Camp Nakanawa Centennial Book 1920-2019

101 Special Library Collections and Displays • Portraits of Mitch (1972) and Ann and Pepe (2006), each honoring their 25th anniversaries • Books by Colonel Rice and Mrs. Wiggs of the Cabbage Patch books by Alice Hegan Rice • Framed collection of Carson’s wood carvings • Carved doll collection by renowned Cumberland County dollmaker Helen Bullard • Carved bird collection by local artists Bonnie and Ken Lawson in memory of Duke Perron, Pepe’s father, and Lea Alice “Wally” Hall • Old camp catalogs and scrapbooks • Quilts from the 75th Anniversary • Lou Lloveras’ Treasure Chest of poems, letters and memorabilia • National Geographic back issues • Willed team items that have been retired • Quilts representing Pepe’s church themes • Restored Old Towne canoe from Colonel Rice’s time • Carved collections by Polly Page, Pleasant Hill artist • Diorama of camp with a model electric train The Green Family The Greens’ relationship with camp has spanned all three directorships. Shown here at the Library dedication in 1962 are, from left, Bill, Beverly, Barbara and Billy, with Bobby and Betty in front. In Colonel Rice’s era, a Captain could not be selected as Lady of the Cup. Many, like Beverly Fisk, continued as campers through college. Beverly was Captain in 1940 and the next year was Lady of the Cup. She was chosen by Colonel Rice to speak during the dedication of the Kiosk on camp’s 25th anniversary. Before marrying and having five children, Beverly was a mainstay on the Waterfront. After her daughter’s death, Beverly was invited by Mitch to return to camp. She lived at the Big House with her two youngest children while her oldest daughter, Barbara Green Moate TR ’66, was a camper. The family helped Mitch close up camp for years, and father Bill Green had the joyless job of herding tearful campers onto the chartered buses. Beverly’s great-granddaughters are soon-to-be campers, and the Library is a lasting link between Nakanawa and this devoted camp family.

The End of Ely’s Era “Ely taught much more than mythology, acting, or arts and crafts. She made the In 1966, Ely became ill and underwent major surgery. To everyone’s surprise, she recovered Norse myths come alive; valor, courage, enough to return to camp as Head of Arts & Crafts and director of the Pageant. But 1966 bravery and loyalty became worthy traits.” was to be her final summer; she died four months later. In a letter to patrons, Mitch wrote, “Nakanawa has lost a great Valkazon.” After a tenure that began in 1928, Ely’s death was a — Peggy Read, counselor and friend great loss to camp. In 1969 “The Dual Pageants” were dedicated to her memory. A part of the dedication read: “Although Ely has passed beyond our human vision, the warmth of her love, her patience and the high goals she set for us will live on in our memory and be a part of our Nakanawa.” The campers who learned from her the love of mythology and an appreciation of their Amazon and Valkyrie lore returned as counselors and continued Ely’s work. Drama counselor Barbara Hayes, who had worked with Ely, became director of the Pageants; and Ely’s scripts, costumes, props and set designs continued to be used in every Pageant. Ely’s Legacy In 1971 a beautiful two-story Arts & Crafts building In 1955, a tall Amazon Warrior was Ely Mahier, whose years spanned the decades of the was erected in Senior Camp and named “The Ely designed for use at the Amazons’ special ’20s through the ’60s, had an influence on Nakanawa Building” in her memory. But Ely’s legacy reaches Seventh Meeting. Drawn by Ely and like few others in its history. She shaped the Amazon far beyond a structure. The mural she drew in the constructed by Carson, the metal outline and Valkyrie traditions and encouraged creativity in all Senior Dining Hall brings camp of the ’20s to life each of a warrior holding a spear is wrapped forms. Ely is shown here, at left, in “fancy dress” with summer; the Amazon Warrior she designed continues with cloth and set on fire as part of each to be burned on Amazon Rock; the Valkyrie Maidens Amazon meeting in Senior. her lifelong friend Peggy Read. dance in costumes she inspired. Beyond helmets and shields and dragon-headed war canoes, the passion Ely felt for the teams and for the girls she inspired lives on in today’s Amazons and Valkyries.

103 From the ’30s to the mid-60s, each team spent a full month preparing for its Pageant. The Amazons performed on land near the Crows Nest, and the Valkyries performed on the docks and beach. Hours were spent in memorization of lines, rehearsing and costume and set preparation. Junior Camp and hundreds of guests attended the glorious spectacles each year.

Lasting Changes Though many aspects of camp seem set in concrete, each decade brought positive Lou Lloveras, pictured here at Counselor Initiation in her first summer, changes. Team traditions continued to evolve. In 1961, the first Octet a capella singing 1951, finally found her “home” when Cabin 4 was added. She remained the tryouts were held. Previously this group had been composed of the six top officers plus Cabin 4 counselor until 1976 when she became Head Counselor. two of the best singers. In 1962, Mitch moved elections to the first Saturday night of In 1961, the six top officers were no longer automatically members of Octet. camp instead of the first Wednesday (campers arrived on Tuesday in Mitch’s era) to Tryouts were held to select the best eight singers in camp, a tradition that has allow campers more time before voting on officers. continued ever since. Here, Octet 2015 performed at Trophy Night. In 1963, Carson and his workers built a special new cabin in Senior, Cabin 4. There had always been four Tent Row cabins, numbered 1 through 4; however, there was room for another large cabin at the end of Tent Row. These cabins were renumbered 0, 1, 2, 3 and the new cabin became 4. Lou Lloveras was assigned Cabin 4 in 1964, beginning a residence that lasted for two decades. The words “Lou” and “Cabin 4” soon became synonymous, and older campers aspired to be in “Lou’s Cabin.” Two songs that are woven into camp’s fabric were written in 1966. For the song contest, Tent Row ’66 composed “The Spirit of Nakanawa.” Though it placed only second in the contest, it was quickly adopted and remains first in the hearts of many campers. One Counselor Bunk Stunt in Senior was “Merry Camper,” a spoof on Mary Poppins. The “Trophy Night” song, written to the tune of “Feed the Birds,” was such a favorite that it has been sung at Trophy Night ever since. The first summer that campers went by bus to Crossville to see a play at the newly opened Cumberland County Playhouse was 1964. Mitch was a lifelong supporter of the local theatre, considered one of the top regional playhouses in the country. The following summer was the premier of Tennessee USA, an original musical about Tennessee’s history that ran for ten summers. Bob Gunton, who had the starring role of Johnny Timberlake, visited camp annually to entertain the girls. Gunton later hit the big time with starring Broadway roles and in movies such as Shawshank Redemption and Demolition Man. Ann and Pepe Perron have continued the trips to the playhouse, and the musicals remain a summer highlight.

105 Making Waves on the Waterfront In 1971 Lucy McDaniel initiated the Three-Day Canoe Trip on nearby Center Hill Lake. This trip continues as a much-anticipated privilege for the In 1970, Mitch hired Lucy McDaniel, a physical education teacher from Stetson University, Tent Row girls. Pictured here, TR ’82. to head up and rejuvenate the Senior Waterfront. During her three-year tenure, she ignited a new level of enthusiasm for Swimming. Lucy persuaded Mitch to paint the dark green docks in both camps light blue and add colorful red and blue lane markers. Although the awards of Dolphin and Whale had started in the Colonel’s time, Lucy gave them new star power. With Carson’s carpentry and Margaret Matens’ artistry, an eight- foot wooden Dolphin and a three-dimensional wood/canvas whale were constructed. The whale was carried by two counselors “in its belly,” one operating a fire extinguisher to simulate the whale’s spray. Later additions include a Diving Dolphin and a Shark (the highest achievement in distance swimming, a program inaugurated by Louise Boteler.) Nearly 50 years later, these same “animals” are used to signal the surprise announcement of a new Dolphin, Shark or Whale. Lucy’s passion was contagious, and young counselors like Lucie King and Louise Boteler were inspired by her and carried on the Swimming surge. Making Shark, Blade, Dophin or Whale remains one of the most exciting achievements. Lucy’s innovations included a huge wooden Whale and Dolphin, whose arrival continues to signal A new Diving Dolphin, Lindsey Butchko, TR ’17, center, celebrated with the surprise announcement of these high honors. her aunt Alice Boteler Layman, cousin Martha Layman McKechnie, sister Christina and mother Laura Boteler Butchko.

Commemorating Camp’s “Nakanawa ... 50th Anniversary – 1969 A remembrance of things past, a promise of things Planning for the 50th Anniversary began months ahead, as Mitch, to come. And what of Scooter and office staffers Peggy Parrott and Winona Bohanan the present? The present researched addresses and mailed invitations. Their work took is a fabric woven of place in a new Carson-built office with modern equipment, heat strands from past and and air conditioning. Alumnae were invited to one of three future, and within every celebratory weekends based on the years they attended camp. moment of the present is Special events were designated for each of the three dates, and contained a memory of campers and counselors enthusiastically joined in preparations. the past and a seed of the Each of the reunions began with a church service on the lawn future...” behind the Big House and included a piece played on camp’s new handbells, a gift of Dr. Fran Lankford. “Lunch on the Green,” an – from the Anniversary Pageant enormous picnic on the Soccer Field, fed throngs of guests and both Junior and Senior Camps. Gallons of green beans (snapped in Scooter and Mitch with their dogs, Chris the C.B. by the counselors) and frozen fruit salad were ladled out. the collie and Susie, the Irish setter The first of the three weekends featured the Amazon Pageant, dedicated to Ely, and the unveiling of a portrait of Mitch. The second Sunday included the War Canoe Drill and the Operetta, Alice in Wonderland. The final Sunday featured the War Canoe Race and an historical pageant performed by both counselor staffs. Pictured here is the War Canoe Race from 2015.

107 Many hoped Colonel Rice would attend the 50th, but the camp’s founder, at age 99, declined and sent Mitch a congratulatory telegram. His daughter Annie Hays and granddaughter Anne O’Neil Miller attended along with many campers from the ’20s and ’30s. Annie Hays, at left, is shown with Anne Miller, right, and granddaughter Sally Miller, who was Valkyrie Captain that summer. To mark Mitch’s 20 years as camp’s Director, Dr. Fran Lankford and Jane Hochendel Johnston engaged a Texas artist to paint a portrait of Mitch that was unveiled during the 50th Anniversary summer and then hung over the fireplace in the Library. 50th Anniversary Pageant The counselors’ 50th anniversary contribution was a musical retelling of camp’s history written by Lou Lloveras, Helen “Stubby” Stubbs and Linda “Blossom” Deloteus. It featured a lively dialogue between the Spirit of Nakanawa Past, dressed in bloomers and a middy blouse, and the Spirit of Nakanawa Present. The Spirits shared scenes of camp, enlivened by songs, to help the other understand the changes over the decades. Two new 18-year-old counselors who had parts were Ann Mitchell Perron and Margaret Hawkins Matens. Highlights of the final 50th Reunion Weekend were a church service and the historical pageant put on by both counselor staffs and presented on the back terrace of the Big House.

End of the Eight-Week Session In 1971 the camp session, which had always been eight weeks, was shortened to seven weeks. Then, in 1978, it was again reduced, to six weeks. The shorter session was necessitated by the difficulty of finding a block of time that matched the schedules of both northeastern and southern schools. Summer vacations were no longer three months long. Mitch asked Margaret Hawkins Matens, who was Program Coordinator, to fit the essential events into six weeks. Eliminated were weekly cabin Bunk Stunts, the Junior Fair, Counselor Bunk Stunts (except for special occasions) and many Free Day trips. In place of a full-scale Pageant, the Valkyrie Maiden dance, Amazon Warrior dance and other pieces of team pageantry were incorporated into Valkyrie Vespers and the Amazon Weiner Roast. Another important change in scheduling occurred at this time. In Senior, campers were no longer restricted to taking classes with their team and age group (e.g. Amazon Seniors) as they had for decades. The new system provided flexibility and allowed Amazons and Valkyries to share classes. Though the shortened sessions ended the full-scale Pageants, each team incorporated key elements of their mythology into the Amazon Weiner Roast and Valkyrie Vespers. Dragon- head war canoes, flaming arrows, the Maidens and Warriors continue. Shortened sessions brought about the demise of some favorite events including Tuesday night Cabin Bunk Stunts. With minimal costumes and sets made of laundry paper, cabins produced short skits that were judged for “Final Bunk Stunts.” Memories of laughter-filled evenings in the old Little Theatre are dear to all Senior campers.

109 Human Bingo, Double Trouble Many nights at camp are reserved — for Rock Meetings, Council Ring or a special event. The “open” nights are planned by the Evening Entertainment (“EE”) Committee. As camp shortened, only the favorites survived. Margaret Matens, head of Senior “EE” for close to fifteen years, was passionate about this aspect of camp life. Some of the creations from that era continue on: the Senior Prom, the 4th of July Marathon Relay, Counselor “To Tell the Truth,” Human Bingo and “The 12 Days of Egypt” skit. Other counselors who focused on EE included Dana Beer TR ’76, Sharon Fisher Roberts TR ’78 and Courtney Stapp Kaminer TR ’77. When Margaret returned to Junior Camp in 1988, she initiated some Junior favorites: Double Trouble, Deck the Counselors, Sunday Afternoon Special Events (to liven up Sundays for the younger girls), the Miss America Pageant and the July 4th Egg Toss and Uncle Sam with shaving cream. Fun-filled Fourth of July festivities included the Marathon Relay in Senior and the Egg Toss and Uncle Sam games in Junior. The Prom, at top, is a night of hilarity, dance contests and creative costumes ending with the crowning of the King and Queen. The July 4th Marathon, begun in 1975, culminates with the watermelon relay at the docks. The Miss America Pageant, at right, originated in Senior in the ’70s but migrated to Junior, where each year the counselors compete to be the tackiest and most ridiculous contestant.

The 1970s: A Decade of Debuts The ’70s, Mitch’s final decade, saw a number of important arrivals: Casey Fisher returned to head up Junior, Softball was started in Senior, trips to Cumberland Caverns began, the Nakanawa Slide Show premiered, and Bill Tays joined his father at camp. One of the main projects Mitch asked Margaret Matens to tackle during the year she worked at camp, 1979-80, was to take the research begun by counselor Barb Miller and complete a history of camp. The result was Nakanawa: The First Fifty Years, which remains in print and was a valuable resource for the centennial history. In the late ’70s Mitch made a key Casey at the Helm: change in the composition of Tent In 1972 Kay Colwick, now Casey Fisher, Row. Before that time, the 15 girls returned to camp for the first time with the longest tenures were since Tent Row 1955 and became Head assigned to the small Tent Row cabins. Gradually the other 3rd- Counselor in Junior. She continued Year Seniors had been given the in this role for 15 years, sharing her Tent Row privileges: sunbathing remarkable gift for organization and her unquenchable enthusiasm, providing on the docks, aiding, wearing stability in Junior. In 1976 Casey, her son counselor jackets and taking part and daughter—Sharon Fisher Roberts in the 3-Day Canoe Trip. Allowing TR ’78 — moved from Dallas to live in this group to call themselves “Tent the renovated Junior office while Casey Row Girls” was a natural step, and taught high school English in Crossville, becoming a year-round camp family. one met with great enthusiasm. Mitch is shown with TR ’75, one of the last 15-only groups. The Slide Show is Born When former Lady of the Necklace and counselor Suzanne Toledano TR ’52 died of cancer, her camp friends wanted to honor her memory. Suzanne’s daughters, Sudie, Chris and Laure Redmond, had been recent campers. Mitch was enthusiastic about a memorial project proposed by Louise Boteler and Margaret Hawkins Matens — replacing the black and white movies with a narrated slide show that could include more aspects of camp. Margaret wrote the script and Louise took hundreds of slides of all phases of camp life. In the new slide show, every camper was photographed by state – an idea begun in Colonel Rice’s time. The slideshow premiered in New Orleans in 1978 to enthusiastic response. Louise continued as “camp photographer” for several years until Ann and Pepe inherited the project. Though the general script and format remain the same, 75 percent of the slides are changed each year.

In 1970, Carson Tays was joined 111 by his son Bill as a full-time As all the old rough-bark cabins were gradually replaced, the new ones in Junior employee. Bill, who worked for were built using a Carson design — a pair of cabins joined by a breezeway. camp until 1985, is shown with his son Bob. Carson’s crew — which included Bill, Bunk Hall, Bob Brown and Mark Hall — completed a number of major projects over the next decade: the Crow’s Nest renovation (1970), the two-story Ely Arts & Crafts Building in Senior (1971) and a new Senior C.B. (1979). They also gradually replaced every Colonel Rice-era log cabin in both camps. One of Carson’s last major projects — an idea he proposed to Mitch — transformed the Senior Batter Up: In 1977, Mitch invited newlyweds Margaret and Jack Matens to be Waterfront. The sheer stone wall of the Crow’s Nest was replaced with wide terraced steps to on staff as a couple, and that summer “Camp Nak Jack” initiated the Softball create a gathering place facing the lake and a stage for Amazon Pageants and other events. program, adding a team sport option that continues to be a favorite.

Carson’s Passing “From Mother to Daughter his Crosses We’ll Hand on …” In 1977, after several small heart attacks, Carson had open heart surgery for an enlarged heart. On Feb. 11, 1980, he had a fatal heart attack while at work in the camp greenhouse. In a letter to patrons Mitch wrote: ”God occasionally creates a masterpiece. He did so when he gave us Carson … Carson gave so much and gave so freely from a heart so filled with love, it’s no wonder it burst.” Carson was buried in a Nakanawa counselor jacket holding a pocket knife in one hand and, in the other, a stick of cedar with an almost-completed cross. After 32 years as Camp Superintendent, Carson is remembered for his ruddy cheeks, hardened muscles, twinkling eyes and teasing ways. He had the creativity of an artist, the mind of an inventor, the down-to-earth demeanor of a mountain man, a strong faith and a deep-seated love for Nakanawa.

113 Soon after Carson’s death, a new overnight spot on the lake named Carson’s Point was established, and it remains a popular destination for swimming, canoeing and camping out. A recent memorial to Carson, given by Adrian Winship Pressly TR ’71, was built in 2015— a new flagpole in Senior surrounded by Crab Orchard stone with a bronze marker identifying the site as “Carson’s Courtyard.” “His love will never now be lost, We will wear it forever, captured in a cross …” Three decades after his death, Carson’s crosses and other carvings are highly valued possessions. The small cedar charms are passed down from one generation to another, and every camper knows the name Carson. After his death, Carson’s family donated to camp a jar containing the remaining Carson Crosses. Since that time, one of his crosses has been presented on Trophy Night to a girl who is chosen Outstanding New Camper, an award not often given. Later, Ann and Pepe gave jeweler Jim Hamby a Carson Cross to use as a mold, resulting in both gold and silver crosses. The silver one is presented to a counselor marking her 20th year at camp. The gold crosses are given during Reunion Weekend to those celebrating their 50th Tent Row reunion. As the words to “Carson’s Song” explain: From mother to daughter his crosses we’ll hand on, From counselor to camper his name we’ll pass along, Amazons and Valkyries will ne’er forget this friend, And the love he gave Nakanawa will never end.

Mitch’s Final Years In 1985, several years after Mitch retired, the teams staged The retirement of three of Mitch’s valued friends — Senior Head Counselor Lea Alice “Wally” Hall in dual Pageants as a tribute to her. 1973, Assistant Director Helen Gates “Scooter” Carson in 1976, and Eva B. Boylston in 1978 — were hard losses. The death of Carson Tays in 1980 was the final blow. Mitch, nearing 70, began to focus on finding the next generation of leadership for Nakanawa. She had always hoped to keep camp in her family, so she turned to one of her outstanding “camp” nieces, Ann Mitchell. After a year of discussions, Ann and her husband Pepe Perron agreed to accept the position. The camp stock that had been spread among many family members was purchased by Ann and Pepe so that they owned camp outright. That winter Mitch purchased and moved into “Yonside,” a lovely historic home in the Uplands Retirement Village at Pleasant Hill, just seven miles away. Ann and Pepe moved into the Big House in March. In the mid-80s Mitch added an apartment to her home for Eloise Mounger, who had taken over the role of camp bookkeeper after Scooter’s departure. Eloise lived with Mitch and cared for her until “Miss Mitchell” died in 2000 at the age of 87. Mitch often joked that she would not run camp without Carson at her side. In 1980, Ann worked as Head Counselor in Senior, shadowing and learning from After his death in 1980, she continued for only one more summer before Mitch. At the conclusion of the 1980 Trophy Night, Mitch announced that Ann and turning over the reins of camp. Pepe would be taking over as Directors. She assured the group that she would “be around as much as they want me” and said she was looking forward to the role of Camp Grandmother.

115 Mitch, below, in her final year as Director, at Trophy Night in 1980, awarded the Bracelet to Susie Bergfeld, daughter of Susan Hood Bergfeld TR ’62 and granddaughter of Helen Barnes Hood TR ’34. After she retired, Mitch was a frequent visitor at camp. She is shown here with Captain Megan Wellford TR ’90, and Lou Lloveras at a soccer game. Mitch assisted Ann and Pepe with their transition to Directors and kept in close contact with hundreds of multi-generation camp families until she died. She is shown at left with two legacy campers, Allison Prickett TR ’97, daughter of Barbara Johnson Prickett, TR ’63; and Miller Moate Wilson TR ’97, daughter of Barbara Green Moate and granddaughter of Beverly Fisk Green.

Ten Things Campers Remember about Mitch 1. A tall, formidable, dignified presence 2. An accomplished athlete, but always a lady 3. Her Sunday sermons, especially stories from Bird Life in Wington 4. Her half-red, half-blue scarf, E.M. monogrammed shirts and white tennis skirts 5. Watching her play tennis with Scooter, Wally and Dr. Fran 6. Her lively sense of humor and the way she slapped her knee when she laughed aloud 7. “Busy girls are happy girls.” 8. Shooting movies from the top of the wigwam as the Circus parade marched up 9. Her high expectations for every camper 10. Her wisdom, compassion and strength of character

117 In Memory of Mitch Memories of Mitch live on at Nakanawa. Campers view her portrait in the Library and listen to stories from Bird Life in Wington during Devotions. In 2008 the T.I.E.S. alumni honored Mitch with a sign christening the trail that links Junior to Senior as “The Mitch Trail” — now one leg of the Trail Around the Lake. Mitch’s most significant memorial is the Elisabeth Mitchell Charitable Trust, a 501(c)3 nonprofit begun by Ann and Pepe Perron. During camp’s 75th celebration, Georgia Graham Mattern and other members of Tent Row ’81 spearheaded an effort to solicit donations for the Trust. They presented camp with a $10,000 check, leading the way for future donors. The Trust provides camperships to children who would not otherwise be able to afford a summer camp experience, and it has allowed hundreds of donors to honor the memory of Nakanawa’s beloved second Director.

The Ann & Pepe Era: 1980-present Ann Mitchell Perron and her husband Pepe Perron have been Camp Directors since 1981. Elisabeth Mitchell, Ann’s aunt, asked the couple to take over the operation of Nakanawa when she retired. Ann and Pepe moved into the Big House, which has been their permanent home for close to 40 years. Ann — a camper and counselor for many summers and a Lady of the Cup — was an ideal choice to carry on camp traditions and build on Nakanawa’s rich legacy. Pepe, a businessman from Gainesville, Georgia, focused on improving camp’s facilities and adding innovative programs. Together Ann and Pepe have provided loving leadership, shepherding camp into the 21st century, coping with the changes brought about by new technology and shortened summer vacations, ensuring that Nakanawa’s values and the connections with thousands of alumni remain strong 100 years after its founding.

119 Ann and Pepe: “Camp Felt Like a Calling” Ann Mitchell Perron and Pepe Perron were 30 years old when they became Nakanawa’s third Directors. Ann was a school teacher and Pepe a successful businessman when the call came to take the reins of Nakanawa. Ann and Pepe felt it was just that — a calling. Ann Mitchell Ann’s ascension to Camp Director was a logical progression: she was sung to sleep with “The Valkyrie Lullaby” and started Junior Camp at age 12. A Valkyrie like her three older sisters, she was chosen Lady of the Cup in 1967 along with her best friend Emily Bryan Grimes, at right. Ann developed her love of horses at camp and returned for a number of years as a Riding counselor. After graduating from Converse College, she married Pepe Perron in 1973 and was an elementary school art teacher for seven years. Ann developed her love of horses at camp and A Valkyrie like her three older sisters, Ann returned for a number of years as a Riding was chosen Lady of the Cup in 1967, along counselor. She is shown here on ’Tis So, one of with her best friend, Emily Bryan Grimes. Nakanawa’s famous five-gaited horses. Pepe Perron Pepe’s career path from the poultry industry to running a girls’ camp took a leap of faith. Raised in Gainesville, Georgia, Pepe graduated from Wofford College with a degree in history. For nine years he Pepe as a school boy, and in his Culver Military Academy uniform. worked in his family’s commercial leghorn hatchery and for Babcock Poultry Farms, Inc., with oversight for production, sales and finances. As a boy, Pepe attended Culver Military Academy’s summer camp for eight weeks, an experience that affected him profoundly and taught him how powerful summer camp could be in shaping lives.

The Perron Family After their wedding in 1973, the couple settled in Gainesville, Georgia. In 1981, they moved again … to Mayland, Tennessee, after they made the decision that would change the course of their lives. Ann and Pepe as Newlyweds in 1973 In 1986 Ann and Pepe adopted three siblings: from left, Robert aged 7, Jamie aged 6 and Jennifer aged 3. While the children were young, Pepe’s mother came to help during the busy summers. The children soon became an integral part of camp. Both girls were campers: Jamie was in Tent Row ’98 and became a Nature counselor. After Jennifer’s camper days ended, she taught Riding in Junior.

The First Years: With Faith and Rolled-up Sleeves 121 Though Mitch was nearby and assisted during the first years of transition, Ann and At important events such as Team Drawings or Trophy Pepe created their own style of leadership. After Mitch made the announcement in Night, Ann and Pepe work as a team, each playing a role. 1980 of the change in directors, Ann traveled with her the following winter while Pepe wrapped up his business in Georgia. In the spring of 1981 the couple moved into the Big House in the tiny unincorporated town of Mayland, taking responsibility for 1,100 acres, over 100 buildings, a barnful of horses, racks of canoes and the looming challenge of lining up campers and staff for the summer of 1981. With youthful energy, courage and faith in all that Nakanawa represents, they accepted the challenges and rolled up their sleeves. For the first few years, the couple traveled to over 30 cities with a slide show, getting to know representatives and other camp friends. Since camp was just one six- week session, Pepe realized that, after three years on the job, he still had “only 18 weeks’ experience as a camp director.” With a place so steeped in tradition, they made decisions thoughtfully, always focused on what was best for the campers. “Hail, Chief Pepe” In 1981 few remained who had camped with Colonel Rice, so having a man as Director was a novelty. From the first summer Pepe presided over Council Ring with dignity, handing out posture pins and encouraging campers to “try your best.”

Rocking Chairs and Split Rail Fences Pepe’s farm background prepared him well for the demands of keeping up a sprawling and often antiquated physical plant. The first winter ice formed on the insides of the Big House windows, and they discovered that the local power company had not wired camp. Carson had devised his own clever system, adding power as needed from a main source line to the Dining Hall, the Library, and from cabin to cabin. Carson’s 40-year-old insulation and design had to be replaced and brought up to standard. Pepe’s focus was on projects that made camp welcoming, attractive and fun. Early projects included: • Buying wooden rocking chairs. After Tennessee State Senator Douglas Henry presented Nakanawa with two rockers one summer, Ann and Pepe began adding wooden rockers to the porches of the camp’s key gathering spots. • Adding a playground to the Junior Games Field • Planting the family’s annual live Christmas trees around camp— a Colorado Spruce, a Norway Spruce and a Frazier Fir • Adding Crab Orchard stone to both counselor bunkhouse chimneys • Splitting white oak logs to repair the scenic fences that edge the grounds • Adding slides on the docks – and a raft – for each Waterfront

123 Camp Lasts 365 Days a Year For Ann and Pepe, Nakanawa became a year-round commitment. After the campers depart, Pepe oversees maintenance and infrastructure improvements while Ann travels to over 30 cities with the slide show. They are the first Directors for whom the Big House is their only house. Colonel Rice had a second home and Mitch an apartment in Atlanta. In spring and fall Ann and Pepe lease camp’s facilities to organizations and church groups. In the 1970s Mitch began a long relationship with Iron Horse Gymnastics Camp, who leased camp at the close of the session. Ann and Pepe decided to expand this program, which brings in additional revenue and introduces many to camp. The Pavilion was built in 1982 to accommodate a gymnastics camp from Tullahoma that used Nakanawa facilities for close to 15 years. Groups such as the Tennessee Scenic Rivers Association return year after year. Nakanawa is also popular for family reunions and weddings; a number of Nakanawa brides have married on the Crows Nest and departed by War Canoe! After camp, Ann and Pepe hold a Labor Day gathering for family and friends, now nearing its 40th year. Since the Camp’s alumni group, T.I.E.S., began in 2006, a September Mother Daughter Weekend and Service Weekend in May have been added to their annual calendar. Top: Ann, providing a little cowboy with a ride on her horse, Mr. P, during an annual Labor Day weekend gathering. When camp is not in session, dozens of groups lease the facilities, Non-profits such as church groups and Rotary are allowed to hold events at camp. These fall and spring groups provide added revenue and spread the word about Nakanawa. Right: Pepe is at work every day, summer and winter. In addition to off-season maintenance and new construction, he raises close to 30 Black Angus cattle each year. He soon became a cornerstone of the Crossville community — active in church, Rotary and the Chamber of Commerce. He has served on the boards of the Cumberland County Playhouse, Uplands Village and the Crossville Rotary. In addition, he has hosted over 100 “Crossville Profiles” on the local TV station.

Great Additions — from Fireworks to Pancakes Soon after taking over as Directors, Ann and Pepe began making significant and very popular additions to the camp schedule — fireworks on the 4th and cookouts at the lake. In 1988, they initiated Pancake Breakfasts … a morning with no wake-up bell! Campers come to the Dining Hall dressed in PJs for bacon, sausage and pancakes. In 1991, Ann and Pepe reinstated Nature as a class in Junior and Golf in Senior. Ann and Pepe are both vitally interested in the natural world and believe in the value of teaching children about the birds, creatures, flowers and trees at camp. In 1991 they asked Margaret Matens to start a Nature class in Junior. For the first few years Margaret lived in Cottage Cheese and set up aquariums and cages on her front porch. She quickly discovered a passion for connecting kids with nature and has been teaching it at camp every summer since. In 1982, fireworks were added as a culmination of July 4th In the mid-80s Pepe installed large grills festivities. Campers gather at their respective docks to watch by the Waterfront in each camp, making the display over the lake. Longtime Games and Canoeing possible frequent all-camp cookouts — counselor Emily Henry McMahon TR ’71 had contributed a time of open docks, relaxing by the fireworks for many summers. Since the deaths of Emily and lake and good food. Pictured, Head her daughter Cate McMahon Blount, the Henry family has Counselor-Chef Jan Bell Harper and continued to donate fireworks in their memories. In 2006 helpers from TR ’01. the Emily McMahon Canoe Building was also erected as a memorial to her.

125 Woodburning: A Nakanawa Institution In 1983, Ann began woodburning Christmas ornaments for the entire camp family using small wood rounds made of sourwood and edged with bark — bearing a unique design each year. To date she has made over 20,000 and now enlists T.I.E.S. volunteers during Service Weekend to help with the creative holiday gift. The woodburning tradition came to camp in 1969 with Margaret Hawkins. She brought along a woodburner made by her father, LSU professor Murray Hawkins. Margaret wood-burned plaques and bunkie gifts and loaned the woodburner to others. Soon woodburned items were a fixture. In 1980 Mr. Hawkins made a woodburner for camp, which Ann used for 20 years before securing professional models. Traditional woodburned items include Runner-Up Medals, Most Improved Awards, counselor name tags as well as special signs and plaques.

The Beginning of Two-Week Camp As summer vacations dwindled in length, parents began requesting shorter camp sessions. Ann and Pepe realized that a two-week session would provide a valuable introduction to Nakanawa while making greater use of camp’s facilities. In 1988, 37 little girls attended the inaugural Two-Week session. The next summer the number grew to 60 and soon to 140. Careful thought was given to providing a true Nakanawa experience while reserving special awards and activities for the long session. Two-Week campers draw for Amazon or Valkyrie, elect Team Leaders (not officers) and attend Rock Meetings. Classes, Free Days and Council Ring are similar. At session’s end, campers receive Felt Letters, put on a Musical (an abridged Operetta) and attend Awards Night. “The Spirit of Nakanawa” Award is presented to the outstanding camper or campers. Karen Hale, TR ’80, provided leadership for Junior Two-Week from 2000 to 2006; she then crossed the lake and has been Head Counselor for Intermediate Two-Week and Four-Week programs in Senior since 2007. Others who led Two-Week sessions for a number of years include Randi Nyman Halsell TR ’60, Jan Bell Harper TR ’66, Shelly Duer Landau TR ’75, Karen Barlow Parrish TR ’81 and Cindy Alexander DuBose TR ’86. Under the warm guidance of these former campers, close to 4,000 girls have started their Nakanawa journey during Two-Week camps. After Two-Week camp became so popular that many summers had waiting lists, an Intermediate Two- Week camp in Senior was added in 2000 for girls in grades six through eight. In addition to classes, In- termediates enjoy a trip to the Playhouse, put on a musical and plan an evening of fun for the Two-Week Juniors who canoe over for a cookout. When Ann and Pepe initiated Two-Week camp in 1988, they asked Louise Boteler to be the founding Head Counselor. Louise, TR ’70, had been Head of the Senior Waterfront for close to 10 years. With a mother and grandmother who had camped with Colonel Rice, she was ideally suited to shaping a program that would respect traditions, instill camp values and focus on fun. Louise, shown here with Murray Matens TR’01, led Two- Week for its first seven years.

127 Little Girls. Big Experience!

Major Changes in the ’90s The same scheduling pressures that led to Two-Week Camp were making the six-week session difficult for families. Campers from the Northeast were still in classes when Two-Week began, and schools in the South were starting early in August. In 1993, Ann and Pepe shortened the long session to five weeks, and then in 2000 to four weeks. The end-of-camp schedule is now more focused on parents and visitors, with the Junior Operetta and Senior music and drama productions on the final day. For those who attended camp when it lasted eight weeks, the pace of camp in the 21st Century seems intense. To include all of the highlights and traditional events, every day is packed to the brim. Magically, it all fits. As camp’s long session was shortened, key changes helped compress all the important events into one month. In Junior, the two team parties are combined into one “Valkazon Party,” put on by the Sixth Graders of both teams. In Senior, most out-of-camp trips occur on the same day, and many Free Days are used for meets and extra work in activities. The Operetta, above and right, previously held two weeks before the end of camp, was moved to the final weekend. Despite the fact that the girls have less than four weeks to rehearse, the Operetta continues to be a masterful production and is one of the hallmarks of Junior Camp. Parents and visitors watch the second performance on the final afternoon of camp.

129 N Girl Award Innovation Gone but Not Forgotten In 1992 the N Girl award was replaced with a ceremony honoring all of Tent Row. Since • Shirt cardboard from the laundry Colonel Rice established N Girls in 1921, the felt “N” had been given to the oldest girls • Firecracker Buddies who embodied the ideals of Nakanawa. Under Ann and Pepe’s leadership, with key • Phone Duty support from Louise Boteler, Head of Junior, and Jan Bell Harper, Head of Senior, and in • Cabin Council • Breakfast cookouts consultation with Tent Row ’92 and counselors, the decision was • Bean baskets made to make this key change. • Cabin Bunk Stunts Since 1992, the unique contribution of each TR girl has been • Vegetable garden honored at Trophy Night. During Mitch’s last years, the change was • Sunday weigh-in made to designate all Third Year Seniors — rising seniors in high • Posture exercises school — a part of Tent Row rather than just the 15 girls with the • Weekly allowance and Team Dues most years in camp. Now each TR girl is honored. Octet sings the • Snapping green beans in the C.B. traditional song to the group, with the words “N Girls” being replaced with “Tent Row.” • Hershey bars for Saturday lunch (now replaced with This decision was met by an outpouring of support from campers old and new, and many consider this gesture of inclusiveness a defining point of Ann and Pepe’s early years. brownies) Since 1992, each Tent Row girl has been honored at Trophy Night. Each receives a silver “N” charm, representing the unchanging sterling qualities of Nakanawa, as well as a hand-carved wooden “N,” originally carved by Jan Bell and now made by B.J. Jenkins. Each carved N is unique like each Tent Row girl. Here, a group of 2015 Tent Row girls proudly displayed their new “N”s. “Tent Row, Tent Row, We of Nakanawa are proud of you. You’ve proved yourself to be honest and just. In you we now put our lasting trust …”

Campers from Across the Globe “We girls are a very lucky people to come to a camp like Nakanawa, Nakanawa has always attracted girls from across the U.S. During Mitch’s years, From each different city a few international campers enrolled. In the 1970s the Inserni family began and each new town...” sending girls from Puerto Rico, starting with Margarita TR ’73 and Uisi Inserni TR ’78, whose mother, Molly Milam, had been a close friend of Mitch’s at camp. Having a cabinmate from Mexico, Egypt, California or another far-flung place is When Ann and Pepe became Directors, they made concerted efforts to appeal an experience many campers value. On picture day, campers from over 30 states to international families. Many campers have attended from the Dominican and many international countries are proud to display their “hometown” signs. Republic, Mexico, Colombia, Venezuela and Bolivia. For many families, the fact that their daughters speak English during the session is an added bonus. As Nakanawa alumni moved to other countries, they sent daughters to camp from places such as Germany, Italy and Egypt. Through an organization named Camp Counselors USA, Ann and Pepe began hiring international staff, making camp even more geographically diverse. Counselors from Sweden, Australia, England, The Netherlands, Germany, Thailand, China and Costa Rica added to the rich geographic mix. In 1998, camp began hiring international helpers in the kitchen, and Nakanawa has been enriched by lively ladies from Russia, Ukraine, Belarus, Hungary, Mexico and Colombia.

131 “Without the Showers … There’d Be No Flowers” In Mitch’s time, Eva B. came early to set out seedlings in the greenhouse that she later moved to flower beds around camp. Ann and Pepe, both flower lovers, wondered what perennials could be planted that would bloom in June and July, spread and grow with each passing season. The answer was day lilies and native oak leaf hydrangeas. Thirty years ago Pepe began planting day lilies along the fence lines; today, over 100 varieties bloom at camp, making a glorious show. The hydrangea bushes he set out around the bases of many buildings bloom all summer. Ann has expanded on a wildflower garden behind the Library that was started by Mitch. Flower beds of annuals are also scattered through camp, many planted by Annette Hall. Old canoes made into planters are a nostalgic touch. The summer’s array of flowers is now as much a part of camp’s scenery as the lake and pine trees. In 2008, longtime Junior nurse Betty Souther provided funds to establish a butterfly garden at the Nature Hut in memory of her mother, Dolly Mackay, who spent many summers in the infirmary with her daughter. Each summer hummingbirds, bees and butterflies flock to the flowers, creating a lovely spot as well as a great teaching resource.

Adventurous Out-of-Camp Trips After the 3-Day Canoe Trip and Cave Trip were established, Ann and Pepe decided to create a unique outdoor adventure for each age group. By the early ’90s, these trips were solidified so girls look forward to a different trip each summer. On Trip Day, girls board chartered buses and spend the day rafting, caving, canoeing or hiking in one of the nearby scenic areas of Tennessee. • Tent Row: Three-Day Canoe Trip on Center Hill Lake, started in 1972. Since 2009, camp has rented a large houseboat on which the girls can sleep in case of thunderstorms. With slides and decks, it also adds to the fun. • 2nd Year Seniors: Cumberland Caverns Overnight, including a not-for-tourists “wild tour.” The cave trips started in the mid-70s and were later designated as the trip for this age group. • 1st Year Seniors: Guided whitewater raft trip on the Ocoee River, which includes three Class IV rapids. • 2nd Year Intermediates: Hike at Fall Creek Falls State Park (beginning in 2012); previously at the Angel Falls overlook in the Big South Fork National Park. • 1st Year Intermediates: Raft trip on the Hiwassee River (beginning in 1998). • Sixth Graders in Junior: Canoe trip on the Caney Fork River, added in 2015, for the oldest campers in Junior. • Junior campers take Free Day trips to nearby Cumberland Cove — enjoying bluffs, boulders, waterfalls and the icy “Nakanawa Pool” where Colonel Rice took girls in the 1920s.

133

Celebrating 75 In 1994, Nakanawa had her 75th birthday … with an anniversary logo and flag and a weekend-long celebration in July. Hundreds of alumnae returned for the festivities, and many brought handmade quilt squares, later made into four beautiful Anniversary Quilts that hang in the Library and the Wigwam. A special anniversary Operetta combining characters from decades of past Operettas was performed and dedicated to three longtime Junior Head Counselors: Katie Moise, Casey Fisher and Louise Boteler. Hundreds of alumnae returned for Nakanawa’s 75th Anniversary festivities, and many brought handmade quilt squares, later made into four beautiful Anniversary Quilts that hang in the Library and the Wigwam, two of which are shown here.

135 Built in honor of the 75th Anniversary was a new building in Junior, the Margaret H. Matens Nature Hut. Ann and Pepe decided to continue their focus on nature education and built a facility and dock by the lake next to Arts & Crafts. This designated space for aquariums, terrariums, nets, fishing poles, bunnies, turtles and snakes created an idyllic destination for girls drawn to the natural world. Pictured on the porch of the new building are, from left, Head Counselor Mop Queen and Head of Nature Margaret Matens. Campers enjoy holding a variety of animals, including Elvis, the California King Snake who had a 17-year tenure at camp.

The First 15 Years of Leaders From left, Senior Head Counselors During their first 15 years as Directors (1981-1995), Ann Jan Bell Harper and Pepe credited much of their success to the strong, stable TR ’66 and Lou leadership provided by Casey Fisher and Louise Boteler in Junior Lloveras with and by Lou Lloveras and Jan Bell Harper in Senior. After Wally longtime counselor Hall retired as Senior Head Counselor in 1973, two people served Emily Henry in this capacity for the next 34 years: Lou and Jan. Lou was Head McMahon TR ’71 Counselor almost continuously from 1974 to 1991. Jan became Head Counselor in 1992 and for the next 17 years she led Senior Ringing Praise for Jan Bell Harper When Jan Bell was in Tent Row in Camp — both the Two-Week Intermediate and Four-Week 1996, she was chosen Lady of the Cup. sessions. In Junior, Casey’s reign was from 1972-1985; Louise’s Jan Bell, the niece of Eloise Mounger, first came as Necklaces and earrings made of camp from 1988-1992. a camper in 1963. She returned over the decades in charms and wood carving were one of numerous roles: counselor of Archery, Riflery and Jan’s trademarks. Her “winning smile” Casey Fisher had already been Head of Junior Camp for 10 years Canoeing, Dining Hall Hostess, Tent Row Mama was another. when Ann and Pepe became Directors, and she continued at this post and Head Counselor. During her 17 year stint as through 1985. After a few summers of traveling, she returned to help Senior Head Counselor, Jan was known for her out in Senior Camp in the early ’90s … and continued every year efficiency, calmness and kindness and for her high through 2016. expectations of every camper and counselor. She was responsible for many innovations. It was her idea to have Tent Row girls arrive early to work on projects before the session starts. As TR Mama, she began making Devotion booklets for each girl and continued to pass on old favorites such as “Little Eyes Are Watching” and “The Fall of Freddy the Leaf.” A caterer by profession, she initiated breakfast buffets, popcorn at the Slide Show and upscale food for the 3-Day Canoe Trip. Her wood carvings included Prom Rings and the wooden Ns given to Tent Row at Trophy Night. Like the other famous camp bell, Jan is an embodiment of Nakanawa.

The Loss of Louise 137 In her 25 years at camp, Louise Boteler TR ’70 won more medals A year after Louise’s death, a floating dock anchored in the and made contributions to more areas of camp than can be middle of the lake was dedicated in her memory. Because of recorded. From a four-generation Nakanawa family, Louise was her aquatic contributions to both Senior and Junior, a raft an excellent swimmer, a Blade and a top marksman. But her real in the center of the lake she loved is a fitting tribute and it talent was in music. When she was in Tent Row, she canoed across remains a favorite camper destination. Pictured below at the the lake daily to play the piano for the Operetta. As ten-year Head 1995 dedication: from left, Margaret Matens, Mop Queen, of the Waterfront in Senior, she started a Synchronized Swimming Laura Boteler Butchko TR ’76, Ann, Pepe, Louise’s mother program, created the Shark award for distance swimmers and Deanie Hart Boteler, who was Lady of the Cup in 1944, encouraged dozens of campers on the path to Shark, Dolphin sister Alice Boteler Layman TR ’69 with her daughter Laura or Whale. She turned the Triple Whale recognition of Courtney Layman Lazarevich TR ’03, and father Charles Boteler. Stapp Kamminer TR ’76 into a never-to-be-forgotten celebration. She was invaluable in shaping the Octet a capella group, the Operettas and the entire sphere of music at camp. She was also a beloved TR ’Mama. In 1988 she returned as Head Counselor of Junior and of the fledgling Two-Week Camp. In 1993, Louise celebrated her 40th birthday at the Waterfront with every Junior taking part. Soon after camp ended, she was diagnosed with cancer. She died in 1994 at the age of 41. Louise’s legacy continues as family members follow her to camp. Two nieces were in Tent Row ’17, and a third niece, Martha Layman McKechnie TR ’06, became Head of Junior Camp in 2016. «« Louise, at far left, is pictured at the Bungling Brothers Circus as a young counselor with sisters Laura and Alice. Louise’s “camp career path” covered all the bases — from Junior camper to Tent Row to Head of the Waterfront in Senior to TR ’Mama to Head Counselor in Junior.

Camp’s Caretakers … in the Kitchen, the Office, the Shop Over the course of a century, camp has been blessed with a dedicated group of men and women who have served as cooks, office staff, bookkeepers, grooms, nightwatchmen and caretakers of the buildings and grounds. When Ann and Pepe began as Directors, Bill Tays led a group of six seasoned maintenance men, including Bunk Hall, Bob Brown and Mark Hall. Leon Shannon was well established as Head Cook in the Senior kitchen, where he had worked since 1953. Ruby Mathias was hired to run the Junior kitchen in 1999 and has continued for 20 years. When Mitch retired, secretaries Winona Dunbar and Peggie Parrott as well as bookkeeper Eloise Mounger continued to work for camp. After the departures of Eloise and Winona, Annette Hall became bookkeeper, Messena Davis took on the job of camp secretary and Peggie focused on camper travel. This crew of year-round employees is an integral part of the Nakanawa family, taking care of aspects of camp that are essential and often uncelebrated. Leon Shannon, who has worked in the Senior kitchen for close to 70 years, is as much an Ruby Mathias was a cook at the Pleasant Hill School when she institution at camp as his famous fried chicken and scratch biscuits. Leon is shown here with became the Junior Camp Chef in 1999. The youthful mother Assistant Cook Michelle Daniels and a group of international staff who work in the kitchen. of four, now a grandmother, Ruby lives on the Junior Camp Road, less than a mile from camp. Her sons have all assisted in the kitchen over the years. Ruby is a vital force in Junior, admired for her spunky ways and delicious meals. Ruby’s specialties include meatloaf and “dirt pie” with gummy worms.

139 After Bill Tays left camp to join the Sheriff ’s Department in 1986, Bunk Hall, at left, and Bob Brown assumed the maintenance duties. Both started at camp when they were teenagers and Carson was Superintendent, and the two continued oversight of camp’s buildings and grounds for the next 30 years. A fixture in the camp Annette Hall, at left, began office since she was working at camp in 1982. in college, Eloise For many years she and her Mounger became full- husband Mark lived in the time bookkeeper after Scooter retired in 1976. house by the Senior gate. Eloise lived at the Big Annette, who has logged nearly House for years until 40 summers at Nakanawa, keeps she moved to Pleasant Hill in the mid-80s to track of inventory, invoices, and counselor contracts. Her be a companion and office partner for many years, caregiver for Mitch. Messena Elliot Davis, was hired Eloise is remembered for her steady, kind, in 1998 and lived with her unassuming presence; family in the blue house by the her unparalleled work gate for 15 years. Messena had ethic; and her selfless dedication to Mitch as oversight of the office during she became debilitated. the transition from “rock and Eloise’s devotion to chisel” to computers, taking on Mitch was a lesson in responsibility for camp’s website and database. In 2015, Messena true friendship. had a third child and left camp to In 1959 Winona spend more time with her family. Bohannon Dunbar was hired as Mitch’s secretary. For 25 years Winona answered phone calls, typed letters in green ink, mailed out newsletters and kept track of the large correspondence. Peggie Parrot, shown here, joined the office staff as a young bride in 1964. A dynamo of enthusiasm and efficiency. Peggie has organized the travel of every camper to and from camp for four decades.

High Adventure Climbing, zipping, bouldering, swinging on a giant swing … Nakanawa entered a world of high adventure in 1996 and never looked back. Long before indoor climbing walls were popular, camp decided to construct a 30-foot-tall climbing wall with a zipline over an arm of the lake. Pepe recognized that these activities provide girls with an opportunity to challenge themselves in a new sport, one not offered in most schools. With counselor Mike Cardin’s expertise and assistance, the program expanded over the next ten years to include two Low Ropes Courses, two Giant Swings, a Bouldering Wall in Junior (inside the Playhouse) and an indoor Climbing Wall in Senior (in the Pavilion). Senior campers sign up for Wall classes, all Juniors take the Bouldering Wall class, and many campers get to zip for fun on Free Days. Counselors who teach or assist with climbing activities come to Pre-Camp early to receive professional certification. Climbing the tower …. and zipping down!

141 The Zipline, at top, begins near the Doctor’s Lodge in Senior Camp and ends at Valkyrie Point. Girls learn to climb using the wall on the Zipline tower and the Climbing Wall at the Pavilion, shown at right.

“The years won’t seem the same and yet, Your loving memories we’ll ne’er forget …” As you walk around camp, you will notice scores of memorial plaques. Family members and Tent Row groups have chosen to remember their loved ones in a permanent way at Nakanawa. The list of memorials — far too long to print — includes flagpoles, porches, diving boards, gazebos, sundials, trees, benches, flower beds, picnic tables, rocking chairs and canoes. Each bears the name of a person whose memory is treasured at camp. Nakanawa is also the resting place for the ashes of some for whom this spot was hallowed — including Elisabeth Mitchell, Lou Lloveras and Betty “Mark” Markham. In 2011 the gazebo, above, near the lake in Senior was given in honor of Tent Row 2011 by the counselor staff. The bronze eagle by the Library, upper right, was erected in memory of Pepe’s father, O.A. “Duke” Perron. The gazebo at the Junior Waterfront, right, was a 2017 gift from Tent Row ’75 in memory of Ayn Cabaniss.

143 Lou Lloveras: Marking 50 Years In 2003, Carol “Lou” Lloveras was honored on the occasion of her 50th year at camp, just two years before she died at the age of 77. A young P.E. teacher from New Orleans, Lou first arrived at camp in 1951. In 1964 she was assigned to Cabin 4, beginning a tradition which would stretch until 1976. It was considered a special honor to have Lou as a counselor, and those who lived in her cabin were touched in ways that never left them. Lou was an able athlete and a consummate teacher. As longtime Head of Tennis, she often said: “We care more about what a tennis racquet can do for a girl than what a girl can do with a tennis racquet.” She focused on finding ways in which each girl could shine. She made each person who came to know her feel unique. Writing poems was one of Lou's hallmarks. Over the years she composed poems for special occasions and for her bunkies. Her most well known composition is the “Silver Letter Girl” song. After Wally Hall retired, Lou served as Head Counselor from 1974 to 1991, missing only a handful of summers. For many of those years she was Tent Row Mama, too. Lou stood for what was right and fair and kind; she had the respect of all the counselors on her staff. Though physical reminders of Lou are found in many places around camp, the most indelible marks she left are those etched in campers’ hearts. During her final decade at camp, Lou taught Archery, assisted Jan and lent her listening ear to all in need. In the photo below, she shares a sparkler with young Jamie Perron, Ann and Pepe’s daughter. To honor Lou’s 50th anniversary, a collection Lou, shown here with Mitch after Mitch retired, of devotions was compiled and dedicated to spanned all but five years of Mitch’s time as her. She was given a plaque with a golden Director and the first 20 of Ann and Pepe’s. Never railroad spike from the Tennessee Central married, Lou treated the campers as her children Railroad. In 2006, one of Lou’s favorite spots, and was delighted when the daughters and beside the lake by Cabin 4, was christened granddaughters of her former bunkies began to “Devotion Point” in her memory. The new appear as campers. Archery Hut bears a plaque showing that the building was named in Lou’s honor in 2012. In the Library rests Lou’s Treasure Chest, a trunk full of photos, cards and memorabilia collected by Sally Schultz Swenk TR ’73.

New Traditions Replacing Old For years Senior Commissary Queen Casey Fisher, above, The end-of-camp schedule gradually changed to accommodate the increased number of visitors. A slate of activities is planned for parents who are invited to final meals. The Junior Banquet handed out apples and smiles is held the second-to-last night and honors the 6th Graders. In Senior, the Banquet, still planned at Apple Break, the equivalent by alternating teams, is held at lunchtime on the last day. Parents in Junior enjoy the Operetta and activity exhibitions. In Senior, Fine Arts Day showcases girls in Handbells, Choir, Dance and of Junior Milk Break. In the Drama. Senior Trophy Night mid-’80s, Ann and Pepe stopped has relocated to the Kiosk to accommodate the crowd. charging girls for snacks in the Commissary. They also Ann and Pepe enjoy having eliminated all extra fees (Riding, campers and counselors as guests Catholic Church, Arts & Crafts at the Big House. They host a TR materials, special trips, etc.) Pizza Party, Ice Cream Socials for Tuition is now all-inclusive. each team, dinner and Coke floats for inspection winners and the Counselor Initiation party ... with the time-honored menu: BBQ chicken, frozen fruit salad and Leon’s big biscuits. In 1997 Tiny Lott McPhillips started the “6th Grade Doll” tradition at the Banquet. Cabin counselors make likenesses of the 6th graders that reflect the accomplishments of each. As the end-of-camp schedule has been changed, the Banquet in Junior is held at night before Final Rock Meetings. In Senior it has moved to noon on the last day. Pictured here are girls showing off their favors at the 2011 Banquet.

145 Ann and Pepe’s 25th Anniversary: “Through Dedication without Rest” In 2006, Nakanawa T.I.E.S. (Together In Endowment and Service) alumni organization was founded. The first T.I.E.S. undertaking was the Portrait Project, commissioning a painting of Ann and Pepe to mark their 25th anniversary as Directors. In July, both camps gathered on the Crows Nest for a celebratory counselor church service, followed by the unveiling of the portrait. It hangs in the Library along with a portrait of founding Director Colonel Rice and one of Mitch, which was dedicated on her 25th anniversary. The portrait of Ann and Pepe, painted by former Nakanawa camper Alexandra Wetmore of Chattanooga, A Song for Ann and Pepe: hangs in the Library. Hundreds of former campers, counselors and friends contributed to the T.I.E.S. Portrait “A Legacy No Wealth Can Buy” Project, showing gratitude for Ann and Pepe’s “continued guardianship of the treasure that is Nakanawa.” Eight decades now since camp began From Colonel Rice’s mission; Passed down to Mitch and on to you … The torch of camp tradition; Though change has come & progress new, What matters stays, the heart holds true; Our camp is here because of you, Your love and care and vision.

A 30-Year Tradition: In 2008, Pepe’s favorite poems were Pepe’s Church Services and Poems collected into a book which is a favorite of campers and counselors. The book was For the first few summers after Mitch retired, she continued to give the dedicated to Diana Darling Phillips TR church services. By 1984, Pepe was ready for his first service. Thirty years ’04 and Rebecca Darling TR ’07 who had later, campers can’t imagine Nakanawa without Pepe’s unique, themed recently experienced a family tragedy. churches. He works on his sermons during the winter, researching poems that underscore his chosen theme. Over the decades he has done services on cooperation, the Wigwam, trees, stars, Lou Lloveras, Colonel Rice, spiders and webs, snowflakes, cookies, quilts, colors and guardian angels. The services often include camper participation, and most include props or a display, notably a quilt. Another of Pepe’s trademarks is reading poems. On opening night, at Trophy Night and other key times, he shares poems that deliver a valuable message. Pepe’s unique church services combine beautiful music, poetry, stories and Ann, who takes part in the services, is pictured (above) in front of a quilt that illustrates quotations — all woven around a central theme. the summer’s church theme. For a service on “quilts,” Ann found a local woman, Miss Julia Ranny, to make a quilt to display. Since then, she has made a quilt based on each year’s theme (below), and these are displayed in the Library.

147 The Trail As part of the trail project, Ann and Pepe named the seven Around the Lake major creeks that flow into the lake, each creating a long cove of the same name. Some had names that had been in use In 2007, a major project was completed — a four- for decades; others were named for wildlife or wildflowers mile trail around Lake Aloaloa. Years ago Carson associated with the spot: Osprey Cove, Lady Slipper Trail, built a wooden catwalk across one arm of the lake Bluebird Branch, Deer Creek. near Junior. Using that bridge and several old logging roads, it was possible to walk from Junior to the Dam and then to Senior. Louise Boteler remembered making this trek, and she loved to offer the adventure on Free Day in the early ’90s. However, after the old wooden catwalk rotted away, the loop hike was no longer passable. Pepe and Mike Cardin spent months constructing the new trail system, which follows the shoreline of the lake whenever possible, building bridges to span the wet areas. “Mitch’s Trail,” linking Junior to Senior, had been named in 2006 in memory of Mitch. The remaining sections were named for the other three Directors: the “Colonel Rice Trail” begins near the Senior Office and ends at the Dam; the “Pepe Trail” goes from the Dam halfway to Junior; the “Ann Trail” is the last section, ending in Junior. This trail and other trails at camp are marked with directional signs and are maintained and used year-round. The Trail Around the Lake offers great nature hikes. Juniors become a member of the Trailblazer Club for completing the four-mile loop. Older campers and counselors use it for their daily runs. It has been a great addition for visitors, such as the T.I.E.S group, who are able to enjoy the wildflowers in May.

Camp Is Focused on the Environment, Naturally 112 solar panels installed on the Junior Council House and Senior Barn produce 27 kilowatts of electricity, Lake Aloaloa is home to more than Dolphins and Whales. Bullfrogs, turtles and which meets 60% of camp’s total electric needs. fish abound; and otters play near the docks. Bald Eagles, Ospreys, Great Blue Herons and Sandhill Cranes have been seen along the shoreline. Over a hundred Canada Geese live year-round in Dead Tree Cove, and campers wake up to their early morning honking. Wally Hall’s bird list includes 60 species she spotted at camp. Rabbits and deer graze in the meadows, and skunks raise babies every summer along the Senior Camp Road. Beavers have moved into the lake, and Nature classes explore their lodges and swim in a pool created by a beaver dam. Raccoons, skunks, opossums, red and gray foxes, coyotes and bobcats hunt in the camp woods at night, and campers learn to identify their tracks. Wildlife enjoy the pristine, spring-fed lake, and Nakanawa’s 1,100 acres of forests and fields, where no hunting is allowed. In 2010 the first Bald Eagles were spotted at camp near Carson’s Point, and now sightings are frequent. In 2010 a vegetable garden was added beside A Leader in Environmental Stewardship the Nature Hut to give Junior campers hands- on experience with composting, weeding and Nakanawa is a leader in protecting the environment through sustainable growing tomatoes, peppers, squash, corn, measures and nurturing “green thinking.” Pepe is deservedly proud beans and more. The annual “Garden Party” of the environmental strides camp has made, including: gives Ann and Pepe a chance to encourage • Solar panels installed on the roof of the Senior Barn in 2011 and the campers’ interest in gardening. Junior Council House in 2012 that now produce 60% of camp’s total annual electricity needs • The camp now recycles 100% of its cardboard, glass, metal, plastic and cooking oil • The new “Green House” storage building uses clear panels for light • New on-demand water heaters lower the consumption of natural gas • 30 solar-powered fans help cool cabins, Egypt and the Dining Hall • A separate water system from Lake Aloaloa provides water for toilets, showers and floral gardens • An outdoor wood burning furnace, using wood from downed trees, heats the Library and Big House

21st Century Leadership 149 Being Head Counselor means a litany of lists: torn screens, days off schedules and homesick campers. It means putting out fires and solving problems, boosting morale and building community. A Head Counselor has to stay up late and rise early, keep track of every camper’s issues from bed wetting to food allergies, make all the moving parts align while watching the weather forecast. Nakanawa has been blessed with leaders who balance camp tradition with changing times, who lead with laughter and integrity. The “Queen” of Junior and Queen’s Row In 1954 Margaret Moffitt, a tall lanky girl from Oklahoma City, arrived at camp with the nickname “Mop.” After five years as a camper she returned as a counselor in Junior — teaching Tennis, Games, Canoeing and serving as Head of the Waterfront. After her daughter Robin became a camper, Mop Queen returned to be Head Counselor in Junior from 1995-2004. Mop’s decade of leadership was a time of strong “Ever Returning” counselors, called ERs in Junior. The ERs served as activity heads and provided backup for the cabin counselors. After retiring as Head of Junior, Mop spent the next 11 years as Senior Dining Hall Hostess and was a mainstay of the Queens Row Crew. Mop has been a key T.I.E.S. supporter — organizing reunions, spearheading the Nakanawa cookbook project with Beth Tanner TR ’69 and Jane McGriff TR ’71, and coordinating the selection of archival photographs for this camp history. Shining Shelly Dr. Carl Duer, a Crossville doctor with daughters Shelly and Libby, seemed made-to-order to Mitch. She persuaded him to be camp doctor and start his girls as campers. When Shelly Duer Landau TR ’75 returned as a counselor in 2000 with three little daughters in tow, it was a stroke of fortune for Nakanawa. Shelly, the Amazon Captain in Junior and Senior, is the mother of three Amazon Captains: Elise TR ’07, Caroline TR ’08 and Paige TR ’10. Shelly taught Nature for seven years and then served as Assistant Head Counselor or Head Counselor in Junior from 2007 to 2016. Shelly is one of the three founders of T.I.E.S. and has been instrumental in guiding camp into the digital world. A whirlwind of efficiency hidden behind a winning smile, Shelly continues to be a valued resource for Junior Camp and for Ann and Pepe. All Hail … Karen Hale Karen Rathgeber Hale, an Amazon from Houston, was chosen Lady of the Cup in 1980 by a counselor staff who recognized Karen’s deep devotion to Nakanawa. Over 35 years later, that devotion has not wavered. After many summers teaching Riding, Sailing, Softball and Wall classes, Karen became Head Counselor for Two-Week Camp in Junior. In 2007, she succeeded Jan Bell as Head of Senior, a position she has continued for a decade. Karen, valued for her upbeat personality, always takes time to listen. She works to ensure camaraderie between the Junior and Senior staffs. An avid outdoors enthusiast, she encourages a love of nature and adventure. Karen brings a sense of fun and playfulness into Senior Camp to counteract the pressures that fill the lives of today’s teenagers. She values the transformative nature of camp and the role it plays in shaping the character of young women. Carin’ Karen Parrish Karen Barlow Parrish TR ’81 followed her outstanding mother to camp — Karen Haun, Amazon Captain and Lady of the Cup in 1956. Daughter Karen has blazed her own impressive trail to become one of the key leaders of camp. She spent six years as a camper and four on the Senior Waterfront. In 2006 she returned to camp, bringing along her daughter, Maggie Parrish TR ’12. Karen was Head of Games in Junior and Canoeing in Senior. From 2010-2015 she was Head Counselor in Junior. In 2016, she made the decision to move from Texas to Mayland to become the year round Digital Media and Communication Specialist for camp. Karen is one of Nakanawa’s greatest ambassadors, as evidenced by the 23 members of her family who have been campers or counselors. In her new position she markets camp and works with families as they begin their Nakanawa experience. Karen said, “I have loved each of my roles — camper, counselor, parent, Head Counselor and now living and working at Nakanawa full time. I strive to be an advocate and champion for all of the young women who are fortunate enough to get to come to Nakanawa.”

Twenty-Year Counselors Ann and Pepe are indebted to a small core of counselors who have been on staff for more than two decades and who continue to share their expertise in teaching and their love of Nakanawa... Kim Duke: One of the longest-tenured Val Lambert: In 1971, Val counselors with close to 50 summers, Kim Tryniecki, a college student first came to camp in 1962 to set up the new from Louisiana, was hired Beverly Green Memorial Library. With a as a Tennis counselor in degree in Library Science, Kim was perfect Junior and continued in for the job. Later she reinvigorated the Arts that role for a decade. In & Crafts program in Junior. Kim brought 1994 she rejoined the staff with her two daughters: Kim Ann Freeman as Val Lambert along with TR ’66 and Karen Freeman Coppa TR her daughter Brandi and became Head of Archery. After nearly 30 years, Val is a ’71, who both became counselors. In 1980 linchpin of Junior Camp and the leader of the Krewe of Koochies. She initiated a Kim married Dr. Albert Duke, who taught tradition of making wooden crosses to give to the 6th Graders at Valkyrie Vespers. Riflery for 10 years. In 1990 she resurrected Val’s commitment to Archery has inspired many, and the new Archery Hut is the unused kilns in Senior and began named in her honor. teaching Pottery classes. Kim has been Alice Layman: At age 12, Alice Boteler was the accompanist for the Operetta. Over a guiding force in Arts & Crafts in both 50 years later, she’s still playing camp’s piano and sharing her talents. After Tent camps, and her decades of devotion have Row in 1969, Alice headed Glee Club and directed Operettas for six years. When made her a beloved camp institution. her daughters— Laura Layman Lazarevich TR ’03 and Martha Layman McKechnie Laura Ellis: A physical education teacher TR ’06 — were camp age, Alice resumed her role as from Mobile, Laura arrived in Junior in Junior’s musical director, a position she held almost 1994 and became Head of Games, a position continuously for 17 years. She returned in 2017 as she has held for 20 years. She first came to part of a staff led by Head Counselor Martha, her Two-Week with daughter Jill Ellis Cardwell younger daughter. The Botelers’ musical talents TR 01 and son Cameron, one of the few and four generations of camp connections are boys to live and work in Junior. Her camp unparalleled at Nakanawa. cabin has been christened “Ellis Island.” Tiny McPhillips: Catherine “Tiny” Lott TR ’69 In Four-Week Camp, Laura has provided started camp in 1965 at age eight ... and was strong leadership for Archery, Tumbling, so tiny she played Tinkerbell in the Operetta. Wall and Games classes. Ten years ago, she An outstanding swimmer, she later became a began writing original Council Ring legends Waterfront — stories that underscore camp values. counselor. B.J. Jenkins: A teacher from Madisonville, In 1990 she Tennessee, B.J. started her almost 30-year returned with tenure as a young Swimming counselor under daughters Mitch. In the mid-80s Ann and Pepe invited Sarah McPhillips Fountain TR ’98 and her to return as Head of the Waterfront in Catherine McPhillips Inge TR ’03. After Senior, a position she has continued for 25 overseeing the Junior Waterfront for 10 years, years. She spends her free time kayaking and Tiny became Head of Glee Club in 2008 and carving tiny Sharks, Dolphins and Whales and continues to direct the Operettas and oversee cedar Ns for Tent Row girls. She is known for Nakanawa’s singing programs. Tiny is a her commitment to safety on the dock, her guardian of all that is traditional at camp — excellence as a teacher of Life Saving and her Form Swimming, Valkyrie Vespers, posture or memorable fires at Council Ring. table manners.