Hey, Camp Folks! 

There are so many common phrases and expressions that have been so sewn into the fabric of our everyday speech that we use them without even realizing it. Some can sound a bit bizarre if you don’t know the origin of the phrase. For example, ‘Fly off the Handle’ originated from lumberjacks losing their axeheads as they got loose and flew off. You can read more about that right here. 

For today’s post, however, let’s take a look at the phrase ‘Cut to the Chase’. Time is an essential thing in our lives and none of us want ours to be wasted (unless we’re the ones doing it!). Cut to the Chase is what you say when you want someone to stop WASTING YOUR TIME AND GET TO THE POINT! 

…sorry to fly off the handle, there. 

But why the phrase ‘Cut to the Chase’? Where exactly are we cutting and what chase are we talking about? To answer these questions, let’s learn a little history lesson about the movies. 

All films from the beginning of the technology in the late 1870s to the first talkie in 1927 were silent movies. Back then, films were simpler. Chase scenes were an exciting way to end a film and it became a popular resort to give the film a good visual climax—a grand finale, so to speak. 

Screenwriters and directors alike, in a desperate attempt to add on to the runtime of their films, would insert unnecessary dialogue and whole scenes that didn’t have much purpose just to give the movie that filler and pad the time before getting to the inevitable chase scene. 

More often than not, this tactic would fail, simply resulting in a bored audience. This is where movie studio executives like Hal Roach Sr. who is thought to have coined the phrase would tell the directors, “Cut to the chase.” So now you know, ‘cut’ is referring to a film cut and the ‘chase’ is the climax of the movie. 

Be sure to use this when your brother or sister is boring you and you want them to get on with their story! Next time we’ll be studying the term ‘Soap Opera’. Until then, Cut to the Chase. And, as always, thanks for reading. 

- John

Hey, Camp Folks!

Ready to let loose the animal within? Aspiring animal callers often experiment with vocal techniques and mouth positions to mimic the sounds they've heard. This may involve practicing various vocalizations, such as grunts, squeals, or chirps, until they can produce convincing imitations of their target animals. Some callers also use specialized tools, such as handheld calls or electronic devices, to enhance their vocalizations and attract animals from a distance.

As they gain experience and confidence, animal callers continue to refine their techniques through trial and error, fine-tuning their calls to achieve maximum effectiveness. They may also seek guidance from experienced mentors or attend workshops and seminars to learn advanced techniques and strategies for successful animal calling. Here are some reasons to get your animal calls down!

Hunting

Hunters often use animal calls to attract game animals such as deer, elk, predators, and waterfowl. By mimicking the sounds of mating calls, distress calls, or other vocalizations, hunters can lure animals within range for a successful hunt.

Wildlife Observation and Photography

Wildlife enthusiasts and photographers may use animal calls to attract animals for observation, photography, or research purposes. By imitating the calls of specific animal species, observers can draw animals closer for a closer look or to capture images in their natural habitat.

Scientists and researchers may use animal calls to study animal behavior, communication patterns, and population dynamics. By recording and analyzing animal vocalizations, researchers can gather data on species distribution, habitat use, and social interactions to inform conservation efforts.

Recreation and Entertainment

Animal calling can be a recreational activity enjoyed by outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. Some individuals develop skills in imitating animal calls as a hobby or for entertainment purposes, participating in calling contests or performances.

So, that’s the wild and wonderful world of animal calling! A fun and useful practice for any seasoned hunter, a curious observer, or just someone who loves a good outdoor challenge! The next time you find yourself in the great outdoors, don't be afraid to give it a try and see what kind of critters you can call forth. Who knows? You might just make a few new friends along the way! Thanks for reading, Folks! And, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey, Klean Campers!

At Everything Summer Camp, we don’t like to call anybody freak…but in this case we’ll make an exception. Say goodbye to feeling grimy and sweaty during your summer adventures! Klean Freak Body Wipes is at your side to keep you feeling clean, refreshed, and ready for anything! Born out of a memorable camping mishap in Zion National Park, Klean Freak quickly became a go-to for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an easy way to stay clean on the go.

Freshen up in seconds—no shower required!

These wipes are packed with natural ingredients like Aloe, Witch Hazel, and a Chamomile/Calendula blend to provide cooling comfort and soothing relief to your skin. Plus, with the added bonus of sweet chestnut leaf extract, you can keep your skin healthy and fight against staph infections, all while enjoying your summer adventures to the fullest.

The Jug, Klean Freak’s flagship product, contains 120 wipes made from wood pulp and plant fibers, fully compostable and eco-friendly. Whether you're heading to summer camp, exploring the wilderness, or just hustling on-the-go, The Jug has got you covered. And with invigorating scents like Coconut, Tea Tree, Citrus, Peppermint, Lavender, as well as a Scent-Free wipe.
 
Perfect for kids of all ages, Klean Freak Body Wipes are pH balanced, alcohol-free, and safe for use anywhere on the body. Additionally, they have a shelf life of three years unopened, so you can stock up and stay fresh all summer long.

So say goodbye to dryness and discomfort at summer camp and, instead, say hello to clean, refreshed skin with Klean Freak Body Wipes. Whether you're hitting the wilderness trails, lounging by the lake, or roasting marshmallows around the campfire, make sure you're prepared for anything with Klean Freak. Get yours today and stay fresh on all your summer adventures! Stay Klean, Camp Folks! Till next time. Thanks for reading and, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey there, Martial Arts Explorers!

Martial arts have been a hit at summer camps for years, and for good reason. As campers don their uniforms and step onto the mat, they embark on a journey of self-discovery, physical fitness, and personal growth. From learning striking techniques to mastering grappling moves, martial arts at summer camp offer an exciting blend of discipline and fun.

Just like tennis, martial arts has a rich history dating back centuries. Originating from various cultures around the world, martial arts have evolved into a diverse array of styles and disciplines. Whether it's karate from Japan, taekwondo from Korea, or Brazilian jiu-jitsu from Brazil, campers have the opportunity to explore different martial arts traditions and techniques.

At summer camp, there are all kinds of martial arts to try, like karate, taekwondo, and judo. You can pick the one that looks the most fun or try them all! 

Martial arts have been around for a really long time, like way back in ancient times! People all over the world do martial arts, and it's really cool to learn about different cultures and traditions.

So, if you want to be a ninja or a karate master, join the fun at summer camp! It's going to be a blast, and you'll learn so much while having the best time ever. Get ready to kick, punch, and grapple your way to success at summer camp!  Thanks for reading, Martial Arts Explorers. And, as always, Happy Camping!

- John

Hey there, Campers! 

In the exciting world of summer camp, where kids delve into a multitude of activities, from soccer to swimming, there's a fascinating connection to be found with the grandfather of rocketry himself—Dr. Robert Hutchings Goddard. Let's blast off into the world of rockets and see how Dr. Goddard changed the game.

Way back in 1926, Dr. Goddard built the world's very first rocket that could fly using liquid fuel. It was a big moment for him and physics! Dr. Goddard didn't stop there—he and his team launched lots more rockets, going really high and really fast—over 500 miles per hour.

Today, we have places like the Goddard Space Flight Center named after him to commemorate all the great work he did. Try your hand at rocketry during your time at summer camp! Maybe you'll build your own rocket one day or discover something no one else has thought of before. Camp is a place where dreams take flight like Dr. Goddard's rockets!

So, as you run around and have fun at camp, remember the amazing story of Dr. Goddard. He showed us that anything is possible if you believe in yourself and never give up. Who knows—maybe one day, you'll reach for the stars and make your own dreams come true!

Are you interested in learning about rocketry this coming summer camp season? Tell us about it in the comments! Until next time, happy camping and keep reaching for the stars! Thanks for reading and, as always, Happy Camping!

- John