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News
May 27, 20200

In Memory of Tony Viehmann

It is with a heavy heart that I write to inform you all that Tony Viehmann passed away on Friday afternoon, May 22, at his home in Cape Porpoise. His passing was peaceful and Nancy and his family were by his side.

Tony has been a cornerstone of KBIA and our local community for decades. Many generations of students have benefitted from his kindness, humor, knowledge, patience, and passion for the seaside. Tony’s impact is deeply felt – for some, he was the reason they stayed in school while for others, he was an inspiration to become a teacher in their own right.

Nancy shared with me that at a KBIA staff orientation Tony remarked that he had been involved with KBIA for so long that when he started, some of the new staff had not yet been born! Growing up in Kennebunk, my earliest memory of Tony is from one of his leathercraft classes that I took when I was in fourth grade. Years later, as a teacher myself, he welcomed me to the KBIA faculty as a colleague without a second thought. He was the type of person who could lift your day with a simple smile; his generosity of spirit was one-of-a-kind.

Tony’s impact in life will be felt for many years to come, particularly for those within the KBIA community. It is often said that as long as we hold the memory of a loved one in our heart that they are never truly gone; in this way, I know Tony will always be with us.

A live virtual service will be held at www.churchonthecape.org at 10:00 AM on Friday, June 5, 2020. A celebration of Tony’s life will be celebrated in Cape Porpoise by the water in the summer of 2021.

Simply put, KBIA is a better place because of Tony. The entire KBIA family offers our love, support, and deepest sympathies to Nancy and their entire family.

 
Mimi Fox

Executive Director
Kennebunk Beach Improvement Association
 
News
May 23, 20200

2020 Summer Update Outline

The 110th season at KBIA may look different, but we are still here. To start the summer, KBIA will offer an abbreviated amount of classes both virtual (starting June 22) and on-site (starting July 6) to members only. 

Summer Update Highlights 

KBIA digital community network:

  • Free to all members
  • Details and registration for virtual classes/event schedule available on June 5
  • Online classes from June 22 to July 10
    • For two age groups: Ages 4-6 and Ages 7+
    • KBIA instructors to provide live classes, classes will also be recorded and available to view at a later time
    • Parent/student feedback requested – let us know how we are doing and we may extend further into the summer! 
  • Weekly themed virtual events
    • Movie nights
    • Combined tween and teen night
    • Family game night
    • Happy hour for parents 

Limited on-site classes:

  • Open to members only
  • Limited spots will be given to registrations already submitted
  • Priced a la carte
  • Details and registration for classes will be available on June 5
  • Classes expected to start July 6
    • Surfing
    • Yoga
    • Marine Biology
    • Family Cove Walks
    • Sand Castle Building
  • Potential waterfront activities may be available on a household sign-up basis
    • Details and fees will be shared June 15 

Become a 2020 Member and help us see the summer of 2021

  • With this membership you get:
    • Free access to 2020 Season programming
    • If you sign up by June 22, you get EARLY ACCESS to registration for 2021 Season. Registration will begin April 15, 2021 but join us this summer as a member and receive access on April 1, 2021!
  • Sign up ONLINE
  • Alternatively, print and mail the MEMBERSHIP FORM  

We hope you join our 2020 KBIA summer!

News
May 23, 20200

2020 Summer Details from KBIA

Firstly, I cannot thank you enough for all your patience. These last few months have been a whirlwind of activity and knowing that our member families are there to support us has been incredibly comforting.
 
Based on discussions, data, and guidance from the American Camp Association, the CDC, the State of Maine, and the Town of Kennebunk, the KBIA Board of Directors and I regret to share that KBIA does not feel it can safely open operations as we have in past summers. This is very sad news and I, in my first year as Executive Director, do not relish sharing it.
 
That said, KBIA is resilient. We are working very hard to come up with ways for our members to access our community – no matter where you may be this summer. The landscape of operating may be different in one or two months’ time, and if we can safely open up more physical access to our families then, rest assured, we will be exploring every possible avenue!
 
The first step we are taking is designing a digital community network for KBIA. This will be accessible to all of our members – at no additional cost – so that families can connect with one another and experience some of the places and people that keep our KBIA spirit alive year after year. The proposed schedule for these classes will be shared on June 5.
  • In the first three weeks of KBIA’s intended programming (June 22 – July 10) we will be piloting a wide range of interactive, creative programming offered for two age groups (ages 4-6 and 7+). These will be online, short classes from teachers and classes you love. Everything will be available in real time and also accessible in a recorded fashion. We are taking the most creative approach possible and do not intend these classes to relegate kids to computer only based learning. We want you to bring outdoor excursions to the lessons and create and engage with one another! If we receive positive feedback after the first two weeks then we will continue these classes throughout the summer!
  • We will be holding virtual movie nights, a combined virtual tween and teen night, a virtual family night of games, and even a virtual happy hour for parents. Nights will be themed and there will be challenges with prizes for winners!
  • Importantly, these offerings will be emailed out ONLY to active members so that we can prioritize the digital safely of our children and families.
  • Any member who joins this year will have free access to this programming AND will receive EARLY ACCESS TO REGISTRATION FOR 2021. Registration will be available to the general public on April 15, 2021 but for anyone who joins this year BEFORE JUNE 22, registration access will be given on APRIL 1, 2021! *This is NOT an April Fool’s joke! 🙂
Additionally, we hope to be able to offer a limited series of classes on site beginning on July 6. Some classes that we offer will be able to operate in a paired back fashion, but relatively unchanged. These classes are:
  • Surfing
  • Yoga
  • Marine Biology
  • Family Cove Walks
  • Sand Castle Building
*Priority registration for these limited spots will be given to registrations that have already been submitted. Full details on these classes will be shared on June 5 at which time, registration for these classes will formally begin.
 
We hope to be able to offer a few more waterfront activities on a household sign-up basis (parents are encouraged to participate). All these on-site classes will be priced a la carte for members. Details on all these classes and the fees associated with them will be available on June 15 – so be on the lookout!
 
One thing is for certain. Without the contribution of our community – our members – we will not make it through this uncertain time. The financial impact of not opening our doors creates a huge hole in our ability to function in the future. Now, more than ever, your membership will make a lasting difference to the future of KBIA. We will continue to offer ways to engage with the place and the people you hold dear throughout this summer but we simply cannot do it without you. I encourage you to consider becoming a member to help us see the summer of 2021, access the digital community we will build and grow together, and get the opportunity to experience a more intimate and personal connection to our campus through the small group and household specific experiences we will curate as offerings.
 
To sign up for a membership or make a donation online, please visit: HERE
 
On the site you can choose your level or customize the amount you wish to give. Any amount is gladly accepted and will help us work through this challenging time.
 
Alternatively, you can print out and mail the membership form available on the KBIA website: HERE
 
Thank you for being a part of KBIA’s incredible history. I sincerely hope that you will join me in participating in our offerings this summer so that we can continue to share KBIA in the future. 
 
Best,
 
Mimi Fox
Executive Director
 
News
May 23, 20200

KBIA 2020 Summer Season Update from President

It is hard to believe that Memorial Day weekend is upon us, and it sure doesn’t feel like it with the incredibly difficult times we have all been through the last couple of months. I am hoping that everyone is safe and healthy and that you can all enjoy the holiday weekend as best as possible given the circumstances.
 
As promised, Mimi, the Board of Directors and I wanted to update you on the status of KBIA for this summer. As most of you are aware, Maine’s Governor Janet Mills has set very restrictive guidelines for the state. We must adhere to these guidelines as well as abide by the CDC, ACA (American Camp Association) and local rules and restrictions. With this being said, I am sure you can imagine that this summer at KBIA will not be anywhere near the experience that we have all loved and cherished over the last 110 years.
 
We are going to try to manage this by continuing to communicate with everyone on a regular basis throughout the weeks leading up to the season as well as all summer long. As of today, I can announce the following:
  • KBIA will NOT open as scheduled on June 22nd and remain closed until after July 4th
  • The playground will remain closed until further notice
  • Smith House and Strong Cottage will not open and remain closed indefinitely
Obviously, this is very sobering news, but unfortunately, we have no choice here. 
 
On a positive note, Mimi has been working very hard on KBIA programming that will be acceptable to offer our membership as we move through the re-opening phases this summer. This will initially be virtual, but Mimi and the Programming Committee is planning some great ideas for these programs and she will be sharing all the details tomorrow. Once Maine moves to Phase III in July, we will be looking to add live programs on site that meet all the safety criteria across the board. Programs such as Family Cove Walks, Marine Biology, Yoga, Surfing, Sand Castle Building, and select waterfront classes are amongst consideration assuming there are no setbacks. Naturally, these will be paired back enrollments to align with gathering restrictions.
 
We are also in discussions with our partners at Edgcomb and Webhannet about tennis and golf instruction that meets all the criteria necessary. At the moment we cannot offer these two programs, but we are monitoring all the guidelines and if things shift, and we can offer these programs within the State’s guidance then we will.
 
In closing, I can’t emphasize enough how lucky we are to have such a wonderful and caring community in Kennebunk Beach. Without your generosity and support over the years, we would never have made it to our 110th season! Realizing that there is no avoiding a shortfall this year, I am graciously asking that you continue to support our beloved KBIA by renewing your membership this season. We will be doing everything we can to make this summer as normal as possible and with your help we will get through this tumultuous time and rise out of it stronger than ever. 
 
I look forward to seeing you all this summer. Be safe and stay well! 
 
Warm Regards,
 
John Bauman
President KBIA Board of Directors
 
Important Links:
News
April 15, 20200

KBIA COVID-19 Progress Report

News from the Beach
April 14, 2020
KBIA-COVID-19 Progress Report

 
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I am hoping that all of you are safe and healthy amidst this unprecedented time in history. I wanted to write and update you all where we stand to date with the ongoing COVID-19 crisis as it relates to KBIA.

I am sure most of you are aware that Maine has closed all schools for the remainder of the year. The beaches in Kennebunk also remain closed and the area is only accessible to residents. The federal and international restrictions are also in place which all adds up to huge unknowns as to when life will start to get back to normal.

Mimi, the Board of Directors and I have stayed in close touch since Mimi’s e-blast/video update late last month, and we are trying to remain cautiously optimistic that we are heading in the right direction with the COVID-19 crisis. That being said, we are going to continue to plan with the hopes that KBIA will be able to open for the 2020 season.

This whole pandemic has moved at lightning pace and the recovery from it will be determined by many factors including:

– ongoing testing for the infection
– the antibody test to determine just how many people really had the virus
– lifting of stay at home restrictions, and reopening of state and national borders
– reopening of the economy federally and locally
– social distancing and interaction going forward

Unfortunately, at this stage it is impossible for us to answer or predict any of these factors that will help us determine whether or not it is safe and prudent to open KBIA this summer. Therefore, Mimi, myself and the BOD will be corresponding with the membership on a regular basis to discuss every option as we move forward and ensure that we are making the best decisions for KBIA and everyone involved.

As mentioned in her last video, which I might add was terrific, Mimi is going to be sending out another video tomorrow, April 15th, that will discuss more details on the proposed registration process, timelines, and several options being explored for operation this summer.

We are all truly facing extraordinary circumstances here, but let’s remain united in overcoming these hurdles and getting through this even stronger!

Looking forward to seeing everyone this summer. Be safe and well!

Warm Regards

JB
President KBIA Board of Directors

 
 
Important Links:
 
 
 
 
(207) 967-2180
News
March 19, 20200

COVID-19 Update and KBIA Playground

News from the Beach
March 19, 2020
COVID-19 Update and KBIA Playground

 
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As part of our commitment to social distancing for the benefit of our community, KBIA will be closing the playground at Mother’s Beach until further notice to aid in COVID-19 mitigation efforts. Signage will be posted to alert the wider community.
 
I ask that you all honor the closure of the playground so that we can contribute to social distancing in a meaningful way at this important time. KBIA is a gathering place that is the setting for lifelong memories and so it is not easy for me to ask you to keep your distance from our buildings and structures at this time.
 
We know that this is a difficult time – especially for families with children. I hope that you DO take walks on the beach, enjoy the outdoors, and embrace this time with your family.
 
Summer will be here before we know it and I know the first day of KBIA will feel even more celebratory after this period of caution. Personally, I cannot wait to see the smiling faces of the kids coming down the slide at the playground, jumping into the pool, and walking around the Cove at low-tide.
 
Please stay well, and I look forward to seeing you at the beach this summer.
 
Best,
 
Mimi Fox
Executive Director
 
 
(207) 967-2180
News
March 13, 20200

KBIA and COVID-19 Updates

News from the Beach
March 13, 2020
KBIA and COVID-19 Updates

 
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On behalf of myself, our Board President John Bauman, and the whole KBIA Board of Directors, I wanted to touch base with all of you to share with you how KBIA is responding to COVID-19. As a parent, I empathize with how you must be feeling. This is a challenging time, made even more challenging by all the “what if’s” and unknowns surrounding the situation.
 
Please know, that KBIA is dedicated to keeping our students, families, staff, and faculty safe. When we do open, we will be ready to do our best to provide a hygienic environment for all who visit our campus. We will focus on safety and health by keeping all visitors to our campus informed with up-to-date information and emphasizing healthy habits, including frequent handwashing.
 
We still have over three months until summer programming begins. As the situation evolves, so will our plans, but we also know that we have time to be ready. We will do everything we can to be ready for our 110th anniversary summer on the beach.
 
From all of us at KBIA – please stay healthy and I truly look forward to seeing you all at the beach this summer.
 
Best,
 
Mimi Fox
Executive Director
 
 
(207) 967-2180
News
February 12, 20200

Calling All Counselors & CITs!

News from the Beach
January 31, 2020
Join Us for a KBIA Summer!
 
 

 

 
 
Join us in making summer the best time of year for the kids at KBIA!

We are now accepting applications for our Junior/Senior Counselor positions for 2020. Anyone interested in the CIT program can fill out the CIT Interest Form and register for the class through the office – all are welcome! Office registrations for CIT classes will begin March 31, 2020. Our season will run nine weeks from June 22 to August 21. Paperwork is now available on our website. 
 
Counselors and CITs play an important role at KBIA, both in supporting our mission and in helping provide exceptional experiences for our children. Teens enjoy all the benefits of KBIA’s unique environment as they learn valuable skills, earn important certifications and build lasting relationships.
 
COUNSELORS
Hired by Executive Director Mimi Fox, Junior and Senior Counselors are paid employees of KBIA, so they must be at least 15 years or older (or be turning 15 on a summer birthday and have completed ninth grade). Counselors help support our programs, keep our children safe and carry out the mission of KBIA. We make every effort to match positions with counselors’ interests, where possible, and give hiring preference to former CITs. Deadline for first consideration is March 15.
 
COUNSELOR-IN-TRAINING (CIT) PROGRAM
Managed by our Counselor In Training Coordinator, our CIT program gives 13- and 14-year-olds the opportunity to work together, develop leadership skills and grow into role models for our younger campers (children who turn 13 over the summer and have completed the 7th grade are eligible to be CITs). CITs must enroll in at least two weeks of consecutive classes to be considered. Interested teens should submit their paperwork as soon as possible. PLEASE NOTE: If this is your first time participating in the CIT program, please email the CIT Coordinator BEFORE registering at [email protected] to let us know that you will be new!
 
For more details, read about the experience by clicking here.
 
We look forward to hearing from applicants!
 
 
 
Important Documents
 
 
 
(207) 967-2180
News
February 11, 20200

Letter from KBIA President 2020

News from the Beach
February 7, 2020
A Letter from President John Bauman

 
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Hopefully everyone is settling into the new decade well, and like myself, are looking forward to the Summer of 2020, which is only a few short months away. For KBIA, it will be a special one as this year marks our 110th Anniversary. We will be looking to celebrate the milestone at the 2020 Seaside Celebration in July!
             
2019 was another strong year for KBIA as we held expenses in check and programming and membership remained vibrant. This year, the camp gains a periodic extra week, so we will have nine weeks of programming as opposed to the regular eight. This will help the revenue side of things and allow us to keep any increase in fees to a minimum. Our Treasurer, John Wiseman will be sending his letter soon, which will describe our financial outlook in more detail.
             
Mimi and I have mentioned in previous communications that we have been working on some significant improvements to the facilities and grounds. The new bathrooms at Smith House were completed last spring and were well received by the membership and the entire community. Then in the fall, we completed rot repair, the installation of two new front doors, and a new “snack-shack” window at Smith House. Once the weather improves, we will be painting all the trim at Smith and Strong and installing brand new gutters on both! Other improvements include new picnic tables, a new pool cover, and new astro turf for the tent floor.
 
On the Executive Director front, on behalf of the BOD, I want to say that we are thrilled with the way Mimi has acclimated herself in her new position. She has exceeded our expectations thus far, and will continue to build on that as we move towards the 2020 season!
             
Lastly, I would like to thank all of you again for your loyalty and commitment to our beloved KBIA. Your continued support is crucial to the organization and is so greatly appreciated!
 
Best Regards,
 
JB
 
John Bauman
President of the KBIA Board of Directors
 
 
Important Links:
 
 
 
 
(207) 967-2180