I first remember Chanco as a wonderful camp for a young girl. Cute surfer boys, water sports in that murky James River. An overnight canoe trip. An evening party on the Ferry going back and forth for hours with watermelon and dancing. A pajama party with everyone in the mess hall and ghost stories-especially the tale of "Blue Gums' replete with scratching and his way of walking, dragging one leg. It scared the heck out of me! Chanco sure beat Girl Scout Camp! I think I came for two summers. This buxom more experienced girl taught me how to shower with Dr. Brooner's Peppermint soap and a wash cloth, rinse off and stand in a cool breeze. That was a new awakening!

Later I came with the EYC on clean ups and get togethers. I remember Pink Floyd's "Dark Side of the Moon" was very popular. The older kids would be in the big tents making out, giving massages, etc. and then the alarm clocks would come on to a bunch of groans! And I'll never forget Dougie and Ronnie acting out "He's my Rock, my soul, my shield". I sure miss Doug. It was 19 years that he passed away from AIDS this March 1st. I loved all the music and singing. I read all the songs people remember. Don't forget James Taylor, wasn't he back then? Doug sang him so beautifully. Bart still plays guitar, plus mandoline. Took one to Scotland and would join the local folk bands. Loves it.

What a magical time. If we could take all those same intentions and feelings do something to change this war. It seems we're still on the "Eve of Destruction"

.  continue reading »