Director's Corner, Wednesday, July 1, 2026

Wednesday, July 1, 2026

What doesn't kill you makes you stronger
Stand a little taller
Doesn't mean I'm lonely when I'm alone
What doesn't kill you makes a fighter
Footsteps even lighter
Doesn't mean I'm over 'cause you're gone
What doesn't kill you makes you stronger, stronger

This afternoon I had the chance to do something that reminded me why I love camp so much. I was asked to spend some time at the waterfront driving boats for our TLP campers, and I honestly had as much fun as they did.

Many of these campers I've known for six, seven, even eleven summers. I remember them as nervous first-year campers learning to swim or trying waterskiing for the first time. Today, I watched them confidently slalom ski, wakeboard, and challenge themselves to learn new skills. It is amazing how quickly time passes, but even more amazing to see how much they have grown.

I found myself doing what I love most–teaching. Offering a few pointers, celebrating their successes, encouraging them after a missed attempt, and watching their confidence build with every pass across the lake. Moments like these remind me that growth at camp doesn't happen all at once. It happens one conversation, one challenge, and one small success at a time. Watching these young people develop over the years has been one of the greatest privileges of my job.

Our Makor campers kept the excitement of Makor Mania going today with a day full of laughter, adventure, and unforgettable memories! They cooled off by canoeing on the water, raced through the sprinklers to beat the summer heat, and took the stage for an exciting lip sync battle, where they showcased their creativity, confidence, and enthusiasm. From cheering one another on to sharing plenty of laughs, the day was filled with fun, friendship, and Makor pride.

To end another fantastic day, our Makor boys and girls switched up last night's evening activities. Our O campers enjoyed a cozy movie night in Crown Hall, while our K campers relaxed around the firepit on upper camp, sharing campers' stew, roasting s'mores, and spending quality time together. They also had an amazing night hike with Swany!

I've been receiving regular updates from our three-day trip leaders, and our Kesher and Ramot campers are continuing to have an incredible time! I also wanted to share a few more highlights from the rest of our trips that I didn't get a chance to include yesterday:

Climbing: Our climbers have spent the last couple of days exploring breathtaking landscapes, taking on challenging yet rewarding climbs, and hiking through a beautiful state park. Along the way, they've experienced rock climbing, bouldering, hiking, and rappelling, all surrounded by incredible scenery. Today began with breakfast at the campsite before the group met up with Apex Adventures for a day of climbing on natural rock faces. They even learned how to belay one another, building both their climbing skills and teamwork. After an exciting day on the rock, they relaxed by the lake, cooking dinner together and enjoying great food and even better company. To wrap up an unforgettable trip, the group will head out tomorrow morning for a spectacular sunrise hike, where they'll take in stunning views of the lake as they celebrate an amazing, adventurous three-day trip.

Fishing: Our campers have had an unforgettable fishing adventure on Lake Michigan over the past couple of days! They kicked off the trip by relaxing on the beach, swimming in the lake, and exploring the scenic trails of a nearby state park. Today was packed with excitement as they set out on Lake Michigan for an incredible day of salmon and trout fishing. Aboard the charter boats with Reel Action Charters, campers enjoyed the thrill of reeling in impressive catches while taking in the beauty of the open water. To top off an amazing day, they gathered for a delicious meal featuring the (39!) fresh fish they caught themselves for a perfect ending to an unforgettable outdoor adventure.

Backpacking: Our senior Ramot-only backpacking trip has been filled with memorable adventures over the past few days as campers have hiked through scenic prairies and peaceful forests along a beautiful state forest trail. Between hikes, they enjoyed time at the beach, cooling off in the refreshing water and soaking up the sunshine. More than just an outdoor adventure, this backpacking trip gives our senior campers the opportunity to strengthen their confidence, build outdoor skills, and deepen their friendships. 

We have wrapped up another incredible camp day! Stay tuned to see what the coming days bring.

Peace, Love, 3BC,
Michael

Yesterday's song was "Life is a Highway" by Rascal Flatts. Congratulations to our correct answers:

• Daniel LaDeur
• Courtney Mendelsohn
• Amy Bloomberg
• Tobi Pinsky

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