Too excited to sleep...

I'm sitting here watching the minutes countdown to the JAMers arrival. We've actually had one participant arrive early, and just from the early moments of talking to him, I'm already super excited about the caliber of the JAM 2008 class.

Staff week has been thrilling (exhausting, but amazing!). I can't believe how lucky I am to be working with such a fantastic group of activists! Each staff member has an incredible story, and I'm sure the JAMers are going to learn so much from them! We have been busy planning fabulous programs that relate to facets of Jewish, political, and social justice life! I am personally looking forward to the dynamic speakers we have lined up for summer 2008.

The first day alone captures the essence of JAM--we have programming ranging from the social to social justice, including an introduction to social justice film-making from Yoni Brook, a director making a movie on our very own Summer JAM Director, Shmuly! JAMers will also have their first class of the first session, which will prepare them to for their first day of service on Tuesday! By Thursday, we will be ready for our briefing at the White House and our first DC recreational field trip. I'm already excited for the Fourth of July on Friday--there is no better place to celebrate Independence Day than our nation's capital!

I've am never ceased to be amazed at how much I love this city. My room for the summer overlooks the State Department! Only in DC can you be surrounded by this much power and hope (seemingly two contradictory aspirations). It really is a city of paradoxes, and I can't wait to share "the best district in the nation" with 41 of its newest residents. (Although the summer weather can be get to be a bit of a problem...)

Getting more excited as the minutes tick by...

-Pamela
Assistant Director of Summer JAM