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 It is one of the most eagerly anticipated events of the entire summer: the opening Indian council fire. This gathering around the bonfire is a time not only to learn about camp’s Indian games but also to see and hear about Iroquois culture and traditions. The C.I.T.’s performed a dance around the fire (at left), while a storyteller wove a tale about the importance of the upcoming competitions. The White Man and Woman then concluded the gathering by emphasizing the importance of teamwork, spirit, and leadership.
For returning campers the evening is a chance to reconnect with fellow  members of their tribe, and share their enthusiasm and strategies for the upcoming games. For new campers it is a time of great anticipation as they eagerly await the announcement of their tribal assignment (click here for a complete list of the five tribes); Daniela Orozco came away quite pleased, saying that “The council fire was very cool, and the best thing was that I’m not on my brother’s tribe!”
The competitions start immediately, with the boys competing in the Great Indian Track Meet today, and with the girls’ Swim/Boat Carnival coming on Saturday. Intermediate Owen Mellin can’t wait for Capture the Chief’s Bonnet, his favorite game, while Emily Durlacher reports that she “just loves all the games, and I really like the tribal elections too!”
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