from those shows. After graduating from Clark
University in Worcester, MA in 1988 and law school
in 1991, Anne and I decided to go west. Ultimately
this became our permanent home. I feel very
fortunate that we live where we do. Not only do we
have great friends and a sense of community where
we live, professionally I have been provided with
opportunities that I am sure I could not have found
anywhere else. I am a partner with the Liner Grode,
et. al. Law Firm in Westwood, right next to UCLA
where I have been for the past 13 years. I have some
terrifi c and loyal colleagues and clients who have
also become friends which makes the daily grind of
work even more fulfi lling. Last spring we had the
Becket-Chimney Corners west coast alumni event
in my offi ce with a fairly nice turnout. If anyone
fi nds themselves in Southern California feel free
to stop by. Of particular recent interest to me was
an elementary school that we are looking into for
Will that has a listing of their “core values” on its
website. These core values are similar to The Mottos
on the Becket Dining Hall wall. The similarities
that the school has with Becket are striking and we
would very much like Will to get in so that he can
experience, among other things, an
environment environment with some some of of the the same same
values that I learned so long ago
and still refl ect on to this day. Then
again, Will could just become a
Becket camper which is a subject
being discussed right now as well.
Maybe I will fi nd myself at a Dads’
Weekend again soon enough.”
Heidi & Paul
Monique Robenson Jean (CCC
camper ’90-’93, TLS ’94)
writes “I spent many wonderful
summers at Chimney Corners Camp, and made made
many great friends when I was there. Now I sing
camp songs to my two children. I look forward
to the day when they join the Becket-Chimney
Corners YMCA family as campers themselves! After
graduating law school in 2006, I moved to White
Plains, NY with my husband Carl and my two children
Brooke, 5 and Brandon, 3. Currently, I am a Vice
President in the Legal and Compliance department
of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney. Through Morgan
Stanley, I am able to continue the spirit of giving
and volunteerism that I learned at Chimney Corners
through many volunteer events, an active charitable
gift program, and a mentorship where I go to a local
school regularly to read to a third grader. Thankfully,
I am able to keep up to date with Becket and Chimney
Corners events through Facebook, LinkedIn and the
newsletter. Last May, I was able to attend the alumni
and parent event in New York City, where I connected
with old friends. I love the culture of Becket and
Chimney Corners. I look forward to getting back to
the camps with the kids very soon!”
Andy LeStage (CB camper ’81-’84, ICEP ’85, Aide
’86, Staff ’91, Parent ’09-‘11) wrote in “the LeStages
returned to Becket-Chimney Corners for Alumni
Weekend in the fall. The headline for the weekend
was a gathering of the 1986 Becket Aides, most of
whom were able to return to celebrate their 25-year
Reunion, and the time spent together was an awesome
rekindling of old friendships and affi rmation of the
Becket Way. Fortunately, the LeStages have been
no strangers to camp lately. This summer Libby, 11,
was a Chimney Corners Junior Unit camper for the
third year, and Charlie, 9, jumped in with both feet
as a fi rst-year Iroquois camper. Maria has embraced
camping as an enthusiastic member of the Chimney
Corners Moms’ Committee, and is a hardy survivor
of past Moms’ Weekend tent-bound rainstorms.
Andy loved returning to camp this summer for Dads’
Weekend, 30 years after his fi fi rst summer in Pioneer,
and was thrilled to be with Charlie
when he caught the elusive
Becket bass.”
Heidi Kinner Soltysiak (CCC
camper ’94-’96, ICEP ’97, Aide ’98,
AC/CIT ’99, Staff ’00-’07) wrote
in “I wanted to share my news that
I was married on July 9, 2011 to
Paul Soltysiak (Staff ’04-’07). We
met during the 2004 camp season. I
have also included a picture of us on
our wedding day. It was great to have
Christine Provost (CCC camper ’99-’00, Aide ’01,
AC/CIT ’02, Staff ’03 -’05) and Shannon Donovan-
Monti (CCC Executive Director) as the two members
of the camp community that were able to attend our
wedding in Northampton, MA.
In Memoriam
Joanna L. Hilgenberg (P) of
Belmont, MA died on June 21, 2011.
Joanna is survived by her children
and grandchildren, including son
and Camp Becket alumnus Matthew
Hilgenberg and daughter and
Chimney Corner Camp alumna Sarah
Hilgenberg. She was predeceased by
her former husband Alan Hilgenberg.
Julia L. McNiven (P) of Simsbury,
CT died on October 16, 2011. Julia is
survived by a large family including
daughter, Chimney Corners Camp
alumna and Camp Becket parent
Lynn McNiven Centa, daughter and
Chimney Corners parent Michelle
McNiven Karol and son-in-law
and Camp Becket alumnus Steven
Karol, and son and Camp Becket
alumnus Wooda McNiven. She is
also survived by eight grandchildren,
including Becket alumni Christopher
Centa, Matthew Centa and Ryan
Centa, and Chimney Corners
alumnae Chelsea Karol, Jacqueline
Karol and Julia Karol. She was
predeceased by her husband Richard
H. McNiven.
John F.X. Keator (P) of Washington,
MA died on October 22, 2011. John
is survived by his wife and former
staff member Georgette Keator, and
daughters and Chimney Corners
Camp alumnae Alex and Cassidy.
Francis C. Mason Jr. (P) of
Norwood, MA died on December
25, 2011. John is survived by a large
family including his wife Jackie, six
children and eight grandchildren.
All six of his children are Becket-
Chimney Corners alumni – Alicia
Mason Bjornson, John F. Mason,
Carolyn Mason Wholley, Michael
J. Mason, Francis C. Mason III, and
Katherine Mason Hummel.
Kenneth Nash (P) of Pittsfi eld,
MA died on Jan. 1, 2012. Ken, a
former Dads’ Committee member,
is survived by his wife Suzanne, his
three sons and Camp Becket alumni
Seth Nash, Mitchell Nash and A.
Leo Nash, grandchildren and Becket
and Chimney Corners alumni Dylan,
Jake, Chloe and Martine, and current
day camper Lucy.
(A) Alumni, (P) Parent, (F) Friend
If you know or hear of the passing
of a member of the Becket-Chimney
Corners YMCA family, please
contact John Anz in the Development
Offi ce so that we can be aware, and
so others may learn of the news in a
timely fashion through this section in
future issues. Thank you.
7

Tell your
Becket-Chimney
Corners YMCA Story
at bccymca.org.
Access the survey in
“What’s New: on the
Home Page or under
Alumni.”
UPCOMING EVENTS
Mon, April 2 Dinner at Mory’s (Yale University)
Wed, April 4 Boston Friends of Camp Alumni and Parent Reception
Sat, April 21 & Sun, April 22 Board of Trustee Meeting
Sat, April 28 Camp Open House at Camp Becket and Chimney Corners Camp
Fri, April 27 – Sun, April 28
Spring Work Weekend
Sat, May 12 Fairfi eld County Friends of Camp Alumni and Parent Reception
Sat, June 16 Camp Open House at Camp Becket and Chimney Corners Camp
Sun, June 24 First Session Begins
Fri, July 13 – Sun, July 15 First Session Moms’ and Dads’ Weekend
Sun, July 22 Second Session Begins
Fri, August 10 – Sun, August 12 Second Session Moms’ and Dads’ Weekend
For updates, changes, and a full list of all alumni, parent and camp
information events please go to the EVENTS page at www.bccymca.org.
www.bccymca.org | info@bccymca.org
748 Hamilton Road, Becket, MA 01223
Ph. 413.623.8991 Fax 413.623.5890
Two State YMCA
“Changing Lives for Good” BCCYMCA News Issue 08 March 2012