It’s already been four weeks of long days on camp and late nights in the office. We had a wildly talented Facilities Manager hired but, when her husband got a great job far away… it was back to me leading that charge with the incredibly competent Kai and our small group of returners. It’s something we’ve done together for years and it’s been fun seeing Winter get whipped out of this place.
Kitchen News
We’ve two new chefs, Chef Chris and Chef Esaie. Only way to say this: these guys can sling it. Kate and I have always thought camp runs on its stomach (and a watch) and Chef Chris, Chef E and their team have kept everyone happy and full. Even our long-time Kitchen Manager Yanira has been impressed. High praise, indeed.
At breakfast today, we had 60% of our summer staff already with us. For the past week, they’ve been busting it alongside our DHs and PHs swinging weed-eaters, laying down paint and sod and picking up sticks and limbs and logs. Between (good natured) World Cup arguments, learning camp songs and traditions and getting to know one another, we’ve gotten a lot done.
By the end of dinner, we had 95% of team on camp. This is a HIGH energy group with more returners than we’ve ever enjoyed. Time to roll!
Speaking of which, Kate and I have great news.
Weequahic News
After being partners and part-owners in camp for many years, we completed our full purchase of Weequahic in May. We’ve loved working with our partners and will continue to be close. (They are all coming to Sydney and CK3’s wedding in August.) And, it was time to make Weequahic a completely family-run operation.
What will change?
Beside our young Kelly men becoming more involved and, with Luke heading to college, Kate and I spending more time in PA… nothing.
The values of Gratitude, Attitude and Courage have never been more important. Finding, recruiting, training and leading staff remains paramount. Home visits, Kate leading Nominations, the quest for continual improvement, great traditions we’ve started or kept going all remain the same.
If nothing else, it’s motivated us to do even more for our campers and staff and this great camp the Lustig family founded in 1953.
We are so happy to be fully started on Summer 2026. We’ve got two great weeks of Staff Orientation in front of us. After that, we can’t wait to get the kids here! Time for SUMMER!
