It is with deep gratitude that we begin the new year with very exciting news: through the generosity of Harriet and Gregg Orley, and their commitment to Jewish camping, this summer Tamarack campers will embrace a new signature space called, "The HuG!"
This transformational project includes three prominent areas at Camp Maas: the lakefront, degal (flagpole), and the immediate space behind the chadar ochel (dining hall). At Phillips Lake, in a new location (closer to the water), the entire camp community will enjoy a state-of-the-art, covered amphitheater, surrounded by the serenity of nature. Additionally, degal is being redesigned and relandscaped — better suited to accommodate large gatherings and sheltered areas perfectly fit for villages and bunks. Finally, campers and staff can enjoy a newly created space behind the chadar ochel, where Adirondack chairs will surround the beautifully enhanced area — adding comfort, color, and new opportunities to quietly connect.
For decades, Harriet and Gregg have been committed to the Jewish Federation of Detroit, its board, committees, and agencies — along with their equally valued work in other critical areas of Jewish engagement (see below). Through driven and intelligent leadership, they are inspirational supporters of our community. Now, following many intentional conversations and meaningful visits to Camp Maas, they recognized that camp is needed more than ever and became motivated to further invest in the connection of Jewish life at Tamarack Camps. In order to sustain future generations of Jewish continuity — in our community and around the world — they were motivated to help establish a new spiritual home of Shabbat and daily gatherings at camp.
The above renderings depict views of the new outdoor amphitheater, the gathering area at degal (flagpole), and a newly created space behind the chadar ochel (dining hall).
"Looking back, some of Harriet’s best childhood memories were the years she spent at Camp Tamarack. Friendships from so many years past remain relevant and meaningful in her life.
Gregg’s great joy has been the synagogue allegiance and Shabbat attendance he has committed himself to for the last 40 years.
Together, we have combined our recollections of the past and vision for the future into a new gathering place at Camp Tamarack; to be called The HuG.
This new outdoor theater, and its surrounding grounds, will become a place for assembly, and Shabbat prayer, and inclusion, and embrace.
The HuG is destined to serve as a platform for hope and unity.
May the gift of this new addition touch the hearts and hugs of generations to come at Tamarack Camps."
- Harriet and Gregg Orley
Harriet and Gregg are special people… and the name of this space is as meaningful as its purpose. They are quiet and unassuming philanthropists — the "HuG" only includes their first initials — and they desired a name that emotionally fit the essence of these areas. Indeed, the space encourages a home of positive connectivity, where campers and staff can embrace Judaism to honor Shabbat and other gatherings. The HuG contains a sweetened link of five generations… with more to come! And, within this creation, many of camp’s principles are sewn: togetherness in an inclusive environment, warmly embracing community.
And we want to add this: throughout the entirety of this planning process, their partnership has also been a gift of genuine friendship to our entire year-round team. We are blessed… and, now, to Harriet and Gregg, we offer a hug.
Now, as a camp community, we can't wait to welcome you "home" and gather at the "HuG" in the Summer of 2024 — and beyond!
