What was your first year at camp, and who or what brought you to WEHC?
My first year at WEHC was 2015. Two of my cousins (Josh and Ben Daigle) went to camp as campers and counselors so I heard about it through them.
Do you have a nickname at camp?
My nickname at camp is Babb. It has always been, and that will never change. A lot of new campers think it’s my first name, actually.
How many years have you attended camp as a camper and counselor?
I spent 5 summers as a camper. This will be my third year on staff, and my ninth overall.
What are your first memories of West End?
Being on the bongo with Corey Perkins as it started to downpour on us. It was terrifying then, but hilarious now. My first watermelon game at camp really sticks out to me.
What were your favorite camp activities as a camper? As a counselor?
As a camper my top three were:
- Watermelon
- Elections
- Challenge the staff (Mainly because of the game categories)
As a staff man I loved running Fortnite with Josh Wolf.
What is your favorite meal in the mess hall?
This might be controversial, but deli sandwiches are my favorite. Hamburgers and hotdogs are also up there for me.
What is your favorite camp memory?
Probably winning my first Color War in 2016. It’s the best feeling after those five days to be the team on top.
What is it that keeps you coming back to WEHC?
The feeling of being part of a community that no one understands unless you’ve been a part of it.
Can you share a funny story from or about camp?
When I was a camper in 4B we accidentally made a hole in the floor of our bunk. Remember it still kills me to this day.
What is the best Color War memory you have?
When I got to play Jordan Leppo in the White Showtime skit. I think I did a fine job portraying Mr. Leppo.
A life lesson you learned from going to West End House Camp?
Having a strong and supportive community around you is a beautiful thing to have in life.
Steve Lepler and Bill Margolin mean a lot to so many people, how have they had an influence on your life?
Both Steve and Bill have shown me how you can positively impact someone’s life forever. When you hear people talk about them you always hear something like “They changed my life forever” or “I wouldn’t be where I am today without them”. That’s so special.
What does it mean to be ‘one of the boys’, and how important is that to you?
To me, it means that it doesn’t matter if you are still at camp or not, you will forever be a West Ender. It means a lot, and is something I can always remind myself when I’m not at camp.
Can you give an example of a random West End run in or connection you’ve had outside of camp?
I can’t think of any. I live in Maine, and my camp friends live in Massachusetts or elsewhere. I am going to see Liam Grabie in a few weeks though, so that’s fun!
Did we miss anything you’d like to share?
Nothing, except that I can’t wait to see you all this upcoming summer. Happy holidays to you all!
