Reunion 2011: 11/26/11

Good morning from Reunion Camp: before we re-cap the events from yesterday, please remember parents that pick-up today is at 1:30. You can proceed directly to the Dining Hall to sign out your child.

Yesterday we rotated through regular activities in the morning and then had our "Party in the USA State Challenge". Teams visited a variety of stations and were challenged to activities related to the state that they were visiting. In Colorado, they climbed the tower and in Texas they did archery. In Alaska, they built "dog sleds", in Hawaii, they did a coconut carrying relay race and in Massachusetts, they did a lay-up relay on the basketball court. Meanwhile, they also visited California to try to spot famous celebrities hidden throughout camp. Luckily, all but one of the hidden celebrities were found.

For evening program, teams entered a contestant into the "Mess" America Pageant and were given time to create the messiest pageant contestant possible. After a talent and Q&A portion of the event, the judges decided that the winner was Caroline from the 2011 CIT class representing Team "Horses". Congratulations Caroline on being named Mess America 2011!

All in all, this has been a terrific reunion weekend, with lots of spirit in the dining hall and fantastic weather. Many thanks to the 11 staff members who returned to camp to work at the reunion this weekend. Hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season!

Jamie

Reunion 2011: 11/25/11

Hi Camp Bernie family,

Reunion is off to a terrific start with unseasonably warm weather-- feels like summer (well, not quite!).

After everyone was checked in and settled into cabins for the weekend, we rotated through two activities in the afternoon yesterday, and groups will rotate through three more this morning. We also kicked off the theme for our mini-all camp day this weekend, "Party in the USA", by splitting campers into their teams and having a poster making competition and cheer off. There will be many more special activities Saturday and Sunday related to that theme.

Of course, we also had campfire last night and were treated to many of our favorite songs and skits. The staff led the kids in "Ram Sam Sam" to start things, and then we saw "The Invisible Bench", "Mogilla Gorilla" and "Bee Bee Give Me Some Honey" among others.

It's great to have the staff and kids back at camp, for sure. We will have more updates tomorrow!

Jamie

August 19, 2011- Last day of summer 2011

Hi everyone,

Last blog of the summer- and what a summer it's been. We've had everything from Romans to Cowboys, and Aliens to Pirates roaming our property this year. Massive thanks to our terrific staff for making everything happen this year.

We had a wild Candleboat Ceremony last night for those that didn't make it here to join us. There were lurking thunderstorms all evening, and we gambled by starting the evening as originally planned with a bonfire on the athletics field. Cody launched a flaming arrow from the zipline platform to ignite the flame- a very impressive display!

Each unit then introduced themselves with a roaring cheer, and performed a song or skit of their choice. About midway through that portion of the night, the storm grew too close for comfort and we made a mad dash to the Pavilion to continue the show. We then presented the following awards:

1: 5 year  camper paddles: Sarah M., Alyssa R., Hailey F., Dannielle F., Caroline P. and Ashley D.
2: 5 year staff paddles: Colleen G., Zach O. and MacKenzie B.
3: 3 year international staff paddles: Lewis W., Cassie B., Deacon M. and Stu M.
4: 10 year paddles: Brandon C. & Melissa K.
5: Character Awards: Aja E. (honesty), Zach T. (caring), Alex S. (respect), Sophie H. (responsibility), Julia F. (Spirit, Mind & Body)
6: Session D Unit Award: The Nation

We wrapped things up with our traditional candle lighting ceremony, a song and then we released 10 Chinese Wish Lanterns into the stormy sky. At that point, after 3 hours of threats, the sky opened up on us with driving rain, thunder and lightning and chunks of hail!! Definitely the most intense storm we had all summer.

Once again- thanks to everyone for making the summer of 2011 so special and memorable. Hope to see many of our campers back for the November Reunion 11/25-11/27.

All the best,

Jamie

August 18, 2011

In case you are wondering, all plans for Candleboat are on as scheduled. Even if storms come our way tonight, we will have a closing ceremony in the Pavilion but we are hopeful for clear skies given the totally awesome plans that are in place!

Last night was the dance, last one of the summer, of course. We also announced the spirit points competition winning cabin, which was Musconetcong (Musky, for short). They enjoyed an ice cream social after dinner to celebrate. Great job Musky!

Hope to see any of you tonight- we begin at 7:30 pm, please be here before that time to be directed to the campfire location. If you can't make it tonight, please remember that pick-up is at 11 am tomorrow- both here at camp or at the Ridgewood YMCA for anyone using the bus transportation. Thanks!

Jamie

August 17, 2011

Thankfully, we are having a beautiful day here at camp, but our fingers are crossed for the rain to stay away through Candleboat tomorrow evening as we have some really cool surprises planned!

Last night was Unit Night- the Shawnees played Great Imposter, the Nation played Capture the Flag and the CITs had a bowling night out. The Pioneers and Iroquois joined up to do a series of things: critter shows, face painting, the power rangers game and Just Dance 2.

Tonight, we will learn the winners of the spirit points competition and they will receive their prize. Every cabin is working for a last minute boost in their standing!

Jamie

August 16, 2011

Our rainy last week continues. We are seriously hoping that things clear up for candleboat (not to mention regular activities during the day).

We were able to run free choice yesterday without major complications. The afternoon was spent indoors however, as kids made preparations for the Mr. and Miss Camp Bernie pageant for evening program. Each cabin was given a staff member to enter into the competition- a female for the boys cabins and a male for the girls. As you can see from today's photo upload, the staff were team players and good sports. Congrats go out to staff members Cody and Meagan for being the beauty pageant winners!

Also- I uploaded three photos from the most recent river trip. Thanks to trip leader Josh for sending them our way.

Jamie

August 15, 2011

Yucky weather here- but we stayed dry in the dining hall nearly all day yesterday. Unfortunately for the CITs, Sunday is their day to plan and run activities for the kids and just about everything they intended to do was cancelled due to the weather. We held chapel in the dining hall, followed by cabin clean-up, lunch and an extended rest hour. Then, in keeping with our Neverland theme, we projected the movie "Hook" in the dining hall and had a nice, relaxing afternoon at the cinema with snacks to share. Evening program was "Name that Tune" which was won by the seemingly unstoppable Musconetcong Cabin. They were the halfway point spirit point winners and were served breakfast in bed by their unit leader Rob on Sunday morning. The full competition continues until Wednesday so we'll see if another cabin can catch Musky!

Jamie

August 14, 2011

Here is the detailed recap from our exciting day in Neverland on Saturday!

After getting into team colors and costumes, we set up for a wild race around camp to Neverland. The race involved mini-bikes, mountain bikes, climbing, archery, canoeing and swimming. The kids were also treated to a staff race, following the same course.

The afternoon was our transformation into Neverland, with each team running a station. There was a pirate ship (hayride), sneezing station (water fights), lost boyd food fights, a croc pit in the pool, flying down the zipline like peter pan, face painting and more. The kids really enjoyed the chance to roam free around camp in a place where you never need to grow up!

Last night, we were joined by our friends from Global Arts to Go who challenged each team to three competitions to wrap up the day. In the end, the winning team was the "Mer-Peeps" with the "Darling Kids and Nana" finishing a close second. Great job by everyone!

Jamie

August 13, 2011 "Never, Neverland"

Avast- finally it be here matey's...

Batten down the hatches and good morn'n from ole Camp Bernie. This seaworthily old camp has magically transformed into th' mystical world o' Ne'er, Neverland. A squadron o' teams will be compet'n in a race t' Neverland this morn'n, in hopes o' enjoy'n a world where we will ne'er have t' grow up!

Th' Darl'n kids an' Nana be here, along wi' crocodiles, pirates, mermaids, mermen, Indians, fairies, th' lost boys an' b'lieve it or nay even th' sneez'n plants. And "Blast My Onion Breath!", evn in our midst be Peter Pan, Tinkerbell an' Rufio himself. This should be an amaz'n day fer our kids an' staff as we venture t' Neverland!

Arrrrr matey's have a foul day an' be lustily jealous o' us here at ole Camp Bernie!

- Jamie "Cap'n Hook himself" Bean

August 12, 2011

For Unit Night, the Nation and Shawnees had a joint campfire in the Nation. Supposedly, they were invaded by the Pioneers who were playing "Power Rangers" (which is pretty much an excuse to chase people with pool noodles!). Meanwhile, the CITs played "Just Dance 2" and the Iroquois did the Giant Swing at twilight.

This morning, overnight camp awoke to a secret prank by the day campers that had spent the night. They had tied yarn from the doorways of all the cabins to trees and other objects around camp. This was revenge for overnight camp deciding to move the day camp check-in tent from one side of flagpole to the other, and, in the original spot, left an actual tent for camping! All in good fun!

Jamie

August 11, 2011

Wednesday at camp was MTV night- a camp favorite. Every cabin performed songs and skits related to MTV- we saw a skit based upon "Disaster Date", another dating game skit and a bunch of lip syncing/dance performances. As always, very creative and entertaining work by the staff and kids.

Today is gorgeous day, and perfect weather for the outgoing canoe trip. Chippewa, Winema and Lopatcong left for the river around 8:30 and will be back tomorrow early in the afternoon. They will paddle from Dingman's Ferry to Smithfield Beach, stopping in a group site for the night. Hopefully we'll be able to upload some photos from their adventures!

Jamie

August 10, 2011

The campers enjoyed their first day of free choice activities yesterday. These are the activities that were finalized on Sunday during orientation, and include specialty programs such as mini-bikes and horseback riding.

Though it rained a bit in the afternoon, a number of activities ran as scheduled since there was no thunder and lightning in the area. The evening was fine weather wise, and therefore, we played all camp scrabble. In this activity, created by our CITs during session C, each cabin has to collect letters hidden around camp. Then, they are challenged to spell as many words as possible. The winning cabin was Musconetcong (Mucky for short) who are out to the early overall lead in our final spirit points chase of the summer!

Jamie

August 9, 2011

Opening Campfire was held last night at the outdoor chapel. We had a wide variety of songs and skits including: Mogilla Gorilla, Banana Phone, a band skit by the male CITs, Time Machine, a skit by Sequoia about a snake and much more. Also, Winema wasted a minute of our time only to be one-upped by the Nation counselors who wasted (an excruciating!) three minutes of our time!

I also awarded Ambassador gifts to three campers: Niya D., Geoff S. and Patricia C. They each referred a friend to camp and as a result, received a gift bag, a tie dye shirt, trading post credit and their choice of two free riding lessons or mini-bike lessons. We'll offer this again next year so hopefully many of our campers will take advantage of this easy gift opportunity!

Have a wonderful day.

August 8, 2011

We started session 13D on a muggy afternoon yesterday- we are excited for "Never, Neverland" as camp is certainly a place where you never have to grow up!

The campers went through a rotation of orientations after check-in, including a swim check, nurse's station check and finalization of their activity schedules. Then, after dinner, cabin photos were taken, unit cheers were learned and a cheer off took place between the four units out on the athletics field. Also, the Pioneers and Iroquois were treated to an ice cream social.

Given that the CITs had already been here for a session, they skipped much of this in favor of having a CIT Prom in Lenape. So...if you're wondering why the CITs were all dressed up in their cabin photo, there is your answer.

Have a great day everyone!

August 5, 2011

Here is the recap of closing campfire from last night:

1: Five Year Paddle- Lea B.
2: Honesty Award- Riley from the Little Flowers
3: Caring Award- Nicole from the Little Flowers
4: Respect Award- Shawn from Lopatcong
5: Responsibility Award- Elijah from Owasa
6: Spirit, Mind and Body Award- Kyanna from the CITs
7: Unit Award- The Shawnees

Thanks to everyone for a terrific session 13C. We had a blast with your kids and it flew by!

Jamie

August 4, 2011

A cool, drizzly evening didn't stop us from having a great dance under the Pavilion last night. For campers that didn't feel like dancing, they could watch Kung-fu Panda or they could visit the trading post. We did have the afternoon interrupted by rain storms, so we set up the Karaoke machine in the dining hall for the kids to use.

Today is the last full day of the session and regularly scheduled activities. We will have closing campfire tonight, complete with awards, paddles and plenty of songs and skits. Please don't forget our pick-up time of 11:00 tomorrow morning.

Have a great day,

Jamie

August 3, 2011

Good morning from beautiful YMCA Camp Bernie!

We had unit nights last night. The Pioneers played their "Power Rangers" game, which mainly consists of sword fighting with pool noodles, and then they camped out on the athletics field. The Iroquois played "Just Dance 2" and also slept in tents on the athletics field. The Nation and Shawnee units held a campfire together up in the Nation.

Tonight is the dance as session C is winding down. Please remember that pick up time on Friday is 11 am here at camp as well as at the Ridgewood Y for those departing on the bus. Also, mark your calendars for August 18th and Candleboat Ceremony- our annual end of summer campfire. Campers from all sessions, parents, alumni and other guests are all invited to join us for this event and it will begin at 7:30.

Jamie

August 2, 2011

Last night's evening program was "Extreme Construction Craze"- Stu challenged each cabin to collect anything from camp, the more random the better, so long as everything that was borrowed was returned to its exact location. Then, everyone gathered on the basketball court with their collections and had to build sculptures of things using two main categories: Harry Potter and Intergalactic Odyssey.

So...when you look at the photo upload today, hopefully you will see things like Hogwarts, Dragons, Space Ships and Aliens. You will have to use your imagination, of course! Congrats to Zuni for winning this competition- that's two evening programs in a row for that cabin as the spirit points competition heats up!

Jamie

August 1, 2011

Hard to believe that August has arrived and we are down to the last 3 weeks of summer camp this year- it goes fast!

Yesterday was CIT Sunday, the campers and staff slept in until 9 am, enjoyed a continental breakfast followed by our chapel. This is a non-religious gathering of our camp and hte kids shared meaningful stories, songs and skits. My favorite was a section where people were offered the chance to give thanks, many great comments by all.

Afterwards, the CITs ran a version of "Fear Factor" on the Atheltics fields- including some fairly nasty (albeit fun) challenges. In the evening, the CITs did a version of Scrabble- kids had to collect letters as cabin groups and spell as many words as they could. Congrats to Zuni on winning this event!

Jamie

July 31, 2011

Intergalactic Space Odyssey Recap!

After the initial shock of being hit by asteroids, our campers and staff rallied together for a spirited competition at camp yesterday. The camp was divided into the following teams: "Star Wars", "Star Trek", "Futurama", "Starship Troopers", "Men in Black", "Avatar" and "Transformers". The morning was spent in the "galaxy" collecting moon rocks and space debris from the asteroid. To earn rocks, the teams had to complete challenges set up by the alien lifeforms.

In the afternoon, the teams spent their moon rocks in a kind of space training that included four primary stations: space invaders (water balloons), rocket launching (potato cannon), moon walking (lava shoes) and space walking (bouncy castle).

Finally, for evening program, each team shared what life is like on their home planet. There was a fashion cat walk, a talent portion and a dance demonstration by each team. As always, I was blown away by the creativity of our campers and staff.

Many thanks to Stu, the staff and all the kids for a day that was "out of this world"!

Jamie

July 30, 2011

STAR DATE: 7.30.2011

LOCATION: MILKY WAY GALAXY: SOLAR SYSTEM: EARTH: NORTH AMERICA:
          NEW JERSEY: PORT MURRAY: YMCA CAMP BERNIE
AUTHOR:   J. BEAN
TIME:     9:47:18 AM

LOG ENTRY: We have been hit by an asteroid. The specific blast zone is the flagpole area. Space debris is scattered throughout the camp property and clearly, these space rocks have supreme value. Alien life forms from distant planets have landed here to collect these valuable galactic rocks. Undoubtedly, we are headed for conflict as these visitors compete for the space debris. We will keep all interested earthlings apprised of these events as they transpire via blog.  

July 29, 2011

Camp is gearing up for our very exciting Intergalactic Odyssey (whoosh!) this weekend! The festivities begin tonight.

Lopatcong and Winema cabins departed for the Delaware River trip yesterday and will return today. They paddle from Dingman's Ferry to Smithfield Beach and I look forward to hearing how it all went. Back at camp, the kids had unit nights last evening-- with the weather a little unsettled, some of the units stayed inside. The Pioneers did some kind of police chase game, the Nation played capture the flag, the CITs had a board game night and the Shawnees borrowed my Wii, set it up with the projector and played a "Just Dance 2" tournament. The winner was the Unit Leader, Shai.

Have a nice Friday everyone,

Jamie

July 28, 2011

Yesterday was fabulous day here at camp- great weather full of fun activities around camp. The night cap was MTV Night in which each cabin performed a song, skit or dance routine-- some of the staff performed as well, including my wife and I (which I think was caught on video--yikes!).

The winning performance was done by the Little Flowers who danced to "Who Let the Dog's Out?", with second place going to the Pioneers. Each time a cabin wins an evening program competition, they earn spirit points, so congrats Little Flowers!!

Jamie

July 27, 2011

Yesterday our Unit Leaders and Stu surprised the kids with "Color Wars". The kids were divided into teams of red, yellor, green and blue, corresponding to our core values colors. There were various competitions including a big capture the flag game and a fun activity on the athletics field using a massive pile of volleyballs/kickballs/basketballs etc.

Today, we awoke to a slew of pranks by the teams from color wars, including a green team spider web that made the entire porch into the dining hall impassable- everyone had to walk around to the back door! Yellow pranked the flagpole, blue pranked the fencing around the parking lot and the red team decorated the dining hall interior.

Jamie

July 26, 2011

Good morning from Camp Bernie--

It took until the 5th week of the summer, but we had to have a real rainy day activity yesterday in the afternoon. The Pioneers prepped for campfire, while the Iroquois had a "spa day". The Nation spent the morning practicing cheers before playing team handball; in the afternoon, they joined the Shawnees for a game of "Minute to Win It". The Shawnees also spent some time doing "Ultimate Dance Crew" (or something like that...I can't remember exactly what our Unit Leader, Shai, called it!).

The opening campfire was held under the Pavilion due to the soggy conditions. You can see some pictures from the songs and skits that were performed in today's gallery!

Jamie

July 25, 2011

Session 13C, Intergalactic Odyssey, is officially open!!

The campers were oriented the rules and routines of camp, took their swim test and toured camp. then, following dinner and community time, the campers went back to their units to learn cheers, have cabin photos taken and then met on the athletics field for a "cheer off".

Today is Monday Fun Day, and looks like we're getting some much needed rain, too.

Have a good day all,

Jamie

July 22, 2011

Good morning from session 13B closing day- again, pick-up begins at 11 am today.

Here is the rundown on the awards form last night's closing campfire:

Paddles: Corey P., Tom B., Alicia W., Maya K., Sam T., Erin B. & Ray D.
Honesty: Athena G.
Caring: Harrison C.
Respect: Vincenza L.
Responsibility: Haley S.
Camp Spirit: Carter R.
Spirit, Mind & Body Award: Ray D.
Unit Award: Pioneers

Congrats to the winners, and thanks to everyone for a great session!

Jamie

July 21, 2011

Stu announced the winner of the Spirit Points competiton for this session at dinner last night, and the winning cabin was Kiowa. They will get an ice cream social tonight and a private session at any activity of their choice this afternoon. coming in second was Mohepinoke followed by the Pioneers.

We held a staff vs. camper soccer match during community time yesterday. The campers were aided by the 6 Spanish children that are attending camp and ran out to a 3-1 lead. The staff came back to win 5-3 in the end.

Tonight is closing campfire so we have a big day ahead. A reminder that pick-up tomorrow begins at 11 am, and please be here no later than noon. If your child is going on the bus to the Ridgewood YMCA, they will arrive at the Y at 11 am so please be there at that time. Thanks everyone!

Jamie

July 20, 2011

Today is the very last day for the spirit points race in session B. As of this morning, Kiowa has a pretty big lead, with the Pioneers and Mohepinoke in second and third respectively. The much deserved prize for the victorious cabin will be an ice cream social tomorrow afternoon along with a private session in the program area of that cabin's choice!

The CITs are wrapping up the last week of their four week program by doing a service project here at camp. They've chosen to fix up the nature lodge. As you'll see in today's photo gallery, they have painted the classroom a nice green color and are putting together new shelves that will be used to display some of the skins, skulls and stuffed animals that we have. This is a great project and will make the nature lodge look much better to the hundred and hundred of kids that visit it every year.

Last night was unit night- the Pioneers and Iroquois camped out on the athletics field, while the Nation and Shawnees had a joint campfire with s'mores in the Nation. The CITs had a bowling night out, and I was told that Corey P, a first time bowler, was a natural and even got a turkey!

Have a good day and stay cool out there.

Jamie

July 19, 2011

The heatwave continues at Camp Bernie- we'll keep hydrating and sunscreening!

Last night, Stu brought back an old evening program that hasn't been done in a while- The Mr. and Mrs. Camp Bernie Pageant. Each cabin entered a CIT into the pageant- girl cabins got a male CIT that they needed to dress as a female and vice versa for the boy cabins. As you can see from the photos, this was an entertaining event to say the least. And with the spirit points competition for this session in its final days, every opportunity to earn points is important.

Have a good day everyone,

Jamie

July 18, 2011

Sunday was a lazy day, much deserved after the excitement of wild west day. We slept in until 9, and enjoyed a continental breakfast followed by chapel. The CITs have mixed our chapel up a bit this year, and made it a little more interactive for everyone through team building and discussion.

The afternoon included some big games of "Croatian Dodgeball" and kickball using mattresses instead of bases. Following unit cookouts, the kids played "CIT Hunt" around camp before calling it a night.

Today we start our second week of free choice activities for your children will have a new schedule beginning this morning. Have a great day!

Jamie

July 17, 2011 Wild Wild West: Yee Haw! Recap

Hi everyone, we celebrated Wild West Day yesterday, a great tradition we have here at Camp Bernie.

The morning was spent in competition for gold. There was gold hidden across the high ropes course, floating in the pond, at the bottom of the pool, attached to archery targets and even at the top of the climbing tower. Each team had to collect as much gold as possible.

The afternoon was the wild west carnival, in which each team set up a booth with the goal of earning as many tickets as possible from their customers. Among the booths were: face painting, the saloon (with water and gatorade), a hayride through the nation (watch out for bandits!), the county jail (where you were bound to get soaked) and a kissing booth (Hershey's kisses, that is). As always, campers and staff had a blast.

For dinner, Chef Michael served fried chicken, scalloped potatoes, green beans, rolls and "sand" for dessert (vanilla pudding with vanilla cake, whipped cream and a gummy worm on top: yum!). We also had birch beer to wash it all down and country music playing in the background.

Finally, in the evening we held a square dance on the basketball court with our square dance caller, Rusty. We also did a bunch of line dances like the Macarena, Electric Slide and Cotton Eye Joe.

If you were wondering, the winning team was the Cattle Rachers. As you can see, we had a fun and full day, enjoy the pictures from it and a massive thanks to the Vanders for assisting with our photography yesterday. Have a nice day all!

Jamie

July 16, 2011

Howdy Partners and greetings from Camp Bernie where some gosh darn Bandits have stolen all our gold!!

These hooligans have hidden gold all over the stinkin camp, and some of it will be a dreadfully tough to find. I betcha by hook or crook, we'll get it back from them yahoos. Man what a fuss these bandits have caused us here.

Mayor Stu told all the townspeople, rich and poor, that they would need to fetch that gold today at a town meeting held last night. We have gold diggers, cowboys, the chain gang, railroad workers, Native Americans, the sheriffs, cattle ranchers and even some crazy mountain men on the hunt.

All I know, is I will not get it in the neck over this fuss and will most certainly raise taxes if my gold isn't returned. These folks best pony up and get to work!

Yee-haw!

Governor J. Bean

July 15, 2011

We are gearing up for Wild, Wild West Weekend--- Yee Haw! The campers found out their teams this morning and we have a great weekend planned, starting tonight.

As far as yesterday, the kids enjoyed cookout dinner and there was a spirited cheer off between the overnight campers and the day camp kids doing their sleepover at camp. Thanks go out to the CITs for joining the day camp side on the cheer off.

Following cookout, each unit had unit night. The Nation did capture the flag and s'mores in the Nation. The Shawnees played their messy goo game. The Iroquois did a reverse scavenger hunt, with the great imposter game and a dance party. The Pioneers also had s'mores and did an egg drop competition. The CITs roasted s'mores and played kickball. All in all, a fun night and the weather remains as cooperative as I can ever remember.

Have a great Friday-- Yee-Haw from camp!

Jamie

July 14, 2011

The CITs returned from their overnight yesterday- reported that they had a great time, and were in a camping site at Stokes Park that could have slept "250 people"! We sent the river trippers out this morning and looks like beautiful weather awaits them.

Back at camp, we are enjoying regular activities and looking forward to our cookout dinner and unit nights tonight. Last evening was MTV Night and there was some entertaining skits, songs and dance routines. The winning cabin was the pioneers; Stu reports that the Pioneers have pulled even with Owasa in Spirit Points. Good job boys!

Jamie

July 13, 2011

Yesterday, campers started the first week of free choice. This includes mini-biking and horseback riding for those that registered for specialty programs. The CITs left for a one night trip to Stokes State Forest and should be back around 1:00 pm today.

For evening program, the kids played "Construction Craze". This is a popular game that requires each cabin to collect anything from camp that they can obtain and bring it to the basketball court. They then have to transform these random objects into contructions and were awarded points by the judges. Among the objects this time were: "the Hogwarts Express", "Cowboy on a Horse" and one of the unit leaders! Check out today's photo gallery for some of the creative designs, and congrats to Owasa for winning this event. They've taken an early lead in the spirit points race, too!

Jamie

July 12, 2011

Yesterday was Monday Fun Day- a chance for units to get to know each other better before we start our free choice activities today. The Pioneers and Iroquois went to Point Mountain together on a clear (though super hot) morning. The Nation played some sports and the Shawnees learned a new song that they later performed at Campfire.

Speaking of campfire, we had a full program, including some solo instrumental performances by CITs Erin and Sarah. I have to say, they were a little more talented than the staff "band"!

Also, we recognized Camp Bernie Ambassador Alyssa S. who referred a friend to camp this session. As a result, she got a brand new t-shirt for "Tie Dye Tuesday" along with a goodie bag, trading post gift credit and two horseback riding lessons! What a deal!

Stay cool in the heatwave everyone- we have lots of water station set up around camp today!

Jamie

July 11, 2011

Session B got underway on Sunday-- wild, wild west-- yee haw!

We began our orientation process around 2:30, with introductions and a review of rules. Then it was time for swim checks, nurse checks and camp tours. After dinner, cabin photos were taken and the kids enjoyed a unit night together. The Iroquois and Pioneers were treated to an ice cream social while the Nation and Shawnees learned cheers.

Everything culminated in a "cheer off" on the athletics field around 9:00 pm, before everyone went to bed. I can honestly say that things are off to a very spirited start!

Jamie

July 8, 2011

Good morning from checkout day for session 13A. Here are the details about last night's program area awards and closing campfire.

Due to lingering thunderstorms, we were forced to hold everything under the pavilion. Free choice awards were passed out by the program area staff. There were some extremely creative designs made for the awards and the campers that received recognition looked very excited.

At closing campfire, we heard a few solo singing performances by Devon, Kim G. and Erin B. We also watched skits such as "hidden camera" and "the elephant skit". After concluding the entertainment, 5 year paddles were given to Aaron M., Jaida and Saige M. and Sam G. I then awarded character necklaces as follows: honesty to Kate P, caring to Devon C, respect to Joey S, and responsibility to Brianna P. The spirit award was presented to Jamie P. Finally, two brand new awards were presented: the "spirit, mind and body" award was for the CIT of the session-- Casey M. Also, the Unit Award went to the most spirited unit of the session: the Iroquois!

Thanks everyone for a terrific first session!

Jamie

July 7, 2011

Sorry- no time for a full entry today. We had a great dance last night and are super busy getting ready for the first closing campfire of the summer tonight! Quick reminder though, pick-up at camp begins at 11 am tomorrow morning. Please get here no later than noon to pick your child up. If your child is on the Ridgewood bus, please be at the Ridgewood YMCA at 11:00 am for pick-up. Thanks!

Jamie

July 6, 2011

We held unit night last night. Walking around camp, I encountered the Iroquois heading out to their overnight site (the athletics field) with stuffed animals, pillows and sleeping bags in hand. They were cheering loudly as they walked- it was quite a site to see!

The Pioneers also held an overnight, and also did an egg drop. There were four eggs in total, and they were dropped from the first story window of the dining hall and the second story window. All eggs survived! Deacon has now promised to drop them from the tower, and if they survive that drop, he'll drop them off of the zipline platform.

Nation and Shawnee units held their mutual campfire last night. There was dancing, s'mores and games being played when I stopped in. Have a great day!

Jamie

July 5, 2011

Good morning everyone!

We enjoyed a fun afternoon and evening on the 4th yesterday, hope all of you did too. Evening program was a camp favorite: "Capture the Flag". We had 4 teams competing and the winner was yellow who were the only ones to actually score!

Spirit points are heating up as session A nears it's conculsion. Right now, the main contenders are Lahanna, Owasa and Unami but it's not too late for another cabin to pull ahead. A fun twist that was added by Deacon and MacKenzie was that tree cookies were hidden around camp. If a cabin successfully found the tree cookies, they earned additional points. I know the Pioneers and Iroquois have been very excited about this idea.

Jamie

July 4, 2011

CIT Sunday was yesterday, and the weather turned after a gorgeous session so far. We held Chapel in the Pavilion with a thunderstorm surrounding us. As a result, camp clean-up was delayed in favor of staying safely underneath the pavilion and having a dance party.

The afternoon was spent doing "The Great Imposter"-- video game style. The kids had to use a pillow case full of supplies to dress one cabin member as a video game character like Mario and Sonic the Hedgehog. Following unit cookouts (held in the dining hall due to the weather), the CITs planned a fun evening program based off of Mario Kart. The winning cabin was Mohepinoke.

Lastly, in what has become a bit of a 4th of July tradition here, the international staff played a fun prank on everyone by kidnapping 2 American staff members and tying them to flagpole. They all waved their flags in pride, projected the royal wedding onto a screen and played songs by Oasis and Elton John. It was all a good laugh and everyone was very respectful afterwards as we sang the National Anthem.

Have a wonderful 4th of July!

Jamie

July 3, 2011

We enjoyed an action packed day yesterday for Greco-Roman Palooza: here is the full rundown...

Following breakfast, campers and staff returned to their cabins to get into their costumes/team colors. We then had a 6 station rotation through some challenges that required both mental and physical strength. The morning concluded with a cheering competition judged by the "Gods and Goddesses".

After lunch, the activities were Olympics based, and more athletic in nature. Each team had to enter a camper and counselor into each event. The events were kayak race, bike race, archery, swimming, distance run, 100 m dash, hammer throw, discus throw and the shot put.

Chef Michael put together a traditional Greek feast for dinner including Greek Salad with a homemade dressing and Pastisio. It was delicious!

For evening program, we were visited by Narcissus and Flora from Mount Olympus. They told us that the Gods were bored and demanded new ideas from the mortals on earth. They challenged our teams to three competitions: design a new toga fashion, create a commercial to promote the product of one of the Gods/Goddesses and finally, choreograph a new dance to the popular earth song: "Firework" by Katy Perry. As always, the creativity of our staff and campers blew me away.

As you can see, we had a really fantastic day and a well earned lazy morning today!

Jamie

July 2, 2011- Greco-Roman Palooza!

We have kicked off the festivities for our first All Camp Day of the Summer: Greco-Roman Palooza. Yesterday at lunchtime flagpole, we were visited by a goddess on horseback. She called on 6 team captains to raise an army for a spirited competition here at camp today. The teams are, "Greeks", "Romans", "Persians", "Egyptians", "Gladiators" and "Barbarians".

Last night, we gave each team 45 minutes to create 2-3 cheers and design a team flag. We then paraded around the Athletics field for the opening ceremonies, and lit the Olympic flame. Major thanks to Rob and Cody for setting up an awesome flame lighting display. Cody shot a flaming arrow from the zip platform, nailing the bonfire pit and igniting the fire. It was quite impressive, and I'm hoping to get a video of it posted soon. Each team then performed their cheers in front of the bonfire.

We are pretty excited for a fun filled day. I'll have the full synopsis tomorrow!

Jamie

July 1, 2011

Another glorious day at camp- though a little sad that our Forum campers and 6A kids will be departing today.

Last night was Unit Night, here is a rundown on what each unit did:
Shawnees and Iroquois played "The Great Imposter" followed by something called "Messy Goo" (don't ask). The Pioneers wanted to try the Giant Swing and Climbing Tower before departure today, so Deacon was kind enough to set that up first. Afterwards, they did a scavenger hunt and held their "secret" ceremony. The Nation played a big game of capture the flag in the nation. As for Forum, we held a closing campfire with some help from the day camp overnight.

This morning, the Shawnees learned a valuable lesson. One of our rules here at Camp Bernie is to close doors, as you never know what might wander inside. Sure enough, the doors to Jaqua were left open this morning when the girls went to breakfast. Upon return, there was a doe and two little fawns hanging out in the common room! Fortunately, they didn't leave a mess or break anything and we have a good story to tell as a result.

Have a nice day everyone!

Jamie

June 30, 2011

Following our Mardi Gras surprise party, we settled back into a regular day here at camp. Boy have we lucked out with the weather this week- just perfect!

We ran a popular evening program last night, "MTV Night". Each cabin was challenged to perform a musical act or skit with some connection to MTV. The winning cabin was the Pioneers who did an improv dance act to "Don't Stop Believing" by Journey; I've never seen so many worm moves and break dancing in my life! Finishing second was Unami who did some excellent choreography to the song "Firework" by Katy Perry. This earns some spirit points for those cabin groups.

Tonight is the last night for our one weekers and Forum school kids. Please remember that pick-up begins at 11 am and everyone needs to stop at our main office first. Have a great day!

Jamie

June 29, 2011

What a morning we've had so far. We skipped flagpole this morning, due to a surprise invitation by our CITs to come to the dining hall dressed in purple, green and gold for a Mardi Gras themed breakfast. We listened to New Orleans Music, enjoyed lots of decorations and ate beignets made by our kitchen staff! Huge thanks go out to the CITs, Michael and the kitchen staff as well as Casey, Nikki and Jeremy for making this happen. Look for pictures soon.

As for yesterday, we started free choice, so campers enjoyed the fun activities they had selected including mini-bikes and horseback riding. For evening program, Stu planned counselor hunt and the winning cabin was Lahanna. They are out to the early spirit points lead so far. Apparently, nobody was able to find Bini or Katelin, both of whom were well hidden in the Nation.

Jamie

June 28, 2011

Yesterday was Monday Fun Day-- meaning each unit spent the morning doing fun activities together. The CITs and Nation units played lots of sports, everything from huge games of knockout to beach volleyball and lacrosse. The Pioneers and Iroquois hiked to Point Mountain (I was told the view was "awesome" by one of the girls). The Shawnees played  a version of "Minute to Win It" with the winning cabin earning a pizza party later this week.

A highlight of the day was watching our first summer camper head down the brand new zipline here at camp. The camper was Tyler from Mohepinoke. The first girl down the zipline was Jamie from Lahanna.

We held opening campfire last night as well. Among the acts were old favorites like "I'm Glad I'm At Camp Bernie" and "Mogilla Gorilla" as well as a new story involving a King, a Princess and a Pickle, told to us by staff member Katelin which involved some funny audience participation.

Lastly, we handed out Ambassador awards for campers that referred a friend. Congrats and thanks go out to Nicole P., Katie K. and Dana R.

-Jamie

June 27, 2011

Gooood morning from beautiful YMCA Camp Bernie!

We opened session 13A yesterday afternoon with fabulous weather. We had campers coming all the way from Spain to join us for camp, and amazingly, almost everyone was checked in by 1:30; way to go parents!

The afternoon was spent running through checks at the nurse, taking swim tests and touring camp. Our Unit Leaders also ran through a funny skit demonstrating the rules here at camp. We enjoyed a spirited dining hall followed by unit nights. The Iroquois and Pioneers were treated to an ice cream social while the older units practiced their cheers.

Today is Monday Fun Day at camp as the activities begin in full. I'll be back tomorrow with the details.

Jamie

YMCA Camp Bernie Summer 2011!

I will be blogging via blogspot and regularly posting on our facebook page this summer. Everyone will be able to link to my blog through our homepage as well. You will also be able to access our daily photo uploads via the facebook page. We are busy getting ready for overnight camp to open on Sunday and the staff is pumped for session A: Greco-Roman Paloooza~ see you Sunday!

-Jamie