Sunday, July 24th dawned bright and beautiful. There was something different about the day; the electricity was so strong it was almost palpable. REUNION 50 was about to begin!

Everywhere you looked were signs of the anticipated event. Banners flew proclaiming the fifty years of Tyler Hill Camp, memory books were positioned strategically to be filled with alumni’s special thoughts of the past. Even the CIT’s of today were anxiously awaiting the arrival of those who came before them.

As the first cars began to stream in, the slamming of car doors intermingled with shouts of joy and recognition as adults of all ages, reuniting with old bunkmates, became the campers that they once were. They came with strollers and baby backpacks. There were even three very pregnant former campers! Bobby Brenner belted out a few bars from “Pippin”, the show that brought him his fifteen minutes of fame, while Nancy Baker promptly turned her hat backwards, making her particularly recognizable! Strange sounds were heard coming from the Social Hall, as old pictures were found and laughed at, and waiter’s plaques admired and reminisced about. And yes, Stacey Shrednick, we DO know who you are!

Allen, a.k.a. “Big Al” welcomed everyone home, and proclaimed the day officially begun. Until the barbeque began, campers of the past strolled down memory lane and in and out of bunks. Lunch brought more laughing and memories; Beth Kreinces even brought her album from 198- who-knows-when! Shelly Schneider, Artie Sunshine, and Paul Harnick kept the crowds laughing with their hilarious anecdotes.

The afternoon continued with a performance by Ron Dagan filled with oldies but goodies. Campers from now and then certainly enjoyed the music, but especially the chance to talk and remember the past. At the show’s end, Allen began a new Tyler Hill tradition; the Tyler Hill Hall of Fame. Twenty members were inducted, some fortunately still with us, and some part of the Tyler Hill family of the past. Always forever in our hearts and minds.

The reunion itself may be over, but the memories will always remain. Many old relationships were rekindled, and plans made for future meetings. Campers then, adults today, sharing memories together forever. Thank you Tyler Hill Camp, for helping us to hold on to what is important.