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 “A.C. the A.C.”: Maybe the reason why Alex Comeau has such a great sense of humor is because it takes just that, along with a lot of patience and loyalty, to survive the sometimes thankless position of associate counselor at Pok-O-MacCready. The “A.C.” position is reserved for qualified 17-year old former campers. Only a few are recommended each summer, and Comeau was one of just two to serve in 2006; the only full-summer appointee.
Graduating high school in just three years, and with high honors, Comeau, a native of Essex, NY, plans to take a year off from school. He joins his sister on the Pok-O-MacCready staff; His father and two uncles were counselors during the 1970’s.
WHY BE AN “A.C.; WHICH IS EFFECTIVELY A JUNIOR COUNSELOR”?: “Last year (as an Advanced Section camper) was a big year and I wanted to be a counselor. Tim (Gibson, A.C. in 2005 and Pioneer counselor this summer) said it was a lot of work but he enjoyed it. I also wanted to be on staff with my sister. Because I’m the only A.C., I’m pretty much on equal terms with everyone else. The different rules stink every once in a while, but I wouldn’t go out at night that much anyway. If  there were more than one A.C., it might be easier.”
WHAT DO YOU HAVE PLANNED FOR THE YEAR AHEAD?: “I’m taking a N.O.L.S. course for a semester in the Rockies. I also plan to travel through Europe, and whatever else pops up. I graduated early because I wasn’t crazy about high school. I’m excited to take a break away from school. I’ll apply to colleges this year- I’m psyched to go- but I’m not sure where.”
HOW IS IT WORKING WITH THE PIONEERS?: “It’s a lot of work because they need a lot of attention. But the conflicts (with this age group) are not as big, the kids are fun. I get a lot of satisfaction from them.
IS THIS THE SPRINGBOARD TO BE A FULL COUNSELOR AT CAMP?: “I might as well follow this up and get the real counselor experience. I definately want to be here at least next year. Beyond that, we’ll see.”
(NOTE: There are seven members of the current Pok-O-MacCready staff who were formerly A.C.’s. There are currently no fewer than ten current 16 year old campers in 2006 who are eligible to be Associate Counselors next summer. Recommendations are made by their section heads, class instructors and heads of camp. A few will be chosen, but since not everyone offered takes the position, all candidates are encouraged to contact camp to express their interest.)
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later in the day.