Dear Families of Camp Maas,
Opening ceremony on the first night of camp is one of my favorite events.
Second night show is my second favorite. Campers get together, their eyes wide open, excited to meet their staff, supervisors and specialty areas. They are introduced to the greatest summer song so far “Dream and Shine,” and, as if they were here forever, they pick up all the dance moves, making all of us proud.
I also love these evening programs as it allows us to see our staff operate together, to sense the dynamics, and feel the vibe. When Sean, Carly and I hire in England, or when Lee and I attend the Israeli staff training, we can only dream and imagine how it will all come together, what will come out of this puzzle we are working with such passion to bring together.
And so here they are – staff from Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, England, Sweden, and Israel – marching with their flags up and down the aisles. American staff from more than 10 states waiving the American flags and singing; those moments make my heart skip a bit, as it reflects the community we build here, the home we create for so many people around the globe. Village by village, the counselors, specialists, and TSS/Junior Counselors came on stage with their song, dance, or skit, welcoming their campers for the new session. Mishpacha. Best staff, happy campers.
In between the shows every specialty area had prepared a fun video that gave a taste of what is coming (i.e., the cool programs campers are going to experience!). We also revealed the Cornerstone program – Shababiah (Shabbat Maccabiah), the All Camp Dance Show theme (The Lion King), and, finally, the All Camp Play (Moana). We sang our Dream and Shine again and sent the campers back to their villages with smiles on their faces, and exciting programs to look forward to.
We have the best camp, we for sure have the best staff, and I am lucky, like our campers, to be a part of the best summer in the greatest place on earth!
Tomer Moked
Program Director