Jim Graham shared a happy snapshot with us last week. He and Susie, vacationing on Martha’s Vineyard, stopped by a Beacon Academy gathering for new students, recent grads and their families to say hello to Johnathan and Justin Charles (both Gunnery class of 2010). The event, held at Sailing Camp Park, was part of a busy orientation program for new Beacon students - they had already met with Alan Dershowitz and Charlene Hunter Gault and managed to squeak in a performance of a Midsummer Night's Dream. The Charles brothers were asked to share their experiences with the incoming students. Johnathan, in particular, gave a heartfelt talk about Beacon, what to expect, and how to make a strong transition to boarding school later on. The brothers – known on our campus for their passion and commitment – certainly had it figured out. Justin won the Teddy Award as a freshman and senior prefect Johnathan received The Gunnery Cup at graduation. The brothers also spearheaded The Gunnery’s hugely successful Haiti relief efforts – we couldn’t ask for better ambassadors and are glad to hear they are doing well.

I drove up to Salisbury, CT last night to have dinner with good friend, Peter Feen ’99, and his girlfriend Becky Belcher. I also got to check out the progress on their joint venture – Peter Becks Village Store. The newly renovated space is looking great, with beautiful color choices and lots of fun outdoor gear and memorabilia. I love the benches made of old skis especially! Their sign is up, the floors and fixtures are in and Peter and Becky are busy with decorations and inventory. I even got to preview some of their merchandise and was sorely tempted to get out my credit card.

The store – right on Main Street in Salisbury – is scheduled to open at the end of the summer. It’s well worth the trip if you’re in the area or check them out online at www.peterbecks.com.

The July heat wave continues and renovations to the Tisch Schoolhouse are in full swing.  Both entrances have been torn down in preparation for the new entry courtyard on the quad and the two-story addition at the back of the building.  Foundations are in and the block walls for the elevator (can you believe we're actually going to have one on campus?) are going up.  There is something new to see each day - check out the photos below or the latest addition to the photo gallery.

The boathouse is usually a busy place, with rowers and coxswains and coaches, launching shells for practice or loading the trailer for yet another away race, but summer is a different story.  There is peace and quiet and time for a swim or a morning kayak or just enjoying a book on the dock.  Most recently, a group of faculty gathered with friends and family for a barbeque before the 4th of July fireworks show - an annual Lake Waramaug event.