Joe Stern died shortly after composing this letter to Jack Swan, owner of Pok-O-MacCready Camps.  Stern has always been recognized for his incredible Pok-O Spirit.  Today, when a boy camper has attended seven summers at Pok-O, he receives the Joe Stern Pok-O Spirit Award.

 

# 4 Washington Square Village apt. 11-M
New York, 10012, N.Y.
August 4, 1969

Dear Jack:

I think that I might best describe coming back to Pok-O, even for the short period of time I spent there, as a warm experience.

Aside from seeing a great many friends (etc.), the highlight of it all was returning to the Adirondacks.  There are beautiful places, and there are not such beautiful places, but aside from it being beautiful, I feel a curious attachment to the Adirondacks.  Do not let “curious” belie the strength of the attachment.  Here again I am at somewhat of a loss of words to describe this “attachment.”  I do know several things about it, though.  Maybe there are only several things to it.

This attachment is the sort you might have with an old and understanding friend.  This bond is formed between living things.  This bond is not a chain that hold together things uncommon but rather it’s the union, the product of things common to both.

One more thing: this bond is exclusive to me and my Adirondacks.

The course is going well at Columbia. The stiffs are getting restless.  One more week to it.  It terminates the eighth.

The weather in the city is as humid as ever.  And the smog as thick.  (I’m telling you because I know you love to hear it!)

Back to Pok-O...

Pok-O has really done a lot for me.  How you did it, I don’t know.  I don’t think anyone else does either.  Pok-O is any other camp with some sort of magical ingredient added.  I believe this ingredient is sometimes referred to as “Pok-O Spirit.”  This ingredient is sadly lacking in a great many places, besides camps.  Whatever the hell it is, you ought to bottle it and sell it!  No matter what happens, don’t lose hold of the recipe.  Pok-O may not be the most influential, or the classiest, or have the best facilities, but it is the richest and I don’t mean “breadwise.” 

That about wraps up this “reminiscing hour” and Old Fogey No. 1 is about to sign off.  Jack, remember, whatever happens, don’t lose your recipe.  And about selling it, forget it, it’s priceless.

Your ardent disciple,

Joseph Stern