"Big Al" Leibowitz

Waterfront Director, Boys Head Counselor, Director/Owner



Al Leibowitz first arrived at Tyler Hill in 1974 as the Boys Waterfront director. With him, he brought his wife Arlene and 3 children, Shari, Cali and Sean. For 15 summers, "Big Al" ran the boys waterfront with a loyal staff, who grew fond of spending their summers on the docks. It wasn't out of the ordinary for Big Al to take the youngest boys for an early morning dip in the lake or for a canoe ride across the lake to Cropsey's Barn. Al always put the campers safety first down at the waterfront, whether it be the periodic buddy checks or ensuring the campers wouldn't burn their feet on the docks during those really intense summer days.

In 1989, Al left the waterfront and joined Franko as the Boys Head Counselor. Even though this new position took him away from the waterfront, Al still maintained a watchful eye over Silver Lake. Al and Franko ran a a memorable boys side for 3 summers where it wasn't surprising to find Al standing on top of the rock with opera music blarring from the Boys HCO. Al also continued to treat the campers to the traditional Watermelon Sacrifice. When a watermelon would mysteriously appear in the crib, Al would call a group of campers down to the lake to take part in the sacrifice. If the sacrifice was successful, the watermelon turned out red and was shared amongst the group. If the sacrifice was rejected, the watermelon would turn out white and would have to be thrown away immediately. Surprisingly enough, every sacrifice has been a success.

Video Clip: Big Al leads a Watermelon Sacrifice

Starting in 1991 through the summer of 2005, Al and his wife Arlene assumed the positions as Directors and oversaw the entire summer operation. Working together, they were a dynamic pair who dedicated their lives to carry on the traditions of the past and bring Tyler Hill into the future.