Experiences of a rural DJ

I do much volunteer work throughout the year, which includes a third of all my DJ work. My favorite community organization is the Cheshire Y. With offices based in Swanzey, this non-traditional YMCA operates Camp Takodah in Richmond, a day camp called Hornets Nest, New England and American Heritage Tours & other amazing programs in the area.

I began my experiences at Camp Takodah in 1987 as a Cherokee in the original Cabin 17 with a Greek cabin leader, Nick and my second years was with a New Yorker named Troy.

I returned to camp as a counselor in 1995 as a cabin leader for the Penacooks. All of my memories of the camp, Cass Pond, Elwell Chapel, and all of the wonderful events are among some of my favorites. I stayed the extra week for mini-camp that year, working with many neighbors that volunteer to help younger kids with the introduction to camp. It was at that time I learned how greatly we could affect the whole world by the amazing things that happen locally...

There were two young boys who had recently moved to the US to seek refuge from the Bosnian war. One of them was placed in my cabin and spoke very little english. To see him become integrated into the activities of the camp throughout the week was amazing and heart warming. One evening we had a strong thunderstorm and I had to comfort him while explaining that it was weather and not an attack. At the week's end, his parents thanked me graciously for having taken such good care of their son, while he thanked me by giving me a Republic of Bosnia flag.

Many summers I spent at fun recreation programs provided by Fitzwilliam & Troy, but the amount of activities & abilities one can learn at camp is indescribable, & often not covered under municipal liability (boating, archery, etc).

Tomorrow night (Wed. April 6th) I am very happy to be hosting karaoke at the Fitzwilliam Inn. Starting at 7 PM, this family friendly event will provide opportunities for people to learn more about Camp Takodah, while we collect donations to provide scholarships for local children to attend camp this summer.

At that time, we shall also be providing information about the upcoming 8th Annual Bob Ferranti Memorial Golf Tournament, which is being held on Friday, May 13th at Bretwood Golf Course in Keene, NH. Not only are we looking for singles, pairs, triples & full teams for the tournament, but company & family sponsorship. For as little as $30, sponsorship proceeds help fund these youth services. This year, we have an impressive donor who has agreed to match every Gold Sponsor we get - $1000. That sponsorship covers the cost for two teams plus free carts with the company's name!

Please take a moment & check out the Cheshire YMCA website, sign up for playing or sponsoring the Golf Tournament & join our Cause on Facebook.

SharePeople often ask me how I can spend so much time & money helping these important charities & I think it all comes down to each day's decisions. Of all of the benefits I do, I consider this organization one of the most dear to my heart. The people of the Cheshire Y have been part of my life for twenty-five years & I am very happy to be able to give back to the community by helping them and the hundreds of children they affect each year.

tomorrow's festivities at 7 PM.

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April 2011

The Cheshire Y