Wow! What a finale that was.
After the Avraham Fried concert, we all headed back to our bunks to pack. At 5pm we were called to the dining hall for the banquet. And a banquet it was. A hot carving station, onion rings, sesame chicken, Hawaiian chicken, chicken lo mein, sweet and sour chicken, bar-b-que ribs, assorted dips, and fresh fruit.
After we were stuffed to the gills, we headed to the social hall for the closing ceremonies. Dembi started off the show by naming and thanking every staff member in camp. First the waiters, then lifeguards, then specialties, medical and nursing staff, administrative staff, and maintenance staff. Each group got a well-deserved standing ovation. We then graduated two members of the oldest division, Avi D and Yoshi. Dembi explained to the audience that Camp Simcha Special was originally created for boys/girls and young men/women. It was created so that people who may seem different than us externally, have a place to go for two months a year. A place where they can be themselves, spend time with people who truly understand them, and not be pitied or shunned. At a certain age, however, we feel that these teenagers are able to take the lessons and security they have gained from their years here, and use it to face the world as the great people they are. Avi D. then addressed us, and he told us that although he only spent one session here, it has made a lasting impression on his life. He will never forget Simcha and the great time he had here. He thanked everyone for giving him a great summer.
Dembi then called up the counselors, by division, and asked them to pick up a present from the stage. He went on to thank the counselors for their tireless efforts over the past two weeks on behalf of their camper. He told the campers that the only payment their counselors wanted is a thank you-in the form of a hug. At his count of three, every counselor handed over the present to his camper, and every camper reciprocated with a long embrace. It was an event you had to witness.
Dembi went on to thank the campers for being an inspiration for us all, and for giving us the most epic session ever!
We then settled into out seats to watch the CSS 2011 Memories movie. That was followed by a music video that was produced start to finish in camp. The music and video was written and recorded right here on campus. Coming soon to YouTube near you.
We then gathered in the baseball field where we were treated to a spectacular fireworks display. What a way to end an epic session.
There is still yet to come. Check our blog daily for updates.