Director's Corner, Monday, August 3, 2026

Monday, August 3, 2026

You, who are on the road
Must have a code you try to live by
And so become yourself
Because the past is just a goodbye

Teach your children well
Their father's hell did slowly go by
Feed them on your dreams
The one they pick's the one you'll know by

There comes a moment every summer that almost sneaks up on you.

It's not marked by a ceremony or an award. Instead, it's when one of our oldest campers realizes they've become the person they once looked up to. They're encouraging a younger camper, leading with confidence, or simply carrying themselves in a way that reflects what years of calling Beber home can do.

Over the past few weeks, I've had the chance to spend time with many of our Senior Ramot campers. As I mentioned last night, this group has often shared how much closer they've grown as friends this summer and how excited they are to begin their Pioneer journey next year. As I continue to listen to these stories, it strikes me that they’re already becoming the leaders they once admired.

That's the beauty of camp. Each generation learns from the one before it, and before they know it, they're inspiring the next. Today was another reminder that while we were making memories, we were also shaping the next chapter of Beber's story.

Many of our campers began making memories today well before the rest of the world was awake during one of our most cherished Beber traditions: Swim the Lake!

Once each session, campers from across age groups and cabins have the opportunity to swim the length of our beloved Lake Beulah. Before sunrise, they gather at the waterfront and quietly cruise across the lake in wakeless ski boats, enjoying the peaceful stillness of the early morning as excitement builds. After stepping onto a dock on the opposite shore, they turn around and swim all the way back to camp, greeting the day one stroke at a time.

For some campers, Swim the Lake is a chance to challenge themselves and show off their strongest strokes. For others, it's an opportunity to enjoy a leisurely swim, floating alongside friends and taking in the beauty of the morning. No matter their pace or personal goal, every participant shares the same unforgettable experience: encouraging one another, celebrating each accomplishment, and strengthening the sense of community that makes Beber Camp so special. The cheers at the finish line were just as meaningful as the swim itself, as campers took pride not only in their own achievement but in the success of their friends as well.

Once our swimmers returned, took warm showers, and rejoined their cabins, we all started the morning with fresh, delicious waffles, which fueled everyone for an exciting hobby day! The weather couldn't have been more perfect. Brilliant blue skies and warm sunshine set the stage, and the ruach around camp matched the beautiful day. Campers and counselors alike were smiling from ear to ear as they headed off to their first hobby.

After Hobby 1, everyone gathered for a fantastic lunch: creamy mac 'n' cheese served alongside broccoli and some delicious salad bar options. Following a well-earned rest hour, campers jumped right back into the fun with Hobby 2 and Hobby 3, continuing to explore new interests, build skills, and make lasting memories in the sunshine.

Our Senior Ramot campers enjoyed an unforgettable afternoon as they headed out on their senior trip to Lake Geneva! Our Senior Ramot campers look forward to this trip as one of the highlights of the summer, and it is safe to say from my catchup with them when they returned to camp that today was everything they were looking forward to and more. Before returning to camp, our seniors made a special stop at one of our favorite local partners, The Elegant Farmer. They were treated to a delicious dinner, followed by an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour, giving them a unique look at the beloved Wisconsin destination that has become a cherished Beber Camp tradition.

Back at camp, dinner featured barbecue pulled chicken sandwiches, corn, and curly fries before everyone gathered for GA, where campers competed and cheered on their friends during our exciting all-star soccer game. The evening continued with one of the highlights of the summer: our Fine Arts Fest!

The talent, creativity, and confidence on display at Fine Arts Fest tonight were nothing short of inspiring. Campers lit up the stage with energetic dance performances and rocked out in their bands. We also enjoyed incredible videos created by our Fine Arts hobbies, including moviemaking short films, recording studio productions, and even creative TikToks from our TikTok cabin activity. It was a joyful celebration of everything our campers have been creating and working toward.

One of the most meaningful moments of the evening wasn't on the stage at all. As performances unfolded, many of our Ramot campers chose to sit alongside Makor cabins, cheering them on with the same enthusiasm they showed for their own friends. It was a wonderful reminder of the connections that grow across age groups at Beber Camp and the caring, inclusive community our campers build together throughout the summer. Our oldest campers truly are becoming the people they once looked up to.

Days like today showcase what makes Beber so special: beautiful weather, enthusiastic campers, meaningful experiences, and countless opportunities for every camper to discover something they love. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.

Peace, Love, 3BC,
Michael

Yesterday's song was "Happy" by Pharrell Williams. Congratulations to our correct answers:

• Nicole Jamison-Dinowitz
• Julie Brodsky
• Lillie Burkons
• Amy Bloomberg

Can you name the artist behind "Teach Your Children?" Send your guess to trivia@bebercamp.com, and I'll reveal the answer in tomorrow's blog.