Promptly after breakfast, we gathered around the flagpole for the first time this summer. Returning counselor Russell Cohen took the lead, and we sang HaTikvah and God Bless America and discussed our morning schticks once camp begins. The rest of the morning was a mix of work and play. Between sessions on safety procedures, Aaron helped us “get after it” with a rousing game of Wizards, Elves, Giants. (You’ll just have to wait and see it for yourself!) 

Next, after an impromptu bubble blowing party, our Jewish Program Director Alex Manalych led a discussion on incorporating Jewish values into camp programming. Head staff completed a similar activity when they arrived two weeks ago. After a quick group discussion units broke off into individual meetings to choose what Jewish values they will focus on each session. Jared talked us through programming for the summer (traditional and never-seen-before) that we can’t wait to share with the campers! Even rain won’t get us down at EKC—our programmers are unstoppable! 

The remainder of the evening was spent together, bonding with old and new friends. We reunited at the basketball court for an epic relay crossword puzzle and sikummim to think about the jam-packed planning sessions. And what would camp be without Mason leading a song session at the camp fire to end the day. And did we mention the s’mores? We can’t believe there are only 5 more days until campers arrive. We are so excited to see you come down that “country road”!!