Hootenanny and Hula
(Richie Strell)
Just like Kinderland of old, we broke the rules. No, not a late night pantie or
bloomers raid this time. It was the 10 p.m. Asilomar curfew we ignored, with our
late night musical jam sessions. Gerry Tenney ripped on mandolin and his son
Noah rocked on electric keyboard. Marty Itzkowitz strummed his guitar while I
chimed in on harmonica and spoons. Although the days at The Camp Kinderland West
Coast Reunion were filled with wondrous nostalgia, schmoozing and music, it was
still not quite enough to satisfy over 40 years away from Sylvan Lake.
Therefore, all signs of exhaustion were put aside and we played and sang until 2
a.m. each night.
If the late night hootenannies weren’t enough to make the 1,000 mile round-trip
schlep worth it, then perhaps the incredible people, the fantasy location and
the crystal clear weather helped to make it a once in a lifetime event. Learning
about how people’s lives had changed from their camper and counselor days was of
particular interest. Perhaps the most glaring example was Benjy Wengrofsky. A
nice Jewish boy from the Bronx now deeply entrenched in Hawaiian culture, music
and dance.
To add to the excitement, the only surfing spot on the Monterey Peninsula was
right out front in the cool Pacific waters. Next time I’ll know to bring my
surfboard and wetsuit. Who could ask for more? Kinderland, in antique Arts and
Craft style bungalows, with surfing waves, good food and late night music! I
wouldn’t have changed a thing …….well maybe if Benji could have done a little
Hula.