Director's Corner - Friday, August 2
Friday, August 2, 2024
“Hold on to the Nights”
Hold on to the nights
Hold on to the memories
I wish that I could give you
Something more
That I could be yours
What a gorgeous day it's been here at Beber Camp, marking a fantastic final Friday of the session. Gathering together at the flagpole this morning was a heartwarming sight, and the dining hall buzzed with its familiar energy. As we approach the campers' departure next week, I already know I'll miss them dearly.
Sadly we said goodbye to our PIOs this morning. I am really going to miss them but I am already counting the days until they are back here as CITs. They have grown so much and shown so many impressive qualities. I know that they have had a very meaningful summer filled with memories.
This morning's cabin activities were a blast. B1 embarked on a ropes adventure with Thom, tackling various challenges with creativity and teamwork. It's wonderful to see our area directors tailor these activities to their expertise. Meanwhile, G2 enjoyed paddling on our giant paddle board, big enough to hold a whole cabin. K4 mastered their skills at bracelet making and beading in arts and crafts choice and O6 and O4 tapped into their creative side with Maddie’s Music and Ciara's Theatrical Experience. Our cabin activity program has truly bonded our bunks through incredible shared experiences, showcasing the breadth of what Beber has to offer.
Today also marked the start of our final round of hobbies, and it's been a delight seeing campers explore new interests. With Flappy Man waving in the wind, campers gathered at the Hobby Wheel ready to dive into their final week of hobbies. I'm particularly excited for Sunday’s performances by our rock bands, dance hobbies, movie making and the display of art projects at Beber Fine Arts Fest. It'll be a proud moment for them to showcase their accomplishments. The waterfront was bustling as usual, with campers diving into a range of exciting programs from windsurfing to fishing.
Meals today were a treat, from egg and hash browns for breakfast to pizza and Caesar salad for lunch. Dinner brought us our traditional Shabbat feast with roasted chicken and homemade challah that was simply divine.
Tonight, we celebrated our final Friday night of the first session with a beautiful Shabbat gathering. Seeing our campers come together in their Shabbat attire for photos was touching. Our Jewish Life team recited the prayer for the children, and campers placed a hand on the head of another member in their bunk while standing in a circle. What an incredible sight! We have even added a processional up to the dining hall where we light the menorah in front of Crown Hall like we used to do several years ago. The bonds forged over the past weeks were palpable during our Shabbat Schmooze, where expressions of gratitude flowed freely among bunks.
During services, Jon Fields, a former Beber staff member who recently arrived at camp to lead our Ramot biking trip, brought back "There Once Was a Wizard," a staple in our Friday services when he was on staff. This fun biblical cheer was well received by the campers.
The community-based service, where campers are active participants and leaders, created a welcoming environment for everyone. Israeli Dance was incredible and even included the two dances that the campers learned on Israel Day. We danced the night away until we moved into song sessions. The spirited song sessions filled the air, and the energy was infectious as campers sang beloved songs like "Hinei Ma Tov" and the "Beber Boogie" with full hearts. Each camper is savoring every moment here at camp.
As the night drew to a close, I reflected once again on the unique and inclusive community we've built here—a place where everyone is celebrated for who they are. It's moments like these that make Beber Camp truly special.
Wishing everyone a restful night and a meaningful Shabbat alongside us.
P.S. Congratulations to the following who knew that John Denver sang "Country Roads.”
Amy L
Wendy E
Franci F
Dennis P
Jessica F
Amy B
P.S. - Today’s question: Who sang “Hold on to the Nights?” Email your answer to trivia@bebercamp.com for a shoutout in tomorrow’s blog!