Dear 3rd Session Families,
Hard to believe we are already half-way through the session! The last few days have been filled with lots of fun, as well as wonderful and meaningful moments.
On Sunday night and Monday morning, the Kochavim (7th graders), Chalutzim (8th graders), Seniors (9th graders), and JCITs (10th graders) participated in a program with Jewish World Watch focusing on the situation in Darfur, and how as Jews we should take lessons from the Holocaust as victims of genocide, and our obligation to take a stance against genocide perpetrated against other peoples. On Sunday night, they discussed the background of situation, and watched clips from a documentary on NBA star Tracy McGrady’s trip to a refugee camp in Darfur. On Monday, they participated in a “day in the life” program that simulated a taste of life in the refugee camps. Each bunk represented a family, and each camper was given an identity card for a member of that family. As a family, they worked together to collect their water and food rations for the day, used solar cookers to cook their meal, and debriefed about the experience and its impact.
On Monday during Alo-Options (free time) we were treated to a spirited softball game between the CIT women (11th graders) amd the Sabra boys (3rd – 5th graders). The Sabra boys proved to have lots of chutzpah (determination) and prevailed!
Divisions have begun to have their bunk nights (a special night of activities and bonding by), which are a true highlight of the session for every camper!
On Tuesday, the CITs (11th graders) introduced MSA (Mischakim Shel Alonim, the Games of Alonim) during lunch. Through Wednesday night, the camp is divided up into teams, competing in a series of games and proving that they have the most ruach (spirit). MSA will culminate in a carnival planned by the JCITs (10th graders).
Since our last email, we have had 4 campers go home with flu-like symptoms to recuperate. We look forward to welcoming them back next week, and continue our efforts to ensure the health and safety of all members of the Alonim community.
We are looking forward to another exciting week and a half here at camp!
B’Shalom,
Jordanna Flores
Executive Director, Camp Alonim