Chanco Executive Director's Position Eliminated
Just heard this news and I thought that everyone should be aware of it. The Chanco Executive Board has eliminated the Executive Director's position citing budgetary issues. So this means that Boomer Somers is no longer working for Chanco.
Much of the progress that camp has been able to make this year -- increased enrollment, beginning of a capitol campaign, an overall boost in enthiasm -- is attributable to Boomer. And it disheartens me that the board has managed to get rid of two of my friends in the past year, but somehow the question of Chanco's solvency still remains.
I'm not sure about the politics of all this, but to me it seems that the way to keep Camp Chanco solvent might not be to have no one in charge. But that's just my opinion, I'm sure the Chanco Board has the hard numbers to justify this. I could go on, but I'll just leave it at that for now. Responses and opinions are welcome in the comments.
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For the spirit of Chanco will be yours forever...
For the last few days I have wanted to say something here but didn't know what. I was hurt by what my fellow alumni had to say about their lack of support of Chanco now that Boomers position has been eliminated. It is shocking to learn that the same people that post blogs and comments about all the wonderful memories they hold from their days at Chanco, are the same people who now hold such disdain for the very same place. It cut me to the core to read that people are pulling their support from the camp just because our friend is not in charge anymore. The truth is, no matter who is at the helm, Chanco is nothing without US. Without US, Chanco is just a few acres on the James River in Surry, VA. Without US, Chanco has not life. Without US, Chanco does not survive. We are the ones that breathe life and give spirit to the camp.
The sum of us are greater than our parts. But it goes both ways. We can either do nothing as a whole and see Chanco crumble, or we can rally together and make this camp better than it has ever been. Chanco's 40th anniversary is this year. This is a time to celebrate, not deviate. The Camp Director has a great passion for Camp Chanco and everything it stands for. I worked with him for a few summers and know that the spirit of Chanco runs deep in his veins. He lives and breathes Chanco and I have faith that he will provide an amazing summer experience for the children who attend camp this year.
I, personally, am going to help out in any way that I can. I plan to get my EYC group together for a "grunt day" one Saturday in the spring. I will be pledging my financial support as much as I can. As a Chanco Rep for my church, I talk every Sunday about how Chanco changed my life and how Chanco helped me to become the adult that I am today. I have always said that Chanco was my favorite place in the world. That is the one place that never ceases to show me God in all His glory.
Boomer did the hardest part. He got the ball rolling with all of us at the reunion. It is now up to us to keep that ball rolling. Now we are hundreds strong and we need to use that in Chanco's favor. We need to pull together in this time of hardship and support the camp with all our might. Never, ever forget what this camp did for you (because it did do something for all of us) and help pass that along to the next generations. I think the Chanco song says it all:
Chanco is sunshine with magical forest,
The trees are magic and the skies are blue.
Chanco is campfires, and laughter and singing,
Chanco is friendship and Chanco is You.
Chanco is loving and Chanco is caring,
Chanco is counselors and campers too.
Chanco is sailing, and caving and BIKE TRIPS,
Chanco is ferry boats and Chanco is you.
You’ll always have sunshine and always the blue skies,
Always the laughter and the singing too.
For the Spirit of Chanco will be yours forever;
For the Spirit of Chanco is the sunshine in You.
Melissa Raybourn Thomas
The Future of Chanco
I have been reading and watching the website for the past several weeks.
Although I am saddend at the loss of Boomer, and the Executive Director position, I feel that the decision has been made. We, as alumni, do not get to change this decision, nor do we have any impact on it. I thought long and hard about adding my two cents to this, but I feel as though many things are being said, and the problem is getting worse, instead of better. It literally sickens me to read some of the blogs that I have been reading about how we should all pull out, not send our kids, and not support the one place that made most of us the people we are today.
Personally, I feel that camp was finally headed in the right direction. We have rallied the support of the troops (all our alumni, staff, and friends) and we had set out to make a difference. We had a reunion weekend, we have started raising money, and we have begun an outreach program with local churches. We are getting the word out there that we aren't willing to let camp cave in and just go under.
Regardless of the circumstances, I would hate to see that support wain because of the decision that has been made. I know that Chanco is a huge part of me and all that I am. I also see this reflected in the blogs, posts, and comments that I read on here. We all love camp, and do not want it to cease existance. I will pledge my $100.00 for the year, and any other extra time or money that we might have, and intend on standing behind the decisions that have been made. (like them or not) We do not leave our country because we dont agree with the President that has been selected and we shouldnt abandon our camp because our friend was let go. And it is just that- abandoning camp. If we all take our kids out, withdraw our funding and support, and discontinue our efforts, then we are abandoning Chanco. I, even if I am alone, am just not willing to do that.
I support camp, and although I did like Boomer, and the changes that happened, I also know that - Just as Old Charlie said year after year- without us-- All of Us- Chanco is just a bunch of sticks in the woods. It takes the concerted effort of all of us, through good times and bad, (for better or for worse, as the case may be) in order to make sure that Chanco means as much to our children as it does to us.
I feel that the new camp director also needs our support and encouragement. He did not choose the position he is in, he was not the one who let Boomer go, but he did accept the position because of his love for the camp, and we shoudlnt turn our backs on him, or the camp at a time like this.
Again, this is just my two cents, and amounts to just that, but I was hoping to add another perspective to the ones that have been posted here. I hope that I am not the only one who is feeling this way.
Six Degrees of Separation/ Chanco Alumni and Pledges
I agree with Phillip Bond's pledge formula of 400 alumni $100 average per pledge - some more some less.
I have shared this theory of connection the past few years with friends.
It is hardly an original theory but maybe not yet realized so I will explain.
Everyone who went to Camp is probably still in touch with at least 1 or 2 people from Chanco and those 1 or 2 people are in touch with 1 or 2 separate people. Those numbers maybe more.
I don't know if the Alumni Association is working on a database yet. I understand the sock has to go on the foot before the shoe and so on. I can probably put my theory to use and contact 20 or so alumni. I think 6-7 years ago I was in touch with only 3 alum and now I can probably reach out to 30-40.
It takes a little work but some of the people who have logged on to this site found out about it through me contacting them.
Not everyone will respond the same way - I know there are some alum who don't share the same sentiment about Chanco that others do. That is something we can measure as the search for alum continues, however there are those who if found will probably respond in a positive manner.
I will leave my cell number below if you need to contact me
I am in between emails but the armyofpalmetto@aol.com
address will always work in perpetuity.
regards
Anthony M. Cox
Order of Chanco 1984
864-444-3720
5 Chanco Alumni - re discovered in the past few years
Well...................
It took longer than the past 2 years to create such a dire situation...................wow...uh..........hmmmmmm..
I'll have to get back to ya on that one. I'm at a loss at this point.
This is deplorable.
Chanco's Finances
As the diocesan Treasurer, each year, I submit to the Council delegates a year-end report on the financial condition of the Diocese. As chair of Chanco's Finance Committee, I submitt to the Chanco Board a year-end report. I think that it is appropriate for me to post that letter here, today. The second paragraph, specifically, the first six words, tell you the full story.
Quote
January 22, 2008
To the Board of Directors:
The 2008 approved Budget, along with the narrative explaining the revenues and expenses items, is included in this booklet. However, before reviewing the 2008 budget, we need to consider the 2007 Revenues and Expenses (which are recorded in a column on the 2008 Budget).
Chanco had its worst year ever! Its 2007 deficit is $326,157.03 (or $226,157.03 after the $100,000 additional distribution from the Mabry Fund to pay for the severance payments). Let’s review the entries to determine the cause for this deficit.
Chanco has two major sources of operating revenues: the Conference Center and the summer camp. The Conference Center has three sources: lodging, meals and day use/ program use. With respect to the Conference Center, actual revenues were under the projected amount by $15,716. With respect to Camp Chanco, actual revenues were under the projected amount by $40,334. [On reviewing the data, the summer camp amounts do not appear to be right in that based on enrollment, there should be an additional $20,000 in revenues.]
Chanco also receives contributions to its Annual Fund, $25,571.87 in 2007, investment income from certain endowed funds, $160,000 in 2007, and a diocesan subsidy of $100,000.
Thus, one contributing factor for the deficit is that revenues were over-stated by roughly $114,629.
Chanco’s expenses can be broken down into three categories: the Conference Center, the summer camp and general & administrative expenses.
Reviewing the summer camp revenues (including store sales) versus the direct expenses, Camp Chanco had a net surplus of $38,018.14.
Reviewing the Conference Center: lodging and day use/ program use revenues versus direct expenses relating to the Conference Center, the Conference Center had a net deficit (loss) of $19,960. The deficit (loss) was from linen service exceeding the budgeted amount by $10,909 and maintenance exceeding the budgeted amount by $41,637.52.
Reviewing the Conference Center: meals revenues versus direct expenses relating to meals provided to the guests, the Conference Center had a net deficit (loss) of $199,186.73. The deficit (loss) was from food purchases and labor; in addition, $71,990 of the deficit are payments to FCG Dining and roughly $30,000 relates to kitchen staff severance payments. By outsourcing the food service, Chanco should have a net surplus from Conference Center: Meals in 2008.
Reviewing the revenues from contributions, investments, and the diocesan subsidy versus the General & Administrative expenses, Chanco had a net deficit of $101,353.09, not including the severance payment of $71,123.07 to Bill Taylor. The total G&A net deficit is $172,476.16. The deficit (loss) was from maintenance, office supplies and equipment, development expenses (Fall Fest), vehicle maintenance, grounds/ landscaping and debt service.
In order to have funds to pay the severance payments, both to the kitchen staff and to Bill Taylor, Chanco received an additional $100,000 from the Mabry Fund.
For 2008, key issues relating to whether Chanco will avoid another deficit include:
1. Whether camp enrollment (between 365 and 375) is attainable? Related to this is whether the discount program will exceed the budgeted amount ($10,000)?
2. Whether the Conference Center use will remain at its present levels?
3. Whether contributions will be $40,000 (that’s 400 donors giving $100 each)?
4. Whether linen costs can be contained?
5. Whether the Fall Fest/ Alumni Reunion can be set up to pay for itself?
6. Whether maintenance expenses can be contained? For the periods 2005 through 2007, maintenance expenses exceeded $50,000, $65,000 and $87,000, respectively.
Assuming that the revenues for 2008 approximates the 2007 revenues, Chanco should have a net surplus if Chanco can control its linen expense, its website design costs, its maintenance (including property, vehicle and grounds) expenses and its development expenses (relating to the Fall Fest).
Sincerely,
Arthur E. Spooner, Jr.
Chairman, Finance Committee
End of quote
At the end of February 2008, Chanco already had a deficit of over $40,000. If you multiply that by 6, the anticipated deficit for 2008 is $240,000! Before taking the action it did, the Chanco Executive Committee reviewed why Chanco had such a high deficit so early in the year, especially since the budget projects a slight surplus.
The Diocese simply cannot afford to continue underwriting hugh losses. This past weekend, at the Executive Board meeting, we had to cut $450,000 from the Council-approved diocesan Budget. Pledge revenues simply did not meet the anticipated amount. The Diocese does not have the money.
If you want Chanco to continue, you need to support it. This is is the message that I have been delivering for over a year now. You can support Chanco by using the Conference Center, by sending youth to camp or by your contributions. The Chanco Board, and I am a member of that Board, is doing everything that we can to keep Chanco a float!
My office telephone is 757-213-3388. I am available to talk to anyone about this subject Monday thru Friday. You are welcome to visit the diocesan offices and I will let you examine the books of accounts and the audited Financial Report, prepared by an independent accounting firm. As Bishop Buchanan says, "we stand in the sunshine" -- nothing is hidden, you are welcome to see everything.
Sincerely,
Art Spooner
Chanco's finances response question for Art
Hey Art,
I have been out of DSV for many years, and only in the last year back and involved with camp. So I have no clue what has gone on since I left DSV in the 80s. I certaininly see the difficulty that the conference center poses DSV, given the financial picture you painted in your note (thanks for the numbers btw). At the festival last fall we got a similar picture and really started to work to re-invigorate our parishes, we started the alumni assoc and the capitol campaign to begin the process to recitfy this situation. What has changed since last fall that mandated the action to eliminate the executive director position? Surely this spring's financial situation was predictable then?
I will also admit to knowing nothing about the conference center... but I know something of the way the camp was run back in the day at least... and I assume when you use the term "Chanco" you mean the whole Conf. Center and Camp. Your note claims that the camp mission was in the black by about 30K and change. Without the leadership of an executive director isn't the camp is at risk? Risking that surplus of funds that is necessary to float the conference center. Does the conference center not need similar leadership to have a chance to turn around this problem?
What is the status of the capital campaign? Who is running it now?
Regards, Chuck Alley
Finance responses
Chuck,
Let’s see, I need to break down your questions so that I can respond. Okay, let’s answer the broad question about Chanco’s finances:
When I was appointed chair of Chanco’s Finance Committee, I needed to understand Chanco’s operations, especially its businesses (the camp and conference center) and the related revenues and expenses. I prepared a spreadsheet that allowed me to record the revenues and direct expenses of the camp, the conference center (lodging), the kitchen and G&A (general & administrative – revenues and expenses that would be considered indirect expenses and allocated to both business lines).
This is what I learned from this exercise:
G&A: for 2007: ($ 92,930); for 2006, ($ 39,630); for 2005, ($ 43,401)
Lodging: for 2007: $ 18,941; for 2006, $ 69,397; for 2005, $ 82,908
Kitchen: for 2007: ($136,999); for 2006, ($ 95,031); for 2005, ($ 58,961)
Camp: for 2007: $ 37,999; for 2006, $ 38,882; for 2005, $ 48,175
Obviously, in preparing any analysis, certain assumptions had to be made. One assumption was that all postage and publicity expenses would be allocated as camp expenses. Another assumption was that all propane and insurance expenses would be allocated as lodging expenses. [Yes, I know that the bathhouses use propane and that the insurance policy includes coverage for the dock, the bathhouses, the boats, liability coverage in case someone is injured, etc., but I wanted to avoid adding complexity for the sake of complexity. The difference should be relatively immaterial.]
In 2005, the revenues from investments were $20,000 less than what it was in 2006, so I made that adjustment in the chart above, but not on my worksheet (since I can trying to compare apples-to-apples).
In determining whether lodging, kitchen and camp were profitable, I also had to decide what were direct expenses versus what were indirect expenses.
After entering the amounts, I reached the following conclusions:
I need to correct your statement. I did not say that the camp was in the black; what I said was that the revenues from camp fees less the DIRECT expenses resulted in a net surplus or profit for the camp. I had not allocated any indirect expenses to the camp.
If we closed the conference center, what amounts in the lodging and in G&A (the indirect expenses) would need to be allocated to camp? Lodging “direct expenses” include utilities (propane, electricity), insurance, maintenance, gasoline and the G&A “direct expenses” include office supplies, vehicles & maintenance, office equipment, grounds (clearing brush, etc.) and the Executive’s, the receptionist’s and the casual labor’s wages. If you allocated these expenses on a 50/ 50 or 75/ 25 ratio, the camp is in the red for 2007, but not for 2006 or 2005. If you allocated 100% of these expenses to camp (since if you closed the conference center, the camp is the only source), you still would be in the red for 2007, but not for 2006 or 2005. [2006 would be a wash or positive since some of the expenses would not be incurred.]
Another conclusion is that closing the conference center really does not solve any financial problem. The conference center (lodging) makes more money than the camp!
On the budget, we list both lodging and meals as “conference center,” but this is not correct since the kitchen serves meals to the campers and if you calculated the days, the kitchen probably serves more camp meals than conference center business meals.
A couple of other responses or corrections: While camp enrollment has been eroding, we are anticipating a better camp enrollment, due primarily to Talley’s CPR program. In preparing the 2008 budget, we assumed a modest increase in camp enrollment (a total increase of 16 campers, if I recall correctly). This number is less than the number of campers we had in 2005 or 2006.
The year-to-date revenues section of the 2008 budget is as projected. In fact, the conference center seems to be out-performing prior years’. It’s the expenses that are causing the problem.
Let me respond to your question regarding whether Chanco needs someone to manage the conference center. First, weekend use is fully booked; Chanco has a waiting list. Chanco does not need to pay someone to solicit weekend business. Weekday business is a different story. Weekday business is difficult to encourage, for a variety of reasons. I can list a number of them, but virtually nothing was done in 2007 to encourage weekday business. The Hospitality Director, the Operations/ Maintenance Director and the Office Manager can handle the conference center. I am meeting with them weekly to review the budget and to answer any questions or resolve any issues.
We have hired a camp director. It makes a great deal more sense to employ a camp director, dedicated just to the camp (advertising, recruiting, enrollment, programs, etc.) than to ask someone to handle both positions. The camp director is a full time position.
The capital campaign is in the feasibility stage. We withdrew sufficient funds from an endowed fund to cover these expenses. Operating revenues are not being used, so the consulting firm’s fees are not affecting the budget. Until we hear from the consulting firm, no decision has been made as to what we should do.
The February 29, 2008 Revenues and Expenses Statement reflected a $41,000 deficit. No, this was not anticipated. The budget was prepared on a “realistic” basis, using prior years’ expenses to anticipate 2008 expenses. [For 2008, and the first time ever, I prepared a narrative to accompany the budget, which explains how the revenues and expenses were determined.] As importantly, additional information suggested that expenses that were not included in the budget would be incurred (e.g., the expense of hauling a donated boat to Chanco, which Chanco may or may not ever own and which Chanco may be required to return to Florida, at a total cost of $5,500).
I hope I answered your questions. If not, please e-mail me.
Art
$100.00 pledge...
Thank you Art for explaining the situation that Chanco is in. From reading all the different blogs and letters, it's easy to take thing out of the real context in such a situation. This might not be the best forum for getting information out. But I hope the Board will keep us informed of progress this year. I certainly believe that 400 donors of $100.00 for this year is not unrealistic. I will start by pledging that amount $100.00 and challenge all that will read this to do the same thing...
I know we have lost touch with a lot of Chanco alumni, but we need to find a way to get many more informed of this site and involved in keeping Chanco alive for generations to come.
Peace,
Phillip Bond
Contribution challenge
Phillip,
I am not a camp Chanco alum, but I accept the challenge and mutliply it by 5. My initial $250 deposit was handed to Stacey Richards on Friday. A second check will be issued later this week.
You are dedicated to preserving Chanco for the future. Well, so am I -- and I just put some money on it.
You can ask Talley Banazek for a copy of the Chanco Annual Report for 2007 and see who gave and challenge them too.
On Chanco information being shared with everyone, I suggest a joint venture here. The Alumni Association should contact Greg Willis and pay to have him develop a Chanco webpage with an index for Corporate Governance documents. Of course, if Greg is an alum, maybe he contribute some of his time -- hey, I'm don't get paid working tonight! And I will post the monthly financial statements, the balance sheet, the Finance Committee reports, other committee reports, the By Laws, etc.
Best regards,
Art Spooner
Thanks Boomer! (and Helen!)
I am a newbie on the board this year, but like Cari, I had no idea of this position being eliminated. All of this came out of the blue for me. I just found out of the position being eliminated yesterday by an email from a Chanco Alumnus. I am very confused and depressed by this. Much of the hope I has been greatly diminshed.
Boomer, your efforts were not wasted and I hope that you are not too disillusioned to not want to continue to be a part of Chanco. I have no idea why this happened, but, for what it is worth, I thought you were doing a fantastic job in this position and everything that I saw you doing was extremely positive. You were bringing a creativity and enthusiasm back to Chanco that I haven't seen in a long time. I was very excited about the ideas about sustainable buildings, organic gardens, cisterns, new programs for mid week conferences, your visits to other camps in the country, the cathedral for the diocese, etc., etc, etc....so many good ideas...I just wish you that you were given one more year to see the seeds that you had sewn bear fruit.
Thanks to you and Helen both.
Taking Charge
Dear Friends and Chanco Family
Forgive me that geography removes me from Camp and the Southern Diocese by about 400 miles. Time has me removed from Chanco by 14 years since I last stepped foot on its surface. Perhaps I can offer a voice from a distance to those who are so closely tied to Chanco now and have been always.
To those who are close to Chanco - and never left it - you are pilgrims and for that your passion is appreciated. I am comforted in knowing that many old names and faces still have ties to the Camp while many of us - do not because of time and distance.
I was as bothered as many to here about Boomer's fate the other night as I check the website often for new additions and old stories. In this case this was a new story about an old face. I don't know the dynamic of things so I will admit ignorance but as an outsider looking in who had a long relationship with the Camp and its family including my own I will make these passionate and perhaps patriotic pleas from the Palmetto State.
First - The formation of an Alumni Association was and is a great idea - something I had pondered for years but never could formulate from my location. However the time has come to accelerate the process to build this alumni base and find any and all alumni. My guess is that if half the people that stepped foot on Camp's soil feel the way many of us do - than we are talking about a formidable force to reckon with.
Second - I hope that the bitterness over Boomer's termination doesn't turn us away from Chanco altogether - my guess is that he would not want that. I think - No I know that the route best taken is that we all become educated with the circumstances. Those of you that have voiced an opinion have continued to add insight into a foggy situation. REMEMBER there are many folks that do not know what has been going on at Camp for several years or even a couple of decades. Keeping the masses informed and educated will help serve any movement to restore things the way we want Camp to be.
I will add to that this - WHO IS IN CHARGE - for everyone who continually checks this site and those that are new - which Board runs Camp - my understanding is that there is more than one committee - What is going on with the Diocese - again reminding everyone that many of us no longer reside in Southern Virginia but we keep Southern Virginia in our hearts.
I have spent 14 years in the heart of ACC and SEC country - making reference to a pair of NCAA Conferences and one thing that I am quite familiar with is the alumni base at the respective universities and their enthusiasm to support and also control the enviroments they love. Anyone who follows the schools in those respective conferences will understand - the Alumni control a lot more than standing committees. There is no reason that the alumni of Chanco cannot function much the same. The time is overdue to go on a blitz to find alumni - contact them - inform them and determine if a large body of pilgrims cannot turn what has been changed.
If there is anymore that I can do - I am able and willing
sincerest regards
Anthony Cox
Order of Chanco 1984
A Grave Error
...One which makes me wonder what kind of conenction the Exec. Board even has to the day-to-day operations of the summer camp?
As a staff member from summers 2004-2008, I can tell you Boomer's management style with his staff and his concern for the kids was absolutely top-notch. I can't speak on how he was doing numbers-wise, but I had seen every indication that he was successful in that area as well. We had a lot of conversation about finding ways to increase the effectiveness of our camp programming (making it more competitive) while still preserving the 'feel' of camp. He really shared the vision of what camp can become, a quality which I worry that anyone who subsequently fills the position will lack. I don't know how this will effect the operation of the summer camp in the immediate future, but I do know out of the 19 staff at the end of last summer, I only know of 3 that are returning (the lowest proportion in years).
Also, I'd like to chime in a note of agreement to the above comment about the 'real problem' (the conference center).
Boomer brought a new energy
Boomer brought a new energy and vision to camp. I don't know the inside politics but I am appalled at this decision. More good happened in his tenure than ever expected. And anyone in that position needs much more time to bring camp to where it needs to be. So sad. This action will not bring increased donations. And, what about 2008's staffing? Likely there will be many non-returners. What kind of summer is ahead?
Board's Decision?
Hello All,
I wanted to clarify one misunderstanding, the Board did not make this decision the Executive Board made this decision which consisted of 4 (questionably 5) members of the board. As a new member of the board this is very unsettling to me, as I simply don't understand the decision made by a few to impact so many. Boy do I wish I could have had my say, but there is the problem, had they brought this to the board the decision would have been challenged significanly. I simply don't understand a decision made in such haste. We met one month ago and there were absolutely no red flags regarding finances and this was after annual council and the bishop clearly sharing his suport of Chanco. I know that this site is monitored by executive committee members and I hope they will begin to feel the backlash because it is going to be significant. What happened was WRONG, simply put Boomer was responsible for bringing new life to Chanco. This summer was on course to be a record breaking summer, is that the problem I ask you? Does thd diocese want to rid themselves of this problem that they consider to be a financial drain and Boomer stood in the way of that? The problems began with the devlopment of the conference center, it seems to me that instead of getting rid of our greatest asset, Boomer Somers, we should be considering eliminating the problem... the conference center. Well, I didn't mince word, hope not to offend but needed to defend the board members that have not been represented.
Cari Hall
Very Sad...
For the past year there has been a renewed Chanco Spirit among all of us. I attribute this to Bommer's hard work and Greg's willingness to run this site. Under Bommer's leadership Chanco was beginning to come back to life. To eliminate his position is very disturbing. While I know it was for financial reasons, that still doesn't change the way I feel. Boomer is one of us. We all grew up at Chanco and to have one of our own in charge of its turn around gave me a feeling that Chanco would once again by the great place we all fell in love with. I am even more confused after reading the Letter from the Board. It seems to me that Boomer had accomplished a number of things in the past year. I will keep Boomer and Helen in my prayers and hope that Chanco will be there when my children are old enough to attend.
Chris Sawyer, Order of Chanco
I'll ask the question
If the camp is so financially strapped, why hire a consulting firm? It seems that the money spent on that could have finded Boomer's position. What a sad day for Chanco...........
Chanco Executive Director's Position Eliminated
To begin, I would like to sincerely thank those of you who have offered our family your prayers and support through this trying time. I had planned to remain quiet throughout this ordeal, but I am compelled to offer a few pieces of information because I am afraid that the current spin makes it seem as though my husband has somehow mishandled his role as the Executive Director. Forgive me if I sound a bit defensive, but if not now, when?
First of all, I believe that it should be made perfectly clear that the Diocese is saving approximately $30,000 a year by eliminating the Executive Director's position and adding a Camp Director. $30,000 does not seem like a lot when you compare it to Chanco's overwhelming debt and the Diocesan-wide financial crisis I read about in Talley's letter. It seems strange to me that the Board would choose to cut Boomer's position, when last year was a record-breaking year in revenues for the conference center - the highest it has ever been. With Boomer at its helm, Chanco was on its way to finally breaking even after years of suffering and debt. Apparently, the Board gave him one year and three months to work a miracle... I wish we had known that when he accepted the position and started it in January of 2007!
The Board, as Talley pointed out in her letter, offered Boomer the position as Camp Director this summer. That is true - and he nearly took it because he didn't want to leave camp high and dry, until he realized that our family cannot make ends meet on the "reduced salary" that they were offering him. In fact, the Board was essentially cutting his salary in half with their offer! In addition to that, the offer clearly stated that there would be no accommodations available for his family at camp this summer. Think about that for a moment... He would be the CAMP DIRECTOR, but his family would not be invited to join him. I was devastated, even a bit offended really. The girls were heartbroken. Last summer, we lived on the property and I worked for free! We did not hire a babysitter as a summer staffmember for our children on the camp's dime, as we were told was an option and something that had been done in the past. The girls and I didn't see much of Boomer because he was so involved with the goings-on of camp, but at least we got to see him from time to time. The new "offer" meant that we wouldn't see him except on changeover weekends, I suppose (or did the Board think he could possibly run the camp and commute??).
I am sick about all of this because I have seen the passion and dedication that Boomer has given his position as Executive Director. I wish so many things... I wish that "we," meaning all of the alumni, had been made aware of the financial crisis that made this sudden decision so necessary PRIOR to the decision itself! I am sure we could have rallied support and been able to raise funds to dig Chanco out a bit without firing Boomer! The CCAA Board has just gotten started. We haven't even had the chance to start with our support, and already heads are starting to roll - all for a whopping $30,000.
I feel like I should stop now, because I could go on and on. In closing, I would like to offer Jim Sitzler the very best this summer. Boomer hired Jim last summer as the Program Director, and we send our love and support as he takes on this difficult job. I know he has the true Chanco Spirit in his heart. He knows what camp is supposed to be about. He knows the staff that can get the job done and they love him and will follow him to the ends of the earth. I just hope they don't have to be remembered as the last staff at Chanco...
-Helen Somers
Very Unfortunate Turn Of Events....
I had heard from my mother about the demise of the director's position this morning, though I'm still trying to grasp the fact that as I've read, we lost Helen too....2 very valuable assets in a short period of time...what a blow!!!! This is very disheartening to me especially knowing how hard they both have worked & what a special place they had for Chanco in their hearts...the dire straits of the camp are very troubling & I'm praying that we aren't too late to save our beloved Camp Chanco...I'm truly at a loss for words...my thoughts & prayers go out to everyone...Peace & Luv Allison
Chanco Executive Director's position eliminated
Dear Friends of Chanco, I have some very sad news to share with each of you. Since the Chanco Board Retreat in February, Chanco's financial situation has continued to worsen. Chanco is $41,000 over budget as of the end of February. In the past when this has happened, the Diocese serves as our "bank" and lends us the money to cover payroll and the other expenses in anticipation that Chanco will pay them back. Last year, to cover the expenses incurred, we “borrowed” from the diocese approximately $250,000. This $250,000 does not include the $100,000 diocesan subsidy nor the severance payments which were paid by an additional withdrawal from our endowment fund. The diocese is currently struggling itself financially more than they ever have before and cannot afford to continue to cover Chanco's expenses. The Diocese simply does not have the money. The reality is that Chanco absolutely must be "in the black" this year if Chanco's doors are to stay open in 2009. This is the message Chanco's Board has received from the Diocese. Due to these glaring difficulties, the Chanco Executive Committee had to make some tough and very painful decisions this past week and decided that one way we could get Chanco's budget back in line was to restructure the staffing. After much difficult and painful discussion, we voted and decided to eliminate the Executive Director’s position as it is heaviest in salary/expense and instead have a Camp Director’s position. The conference center responsibilities would be handled by Ann and Jim Tansey as the Director of Hospitality and the Director of Operations (their current positions) with financial oversight/management from Art Spooner, Chair of the Finance Committee and Diocesan Treasurer. Chanco offered Robert Somers the position of Camp Director, at a reduced salary, as this role fits both his interests and skills. Yesterday, Robert informed the Chair of Personnel that he declined the position and he is receiving a generous severance package due to his position being eliminated. These types of decisions are never easy in any industry and particularly in this small business where we all know each other so well.
Jim Sitzler has accepted the Camp Director position. He has a 17+ year history with Chanco as a camper and counselor and was the Program Director for Chanco last summer. Most recently, he has been working at the YMCA with children's programs and is enthusiastic about his promotion to this new position with Chanco.
Robert has been leading Chanco for over a year and has done some exceptional work in revitalizing Chanco. Under his leadership, the first Alumni Overnight Reunion was held and was hugely successful resulting in the creation of the Camp Chanco Alumni Association. He has worked closely with Greg Willis regarding the Chanco Once website to inform alumni of Chanco happenings and to recruit volunteers for Chanco's mission. He has done fantastic work with revitalizing Camp Ads and creating the best summer camp brochure I have seen to date. Under his leadership the Chanco Parish Rep program was begun and he worked very closely with me on the development of the Chanco Rep information packet and leading training sessions for the Representatives. These are just a few of his successes and the Board is most grateful for his service. Most importantly, he has brought many of us back to Chanco's mission with enthusiasm and care. His love and commitment to Chanco is recognized by the Board of Directors with gratitude.
Please keep Chanco in your prayers during this difficult transition and continue your work to support Chanco as this place needs you now as much as it ever has. Without you, turning Chanco's numbers around will be very difficult and we are in a critical time of needing to preserve Chanco's legacy and future.
Best to each of you,
Talley Banazek
Secretary, Chanco Board of Directors
Update Helpful
Sarah Cargill Sharpsburg, MD
Thanks Talley for your update, and more details surrounding the recent events involving Boomer and Helen.
This is indeed a painful turn of events. My prayer is that the intended results are realized for Chanco and the improvement of it's financial woes. My prayers are also sent up for the Somers Family as they deal with this situation.
Thank you for the work you've done and will hopefully continue to do, to help Chanco succeed into the future.
It's tough all over, so let's all stand together in love, prayer and work for a brighter future for Chanco.
Exec. Director position eliminated
Sarah Cargill Sharpsburg, MD
As you all might imagine, I as well, am very shocked at this turn of events. I'm wondering what these folks are thinking. I do know for sure, that our voices need to be heard. Anyone who is concerned about this development, and the direction that Chanco is being taken, should make their opinion known to those in power at Talbot Hall. Since at this point, no one seems to know any details, we need to find those details, and share our concerns in a constructive way so that they will be heard. Can we, should we, flood Talbot Hall with phone calls, emails and letters? I'm not sure I understand how you cure the patient by cutting off it's head, and removing it's heart. Chanco is IMPORTANT! It's mission is IMPORTANT! Get the word out! Just let it be known that you care about Chanco, what it is, what it was, and what it can be. Much love to all of you! Sarah Etheridge Cargill
The next step...
Thank you Talley for the very helpful letter, and my thoughts and prayers are with Chanco and Boomer and Helen. I believe the next step is emails, phone calls and letters to All Chanco Alums we can find to continue the fundraising effort. If it hasn't been discussed I would recommend the Board and the Alumni Association starts a fundraising campaign to build an endowment to ensure the continued success of Camp Chanco. With a healthy endowment Chanco wouldn't have to call upon the diocese to help each year...I certainly think that the thousands that have been blessed by coming to camp would be happy to help in many ways.
My email is Phillip_abond@yahoo.com Let me know how I can be of any help!
Agape,
Phillip
Re: Chanco Executive Director....
I am completely surprised by this news and my prayers go out to Boomer and Helen. I hope there will be more explanation about this very strange news. How can Chanco continue without a Director and more over releasing Boomer after a successful first year. This is very distressing!