Hidden Valley Camp
and World Conditions
Dear Families,
Since September 11th, 2001, we've all felt that the world has changed in one way or another, and certainly heard this phrase applied to many aspects of our lives. And so once again this year we are particularly keen to welcome campers to a corner of the world that remains innocent and refreshing, fun and secure. Still, we must recognize national and international circumstances, and want to take this time to share our thoughts and feelings with you as we together anticipate a new summer.
Unlike most camp directors, we live at camp year-round; the preparations noted here mirror those that we have naturally followed during challenging Maine winters. Additionally, as a member of the American Camping Association, Hidden Valley is required to meet 200 or so institutional standards pertaining to staffing, safety and health, facilities, programming, etc. The camp received a series of 100% scores during its two most recent ACA visits (1999 and 2001) and the same professional care that has gone into general camp preparations forms the basis of our renewed perspective on the upcoming summer.
1. Our Area and Local Services: The Town of Montville - we use nearby Freedom's post office - contains 950 inhabitants (during the winter, that is!) over about 65 square miles. We've lived here since 1988 and possess warm relations with neighbors, town officials, etc.
Emergency services are provided by the Montville Fire Department and those in surrounding towns. Over the years, these groups have toured camp and discussed fire prevention and potential response. The County Sheriff and State Police provide law enforcement in the area; we contact them annually to inform them of the resumption of camp operations. (Their services have never been required) The county also coordinates general emergency services.
2. Camp Operations: In addition to their immediate tragic consequences, recent events provide a more subtle reminder that we may not be able to take certain things for granted. You may want to be aware that the following structures have been in place here over the years:
Energy: Our proximity to multiple power sources makes an extended power outage very unlikely. Just in case, though, the camp has two generators which support refrigeration, lights and (most importantly as our pumps require electricity) toilet flushing! Natural gas - used to heat water - comes from the county's largest supplier and there's always 2 week's worth on hand here.
Provisions: Camp's food service always has 4-5 days supply of food available and uses multiple suppliers with warehouses located instate. Water comes from 4 deep wells on camp property and is in constant supply.
Phones are serviced by a great local company which responds to problems within a few hours. There are four cell phones ready in case service is interrupted.
3. Medical Services: There are 2-3 nurses in residence along with other RN's who commute to camp and staff members who possess first aid and other emergency training. Prior to camper arrival, staff members engage in emergency drills which anticipate accidents which might occur during camp programs. The local ambulance services are notified of the resumption of camp operations each June. And of course there is a pediatrician on call and additional services available in nearby Belfast.
In the case of an event beyond the scope of normal childhood mishaps, county emergency services are available. Additionally, the ACA (as well as common sense) require that we have outside counselors, clergy etc. on call to assist camp staff and ourselves in relevant support efforts.
"Meg, thank you for extending so much time and helping us
through a most difficult time in NY.... Your warmth, values,
and philosophy comforted us." - HV Parents
4. Travel to camp is arranged with Maine Line Tours and Coach USA, bus companies with whom we have been associated for many years. Once camp is in session, we rely on staff whose licensure, training and supervision is guided by standards established by the ACA and our insurance company. Camp vehicles are new and serviced regularly. Trips operate under firm guidelines for supervision and communication with camp.
5. Communication with Home: We understand that - even though we are safe here - parents and children may desire reassuring contact with one another. As noted in other communications, we generally discourage phone calls,as they can be disruptive to childrenÕs natural process of adjustment to an independent camp routine. But when circumstances require that families touch base, the camp possesses the capacity to support such needs. (Please understand that office staff and directors will still organize phone schedules.) All things being equal, we will continue to remind families of the benefits of letters and incoming faxes and emails.
6. Finally, we know that, over the past year or so, some of our campers experienced loss or sadness to which they were unacustomed. And as parents ourselves, we have come to understand that any child may have found this to be a confusing time. Be assured that prior to camp, our counseling staff will be prepared to care for your child with these concerns in mind.
This winter, we have continually reminded ourselves how lucky we are to live in this place and pursue our labor of love here. It is our family's heartfelt pleasure to share the camp with your child this summer. We hope that he/she can be reminded of the good that comes from working and living in an unpressured yet productive setting wherein the values of peace and understanding, responsibility and love have always been and will continue to be a conscious part of daily living. We trust that this early community experience will help our children appreciate the value of meaningful relationships and support the creation of a productive civic life in their collective future.
Here's hoping that we all enjoy a safe and peaceful summer!
Take Care,
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Parents
