It is hard to believe that we have already reached the third week of Second Session! Over the past few weeks, our Bonim campers have grown in incredible ways. Many arrived at Camp Coleman as first-time campers, unsure of what camp life would bring. Now, they are fully immersed in the rhythm of camp, confidently making their way to activities, singing songs around camp, embracing traditions, and truly calling Camp Coleman home. The friendships, confidence, and independence that have blossomed over the past few weeks have been nothing short of amazing to watch.
Bonim campers have continued to dive into every part of the Camp Coleman experience, making the most of each day through their elective rotations. Whether they’re heading off to Omanut (Arts & Crafts), Tarbut (Creative Arts), Etgar (Outdoor Adventure), Sports, or Swim, each day offers another opportunity to explore new interests, build confidence, and create lasting memories.
One of the biggest Bonim favorites continues to be the Omanut (Arts & Crafts) Center, where campers have spent their mornings creating colorful masterpieces and letting their creativity shine. Another clear favorite has been Campscape during Etgar. Tucked away in one of Camp Coleman’s most peaceful corners, Campscape has quickly become a special place for many Bonimers. Campers love visiting the friendly goats, chickens, and duck, especially the two adorable baby goats that always seem to steal the spotlight. Throughout the week, Bonimers have also explored gardening, learned about nature, and even created their own natural soaps while spending time in the beautiful Campscape garden.
Sports electives have kept the energy high, with soccer, basketball, and yoga becoming some of the most popular choices among the Bonim unit. This week also brought an exciting milestone as campers had the opportunity to choose a brand-new round of electives. Some couldn’t wait to return to the activities they had fallen in love with, while others eagerly stepped outside their comfort zones to try something completely new. Dance has already become a favorite among many Bonimers, while others are especially excited for the Video elective, where they get to film hilarious skits that will later be featured during Friday Night Live for the entire camp to enjoy.
One of the sweetest parts of camp has been watching the relationships between our Bonim campers and their Chalutzim buddies continue to grow. What started as introductions has turned into genuine friendships. Throughout the day, it is not uncommon to see Bonimers running across the Chadar during meals just to give their Chalutzim buddy a hug, wave hello, or excitedly share stories about their day. These special connections create a wonderful sense of belonging and give our youngest campers older role models who cheer them on every step of the way.
The excitement continued during Trip Day as the Bonim unit traveled to Lake Lanier Water Park for an unforgettable day together. From racing down water slides and splashing through the splash pads to floating along the lazy river and jumping through the waves in the wave pool, campers soaked up every moment of fun with their bunks and counselors. Laughter echoed throughout the park, and the smiles on campers’ faces said it all. It was a day filled with adventure, friendship, and memories that will last long after summer ends.
Evenings have continued to be packed with unforgettable programs that bring the Bonim community together. Campers laughed their way through This or That in the Elisheva, where they raced from side to side sharing their favorite foods, activities, and silly preferences. They embraced the mud, shaving cream, and water slides during Messy Mayhem, Camp Coleman’s exciting new take on Super Sloppy Night. During Who Took the Snack? in the Brody, Bonimers worked together to solve the mystery while enjoying plenty of laughs along the way. A cozy Bunk Night gave campers time to relax after their exciting Trip Day, playing cards, laughing together, and strengthening the friendships growing inside each cabin. They also took the stage during Dancing with the Stars in the Harris Center and put their teamwork to the test during Spy Kids, where campers worked together to complete challenges and missions.
Just when campers thought the excitement couldn’t get any bigger, everything changed during dinner when MAC officially broke out! What started as an ordinary evening quickly transformed into one of the most exciting moments of the summer as Camp Coleman was launched into this year’s theme, MAC in Time. The Bonim campers could hardly contain their excitement as they discovered their teams and prepared for the days of friendly competition ahead.
This year’s Bonim MAC teams are:
Blue Docs
Cabins: 12B, 9A, 8A, and 7
Camper Captains: Sloane Werber and Brooks Bailey
Red Martys
Cabins: 12A, 9B, and 8B
Camper Captains: Wren Brock Boone and Sam Finick
As we head into the remainder of the session, one thing is certain: our Bonim campers have truly embraced everything Camp Coleman has to offer. They are growing more confident each day, forming friendships that will last far beyond this summer, and filling every moment with laughter, adventure, and ruach. We cannot wait to see what the rest of the summer has in store for our youngest campers as they continue making memories that will stay with them for a lifetime!
