A Seneca Sisterhood
Our Seneca began with a warm welcome as the buses rolled in from Rochester, Syracuse and Buffalo. Seneca staff greeted the campers dressed like Dr. Suess characters. From the moment the first Senecan stepped off the bus until the final light extinguished in the cabins, it has been a magical beginning to our summer.
Following a spirited lunch in the dining hall, we headed back to the village to get ready for camper orientation. We rotated between stations (swim tests, infirmary, safety with John Golden and the waterfront) and then returned to our cabins to unpack and get reacquainted.
Our unit head, Jenn Silverstein, led us through a series of team building exercises and games. Even though there are 70 women living in Seneca, it feels like a family already. I loved seeing the older campers approach the new girls with a smile and a hug. The staff make a tremendous effort to make everyone feel included and welcome.
As twilight dimmed above the lake and the fire flies flickered in front of the campfire, each Seneca girl donned a friendship bracelet to symbolize their sisterhood in the Senecan village. The staff lit candles and we raised our Shirley Temples to another fantastic summer at CSL.
The cabins are still now, the campers finally asleep. Tomorrow holds new adventures, new friendships and a brand new Senecan summer.
Sarah Kaufman
Assistant Unit Head
S5 bunk counselor
June 30, 2011