Director's Corner - Saturday, June 29
Saturday June 29, 2024
Unstoppable
I'm unstoppable
I'm a Porsche with no brakes
I'm invincible
Yeah, I win every single game
I'm so powerful
I don't need batteries to play
I'm so confident
Yeah, I'm unstoppable today
Unstoppable today
Unstoppable today
Unstoppable today
I'm unstoppable today
Today at camp, we enjoyed a delightful second Shabbat. In the early morning, our campers cherished their time in the morning with GA, engaging in activities like basketball, socializing with friends, or simply relaxing in their bunks. The morning was serene, starting with a scenic breakfast on the island—a refreshing break from the usual camp routine.
The services at Crown Hall were led with great spirit by Lara and our music team. We've introduced new songs that have been warmly embraced by everyone at camp. It's been heartwarming to see campers and staff eagerly volunteering to read Torah during our Saturday services. Additionally, our Cornerstone Fellows delighted us with their unique Saturday Torah Live puppet show, skillfully sharing the Torah's stories in a way that resonates with everyone.
During Mikud (reflection time), I had the opportunity to move around camp and listen to different cabins express times they were courageous, guided by questions from our Jewish life team. It was incredibly touching to witness campers gathering in various spots—whether in the treehouse, on the deck by the program office, or in circles throughout camp—to share their personal stories and their gratitude for the friendships they've formed, their counselors, and the simple joy of being at Beber this summer. Hearing their stories was truly inspiring.
After a delicious lunch featuring a sandwich bar with all the trimmings, campers enjoyed rest hour—a daily time for them to stay in their bunks. During this period, they have the option to rest, write letters, play quiet games, or simply bond with their bunkmates. A counselor, known as the Shomer (guard in Hebrew), remains with them during this hour and after 10:30 PM when other staff members have some free time. This ensures constant supervision and safety for our campers throughout the day. We want you to feel reassured that your campers are always cared for and under supervision here at Beber, with their safety as our top priority.
After rest hour, each division began their Saturday rotations including time at the pool. For their Maccabi games this week, divisions played a rousing game of capture the flag which energized all of the campers in a spirited game. For Shabbat programming, Makor played courage charades, Kesher participated in a scavenger/spy hunt around camp, working as a bunk, and Ramot participated in a spies and guides program tapping into their leadership skills and teamwork. All three programs tied into this week's Torah portion which allows our campers to learn while having fun! The PIOs ran their version of Maccabi Games as an Olympics drawing on a theme that has seemed to permeate all divisions here at camp. These activities as well as a few others thrown in all helped to show that courage can come in many ways and that speaking up or sharing different ideas can take courage.
At Degel (flagpole), we honored our Rookie and 8 weeks campers. To tie in to the Shabbat Theme of courage we wanted to honor those who came to camp for the first time and those that choose to spend their entire summer on the shores of Lake Beulah, both of which take courage.
After lunch, we assisted our Rookie campers in packing their belongings—a reminder that two weeks have flown by in a blink. I'm incredibly proud of them for embracing new activities, stepping out of their comfort zones, and forging lasting friendships. Witnessing their growth over this short period has been remarkable. While it's bittersweet to see them depart, I'm eagerly anticipating their return next summer for the full session. I wish them a year of LO-HE-HA (Love, Health and Happiness)!
We concluded our Shabbat with a community-wide Havdalah in the AmPIOtheater. Following the announcement of the week's cleanest cabins and a kitschy song from our division leaders, camp was given the news of a very special day tomorrow! Our Israeli staff stormed the stage introducing Israel Day to the camp. Tomorrow, we'll celebrate the Jewish value of Love of Israel. With passionate Israeli staff members this summer, our campers are in for an enriching experience as they share their love for Israel and celebrate our Jewish identity. Don't forget to wear your Blue and White tomorrow!
Our CITs began their day with a tour of Camp Shwayder and a hike on trails that back up to the camp facilities. They traveled this evening to Rocky Mountain Village Camp where they will spend their internship working as leaders and supporting camp operations gaining valuable experience as they begin their transition from campers to counselors. They are having a great time together and the landscape has been breathtaking!
Meals:
- Breakfast: Grab and go on the Island
- Lunch: Sandwiches, fixings, chips and salad bar
- Dinner: Ravioli baked with cheese, green beans and garlic bread
In closing, these past two weeks have been filled with memorable moments and meaningful connections. Tomorrow will bring a mix of emotions as we bid farewell to our rookies and cap off the day with our Israel Day Carnival. All of this joy and camaraderie reminds me of how fortunate we are to be together in this special place. Here at Beber we are “Unstoppable”
P.S. Congratulations to those who knew that The Turtles sang “Happy Together!”
Christie B
Who sang “Unstoppable?” Email your answer to trivia@bebercamp.com for a shoutout in tomorrow’s blog!