After a full week of fun, bonding, and learning at orientation, the Starlight counselors and staff couldn’t wait to welcome campers from across the U.S.A. There was a high level of excitement and anticipation to see new and returning campers. Two o’clock rushed in and the first buses came. The music was playing and the kids quickly made their way off each bus, running toward the bunk number signs held by cheering counselors. As a new staff member, witnessing the campers’ excitement upon seeing the familiar faces of their old counselors and camp friends really generated an amazing atmosphere. New campers seemed to quickly settle in to their beloved summer home.
Before long, it was difficult to tell which campers had stepped off the buses for the first time that afternoon, and which had done it before. Ice breakers and team building games filled the remainder of the afternoon. After evening lineup, dinner rules were explained, songs were sung, and the kids were pumped for evening activity–The Camp Starlight Summer of 2010 Opening Night Show. The show was filled with traditional Starlight camp songs and key staff introductions through dancing and singing, as well as performances from new staff. A sense of unity pervaded as the show culminated with Friends. The ecstatic energy I experienced today was a fantastic start to Starlight’s 64th summer. Bring on the next seven weeks!
Dan
New Camper Day!
