Director's Corner, Sunday, August 2, 2026

Sunday, August 2, 2026

Clap along if you feel like a room without a roof
(Because I'm happy)
Clap along if you feel like happiness is the truth
(Because I'm happy)
Clap along if you know what happiness is to you
(Because I'm happy)
Clap along if you feel like that's what you wanna do

Today reminded us that some of the best memories at camp aren't defined by where we went, they're defined by who we shared them with.

Whether campers spent the day at the zoo or at the Renaissance Faire, the destination was only part of the experience. Long after the details of the exhibits or attractions fade, they'll remember the conversations on the bus, the laughter with friends, and the feeling of spending the day together. That's one of the quiet gifts of camp: ordinary moments become extraordinary because they're shared.

I was reminded of that during GA tonight. As I walked around camp, I spent some time talking with a group of our Senior Ramot campers. They shared how much fun they had this summer, how much closer they had become as friends over the past four weeks, and how excited they are to return next summer as Pioneers and begin their leadership journey. We never talked about a single activity. We talked about friendships, growth, and what Beber has meant to them. It was a simple conversation, but one that perfectly captured what camp is all about.

As you'll read below, today was filled with adventure and fun. And tonight, during our five-year camper speeches, we were reminded once again that the memories our oldest campers treasure most aren't just about activities, they're about the people who turned those experiences into something unforgettable.

Our camp day began bright and early with our 8am degel (flagpole), followed by a delicious breakfast of egg and cheese sandwiches and warm cinnamon rolls. After breakfast, campers met with their groups and gathered for group photos before heading off on today's exciting adventures.

Our Kesher and Ramot campers packed their lunches and departed for the Renaissance Faire! In past summers, the Renaissance Faire has only been a First Session tradition, so with some scheduling changes this year, everyone was especially excited to have the opportunity to experience it. Campers spent the day enjoying the lively atmosphere, delicious food, and incredible costumes that brought history to life.

Meanwhile, our Makor campers headed to the Milwaukee County Zoo for a day filled with fun, friendship, and fascinating animals. One of the highlights was the Sky Safari, a chairlift-style ride that carried our campers above the zoo, offering a unique bird's-eye view of many of the animal exhibits. It was a memorable way to experience the zoo from a whole new perspective.

After returning to camp, everyone had time to shower before gathering once again at degel. We then enjoyed a delicious barbecue dinner together on the Island, taking advantage of another beautiful summer evening.

Following GA, the entire camp came together in Crown Hall for one of our most important, meaningful traditions: five-year speeches. Our five-year campers and staff shared thoughtful, heartfelt reflections on their camp journeys, filling the room with laughter, memories, and plenty of emotion. 

One thing that really stood out to me tonight was the number of shoutouts campers gave to their Mishpachot, Maccabiah teams, and pen pals. Hearing those acknowledgments was a powerful reminder that the connections formed at Beber extend far beyond a single cabin or even a single summer. They speak to the incredible sense of community that exists here—not just during the weeks we're together at camp, but throughout the entire year. Beber truly is All Summer, All Year, All Life, and these camp friendships that were shouted out tonight are at the heart of what makes Beber such a special place.

This evening was a wonderful celebration of the friendships, growth, and experiences that make Beber so wonderful. Read some quotes from tonight that stood out to me below:

Lastly, I want to thank my parents, who send me to my home away from home every summer. I’ve had five incredible summers, and I’m looking forward to five more. (Mia D., G2)

Our number one 3BC community is the lifelong friendships we have made at our home away from home. (Bella G. and Dani M., T1)

This is all so crazy, everybody seems so happy…it’s a party at Beber Camp! (Mia S. and Ruby R., T2, to the tune of “Party in the U.S.A.”)

The people make the place. (Eli N., A1)

Our fifth favorite memory is knowing we get to come back every year and make more. (Hailey D., Hannah G., and Rachel G., T4)

To all of our five-year campers, thank you for everything you have brought to our camp community over the years. I am so proud of each of you, and I hope this milestone is just the beginning. We can't wait to see you back for at least five more summers!

Peace, Love, 3BC,
Michael

Yesterday's song was "Thank You for the Music" by ABBA. Congratulations to our correct answers:

• Lillie Burkons
• Jenny Wood

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