The Champions: Julian's Private Scrapbook

The Champions is the 5th in the Scrapbook series. It explores the world from the eyes of a young gay boy. His needs and desires are looked at honestly, with a sense of humor and without the baggage of present day prejudice. It’s important to actively combat the bullying of gay teens. Bullies get away with it because society is ignorant about these boys. By enlightening people, this series deals with that. Let there be no more suicides, no more bashing. Twelfth Day Eleven days ago, Mark Schaeffer brought his scout troop to Camp Walker for its annual two-week summer camp. This is his fifth camp as a scoutmaster, and the most momentous for him personally and professionally. His decision on the first day to house Julian in the cabin has proven to be a success for Julian, and unexpectedly, for himself. His intent was to shield Julian from extra-curricular encounters. Julian has had an unexpected impact; his own life goals are being examined anew. The last three days of camp are packed with activity. Merit badges have to be awarded, competitions held and goodbyes made. There is unfinished personal business to complete, and there are campsites to close. A few new developments manage to find their way into the story. Julian makes two bulls-eyes in Archery. Afterward, he asks Leonard to critique his drawing of Geoff being treated at the first aid station. Leonard is amazed at the quality of the work, and at the impact of seeing Geoff’s image. Julian’s fascination with the curmudgeonly camp Ranger continues. He and Sarge develop a special relationship. We get to know more about this man and how Julian has managed to change his outlook on life. Tom provides a spectacular finale for Freddy’s Shooting Gallery. Julian does a large portrait of Mark. Mark is overwhelmed by its character and quality. Geoff arrives at the cabin just before midnight. He re-injures himself on the way. Thirteenth Day: It takes Mark over two hours to deliver Geoff back to Hawk camp. Temptations along the way are overcome. The last full day of camp is packed with activity. Danny returns to his regular duties. Doug revises his scheme to entrap Julian a second time and snags Danny instead. Danny and Tony skip out on Tom’s time trials. Leonard sees the opportunity and takes delight in serving as matchmaker. He believes that the conservative Danny needs anti-establishment Tony to bring his life into balance. Leonard is stunned by the portrait of Uncle Max, and its ability to depict the old man’s innate kindness. Julian presents Leonard his portrait. Its uncanny depiction of Leonard’s innate sensuality is a shock; Leonard is flattered, delighted, and frightened. He hides it under his table until he can get it safely away. The last afternoon free swimming period is the scene for several key developments. Geoff finds the way to guarantee his rendezvous with Leonard. Stan is schooled by Tom about the realities of romantic involvement. Tony pays an after hours visit to Danny. Fourteenth Day: Sarge searches for a special item to give to Julian. After the awards are made, Julian supervises the return of the featherbed mattresses. Uncle Max asks Julian to stay behind; he presents a gift, a memento from his World War II days. Geoff meets Leonard in the storeroom; Julian’s portrait of Leonard serves a special purpose. On the bus trip home, Mark gives personal thanks to Nick for mentoring Julian, and Tom has a brief talk with Robin about Jack. The parents are waiting to meet the bus. Julian reflects on how things stand. He renews his commitment to the long range goal of winning Mark as a life partner. He is confident that he is up to the task. He realizes that he has to face his responsibilities as a son, and that he needs to plan for his career. He will be entering high school in the fall.