THE HISTORY OF YMCA CAMP SURF The First 50 Years: 1969-2019
by KEITH FARGO and MARK THOMPSON
The YMCA of San Diego County is dedicated to improving the quality of human life and to helping all people realize their fullest potential as children of God through the development of the spirit, mind and body.
Summer is not a season,   it’s a state of mind.
- Dick Mason
TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE FOREWORD
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THE FOUNDERS
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THE LAND
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GETTING STARTED 1969-1979
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NAVIGATING CHALLENGING TIMES 1980-1989
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SETTING A COURSE 1990-1999
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DEVELOPING A STRONG FOUNDATION 2000-2009
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THE NEW FACE OF CAMP 2010-2019
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FIFTY YEARS OF STEWARDSHIP
92 Authors Photo Index Credits
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This book is dedicated to the amazing work of visionary volunteers, generous donors, and mission focused staff that have made YMCA Camp Surf what it is today.
FOREWORD
Pipe Dream. Even an article in the San Diego Union Tribune scoffed at the idea of creating a YMCA beach camp on Navy property. It was an innovative solution to expanding the Y’s service to the youth of San Diego, yet there were obstacles to overcome. Miraculously, a small group of dedicated people secured the first 5-year license for the camp in 1969. For the next 50 years both volunteers and staff navigated challenges in funding, facility, programming, and the unique consequences of being located on federal land. It is a storied history of people, place, and programs that collectively create the adventure now known as YMCA Camp Surf.
PEOPLE YMCA Camp Surf was conceived by a camp committee of the YMCA of San Diego County Board and three visionary camp founders: Captain William “Bill” Fargo, Valentine “Val” Hoy, and Richard “Dick” Mason. Captain Fargo and Val Hoy identified the property, obtained the first license, and hired Dick Mason to develop the programs and facility in the span of 24 months. This small, tenuous idea was able to overcome multiple attempts to convert the site to other uses. This was in no small part due to strong relationships and support from the United States Navy, 6 | Foreword
PLACE YMCA leadership, local community leaders, and influential politicians who saw the value and benefit YMCA Camp Surf offered to children and families in San Diego County. The unimaginable success over the years serves as a testament to the dedicated efforts of YMCA Camp Executive Directors, YMCA Camp Surf Directors, camp program directors, camp staff, and camp board members. Together, with generous donors and supporters, camp has enriched the lives of hundreds of thousands of campers and families by providing outdoor experiences in a unique environment.
There is no place quite like YMCA Camp Surf. Imagine 45 acres of coastal wetlands on the Pacific Ocean, nestled between Imperial Beach and Coronado, California. The site has been owned by two countries, various developers, and several federal entities going back to the 1800s. Coastal wetlands are precious ecosystems that have almost disappeared in California. Staff and volunteers understood the value and importance of protecting this unique environment. The camp’s Environmental Stewardship Plan and environmental education program were cornerstones put
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A Aerial photo of YMCA Camp Surf property looking south towards Mexico, early 1970’s. B Dick Mason addressing incoming campers in 1970. C Cabin photo at the barge.
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PROGRAMS in place to ensure the property was well cared for. The camp master site plan was designed to minimize environmental impact, and facility changes were planned carefully and built to ensure that they fit into the natural ocean environment and spirit of YMCA Camp Surf. Significant donor support for capital improvements over the last decade accelerated the pace of change, and forever changed the face of camp.
The foundation of YMCA Camp Surf has always been the variety and quality of programs it has been able to offer in such a unique location. Programs changed and expanded over the course of 5 decades, because of the entrepreneurial spirit of the people that worked there. The earlier summer camp programs had fewer but more specialized sessions that included exploring San Diego’s best surf breaks and a seven-day surf safari down the coast of Baja California. Over the years summer sessions were tailored to each age group, and provided activities that progressively
developed a camper’s skills. Weekend youth and family group camping on the beach have been a signature program for YMCA Camp Surf since the early 70’s. Major program expansion in the early 1990s included Outdoor Education, Leadership Development, Mission Service Projects, Community Outreach, and Day Camp. Program is the heart of YMCA Camp Surf and was responsible for creating a culture that values teamwork, adventure, selfreflection, passion and stewardship of the natural environment. Foreword | 7
THE FOUNDERS of YMCA Camp Surf ( S.U.R.F ) Three dedicated individuals played key roles in the establishment and early development of YMCA Camp Surf. The vision and drive of the camp founders served as a catalyst for the hard work and tireless efforts of the volunteers, community leaders, elected officials, generous donors, and YMCA staff teams that followed.
CAPTAIN WILLIAM “BILL” FARGO Captain Bill Fargo of the United States Navy was the driving force that identified and developed the plan for the YMCA to lease the oceanfront land just north of the small town of Imperial Beach. Captain Fargo volunteered to represent the Navy on the San Diego County YMCA Camp Committee because of his daughter’s connection to YMCA Camp Marston as a staff member. In 1967 at a Camp Committee meeting, Captain Fargo suggested developing a beach camp to help alleviate overcrowding at Camp Marston, the only San Diego YMCA camp at that time. The “Camp Surf” Committee was formed to explore the feasibility and location of a beach camp. An undeveloped 45-acre beachfront site located on the Naval Radio Receiving Facility (NRRF) north of Imperial Beach was identified. The Camp Committee convinced the command of the 11th Naval District that the YMCA could put this site to good use as a waterfront camp for youth-serving organizations in San Diego County. Captain Fargo retired from the U.S. Navy in 1969 as the Commanding Officer of Fleet Training Center San Diego. He continued his service on the YMCA Camp Committee and was instrumental in maintaining close ties between the YMCA and Navy, introducing Senior Naval Officers to YMCA Camp Surf and the value it brought to the community.
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VALENTINE “VAL” HOY JR.
RICHARD “DICK” MASON
Val Hoy was the Executive Director of the Camping Department for the YMCA of San Diego County during the formulation and founding of YMCA Camp Surf. He provided strong leadership and support that took YMCA Camp Surf from concept to reality. After leaving the YMCA in 1973, Val founded a construction company that was a major contributor to the construction of wooden cabins at both Camp Marston and Camp Surf in the late 1980s. Val never lost his close connection to the YMCA Camps, and served as Chairman of the Camp Board in 1989, the same committee that he was on 20 years earlier when not only Camp Surf, but Raintree Ranch was established. Val was a very busy Executive Director of Overnight Camping and an equally busy board chair.
Dick Mason served as Camp Director over two time periods, starting with the inception of the Camp in the early 1970s and returning in the late 1980s. Dick’s early leadership as Camp Director (1970-1975) focused on getting the Camp facilities and programs up and running. Both day and overnight programs were developed to serve Scout groups, teen church groups, and YMCA branch programs. During his second tour as Camp Director (1986-1995), spring and fall programs grew and programs that served schools started. Dick also improved and expanded camper facilities replacing Korean War era Quonset huts, with permanent wooden cabins. Dick Mason was a masterful planner, organizer and motivator who is credited with creating the Mariners, Watermen and Beachcombers village names and programs which remain to this day.
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THE LAND that became a camp
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The history of YMCA Camp Surf’s 45 acres is reflective of the history of coastal Southern California. It has changed hands many times, ultimately becoming federal land due to its strategic placement and the influence of wartime security. Several branches of the military have operated on it since that time. 2
SPANISH LAND GRANT Rancho Isla Peninsula de San Diego (Coronado, North Island, and the Silver Strand) was deeded to Pedro and Josefa Carrillo as a wedding gift in 1846. The land was quickly sold for $1,000 in silver. California became a state in 1850 and the land remained a cattle ranch into the late 1800s.
THE SPECULATIVE BOOM IN SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA Elisha Babcock and Hampton Story purchased the same land for $110,000 in 1885 to develop the City of Coronado, including the Hotel Del Coronado. They laid out what was called Coronado Heights at the south end of the Silver Strand. In 1887, they constructed tree-line streets, and hoped Coronado Heights would be as successful as their property development had been on the Island in Coronado. Unfortunately for Babcock and his associates, the land boom turned into a bust in 1888. Coronado Heights remained a vacant tract of tree-lined boulevards until it was purchased by John D. Spreckels, who unsuccessfully tried to sell the land to the State of California for use as a state a park.
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STRATEGIC MILITARY USE
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From 1920 to 1945, the property was a mixture of US Army and Navy facilities. The Navy leased part of the land from the owner at the time for a Radio Compass Base from 1920-1938 to aid in ship navigation. In the late 1930s, the Navy condemned the property, and took ownership, paying $55,000 for the land. In 1941, the Navy added Radio Directional Finding capabilities at the southern end of the base which is now the location of YMCA Camp Surf. In October 1942, the Army acquired ownership of the 412 acres at Coronado Heights through a “Declaration of Taking Action” for the purpose of erecting coastal defense batteries. The name of the property was changed to Fort Emory. Army land at Fort Emory was transferred back to the Navy in 1944 (119 acres) and 1950 (412 acres) as the need for coastal defense declined. The Navy designated the site as Fort Emory Amphibious Training Base and incorporated it as part of the Amphibious Training Station at Coronado. Construction started in 1944 and included 240 Quonset huts for enlisted housing, officer berthing, mess halls, a gate house, administrative headquarters, and utility buildings.
A COLD WAR MISSION
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A Wullenweber circular antenna was constructed on the site from 1963-1965 and the site was renamed the Naval Radio Receiving Facility (NRRF). The antenna was used to triangulate radio signals, vital during the Cold War. Known by locals as the “elephant cage,” it was removed in 2014 except for one small section to document its place in history.
NAVAL SPECIAL WARFARE FACILITIES The current name for the Navy property is the Silver Strand Training Complex (SSTC). In 2015 construction began on the Coastal Campus, a premier training facility for U.S. Special Operations Forces. When complete, Naval Special Warfare Group One, its four SEAL teams, logistic support unit, supporting operational organization and specialized training facilities will relocate from Coronado to the new Coastal Campus on SSTC-south. The YMCA Camp Surf lease is for 45 acres on the Southwestern corner of the SSTC, and serves as a buffer between the community of Imperial Beach and the new Naval Special Warfare Coastal Campus. The Land That Became A Camp ||| 11
GETTING STARTED 1969–1979
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PEOPLE It took a lot of people working together to develop an overnight camp. Dick Mason started as the first Director of YMCA Camp Surf in 1970 and was instrumental in developing the first programs and improving facilities. Val Hoy Jr. served as the Camp Executive Director from 1970-1973 and was responsible for turning around and growing the camp department from one to three camps. He was replaced by Fred L. Bradley, as Executive director who handed over the reins to John Marciano in 1977. John served until he was appointed as Senior Vice President of Facilities for the YMCA of San Diego County. Dick resigned as the YMCA Camp Surf Director after the summer of 1975 and was followed by James Baker. Board members also played key roles in starting YMCA Camp Surf. Captain Vincent L. Cassini Jr. relieved Captain Fargo as Commanding Officer Fleet Training Center in 1969. Captain Cassini joined the YMCA Camp Board as Chairman of the Camp Surf Committee that same year. Captain Fargo, who retired from the Navy in 1969, continued to support YMCA Camp Surf and Chaired the Camp Committee in 1974. During this period, the Camp Committee was comprised of well-known civic leaders that included Art Jacobs, George Carter Jessop Jr. , Milton Cheverton, Junior Todd, Tim Reed, Bob Johnson and several retired senior Naval Officers. 12 |||| Getting Started 1969-1979
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Getting Started 1969–1979 PLACE It is almost unbelievable that such an incredible beachfront location was found, and that starting a camp was possible! The Navy and YMCA signed a license agreement in May of 1969 to establish a waterfront camp on Navy-owned land at the NRRF, just north of Imperial Beach. Opening day ceremonies took place on June 21, 1969 to showcase the YMCA camp plans as a waterfront site for non-profit organizations. The camp hosted its first groups in August 1969. The official dedication of YMCA Camp S.U.R.F. (an acronym for “San Diego Unified Recreation Facility”) by Navy and community officials took place one year later, June 11, 1970. Although Navy involvement and support was evident
from the start, the new camp’s existence was threatened in 1972. The land leased to the YMCA was listed as “excess”, and the Nixon Administration was looking for excess military land to sell off. Thankfully, extensive lobbying by the County Board of Supervisors and Congressional leaders saved the property for the YMCA and youth of San Diego County. By 1977 the acronym was dropped, and the camp was known simply as YMCA Camp Surf. Most of the early facilities were excess military structures and equipment brought to YMCA Camp Surf and reassembled on site by Navy Seabees and volunteers. The first lifeguard tower and other buildings were moved to the camp from Border Field, a deactivated World War II Navy Airfield. 1
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Surplus 16-person military tents were obtained from the Marine Corps at Camp Pendleton, the Seabees poured concrete slabs for the tents, and they became the first permanent overnight sleeping facilities at YMCA Camp Surf. The Seabees also built the first permanent bathrooms. In 1974, Korean War Vintage Quonset huts were moved to the site and rebuilt on the slabs formerly occupied by the military tents. Art Jacobs, a Camp Committee Board Member, generously contributed to numerous facility improvements that included a new store, craft center, and most notably the kitchen and outdoor dining patio. The original kitchen, built in 1970, remained part of the McKinney Oceanfront Center built in 2014.
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“...the Seabees poured concrete slabs for the tents, and they became the first permanent overnight sleeping facilities at YMCA Camp Surf.�
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Getting Started 1969–1979 PROGRAMS A variety of programs were tried and tested in the unique ocean environment that YMCA Camp Surf offered. In 1969 and 1970, day use programs were offered, and the first overnight coed program launched in the summer of 1971. Only two 2-week sessions were offered that year. In 1972 Camp Director Dick Mason developed three programs. Resident Camp was for children age 8-11 which had a capacity of 60 boys and girls. Only five 6-day long sessions were offered that year. Watermen was for 12-16 year old boys and focused on surfing, mat surfing, skim boarding, swimming and sailing Catamarans in the surf. SCUBA was the only teen program for the 1972 season. It was for ages 16 and up and was offered by Commander Jim Williams, a NAUI dive instructor. In 1973 Resident Camp evolved to include ages 8-13 and Ocean Explorers was launched for ages 13-16. The Ocean Explorers program was 10 days long and included Hobie Cat sailing and day trips to popular skin diving and surfing spots along the San Diego and Orange County coast, even venturing into Baja California, Mexico. By 1975, YMCA Camp Surf offered all co-ed programs including nine 6-day sessions of Resident Camp for ages 8-12, five 10-day sessions of Waterman for ages 10-12, and three 17-day sessions of Ocean Explorers ages 13-16. In 1977, programs were expanded once again to provide even more specialized activities. A 10-day Waterman II for ages 10-12 was added to broaden and expand the skills learned in Waterman I. Additional programs included a 10-day Blue Water Sailing Camp using Hobie Cats in Glorietta Bay and in the surf, and a Surf & Skin-diving Camp. Finally, throughout the 1970’s, YMCA Camp Surf conducted Leadersin-Training programs that ranged from 10 to 21 days in length. The ages ranged from 14-18 and included youth counseling, first aid, swimming, lifeguarding, surfing, water sports, and skill development to teach camp activities. 3
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NAVIGATING CHALLENGING TIMES 1980–1989 PEOPLE YMCA Camp Surf went through a second major evolution starting in 1986 with the return of Dick Mason as the Camp Director. Since the YMCA only provided a small stipend, Dick also taught classes in the Recreation Department for Southwestern College. Thanks to Dick’s vision and tenacity, a strong programmatic bond developed between the two organizations that had a long-term positive impact on YMCA Camp Surf.
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Lowell Lindsay was hired as the Executive Director of YMCA Camping Services in 1987, replacing John Marciano who had held the position since 1977. John Balsamo was one of several YMCA Camp Surf Directors that worked with John Marciano and preceded Dick Mason’s return.
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Navigating Challenging Times 1980–1989 PLACE Camp was in trouble. The lease was reluctantly renewed in 1983 for 5 years by the Navy. They were not happy with the piecemeal construction and general deterioration of the camp property. The Navy Draft Master Plan described YMCA Camp Surf as financially struggling with no real plan to develop the space to effectively serve the greater San Diego community. The plan called for the YMCA to vacate the southwest corner of the training base once the plan was approved, so the Navy could begin construction on additional housing for active duty personnel.
In 1987, Lowell Lindsay requested and was granted another 5-year lease with the Navy. Around the same time that the lease was renewed, a task force of the YMCA of San Diego County Board developed a comprehensive plan for all three San Diego Y camps. The plan included a master site plan for each camp and a strategic plan focused on programs, fundraising, and capital improvements. Lowell Lindsey, Dick Mason, Rose Mary Carstens, R. Hill, and E. Gabrielson were key architects of the 1987-1992 strategic plan.
Fortunately, YMCA Camp Surf received unexpected support from the California Coastal Commission in 1984. The Commission’s recommendation for the Communication Station rejected the vacation of YMCA Camp Surf and called for the Navy to relocate the YMCA elsewhere on the site. Their objection was related to the reduction of cost-effective coastal access by eliminating the programs and services the YMCA provided. On November 29th, 1984, Richard Collato, President and CEO of the YMCA of San Diego County, wrote the California Coastal Commission to address inconsistencies in the Navy’s draft master plan. The City of Coronado and SANDAG also provided letters of support for YMCA Camp Surf remaining at its current site. The Navy proposed moving the camp to the North end of the NRRF, but later rejected that idea after reviewing access and cost via Silver Strand Hwy. Eventually the Navy abandoned the idea of evicting YMCA Camp Surf, but the YMCA felt significant pressure to strengthen programs, upgrade facilities, and increase professionalism to get back in the good graces of its landlord.
The work at YMCA Camp Surf began almost immediately thanks to generous donors that included Val Hoy and, once again, Art Jacobs. Three cabins and two dorm buildings were constructed in 1987 by the trainees from The San Diego Federal Job Corp Training Center. The beach shack, Fargo activity center (arts & crafts), and both shower houses were remodeled. Between 1988 and 1989 the remaining 6 cabins were constructed along with the waterfront facility and tower zero. The total cost was $57,000. YMCA Camp Surf got a second chance.
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Navigating Challenging Times 1980-1989 PROGRAMS The new cabins, which replaced the Quonset huts, were arranged in two villages to house Mariners and Ocean Explorers in the summer, and group services in the spring and fall. The Mariners program, now for ages 7-12, had six cabins at the south end of camp. This elementary aged program focused on an introduction to ocean sports, coastal wetlands education, and values to promote “doing their best in daily life”. Ocean Explorers, now for ages 13-16, used the 3 new cabins along the road to the waterfront. This program for teens had an emphasis on surfing, and campers traveled to surf spots from Trestles in San Clemente down to K181 in Baja California. Teens could also experience surf adventures to Hawaii including Kauai and Oahu’s North Shore. Watermen, for ages 12-13, operated about a mile north of camp in a “tent city” right on the beach. Campers and staff would only return to camp Wednesday night for showers and the camp dance. They spent all day in the water surfing, Boogie boarding and developing camping skills to prepare them for Ocean Explorers. They also enjoyed skin diving and trying to locate the sunken submarine just off the coast. Leadership Programs continued through the summer Leadership Training Program (LTP). Select youth interviewed to volunteer for the entire summer to support the counselors. This free program was funded by board members and donors to support the development of future leaders. LTP participants could expect to learn advanced lifesaving, first aid, CPR, and how to work with youth.
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“The Navy Draft Master Plan described YMCA Camp Surf as financially struggling with no real plan to develop the space...”
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SETTING A COURSE
FOR LONG-TERM STABILITY 1990–1999 PEOPLE In the early 1990’s, important personnel hires and key events set YMCA Camp Surf on a course of expansion in both programs and facilities. In 1990, Val Hoy was the Camping Board Chair, and he hired Tom Madeyski as the new Executive Director of Resident Camping. Tom came from YMCA Camp Jewel, considered one of the top YMCA camps in the country at that time. He brought his experience in camp programming, marketing and administration of overnight programs to San Diego. Tom’s enthusiastic leadership style and sound financial management were cornerstones for the changes to come over the next three decades. Dick Mason hired Zayanne Gardner as the seasonal summer director for YMCA Camp Surf in 1990. She continued to work summers through grad school and developed the Coastal Marine Studies program, the beginning of outdoor education at YMCA Camp Surf. Tom hired her in 1993 as the Outdoor Education Director at Camp Marston/Raintree Ranch. Zayanne continued to support beach programs during summers and returned to YMCA Camp Surf full time in 1999 as the Summer & Outdoor Education Director. In 1991, Dan “Dano” Gutowski and his friend Brad Russell rode their bicycles from New York to California and were promptly hired by Dick Mason. Dano and Brad served several years under Dick, developing and growing Group Services, Coastal Marine Studies, 38 |||||| Setting a Course 1990-1999
and Peer Counseling & Leadership Development. Dano started his endless summer in 1991 as the Group Services Coordinator, eventually becoming the Groups Director, then Senior Program Director. When Dick Mason stepped down in 1995, Dano took over as the YMCA Camp Surf Director. Dano continued to grow yearround programs and facilities, and then left his position in 1997 to pursue a career in higher education, ultimately becoming the Administrative Services Supervisor for Miramar College. Mark Thompson was also hired by Dick Mason in 1993. Mark hitchhiked down the west coast from Canada with a strong background in aquatics and a goal to learn how to surf. As an international staff member Mark’s first assignment was to help build Waterman Village on main camp, just south of the archery range. During his first summer Mark was an Ocean Lifeguard, Beachcomber counselor and bus driver (things were a bit different back then)! Mark headed up to Camp Marston and worked as an Instructor then Coordinator for Outdoor Education and Group Services programs. He spent the summer of 1995 as the YMCA Camp Surf waterfront director and established a new level of professionalism with radio communication, a waterfront manual, Imperial Beach lifeguard service mutual aid agreement, and a week long rookie training. Less than four years after his arrival, Mark became the YMCA Camp Surf Director when Dan Gutowski stepped down in 1997.
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Setting a Course 1990–1999 PLACE In the absence of maintenance staff, Dick worked with Sheriff Doug Walters to implement a work release program. Throughout the 1990s, thousands of people earned community-service hours at YMCA Camp Surf. Dano maximized the work release program, accomplishing numerous facility improvements. The pirate/ shipwreck theme was started, and projects included the crows’ nest, first dining deck sunshade, and staff room upgrades. The achievements by key staff were coupled with a monumental event that solidified the future of camp. In 1994, under the leadership of Camp Board Members Jeff Wohler, Ron Rouse and Jim Eischen, along with the support of California Senators Diane Feinstein, Barbara Boxer, Congressmen Brian Bilbray, and the San Diego Board of Supervisors, legislation from the United States Congress authorized up to a 50-year lease for the operation of YMCA Camp Surf on Navy property. The same individuals worked on the language, and a 50-year lease was signed in 1998. This lease provided the stability needed to raise funds and execute a long-term master plan. Mark Thompson created a new plan in 1998, expanding the vision developed by Dick Mason 10 years earlier. The first major construction in 10 years occurred in 1999 with the completion of the camp director’s house near the Carnation Ave. entrance. This was the first of many projects to come, made possible by the new long term lease.
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Setting a Course 1990–1999 PROGRAMS Group Services became the fastest growing program at all three camps and demonstrated the potential of YMCA Camp Surf as a year-round facility. The program developed because of Dano’s entrepreneurial mindset and included services ranging from basic camp site rentals, equipment rentals, a la carte programming, and meal options. Allinclusive program packages were also developed. Dano implemented bulk mailing and targeted marketing for a variety of scouts, youth groups, and YMCA Indian Guides throughout California, Arizona and Nevada. The result was thousands of new participants each year. Several pilot programs were launched at YMCA Camp Surf by Dick and Dano in the 90s. They included Environmental Service Corp, Peer Counseling & Leadership Development, after school Skateboard and Surfing Clubs, and Mission Projects to support orphanages and the YMCA in Tijuana. Outdoor Education was implemented in 1992 by Zayanne Gardner and in 1999 Mark Thompson started summer day camp. Outdoor Education, Leadership Development and Day Camp continue to this day at YMCA Camp Surf. When Mark Thompson took the helm in 1997, he capitalized on the demand Dano and Dick had created for YMCA Camp Surf
programs. Group Services moved from a la carte to full service programming and summer overnight camp moved from 8 to 9 weeks. Zayanne used her experience and connections to build Outdoor Education at Camp Marston and then at YMCA Camp Surf when she returned in 1999. Program quality and a strong reputation allowed for gradual price increases that provided desperately needed funding for facility improvements and equipment purchases. YMCA Camp Surf was on the map! The new programs, marketing, and operational growth were recognized by the YMCA of San Diego County corporate office, and YMCA Camp Surf won the Program Excellence award in 1997 for the Teen Peer Counseling & Leadership Training Program, and again in 1998 for Mission Projects. In 1999 staff recognition also became a larger part of the YMCA Camp Surf culture with the Counselor of the Week aka “COW” awarded. This was given each summer session to a program staff member that exemplified the YMCA core values of caring, honesty, respect, and responsibility and had also gone above and beyond in serving campers. Natalie Corrall, who was just starting a 17-year journey on the YMCA Camp Surf staff team, received the very first COW award.
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DEVELOPING A STRONG FOUNDATION 2000-2009 PEOPLE The Resident Camp Board formed a YMCA Camp Surf committee, and for the first time since the early 70’s YMCA Camp Surf had a team of volunteer leaders focused exclusively on its operation. The committee consisted of chair Jim Eischen, Greg Ritter, Louis School, Imperial Beach Mayor Diane Rose, Capt. David Landon, and YMCA Camp Surf Director Mark Thompson. Dann Mallec, a planner from Rik Engineering and camp board member, was instrumental in laying out the facilities and master plan electronically. The staff leadership team continued to evolve with Zayanne (Gardner) Thompson’s promotion to Program Department Head and the addition of five full-time directors, many who were part of YMCA Camp Surf for more than 10 years. This included Esther McKee, Natalie Corrall, Brent Ayers, Tim Pirkey, Robin Abadie, and Mark Carrick who served as the Office Manager, Summer/Outdoor Ed, Group Services (Brent then Tim), Food Service, and Maintenance Director respectively. Mark Thompson had a number of talents that transformed YMCA Camp Surf. His strategic thinking, ability to connect people, and strong fiscal management brought camp to a new level in both programs and facility. Mark was heavily engaged with the Resident Camp Board, Capital Development, Annual Campaign, and the greater YMCA movement. He was hands-on with most projects, and it was common to see Mark on the tractor or on a structure with his tool belt, hammer or screw gun in hand. His enthusiasm for improving camp was the driving force behind the many changes that took place at YMCA Camp Surf throughout the decade.
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Developing a Strong Foundation 2000–2009 PLACE Facility development during this decade took place at breakneck speed. In 1999 Solar Turbines leaned on their contractors, resulting in the construction of the North bathroom at a cost of only $68,000. Contractors, engineers and architects came through with materials and labor. A year later Mark Thompson planned a remodel of the south restroom to replace the roof. After roof demolition he let Tom Madeyski know that the walls also needed replacing. When the walls were torn down Mark told Tom that the concrete slab was no good either. In the end, the “remodel” only used existing utility hookups. The new south restroom was completed in-house with Mark as the project manager, a role he took on another 9 times. Each project was designed by Mark and staff with the support of outside engineering and contractors for concrete work. Waterman Village was completely rebuilt in May of 2003. This included 4 cabents (combination cabin-tents) that were moved from YMCA Camp Marston after a property line dispute, using the camp ¾ ton truck and flatbed trailer. Project donors were pleased that staff were able to completely dismantle and rebuild two cabents, and move the material for two additional cabents from YMCA Camp Marston to YMCA Camp Surf. To complete the village two platform tents and a central gazebo were added. The total cost was just over $24,000, thanks to Dale Andersen of Andersen Construction who donated the labor for the project. Three additional platform tents were also built, two in teen village and one in Mariners. These tents helped support the growing number of program participants in Outdoor Education and Group Services.
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2003 was a busy year for Mark and the YMCA Camp Surf team. A large tension tent structure replaced the sunshades on the dining deck to provide a place for meals protected from the elements. A 30’ climbing tower was built for programming, and a second modular home was added for much needed Director housing. A dedication ceremony took place at the Tropical Beach Party fundraiser on June 14th, 2003 to mark the completion of Phase 1 of the YMCA Camp Surf Master Plan. In 2004 camp was faced with an unexpected issue. The addition of a 3-car garage between the two modular homes triggered a neighbor complaint to the California Coastal Commission. Camp received a notice of violation from the Commission and was asked to either complete a coastal permit for the three structures or remove them. Camp did not realize that the Coastal Commission was attempting to establish legal precedent in order to control development on federal property in California. Fortunately, the commission unsuccessfully sued the Navy on another matter, and dropped the violation for YMCA Camp Surf after losing in court. This was an important victory for camp since it established that development on camp would be processed through the Navy using the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) moving forward.
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The next endeavor for the camp facilities team took place in 2006 when the entrance moved from Carnation Ave. to Silver Strand Blvd. The old block fence received stucco and decorative iron with help from San Diego Job Corps. A timely donation of plants, including huge Canary Palms, involved the entire YMCA Camp Surf team in irrigation and landscaping, and added the perfect look to the new entrance. Tropical Beach Party proceeds, the Imperial Beach Façade Improvement Program, in-kind donations, and individual donations made the project possible. In 2007 the beach shack by the dining deck, built by Dick Mason decades earlier using telephone poles, SDGE cable spools and donated materials, was almost completely torn down. Only the bathroom remained. Once again the project was designed and constructed in house with limited outside contractor support. The new Beach House held one full-time director and up to 3, yearround coordinators. All onsite program directors were finally in housing that was a benefit, not a detractor, when recruiting quality leadership.
On the heels of the Beach House completion, Cecile (Cissy) Walters asked to meet with Mark for a camp tour and to talk about a memorial gift. In the fall of 2007, Cissy donated the lead gift toward the Marine Science Center to be named Walters’ REEF (Recreation and Environmental Education Facility) in honor of her husband Doug Walters. The building was only a concept that Mark had designed on home architecture software, but Cissy was convinced it was the right facility. She called Mark a week later to let him know she was increasing the gift by another $25,000 to ensure the projects success. In October of 2009 the new entrance, second program director home, and Walters’ REEF were dedicated at the YMCA Camp Surf 40th Birthday Party and alumni event. The Walter’s Family, Val Hoy Jr., Dick Mason and the Fargo family were in attendance.
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“Programs expanded significantly as new program areas, activities, and features were added to enhance the YMCA Camp Surf experience.”
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Developing a Strong Foundation 2000–2009 PROGRAMS Programs expanded significantly as new program areas, activities, and features were added to enhance the YMCA Camp Surf experience. In May 2000, YMCA Camp Surf became one of the first 100 lifeguard agencies in the United States to meet the stringent USLA (United States Lifesaving Association) certification criteria. This elevated the YMCA Camp Surf lifeguard service to the same level as adjacent ocean lifeguard agencies. Highlights included a rigorous lifeguard academy, vehicle operations, first responder certification, and defibrillator and oxygen administration. The SOUL (Service, Outreach, Unity and Leadership) Surfers program replaced LIT’s in 2006. Beachcombers evolved to include a 4-day overnight camping trip to San Onofre State Beach and riding beach cruisers to Coronado. A new area was built for Summer Day Camp that includes storage, shade, tables, camper cubbies, and a second archery range.
Award in 2007. It is given each season to acknowledge 2-3 staff members that consistently exceed expectations in their role and in customer service. The Outdoor Education program also received the Program Excellence award from the YMCA of San Diego County in 2007 and the Program Innovation award for SOUL Surfers in 2008. The FAN (Friends/Family Adventures in Nature) Club program was developed in 2008 with a grant secured through REI. Through after-school and weekend family programs, YMCA Camp Surf brought the outdoors to under-served kids and families. The initial program measured impact on views about nature and conservation in families from primarily Hispanic communities. The program demonstrated that views toward nature and conservation improved with exposure to the outdoors.
An important culture shift occurred in 2005 with the implementation of the Waste Reduction & Environmental Stewardship Plan. This team effort was led by Zayanne Thompson, and for the first time departments worked together to reduce waste and develop more responsible and sustainable practices. Staff recognition continued with implementation of the WOW (Way Over What is expected…) 2000-2009 Developing a Strong Foundation ||||||| 67
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THE NEW FACE OF CAMP 2010–2019 PEOPLE During the summer of 2012, Executive Manager (Camp Director) Mark Thompson exchanged his flip flops for dress shoes as the new Executive Director for the Rancho Family YMCA, a community branch of the YMCA of San Diego County. Mark was the longest serving camp director during the first 50 years of YMCA Camp Surf. Zayanne Thompson served as the interim director, and after a competitive process was hired as the new Executive Manager. Her passion for the mission, knowledge of program and operations, and strong community relationships were a great fit to support YMCA Camp Surf. Tom Madeyski continued to oversee all 3 overnight camps and was promoted to District Executive, with the additional role of supporting day camp programs for the entire San Diego YMCA. From 2013 to 2015, Keith Fargo, the son of Captain Bill Fargo, served as Chair of the Overnight Camp Board of Managers. A number of staff changes at YMCA Camp Surf significantly impacted the achievements to come. Zayanne changed the staffing structure and for the first time YMCA Camp Surf had three program directors for Summer Camp, Outdoor Education, and Castaways. Joseph Breedlove returned as the Food Service Director and Clayton Jones returned as the Castaway Director to round out a strong team. In 2017 a major change in the office occurred. Esther McKee was first hired by Dick Mason in 1994 as a part-time receptionist. After multiple promotions over 23 years, Esther retired as the Director of Administration. Esther’s heart for camp, passion for diversity, strong community service, and “management” of 4 different camp directors is a testament to her character and patience.
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“MY SOUL IS FULL OF LONGING FOR THE SECRETS OF THE SEA, AND THE HEART OF THE GREAT OCEAN SENDS A THRILLING PULSE THROUGH ME.” – HENRY WADSWORTH LONGFELLOW
The New Face of Camp 2010–2019 PLACE The changes at YMCA Camp Surf were growing in both scale and impact. Between 2010 and 2012, Mark Thompson managed several design-build projects. Watermen Village cabins were enlarged to add additional bunk beds, and two large cabents replaced the platform tent near Cabin 9 to move all teens to one area of camp. In 2011 the “Sugar Shack” was opened, and for the first time campers were able to go inside the camp store to purchase snacks and souvenirs. The building included wetsuit storage and was surrounded by a large patio with seating and a gas fire ring. Before his departure, Mark was able to solidify three distinct cabin villages, and add an important gathering area in the center of camp that provided key services for campers and families. In 2012 not only did the face leading camp change, but events were set in motion that drastically changed the face of camp. Facility needs, donors, and relationships aligned to successfully build the first indoor dining facility and replace 13 cabins. Zayanne Thompson was the project manager for the three largest capital expansion projects in YMCA Camp Surf’s 50-year history.
The initial design for a new dining hall was created by Mark Thompson and Sean Bollinger, a long-time camper and counselor studying to be an architect. The curved roofing was a nod to the early Quonset huts. Once conceptual design was done Tom Madeyski started fund-raising for the project, and Dan and Vi McKinney stepped forward with a seven-figure gift to fund the McKinney Oceanfront Center. Demolition started in November 2013 with a tight timetable. Unique delays included the discovery of a buried Navy tank containing JP-5 jet fuel, and the unanticipated reinforcement repairs to the adjacent sea wall made the timeline even more challenging. A number of changes were required to mitigate these unexpected costs, however aesthetic changes were possible thanks to creative purchasing, planning, and the incredible talents of the camp facility team. This team completed most of the finishing touches inside the building, which offset the cost of additions like the fireplace, patio trellis, and copper roof. Zayanne’s tenacity, expectation of quality work, and attention to detail resulted in a beautiful coastal space that met the needs of camp, capitalized on the location, and was completed in time for summer 2014.
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By the fall of 2015, funding to replace the platform tent and 6 cabins in 2 Mariner Village was ready. Navy approval, site development, and project execution were all managed by Zayanne. To expedite the building process, modular units were custom designed to completely replace all 7 structures. This was an unconventional project with interesting issues, like when ½ of the first cabin tipped over on the freeway en route from Arizona. With support from staff and the site development team, the village was transformed. In the spring of 2016, for the first-time, guests of YMCA Camp Surf enjoyed insulated cabins with a sliding window, reading light, shelving, and extra-long mattress in every bunk! In 2017 Phase II of cabin replacement was started. Three cabins, two cabents, and one platform tent were replaced with 4 new cabins to create Beachcomber Village and a separate 2 cabins for SOUL Surfers. Due to the proximity of the wetlands and site placement challenges, Phase II cabins were still modular units but had a different layout and the interior shiplap was sealed instead of painted. The look was stunning. Zayanne was the project manager again and the facility team played a much larger role in this project. They built retaining walls, all bunk shelving, conduit for new electrical, what they called the “Superdeck” for teens, and as a special touch, the bunk ladders salvaged from the original cabins were refinished and reused in cabins 7-13.
By 2000 the camp Facility Team had grown to a staff of six. Their talent and creativity were a great match to meet the needs of over 15,000 people that came through YMCA Camp Surf each year. Accessibility was improved with a boardwalk from center camp to all Mariner cabins and to the waterfront, and a ramp from the parking lot to Mariner Village. Lifeguard “Tower Zero” was rebuilt, the climbing tower was resurfaced, a large quarter-pipe was constructed for summer skate boarding, and the rusty roofing at Waterman Village was also replaced with Plywood and new corrugated tin. In all more than $3.5 million dollars in capital and major facility improvements was managed by Zayanne, in a role she thought she never wanted, but absolutely loved!
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It was a busy decade for facilities even without the capital projects. In 2013 a third director house was purchased and brought onto the site. The first two director homes got a facelift with new roofs, flooring, siding, and exterior paint. Full time housing now included 3 manufactured homes, and the beach house. That same year, work started to pave and landscape the parking lot. A neighbor complaint resulted in the Navy reconsidering approval. Zayanne worked with the board, Navy environmental, and several engineering firms to mitigate the added requirements. The new plan was approved. Unfortunately the added costs were prohibitive, and the project was put on hold. 2010-2019 The New Face of Camp |||||||| 81
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“EXAMPLE IS NOT THE MAIN THING IN INFLUENCING OTHERS, IT IS THE ONLY THING.” – ALBERT SCHWEITZER
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A (Left to Right) Dan Gutowski, Mark Thompson, Zayanne Thomson, & Dick Mason each rode the longboard pictured for just one wave before it was hung in the McKinney Dining Hall. B Executive Manager Zayanne Thompson celebrating arrival and placement of Beachcomber cabins.
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The New Face of Camp 2010–2019 PROGRAMS Significant changes made good programming even better. The new Sugar Shack stored over 300 wetsuits for summer camper use and weekend rentals, and the indoor store space increased opportunities for campers to budget and balance healthy choices. In 2012 Castaways, who had been beach tent camping with full program every summer, was changed to only weekends in order to allow for a Monday-Friday focus on overnight and summer day camp. Camp was being recognized nationally for its strong environmental stewardship, and in 2012 the Beach Party fund-raiser was moved from June to August and turned into a family event. In 2017 it was moved back to the original adult format and moved to November. Jetty Shredder recognition for campers and staff started in 2011 and was retroactive for anyone that had attended or worked 5 seasons of summer overnight camp. Each week during summer, new Jetty Shredders signed the surfboard hanging in McKinney, and were given a Jetty Shredder pin. Only Shredders could purchase the Jetty Shredder T-shirt. The first Jetty Shredder surfboard was donated to camp by Castaway Director Tim Pirkey. A new board was started in 2015, donated by Camp Director Mark Thompson. In his words, “this
board has seen a lot of great lefts off the YMCA Camp Surf jetty, it is an honor to give it to camp as the next Jetty Shredder board”. The program and operational growth continued exponentially at YMCA Camp Surf. Zayanne and her team grew operations 30 percent to a $3.1 million annual budget. The day camp program doubled in size, and in 2013 was given the name Voyager Village. By the end of the decade day camp was full, with large waiting lists for every summer session, summer camp was close to full, Castaways had become a milliondollar program, and Outdoor Education had expanded to fill the spring and early fall. Community Programs gained in strength throughout this decade. YMCA Camp Surf started serving community and non-profit groups for events and meetings in McKinney Oceanfront Center. Although it was mostly revenue neutral, the team developed a passion for serving the community. Relationships with local non-profits, The Rotary Club of Coronado, the City of Imperial Beach, and YMCA community branches grew. Thanks to a long line of dedicated staff, volunteers, and donors, YMCA Camp Surf finished 50 years strong serving summer campers, outdoor programs for schools, weekend recreational programs, and their local community.
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FIFTY YEARS of STEWARDSHIP Interactions with nature are good for the heart and soul. Spending time outdoors improves health, learning, problemsolving, and memory, along with other benefits we are just starting to understand. YMCA Camp Surf’s location on the coast in Southern California is incredible. The fact that its 45 acres includes a sandy beach, gentle left break, tide pools, and coastal wetland creates the perfect backdrop for nurturing deep connections to nature.
Having an Environmental Stewardship Plan changed the culture of YMCA Camp Surf. All departments and staff worked together to learn and make changes in order to reduce consumption of natural resources, minimize waste, and promote sustainable stewardship. More importantly, the staff wanted to model those choices for the kids and families that participated in camp programs. The plan was updated annually to meet changing needs, and to consider new information and options.
YMCA Camp Surf was started to provide outdoor opportunities for youth. Programs have evolved over the years, and life-changing outdoor experiences have always been the goal. In the 1990’s the YMCA focused nationally on the 4 “core values” of Caring, Honesty, Respect, and Responsibility. Camp Surf took that to also mean respect for all living things, and included environmental stewardship as part of Responsibility. In 2004 staff developed a Waste Reduction Plan that over time became the iCARE Plan. iCARE was started by YUSA to bring environmental stewardship to YMCA camps across the country. Leadership changes at YUSA moved in a different direction, but YMCA Camp Surf continued to be an iCARE champion.
Recycling efforts increased, and recycling bins were placed next to every trash can to emphasize choices. Reducing and reusing resources was even more important than recycling since, by the year 2000, more than 15,000 people visited YMCA Camp Surf every year. Disposable food service items were eliminated and paper plates and plastic ware were no longer used for convenience. Campers on trips started washing plates and cups. Cloth napkins replaced paper napkins, and guests donated unwanted mugs to replace paper coffee cups. The message was clear: YMCA Camp Surf was taking the extra step to reuse items, instead of creating cheap and easy “convenience” garbage.
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Facility development was a continual opportunity to consider sustainable choices. Rebuilding Waterman cabins presented an opportunity to have an “off-grid” solar village. Walter’s REEF construction included biocompatible soap and a grey water system that drained into mulch beds to water plants. The interior of McKinney Oceanfront Center has numerous examples of reclaimed wood, old furniture, and salvaged brass ship lights. Setting a positive example created constant teachable moments for sustainability. Resource conservation was another important aspect of role modeling for camp guests. YMCA Camp Surf has a lot of light bulbs! Incandescent bulbs were changed to compact fluorescent, and then again to LED to save energy. Camp installed a chilled water bottle filler to encourage reusable water bottles (and stopped selling single use water bottles in the camp store). One of the larger impacts was the implementation of Meatless Meal days for each group. The kitchen used a wide variety of creative protein substitutes to model alternatives to meat that are not only healthy for guests, but also for the planet. Compost is another part of YMCA Camp Surf meals that is healthy for the planet. Since 2004, left over coffee grounds, tea bags, plants, and grains all go into compost buckets during food prep and
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at the end of each meal. By involving all guests in this process, ~250 cubic yards of food waste was diverted from the landfill each year. From 2004-2019, that is enough to fill a baseball diamond 13 feet high with food waste. Instead of sending all that to the landfill, it was mixed with straw from old archery targets, grass clippings, and dirt. Guests are told that in 6 months their food scraps will become soil to be used in the gardens around camp. Protecting Habitat and habitat restoration is part of the YMCA Camp Surf mission and responsibility. Protecting and enhancing the wetland area was an on-going process for staff and volunteers. Invasive plants were removed, and butterfly gardens were developed throughout the camp center. Walkways were added to minimize impact, and beach wrack, the piles of kelp that wash up on the beach, was left alone because it plays an important role in protecting and feeding birds and invertebrates. YMCA Camp Surf took action because the staff care about the environment and doing the right thing. They also made an effort in order to set a positive example, and to educate campers and families about opportunities and choices they make at home. Fifty Years of Stewardship ||||||||| 93
“IN THE END WE WILL CONSERVE ONLY WHAT WE LOVE, WE WILL LOVE ONLY WHAT WE UNDERSTAND, AND WE WILL UNDERSTAND ONLY WHAT WE ARE TAUGHT.” – BABA DIOUM
AUTHORS KEITH FARGO My ties to the San Diego YMCA started in 1973 when my father, Navy Captain Bill Fargo, decided it would be a good “life experience” for me to spend my last summer before graduating from college as a counselor at Camp Surf. While I pleaded my case that I had other summer plans and was not “camp counselor material,” my father prevailed. My family’s ties to the San Diego YMCA actual started with my sister, Barbara Fargo, who was a summer Counselor at Camp Marston in 1967-1968 and worked in the San Diego YMCA headquarters’ office the following summer. Due to my sister’s positive experiences with the YMCA, my father volunteered to be the Navy representative on the YMCA Camp Committee. My father prevailed again in the fall of 1973 when he strongly encouraged me to apply to the U.S. Navy Officer Candidate School (OCS). Upon graduating from the University of Southern California and completion of OCS in 1974, I was commissioned an Ensign in the U.S. Navy Supply Corps. My first assignment was as a Supply Officer on a nuclear submarine. Following that tour, I spent much of my career in submarine related jobs including managing supply operations on ships and shore-based activities that directly supported submarines. The best part of my Naval career was I was able to see the world, including two overseas assignments with a very supportive family that enjoyed the journey. After I retired as a Navy Captain in 2003, I decided it was time for me to give back to the community and honor my father’s legacy. I joined the YMCA Overnight Camp Board in 2006, and was the Board’s chair from 2013-2015. Over the last 50 years, Camp Surf facilities have changed quite a bit, but more importantly, Camp Surf continues to change people’s lives, as it changed mine.
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MARK THOMPSON I found YMCA Camp Surf by accident in 1992 on a backpacking trip along the west coast from Vancouver, Canada to Imperial Beach, California. The people I met and the Southern California environment were exactly what I was searching for. Six months later I returned to work at camp on an 18-month leadership development visa through YMCA of the USA. The plan was to save some money, then continue my backpacking journey into Central America. The YMCA of San Diego County had other plans for me. The Y mission drew me in and I was excited about what camp was doing. I worked hard, learned a lot about myself, and grew personally and professionally over the course of a 25-year career with this great organization. YMCA Camp Surf was my first professional position and was the most rewarding role in my career so far. The work I did at camp is what I am most proud of, and the people I met there are some of the best on earth. I met my wife at Camp Surf, we worked at Camp Marston, got married at Raintree Ranch, and then moved back to Camp Surf where we raised our son. We are a camp family. The YMCA has also taught me how to lead a nonprofit successfully. I have developed strong business skills thanks to the organization investing in me as a professional. Strategic planning, executive leadership, prudent fiscal management and strong fundraising boards were how this Y became so successful and it is humbling to look back and see what we have accomplished. My experiences led me to USD to earn a graduate degree in Leadership and Nonprofit Management. While working at the YMCA I volunteered for several nonprofits and I continue to partner with nonprofit leaders as a volunteer and consultant. The Y set me on the right path, and I feel compelled to share what I have learned to support organizations that are addressing some of the country’s most pressing issues. Camp developed my passion for conservation, the outdoors, and amateur carpentry. I also love to surf, ski, golf, and camp with family and friends.
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PHOTO INDEX THE LAND THAT BECAME A CAMP 1. USC&GS Map Coronado Heights 1944 2. Coronado Heights Development Map 3. Aerial Photo, Coronado Heights 1954 4. Aerial Photo, Wullenweber circular antenna aka “the elephant cage” 5. Silver Strand Training Complex, Naval Base Coronado
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GETTING STARTED 1969-1979 People
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1. Dedication Ceremony Program, June 11, 1970
1. Main road of camp looking east
1. Program activity scheduling board
2. Seawall and first waterfront storage building
2. Warren Glasser teaching Sand, Waves & Rips
3. Aerial photograph, YMCA Camp Surf looking north
3. Camp store in kitchen breezeway
2. Eleventh Naval District Formal Dedication Invitation, June 11, 1970 3. Opening day ceremonies invitation, June 21, 1969 4. Girl Scouts handing out programs for June 11, 1970 dedication 5. Captain Vincent L. Cassani Jr. dedication address on June 11, 1970 6. Cake-cutting by Rear Admiral Joseph V. Williams Jr, June 11, 1970
4. Waterfront Quonset hut and Tower Zero
4. Breakfast on the dining deck with army tent cabins in the background
5. Quonset hut staging area along North fence
5. Keith Fargo (in blue shorts) raising the mast, summer 1973
6. Quonset hut cabin on Mason Lane
6. Army tent cabin setup
7. Campfire area (north bathroom in distant left)
7. Beach entrance, 1976
8. Quonset hut cabin triple bunks
9. Original Tower Zero, 1970
9. Waterfront storage building
8. Surf Safari bus, K181 Mexico, 1975
10. Original flagpole and stage used for 1970 dedication ceremony. 11. Maintenance yard. The 1944 tool shed on the right received an addition in 2009 and is still in use as of 2019.
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PHOTO INDEX NAVIGATING CHALLENGING TIMES 1980-1989 People
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Programs
1. Dick Mason, addressing a volunteer group
1. Old Quonset hut waterfront storage
1. Watermen tent village
2. Lowell Lindsey (left), Executive Director YMCA Camping Services
2. Art Jacobs Kitchen and dining deck
2. Sailing on San Diego Bay
3. New Waterfront and Tower Zero, 1988
3. Box Cabin bunks
4. Final days of Quonset Hut cabin
4. Baja Surf Safari, K181 Mexico
5. New box cabin construction in Mariner Village, 1986
5. Stargazers fundraising event
3. Doug Walters, Sheriff Imperial Beach substation, was responsible for bringing the “work release” program to YMCA Camp Surf for much needed maintenance help 4. Dick Mason takes his turn lifeguarding from the “Pelican Platform”
6. Seabees add restroom to beach shack 7. Original restrooms and shower house 8. Tower zero with no glass 9. Jim Palmer builds and paints dining deck picnic tables 10. Original Multi-purpose room adjacent to parking lot
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6. Half pipe skate ramp between Mariner cabins and Crafts
SETTING A COURSE 1990-1999 People
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Programs
1. Director of Administration Esther McKee in original Sugar Shack
1. YMCA Camp Surf 50-year lease signing. (L-R both rows): Karen Ringell, Navy Real Estate; Ron Rouse, YMCA Camping Services Board Volunteer; Esther Ewell, Navy Real Estate; Daryl Dawson, Navy Legal Counsel; Maria Bowie, Congressman Brian Bilbray Office; Rick Gielenfeldt, NACOMTELSTA Base; James Eischen, YMCA Camping Services Board Volunteer; Jeffrey A. Wohler, YMCA Camping Services Board Volunteer; Greg Cox, San Diego County Board of Supervisors; Tom Madeyski, YMCA Camping Services. Seated: Captain Tim Booth, Commanding Officer, United States Navy and Richard Collato, President & CEO, YMCA of San Diego County
1. Coastal Marine Studies Program begins, 1992
2. Dick Mason at Stargazers event, summer 1993 3. Zayanne Gardner with kitchen staff 4. Dan Gutowski (center), Stargazers event 1993 5. Mark Thompson (right) repairs his first surfboard, summer 1993 6. Dick Mason and the twins, summer 1990 7. Sailing lessons with Dick Mason 8. Zayanne Gardner starts a 30-year tradition of hugs, summer 1993 9. Dan Gutowski leads a meal orientation 10. Darin Borgstadter, Maintenance and Food Service Director, 1997 11. Neighborhood street beautification 12. Brad Russel awards Dan Gutowski a bead (originators of bead program)
2. Trust & Training activity 3. Beachcombers (with Molly) heading to San Onofre 4. Cooking breakfast at K181 Baja, Mexico 5. Dick Mason develops partnership with Southwestern College to sail and kayak on the bay 6. Foam boards replace hard plastic surfboards 7. Sand candles is a popular arts and crafts activity at camp 8. Meal trays and dish washing system (by campers) on the dining deck
2. New stage and cross at camp Vespers, 1997 3. Watermen is no longer beach tent camping and Waterman Village is built inside camp, 1993 4. New modular home for Camp Director, 1998 5. Mark Thompson in early beach tower (with Spunky and Kapua) 1995 6. Leadership Development ropes course built 7. First location of founder’s flagpole, including wooden yardarm 8. Campfire area becomes “Pirates Cove” with masts and Crow’s nest
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PHOTO INDEX DEVELOPING A STRONG FOUNDATION 2000-2009 People 1. Dedication of Capital Phase 1 completion, June 14th, 2003 2. Program Director Tim Pirkey raises the flag 3. Ribbon cutting for Capital Phase 1 completion. Mark Thompson (left), Mayor Diane Rose, Camp Surf Committee Chair Greg Ritter, and Tom Madeyski 4. Robyn Abadie, Food Service Director, at the Tropical Beach Party 5. Brent Ayers (right), in his early role as Group Services Director. Brent renamed the program “Castaways”. 6. Office team Esther McKee (left), Alexis Dietz, Sandra Flores, and Joe Breedlove 7. 2009 Walters’ REEF dedication. Cissy Walters (left), Dick Mason, Tom Madeyski, Dan Gutowski, Keith Fargo, and Mark Thompson 8. 2005 Summer Leadership Team 9. Maintenance Director Mark Carrick (center), with Mark and Zayanne 10. Beachcombers make the trek down to the beach at San Onofre 11. Long time Program Director Nat Corrall catches a wave 12. Waterfront Director, Matias Etchenique, with the original Trooper, camps first lifeguard vehicle 13. ARC grounds crew: Miguel (left), Lee, Hope (Job Coach), and Danny
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14. Sunday Vespers. This traditional start of summer camp includes welcoming campers, the surf report, and as of 2011, all campers who have attended 5 years of summer overnight camp signed the Jetty Shredder board. 15. In the early 2000’s, program staff cleaning the bathrooms became a thing of the past. A crew from the ARC of San Diego provided janitorial services, and they were a welcome addition to the camp family! 16. 2004 Summer Camp Staff team and Red dog (in front with lei) 17. First neighborhood Halloween Carnival, Oct 31, 2000 18. Clayton Jones, World Beach Flag Champion, begins his camp career, 2002
Place 1. The tension tent dining deck cover was a welcome addition for shade and during wet weather, however since most wind blows on shore, it was sometimes chilly (and also challenging to keep lettuce and napkins from blowing away) 2. Camp entrance moves from Carnation Avenue to Silver Strand Blvd 3. 2009 Walters REEF dedication. Mark Thompson (left), Cissy Walters, Zayanne Thompson and Tom Madeyski 4. YMCA Camp Surf van at a mission project in Tijuana, Mexico
5. After Watermen Village was rebuilt it was expanded and 2 tent-cabins were added 6. Mariner Village received a facelift and was painted in bright Caribbean Colors 7. Paul Marshall (program instructor and carpenter) builds a new stage for Pirate’s Cove and Brent Ayers adds the décor 8. Aquarium system is set up in MPR (Multi-purpose Room) 9. Wall murals in 2003 north bathroom, thanks to artist and then Maintenance staff member, Mark Carrick 10. Marsh tent, one of five tent cabins added to villages. Each held 6 bunk beds to sleep 12.
Programs 1. Skateboarding is brought back as a summer activity with the addition of portable skate ramps 2. Sand, Waves and Rips Lesson during summer staff training 3. Trooper 2.0 goes into service. All lifeguard vehicles, regardless of make and model, are referred to as the “Trooper” from this point forward! 4. Zayanne Thompson leads staff Vespers, just before summer camp check-in starts 5. 2003 Summer Staff Photo 6. Solution for dining deck “winterization” prior to tension tent cover
THE NEW FACE OF CAMP 2010-2019 People 1. Mark Thompson riding the surfboard he will later donate as the second “Jetty Shredder Board” 2. Finance Director Sandra Flores (left) with Esther McKee 3. Zayanne Thompson (center) accepts a donation from Navy Chiefs. Every fall ~900 Navy Chiefs conduct their Chiefs Training Day at YMCA Camp Surf 4. Food Service Director, aka “Chef Joe”, Joseph Breedlove 5. District Executive Director of YMCA Overnight Camps, Tom Madeyski 6. Board members Terry Bucknum and Greg Ritter on the McKinney patio 7. Clayton Jones and Steve Morris with “Teens in Motion” mermaid 8. Zayanne Thompson with “Little Surf” 9. Waterfront/Castaway Director Kyle Millard (left) with Outdoor Education Director, Clayton Jones. 10. Donor Development Director Steve Morris (left), Dan Gutowski, and Dick Mason 11. Keith Fargo, board members, at annual Beach Party fund-raiser 12. Summer Camp Director Chelsey Ayers, checking in on Tower Zero lifeguard in 2017 13. Camp Surf Facility Team building the second “Founder’s Flagpole (with the original wooden Navy yardarm) 14. Kitchen Shift Lead Marie Burton gives a thumbs up as the longest serving kitchen staff member
15. Area Marketing Director, Brent Ayers
cabins in Mariner Village 2015
16. 2016 Summer Camp Staff, with staff shirts and the beach barge rebranded!
11. Interior of McKinney Oceanfront Center, 2014
17. The pier jump, part of the 2-week USLA summer lifeguard training
12. Mariner Village cabins, built as manufactured homes with site development and delivery taking place from fall 2013 through spring 2014
18. Trooper 3.0 (which is actually a Toyota Tacoma) was donated by San Diego County Toyota Dealers in 2014
Place 1. McKinney Oceanfront Center, 2014 2. Mariner Village cabin demolition in 2015 3. Dan McKinney (center) with Wife Vi McKinney and family at McKinney Oceanfront Center dedication August 2014 4. Hugh Bennett (center) with Tom Madeyski and Zayanne Thompson at McKinney Oceanfront Center dedication August 2014 5. Dining deck and kitchen in fall 2013, before demolition 6. Dedication of Beachcomber/SOUL cabins (phase II), 2018 7. Beachcomber cabin 10 and cabents 11 & 12 in 2017. Cabin 10 was one of the original box cabins built in 1987. The 2 cabents were built in 2011. 8. Mariner cabin interior (phase I), 2014. Each bunk was built with its own window, light, and storage. 9. Newly completed Beachcomber cabins 10-13 as seen from across the wetlands, 2018
13. Sugar Shack and wetsuit storage, built in 2011 14. SOUL Surfer on-site service project to build a fire pit and seating in Waterman Village, 2011
Programs 1. Jetty Shredder tradition begins during summer staff training, 2011 2. Michael Nicoloff leads weekend family camp for Fan participants 3. Facility team leads NAYDO service project, to build an accessible walkway to the waterfront, in 2017 4. Annual sand sculpture by camp alumni, the Sand Squirrels
FIFTY YEARS of STEWARDSHIP 1. Campers washing dishes at San Onofre (after Camp Surf stopped using disposables) 2. Compost demonstration area
10. Camp aerial showing Walters REEF, McKinney Oceanfront Center and box
Photo Index | 105
CREDITS We would like to thank two amazing people that collaborated with us to create, develop and edit this book. At camp it takes a team to make good things happen. This project was no different. With gratitude - Keith Fargo and Mark Thompson. COVER + BOOK DESIGN Brent Ayers Area Marketing Director | YMCA Overnight Camps
EDITOR Zayanne Thompson Executive Manager | YMCA Camp Surf
References and Sources Ed Greaves – YMCA Overnight Camping Branch Board Member and Camp Historian Dick Mason – YMCA Camp Surf Camp Director, retired Val Hoy – Executive Director, YMCA of San Diego County, retired Dan Gutowski – YMCA Camp Surf staff and Director, 1992–1997 Natalie Corrall – YMCA Camp Surf staff and Director, 1999–2015 Coronado Historical Association – Website YMCA of San Diego County – Overnight Camping Branch Archives
All rights reserved. This is a nonfiction book that reflects the recollections of the authors. It also includes the recollections of current and past board members and employees. Research and review of documents from the YMCA Overnight Camping Branch archives were used as source material and are only as good as that source. None of the information contained in the book is intended to disparage or hurt any persons alive or dead. The views and opinions expressed in this book are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official position or policy of the YMCA of San Diego County. 106 | Credits
