Introduction: Readers of this website may have read stories some months back about the huge controversy in which BB Camp on Town Island in Lake of the Woods had found itself. You can read a number of different stories on this website simply by searching for BB Camp.

Those stories give a great deal of detail about what happened, beginning with a story posted on April 10 titled “BB Camp finds itself embroiled in controversy over camp co-director Jacob Brodovsky.”
Subsequently, we reported that the BB Camp board of directors had given a full vote of confidence to Brodovsky, only to find itself just a few days later ordered by the Jewish Federation of Winnipeg to reverse that decision and fire Brodovsky. (The Jewish Federation has consistently ignored requests from us to offer an explanation why it demanded the firing of Brodovsky.)
On April 27, however, we reported that the board of BB Camp had just appointed two new co-directors: Aliza Millo and Sarah Gould. You can read that story at “Well, that didn’t take long.” (We should note, however, as we did in that story posted on April 27, that Millo’s and Gould’s titles were “co-director,” not “co-executive director,” which were the titles held by their predecessors, Brodovsky and Lexie Yurman (who also happen to be married to each other). Although Jacob Brodovsky had been fired as camp co-executive director, Lexie Yurman happened to be on maternity leave at the time of Jacob’s firing. Whether she will be allowed to return as executive director next summer has not been announced by the board.
Recently, writer Jon van der Veen went out to BB Camp to see for himself how the camp had done this summer and to talk to both Millo and Gould.

Here is Jon’s report:
Nestled on Town Island in Lake of the Woods, BB Camp has been a cherished summer haven for generations of campers, counselors, and families. This year, BB welcomed back two dedicated staff members, Sarah Gould and Aliza Millo, to run the camp; their deep ties to the camp highlight its enduring magic and evolving traditions. In a heartfelt conversation, they shared their reasons for returning, the camp’s unique wilderness focus, and its vibrant Jewish programming that continues to foster community and growth.

A Homecoming Rooted in History:

Sarah’s connection to BB Camp spans decades. Starting as an eight-year-old camper, she progressed through the ranks to become a counselor, then to teaching canoeing and leading the camp’s renowned four-week AC (Advanced Camp) canoe trip. After years away—working at another camp, earning a graduate degree in anthropology, and raising a daughter—she returned this summer. “I’ve always been part of BB Camp,” Sarah said. “It held a special place in my heart, and when we heard there was an opportunity to come back, it just seemed like the right thing to do.”

Aliza, too, has deep roots at BB Camp. A former camper who completed the AC canoe trip, she later served as a counselor before moving to Toronto. Even during her time away, she stayed engaged through volunteer work and the camp’s alumni committee. “It feels like home,” Aliza shared. “It’s like a place where all Jewish people can come and feel completely safe and secure, like they belong.” Her personal milestone of meeting her husband at camp and marrying on the island underscores the lifelong bonds formed here.

The Wilderness Heart of BB Camp:

At the core of BB Camp’s identity is its wilderness program, a tradition that remains as strong today as it was decades ago. The pinnacle is the AC program, a four-week canoe trip where campers, aged 15, venture into the wilderness, covering up to 20 miles a day with multiple portages.

This year, five AC trips took approximately 50 campers into the remote reaches of Lake of the Woods, equipped with spot devices and satellite phones for safety—an update from Sarah’s era as a tripper when groups were entirely cut off from civilization.

The wilderness program starts young, with even the youngest campers, aged 11 to 12, embarking on overnight trips around the island’s conservation-protected campsites. As they grow, their adventures extend farther, culminating in the intensive AC trip. “The more skills they have, the more confident they feel,” Sarah noted, highlighting activities like knot-tying, fire-building, and canoeing that empower campers to embrace the outdoors. This skill-based learning is being revitalized this summer, with plans to bring back canoeing awards and wooden beads for achievements like sleeping under the stars—a tradition that resonates deeply with alumni.

A Vibrant Jewish Identity:

BB Camp’s commitment to Jewish culture is equally robust, thanks to the efforts of the “J-Crew,” a group of staff who have spearheaded a revival of Judaic programming. Aliza explained their grassroots initiative is inteded to amplify Jewish identity- something she says, was in already in motion before she and Sarah returned as camp directors.

A standout event is Israel Day, a camp-wide celebration that transforms the island into a vibrant tribute to Israeli culture. This year, campers “climbed Masada” at the ropes course, relaxed at a “Dead Sea spa” with oatmeal and cucumber slices, and enjoyed a “Tel Aviv beach party” with kayaking and canoe races. Falafel and Bissli snacks added authentic flavor, while decorations like Israeli flags and red thread bracelets created an immersive experience. “One kid said, ‘Israel Day is heaven,’” Aliza said – a testament to the program’s success. Aliza noted that the staff set up Israel Day at night, so that when the campers woke up it was a big surprise to see the camp transformed!

Beyond Israel Day, the camp weaves Jewish values into daily life, using Hebrew words like “chadar” for the dining hall. Shabbat programming offers flexibility, with counselors designing activities like book clubs or arts and crafts, ensuring every camper finds their place. “It’s about being intentional,” Aliza said, noting the camp’s efforts to foster a shared Jewish language and sense of belonging.

Aliza also informed me that BB camp had two Israeli staff members this year. Although not a new phenomenon, their continued incorporation into camp life provides a valuable cross-cultural exchange and helps enhance the Jewish identity.

Continuity and Change

Despite the passage of time, much of BB Camp feels unchanged. The swim docks, the energy of kids running down camp trails, and the closing tradition of the “burning B’s”—a raft with the camp’s initials set alight on the final night—evoke nostalgia for Sarah and Aliza. “The energy hasn’t changed,” Aliza said, reflecting on the familiar giggles and excitement that define camp life. Yet, modern touches like printed emails from parents and safety devices for wilderness trips reflect thoughtful evolution. However, BB Camp isn’t in a rush to adopt all the trappings of modern life, wary of ruining the wilderness experience. “We want them to experience the wilderness without distractions,” Sarah explained, emphasizing that the camp’s no-phone policy offers kids a rare chance to disconnect from a technology dominated world.

The camp’s generational continuity is striking. Sarah noted, saying that she would see the children of former counselors and campers, with families from Toronto, Vancouver, and beyond sending their kids to experience BB Camp’s magic. Kids like to find the names of their parents and other relatives on the canoe trip paddles – dating back to 1968, that line the dining hall walls. “There’s a real generational continuity here,” she said. “It’s a place that’s special in people’s hearts.”

This generational continuity is something Sarah experienced first-hand this summer, as she brought along her young daughter when she took the job at camp. “ She loves it,” Sarah remarked. “We live in Toronto now, but I wanted her to be part of the BB camp family.”

A Place of Growth and Connection:

With 117 campers and 28 leaders-in-training this session, BB Camp buzzes with activity. From the competitive Maccabi Games to canoe trips, the schedule is packed yet purposeful, with a balance between the arts and the outdoors.

The camp’s small cabins, ranging from seven to twelve campers, ensure personalized attention, with counselors, while staff-in-training fosters a supportive environment.

For Sarah and Aliza, BB Camp is more than a summer getaway—it’s a transformative space where kids grow through challenges, whether conquering a ropes course, paddling a canoe, or simply sleeping away from home. “Kids find their thing here,” Sarah said. “From that challenge comes growth.” The camp’s pristine wilderness – free from the distractions of modern life, amplifies this impact, offering a rare opportunity for decompression and self-discovery.

As Sarah and Aliza walked through the camp, pointing out the tripper track—a relic from the island’s days as a 1950s army base—and sharing stories of their own camp days, their passion was palpable. “There’s nowhere else like Lake of the Woods,” Sarah said, reflecting on the solitude and beauty of the AC trips. “It’s a true wilderness experience.”

After a successful grassroots campaign to save Towne Island from development in 2021, BB Camp now partners with the Nature Conservancy of Canada as stewards of Towne Island. Protecting and caring for the environment, its pristine forests and wildlife, is a key value instilled in camp life.

A Community United:

This year, BB Camp has seen an outpouring of support from the broader camp community, including partnerships with other Jewish camps like Camp Massad. “There’s no need for rivalry,” Aliza said, noting the collaborative spirit that strengthens Winnipeg’s Jewish camping scene. With only about 14,000 Jews in the city, the existence of two such nearby camps is a remarkable asset.

As each summer comes and goes, BB Camp remains a beacon of tradition, growth, and community. For Sarah, Aliza, and countless others, it’s a place where memories are made, skills are honed, and Jewish identity is celebrated—a true home away from home on the picturesque shores of Town Island.

The Mauro Institute is very pleased to be offering the first two events in a new series – The Hersh and Arna Shefrin Dialogues on Peace and Conflict Resolution.

Dialogue #1 – Wednesday, September 17 | 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm | Hanley Hall (Room 220) St. Paul’s College (reception to follow)

The Hersh and Arna Shefrin Dialogues on Peace and Conflict Resolution

Resisting the Perceived Limits of Dialogue

Middle powers such as Canada depend on the power of dialogue to create institutions and agreements with dispute settlement mechanisms designed to level the playing field with big powers. The post-war architecture of multilateralism that depended on American leadership and involvement and the willingness to underwrite the global operating system is fractured with President Donald Trump’s premise to “make America great again”. This presentation by former Canadian diplomat, Colin Robertson and roundtable discussion will consider if it can be put back together or how it should change, and what forms of dialogue that would entail. 

Panelists will include Dr. Ursula Lehmkuhl and Dr. Manuel Fröhlich of Trier University, and Dr. James Fergusson and Dr. Stephan Jaeger of the University of Manitoba. The roundtable discussion will be moderated by Dr. Andrea Charron, Director, Centre for Defence and Security Studies, and Professor, International Relations University of Manitoba 

Reserve your free tickets to the lecture 7:00 pm, in-person at St. Paul’s College

Livestream on the Mauro Institute YouTube channel.

Dialogue #2 – Thursday, September 25 | 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm | Fr. Jensen SJ Theatre (Room 100) St. Paul’s College

The Hersh and Arna Shefrin Dialogues on Peace and Conflict Resolution

Leading With Compassion Amid Conflict and Violence

Deep human connection and providing service from a place of compassion is increasingly difficult in our complex and polarizing world. In our quest for peace and justice, is compassion simply a pollyannish illusion? Come, hear, and have a conversation with our panelists who have strived to bring compassion into their work in different ways. Hear their challenges and triumphs as they dared to lead with compassion in times of conflict and violence. 

Panelists will include Dr. Bob Chrismas, Team Lead, Winnipeg Community Safety Team, Dr. Shauna Labman, Executive Director, Global College and Associate Professor, University of Winnipeg, and Devon Clunis, Former Chief of Police, Winnipeg Police Service, Author, and International Consultant. The roundtable discussion will be moderated by Dr. Melanie Soderstrom, Professor, Department of Psychology, University of Manitoba

The Hersh and Arna Shefrin Dialogues on Peace and Conflict Resolution are free and open to all. The dialogues are both in-person and available to be streamed on the Mauro Institute’s YouTube channel. 

Reserve your free tickets to the lecture 7:00 pm, in-person at St. Paul’s College (free pre-lecture reception from 6:30 pm)

Livestream on the Mauro Institute YouTube channel.

[ALSO: Save the Date – the 2025 Sol Kanee Lecture on Peace and Justice is Monday, November 3, 7:00 pm at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights]

The Hersh and Arna Shefrin Dialogues on Peace and Conflict Resolution are generously supported by a gift from Dr. Hersh [BSc(Hons)/70] and Arna Shefrin [DipDHyg/70; BA/71]. The Shefrin Dialogues were established to invite two (or more) leading thinkers / speakers with different views of a specific conflict to present and exchange perspectives on topical issues related to peace, justice, and conflict resolution.

The Hersh and Arna Shefrin Dialogues on Peace and Conflict Resolution are free and open to all. The dialogues are both in-person and available to be streamed on the Mauro Institute’s YouTube channel.

Winnipeg Friends of Israel are thrilled to welcome Dr. Ted Rosenberg on Sunday, September 14 at 7:00 PM for a presentation that promises to be powerful, timely, and deeply moving.

Dr. Rosenberg will share insights from his new book, Ayekha (Where Are You?), and speak about his experiences at the University of British Columbia — where he made national headlines after resigning from the medical school in protest of its failure to address antisemitism. His story is both courageous and inspiring, and it calls on each of us to consider: Where are we when our community is under attack?

The evening will be moderated by Dr. Bryan Shwartz, and will include time for Q&A with Dr. Rosenberg.

📖 About the Book
Ayekha draws from Torah, the October 7 Hamas massacre, and today’s alarming rise in antisemitism. It challenges Jews and allies to confront hate with clarity, action, and moral responsibility. All book sales support the first Jewish day school in Victoria, BC, founded on October 7, 2024.

Copies are available on Amazon, and thanks to Dr. Cathy Moser, you can also pre-order directly (email: cathy.g.moser@gmail.com). Dr. Rosenberg will gladly autograph your copy after the event.

📅 Date: Sunday, September 14
🕖 Time: 7:00 PM
📍 Location: Shared upon registration
👉 Register here: https://tinyurl.com/mv8tvwhv

📰 Dr. Rosenberg was recently featured in the Canadian Jewish News. You can read more here: CJN article

Don’t miss this inspiring and thought-provoking evening — one that speaks to our moment in history and to the  responsibility each of us carries.

We are also invited to attend another timely and exciting event and hope you could join us.

The Druze of Syria and Israel: A New Chapter

Join us for a rare and intimate fireside chat with Carlos Matni and Adham Tayfour — both members of the Syrian Druze community now living in Manitoba.

🌿 Discover the untold struggles, resilience, and hopes of the Druze community in Sweida, Syria.
🤝 Learn how Israel is stepping in during a time of crisis.
🌍 Explore the possibilities for collaboration between the Druze and Jewish communities — a conversation of unity, survival, and shared future.

📅 Thursday, September 18
🕢 7:30 PM
📍 Location provided upon registration

Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insight, ask questions, and be part of an important dialogue that bridges cultures and communities.

👉 Register now to reserve your spot:
https://shorturl.fm/SoWuv