
Dear Friends of Camp Emerald Bay,
When I was asked by other members of the Camp Emerald Bay Association Board to become
the EBA president two years ago, I was unsure about taking on the position. What convinced
me to finally accept is that the EBA Board is a dedicated group of talented individuals who all
share the same deep abiding love for Camp Emerald Bay. (It also helps immeasurably that I am
friends with all of them as well.) I cannot thank the members of the EBA Board enough – every
one of you are miracle workers.
I was given a clear mandate: To reach out and expand our membership. I am proud to say that
we are definitely on that path, although I cannot and will not, take credit for this.
The lion’s share of acclaim goes to EBA Board Member Bob Cook. Bob’s tireless efforts have
led to the creation of the Young Emerald Bay Association (YEBA), an incredible group
composed of former EB Staff who are in their mid 20’s and have worked at Camp in the 2000’s.
I am beyond pleased that people such as Chris Youssef, Lauren O’Rourke (formerly Murphy)
and Patrick Granger are the three of the leaders of the YEBA. As of this writing, the YEBA has
held a number of fellowship events, including two harbor cruises and several land based
events. These events have a good number of people enjoying the festivities. In addition, the
YEBA has more fellowship events on the way, both locally and out of state. The YEBA has also contributed financially to the EBA and are planning to stage a set-up
weekend at Camp in early March.
To be sure, the EBA will not rest on its laurels – we continue to reach out to bring others into
the fold (or bring back to the fold, as the case may be). The 2024 EBA Reunion was one of the most successful ever in terms of participation, fellowship and giving. We raised over $40,000.00, which will go to supporting Camp infrastructure and program as well as scholarships for those Scouts whom otherwise would be unable to afford a week at EB. The EBA also had a significant presence at the Emerald Bay 100th Anniversary Gala held at the Skirball Cultural Center earlier this year.
Finally, after two years, I made the decision to step down as EBA Board President. If this were
like any other year where we would be accepting donations for more kayaks or archery targets,
I would have stayed on. However, as I assume most of you know by now, in January, Camp
Emerald Bay will have but 4 years left on the lease – and lease renewal is not a sure thing.
I am not the one to be the face of the EBA under such circumstances. The incoming EBA
Board President, Rich Wise, is far more qualified to steer the ship in these uncertain waters.
Of course, I will remain on the EBA Board as long as they see fit to have me, and needless to
say, I continue to be helping out at Camp on Summer weekends and during the fall and spring
seasons. (Have chicken and/or cow suit, will travel.)
Thank you again, everyone.
Fellowship and Comrades Lasting,
John Meyers
Please join me and the members of the EBA in extending and enhancing the legacy of our Camp by making a year-end commitment today.