Stonybrook Day Camp

Holiday season of helping others

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Mon, 26 Nov 2012 14:28:00 +0000

Give Thanks by Stuffing the Bus for CHOW and the Jersey Shore

We hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We hope you enjoyed the food, the floats, the football.... and most of all, you just enjoyed being with family. And know that this Thanksgiving we were incredibly thankful; we truly appreciate all of our campers and staff. Thank you for making Stonybrook Day Camp (serving Essex County and Morris County) so special.

This summer many of you generously donated to Livingston’s CHOW (Community Hunger Outreach Warehouse) for a Stuff the Bus food drive. You wowed us with your generosity and stuffed our camp bus to the limits. Well, we want to let you know that CHOW is sponsoring a very special Stuff the Bus on Nov 30th which will benefit the Jersey Shore residents of Ventnor and Atlantic City.

While many shore towns were hit extremely hard during the hurricane, Livingston Township and the Livingston Public Schools was looking to have a large impact and provide their students with a service learning opportunity by working to partner with an area in tremendous need. Atlantic City and Ventnor suffered extensive damage to their businesses, homes and beach. Both towns have diverse populations that live at the beach year round and many have economic situations that have only intensified after the storm. The communities were in the actual eye of the storm and the destruction can be seen everywhere.

On Friday, November 30^th, Livingston Public Schools will provide a bus to drive to all nine schools and collect health non-perishable foods, personal hygiene products and cleaning supplies. The bus will also stop at Aquinas Academy, Newark Academy (confirmation pending) and local businesses including Kings, Shoprite, Regal Bank, the WestEssex Tribune, YMCA, Kids at Heart, The Westminster Hotel, Eastman Corporation, Livingston Public Library, Livingston Town Hall, The Learning Experience and Senior Community Center and others to be announced (all collection points). On the following day, December 1st, the bus will drive down to Ventnor, NJ to bring the much needed goods.

If you would like, we welcome you to take the lessons of giving from the summer- the campers truly enjoyed being a part of something so special- and continuing on your own (as many of you do regularly). Take some non-perishables, cleaning supplies or personal hygiene items and drop them by one of the many donations collection sites. It will make a world of difference to someone in need and is a perfect way to celebrate all that we have to be thankful for.

And for more info on CHOW please like the CHOW facebook page, run by our very own camp mom’s, Stacey Rubinstein and Jodi Rothfeld.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Livingston-CHOW/425506660836139

Thanks and again, we hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

www.stonybrookdaycamp.com

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Sandy and Not Sandy Schapitl !!!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 20:38:00 +0000

We wanted to reach out to say that we are hoping everyone in our camp family is coping during this very stressful time. With Hurricane Sandy and Nor’Easter Athena, we know many have had to deal with power outages (some still without power), school closures and damages to homes. While everyone in our area has been affected in some way, we know it has been especially tough on some. Please know our thoughts are with you .

We wanted to share a few ways to help that you might be interested in participating in and a few resources.

$5 dollars pledged to the American Red Cross for Wearing your Camp T-Shirt!

November 13 is ‘International Wear Your Summer Camp T-Shirt Day.’ Camp Craze, a New York based marketing firm, and its parent company CRAZE Interactive will donate $5 to the American Red Cross for each picture of a camper wearing a camp t-shirt submitted to their social media sites. See http://blog.campcraze.com/international-wear-your-camp-t-shirt-day-1113/ for more info on where to post.

Art & Journaling Supplies Needed at Federation

And from the mom of one of our campers, Jewish Chaplains are on the ground in affected areas in NJ. They need journals and art supplies to help council children who are processing the aftermath of Sandy. Please drop off journals and art supplies to the Federation at 901 Rt. 10 Whippany 9am-5pm. Thanks Stacey Brown, mom to Max, for letting us know!

CHOW shelves are empty and in need of any food donations

Many participated in the STUFF THE BUS for CHOW (Community Hunger Outreach Warehouse) this summer. It was an amazing outpouring of support for the food pantry open to people of all faiths by appointment only. CHOW has been feeding local members of the community but has sent a great deal of food to individuals displaced by the hurricane. Please consider dropping off non-perishable, healthy food items to CHOW at St. Philomena’s Church 386 South Livingston Avenue (donations can be left in the main church entrance) or at the West Essex Tribune offices next to Shoprite in Livingston.

Randolph Family in Need

During an incredibly tragic accident during the hurricane, parents, to 4 children, died when a tree hit their pick up truck. Below is a wish upon a hero link to see how you can help them with a donation as their eldest daughter tries to help her family in the wake of this tragic situation.

http://www.wishuponahero.com/wishes/?id=1316547

Elmo Talks Hurricane

Parents of younger kids may find this resource helpful. In an effort to help soothe children scared or confused by Hurricane Sandy, Elmo appeared on New York’s WNYC radio station earlier this week. Elmo spoke with WNYC’s Brian Lehrer, along with Sesame Street education representative Rosemarie Truglio, about how he was coping with the storm.

http://www.slate.com/blogs/browbeat/2012/10/30/sesame_street_s_elmo_appears_on_wnyc_to_talk_to_children_about_hurricane.html

Please let us know of any drives or additional ways to help. We would also love to know about any amazing resources that you have found helpful as we are always looking to share with our camp family.

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American Camping Association Accreditation

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Fri, 26 Oct 2012 12:58:00 +0000

At Stonybrook Day Camp we are committed to providing our campers with high quality programming and we always focus on safety as well as having fun.

We work very hard to do so and we know we are successful when we see happy campers and their parents. Our hard work paid off this summer because smiles say it all, but we just got some official news that confirms what we know to be true.

We’d like to announce that after completing a rigorous inspection process requiring our program to meet almost 300 standards for health, safety and program quality, Stonybrook Day Camp is officially re-accredited by the American Camp Association!

This is the GOLD STANDARD of accreditation in the camping world and we are just thrilled. Thanks to all of our staff who helped make this happen because we realize this is an accomplishment that involved many. We appreciate all that you do and we celebrate by planning many good things for Summer 2013!

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Octoberfest 2012: Highlights!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Mon, 15 Oct 2012 17:09:00 +0000

What an amazing day we had at Stonybrook's Octoberfest this past Saturday. The weather, crisp and fresh, set the tone for a perfect fall day of fun. In fact, we would describe it as a family camp day with a fall spin. Horse carriage/hay rides, farm animals, challenge course, games, crafts, pumpkins and lots of smiles. We loved seeing many familiar faces and we were happy to meet new friends. Here's a recap of the day. You just need an apple cider donut in one hand and an apple in the other to get the full effect!

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It's All About: Octoberfest and Stuff the Bus!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Fri, 12 Oct 2012 12:17:00 +0000

This weekend is going to be a fantastic one. Don’t forget to join us on Saturday from 1-3:30 for Stonybrook’s OCTOBERFEST. Current campers, alumni, family and friends…. EVERYONE IS WELCOME! Music, games, arts and crafts, challenge course, contests, and so much more. Coach Rick and Coach Mike will be there along with many staff and familiar faces.

And if you are looking for something good to do THIS Sunday, do something good.

A highlight of camp this past summer was when our entire camp participated in the STUFF THE BUS FOOD DRIVE FOR C.H.O.W. (Community Hunger Outreach Warehouse). We filled a camp bus with donated healthy food items. It was amazing and we fed so many families in need.

Following the success of the Stuff the Bus food drive, the Livingston community is looking to hold one more on Sunday Oct 14th in order to help the food pantry out during this pre-holiday season.

The non-perishable items requested for collection are: canned tuna, peanut butter, napkins, toilet tissue, paper towels, breakfast cereal, condiments, canned beans, dried beans, pasta, white or brown rice, pasta sauces, macaroni & cheese, powdered milk, canned fruit, canned vegetables, baby food and jelly & jam. Only new, unopened items will be collected. Please make sure items are not expired and healthy items are appreciated.

The Stuff the Bus bus will drive through town and make many stops. People are welcomed and encouraged to come bring donations to any bus stop.

STUFF THE BUS SCHEDULE

Newark Academy at 8:15am-8:45am

Livingston’s Shoprite at 9:00-9:30am

Livingston’s Kings at 9:40-10:15am.

Mount Pleasant Elementary School 10:20-10:45am

Harrison Elementary School 10:50-11:20am

Temple Beth Shalom from 11:30am- 11:55am

Lastly at noon, the bus heads over to the Livingston 2012 Fun Run for Health and Wellness presented by the West Essex YMCA, the Big "L" Club and the Livingston Education Foundation.

All collected food will be donated to Livingston’s C.H.O.W.. C.H.O.W, spearheaded by Sister Barbara Howard of St. Philomena’s and a project of the Livingston Clergy Association, will distribute collected items to people in need. Housed at St. Philomena’s, C.H.O.W. is also open to people, of all faiths, on a drop-in basis and those interested can contact Sister Barbara at (973) 992-1382 for additional information. Excess food collected during the drive will be donated to soup kitchens and food pantries in our surrounding areas.

This Stuff the Bus Food Drive is a project of Livingston’s Food Day Committee. Food Day is a national initiative, sponsored by the Center for Science in the Public Interest, working to bring people together to push for healthy, affordable food produced in a sustainable and humane way. In 2012, Livingston has joined Food Day’s “eat real movement” to help do nothing short of transforming the American diet. To learn more about Livingston’s Food Day efforts go to www.facebook.com/LivingstonFoodDay . To learn more about Food Day go to www.foodday.org.

So again, come have fun on Saturday and do something good on Sunday. Now that’s a great weekend!

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It's All About: Sun High Orchards!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Thu, 27 Sep 2012 13:29:00 +0000

Fall weekend activity alert!

Sun High Orchards is a favorite of Roger’s and many Stonybrook staff and campers. Located right around the corner from camp, Sun High Orchards, operated by Farmer Phil, offers a bounty of farm grown fruits and vegetables. And Farmer Phil happens to be a great person, who loves what he does, and it shows.

Fall is all about apple and pumpkin picking at Sun High! There is a big variety- Cortland, Macintosh, Galas, Macouns, Honeycrisp, Empire, Delicious, Fugi and Winesap are just some of apples harvested from Sun High’s trees. Continuous hayrides (weekends only) will take you to the pumpkin patch beginning the last weekend of September and continuing through October. Corn stalks, hardy mums, gourds, hay bales and many other fall decorations are also available.

In fact, you may be familiar with Sun High if you have ever been at a Stonybrook Octoberfest. The apples, apple cider, pumpkins, cider donuts (Peanut and Tree Nut Free), corn stalks, bails of hay and just about everything else for Octoberfest comes from Farmer Phil at Sun High Orchard. And speaking of Octoberfest, make sure you join us on Oct 13^th from 1:00-3:30 to check out these fall favorites.

While closed for the winter months, the fall, spring and summer months are busy at the farm. Opening on May 1st, the Spring season kicks off with asparagus. This is one of the very first crops to announce summer is on it's way! Annuals and perennials for the beginner to advanced gardener are also available. July 4^th kicks off the summer season with “Jersey Fresh” sweet corn, tomatoes, peaches, flowers and of course pies.

So again, Sun High is a favorite of Roger’s. Anyone who has seen his desk during the summer knows that he is a fan of Sun High’s stone fruits (all of them). Roger also loves grilling corn and there is no corn fresher or better than picking it yourself. Farmer Phil lets him go and choose his own corn and cut the stalks himself. It’s good to have sun a wonderful farm nearby. Come check it out for yourself and let Farmer Phil know Roger sent you! http://www.sunhigh.com.

We look forward to seeing everyone at Octoberfest 2012!!!

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Stonybrook Spotlight and Fundraising event: Sam Braverman!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Thu, 13 Sep 2012 17:36:00 +0000

Sam Braverman is six-years-old has spent the last three summers at Stonybrook. She is all about camp and her favorite camp activities are jumping pillow, dance and swim. Full of energy and all smiles, she is just a joy to be around. She is doing something very cool this weekend and we wanted to help spread the word and promote her event.

See in addition to being a great friend and an all around fun kid, Sam also is hearing impared and wears hearing aids. Sam and two of her hearing impared friends, will be joining forces to raise money for New York City’s annual Walk4Hearing, which raises money to support those who are hearing disabled. The three friends will be manning a lemonade stand on September 15 from 10:30 a.m. – 1:20 p.m. at 16 Broadlawn Drive, across the street from Mt. Pleasant Elementary school.

The funds raised will be donated by the families to the Hearing Loss Association of America. According to their website, "HLAA educates the general public about hearing loss while easing the associated stigma. Striving to make hearing loss a public health issue, thousands of people of all ages, races, and backgrounds have come together to display their compassion for the cause and to make hearing loss an issue of national concern."

The three families will also be participating in the Walk4Hearing in New York City on September 30. When speaking about last years event, Sam’s mom Stefanie commented, "I was blown away by the impact and size of the event. It made Sam so happy to see others were just like her."

Again, the lemonade stand will be held on September 15 from 10:30 a.m. – 1:20 p.m. at 16 Broadlawn Drive in Livingston, across the street from Mt. Pleasant Elementary school.

While funds raised by the lemonade stand may not be large amounts, Stefanie Braverman believes that "it's not the amount that makes the impact, but it's the act that makes the impact." We couldn’t agree more and we will be sure to come out and support your effort. Our camp community is encouraged to do the same. Way to go Sam!

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Octoberfest 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Wed, 05 Sep 2012 18:46:00 +0000

Although the Summer of 2012 is in the history books it doesn’t mean that camp isn’t on our minds. We are already planning for summer 2013 and thinking of new ways to keep July and August your favorite time of the year. So, how about a little hint of Summer this Fall for you and all of your friends???

Please join us on Saturday October 13th, from 1-3:30pm, for Stonybrook Day Camp’s Octoberfest. There will be music, games, sports, arts & crafts, challenge course activities, horse and carriage rides, contests and lots more. It will be one
part mini-camp experience, one part beautiful fall day. Refreshments will be served and we welcome you to invite friends and family- Everyone is welcome!! Current
campers, alumni, prospective campers, fans of camp…..we hope you will join us for
what promises to be a great day.

Please RSVP by Wednesday October 9th at 973.584.0078 or
stonybrookdaycamp@yahoo.com. Thanks and looking forward to seeing you on
October 13th!

Don't forget to check out http://www.stonybrookdaycamp.smugmug.com to see all of the pictures from camp!

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Summer 2012 Has Come to an End at SBDC!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Sat, 18 Aug 2012 02:31:00 +0000

Say it isn't so! Our final day of camp has come and gone..... bye bye Summer 2012, you were a great one.

As we look back at the summer, we are so thankful for so many different reasons. We are thankful because it was a total blast and lots of fun. We had new programs such as the "Mad Scientist" and "Totally Courageous Basketball" and they were just perfect additions to our calendar. We are thankful because our old favorites like color war, spirit week, and water day were as exciting as ever. And we are thankful because we have welcomed so many new campers and staff who truly embraced our camp philosophy and really become a part of our community. And our returning campers, you are such a part of Stonybrook and it just wouldn't be the same without you. We do feel very lucky because we attract such a wonderful group of kids and families and we love what they bring to camp. Thank you for choosing Stonybrook because we do realize you have a choice.

And to our staff, you guys are just the best. You gave us so much and you gave the kids so much and for that we say a big thank you. Everyday you came despite rain or heat and you made every day a memorable one for our campers. Please know it is much appreciated and we wish you a wonderful rest of your summer and beyond.

And now, we let our camp photographer have some fun. These are Jodi's favorite pics of the Summer of 2012. She's amazing and her pictures bring us right back to the camp moment. Enjoy the memories.

(click on image to see larger file and access the slide show!)

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Stonybrook Day Camp: Haley!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Thu, 16 Aug 2012 23:28:00 +0000

Stonybrook Spotlight: Camper Haley!

Haley is all smiles. In fact, she is one happy camper. While soft spoken, she is all rah rah when it comes to camp activities and participating. She participates in every theme and every challenge and we might even describe her as an ultimate camper! She is a pure joy to have at Stonybrook!

Statistics on Haley

Age: 9yo

Grade: Going into 4^th grade

Group at Camp: Hippie Chicks

Years at SBDC: 2^nd summer, prior she attended drama camp

Hobbies: reading, bike riding, and collecting rocks

Future plans: Haley wants to be a meteorologist....and we are certain it will happen because when she talks about it, her face lights up! She say she loves to "study the weather".

Thoughts on camp: Her face lit up again and she replied, " I really love it!"

Haley’s Favorite Camp Activity

Haley responded, “Challenge course!(picture big smile)”.

Favorite Camp Memory:

Haley responded, “When I got the rope with the small knot for completing the challenge course elements. I completed everything on card! I was very excited and proud.” We were proud of her too!

Thoughts on the Hippie Chicks:

When asked about her group, she replied, "It’s a great group. I have really nice counselors and friends. And even though they don't go to my school, they are awesome. I have playdates with them outside of camp. They are my FRIENDS”.

Advice for Campers

When asked about advice for new campers, Haley responded, "Sometimes people are shy when they first come to camp, but once you get used to Stonybrook, you'll find that you really like it.”

And Haley, we are glad that you came to camp when you did, because Stonybrook Day Camp really, really loves you! Thanks for being a part of our camp family!

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Congressman Rodney Frelinghuysen visits Stonybrook Day Camp!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Wed, 15 Aug 2012 22:53:00 +0000

Today was a learning experience for many. Congressman Rodney Frelinghuysen, who represents the 11^th District of New Jersey (that’s us!) came to camp today! Serving his 9^th term, Frelinghuysen serves as New Jersey's senior member of the House Appropriations Committee and on three key appropriations subcommittees: Energy and Water Development, of which he is the Chairman, Defense, and Homeland Security. Frelinghuysen represents 56 municipalities in the 11th Congressional District, including all those in Morris County as well as communities in Sussex, Somerset, Passaic, and Essex Counties.

Through countless events in communities across the 11th District, Rodney seeks out and listens to the opinions and advice of those he represents. He holds regular town hall meetings, visits dozens of schools and attends hundreds of community events. Well, now he can say he comes to camp!

He was very happy to be at Stonybrook Day Camp. He had heard great things about camp and it certainly looked like a lot of fun. Our older campers had a Q&A session with the Congressman and here is how it all went down.

Matt Ackerman: What does a congressman do?

Congressman Frelinghuysen: There are 435 congressmen and congresswomen who represent the entire US. Each congressman represents 750,000 people. I listen to my constituents and their needs. I represent them in Congress. I actually represent many different towns from Sparta to Randolph to Livingston.

Madeline Berg: To go into politics, how long do you have to go to school?

Congressman Frelinghuysen: To be a member of congress you don’t need a college degree but it is a good idea to have it. I majored in American History but if I could do it again I might major in English. Reading is important. And to go into congress, you must be 25 years old.

Adam Christ: When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?

Congressman Frelinghuysen: When I was 7, my father became a member of congress. He was a congressman for 20 years and I wanted to do what he did because he loved it so much.

Andrew Finnin: How does a bill become a law?

Congressman Frelinghuysen: You have to have enough people who like the bill. You need at least 218 co-sponsors who think it is a good idea. As you can certainly imagine, it takes a long time to pass a law.

Charlotte Crithary: What do you like to do when you are not working?

Congressman Frelinghuysen: I like to spend time with my family. I am married and I have two girls and both went to sleepaway camp btw. I also like to garden, play tennis and swim. I certainly don’t get a lot of free time but when I do that is how I like to spend it.

Adrianna Maiella: What is your family like and how have they influenced your career?

Congressman Frelinghuysen: I have been married for 32 years and my wife is very opinionated. That’s a good thing. She often tells me how she feels about my voting. I have two kids, one is 25 years old and one is 28. They live in NY and San Francisco. My family definitely influences my views on things.

Danny Mambelli: Do you get to meet famous people?

Congressman Frelinghuysen: I had the honor of going to the White House picnic and I have met most of the presidents you have known. I have met lots of astronauts. I have met lots of interesting people and gone to lots of interesting places. I have even been to the South Pole and I have seen the penguins.

Danny Mambelli: Who is the most important famous person?

Congressman Frelinghuysen: The person I admire most is Abraham Lincoln. When he ran for president he actually lost twice in New Jersey.

Michelle Harrison: Who inspired you?

Congressman Frelinghuysen: My father. He died last year at 95.

The campers enjoyed him and he enjoyed camp. And he was so much fun we welcome him to consider a staff position if he decides to consider a career change!

There are more pictures from the Congressman Frelinghuysen's visit! Check them out on Smug Mug!

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Stonybrook Spotlight: Debbie Gilenson!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Tue, 14 Aug 2012 22:46:00 +0000

Stonybrook Spotlight: Boating and Fishing Specialist Debbie Gilenson

New to camp this year, Debbie Gilenson is totally all about camp. She is team player (always helping hand in other areas whenever we need her) and a fantastic addition to Stonybrook. While she knows how to get things done, she is super nice and always smiling.

And she has learned how to properly navigate the high seas at Stonybrook while bringing her own personal style to Boating and Fishing. We love that she wears gloves (yellow kitchen ones too) while handling the fish. It is just awesome that she embraces the job and yet keeps true to what works best for her.

Statistics on Debbie

Town: Randolph, NJ

Occupation: Work at Home Mom, who runs Klassy Kids, a hair, make-up and nails party experience for birthday parties. While she has done very well with Boating and Fishing at camp, we don’t think Klassy Kids will be offering nautical parties anytime soon. It is all about glam!

Family: Debbie’s husband David owns and operates Gilenson’s, the Gas Grill Experts. In addition to a full line of grills, David offers cooking parties and personal chef services. Debbie also has two kids, Mason & Rylee, who have been enjoying their summer at Stonybrook.

Debbie’s Favorite Camp Memory

When asked her favorite camp memory, she answered, “All the specialist singing and dancing during the making of a "special" video.” Bet we have you a bit curious, you will see that video all in due time!

Debbie’s Advice for New Counselors

Be a team player! (And she is the perfect teammate!)

Other

Debbie grew up at camp every summer as a child and she just loved it. They were the best summers of her life. She loved everything camp and color war especially. And she wants that for her kids.

In fact, Debbie loves being a camp mom and seeing first hand the positive experience that is camp.

Debbie thank you for becoming a part of the Stonybrook family!

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Carnival Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Mon, 13 Aug 2012 22:18:00 +0000

Carnival Day was AWESOME. Just a fun day and our campers were all smiles as they enjoyed the festivities.

One part of camp was all about bouncing with regular bounce houses, slides, wreaking ball (bounce house game) and a basketball bounce house.

And then there was all the old school fun stuff that makes up a carnival, including tic tac toe, ring toss, color roulette, face painting etc. It seemed that everyone won something as every camper had tons of prizes.

And what’s a carnival without snacks; our campers made and decorated cookies while also enjoying snow cones and cotton candy (but not to worry it wasn’t a sugar free for all).

And your family may have expanded as our marriage booth was busy, and we MEAN busy (some married many)!

And as an added bonus, the weather was perfectly spectacular! Great start to our final week of camp for the 2012 season.

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Week 7--Color War Winner & Highlights!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Fri, 10 Aug 2012 23:32:00 +0000

Week 7 comes to an end but not without leaving lots of great memories.

The rain didn't spoil our Color War today, we just got more creative!

The day started off with competition and the intensity was on. The excitement could be heard from JR. Camp to Teen Xtreme. And when the rain came? Well that didn't stop us. We had our first ever Color War Bowling Bonanza!

The competition returned after lunch and the rain went away! The campers had their annual banner and song competition! It was AMAZING, exciting, and OH so close!!!!!!

But only one team could prevail....CONGRATULATIONS........ to the WHITE TEAM!

Here is a look back at the rest of our Color War Day! Great job, campers!

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Color War is HERE!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Fri, 10 Aug 2012 00:07:00 +0000

Today was one of the most anticipated days of the Summer..... COLOR WAR BREAK! Every year, camp keeps coming up with different ways to break the competition. Its exciting, especially as campers talk about previous breaks and all the fun they had in years past.

This year, we had a little help from Harry Potter to spice things up. Campers enjoyed a theatrical morning with a very cool Harry Potter show. As part of the show, the camp had to break up into groups from the book series. The groups competed in the Harry Potter olympics. When the winning team, Gryffindor, was announced a special house cup, which was sealed in a box, was presented. When the box was opened, out popped a balloon that announced color war and the team captains stormed out. The camp broke out into teams of blue and white and the games were on. Go Blue! Go White! Show us your might!!!!!! And have fun!

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Visiting Day 2012!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Wed, 08 Aug 2012 21:07:00 +0000

The great heat wave of 2012 didn't stop our awesome parents from coming to our annual Junior Camp visiting day to watch their campers sing, swim, zip, and much more!

It was business as usual at Stonybrook with lots of smiles and happy campers! We love seeing our kids show off for their parents and we loved seeing our proud parents!

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Stonybrook Day Camp & Stuff the Bus!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Tue, 07 Aug 2012 22:06:00 +0000

What a way to kick of the Stuff the Bus for C.H.O.W. (community hunger outreach warehouse). Organizers of Livingston's Stuff the Bus were floored with our camp's results! Stonybrook's mini Stuff the Bus exceeded expectations and filled 1/3 of the town's larger bus.

Kids came to camp via their vans with bags filled with food and the excitement about doing something for others was contagious. Everything was amazed as the pile of donations grew. We heard from some camper families that this was a great learning experience as participating prompted questions about food pantries and how some people don't have food to eat. Lots of good came out of these conversations as kids learned more about the lives of others and how lucky we are to have food on our table.

We had a group of campers meet the official Stuff the Bus and unload our camp donation. It was a thrilling moment as Livingston's Deputy Mayor, Rudy Fernandez, Sister Barbara and organizers accepted our donation. Way to go Stonybrook. You truly made us proud!!!!!!

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It's All About the Rookies on Rookie Day!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Tue, 07 Aug 2012 02:15:00 +0000

Stonybrook Day Camp held Rookie Day 2012 today, and it was definitely a taste of camp that left everyone wanting more!

As previously advertised, Rookie Day is designed for future campers, (ages 3, 4, and 5) who are not yet at Stonybrook, to get to know a bit more about the camp experience. They take a journey through a mini-typical day at Stonybrook and they get to experience some of the fun that camp has to offer.

And today did not disappoint. We had lots of excited kids arrive for Rookie Day and we broke up into 2 groups. Kids enjoyed jumping pillow, sports with Jim, Super Science, Arts & Crafts and snack time. Everyone left with their bucket art project and their smiles said it all. What a great day! We hope to see you all at Stonybrook Day Camp 2013!

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Week 6 Highlights!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Fri, 03 Aug 2012 22:40:00 +0000

Say it isn't so! Only 2 weeks of camp to go. As we close out our 6th week at camp, we are still all smiles and having fun. Despite some crazy weather, camp has kept it interesting with lots of fun programs and activities. We enjoyed field day, watermelons, teddy bears, belly flops, and more. Not to mention that our the girls LOVED Future Fashionistas. And just know some say Stonybrook saves the best for last.... the next two weeks will be memorable.

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It's All About the Teddy Bear Clinic at Stonybrook Day Camp!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Fri, 03 Aug 2012 00:39:00 +0000

For our campers in Nursery through Kindergarten, they had a very special day. It was our annual Teddy Bear Picnic and campers brought in their favorite cuddly friend (not all were bears) to camp. Campers were able to eat lunch, with their stuffed animals as guests, at a special picnic. In addition to lunch, we read teddy bear stories and snacked on watermelon and Teddy Grahams. Everyone's stuffed animal enjoyed the festivities (don’t ask how we know, but we know) and then the stuffed animals went to rest in the cubbies until it was time to board the buses for home. A wonderful time was had by all, campers and their special friends!

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It's All About: Arts & Crafts!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Wed, 01 Aug 2012 23:22:00 +0000

Arts and Crafts is always a favorite here at Stonybrook Day Camp. Campers have had a great time making pillows, bracelets, picture frames, tie dyed items, spirit week shirts, and lots and lots more!

At electives, we really get their creative juices flowing. Last summer, some really hard-working campers took woodworking and they created a masterpiece. Their work of art is the giant peace sign you see when first entering camp. They sanded, primed, and painted and then they added a very special touch.........their hand prints.

Next week, our campers will be building another awesome "mystery" work of art and they will be sure to leave their mark at Stonybrook for 2012!

In the meantime, our latest elective has been a big hit with our campers. It is "string art" and the possibilities are endless. Campers transfer their design onto a wooden plaque and then hammer nails around that design. Different color string is then wound around the nails and and their vision/art work emerges!

Here is a short tutorial on how you can do string art at home with your kids:

First pick out the wood piece that you will use for your project. You can get them at Michaels, check the dollar bin too! If you think you want to hang it on the wall then attach at picture hanger to the back.

Draw your design on the wood. We used several examples here in our tutorial just to show you that anything goes!

Next hammer down the nails around the perimeter of your design. They don't need to be too deep but deep enough so that your string doesn't pull them out. Most kids really enjoyed this part, but they might need a little help too!

Next tie a knot around one of the nail heads. Tie it nice and snug so that it is anchored. This is your starting point for the string art.

Now weave your string around the nail pieces. Try to stick to the perimeter of the design. Be careful not to cross over into the non-string area. A good example is like coloring outside of the lines.

Once certain parts of the design are full of string (for example, the "Z" below. Tie off the remaining string so that that part is secure. Move onto the next part of the design (see the "A" below) and string away.

Once done, stand back and enjoy your new masterpiece. We will be showing you all of ours once they are DONE!

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Stuff The Bus with Stonybrook Day Camp!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Tue, 31 Jul 2012 21:08:00 +0000

STUFF THE BUS WITH HEALTHY FOOD FOR C.H.O.W. (Community Hunger Outreach Warehouse)

ON TUESDAY, AUGUST 7th

BONUS VAN CHALLENGE ALERT! IN ADDITION TO HELPING FAMILIES IN NEED, 500 POINTS WILL BE AWARDED TO OUR WINNING VAN!

Can our campers stuff a camp bus with healthy food donations? It’s a challenge to the camp! And we think they can do it!

And to make it a little more fun, it’s also a van challenge. We want to see which van can bring in the most food and help stuff our very own Stonybrook Day Camp bus with healthy food for C.H.O.W. So please have your camper come to camp on TUESDAY AUGUST 7^th with a food donation (see below for requested items). It will be a great opportunity for them to help us do something great for others.

All collected food will be packed onto a camp bus and driven to Livingston where our camp bus will meet the official Stuff the Bus bus. Stonybrook Day Camp will kick off the afternoon food drive tour through Livingston, which has been organized in part by one of our camp families. Stonybrook’s food will be transferred onto the larger bus, which will make some additional stops, including Livingston’s Shoprite from 3:15-3:45pm & Livingston’s Kings from 4:15-4:50pm before parking at the town Oval for the National Night Out festivities. Please feel free to spread the word to those who may want to come meet the bus at one of its stops and make a food donation. In fact, it would be great if you did!

All food will be donated to C.H.O.W. (Community Hunger Outreach Warehouse). C.H.O.W, a project of the Livingston Clergy Association, will distribute collected items to families in need. Housed at St. Philomena’s, C.H.O.W. is open to families in need on a drop-in basis. Excess food collected is donated to soup kitchens and food pantries in the surrounding areas. For additional information on C.H.O.W, contact Sister Barbara at (973) 992-1382.

The non-perishable items requested for collection are: canned tuna, napkins, toilet tissue, paper towels, breakfast cereal, condiments, canned beans, dried beans, pasta, white or brown rice, pasta sauces, macaroni & cheese, powdered milk, canned fruit, canned vegetables, baby food and jelly & jam. Only new, unopened items will be collected. Please make sure items are not expired and healthy items are appreciated.

C.H.O.W.’s requests for assistance has only increased, and this time of year is when C.H.O.W. is often in need of donations. Please help Stonybrook Day Camp stuff the bus with food for C.H.O.W. and help kickoff this important food drive. THANK YOU!

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Stonybrook Spotlight: Ben Denson

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Mon, 30 Jul 2012 22:55:00 +0000

Stonybrook Spotlight: Senior Counselor Ben Denson

Ben Denson was very excited to be a Senior Counselor this year and very excited to also be with the Spartans for the third year in a row. And the feelings are mutual as this group is tight and all about camp. Ben knows this group so well and has grown attached to them. With some very athletic kids and some very creative kids, the group is varied in interests but very respectful of each other. They are all very close friends and they like to have fun together, and that is what makes this so much fun for Ben. And they happen to be very entertaining and provide many a good laugh.

Statistics on Ben

Age: 18

School: Recently graduated from Millburn High School and he will be headed to Tulane in the Fall. May major in economics.

History at Camp: He started camp at Stonybrook three years ago as a Junior Counselor.

Hobbies: Loves golf, hanging with friends, video games and music.

Other: Ben is REALLY, REALLY, REALLY excited for college.

Ben’s Favorite Camp Memory

When asked about his favorite camp memory, it was tough but he replied, “I will go with this one. Last year’s Camel Beach/Water Day is my favorite camp memory. It was just a whole lot of fun. It was a rare time that the group was split up and I really got to know some of my campers even better than before. We had a blast.”

What Ben Loves About Camp

When asked about what he loves about camp, he replied, “I love how many great and rewarding friendships I have made at this camp. I will remain friends with many long after we leave SBDC. It has great kids and great staff”.

Ben’s Advice for New Counselors

When asked about his advice for new counselors, he replied, “Don’t take it too seriously and don’t slack off….. find that middle ground. It’s the balance in between that allows you to really excel at the job. And also be sure to drink lots of water and get sleep. These kids are high energy!”

Ben is a well-rounded and responsible counselor. He is super engaging with his campers and he really looks out for them. He has a very positive attitude and he is just one of those counselors that everyone, staff and campers alike, love to be around. Ben, the Spartans and all of Stonybrook is lucky to have you for Summer 2012!

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Week 5--Highlights!

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Fri, 27 Jul 2012 23:09:00 +0000

As we turn the corner of camp being halfway done, we didn't let anyone down with a fun filled week 5. Although mother nature was a little moody and roared here there, our Stonybrook Campers ROARED even louder. Teen Xtreme had 2 amazing trips to Patriots game and to Point Pleasant beach and the rest of camp enjoyed all of our fun themes, not to mention late night, Marigold Mike, and the grand finale....The "Stonybrook's Got Talent" show! Ask your campers all about them all. Get ready because the last 3 weeks are jammed pack full of fun!

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Stonybrook Spotlight: Josh Laveman

noreply@blogger.com (Stonybrook Day Camp) — Thu, 26 Jul 2012 23:07:00 +0000

Stonybrook Spotlight: Lifeguard Josh Laveman

Josh Laveman is a fixture at Stonybrook Day Camp’s pool and the campers just love him. He can always been seen with a big smile and he is very connected with his campers. He is super sweet and soft spoken. While very responsible, he is also laid back and that combination makes him a pleasure to work with. You can count on him to get the job done well. In addition to being a Lifeguard/Swim instructor, Josh is also a Van Counselor and he makes it fun for those kids.

Statistics on Josh

Age: 19

School: Heading into Sophomore at Duke University majoring in Environmental Science.

Years at Camp: 2^nd summer as a Lifeguard & Swim Instructor (mainly in Jr. pool)

Activities: He is currently in the Duke University Marching Band, Pep Band, and Jewish Student Union Board. Josh has played saxophone since the 6^th grade and he was in the Livingston High School Marching Band and Jazz Band. Our Upper Camp Boys Director, Jim Hegedus, was his band teacher from 4th grade through HS.

Hobbies: Huge Mets fan as well as all Duke sports. He also likes biking and hiking

Long term goals: Business School or maybe Law School

Thoughts on band: The cool thing about being a band "geek" is that you get to make so many friends in college and high school. In fact you really meet people faster than if you are on your own. Josh gets to travel with school for ALL band activities. He even gets to hang with mascots. Josh LOVES band.

SBDC favorite memory: Josh enjoys working hard on something with his campers and then he gets to see them kids do on their own. It could be either dunking their head or swimming the length of pool. He loves that part of being an instructor.

Thoughts on Being a Lifeguard/Swim Instructor: The pool community is fantastic. Staff is great and he has developed long lasting friendships. It’s a great job.

Advice for other Lifeguards/Swim Instructors: Develop lessons to fit different types of kids, from little to 5th grade. Personalize the experience and just have a great time.

We just love Josh Laveman and we are thrilled he loves Stonybrook. But most importantly, our campers love him and are thrilled he loves Stonybrook!

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