Once a part of the Camp Gilgal family, always a part of the Camp Gilgal family.
Malachai W., Age 13
Tribe of Zebulun
When the sun breaks the sky and it shines into my eye, it fills me up o so high to know
that I will reach the skies when He calls me up on high
When He calls me up on high, we will draweth from Him nigh, and be the apple of His eye
We will be the apple of His eye and draweth from Him nigh, when He calls me up on high
“Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and Your dominion endures through all generations. The Lord is faithful to all His promises and loving toward all He has made.”
The Gilgal Gazette is published by Camp Gilgal campers for Camp Gilgal campers and their families and friends!
Tribe of Simeon: Aaron C., Elijah S., Gavyn R., Isaiah H., Twitch, Scooter
Tribe of Levi: Beau N., Daniel V., David K., Nathan D., Noah L., Star Fox, Blewish
Tribe of Dan: David H., Gregory V., Keane R., Malkiel A., Michael K., Jazz, Cyclops
Tribe of Reuben: Kayla C., Naomi W., Nena K., Rachel M., Sarah A., Sarah H., Shoshana S., Baby Carrots, Heinz
Tribe of Zebulun: Alyssa C., Maria A., Rebekah C., Sierra K., Simona B., Taliah S., Ruski, Eureka
Tribe of Issachar: Anastasia H., Devora W., Eliana S., Elizabeth D., Kaylie L., Lauren C., Lydia C., Nicole M., Bullseye, Chickpea
Out-of-Cabin Staff: Tauros, Strings, Reptar, Twister
By Evan S., Age 13
Tribe of Zebulun
Campfires are real fun!
Eat s’mores really tasty Ya!
Camp songs are super!
By Isaac Y., Age 12
Tribe of Zebulun
Camp Gilgal yeah!
We get to learn about God!
The fun camp for Jews!
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
The “Gilgal Gazette” is published by Camp Gilgal campers for Camp Gilgal campers and their families and friends!
Rachel A., Brooke A., Nolan B., Pomai B., Jacob B., Mitch B., Max D., Daniel E., Andrew F., Kaleb F., Robert G., Brighton G., Angela G., Elizabeth G., Nathan H., Moriah J., Ben L., Matt L., Hadassa M., Noah P., Tamar P., Dotti P., Austin R., Joel R., Psalm R., Katie S., Zachary S., Maggie S., Ellis S., Evan S., Kezziah W., Malachai W., Tirzah W., Grace W., Zachary W., Laura W., Olivia W., Benjamin W., Hannah Y.
Staff:Hoops, Poppy, Waffles, Snapple, Simba, Blewish, Nacho, Talon
Poppins, Swedey, Streetlight, Music Man, Moose
Lydia C., Age 12 and Lauren C., Age 12
Tribe of Issachar
Heinz is a first year tribe leader who loves working with campers. Her name is Heinz because she loves ketchup so much. This is her ninth year at Camp Gilgal total. While at camp, she loves FOB the most overall. Her favorite activity is mill games like Captain, Sailor, Gunner. Heinz also enjoys campfire and her favorite parts are the cool songs that we sing. Heinz loves being a tribe leader and she’s really fun to be around.
Lydia C., Age 12
Tribe of Issachar
Tauros has been at Camp Gilgal for six years. He got his name based on his favorite Pokemon. Tauros was most looking forward to the field trip this year. His favorite thing about camp is being around the campers. The reason the tribe leaders keep their names a secret is an excellent question. Tauros thinks he likes his new job more than the one he had last year. Tauros likes both directing and also playing mill games. His favorite all-camp activity is Counselor Hunt. Tauros’ favorite candy is milk chocolate. Also, his favorite color is pink (the best color in the world).
Ellis S.
Age 15
I interviewed Blewish who is a first time tribe leader on the West Coast. He used to live in San Clemente, California, which is where I live now. He currently lives in Brooklyn, New York, and is a waiter.
He used to be in the reserve for the Marine Corps but got discharged in 2009, which means he no longer needed to serve in the military. His favorite part of camp is hanging out with campers. He says, “I love to work with the campers. It has been the highlight of my summer!” At camp he enjoys many activities, but his favorite activity is hiking. He is a really good tribe leader and has a really fun spirit. He says the thing he looks forward to the most at camp is watching the campers grow in their relationships with Messiah Jesus. During camp, Blewish enjoys playing basketball and getting milkshakes from the amazing snack shack. This hasn’t been Blewish’s first week at camp because on the East Coast he did two weeks of junior camp, then one week of their teen camp. He then flew over to the West Coast to serve here at teen camp. Blewish is very kind to his campers and really has been making teen camp fun. I hope Blewish can come to more West camps in the future. After camp, Blewish is definitely one of the people that I will remember.
Aaron C., Age 10
Tribe of Simeon
Blewish’s favorite part of camp is spending time with the campers. His favorite color is red. If he had $1,000,000, he would donate $100,000 and start a sports company. His dream vacation would be going back home. His favorite animal is a monkey. If he had an endless supply of anything it would be Vitamin Water. The reason he laughs all the time is because he likes being happy.
Daniel E.
Age 13
Talon is an awesome person who loves archery. He is between 5’8” and 5’9”. He came up with his camp name because he is a biologist specializing in ornithology or working with birds of prey. His real name is, “That’s an excellent question.” His favorite thing to do is play the bass. He has a brother and a sister. He got involved with Jews for Jesus because his parents were involved. He doesn’t have a girlfriend. He is thinking of becoming a naturalist next year but is still not exactly sure about what he wants to do. He loves birds and is a bird nerd!
Taliah S., Age 10, and Rebekah C., Age 10
Tribe of Zebulun
From asking these questions, we have found out more interesting things about our favorite person at camp:
Twister! One of the more important questions is, how does it feel to be the leader of camp? And she said: I feel that being the director is a fun job, a lot of work but a big reward. We think that is very thoughtful and true. Some of the questions that we asked were more of the silly type such as why are you called “Twister” and what is your favorite dance move? The answers for those are, “I am called Twister because of the twistiness of my hair and because of the chaos I can create.” Her favorite dance move is the “Funky Chicken.” Our favorite question, well, especially Taliah’s, is: do you like Canada or America better? And the answer was both Canada and New York City! From these questions we learned many new things about wonderful Twister and I hope you did, too.
Laura W.
Age 14
Snapple heard about Camp Gilgal when she was six years old. Her dad works with Jews for Jesus, and when her brother went to camp, she heard about all the fun that he had and wanted to go too! When Snapple turned eight, she started going to camp and has stayed in the Camp Gilgal family for the past twelve years!
Bass Lake is Snapple’s favorite part of teen camp. She likes going jet skiing and getting an espresso shake at Miller’s Landing. Her favorite part of being a tribe leader at teen camp is connecting with the campers, learning about what’s going on in their lives, and seeing them grow in their relationships with Y’shua.
Brooke A.
Age 14
In a faraway place called Uzbekistan, on January 5th, year unknown, baby Hoops was born. When Hoops was eight years old, she moved to America with her parents and little sister. Hoops describes her family as “normal” and her best
childhood memories were climbing mountains with her dad. Hoops came to junior camp when she was ten years old and still remembers the feeling of bewilderment. The first time the staff came running down banging on her car. That
was the start of many camp adventures for Hoops. She returned to camp every year after that. At camp, Hoops had tons of fun, loved being included, and experienced something like nothing else. Even today, Hoops recalls great
memories spent with her staff like Rickshaw.
As a teenager, Hoops loved sports, playing soccer, basketball, track and softball. In high school, Hoops loved academic challenges and enjoyed learning Biology. Hoops was also involved in leadership at her high school. At thirteen, Hoops started coming to teen camp. Her favorite part of teen camp was the giant swing, playing water polo, and loved how her staff connected with her. Another fun part of teen camp was playing Capture the Degel with Sport.
Hoops loved camp so much, she decided to become a tribe leader. Even though she wasn’t sure if she would do a good job, she felt God was calling her to experience it. As everyone who has been at camp knows, she is an amazing and caring tribe leader who is full of love.
Hoops is now in college studying pre-med, and is hoping for an occupation in medicine. But she says that though she is not sure the plan God has for her she knows that He will use the gifts and talents she has to serve Him.
Ana H., Age 12
Tribe of Issachar
Lately, I’ve interviewed Eureka. Some of the answers to the questions I asked her were very surprising. For example, she described her personality as insane! If Eureka could be an animal, she chose a koala because they sleep 
most of the
day. Eureka’s favorite food is macaroni and cheese, which is a camp favorite! The brand of shoe she buys the most from is Converse, and I like them, too! She likes the “Baby Whale” campfire song the most. In 2004, Eureka came to camp for the first time as a junior camper. Eureka’s top Bible book is Hosea, and her catch phrase is “awesomeness!” which best described that book! Eureka’s not a big soda fan, but if she had to choose between Coke and Pepsi, Coke would be her choice. Eureka’s favorite Camp Gilgal t-shirt is a tie between the 2006 and 2010 shirt. I’m glad I got to interview Eureka because now I know more about her!
Noah P.
Age 14
Poppy has been a tribe leader at Camp Gilgal Teen Camp f
or many years now. Poppy has never been a camper, but has been coming to camp as staff for five years. Poppy became a tribe leader because she likes working at camps and Moose needed help. Poppy loves being crazy with the campers and staff. She loves playing Wells Fargo because she likes to chase campers down like a crazy cowboy. Poppy loves jet skiing on Bass Lake because you can go really fast! I really enjoy Poppy as a tribe leader at teen camp.
Nathanael D., Age 10
Tribe of Levi
Before camp began, Reptar worked at a grocery store named Food King. She also worked at Starbucks. Her favorite thing to do at Camp Gilgal is going to the swimming pool and the game room. Her favorite foods are Mexican dishes. Her favorite football team is the New York Giants. Reptar’s favorite song is “Beautiful Bride.” It’s a Christian song by a Christian band named Flyleaf and it’s about believers coming together and helping each other. She likes to sing and play guitar as a hobby. Reptar has graduated from high school. Everybody loves Reptar!!!
Jacob B.
Age 13
Simba came into this world and was created by a wonderful family. He lived in a believing home and was like by many people. Two years later, Simba’s life changed, when his little sister, Madeline, was born. Simba fell into a rage of jealousy, he told me during our interview, that he tortured his sister, when they were young, but as they grew up, Simba came to love her very much!
Simba started camp at age 14. His first camp counselors were Goonie and Sonic. He immediately fell in love with Gilgal. He recalls his most fun year to be at adventure camp 2010, when they went house boating. He also became a tribe leader at junior camp and became good friends with Jacob B….. his mentor…..
But all in all he was a good friend and tribe leader. During this week, he also met up with an old friend and played a concert for all of Gilgal. Now, if this does not prove he’s a good guy, then I don’t know what does! The End.
Isaiah H., Age 9
Tribe of Simeon
Twitch first went to Camp Gilgal when he was ten in 2003. His best year at camp was when he had Spike as a tribe leader. Since 2003, Twitch has known 45 staff members. If Twitch had one million dollars, he would donate to Camp Gilgal and buy a Ferrari F50 GT. Twitch’s favorite field trip was the baseball game. Twitch is going into the Navy to protect the country and children. Twitch’s favorite Pokemon is Raquaza. Twitch likes to sing at the beautiful campfire. His favorite activity is archery and his favorite field trip this year was to the zoo.
Andrew F.
Age 14
Nacho is a cool and interesting person, and is very nice! Nacho likes to listen to music and he likes listening to Indie Rock. Nacho has done something Camp Gilgal related every year since he was 9 years old! Nacho’s favorite thing to do at Camp Gilgal is being 
a tribe leader. Nacho’s favorite thing about being a tribe leader is to grow more knowledgeable about how to live a life centered around Yeshua. Nachos’ first time at camp he had a really good time, but he was a little bit homesick. His favorite memory about camp is jet skiing at Bass Lake and playing Mission Impossible at junior camp. Nacho’s favorite food is sushi, or gourmet nachos. In the future, Nacho wants to travel to exotic places and discover the world’s greatest nachos. He has only been a tribe leader for two years, and this year has been pretty good. Nachos favorite color is purple because it is a royal color.
My first year so far with Nacho has been really great. Nacho has shown me many ways that I can be more patient, kind, and calm. Nacho did a great job leading devotions. He cleared up many misunderstandings and helped a lot of campers with their problems. Overall, Nacho is a great person, and I was glad to have him as my tribe leader. I hope he comes back next year so that I can see him again!
Kayla C., Age 8 and Sarah A., Age 9
Tribe of Reuben
Baby Carrots likes playing soccer and a bunch of other sports. Her favorite things to wear are shirts with baby carrots on them that glow in the dark and American Eagle shorts. Her favorite animals are fainting goats and cats. She lives in Virginia, and her favorite food is baby carrots. Her two super powers would be to be able to fly and save people with the touch of her hand. Her favorite color is purple and her least favorite colors are shades of brown and green. She likes baby carrots because baby carrots make her happy and they taste awesome.
Malachai W.
Age 13
Moose is basically awesome! He is the leader of Camp Gilgal and 
one of the coolest staff at camp, so I thought I would let you know a little bit more about him. Moose said that he was doing very well today, and that if he was any better, he would be twins! He says his favorite part of teen camp is the campers but his favorite part this year was the initiatives and seeing campers work together. In 1990, Moishe Rosen asked him to start a camp. So Moose started camp 20 years ago and has been coming ever since. He couldn’t pick a favorite year, because he says they are all his favorite. He wears his yellow hardhat because it is standard equipment. Moose came to know Jesus when he was 18 and it was the best thing that ever happened to him! I am grateful that I got to interview Moose; I hope this article helps campers to get to know him better. I am so proud to have someone like Moose on leadership here at Camp Gilgal.
David K., Age 10
Tribe of Levi
Cyclops is the tribe leader for the Tribe of Dan. His tribe has five people. His favorite color is blue. Cyclops has two sisters that are Stickshift and Weeboc. His favorite genre of music is rock. He was born and raised in the center of New Jersey. Cyclops’ favorite activity is rock wall. His birthday is December 11. In all of his years as a camper, he was with Twitch three times. His favorite food is campers (I know he is lying). His favorite all camp activity is MI. His favorite candy is any type of chocolate.
Ben L.
Age 15
This year I was in the cabin of Foxglove. It was filled with the greatest group of guys. Ellis was a super good impersonator and comedian. He was very nice and was also one of our memory verse judges. Kaleb is a really good football player. He is nice and fun to hang out with. Joel is 
pretty quiet until he gets competitive. He laughed a lot and is also very nice. Brighton is very nice and cool. He liked to work on his hair in the morning. Noah liked to work out and play the box drum. He is very nice. Nathan is a very good diver and is really nice. Mitch is a very good, loyal friend and is very nice. Zachary is very smart and a very good friend. Nolan brought a huge remote control car that needed to have its battery charged. Ben W. is great and we had a lot of fun joking around since we have the same name.
Then we had two tribe leaders. Blewish is very funny and super nice. He is from New York. Simba is nice and a really good guitar player. We had great devotionals this year and enjoyed awesome cabin time. I loved being a part of our cabin.
Keane R., Age 11
Tribe of Dan
Jazz has been coming to Camp Gilgal since adventure camp in 2010. His favorite color is maroon. If he had a superpower it would be the ability to fly. His favorite part of camp is hanging out with the tribe of Dan. He chose Jazz as his camp name because he likes to change up the rules a little and Jazz likes jazz music. His
favorite types of music are Indie, Blues, Rock, and old school Hip-Hop. His favorite musical instrument is the guitar.
Jazz’s favorite part of the day is FOB. His favorite Pokemon are Charizard and Mew. His favorite place to visit is Colorado. His favorite tribe leader is Cyclops. His favorite cartoon character is Hobbes. That’s who Jazz is!
Pomai B.
Age 15
Gilgal is about family. That’s the reason why I come. My Gilgal family supports me and always makes me feel welcome. Gilgal is more than just having fun, it’s all about building our faith in God, and having friends you can love and trust. There’s nothing that could break this family apart because we are as close as birds in a flock. My friends here are here for me, the tribe leaders especially. When you feel down and done, they cheer you up and make you feel right at home. You’ll never feel homesick because it’s so fun here. You’ll be sad when you have to go, but you shouldn’t be sad because you can keep in touch! Get a Facebook because it’s easier than calling. But there’s always next year to be with your buddies. So always remember you have a family here, and you can be yourself to get friends here.
Maggie S.
Age 15
The humble little cabin of Lupine is where we girls have been staying. We now call ourselves the Blue Bonnets after Hannah informed us of the alternate name for Lupine flowers. Our cabin leaders are Hoops and Poppy and our cabin members are Angela, Tamar, Moriah, Maggie, Grace, Hannah, Tirzah, Pomai, and Hadassa.
The Blue Bonnets are some crazy friends. Tamar and Moriah kept us up all night after Yosemite, keeping us laughing hysterically with jokes and funny quotes. Tirzah and her obsession with Doctor Who, the British, and everything Darcy brightens the mood in the cabin.
Many members of the Lupine cabin have a love of poetry and reading. Some even wrote poems for the Gazette. We are always chatting about our favorite poets, authors, and books. Tirzah always brings up her favorite poets and tells us about them.
Hoops showed us how to make friendship bracelets with hemp string. It was a really confusing process of tying knots. The colors of string we could choose from included a lavender, a rosy pink, a light green and a golden yellow. Hadassa, Tirzah and Hannah’s all turned out amazing.
We had quite a bit of trouble with the daily cabin inspections. It honestly felt that the more we tried the more infractions we received. We swept and scoured the entire cabin yet Moose always managed to find at least one thing wrong with our cabin. There was the same feather and silver wrapper two days in a row because we could not find it no matter how hard we tried! What surprised us all is when Tamar started cleaning. She even made Moriah’s bed for her. We were still able to maintain an average of 85 cabin points.
The worst part of our cabin was the amount of spiders that found their way into our cabin. We found a giant one within the first ten minutes of settling into our cabin. We found so many more, small and large, throughout the rest of the trip. Life in the Lupine cabin has been quite interesting. It’s too bad we can’t stay here for the rest of the summer.
The tribe of Simeon has a tribe leader and an assistant tribe leader (ATL) and four campers. The tribe leader’s name is Twitch and the ATL’s name is Scooter. If you are in Twitch’s tribe, BEWARE! He is crazy! Well, we are, too, of course. Well, some of us. The campers’ names are Aaron, Isaiah, Gavyn, and Elijah. First up is Aaron. His favorite color is navy blue. His favorite activity is artsy fun. Gavyn is crazy for all kinds of ice cream. Gavyn’s favorite activity is artsy fun. Isaiah is crazy for gummy bears and his favorite color is green. His favorite activity is artsy fun. Elijah is crazy for his Nintendo DS. His favorite color is blue. His favorite activity is rockwall.
Hadassah M.
Age 15
This year, I have awesome Cabin members. Everyone has been so nice and 
fun that I decided to write about them.
Tirzah and Hannah are our Cabin fairies, and they spend most of free time making lovely flower crowns. They are also excellent writers. Something I really appreciate about them both is that they are always encouraging everyone in our cabin and praying for us. It also has been very fun to hang out and play with them.
We also have Grace and Maggie, both of whom are first time teen campers. It’s been great to get to know them. Both of them have really sweet personalities, and have been really helpful, especially with cleaning our cabin. Maggie is an amazing artist, and Grace is great at Ninja! It’s been fun to be in their cabin.
Tamar and Moriah are really crazy….especially Tamar. They are also very kind and fun to hang out with. Moriah is a great gymnast, and Tamar is always making us laugh. I really enjoy being around them.
Pomai and Angela are amazing. Angela is a good basketball player and Pomai is probably the most perseverant person I know. They have been great examples to me.
Poppy and Hoops are really awesome tribe leaders! They are encouraging and very fun at the same time. I enjoyed doing initiatives because it helped me draw closer to my cabin family!
We are the sebaba tribe of Zebulun, the middle cabin. Our members are Sierra, an 11 year old who likes to hang out with the cabin, Simona, a nine year old who loves FOB, Mariya, a 10 year old who likes craft and rockwall, Alyssa, a 10 year old who likes all of the camp activities, Taliah, a 10 year old whose favorite part of camp is the theme meals, and Rebekah, a just-turned 10 year old who loves having people to play 
with, especially in playground games. Our tribe leader and ATL are Eureka, whose favorite part of camp is the campers, and Ruski, who also loves campers. We as a tribe LOVE having FOB! We love being able to play band games together and a new game that Mariya taught us: Momma and the knot. In the mornings, after we’ve gotten dressed, our cabin looks like a tornado went through, but we always manage to clean it up for cabin inspection. This year, our cabin devos are about the fruit of the Spirit, and our tribe times often include showers, Momma and the knot, learning verses, and Mexican candy. We’re the tribe of Zebulun and we’re awesome!
The tribe of Dan lives in a cabin that could also be called a pig sty. It is a very confusing and colorful place (especially during cabin cleanup). We have clothes hanging off of the beds, and in between cabinets and walls. Keane’s side of the
room is usually filled with toy Pokemon and colorful towels. Greg’s side is usually neater than the other (probably because he sleeps half the time so he can’t make a mess). David doesn’t really have a side, but you can find his clothes in between beds, his pillows on the floor, and himself on other people’s beds. He has a toy alligator whose name is 
Yoshi, which is also all over the place. Misha’s side is neat and organized, but has been taken over by toy spiders and snakes. He has three bunks just for his stuff; if not then he would have his clothes and stuff everywhere. Jazz and Cyclops’ sides are usually dirty but they clean it up fast. They’re not bossy and they’re fun.
Gregory V., Age 12
Tribe of Dan
My tribe is the tribe of Dan. The campers in my tribe are Misha, Keane, David, and Malkiel, and they’re all nice campers. We made our flag a snake for the tribe of Dan because that’s what its symbol is. And our staff are Cyclops and Jazz. We try our best to get more points than the other tribes do.
Evan S.
Age 13
Boats are a fun thing to do and are only usable during free time. When I was using the boats, Snapple, Ellis and myself were in a paddle boat together in the pond, and we were playing tag with the boats against Kaleb, Robert, Hoops and Jacob, who were also in a paddle boat.
As we were playing tag, Kaleb’s boat was “it” and we were paddling as fast as we could, but they were too fast for me and my team so they caught up to us, and we were “it.” So we tried to get them and it got intense with the pedaling on our boat and theirs.
Then we caught back up to them and they were “it” but we had to leave the boats because free time was over. Overall, we had a great time.
If I was going to recommend a fun and enjoyable free time, I would tell new campers to go to the boats with eight friends and play tag in the paddle boats, because it is a very enjoyable activity.
We are the tribe of Reuben! Our tribe leaders are Baby Carrots and Heinz.The campers that are in the tribe of Reuben are Kayla, Rachel, Nena, Shoshi, Sarah, and Naomi. One of our favorite things to do is go to the playground. We are the youngest and best tribe! We have six campers and five of them are new, and we love camp!
Olivia W.
Age 14
Ever need a little time to walk around, buy some candy and hang with friends?
Free time is the best place to do it. After lunch you have the pool to yourself until three and you can go to the coffee shop, which has delicious milkshakes, frappuccinos, and even pretzels, and the general store which sells everything from candy to toothpaste. It’s small but has a lot to offer. Another activity is spending time at the lake. You can enjoy the scenery or choose to go kayaking or paddle boating. Both are extremely fun and safe. Free time is a chance to wind down, hang with friends or just enjoy God’s wonderful views. It’s a great time to connect with God, make new friends and enjoy some complimentary snacks. Free time is my favorite time of the day.
All of the campers in the tribe of Levi are the same age. We all have nicknames for each other. All of the members of our tribe are good at memorizing verses from the Bible. We are also all good at finding sniper positions. The members of our tribe are Noah L., Beau N., Nathanael D., Daniel V., and David K. Our ATL is Star Fox, and our tribe leader is Blewish. Noah’ nickname is Uni, Beau is called Flash, Nathanael is Grenade, Daniel is Chinchilla, and David is AK. We love tribe time and spending time together.
Joel R.
Age 14
Each cabin participated in Team Initiatives. Two of the initiatives were the spider web and the knot. In the spider web challenge, each cabin had to get their entire group through the ropes that were tied together (a.k.a the spider web), without touching the ropes too much. If the ropes were touched too much, it would ring a bell which would wake 
up the (imaginary) venomous spider! There were some big holes that each group could only use once, and every other hole twice. Some groups were extremely successful and others struggled. The main factor through this challenge was trust. If there was no trust, your group would not succeed.
The other team initiative was the knot. Everybody held onto a rope with their right and left hands to form a circle. Everybody tangled themselves in a human knot. We weren’t allowed to speak to each other but we were still pretty successful. Then, still connected, we had to turn around so that our backs were facing the circle. Again, we were successful. Then we stood on a log in a random order. We then had to rearrange ourselves from shortest to tallest while all staying on the log. It took us several tries, but we were eventually successful. The team initiatives really showed our cabin where we were strong and where we were vulnerable.
For starters, we’re the tribe of Issachar. We’re made up of Lydia, Elizabeth, Lauren, Kaylie, Eliana, Devora, Nicole, Ana, Bullseye and Chickpea. Though most think our friendship is held together by Lauren’s duct tape, it’s really our love, confidence, and passion for God. We win, we lose, but we have fun all the same. As a tribe, as a whole camp, and individually, we are each unique, and known for shouting “challah!” Chickpea is our tribe leader, Lauren is an A+ dancer, Kaylie is athletic, Devora is caring, Eliana is great with advice, 
Lydia is extremely funny, Ana is down-to-earth, Elizabeth is awesome, Bullseye can shoot bullseyes one after another, and Nicole is funny and loves her sleep and mini-wheats.
Lydia C., Age 12
Tribe of Issachar
There are many things to do in tribe time with the tribe of Issachar, like playing games outside like soccer, football and frisbee. Another thing you can do is make bracelets. The tribe of Issachar makes duct tape bracelets. You can also make string bracelets. A girl in my tribe has 13 different colors of duct tape. She has zebra striped tape, and just plain colors. We also paint our nails sometimes during tribe time. It is really fun. You should totally try these activities in tribe time someday.
Kezziah W.
Age 14
This year, Blewish and Hoops shared their testimonies at one our campfires. I think it is awesome how our tribe leaders are willing to share their past and experiences with us, and how much encouragement they give us for our future. The other thing I love doing at campfire is worship. During worship I feel like God is right there supporting and loving even if there are problems at home. I love the songs that we sing; Psalm 23 is one of my favorites. This year we split into cabin prayer groups. It’s awesome to be able to support each other in prayer. This year I stepped out of my comfort zone and opened up to my cabin. Last year it was really hard for me to speak my mind and open up. This year it was awesome to be able to speak and have conversations with people about things I
am going through.
This is why I love campfires. I love the feeling that I am not alone, unloved, or unwanted. I have a big family I belong to who will accept me.
Kaleb F.
Age 14
Game one of the amazing game Capture the Degel started off with a bang. The male campers and ladies staff ran up past the lake and found the perfect spot for the degel and jail circles. The male campers made the first move and got the degel in thirty minutes. I personally played defense. We later found out that the opposing team’s strategy was having no defense.
Game two was way longer than the first game. The defense on both teams was very strong. I caught Moose twice. No one was making a good move on offense and it was getting down to the nitty gritty. Male campers were looking for Simba and Blewish. Then all of a sudden there was jailbreak after jailbreak. The game was getting close, then Moose got into the degel circle! He was in there completely surrounded until the game was called a stalemate at 10:30 pm.
At the end, the male campers won the first one and there was a stalemate in the second game. It was the best Capture the Degel ever.
Elijah S., Age 9
Tribe of Simeon
Newcomb is fun but I usually get out. When I am captain, my team is Misha, Lydia, Aaron, Twitch, Sara, and Elizabeth. My team wins about 60% of the time. My favorite position is back or middle and my favorite part of the game is getting my opponents out. I’m the best at serving and I’m sort of good at catching. Also, I’m sort of good at front because it is easy for me to throw the ball over the net. I have tons of fun playing Newcomb.
Elizabeth G.
Age 15
This year for our hike in Yosemite, we hiked halfway up Vernal Fall. It was a very 
strenuous hike for some. At one point I thought I wouldn’t be able to make it up to a certain part of the hike, but I did! I was able to make it up after a long time, some hard work, and a bunch of stops. I think I was able to make it to our destination because of all the encouragement I received from my fellow campers and staff. Another encouraging part of the hike was the response people had to our camp shirts. I heard some people say that they didn’t know Jews for Jesus was still around. Others were reading the verse that is printed on the back of our shirts (Joshua 1:9), and said it was encouraging to them. These were some aspects of our trip to Yosemite.
Gavyn R., Age 8
Tribe of Simeon
We went to the zoo on the field trip.
There were bunnies. They are fast and cute.
Bunnies are really fuzzy. Their ears were long and they look very cute.
In the bunny pen, there were seven babies and one mom.
There was hay on the bottom of the pen.
Robert G.
Age 13
The rock wall was very fun. For some people it was easy, for others it was hard. I did the two hardest courses. There were people that were belaying you on the ropes to make sure you were safe. You had to strap a very tight harness to your legs. Matt did two of the courses with a blindfold on so that he could not see. Streetlight was the person that was belaying me and when she was letting me down she stopped me inches from the ground, and laughed! She was being really funny. The rock wall was huge! There were six different courses. There was a practice course on the side so people could test out their strength. Most people started at course one and tried to complete more difficult ones after. The other staff that belayed us said that the sixth course was the hardest, I decided to try that course and I completed it! The rocks on the sixth course were very far apart and had no grips. I really enjoyed the rock wall and hope that they will have it again next year.
Shoshi S., Age 7 
Tribe of Reuben
To do rockwall, you have to wear closed-toed shoes. If you don’t then you can’t climb. One time I forgot closed-toed shoes, but thankfully a nice girl named Rebekah gave me her shoes and they were very good shoes and I got to the very top. But I was very excited because I finally reached the top of the wall! The walk to the rockwall was not far from the cabins and I loved it. On the last day I was sad because I would have to wait a whole year to climb the rockwall all over again. Next year when I come back, I’ll climb to the top even faster!
Angela G.
Age 15
This year at teen camp we got to go on a zip line! It was pretty relaxed compared to most. 
It wasn’t too high off the ground so it was not too scary. I enjoyed it because it was a nice, chill ride and sort of relaxing. The scenery was very fresh and had lots of pine trees. The wind blows in your hair as you go down a small slope. The slope goes through a meadow filled with pretty lavender-colored flowers and other greenery. The staff that helped us was very nice and encouraging. They never let you give up. I think everyone liked it because of how relaxing it was. Next year I hope that some of the other campers will be able to enjoy the beauty and relaxation of the zip line. I know that they will enjoy it as much as I did!
Shoshi S., Age 7
Tribe of Reuben
One day we went horseback riding at camp. The horses were across the street from camp and in their ring. I was riding Dydy. He was a great horse, but sometimes he was disobedient. He kept tricking me by making me think that he wanted water when he didn’t. The lady that owned the horse said that I should pull on the bit, which is in the horse’s mouth, when he was being disobedient. When I pulled it, he wouldn’t budge. So the owner had to come and help me. For most of the time I had to stay in the ring, but I didn’t mind because I got to ride Dydy and I love horses.
Grace W.
Age 15
As a welcome to Camp Gilgal, the whole camp went on a small hike the first night. 
I thought it was a really great opening for the week. Because it was my first time at camp, I especially enjoyed meeting new people during the hike. Everyone formed a line to walk out to the appointed place. The path was dusty and at some points we had to walk single file because the trail became so narrow. Most people grouped up and used flashlights to light the way.
After about fifteen minutes we all reached a dark meadow opening surrounded by manzanita trees and other foliage. The campers and most of the tribe leaders lay down on the grass beside each other. Each flashlight was turned off in order to get a better view of the sky. The stars were amazingly clear and easy to see, with no artificial light interfering. At first, many of the campers were loud but after a bit, everyone quieted down and listened to what the leaders were saying. Songs were sung and prayers were said. Streetlight read through the first three chapters of Mark. It was so nice and quiet and it was perfect listening time. We spent a few minutes in silence staring up at the stars and appreciating God’s creation. I especially enjoyed this trip because I was able to study nature in a whole new way with a group of fellow believers. It was an excellent way to begin camp since it gave an opportunity to make new friends while showing that camp had a special emphasis on the Bible.
Naomi W., Age 8
Tribe of Reuben 
Skit in a Bag is when you and your tribe get a bag with random objects in it. You have to make a skit out of it. My objects were one big water gun, one little water gun, a Febreeze bottle, a lantern, a hula hoop, a cowboy hat, a cone, and a bucket. We thought about a lot of skits, but ours ended up being a dance skit because our tribe leaders thought we danced really well. They wanted me to dance but I said no because I would have to dance in front of everyone and I don’t like dancing in front of people. I decided I would be a judge so my character had a water gun and when someone would pretend to be bad at dancing I would spray them. We called the skit “Reuben’s Got Talent.”
Matthew L.
Age 13
At Teen Camp 2011 we did something we had never done before. We had team building initiatives that were very fun. I am writing about two of the four courses that were my favorite. The first course was pretty easy but it had its challenges. The objective was to get all ten campers and both leaders onto a small platform surrounded by dirt which we imagined to be lava. 
The difficult part was that we had three lives among all of us. If you touch the dirt surrounding the platform, that takes off one life. We thought that it would be really easy, and Robert jumped for the rope and swung onto the platform, then he threw the rope back so we could all get over. One of our cabin mates started having trouble getting over, and before we knew it we had to start over again. We hadn’t been listening to one another or each other’s ideas on how to complete the task assigned to us. Once we all brainstormed on how to help our fellow cabin mate, we were able to finish it. Our second task was a lot more difficult. The task was to flip a small tarp over with everyone standing on it. Once again, we started to just randomly try to flip the tarp. We had a lot of trouble with this task because we weren’t communicating with one another, and because it was naturally a difficult task to complete. Then we all stopped for a little while to think about what to do. Then one of the leaders gave us a hint on how to do it. We tried it and surprisingly it worked! One thing that I learned out of these exercise is that we should all be slow to speak and quick to listen.
Nena K., Age 9
Tribe of Reuben
Thursday, June 30th, 2011, Camp Gilgal East went to the zoo. The bus ride there was really fun. When we got off the bus we looked at all the animals. When we went to the bunnies, I picked one up and its feet were very dirty. Bullseye (an ATL) held a bunny who had very clean feet. Bullseye has a bunny named Max at home. Then, we went to see the goats and camels. The camels were on the ground a lot. Later we saw the gorillas and reptiles. They had a crocodile, a snake, a baby crocodile, and a spider! After looking at all the animals, we had turkey sandwiches and juice boxes. My friends and I went to the gift shop and bought lotion. After a fun day at the zoo, we got on the bus and went back to Camp Gilgal.
Tamar P.
Age 15
After lunch on Wednesday, Moose told us we were going to have a Gilgalstock. 
We had absolutely no idea what he was talking about! At first, I thought Moose had said we were going to see Gilgal staff, which made no sense at all. Eventually, we found out what Gilgalstock was. It was a guest band made up of Simba and his friend Haley. Simba played the electric guitar while Haley played the drums. They were amazing! Watching Haley play the drums was so much fun because she was awesome. Simba was also amazing. The kind of music they played was very original and energetic. Although difficult to pinpoint, the genre of music was somewhat reminiscent of jazz. It was a great time for people to relax and enjoy the company of one another as well as music from talented musicians! Gilgalstock was an experience that will hopefully be repeated in the future.
Kayla C., Age 8
Tribe of Reuben
You have water balloons and get put on teams. Then
everybody grabs a balloon and throws it at the other team! It is fun because you get soaked. If I was allowed to do it every day, I would, because it is so much fun. But it takes too long to fill them up, so I probably couldn’t.
Nolan B.
Age 15
Take a ride on the zipline into the ice cold pond. From the adventurous zipline to the pond that is like swimming in ice! Then we went with Ben who was sitting in the water for at least 10 minutes. We then went to explore more of the zipline!
The most fun way to go into the pond was the zipline. You could even ride it over and across the pond. The wait line for the zipline could take one to six minutes, and once you finally hit the water, the experience 
was shocking. Once in the pond, you were so cold that you wanted to get out ASAP, and most people did. The only person who didn’t, was Ben. Ben was crazy! He sat in the water for at least 30 minutes, so here is his story:
The instant he made contact with the water, he knew it was really cold, but instead of getting out, like everybody else, he stayed in. Then he waited and waited until he was so cold he couldn’t feel anything. He decided to get out and go back to the zipline, instead of getting hypothermia.
So all in all, from the zipline to the insane Polar Bear Pond was lots of fun. We watched the riders of the zipline who splashed into pond, then heard Ben’s story!
Sarah A., Age 9
Tribe of Reuben
Swimming! Swimming is so much fun! Anybody can swim in
the pool if you get a bracelet. The bracelet colors are red, yellow, or green. Green means you get to go in all three sections, but if you get a yellow bracelet, then you get to swim in two sections. If you get a red bracelet, then you can only go in the shallow end which is three feet tall.
Brighton G.
Age 14
I’m driving to Bass Lake, and I realize, I’m so excited, I’m about to throw up. We get there and I run to a nice spot in the sun to tan and eat candy. I rush to go sign up to ride the banana and go jet skiing, and before I know it, I’m flying through water on a giant banana. Riding the banana
is the best when you fly off the banana, splash into the water, and get lake specimen in your sinus system! I come back and have a few bites of candy, and almost immediately am hopping on a jet ski with Music Man and Ben W. We are speeding through the water and I am terrified of the oncoming wakes…..before I know it…..I’m flying off and pulling Music Man with me! We get back on and we are doing MAJOR fishtails, while I’m screaming wildly! Eventually, we get off and go back. I decide to get a bucket of ice cream: three different flavors, all in a bucket- 10 dollars! Right after I start eating, I recall my lactose intolerance, but not to worry: I got two flavors of sherbet, which I am informed is dairy free!
That is my trip to Bass Lake!
Noah L., Age 10
Tribe of Levi
Rachel age 9 in tribe of Reuben, made an unexpected entrance to the top of the hard rock wall. Rachel got up the easy and medium wall in a flash, but then came all the pressure of going up the hard wall. The hard wall in the gymnasium is as small as the medium wall through the hard wall has like no rocks to stand on. Uh Oh! That can’t stop Rachel, she just blasts up that wall like a lightning bolt zapping someone! Great job, Rachel!
Nathan H.
Age 14
You’ve seen it on NBC, and now it’s coming to Camp Gilgal! On the Wednesday of Camp 2011, the very first Camp Gilgal Minute to Win It competition occurred in Mountain View Hall. Each of the four cabins competed for an unknown prize. The guys from the Cabin of Foxglove took the lead in the first couple of games, including Face the Cookie (won by Mitch). This game involves placing an Oreo cookie on one’s forehead and using your facial muscles to move the Oreo to your mouth. As the event progressed, the oldest cabin of ladies started to catch up to the men. After a feather blowing game that failed, because the feathers were too heavy, the final game totals were added up. There was a tie for first place between the oldest men and oldest ladies.
Two contestants were called to do a head to head Face the Cookie. After that game resulted in a tie, two more campers were called to swing a slinky that was attached to a headband onto their forehead in a game called Pink Elephant. After a draw, there was then a second round of Face the Cookie; yet another draw. Finally, a game involving bouncing pencils into cups was won by the oldest men! The prize was being first for breakfast the following morning! I hope that Minute to Win It becomes a tradition that future campers will enjoy for years to come!
Daniel V., Age 10
Tribe of Levi
Good afternoon, Ladies and Gentlemen! Camp Gilgal is epic, but even more epic is archery! The tribe leaders for 2011 were Blewish and Bullseye! They will explain what the rules are. You try your best to get a bullseye! In 2009 at Camp Gilgal, my friend Beau got a bullseye! You also get extra points! Archery seems easy but it’s extremely hard! Especially getting the bullseye! Also, the tribe leaders put balloons on the targets and you need to try popping the balloons or you can just shoot. Also, you can shoot gloves (rubber gloves). That would be fun! The point of archery is to have fun and enjoy!
Mitch B.
Age 15
Every year I have been at teen camp, we have gone and spent the day at Bass Lake. After the day is done, we go to a beach a cook hot dog and hamburgers. This year, 
however, was different, and instead of the old beach, we went to a different one. After the feast of hamburgers and watermelon, we were fortunate enough to get delicious brownies for desert! Soon after all of the eating was done, people were reciting verses and writing articles for the Gilgal Gazette. When it was getting dark all of our work stopped and we went to the bottom of the beach. Once we got there the tribe leaders read the book of Mark by flashlight. When we finished the final chapter we talked about how we needed to hear this for ourselves, and not just believe what others have said. Then Simba, my cabin’s tribe leader, went up and played his guitar for us, while we talked and prayed with staff. While singing worship songs and praying I saw a shooting star, and to me, it was a sign for me to recommit my life to God. After a fantastic day, God decided to end it for me by showing Himself to me. This is why I love Camp Gilgal.
Nicole G., Age 12
Tribe of Issachar
The snack shop is a refreshing revival area located in the game room. It’s great after getting tired from swimming in the pool. You can take your money out of the Gilgal Bank and get some sugary sweets to quench your hunger, top off lunch, or boost your energy. They also sell a great line of brand name soft drinks including water, Pepsi, Coke, Mug root beer, Dr. Pepper, Sprite, and many more! The candy selection ranges from Skittles and M&M’s to Rolo’s and Sour Punch Straws. They also sell Hershey bars, Reese’s and a whole bunch more. So stop by, save your money, and stock up on your candy!
Zachary W.
Age 13
On Wednesday, the other camp invited us to a dance party. It was really fun. Everyone just joked around. They had a glowing Frisbee, big conga lines, and it was on a big field with a lot of lights! There was a really big group that had a dance off, and some of the people were very good dancers.
They played a lot of music. They played Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, the YMCA, Beyonce, the Backstreet Boys, and Matisyahu. There were also ice cream sundaes, which was vanilla ice cream and lots of toppings!
The dance off turned into two big groups. One group just did flips, while the other group did some good dance moves. In one group one of the campers, Evan, said he would turn into a butterfly. He curled up into a ball and sprang up and flapped his arms. Some of the big conga lines split into smaller groups. Then they stopped. When we left they turned off the lights and the stars were amazing!
David H., Age 12
Tribe of Dan
Hiking is fun. While we walk we sing songs and look at the beautiful scenery of Albany. At the same time, we get 
exercise. Once, we went hiking by the place where our camp used to be and went into the woods there. Another time, we went near the lake where we used to go boating. We saw a paintball shooting range, and the cabinet where they hold the paintball guns. We sing marching songs, “repeat-after-me” songs, and worship songs while we walk. At the end of the hike, we head back to Camp Gilgal.
Zachary S.
Age 14
We were playing in the swimming pool when Moose came into the pool area and announced that we were going on a hike. So we all changed our clothes and shoes at our cabin and got going. We took a hike up and down a trail, sometimes conversing on the way up with five friends side by side. Sometimes we trekked up a mountain path single file. There were many gorgeous pine trees and flowers along the way, but that was just the beginning. We finally arrived at the humongous sequoia tree. I had read about them in my text books, but seeing one in real life, was quite a different experience. This single tree was as tall as many redwoods, and it took about 40 of us to encircle the tree. It was the first sequoia tree I had ever seen, and this was the case with many other campers. We took a camp photo there and learned how the cones pop open when going through fire in order to allow the seeds to fall out. We all had lots of fun and saw one of the many wonders God revealed to us this teen camp.
Nicole G., Age 12
Tribe of Issachar
This year, new campers got the news! Just because you’re at camp doesn’t mean you can skip brushing your teeth! Every morning after you wake up, you have to get dressed, get your yawns out and get ready for line up. But that’s not all! You have to brush your teeth well or else you’ll fail dental inspection. So what is dental inspection? After each tribe lines up, Twister and the other out-of-cabin-staff come around and check your teeth for plaque! Even your molars, so open wide and say “ahhhhh!” But it’s not every morning. But don’t skip out! It’ll creep up on you, just when you think we won’t have it. Besides, oral hygiene is very important either way. You should always brush your teeth if you don’t want them to fall out. Seriously, if you don’t, your teeth will get yellow.
Even though dental inspection is only at breakfast and not at lunch and dinner, TLs and ATLs still make sure you brush at night. Make sure you bring your toothpaste and make your teeth sparkle or else no breakfast for you!
Elizabeth D., Age 12
Tribe of Issachar
Who wouldn’t want to fly? I know I want to. Rockwall is an activity that can make you feel like you’re flying! But safety comes first so obviously you have to wear a harness and helmet. Even though there are a lot of rules to follow, rockwall is a ton of fun. There are different levels for rockwall: the easy wall, the medium wall and the hard wall. Rockwall is a blast when you slip by accident, and you feel as if you’re flying. It’s disappointing when you have to come down, but it’s really fun. I’m sure you would love rockwall.
Max D.
Age 13
This summer, I decided to go to Jews for Jesus’ Camp Gilgal for the first time! Since I was too old for junior camp, I went straight to teen camp. As I was riding in the van to Oakhurst, which is where the camp is located, I started to wonder what it would be like or how I would fit in. When the van arrived to camp, I was greeted with large shouts, cheers, and banging on the van from fellow campers and staff.
Later that night, we had a campfire. During the campfire one of the tribe leaders, Hoops, gave her testimony. Her testimony really helped me to settle down and know that I was accepted by the camp family no matter who I was. On Monday, we played Capture the Degel. The male campers won the first game! The food is amazing and all homemade by the wonderful staff at Calvin Crest. Fortunately, when we came back late from our trip to Yosemite, they graciously held dinner for us. The cabin staff are wonderful and will try to answer as many of your questions as possible. All of the activities that we do are fun and exciting. During Tabernacle or prayer time, I feel tremendously closer to God. Overall, I have had a great time and will definitely come next year.
Gregory V., Age 12
Tribe of Dan
Tribe time is a time when you can go and do activities with your tribe. You can go play soccer, volleyball or ultimate
frisbee. Sometimes, you go into the woods and compete in different events. You can go to the zipline and do activities
that you need teamwork to complete. For example, there is a wall you have to go over, but your tribe members have to pick you up and help you over as a team. Next there is an activity where you go on a little log and then if you fall, your tribe members catch you. We also play kickball sometimes. My favorite activity at tribe time is hiking though. It’s my favorite because I get to see lots of new things and sometimes we get to see little animals like frogs, chipmunks, and turtles. And it’s also a good experience for us to learn new things about life. It’s also good exercise for us.
Taliah S., Age 10
Tribe of Zebulun
Have you ever gone to a Camp Gilgal sleepout? Well I have, and it’s really fun! Even though the camping out part is fun, the rest of it is the worst. What I mean by that is you have to make your own food and you have to go to the bathroom in the woods, you’re on rock-hard ground and you’re only allowed to go 
back to an indoor bathroom ONCE on the whole sleepout! These things are really hard to do, especially this year, because one camper got sick during the camp out and another came late because of another camper’s sickness. The sleepout itself is really fun because it’s basically like having a sleepover with a grown up and your best friends. This year, the weather was so-so because it was really cold, but when we got back to our tents, it got so warm inside. So I would say it was pretty good. It was the first time I’ve been to camp as a camper that it hasn’trained on the sleepout and it was awesome. But you know what I love about the campout? It’s that you get to choose where you go, well, sort of…the tribe leaders do. This year, our cabin slept out at the basketball court, so after we got ready and put our tents up, we got to play on the playground for a little
while. The only thing that I hate, and you probably will too, is that after lights out you can’t talk because then no one will get to sleep and you know what? I’m fine with that.
Rebekah C., Age 10
Tribe of Zebulun
Lights, camera, action! This is the movie we watched for Movie Night: “Finding Nemo.” Where was movie night? In the Mishkan. We also had snacks in the Hebrew room to nosh on. We took our sleeping bags and pillows to the Mishkan to rest on while the movie was on. And we got to wear our PJs! The movie was about Nemo’s dad, Marlin, and Dory trying to find Nemo, who had been taken by divers. That’s the whole story of Movie Night! And now, its bedtime! Goodnight!
Aaron C., Age 10
Tribe of Simeon
We had a day where we had a grilled lunch, and for dessert we roasted marshmallows. We grilled at a campfire site, Sunset. My favorite part was finding the perfect marshmallow stick. The perfect stick is straight and thin. When our marshmallows were perfect, we made s’mores.
Simona B., Age 9
Tribe of Zebulun
Talent Night is a night to show off your talents! Many people dance, do magic tricks, sing, and much more. There are two hosts and they dress up and they are really funny. Everyone always looks forward to this night because they love to see everyone’s talents. Every year, the ATLs do a skit called, “Is it time yet?” They go back and forth just asking, “Is it time yet?” Finally, at the end, the person with the watch says, “Yes, it’s time!” And they do something really silly at the end. It’s a really good skit. I’m always looking forward to Talent Night! This year, I’m looking forward to doing ballet. I’ve been doing it since I was three and a half. I really like it and I hope I’ll do well!
Beau N., Age 10
Tribe of Levi
I think the sleepout is going to be the most fun sleepout this year. The first year I came here was 2009 and it was really fun. I still remember when I was in the tent and it started to rain and Twitch said, “Watch the rain stop as soon as you put the tarp over the tent.” I think this year is going to be just as fun as in 2009. I hope we make s’mores and hang out. Two years ago it did rain so we had to cancel. This sleepout will be the most fun year if it doesn’t rain, because then we get to spend the whole night out. The first time, we woke up at midnight to go back to the cabin because there was hunder and lightning. This year it was windy but it came out to be the best sleepout ever. We roasted marshmallows and we made hamburgers on an open flame. All the food tasted good and we got to chill out. I was having so much fun that the time flew by.
Devora W., Age 12
Tribe of Issachar
What do you think Mission Impossible is? Well, Mission Impossible is when you’re in your bed about to go to sleep, but then all of a sudden you hear the MI theme song. Then all of the tribe leaders come back into their cabins with their flashlights and scream, “IT’S MI!!!” We only do MI once a year at camp.
This is how you play: you and your tribe are a team. You have to crawl around outside in the dark and look for clues to find out where you have to go next. You want to be the first cabin to be done so that you win, but you have to be very quiet and careful because if you’re not, one of the spotters will spot you and you will have to start all over. If you have to start over, it will take more time for you to try to win. When you’re playing MI you have to wear black or dark colors so that you blend in more at night.
I have a lot of fun during MI and I’m sure you would, too!
Mariya A., Age 10
Tribe of Zebulun
In campfire, we are always singing a few songs and then we also are talking about God. We tell our stories that are happening to each other. In campfire it is so much fun because we always sing happy songs. In campfire, my favorite song is “Hinei Ma Tov” camp fire style. I love that song because it is so much fun. When it is almost time to have campfire, Twister blows the whistle and she tells us how many minutes left and then we have to start putting on the
bug-spray and if it’s cold outside, we have to take our jackets and start going outside. We have to go to the Sunset before we do all of those things. It is so so much fun in campfire.
Sierra K., Age 11
Tribe of Zebulun
This year at camp in Tabernacle, Twister has been giving us lessons about things that are in the book of Genesis. We are learning about different covenants or promises from God. And we are also learning about the patriarchs, Abram (or
Abraham), Isaac, and Jacob. Just today, we learned about the miracle birth of Isaac. For a quick summary, the story is Isaac’s mom, Sarah, was about ninety when she gave birth to Isaac and before he was born, three men came up to them
to tell them that Sarah was going to have a baby. She didn’t believe them, but God told her that she was going to have a baby. But back to the talks. Twister also lets us read verses from the Bible and answer questions. I think that Tabernacle is really fun and it helps me get to know God better!
Eliana S., Age 12
Tribe of Issachar
Campers and staff at Camp Gilgal have very mixed feelings about the time in the schedule known as FOB (Flat On Bunk).
How do our campers feel about FOB: Many campers feel differently about FOB. Kaylie, from the tribe of Issachar, said that she enjoys FOB because it’s a time that she can just chill. On the other hand, Gavyn, from the tribe of
Simeon, said that he hates FOB because he can’t sit still on his bunk and always wants to talk.
What do our cabins think?: You might love or hate FOB, but what do our cabins think? Simona, from the tribe of Zebulun, said that she doesn’t think her cabin likes FOB because they always talk. Keane, from the tribe of Dan, said that his cabin loves FOB because they have parties!
Would you FOB or do another activity?: If you could have a fifth activity instead of FOB, would you? Naomi from the tribe of Reuben would rather have another activity, and so would Noah from the tribe of Levi. On the other hand, Reptar, from the tribe of out-of-cabin-staff said she would have FOB because she loves it!
Happy FOBing!
Lauren C., Age 12
Tribe of Issachar
Friday night was Shabbat. Everyone got dressed up for the evening. The whole camp then walked leisurely to dinner. The meal was very peaceful. Twister said prayers over the candles and grape juice, and then the challah. After dinner, we went to Tabernacle for the evening service. We sang songs, said prayers, and recited the different blessings. In the morning, we slept in, had breakfast, then went to Tabernacle for more prayers. We sang more songs, recited more Hebrew prayers, and then read that morning’s haftarah portion. Shabbat at Camp Gilgal was a lot of fun!
Lauren C., Age 12
Tribe of Issachar
Every night we have devotions. This year, our cabin talked about gossiping, growing up with God, being a mature young woman, and standing up for what you believe in. My favorite topic was gossip. Our ATL, Bullseye, talked to us about gossip. We discussed how gossip is bad, how it hurts others, and how God tells us not to gossip. Most people think that only girls gossip, but boys are just as bad. Bullseye had us read different passages from the Bible where God says gossiping is bad. Our nightly devotions have really helped us grow as girls after God’s own heart.
Simona B., Age 9
Tribe of Zebulun
In Hebrew, we do many things. This year, we are learning the Amidah. The Amidah is a Jewish prayer. At the beginning of the Amidah, we take three steps back and three steps forward. It means we’re leaving the world but then coming back. At the beginning of the Amidah, the words “Baruch Atah Adonai” start and we bow. In Hebrew, we also learn the Aleph Beit, reading and much more. Strings is the teacher. She teaches me a lot and I really like her. I like her because she teaches us the meaning of words so we don’t just say Hebrew words without knowing the meaning of them. I like learning Hebrew to see how different the languages can be. I also like it because it was the language Jewish people spoke. Hebrew is AWESOME.
Malkiel A., Age 12
Tribe of Dan
I also like “Baby Whale.” I like that there are little motions and big motions too. It talks about the story of Jonah. Another song is called “I’m Gonna Sing Sing Sing.” Staff people lead three groups in a round, then sing different parts of the song at the same time. That’s what we do during campfire songs!
Misha K., Age 12
Tribe of Dan
FOB is probably the most fun activity in camp. 
The word FOB literally means Flat On Bunk, but to us campers it means Fun On Bunk. In the years before, it used to be a time of rest from all the fun activities in camp, but lately it became a
time to play card games and talk quietly while the tribe leaders sleep. Later on, we started taking advantage of the tribe leaders sleeping and started throwing little “parties.” Before the tribe leaders went to sleep during FOB one day, they would say, “you may talk a little bit while we sleep,” but to us, “talk a little” meant start fighting and screaming and singing Lion King songs. The tribe leaders probably didn’t know this until I wrote this very shocking article. That’s it for now – I hope you enjoyed my FOB experience!
Nicole G., Age 12
Tribe of Issachar
For campers and staff, this year there are some “out of town” campers joining us from Michigan. We have Sierra K. and Nena K. and Ana H. They took an 11-hour-long train ride to join us for camp. If there’s any reason to pack your bags and leave home for two weeks, I can’t think of a better one than camp. At first, I was unsure about this new adventure, but after having spent two weeks with these girls, it proved to be a change for the better. I’m glad they could be with us!
This is Nicole G., checking out. Until next time, Shalom!
Rachel M., Age 9
Tribe of Reuben
Tabernacle is a great time to praise God. That is becaus
e we sing, read the Bible, and learn cool facts. For example BIBLE stands for “Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth.” Every day we got closer to God. Getting to know God will not only give you eternal life but also give you peace in your heart. At Tabernacle, Twister reads from the book of Genesis. For example, we read about Adam and Eve and the tower of Babel, and she read us the story of Abraham, too. Out of all of them I liked Adam and Eve the best. As you can see, Tabernacle is a great time to praise the Lord.
Alyssa C., Age 10
Tribe of Zebulun
Are you tired of being bored? Well, then try the activity “Just Fun!” Just Fun is located in the field! You can play board games and whatever you want. For example, you ask whoever is directing the activity. For example, if you ask, “Can you get out the paper and pencils?” you’ll get them right away. Do whatever you want! It’s Just Fun! Some of the games are Apples to 
Apples, card games, Nuke ‘Em football, Frisbee, and do whatever you want! The girls who are in it are Rebekah, Ana, Sierra, Lauren, Shoshi, and Kayla. Rebekah and Sierra both like Just Fun because they think that you can do whatever you want. And it’s not the same thing every day. They both like Just Fun! Ana’s favorite thing to do in Just Fun is play Nuke ‘Em! Lauren likes to hang out, Shoshi says she likes to play games and Kayla likes to play Frisbee and run around a lot! Everyone likes it!
Malkiel A., Age 12
Tribe of Dan
Have you ever been to lunch at Camp Gilgal East? It’s really fun. First we quiet down. Then Twister calls a quiet group to go get food after we say the blessings. The food is really good. After everybody finishes eating, we say the Birkat Hamazon together. Then we get our cabin inspection scores and go to swim time. That’s what we do during lunch.
Ana H., Age 12
Tribe of Issachar
Camp Gilgal is fun! Laying on our bunks
“Challah”, Issachar tribe says Just resting and relaxing
“Best part of summer!” FOB is very fun.
The Gilgal Gazette Top of a mountain
A newspaper by campers Campfires at Camp Gilgal
At Camp Gilgal East! We see the sunset.
Strings teaches Hebrew
We learned about animals
And also food, too.
Everyday at morning,
we go to Tabernacle
Twister gives us talks
and the book of Genesis
we’re trying to tackle!
Flip flops and fun!
We laugh and we run,
and learn about Jesus at Gilgal
we love to play,
every single day,
and earn cabin points at Camp Gilgal
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