“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
Inside This Issue:
Junior Camp East
Teen Camp East
Junior Camp West
Category: Gilgal Gazette 2011
He is Faithful to All Generations
(Psalm 145:13)
“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!
Tribes:
Tribe of Issachar: Kayla H., Sophia M., Zoe N., Shannon O., Elizabeth R., Zemeira W., M
agnatron, Acorn
Tribe of Naphtali: Madison H., Monique L., Sarai M., Elizabeth N., Mekerah P., Emmalee S., Hershey, Squirt, Hoops
Tribe of Asher: Mia C., LaTanya H., Abbey M., Dinah N., Haneen R., Waffles, Smalls
Tribe of Manasseh: Destiny A., Lindsay M., Olivia P., Amanda R., Skye R., Judi W., TuTu, Bologna
Tribe of Simeon: Leia B., Louisa G., Julia K., Sarah K., Kezia M., Vika S., Bazooka, Sparkler
Tribe of Benjamin: Nathan B., Sam F., Danny G., Michael K., Isaiah L., Elijah Y., Simba, Java
Tribe of Judah: Eric E., Isaac H., Isaac J., Josh L., Nathan P., Corey W., Professor, Techno
Tribe of Dan: Elias B., Jeremiah H., Elliot K., Reuven R., Jacob S., Jaden W., Nacho, Fe
nder
Tribe of Zebulun: Matt L., Emeth P., Benjamin R., David S., Evan S., Malachai W., Isaac Y., Diesel, Garfield
Out-of-Cabin Staff: Esquire, Ewok, Freckles, Moose, Poppins, Snapple, Streetlight
Guests: Amp, Bandit, Big Tuna, Cookie, Cricket, Cucamonga, Eyegore, KoKo, Rabbster, Sonic, Swedey
Interviews and Family
Louisa G., Age 12
Tribe of Simeon
I interviewed Bazooka. Bazooka is a tribe leader. She is the tribe leader of Simeon. She is my tribe leader. I have also had her my first year of camp. My name is Louisa and I’m also in the tribe of Simeon. Bazooka is awesome!
The first question that I asked Bazooka was, “Why is your name Bazooka?” She answered, “I like corny jokes.” The second question I asked her was, “How many years have you been attending camp?” Her response was, “I have been going to Camp Gilgal since I was eight. I have been a camper for 11 years, and this is my fifth year on staff.” Third question is, “What is your favorite color?” She said, “Red is my favorite color right now, but it changes often.” Fourth is, “Do you like camp?” Answer is “Definitely!” My fifth question was, “Do you love camp?” and she said, “Of course!” The sixth question was, “What is your favorite food?” She said, “My favorite foods are frozen yogurt, fruit, and Nutella.” Seventh question is, “What’s your favorite ice cream flavor?” and she said, “I like Nutella gelato.” I also asked, “Do you like lightning?” and she said, “I don’t know if I like lightning more than Louisa’s reaction to lightning.” I then asked, “What is your favorite theme night?” and she said, “I liked the new theme night which was Once Upon a Time Night.” I finally asked, “What’s your favorite night game?” and Bazooka said, “I love Wells Fargo.”
Kezia M., Age 13
Tribe of Simeon
My name is Kezia and I am in the tribe of Simeon. One of my tribe leaders is Sparkler. She has been going to camp for 10 years. Sparkler chose her name because her birthday is on the Fourth of July. Her favorite ice cream flavor is cookie dough and vanilla; her favorite camp food is omelets. Her favorite part of the Bible is Revelation, and her favorite fruit of the spirit is love. Sparkler is a very nice tribe leader because she is always ready to help. (Often in the evening when I walk into the cabin I see her saving our lives by killing all the bugs.) Her favorite activities are Tabernacle and Wells Fargo. I am very glad I had Sparkler as my tribe leader.
Julia K., Age 12
Tribe of Simeon
My name is Julia. I’m from the tribe of Simeon. I’ve been going to Camp Gilgal for five years. One of t
he tribe leaders I have met during these years is Snapple. She has been a tribe leader five years and part of the Camp Gilgal family for 12 years. She got the name Snapple by one odd day she chipped her tooth. What happened was one day, when she was young, Snapple was drinking Snapple and she chipped her tooth on it! So, since the chipped tooth was caused by a Snapple bottle, she decided to name herself Snapple.
Some random facts about Snapple are that she likes to eat sushi, pasta, and tomatoes. She likes the color green and her favorite camp activity is Wells Fargo, which is also my favorite. For her first year of camp she was in the tribe of Zebulun. Her favorite theme night is Superhero Night, and, of course, she loves Snapple! Some of her favorite flavors are Lemon Tea and Diet Peach Tea. Her favorite tribe name is Issachar, or the sun.
Snapple is an amazing tribe leader. She’s not in-cabin staff anymore but she is great as an out-of-cabin staff member. I know for sure that I will miss her when I come home from camp.
Vika S., Age 12
Tribe of Simeon
Th
is year I did an interview on Hershey. She picked the name Hershey because she loves chocolate. This is Hershey’s ninth year being a part of the Camp Gilgal family. Her favorite year of camp was her second year as a staff member. Hershey’s favorite part of camp is worship time and her favorite worship song is, “How Great is Our God.” She enjoys the enchiladas most during camp. This year she is in the tribe of Naphtali, but Hershey really likes the tribe name Issachar. Hershey’s favorite night game is Wells Fargo because she likes to chase all the campers down the hill. I asked her if she liked FOB and she said that she thought it was boring when she was a camper but nice when she was a tribe leader. When Hershey was a camper her favorite cabin’s name was Fiddletown. She never had a favorite tribe leader because she loved them all. Hershey’s favorite colors are green and blue. She has been a believer since she was 13 years old at teen camp. Hershey has three other siblings that all attend Camp Gilgal. She loves playing carpetball and going swimming during free time. Hershey has always preferred the ladies’ hill over the men’s side. The parade is her favorite part of Columbia. She has also liked going horseback riding because of how beautiful the view is. Hershey’s favorite Ladies Day theme was when we did pirates. Overall Hershey is a great staff member who loves her campers.
Leia B., Age 12
Tribe of Simeon
My name is Leia and this year I’m doing an interview on Professor. 
Professor got his name because he is really smart. He has been coming to camp since he was eight and this is his second year on staff. When he was a camper his first tribe leaders were Lynk and Ace. Professor’s favorite tribe name is Simeon, but there will always be a special place in his heart for Judah. Professor’s favorite time of camp when he was a camper was the water slide, but now he just likes hanging out with his campers and worshiping with them. Professor’s favorite night game is MI. Enough said. His favorite theme dinner is Dance and Sing for Your Mail Night. Professor’s favorite store in Columbia is either the candy shoppe or the ice cream parlor, he can’t really decide. His favorite food is steak and pepper. Also his favorite colors are any cool colors like purple, blue or green. Professor’s favorite pie is apple, the kind he makes at his house with Maverick. So as you can see, Professor is a super cool, fun, smart, and an amazing tribe leader.
Vika S., Age 12
Tribe of Simeon
I’m writing about Tutu. Tutu is in the tribe of Manasseh. Her ATL is Bologna and she has six ladies in her cabin. Her favorite color is purple. Tutu’s favorite part of camp is being around all her campers and spending time with them. She loves the enchiladas at lunch and also the macaroni and chicken. Tutu has been in the Camp Gilgal family for 12 years now and this is her third year on staff. Her favorite activity is for sure MI because she loves to sneak around and crack the codes. Tutu loves teaching all the campers at choir during free time, and even being in the pool with everyone. Her all-time favorite theme night is Sing and Dance for Your Mail Night. Tutu never had a favorite tribe leader because she loved them all. Her favorite year on staff is this year. Her entire tribe thinks she’s amazing and a wonderful tribe leader. Tutu’s favorite season is springtime because that’s when the weather is nice and the flowers are blooming. Tutu is a great tribe leader and anyone would enjoy having her in their tribe.
Sarai M,. Age 10
Tribe of Naphtali
Waffles has been a tribe leader for three years, and has been a camper for nine years. Her favorite color is blue-green. One of her favorite things to do is photography, and one of her favorite foods is smoothies. Her favorite verse is Jeremiah 29:11.
She also likes campfires and horseback riding. Waffles is a great person. I first met Waffles my first year of junior camp. Waffles likes to put berries like strawberries on her waffles and lots of syrup, and the same with me. I love Waffles. Waffles is a very fun and cool tribe leader. She is also almost always carrying a camera. I guess she really likes photography. She also is very good at it. (She practices a lot.) She and Acorn have the same type of camera. I think it is very cool that every year I’ve come to camp so far, Waffles has been there.
Ben R., Age 12
Tribe of Zebulun
I interviewed Diesel, my tribe leader, about all the things he does at camp and outside of camp. I also got some information about him. Diesel was born in Sacramento, CA, on December 27. He first came to camp when he was eight and went on staff in 2008. His favorite thing to eat at camp are enchiladas, and he enjoys Sing and Dance for Your Mail Night. Outside of camp, Diesel enjoys boating, going to the ocean, and visiting exotic locations, like Lake Tahoe, and going rock climbing. Diesel’s favorite chapter from the Bible is Romans 12:1-12. Diesel is a great tribe leader to have during camp. He’ll mess with you a lot, but he’s a nice guy and fun to be around. All in all, my experience interviewing him was positive and encouraging.
Evan S., Age 13
Tribe of Zebulun
I interviewed Garfield. He is an ATL at camp in the tribe of Zebulun. His favorite thing to do at camp is Flat On Bunk, or FOB. During FOB Garfield likes to take naps or play pranks on other tribes. He loves playing games like MI or Wells Fargo. He enjoys playing pranks on the tribe of D
an by turning off their lights and making them think it’s M.I.
He also likes to clean the cabin for points every day and making cabin inspectors like us. Like one time, we got 100 points, also known as “Nailing It.” He likes playing video games in his free time. That’s all he does. He is funny and is a great tribe leader.
Every night he likes to do devotions and teach younger people about God, and teaching us more about God so we can become closer to Him.
Skye R., Age 12
Tribe of Manasseh
My name is Skye, and I am interviewing Hoops. Hoops says she was a camper for eight years and she had a lot of fun! I asked Hoops what she likes about camp, and she answered with “Camp is 
always the highlight of my summers. I love the anticipation – you never know what will happen next!” I asked what her favorite theme night is, and she said, “As much as I would love to say Crazy Hair Night, it’s a little too crazy for me, so my favorite would have to be Animal Night!” “What was your favorite year as a camper?” I asked. Hoops said, “My first year because I felt so welcomed into this big family!” “What was your favorite camp shirt?” I said. She replied with, “The baby blue one we wore for 2003.” I asked who her first friend was when she came to camp, and she said, “My very first friend at camp was I think Waffles.” Finally I asked if she ever won tribe of the year as a camper. She said, “Yes, I was in the tribe of Asher and instead of going somewhere we were each given an additional five dollars to spend in Columbia.” Hoops is such a great tribe leader, and I love her to death! Hoops has always been super nice to me and has been so inspiring to me. Whenever we do Men’s and Ladies’ campfires I always want to pray with Hoops. I think everybody should get to know Hoops.
Elliot K., Age 11
Tribe of Dan
If you want to have a friend that is funny and smart, Ewok is the right person to be with. I’m going to start out on simple questions and go harder. Ewok’s favorite food is sushi, which I think is disgusting, but people have different opinions. He likes camp food in a way. When I asked Ewok how old he was, he said, “That’s an excellent question.” He said that he wanted to say “That’s an excellent question” for zillions of years. He was a camper for four years, which I thought was cool because this is my fourth year. He plays games with campers during free time. His favorite color is lime-ish green. Ewok’s favorite time of day is afternoon and night. He thinks being staff is hard but worth it. Ewok thinks that camp is rated 10 out of 10. That is great because I think camp is the best, too. He loves Tabernacle and thinks it is the best part of camp. He loves Christian music. Last but not least, his favorite rock star is Simba. This was a great and fun interview of Ewok.
LaTanya H., Age 11
Tribe of Asher
Interviewing Bologna was fun while I asked her questions such as:
Q: What’s your full name?
A: Bologna Sandwich.
Q: How did you find out about Camp Gilgal?
A: My family has been involved with Camp Gilgal before I was even born.
Q: When’s your birthday?
A: December 31st.
Q: What’s your favorite animal, color and food?
A: Cat, pink, and frozen yogurt.
Q: What’s your favorite Bible verse?
A: Proverbs 3:5-6.
Q: What staff member here have you known the longest?
A: Smalls (since three years old).
Q: What’s your favorite camp activity?
A: FOB (Flat On Bunk).
Q: How long have you been a Messianic Jew?
A: My whole life, since I was old enough to get what it meant.
Q: What was your favorite activity at Columbia?
A: Marching and singing in the Fourth of July parade in Columbia.
Q: What do you like about Camp Gilgal?
A: I like that I can be myself, have fun, and learn more about God at the same time!
Those are the questions I asked Bologna during her interview.
Abbey M., Age 12
Tribe of Asher
Everybody knows and loves Poppins, the Camp Gilgal mom. She knows almost everything about first aid. If anything’s wrong, Poppins is the person to go to. She’s always open to talk and pray with you.
I i
nterviewed Poppins and asked her some questions. I started off with, “What is your real name?” She replied, “My parents named me Poppinitas Fritas because I always had supplies.” I then asked her, “Are you married and if so, who are you married to?” She answered, “I am married and I am married to Esquire” Then I asked her if she liked to cook. She told me that she did and that she liked to cook anything for large groups of people. After that I asked her what her funniest camp memory was. She said it was when she was driving campers back and forth from Columbia, and while doing that, unconsciously eating a whole giant box of saltine crackers. I asked her what her favorite type of cultural food was, and she told me it was Japanese food. Then I asked her what her favorite dish was and she said it was pot roast. And to conclude the interview, I asked Poppins, “How has Camp Gilgal brought your relationship with Yeshua closer?” She replied, “Watching Him faithfully provide campers and staff to Camp Gilgal and change their lives.”
Dinah N., Age 10
Tribe of Asher
Esquire, who is one of the out of cabin staff here at Camp Gilgal, is the leader of men’s side. Not only is he the dental inspector but he is also part of the cabin inspection crew that has done an awesome job at finding infractions. I decided to interview him so I could give a background on how it is on the men’s side. Firstly, I asked him on what his favorite verse from the Bible was, and he said, “My favorite verse is Philippians 4:6-7.” His favorite dish is barbequed steak. I also asked him why he wanted to come to Camp Gilgal, and he said, “I wanted to be at camp because I enjoy serving campers and following God’s call.”
Tribes of Gilgal
Sarah K., Age 13
Tribe of Simeon
The members of our tribe are Bazooka, Sparkler, Leia, Vika, Louisa, Kezia, Julia and me, Sarah. We are the oldest girl tribe and our cabin is Grizzly Flat.
Tribe leader: Bazooka has been going to camp for twelve years. Her favorite parts of camp are spending time with her tribe and when we did zumba on Ladies Day. Her favorite theme night that we’ve done so far is Once Upon a Time Night. Bazooka’s favorite food at camp so far is the chicken dumplings.
Assistant Tribe leader: Sparkler has been coming to camp for ten years. Sparkler’s favorite parts of camp are getting to see close friends and getting closer to God. Her favorite theme night is Utensil Night and her favorite camp food is spaghetti.
C
amper: Leia has been going to camp for five years now. She loves everything at camp. Her favorite camp food is macaroni and cheese and she loves Dance or Sing for Your Mail Night.
Camper: Vika has been going to camp for five years. She likes the night games. Her favorite theme night is Crazy Hair Night. Her favorite camp food is pizza.
Camper: Louisa has been going to camp for five years. She really liked when it rained this year. She liked it when we did Stop and Go Night. Her favorite camp food is pizza.
Camper: Kezia has been going to camp for three years now. One of her favorite parts of camp is seeing her friends. Her favorite theme night is Stop and Go Night and her favorite food is pizza.
Camper: Julia has been going to camp for five years. She likes the game Wells Fargo and her favorite theme night is Stop and Go Night. And her favorite camp food is the chocolate chip pancakes.
I’m so glad that I was in the tribe of Simeon this year. It was a lot of fun.
Lizzie N., Age 9
Tribe of Naphtali
The tribe of Naphtali is having some critter problems. There have been some wasps outside our cabin. We have had four wasps in our cabin, a big frog, two bees, two yellow coats, and one ant, as well as two moths. At FOB, we pass notes and play around. Emmalee always wakes up bright and early while the rest of us sleep. We hardly can get out of bed, and Maddie, Monique, and Mekerah always go in the pool while the rest play carpetball. Squirt left to go to Brazil, and Hoops came to take her place. The theme we did for Cabin Decoration Day is Outer Space. We had stars, Mercury, Black paper covering beds, and aliens. Our tribe leaders are Hershey, Squirt, and Hoops. Emmalee sleeps during FOB and Sarai reads. Sometimes Hershey sleeps and sometimes Hoops does. For Skit Night, we did a skit about a fast food restaurant where people order stuff like Love, Happiness, Riches, and Success. But then the inspector said no, you can’t sell that. I love my tribe. And that’s the tribe of Naphtali.
Sam F., Age 9
Tribe of Benjamin
My tribe is very, very noisy. During FOB, it was very noisy. They are all first years except me, I am a second year. They like to go swimming. I do, too. They also like to take showers. Danny (a kid in my tribe) takes a shower every morning and night. Michael likes carpetball and basketball. Nathan likes carpetball and ping pong. Isaiah likes swimming and Frisbee. Elijah likes Wells Fargo and carpetball. And I, Sam, like FOB and carpetball, basketball, swimming, horseback riding, the Gilgal store, ping pong, campfires, Tabernacle, Columbia, big pool swim, Men’s day, Gazette, hang out time, and men’s campfire. The kids in my tribe are Sam, Michael, Danny, Nathan, Isaiah, Elijah, and tribe leaders Java and Simba. I am in the tribe of Benjamin. I am in the cabin called Chili Bar. My tribe and I really like summer camp. My tribe doesn’t like FOB so much, but I love FOB. It is very, very fun.
Sophia M., Age 7
Tribe of Issachar
At Camp Gilgal I am seven years old. My tribe leaders are Acorn and Magnatron. My friends are Zemeira, Zoe, and Elizabeth. I like everything except FOB. FOB is when you have to be quiet and stay on your bunk. I was o
n a top bunk. Acorn is on the bottom bunk. My whole tribe loves swimming, especially Zoe. Our tribe is called Issachar, which means “sun.” We always take turns praying at night before bed. I always shout out, “Me first! Me first!” My whole tribe likes Dental Inspection, which is when you brush your teeth every night and the staff inspects everyone’s teeth. You get points for clean teeth when it is FOB. Our tribe writes letters to each other. We each have a “mailbox” in the cabin and when we write letters to each other, we can put them in the mailbox. Zoe writes all kinds of things to me. When it was my birthday at camp, we all had the best time. My tribe leaders decorated our table in the dining hall and put streamers on my bunk. Lots of my friends in my tribe are very silly, and I am, too. We have fun together in the tribe of Issachar.
Matt L., Age 13
Tribe of Zebulun
I am a proud participant in the tribe of Zebulun. Our tribe was filled w
ith seven campers, Diesel and Garfield. The campers’ names are Emeth, Ben, Evan, Isaac, David, Malachi, and me. Emeth was born in Florida, then moved to Oregon, then to California; he is kind and loving and quiet. Our next camper is Ben. He was born in New York, moved to Texas and then California; he is a very loyal and confident friend. Evan is a camper that is always noticed. He is funny, loud, and likes to play leader. Evan refused to tell where he was born, but I do know he lives in San Clemente, California. Isaac is a quiet, funny camper who likes to keep to himself but sometimes gets kind of rowdy. David was born in California and then moved to Shanghai and moved back to California. He has the mind of a scholar and is very academic. Our ATL (assistant tribe leader) was Garfield. He is a good leader and is very funny. He likes lasagna, I think. Malachai is a very God-focused camper and is devoted to serving God. Diesel was our tribe leader. He likes to have the AC on at night. All in all, I feel blessed to be in a cabin where the subject of God can be brought up at any time.
Josh L., Age 10
Tribe of Judah
The tribe of Judah is very interesting and I’m in it, which is cool because the campers in it are cool and fun to talk to. There are six campers, two tribe leaders. One of the campers is Eric, age 12. He lives in Santa Rosa. This is his first year at camp and his favorite thing to do is ride four wheelers. Another camper is Nathan, age 11. He lives in San Diego. This is his fourth year at camp, and his favorite thing to do is play football. Another camper is Corey, age 9. He lives in Sacramento. This is his second year at camp. His favorite thing to do is to go to camp. Another camper is Isaac H., age 10. He lives in Los Angeles. This is his second year at camp, and his favorite thing to do is draw. The last camper is Isaac J., age 11. He lives in Ramona. This is his second year at camp. His favorite thing to do is carpetball. One tribe leader is Techno, age unknown. He lives in Simi Valley, and he has been a tribe leader for unknown years. His favorite thing to do is swimming. Another tribe leader is Professor, age unknown. He lives in Granada Hills, and he has been a tribe leader for unknown years. His favorite thing to do is read.
Elias B., Age 11
Tribe of Dan
I’m Elias and I’ll be talking about the people in the tribe of Dan, starting out with Jacob – Jacob always has crazy energy and is very loud! He especially likes to play carpetball. Elliot – Elliot is also very energetic. He eats a lot of sugar, especially at breakfast. He piles brown sugar. He is loud just like Jacob, and he loves to climb trees. Jaden – Jaden laughs a lot and always has a smile. He is good at drawing. His favorite thing about camp is camp! He also likes to swim. Jeremiah – Jeremiah has a lot of energy too, and he has a lot of scary, funny and creepy faces to share with people. His favorite thing to do at camp is swim, and his favorite thing about camp is almost everything! Reuven – Reuven is very hyper, too. He likes to go swimming and play carpetball. His favorite thing about camp is Mission Impossible. Elias – I myself also am very energetic. I like the pool and I love Capture the Degel. We have different interests but they blend together to make one unique and amazing tribe.
Mia C., Age 11
Tribe of Asher
Our tribe is Asher, the tree. This humble character hosts five really funny and nice 11-12 year old campers and two awesome tribe leaders. The campers of 2011’s Camp Gilgal Asher are Abbey, Haneen, Dinah, LaTanya, and myself, Mia. Dinah and LaTanya were both new campers, but they have found their place in the Camp Gilgal family. Our tribe leaders are Waffles and Smalls, who have brought lots of fun to our cabin. Although it has only been a few days at camp, these lovely girls (me included) have proven that camp can be really fun, even if you don’t have many friends.
Since Asher is our tribe name, we have painted a huge tree on our light blue degel. This tree has all of our names on the branches, symbolizing a family that is connected. Hanging from our tree is a large tire swing. (There isn’t really a symbolic meaning to it.) Across the bottom of the degel is a ginormous sun that is setting. We spent a lot of time working on it, and I am proud to have it as our symbol.
Daily life in our cabin of Fiddle Town, there is no such thing as quiet. Everyone is always awake and talking or bothering someone. We all love to have fun when the time calls for it or not. Asher is ready to accept any challenge, yet reason with others to get the best results. We get things done and try to fix our mistakes. Here are some thoughts of some of my tribe mates:
Q: How do you like your cabin?
Haneen says, “I like it… it’s nice.”
Q: What makes this tribe unique?
Waffles says, “You guys work together as a tribe and easily made friends. I am impressed by how fast you clean up and organize our cabin in the morning.”
Smalls says, “Everyone has different personalities but it results in a happy atmosphere.”
Q: How do you like your fellow tribe mates?
LaTanya says, “I like them. They’re cool and funny.”
These are the ideas of one camper to another. I am so glad that I was a part of the tribe of Asher. I know that
we will be more connected as these two weeks go on.
Fun Days, Crazy Nights
Elizabeth R., Age 7, will be 8 July 28th
Tribe of Issachar
When I first arrived at camp, it was hard to say goodbye to my mom. But I started having fun right away. I met new people in my tribe. I found out my tribe leaders were Magnatron and Acorn. We took our suitcases and put them in our cabin. The first night we made our flag and decided we would be the tribe of Issachar. We made a white degel with a sun on it 
because Issachar means sun. I had a lot of fun painting the degel. On our degel I painted my name as one of the sunrays. We had eight sunrays – one for each of the girls in our tribe. Later that night I started to get homesick, but a lot of girls in my tribe told me it would go by really fast because we were going to have so much fun. That made me feel a lot better. I started making lots of friends. What they told me was true, and I love Camp Gilgal very much. I can’t wait for next year.
Zoe N., Age 8
Tribe of Issachar
This is Camp Gilgal’s 20th anniversary. Most of the staff 
used to be campers. The first year of Camp Gilgal was all boys. My tribe is the tribe of Issachar. My tribe leaders are Acorn and Magnatron. I like to swim in the swimming pool. I have made new friends and their names are Kayla, Shannon, Zemeira, Sophia, and Elizabeth. At Camp Gilgal you get to learn Hebrew and you get to do crafts. This year we are making mosaics. I like my degel because it is yellow, blue, gold, and orange. I am glad I’m in Issachar because it is fun. I am enjoying my first year at Camp Gilgal. Camp has been a really fun place and I can’t wait to come next year.
Vika S., Age 12
Tribe of Simeon
When they first announced stargazing, everyone assumed that it was Mission Impossible. Most people didn’t even br
ing comfortable sleeping items. Both Professor and Esquire led stargazing. We had stargazing on Friday after Shabbat, a little while after it got dark. We all went down and got as comfortable as possible.
We started talking about constellations and about the brightness of stars. Everyone saw a couple of shooting stars. It was a beautiful night. It was a perfect night for stargazing because the moon wasn’t out.
Our conversations varied in different directions. We talked about black holes, worm holes, and airplanes combusting. Then back to the usual such as shooting stars, asteroids, and the planets. We talked how beautiful God created the heavens.
I asked different people what their favorite part of stargazing was and Sarah K. said, “It is very peaceful and I like looking at the stars.” Sarai M. said, “How beautiful the stars are.” Sam F. said, “Seeing shooting stars.” I personally
enjoy stargazing because of the beautiful night sky.
Sarah K., Age 12
Tribe of Simeon
“The tribe of Simeon!” Streetlight called. My counselors Sparkler and Bazooka walked up to the stage at campfire and began the awards ceremony.
First Kezia was called up. Things continued and I realized I was going last in my tribe.
“Why do I have to go last?” I asked Kezia.
“Why did I have to go first?”
Our camper of the year was Louisa. She says, “I was surprised but I was also happy.”
Next was the tribe of Zebulun. Ben was their camper of the year! This continued and finally, right before the tribe Benjamin we got a bathroom break. Thank Goodness! Sam was their camper of the year and the last tribe went.
“The tribe of Issachar!”
Up came Magnatron and Acorn. The campers came up and received their awards. Shannon was their camper of the year. And with that they ended the awards ceremony.
After that, Streetlight came up to give us further instructions, and strangely the lights went out.
Julia K., Age 12
Tribe of Simeon
Streetlight walked up to the stage. It was the end of the awards ceremony at campfire. I was expecting all the goodbyes that usually happen then. But something else happened. The lights went out and we heard the soft sound of…the MI music!
I got to my cabin fumbling for my flashlight. Into jeans a
nd a jacket and, “Rip!” We opened our first clue. “Field,” it said. And off we went!
We found the clues in the middle of the field. Then Moose came right by us and… didn’t see us! We figured it out and off we went!
It was like this all along, dodging spotters and running from one place to another.
Our clue in the volleyball court was our ninth clue. Vika and Sparkler went down to get it while we waited noiselessly by some of the rocks. They brought it up and it said, “Tennis.” Table tennis! Or was it at the dodge ball court? We call the tennis court actually dodge ball so we went to table tennis and… no clue. That meant it was at dodge ball after all! However, before we could get there, the lights turned on and we went back to the dining hall for war stories.
Jaden W., Age 11
Tribe of Dan
Water balloon volleyball was so fun. We got second place in it. The tribe of Zebulun won, and the tribe of Simeon won too. Water balloon volleyball is a fun game to play. You have a tarp and a water balloon. The whole tribe surrounds and grabs ont
o the tarp and tries to propel a water balloon over the net. If the water balloon is not caught by the opposing tribe’s tarp and breaks on the ground, the other tribe would score a point. The first tribe to score three points wins the match. I laughed especially hard when a water balloon hit my sister in the shoulder. When the tribe of Dan (my tribe) and Zebulun faced off in the men’s championship, it was a very back and forth match. But Zebulun finally came back and won. At the end, the men and ladies tribe leaders played a match and I was running up and down the hill again and again cheering the men on. The men easily defeated the ladies tribe leaders, and afterwards the men ran, jumped and shouted over their victory. Even though we didn’t win, everyone had a really good time.
Emeth P., Age 12
Tribe of Zebulun
Wells Fargo is a game in which you steal a bag of gold, and if you are tagged you start over.
It started when the whistle blew. I ran towards a bag, when I noticed
a Wells Fargo agent next to me. I jumped down rocks and then scaled a hill. I was almost to the base when I tripped and fell and got tagged.
I decided to get the hard bag. It was on a cliff. I dodged an agent and jumped in a ditch. I crawled through it as I pushed vines and rocks out of my way.
At last I was at the top and I saw the bag. I ran through the muddy water and got the bag. I got tagged. Then I walked down – a long way down.
Then I ran up again, and again, and again. I was going up and down so much I lost track of time.
It was the sixth time down when I noticed I was in poison oak. I tripped and stumbled down. Suddenly I didn’t
play anymore, but I had such a good time. I will remember that game forever. The End
Leia B., Age 12
Tribe of Simeon
The 20th anniversary of camp had a lot of guests at Camp Gilgal. We all love having guests because they’re so fun and they usually surprise us.
Our first guest this year was Cricket. She surprised us during water balloon volleyball. Cricket helps Moose get everyone to camp. We were so thankful that she got to visit us.
KoKo and Cucamonga came after. They only stayed for about a day and a half but we wish they could have stayed longer.
Our next guest was Swedey. She is Moose’s wife. Everyone from camp really loves Swedey because she’s like the second camp mom (the first is Poppins). She stayed until the Fourth of July and we were all so sad when she left.
Eyegore and Cookie came around the same time Swedey did. They have made a tradition of visiting camp every year. Eyegore and Cookie live on a farm and they let us know every year. This year they brought peacock feathers.
Other guests we had were Big Tuna, Sonic, and Bandit. We were all excited to have them join us for July Fourth and Skit Night.
Our biggest surprise guest was Amp. He surprised on Skit Night. Everyone screamed and even Moose was surprised!
All the guests this year at camp were super fun and we all really enjoyed seeing them.
D
inah N., Age 10
Tribe of Asher
The water balloon volleyball game was an exciting and interesting game. The whole camp gathered around the volleyball court. Some were cheering.
First up was Asher and Manasseh. They had tarps which they put the water balloon in and they had to throw it over the net. If it didn’t make it, then it was one point to the other team. If they did the other team would have to try to catch the water balloon, and if they don’t, then it’s one point to the other team.
So first was Asher and Manasseh. It was an interesting game. The tribe of Asher threw the water balloon, but it didn’t make it. The ladies of Asher lost! Manasseh had three points.
Then it was Naphtali and Simeon. Simeon won the round with their powerful throw.
The boys were up. It was Dan and Judah. Judah won. Then Zebulun and Benjamin were playing. Zeb
ulun won.
After that it was another game. From the girl’s side Simeon won and from the boy’s side was Zebulun. These were the champions of 2011 Camp Gilgal water balloon volleyball.
Now they were going to see, was it going to be Zebulun or Simeon. This was an exciting game. It took about 10-15 minutes for one of them to finally win. It was Zebulun!
After Zebulun won, then the staff played. It was men and ladies. The ladies were close but the men won.
Zemeira W., Age 9
Tribe of Issachar
Streetlight told us to put on closed-toed shoes, bug spray, long pants and a jacket. We hiked to the creek. We had fun. We jumped on rocks, stuck our feet in the water, and we sent leaves down the tiny waterfalls. We brought a picnic dinner and water bo
ttles. I liked it very much. I found snails in the water. I was playing in the water when I saw little drops of rain. The clouds in the sky got dark and then it started pouring! I felt so sad, I almost cried. I thought to myself, “How could it be raining in the summer?” We had to hike all the way back up the hill. We came back into the dining hall and sat down – we were soaked! Then we had to go all the way back to our cabin in the rain. We were all scared because of the thunder and lightning. We all got scared. I was thinking what the boys would be saying! Then, later at night when we were all asleep, we woke up to a loud honking! Everybody woke up suddenly – except one person. Then what we discovered was ROOM SERVICE! The staff brought us Taco Bell in the pouring rain! I loved it, and then I was happy. It hasn’t rained at camp since.
Matthew L,. Age 13
Tribe of Zebulun
After FOB was over, everyone came to line up ready for lunch. We were all ready to go and eat when Diesel came
out of the dining hall announcing that it was Men’s Day by taking off his shirt. Written on his chest was “Men’s” and on his back was “Day.” All the men cheered (as usual), and all the ladies remaine
d quiet (as usual). All the men
moved into the dining hall as all the ladies prepared for horseback riding. It is traditional to boo any of the ladies that come into the dining hall on Men’s Day (except for Poppins, who is our Camp Gilgal mom and takes care of us for about two weeks!). For lunch we ate Sloppy Joes and potato salad. After lunch we went down the hill to the field where we had IDF (Israeli Defense Force) training. We had a relay race which was really tiring. After that we had javelin throwing contests in which we were to throw a softball as far as we could. We then went back to the pool outside the dining hall and played a game where we greased a watermelon and tried to get it to the other side. It’s kind of like soccer, except you use your hands, you’re in a pool, and the ball is a greased watermelon. We then moved from the pool into the dining hall where we enjoyed root beer floats. After that we went outside and played…. Eat That Food! The game is very gross and enjoyable. What happens is you have a bag with some kind of gross concoction in it. Diesel would then call on two volunteers that would come up and bet on how many bites they can eat the food in the bag. The grossest food was sardines mixed with syrup, pickles, cinnamon, and mustard. At the same time we were blowing up watermelons by mixing dry ice with hot water in a water bottle, and then quickly stuffing it into a hollowed watermelon, and then just watch the show. I really enjoyed Men’s Day this year, far above all other years.
Sarah K., Age 13
Tribe of Simeon
The ladies campfire was so nice and beautiful. This year the staff who spoke at the campfire were Hershey and Snapple.
When Hershey spoke and told about how she felt during and after camp it reminded me of how I feel at camp and at home. And she reminded me that God is always with us and God will take care of us. We don’t have to be afraid about anything because God is with us.
When Snapple talked I wanted to cry. When she told about how hard her life was last year it was just so sad and when some of the staff went down to pray for her it was just beautiful. She reminded us that even though hard things happen, we still have hope in Y’shua.
At the end when the campers picked a tribe leader to come pray for them, you could just feel the love that comes from everybody. It is just so nice to know that we all care for each other and that we will always be there when one of us is sad or hurt.
I’m so glad that I went to camp this year and we have such an awesome family at camp.
Emmalee S., Age 10
Tribe of Naphtali
One of Camp Gilgal’s f
un activities is swimming. Gilgal campers go swimming in our pool, or as we call it, the Gunite Pond. There are so many activities to do in the pool. Some of them are monkey in the middle, gymnastics underwater, cannon balls and many more. The pool temperature is perfect. When you get in it it’s a little cold, but it will warm up. Just the other day we made a whirlpool, which is when all the people in the pool swim one way to make the pool go around in a circle. The whirlpool was so much fun, everybody had a struggle when we switched ways swimming. Our Gilgal pool goes from three feet to five feet deep. I love swimming in the pool. In the pool, people like to bring tubes, pool noodles, and snorkel gear. All the girls in my tribe love to swim. There is always a lifeguard on duty, so that we will be safe at all times. The Gunite Pond is an awesome place to be on a hot summer day!
Benjamin W.
Age 15
From the first year playing freeze tag at a small camp in Tuolumne county, to playing Capture the Degel at teen camp, to four-wheeling with adventure camp while traveling up the California Coast. From no one knowing one another to being a family. From a local beginning to becoming an international event. Camp Gilgal has been happening for 20 years, and it is just the beginning.
Everything started in early summer, 1991, when 13 campers attended the first Camp Gilgal at Silver Spur in Tuolumne, California. A year later they first entered Columbia’s Glorious Fourth of July Parade. Throughout the years, many other things have happened, like the start of new camps: teen camp, adventure camp, and WWW (Wonderful Winter Weekend). They have also included new games like Capture the Degel and Mission Impossible.
But this camp is way more than games and a way to get away from it all. It is a place to connect with other believers, make new friends, and learn more about God and life. Camp Gilgal has impacted many campers positively in the name of Yeshua!
Camp is important. We all know “Once part of the Camp Gilgal family, always part of the Camp Gilgal family!” This is why we are all more than just friends…We are Family! Many of us were dramatically affected by camp; no one ever truly regrets their experience here. Lives are changed here, we learn about God love here, we learn to love others, and how God can affect your own life.
This article, being very vague, is a very basic statement of what has happened the past 20 years of camp. It has helped many young believers in Yeshua.
Merekah P., Age 9
Tribe of Naphtali
One of the best things about Camp Gilgal is Skit Night. The Skit Night this year was hosted by Susie and Stella (Poppins and Snapple). They would talk back and forth, and would call people up from the audience to do stuff (like singing). My tribe’s (Naphtali) skit was a restaurant that sold things like salvation and grace. Zebulun’s skit was a Bible story about a left handed man who killed an evil king. In my opinion it was the best skit of the night. It was really funny. They even had a violin in it! Another skit was a show about different beliefs. Part of the skit was a commercial about Justin Bieber (boo!). Issachar’s skit was about friends who broke promises to each other but still forgave each other in the end. A different skit was about three campers whose degel was stolen. They had to go past lots of temptations. It was hard for them, but they did succeed.
Katie S.
Age 13
Every morning after a fierce time of cabin cleaning, campers grab their Bibles and sit by cabin in the meeting hall for Tabernacle. Often it begins with practicing this year’s memory verses, which were Philippians 2:5-11. This is followed by singing several songs of worship. After the Sh’ma, we read from the Bible. This year we went through the book of Mark. Moose gives a very interactive message about our theme, “Called to Serve.” Together, we learn about Y’shua’s love for us and how we can serve Him.
Once, when we were in Yosemite, Moose had Tabernacle outdoors by the Merced River. It felt great to be out in nature while we talked about God. Moose used the river to illustrate his message.
Whether in the meeting hall or at Yosemite, Tabernacle at Camp Gilgal teen camp is very memorable for everyone.
Leia B., Age 12
Tribe of Simeon
Ladies Day is always so much fun! My first year of camp we did a Candyland theme. It was really exciting. All the other years were very fun too, but I think this year was the best so far. This year for Ladies Day we did a pajama theme.
We all lined up for lunch and Skye, Amanda, and I said to each other, “I bet it’s Ladies Day.” Then like five minutes later music went on in the dining hall and Poppins and Snapple came down the hill screaming in their PJs. All the ladies started screaming and walked into the dining hall to eat lunch.
After eating lunch we had FOB. It wasn’t very fun because our tribe leaders made us actually have FOB. Nobody in our cabin actually slept, we just passed notes and ate candy.
Later on, the whistle blew and all the ladies came down to swim for a little while. In the middle of swimming they called us all out to do some zumba. Then we went and put on our PJs.
When we got back down to the dining hall, we were so excited to find out what it looked like inside. We walked in and saw a photo shoot set up. The staff did our nails and put tinsel in our hair, and we had popcorn and other good snacks.
When our hair and nails were done, we all gathered around to tell mad lib bedtime stories. We didn’t want the fun to end, but then we heard the guys pull up in the big white vans. As soon as we heard them we all scattered to our cabins to change out of PJs to make Ladies Day remain a secret.
Rachel A.
Age 13
It’s amazing how easily we forget everything Jesus has done for us. But this year, God wouldn’t let me get away with it. Being the first person to memorize Philippians 2:5-11, this year’s theme verse, I was soon nominated to be one of two verse judges. That means that after campers and staff members had learned the six verses, they would say them to me for approval, and then I would add their names to a list. As a result, I learned quite a few people’s names, had a notebook constantly by my side, eventually broke a pen, and was reminded over and over how much God loves us.
This week, I have been told all day long that Jesus “humbled Himself to death-even death on a cross.” My job was to help people remember that. And without them even knowing, they’ve helped me to never forget.
Isaiah L., Age 8
Tribe of Benjamin
Knot tying is when Moose teaches campers how to tie knots, such as the figure eight knot, taut line hitch, square knot, and fishing knots. I liked tying knots because you can do a lot of things with the knots. I think I will use these knots
for rock climbing and fishing. Moose’s favorite knot is the taut line hitch. I like that knot because you can tighten and loosen it. I like the fishing knots because I can use them for fishing, and I also liked tying them. If you want to learn how to tie knots, you have to learn all the steps. For the square knot, you first have to take the two ends and tie them into a normal know, then you have to do another normal knot in the opposite direction. Then you pull in the opposite direction. Moose said this knot was very useful, but he said the taut line knot was the most useful knot for him. I’m going to teach others how to tie knots because tying knots is really fun. I hope Moose teaches us how to tie more knots next year. It’s been one of my favorite parts of camp, and I can’t wait to do it again.
Austin R.
Age 13
Cabin Inspection, do we hate it or do we love it? It’s suspenseful yet awful. It’s almost impossible to accomplish a perfect score in Cabin Inspection. No matter how much you may try to clean, you will have an infraction. Whether something was disheveled or askew, it’s an infraction either way. Cabin Inspection is one of the most interesting and suspenseful parts of the day!
Cleaning for Cabin Inspection is a long and laborious experience, because, while cleaning, you need to pay attention to everything that IS or COULD BE an infraction. In cabin inspection, everyone needs to work as a team, because, one or two people can’t clean an entire cabin. Working together in this way is very important.
In general, Cabin Inspection is a challenge that makes us stay clean. It also helps us to work together as one big team. It’s a fun time and everyone helps out to try to be the best cabin!
Nathan B., Age 8
Tribe of Benjamin
I like playing basketball with my friends. It is fun. I had fun playing Knockout with the campers. I interviewed my friend, Danny, and he likes to play Horse and Pig. We played a regular game of Lightning, or “Bump It,” Around the World, and Granny Throw. Sam likes Knockout. I don’t play basketball that often though. I just sometimes like to play. I am very good at shooting the ball. I like playing with Elliot, Danny, Elias, Sam, Garfield, Nacho, Simba, Nathan, Jaden, and Ben. I like playing Knockout. I enjoy playing basketball during free time before I go swimming. I don’t win a lot because there are a lot of tribe leaders playing, but I still have a lot of fun. I also lose sometimes because I get really tired when it’s hot out. That is why I go swimming after I play.
The Creative Side of Gilgal
Isaac J., Age 11
Tribe of Judah
Splash! Through dense undergrowth that is. The creek
is fun, but can be dangerous if you’re not careful. You have to travel down rocks, and over wires. It does not run rapidly, but in fact acts more like a pond. Rocks encompass most of it, creating an algae pond from lack of current. Most of the rocks are at least partially underwater, making them slippery so you have to be careful. Also a wide variety of wildlife live there, including: leeches, tadpoles, frogs, and water spiders. And also probably over about one hundred thousand germs in it, too. It is pretty disgusting, so make sure to take a shower afterwards! Also put bug spray on for sure. This last time it rained and poured, and we all got soaked. It was muddy, rocky, and we were all cold and wet. It was a long trek, and when we got back to the dining hall we got to go and take warm showers, and then we got Taco Bell delivered to us. It was a long day and night, but also a day of history because we got room service! It was a very memorable occasion.
By Psalm R.
Age 14
It’s free time and I’m hungry
But the general store is full
There’s a long line for the coffee
But it’s so worth waiting for
They’ve got pretzels, ice cream, soda
And oh so many tasty things
They can make a chocolate milkshake that will give you wings
The sun is getting hotter
And I’m still waiting in line
It is moving really slowly
But we’ve still got some time
There’s other people swimming
Or doing arts and crafts
And thinking on their folly makes me smile; makes me laugh
I’m almost to the front now
And I’m feeling really fine
I can almost taste the drinks
That they’re blending up inside
Some have things like Oreos
Or Butterfingers (yum!)
But I got one with chocolate and caramel just for fun
Nathan P., Age 11
Tribe of Judah
The men’s campfire is right in front of the cafeteria, with the green benches. Simba did worship for us. He did the songs “Inside Out” and “How He Loves Us.” After worship, Professor spoke about how we should forgive and not try to be perfect, because we all make mistakes. After Professor spoke, Moose said that we should take an intermission. When the intermission was done Moose said the tribe leaders were there so we could go pray with them. When we were done with that we worshiped some more and just praised God. Then we were dismissed to our cabins. I enjoyed the men’s campfire a lot. Isaac H. thinks that the campfire was fun. Techno thought it was spiritually awesome.
Dotti P.
Age 14
God, you’ve watched over me all of my days
Before I knew which path to take
You were there always and forever there
Lord, you knew me before I knew myself
And you saw me before anybody else
You stand by me when I’m on my own
God, because of you, I am found
At home I feel alone, but with you, God, I feel complete
When I’m sad, Lord, you come and fill me with
Your love, from my nose down to my feet
Your Glory is what draws me near
Your kindness takes away all my fears
Your love takes me from within
You surround me with your greatest blessing
God, you’ve watched over me all of my days
Before I knew which path to take
You are here always and forever here
Malachai W., Age 13
Tribe of Zebulun
Campfire: Campfire is a time when the entire camp goes behind the dining hall to the campfire. One of my favorite things about it is when we worship in God’s creation, which is lots of fun (except the bugs). But the songs make up for that. After worship, one of the seasoned tribe leaders comes forward and shares their testimony with the rest of the camp. So far, Squirt has shared her testimony and after that, a few days later, we had men’s and ladies’ campfire, which is when the ladies go to the lower campfire and the men go to the upper campfire. First we had worship, then Professor shared his testimony. The testimonies are amazing! And they challenge you to live a life more glorifying to God. At the end of the speech, we have open prayer, in which campers and tribe leaders can pray on whatever they want. Or one on one prayer. I love campfire because it gives me a chance to get closer to God. And that is one of the many reasons I like campfire so much.
Moriah J.
Age 16
The pines grow close together
Dark green needle clusters
And scattered trees.
The glowing golden light
Streams through the trees
Streaks of yellow against
Stripes of dark.
Pine needles litter the forest floor
Carpeting it.
Pine cones are scattered across the ground
Not a single pace of ground
Is without one
A spiky seed-filled structure
For decoration.
The light continues to glow
The most brilliant light I have ever seen
Yet soft at the same time
The shafts of light make me
Feel at peace as this poem
Forms in my head,
And fairies pop into my head
I imagine this is an enchanted forest and I cherish the
Drive back from Yosemite
Mia C., Age 11
Tribe of Asher
During a historic night of rain at Camp Gilgal, we were all in our cabins in the middle of devotions when a loud beeping noise came from outside. Several of us thought it was Poppins’ car alarm while others thought someone was stealing a car. The few minutes of confusion ended when Streetlight came running down to our cabin holding a bulging bag, while screaming, “Room service!” At first I thought they were going to clean our room until I saw Taco Bell on the bags they were carrying. Although the tribe of Asher already brushed their teeth, we enjoyed the late snack of burritos and tacos. My tribe and I laughed and ate for another 20 minutes before actually going to bed. I was glad that this happened because 1: I was still hungry, and 2: because I would always remember how I was a part of Camp Gilgal’s “thunderstorm moment.” Thank you, Streetlight, and all the other out-of-cabin staff that bought and served each cabin Taco Bell! And from now on, I will remember the difference between “room service” and “housekeeping.”
Hannah Y.
Age 15
FOB
The fading memory of rest
With sore legs, bruises and sanity being scattered to the wind
The words: flat on bunk, is but a phrase uttered, yet never reached
FOB Alas, FOB
In the time dusted past of junior camp ‘twas a few moments each day
Of pure unadulterated rest
Only interrupted by the whispers of campers, rustle of papers, and crunches of candy
FOB
The fading memory of rest
Teen Camp rushed into our lives, in its full fiery blaze
Burning itself into our lives
We are older, yet maturity is to be questioned
Each day of teen camp is chaos contained, threatening to burst
Packed and hectic, coated in surprise and mystery
A collection of injuries awaits us
A few hours of sleep beckoning us
But the tantalizing F.O.B is no longer
A cobwebbed remembrance
Oh, FOB!
Dearest FOB!
Alas! Alas!
FOB
The fading memory of rest
Once I was a foolish child of red cheeks and fancies
A buffoon without appreciation
Wrapped up in excitement
Drunk off the energy of camp
I detested FOB, cursed its existence
Dear FOB, gentle being
FOB cared for my welfare
Gifted my little frame with rest
Fight it I did
But I learned to yearn for its embrace
Appreciate its gentle ways
Love the rustle of notes passed and stifled giggles
FOB
Oh, FOB!
Why has teen camp forsaken you?
Thrown you to the wolves
Shunned your sweet approach
Teen camp weaned us off rest
Taught us the way of the zombie
But still in the depths of our soul
The ravines of our thoughts
We honor your existence
Miss your silly acronym
FOB!
Alas, FOB!
Come back to us!
Come back
FOB
The fading memory of rest
Zzzzzzzzzzzz……..
David S., Age 12
Tribe of Zebulun
This year, Malachai had his bar mitzvah at camp. This was a part of Camp Gilgal history. It was the first and only (until now) bar mitzvah held at junior camp. Malachai’s birthday was on July 1, at camp, and since he was turning 13, he had his bar mitzvah here (July 2, 2011). His family came a few days before it. Rabbster, Mrs. Walker, Tirzah, Kezzi, and Talia (Zemeira an
d Jaden were already here). His parsha was Balak. He read Numbers 22:2-6 in the Hebrew. For his drash, he went through the story of Balaam and Balak. He talked about how God will not let Israel be cursed. Then, since it was Shabbat, Rabbster talked about some verses and the lessons we can learn from them. I am really glad to be Malachai’s friend. Moose called up the “manly tribe of Zebulun” and Chai’s family and we prayed for him. I learned a lot from his bar mitzvah, and I hope that he will grow closer to God as he reaches manhood.
Tirzah W.
Age 15 ½
Deep in an enchanted forest, where near the end of the seventh month, a camp took place, thither gathered a great assortment of Jewish youth with amazing gifts given to them by Adonai. When they all came together they were in such unison that none could defeat them! Yet there times they annoyed one another; a great adventure was a battle of chance, and with the rules established the opposing sides: The Men vs. The Ladies. I, being a fairy princess and weaver of Laurel crowns, who laughs almost to a fault, was very eager for the sound of the peacocks tail feathers being pulled, and so the battle began. With my trusted friends, Hadassah and Brooke, we marched along the fortress to defend our colors from the Men, whilst our stealthy spy plotted the retrieval of the Men’s colors. As we defended our lines, a strange, beardless dwarf rushed from the surrounding tree line. He carried a torch in his left hand and he ran for the fortress gate. He very likely would have made it, had not the quick Vulcan, Ethel-Moriah
overtaken him and tagged him. He was escorted to the damp dungeons. Over and over people on both sides were taken captive, and as Hadassah’s torch began to expire we heard a crash in the brush. They leaped for the intruders to find Poppy, two hobbits, and an elf prince coming to steal the blue flag. Poppy was nabbed by Hadassah; and the elf prince by me, who brought them to the dungeons. I tried to be a kind escort, and tried hard to cause the prisoners to laugh. Poppy let no one know that she was deathly ill, and as the guards watched the concern, Poppy coughed harshly. Returning to my post, I sang a song from “Singing in the Rain.” Many from both teams were
injured from stumbling over rocks in the dark, a few had walked into trees of brambles, but all of the injuries were healed by the fairy camp mother, Poppins.
In the Ladies prison, Poppy swooned to death, and many mourned her. Only a few moments later, the peacock sounded; the games end a truce. Poppins appeared with a flash of glitter, looked at the lifeless body of Poppy, and announced “Tuberculosis” as the cause of death. The little boys and known girl, Madge-Tamar, wailed. Being moved by their sorrow, the fairy camp mother used her healing powers and a prayer to Adonai, and that spark of life restored Poppy in time for the Mt. Doom hike. There, with talkative Ethel-Moriah and Edith-Hannah (a tree nymph with fae-blood), I befriended the half elf/half hobbit, grandson of Peregrin Took named Faomire-Daniel. As the entire camp crossed a rope bridge that overshadowed a ravine of gushing lava they prepared for combat, and Ethel and I strongly sang Psalm 23. It encouraged their spirits.
The next day, the camp was invited to a ball, they all danced deep into the dark hours of the night. A few of the men discovered that they were without a disguise and so they used Matt’s helmet as one. I told my friend, Hadassah and Brooke, what fun it looked like and we joined in on the rousing game. When the campers retired to their cabins, they slept as if they were under enchantment. There were many moments of excitement, but overall camp has been a huge part of my life, and although Capture the Degel and a hike, or even a dance party, are not seen as enchanted to some, to me they most certainly are.
Isaac Y, Age 12
Tribe of Zebulun
Ping pong – the legendary game in which you hit a ball. 
You must bounce the ball on the other player’s side. It must bounce two times or bounce one time then off the table to get a point. If your opponent fails to return the ball one point is awarded. You can play to 11 or 21 points.
The game is hard. David is amazing at it. The game is really fun. If you don’t bounce it on their side the other player gets the point. You have to win by two points. You have to serve five times, then the next person serves. I enjoy the game a lot as many others do. As with most games, the more practice the better you are. It is really fun to play at free time. I like playing with staff and campers. It’s a great way to bond with your fellow campers.
Called to Serve
(Mark 10:45)
“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!
Tribes:
Tribe of Issachar: Avishai S., David M., Jacob Z., Levi H., Micah M., Cyclops
Tribe of Judah: Daphne N., Hannah D., Johannah C., Ketzia B., Leelle S., Liza C., Rebecca T., Sarah M., Heinz, Chickpea
Tribe of Dan: Ana G., Anaelle S., Dana C., Daniela R., Esther C., Maria K., 
Tatiana P., Sketch, Reptar
Tribe of Manasseh: Chloe N., Nastasya P., Rachel S., Rena B., Simone P., Violetta M., Cynthia R., Eureka
Out-of-Cabin Staff: Blewish, Tauros, Strings, Twister
Olivia P., Age 11
Tribe of Manasseh
One night of Camp Gilgal, all the campers came to dinner and Streetlight announced that night’s theme was…. UTENSIL NIGHT! Everybody started screaming and I had no idea why! Then I remembered what my friends Abbey and Lindsay 
told me about Utensil Night.
That’s when I got really excited. My utensil was a ladle. It was kind of weird because most of the girls in my tribe got ladles, so I think Esquire fixed the bucket of utensils.
Anyways, the ladle was super hard to eat with. One of the ways I got the spaghetti in my ladle is when Bologna used her tongs to pick up and put the spaghetti in my ladle. Another way is just when I used my fingers to kind of push the spaghetti into my ladle.
Here are all the utensils my tribe got: Amanda got tongs, Skye got tongs, Bologna got tongs, Tutu got a spatula, Destiny got a ladle, Judi got a ladle, Lindsay got a ladle, and I got a ladle. Since it was so hard for some of us to eat with our ladles, I think some of us might have lost our appetite. The rest of the night we all tried our hardest to get that food in our mouths. Everyone had a great time struggling to eat and that is what happened on Utensil Night.
Our Camp Gilgal Family
Skye R., Age 12
Tribe of Manasseh
My name is Skye R. and I am writing about Once Upon a Time Night. Once Upon a Time Night is when all the tribes dress up as characters from fairy tales. You also have to either do a little skit or just go through your line and say your names at dinner. Here are some interviews. Here is Amanda R. I asked Amanda what her tribe dressed up as, and she told me it was Snow White and the Seven Dwarves. Then I asked what her favorite costume was. She said she liked Issachar’s. Finally I asked what Amanda’s favorite part about Once Upon a Time Night was. She said she liked getting all the costumes ready.
Now here’s an interview from Smalls. “What was your favorite part about your tribe’s characters?” 
I asked. She said she liked that they were blind with walking sticks! Then I asked Smalls what her favorite fairytale was, and she said Snow White and the seven dwarves. Last I asked her what her tribe dressed up as. Smalls said they were the five blind mice, the farmer, and his wife.
So as you can tell, Once Upon a Time Night was really fun! My favorite part was getting to see all the costumes.
Johannah C., Age 13
Tribe of Judah
Chickpea has been at Camp Gilgal for six years and her favorite year at camp was 2005. She knew about Camp Gilgal through some family friends, but her parents also worked for Jews for Jesus for a while. Her favorite teen camp activity is the Decathalon. Her name is Chickpea because she says it suits her. She feels it’s a “superhero identity” for her. She had family at camp with her this year (one cousin at junior camp and five at teen camp!) and she really enjoyed it. She said it was “interesting,” especially since some of them were in her cabin! She loves teen camp the most, and she loved this year at camp because she learned a lot from campers as well as staff.
Her favorite Bible verse is Jeremiah 29:11 (“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future”), and her favorite book of the Bible is James. If she were
on a deserted island and it flipped over and became a restaurant she said it would be some Thai place that had a healthier kind of pad thai waiting for her. I asked her what was with Strudel, and she said that Strudel wasn’t really her
word, but “Strudel is Strudel.”
Amanda R., Age 12
Tribe of Manasseh
During Stop and Go Night Streetlight blows the whistle at random times, and that happens everyone in the dining hall has to freeze. When Streetlight blows it again we can resume our dinner. 
If you get caught moving you lose a utensil! Some people lost all their utensils so they had to eat with their hands.
I asked Skye if she lost any silverware, and she said no. Lindsay said she lost her knife and LaTanya lost her fork.
Sometimes people had to freeze in mid-swallow or when they were drinking. A couple people cheated by taking more than one fork or spoon!
Overall, everyone had tons of fun!!
Simone P., Age 15
Tribe of Manasseh
(This article was written under very angry circumstances)
I don’t like Strings. She is very mean. You might be wondering what Strings has done that makes her so mean. I can answer that. Strings is making me write this article. Writing is not fun. I do not like to write and Strings is making me write, therefore I don’t like Strings. I am going to hurry up and finish this article so I can go back to my cabin and FOB. YAY! By the way: on particular normal days with normal circumstances and when I am not being deprived from my sleep or forced to write, Strings is awesome!
Simone: My Least Favorite Campers
Strings
Out-of-Cabin Staff
[DISCLAIMER: This article was written under emotional duress as a rebuttal to Simone. It is personal.]
Simone is my least favorite camper. The first time we met, she was a cute seven year-old at WWW and she was in my cabin the next year at camp. But that has all changed. Now, she’s been to camp so many times, she thinks she knows everything! She likes to roll her eyes at me and tell me weird things. She might even be an ATL next year! WOW! She’s old!
Just kidding! Simone is awesome and I love hanging out with her. We’ll see about next year…
Judi W., Age 12
Tribe of Manasseh
On the Fourth of July we went to Columbia. There were so many things to do. And there were so many stores. And we did the egg toss and we did candle dipping and we got ice cream and shaved ice and soda. It was so yummy. And 
there were people playing music and I did the watermelon eating contest. It was good and hard. And at the end of the day we ran out of water, and it was not fun at all. But then we got more water, and everyone drank a lot of it because we were so thirsty. We ate lunch there and it was a great lunch. And the Gilgal Bank was brought there with us. And we all had a great time. And we all got a camp picture taken. A couple people stood on a steel roof and I was one of them. It was fun. And a boy next to me had a jar of gems and he put them down, and the water inside the jar was boiling. It was so cool. And while we were there we marched in the Fourth of July parade. We sang songs and wore the same shirts. The shirts are so cool.
Anaelle S., Age 14
Tribe of Dan
I got to interview one of my tribe leaders, Sketch, this year. Sketch came to camp this year because God worked it out for her to only be at teen camp, so she was able to get time off from work to do so. She told me she loves teen camp so she was really glad she could come. Sketch loves to be a tribe leader because it is always fun to be able to share her life with the campers. She said that her campers are cool and hilarious and she loves having the opportunity to help them in their walk with God. She also told me she loves the food!
I also asked Sketch if she liked her cabin this year. Her answer was clear. “The girls were very funny, entertaining, and smart. I had a cabin full of super models who all dressed so well. They taught me how to be cool.” Sketch only drinks
coffee, so I decided to ask her why. She said she drinks coffee because she wants to stunt her growth! She also likes to be awake…all the time!
I closed the interview by asking Sketch about her favorite activity. She liked all the activities she led: “Supermodeling was deep and profoundly emotional. Superhero/Villan was epic: we battled, used catch-phrases, defeated tentsville
and ate soup.” She also really enjoyed the Bible topics and said she was stumped by us several times, but it was good because she thought about things she had never thought about before. I really liked getting to be in Sketch’s cabin!
Elliot K., Age 11
Tribe of Dan
Crazy Hair Night was a great night. Crazy Hair Night is where we make our hair crazy. You can do whatever you want to make your hair crazy! That night was one of my favorite 
nights. My tribe wore tinfoil on our heads. I tried to make a helmet of a Roman soldier, but it sadly failed. One tribe dyed their hair red. Another tribe put uniforms on and put pony tails on. A tribe put their hair super crazy. I tried to make my hat, the whole entire time that we had to make our hair crazy. I thought that my hat would work really well, but as you know it failed and instead it looked like the iron giant in combat gear. Some people wore really weird and crazy wigs. I thought some people were so clever that they nailed it on being crazy and weird. I thought Crazy Hair Night was a crazy night.
Mia C., Age 11
Tribe of Asher
I was so excited when I heard that it was Feed Your Friend Night, because I had a lot of fun with it last year. However, this night was unexpected. It started when the tribe of Asher was picking partners. I was going to ask Waffles to be my partner, but Haneen asked her before me. I asked around, but to my disappointment, 
everyone already had a partner. Feeling sad and downhearted, I began to feed myself. As soon as I started, Smalls asked if I had a partner, and when I said, “No,” she looked around and saw Ewok recording everyone. Immediately, she asked him if he wouldn’t mind being my partner. “Oh, no!” I thought. How embarrassing! I asked Smalls what she was doing, and she said, “He was the closest person I saw.” From the first moment Ewok came to feed me, I knew this was not a good idea. He sat down and stabbed my fork into my lasagna and made me eat something that was way too big to fit into my mouth. He fed me one bit and then left to continue recording. He came back and forth with the same routine, forcing a huge piece of food into my mouth and then recording some more. Ewok would count the amount of veggies or memorize how much bread was left, and he made me promise not to touch it while he was gone. The mean part was that I had to go through choking hazards, and he cheated and fed himself however he pleased. I was surprised when he came back and fed me dessert. Hopefully, Waffles doesn’t put any of the pictures she took of us anywhere public.
This experience was challenging and fun at the same time. I totally call dibs on someone in my tribe next year!
David M., Age 15
Tribe of Issachar
On the night of the campout, the boys of camp (there are five of us and three male guy staff) 
were thinking of how to prank the girls. And we came up with the idea of unhooking the sticks that hold the tent up. So then the tent would collapse on the girls inside. So the plan was set and we waited till we knew all the girls were asleep. And once they fell asleep, we sneaked up quietly to the first tent and started unhooking the sticks off the tents and then we watched it collapse. All the guys ran away and started laughing hysterically. We then moved on to the rest of the tents and watched them all collapse. Then the girls began to scream because they had no idea what was going on. Some were upset, some were impressed about the prank. But the guys and I were really proud. Guys 3, Girls 0. My point – GUYS CABIN RULES!
Reuven R., Age 11
Tribe of Dan
In the Fourth of July parade, we sang two songs. One of them was “Prince of Peace” and the other one was “Psalm 23.” They are awesome songs. We were the 30th group in the parade and our feet got really tired. We practiced on the grass near the parade. As we walked in the parade people kept on clapping for us. When we approached the judges we turned toward them and sang “Prince of Peace” and everybody clapped. Then we continued marching and singing in the parade, and everybody continued to clap for us, and then they started cheering and yelling at us because of our great march and singing. It was awesome. We all raised our flags really high and we wore our Camp Gilgal t-shirts and colorful red, white and blue bandanas. We were allowed to wear them anywhere we wanted. We finished walking through Columbia and we got a big huge cheer. After the parade we sat down on benches and ate some lunch. We got the first place award for best singing group. The award is on the Camp Gilgal fridge in the dining hall.
Cyndi R., Age 15
Tribe of Manasseh
Everyone knows that Counselor Hunt is played at junior camp, but this year it was played at teen camp. It was a very interesting experience, and it hurt my arms very much. This is because Eureka was convinced she was Gollum and 
obviously, the ring had to be in the opposite direction of the fire pit (where we needed to bring tribe leaders to end the game.) Chickpea was a “hippy-potomus” that was protesting the war; which war, I do not know. Cyclops was a sloth up in a tree that threw twigs and finally threw his watch. We had to carry all three.
The more annoying counselors/animals were…Twister: a mocking-bird; Strings: a copycat; and Reptar: a fainting goat that collapsed at loud noises. Other less annoying ones were Heinz as a bunny that was afraid of open spaces, Tauros as a penguin (don’t ask me), and Sketch who was posing as her 17-year-old cat, Goldstar. I must admit, it was a very nice flashback to junior camp, when Detour had a staring contest with a spider.
Lindsay M., Age 12
Tribe of Manasseh
My name is Lindsay M. and I’m writing about the campfire. 
The campfire is when the whole camp comes down to the campfire spot and we sing worship songs, campfire songs. Staff will share testimonies. During this particular campfire we sang, “Always Forever,” “Father Abraham,” “I am an M” (you spell out “I am an m-e-s-s-i-a-n-i-c jew!), and many other songs. For the testimonies, Squirt shared about how God is faithful all the time, even when we’re in doubt and in sorrow. Then, after Squirt’s testimony, we prayed. Last we had s’mores. The marshmallows were HUGE! Moose roasted his marshmallow perfectly. First, Snapple and Streetlight called tribes down to get their skewers and giant marshmallows, then we went to the fire pit and roasted them. After that, we got chocolate and graham crackers. And that was the end of the first campfire at camp.
Leele S., Age 12
Tribe of Judah
Teen camp Scream-O was awesome. It was my first time playing, and I got scared by Heinz and Ana because they were so competitive. They rolled the dice so slowly, but yelled if you weren’t moving fast.
The game is stressful but fun. The point of the game is to get rid of all your numbers. You have a partner, and you play against the other team. You roll the dice, 
and whatever number comes up, you flip that number card over. If you roll the same number twice, then your partner (if he or she hasn’t rolled it yet,) flips over their number card. If your partner already has it flipped, you pass the dice to the other team. The moment both team members have all their cards flipped over, you both shout “Scream-O!” If your group hasn’t finished the game, you add up the total number of points left and whoever’s is lower gets to move up a table toward the number one spot.
The game is very chaotic, fast, and if you are slow then you are ALWAYS yelled at. When I played Scream-O I enjoyed it very much. I got very into the game and screamed, but NEVER as loud as Ana and Heinz – they almost killed people! But don’t get offended – it’s only a game!
Isaac H., Age 10
Tribe of Judah
It’s near the end of FOB (Flat On Bunk) time. Then you hear a TWEEEEET!! Immediately, moods change: It’s free time!
Free time is the part of camp that lets you do about anything you want to. Feelin’ competitive? March right up to carpetball. You can also play basketball and ping-pong. If the summer heat is too hard on you, take a ride on the wet slide and jump in the pool. (Watch out for the five-foot deep end, Oy Vey!) And when you feel like not doing anything, you can draw. There’s even a tree you can climb up that’s become a camp hotspot.
To me, free time is the best part of camp. I usually try to have the most fun I can have. The tree is where I spend my free time. I stayed there last year, too.
FREE TIME FOR ALL!!!
Esther C., Age 15 
Tribe of Dan
On Wednesday, we went camping. The car ride was really long, but really fun. When we got to the campsite, it was pouring rain outside so we had a dance party in our van. After the rain stopped, we put up all the tents and played mafia before dinner. Later, after dinner, we all had s’mores, and then a campfire, and then we went to bed. In the middle of the night, Dana and I woke up with our tent in our faces and since it had rained about three times that day, the tent was wet. We heard all the boys outside laughing so we went out in the cold, wet field and found out the boys took down all the girls’ tents as a prank. So we put up our tent and yelled at the boys for a couple minutes because they were standing around telling us to be quiet. I went to my tent after that and tried to go back to sleep. All in all, the campout was a lot of fun, even with the prank.
Isaac H., Age 10
Tribe of Judah
This is the time when all you need is your towel, sunscreen, and swimsuit.
It’s so wet! So cool! So…big! What happens is you leave the Camp Gilgal grounds and go down the hill? You arrive at another campsite. But there’s also a huge pool. And what do you do when you see a pool? Leap, leap, leap!
Then you start to swim. It’s a long distance to the other end, so I like to swim there. Ah, so original, isn’t it? Some people like to play pool basketball, because there’s a basketball net. You can also just do free swim. If you have goggles you can go underwater and watch everybody else swimming.
My favorite thing to do is ‘play shark.’ It doesn’t always work, but what you do is look for someone with their back to you. That’s your ‘victim.’ Then you slowly swim up to them. Finally, when you get close to them, go underwater, then jump up suddenly and yell: “LUNCHTIME!!!” The pool is a wonderful place.
The fish think you taste good!
Sarah M., Age 13
Tribe of Judah
Paintball was awesome! The only downside was getting painful welts on Shabbat. But it was really, really fun being able to go paintballing. The first game we played was some people’s first time playing, but it was still incredibly intense. The second game was very much like the first one. Then we played Capture the Degel. We had to strategize and provide cover for the person trying to capture the actual degel.
Paintball is all about stealth, daring, aim and power. At the end of the activity, there was not one person who had not either shot someone or been shot.
Corey W., Age 9
Tribe of Judah
The campfire was great. We sang songs of praise and we sang happily. 
People told about their backgrounds during the campfire. Even though it was a little chilly we still had a great time talking to and learning about God. I almost fell asleep but luckily I didn’t. They had surprise s’mores for us, the marshmallows were huge and the chocolate was delicious. I like my s’mores light brown – I had two. That was at the end though. Before that, Squirt shared her testimony, then at the men’s campfire we had so much fun. Professor gave us two of his favorite Bible verses: Romans 8:37-38 and Galatians 5:12. All in all, both campfires were a great time to fellowship. The men’s campfire especially was a great way for the men’s side of camp to bond.
Avi S., Age 16
Tribe of Issachar
Archery is fun but there are a few problems. There is a net at the back of the range to keep arrows from going into the woods, but it is thin so arrows pass right through it. There are a lot of arrows lost in the woods behind the range, and when we lose arrows for awhile and then find them again, they are usually either broken, bent or misshapen. The other problem is that the bows aren’t strong enough for me.
There are also good things though. You don’t rip your skin when you shoot – it’s because the bows aren’t too intense, the targets are good, and I once got to shoot three arrows in one shot from the bow. When I shot all three at once, I got them all on the target.
Jacob S., Age 11
Tribe of Dan
Dodge ball was a fun activity. The best players were Diesel, Nacho, Garfield, Simba, and Esquire. Everyone had a good time! Garfield accidentally hit Danny G. in the ear, but he was fine. When I was playing dodge ball, I got probably 5,000,000 people out. When all of the players of dodge ball got a break, everyone ran to the water fountain to get a drink of the nice cold water. When we went back to playing dodge ball, I cried during the whole game because I stubbed my new toe nail into the wall at the dodge ball courts. The person at the dodge ball courts that got out was Elliot. I felt sorry for him. When we were done playing dodge ball we walked up a hill. When I walked up the hill I had Nathan on my back. That was a fun dodge ball game.
Daphne N., Age 12
Tribe of Judah
During camp, we do a lot of camp activities. These activities are always fun, exciting and sometimes very unique and weird. These activities always take place right after breakfast and there are always at least three of them. The choice is always yours on which activity you want to pick, but one of those three activities must be a Bible activity, and that’s also a really good choice.
Some of these awesome activities include Newcomb, How to Be a Supermodel, Kickball, and How to Be Manly (which was for girls only.) Everyone really enjoyed every activity there was, and we all had a great time participating in all of them. Doing these activities gave us campers a big opportunity to bond with other campers and tribe leaders, while having fun at the same time. I really enjoyed the choice of activities this year and I really hope to continue them next year.
Dinah N., Age 10
Tribe of Asher
Carpetball is probably the most fun game in camp. Every day there is a long line of campers waiting to play. It’s so addicting that it is guaranteed that you won’t be able to stop. Sometimes it can get aggressive.
“It’s the funnest game in the world,” said one of the campers.
The game is simple. There is a long table with a hole on each side. One player has to be on both sides. Each player has five balls. There is one gray ball which you have to try to hit the opponent’s balls into the hole.
“It’s really fun,” said an eight year old camper. “You should try it.”
Carpetball takes place outside the dining hall near the pool area. You can play carpetball anytime you have a break or when it’s free time. When you get in a tie with the other player, you have to get three balls and do it again, and if you have another tie again, then you get one ball for each ball.
Rebecca T., Age 13
Tribe of Judah
This year at teen camp we all did a Gilgal tradition. It was called the 2011 
Decathalon* and our team was called Summer Techno Jewstep. We traveled by van to each activity. One of the activities was a donut-eating contest. I ate two and a half! Another event was the one-foot contest. We each had to stand on one foot without falling or putting the second foot on the ground. After 10 minutes, whoever had the most people left on just one foot won. We lost D: One of the other activities was root beer chugging. That was the most painful/disgusting activity because we had to drink sugar-free weight watchers root beer until all 12 cans were empty. After that we had to stack them all up. We lost but there were still other events left to complete. Another activity was making a rap for our team with our team name in it. We lost that one as well. The last two events were making a sombrero out of duct tape in the van, and then catching fireflies. WE TOTALLY WON WITH OUR SOMBRERO. And then we won catching fireflies as well! Even though we lost the decathalon, we all had an awesome time!
*The decathalon actually became a septathalon.
Haneen R., Age 10
Tribe of Asher
On Men’s Day, the ladies go horseback riding. When we got there we 
ate lunch. Then the tribe of Issachar went horseback riding, then the tribe of Naphtali, then Manasseh, then my tribe, Asher. We had lots of fun. Streetlight came with us. We sang worship songs. We were right by a cliff, and it was scary. Then a deer ran right in front of my tribe mate’s horse. We were so scared. When we got back we went to a pretty little creek and next to it was snow. I almost fell in the creek. Then we did zumba on the snow. I love horseback riding. It was sooooo much fun. I can’t wait until next year.
Jacob Z., Age 15
Tribe of Issachar
A few days ago, Levi, the rest of camp and I went white water rafting. It was fun! We had to go for 15 miles, so when we got to the end it felt very nice. A lot of people on my raft went to sleep before the end. The water was cold; I found out by getting pulled in. We were going over level 4 rapids and it was scary when we had to duck down – I thought for sure I would fall out. Our tour guide 
was really cool too. His name was Marty and he had a way with his words, especially when there were a lot of bugs. It was one of my favorite parts of camp, but after the trip, my butt and feet were sore. The whole trip was fun!
White Water Rafting
Ketzia B., Age 13
Tribe of Judah
Hey! My name is Ketzia and I am going to tell you about white water rafting. Every year at teen camp, we go on the same field trip and it’s a white water rafting trip. The night before that, we camp out at a campsite about two hours away from Camp Gilgal. The next day, we drive to the rafting place.
I have to admit that at first I was really scared! I was shaking. When I got on the raft though, it was so much fun! Riding the rapids was so much fun and it was crazy! Paddling was also fun but so exhausting! In the calm water, we “fell out” and went for a swim! It was a totally awesome trip. It was awesome because our raft was great and worked together well. The rapids were so fun and crazy to ride! Swimming in the water was really fun, but the water was really gross. We did this thing called surfing in the raft and we all got so wet! I was so tired that I fell fast asleep when we came back.
Only At Camp Gilgal
Levi H., Age 15
Tribe of Issachar
This was my first year at Camp Gilgal East; usually I go to Midwest. At Midwest, we didn’t do too much pranking, but here, my cabin spent a lot of time planning pranks, preparing for pranks, or doing pranks. The first prank we did was on the night of the big campout. We were planning on dragging the tents around with the girls in them while they slept, but it ended up being impossible due to weight. Instead, I had the idea to take out the girls’ tent stakes and collapse the wet tents on them as they slept.
Monique L., Age 9
Tribe of Naphtali
The Camp Gilgal food is delicious! They have theme nights, and something called cuppage at lunch. Cuppage is where you bang your cup on the table in a loud and fast but orderly way. They 
have delicious spaghetti. They have dessert every day. They also have a salad bar. In the morning they have fruit juice and in the afternoon, fruit punch, and at dinner, there is water. Water is supplied throughout the day. The dining hall is warm. They have special pancakes on Shabbat with strawberries. There are always vegetarian meals, such as PB sandwiches, tofu, salad and veggie burgers for people who want them. You can ask someone to sit with your table. Ewok, Snapple, Moose and Streetlight serve food. We also compliment people, make jokes, or sing to be first to eat. You can always have seconds or thirds if you are still hungry. Meals are so fun that you never want them to end.
Dana C., Age 14
Tribe of Dan
On Shabbat, one of the available activities was High Tea. In this activity, we got dressed up in fancy clothing. We sat around a table with a dressy tablecloth and drank sweet tea with our pinkies up! We also had some cookies, biscotti and chips to nibble on. Every woman there looked dashing and glamorous. We all had a lot of fun fooling and joking around, while talking in funny accents and telling jokes. Fellow campers stopped by our activity to share some food and give their opinions on our activity.
Later in the hour, we were taking pictures and acting silly. Camp Gilgal is a time for all of the campers and staff to grow close to God and learn and grow closer to Him while having so much fun and participating in silly activities. Next time
you go to Gilgal, partake in High Tea and have a blast at all the activities!
Madison H., Age 9
Tribe of Naphtali
The Camp Gilgal store is so fun. There are drinks, candy, toys, and more! There are sodas, AirHeads, candy burgers, teddy bears, toy dogs, wolves, fish, deer, and rocks. There is a bank that you can get your money out of. Streetlight, Moose, and Snapple run the store. Poppins runs the dry goods part of the store for some toys like kites, bows, and ribbons. I bought a bear, some candy, a water gun, and a soda. They sell Twix, Milky Way, the Three Musketeers, M&Ms, big water floaties, water balloons, water guns, bubble blowers, water noodles, water blasters, and girls’ and boys’ toy bags. The Camp Gilgal store was open on Skit Night and they made popcorn. The popcorn was delicious. They have fuzzy wuzzies and popsicles. The store has fudge, rice crispies, peanuts, sunflower seeds, and more food, so please come to Camp Gilgal.
Nastasya P., Age 15
Tribe of Manasseh
So it’s my first and last year of camp because I’m 15 years old. On the way to the campout, I picked the blue 15-passenger van because it’s a cool color and Tauros and Chickpea were in that van. Reptar’s van was the wanna-be party van. They only danced whenever they saw us.
Anyways, in the “Real” party van, we listened to Dubstep and we jammed out to other cool music. And we took like fifty million random pictures. And on the way there we played the waving game.
The REAL Party Van
Masha K., Age 14
Tribe of Dan
You probably read the article by Nastasya. Well, it’s a lie. Strings’ and Reptar’s van was the REAL party van. All the other vans just slept and listened to junk. We listened to awesome music off of Reptar’s iPod the whole way. The music was blasting and we were dancing to cool music. OUR van was the REAL party van. It was really fun.
Don’t believe Nastasya!
Michael K., Age 9
Tribe of Benjamin
At the beginning of mail call everyone is excited. Mail call is when people 
get mail that was sent to them. Snapple and Diesel were running around like crazy. I thought it was really funny. A lot of people got packages and letters. They brought Julia up to the front to spin around when tribe leaders get mail. After that, finally I got mail. I got a letter from my parents and they said that they missed me very much. Also, I got a package that had stuff for Columbia. There were also all sorts of candy. So far I’ve got about four or five cards and one package. When Moose was called on, which happened many times, he sprinted and looked hilarious as he kept almost running into people. A lot of the other campers got mail, too. Some of them got multiple cards and boxes, and some only got one. Sometimes Snapple and Diesel get a little mixed up, because one of the times they called Sarah’s and my name by accident. But altogether, they do a really great job doing mail call. And I’ve enjoyed mail call and hopefully I get more mail next year.
Tatiana P., Age 13
Tribe of Dan
This was my first year at teen camp and it was so fun! One of my favorite activities was the Decathalon. A Decathalon is when you have different activities you drive off-camp to do and you have to try to win as many activities as you can to beat the other team. My team was STB (Shakin’ Turkey Bacon.) The first competition was to find all the letters of the alphabet on the road. Then after that we had a race where we all had to eat at least one doughnut and we lost because of me. Then we had more activities to do, like making a rap with our name in it. Our rap won! We were the best and the other teams stunk! GO SHAKIN’ TURKEY BACON!
Danny G., Age 9
Tribe of Benjamin
I like arts and crafts because you can make lots out of art; like you can make ice cream out of paper. I have been working on a cow. I am making it out of white and black paper. It’s turning out good so far. I also have been working on a mosaic. To make this piece of art I have been cutting pieces of paper to form a peace sign. Then I picked the tiles I needed. After that I stained the frame. And then I glued the tiles down. I waited for the glue to dry overnight. The next day we spread grout over the tiles and then scraped it off. Once I finished scraping all the extra grout off, I sponged it so I can see the tiles. Then I put it on the done table for the tribe leaders to polish them. And then I climbed a tree.
Camp Gilgal Quirks
Kayla H., Age 8
Tribe of Issachar
Our degel was cool, pretty, and lovely to look at. Our tribe’s name is Issachar. Issachar means sun. On the degel the girls in my tribe wrote their names on it. We also put the ocean on it. The paint for the sun was bright yellow, orange, and gold. The ocean was painted blue.
Our degel was white so it looked nice. We had a lot of colors to choose from, but we thought white would look good. It is very beautiful. Every tribe in camp has to pick a tribe name. Each tribe name is one of the tribes of Israel. Issachar was our favorite because we love the sunshine. I help paint the sunrise and the ocean. Our flag is really wonderful to look at. We took it back to our cabin and we take it everywhere with us. It really represents our tribe well.
Cynthia R., Age 13
Tribe of Manasseh
This year at Teen Camp, Austin, Joy and I went to an activity called “How to Be a Hypochondriac with Red Sox.” We thought of symptoms and went through a book that Red Sox got from Speedy. It’s called “The Complete Manual of Things That Might Kill You.” If you have a cough then you might have asbestosis. If your eyes are red then you might have leptospirosis. And if you have discolored feet, then you might have carotenemia. We also made up some diseases. For example, the rapid aging of the nose is tachypaleorhinitis and the slow greening of the ears is bradyavrichlontis. During our stay at Camp Gilgal, Twister contracted tachycubitolysis, which is the rapid destruction of the elbow. Get well soon, Twister!
Abbey M., Age 12
Tribe of Asher
Worship is a time to sing and praise the Lord. Streetlight always leads worship. She has an amazing voice. Some of the songs we sing are: “Always Forever,” “Psalm 23,” “Prince of Peace,” “The Stand,” “Cannons,”
“Inside Out,” “The Happy Song,” “Marvelous Light,” and many more wonderful songs with beautiful meanings. Streetlight plays the acoustic guitar, Simba plays the bass guitar, Professor plays the piano, and I play the frame drum. It’s so beautiful to see everybody participating during that happy time we have with God. I asked some people questions about worship, including Smalls and Hershey to conclude the article.
First, I asked Smalls what her favorite song that we sing during worship was. She replied, “They would have to be Psalm 23 and Always Forever.”
Then I asked Hershey why worship was so special to her. She answered, “Worship is special because I love music, and it’s amazing listening to everyone praise God.”
Micah M., Age 15
Tribe of Issachar
Tribe time was fun this year because we had a tribe of five campers. We went “flower picking” on 
multiple occasions and I picked some flowers. The first time we went I picked a total of 18 flowers. It was very fun. When we got back to camp, we told all the girls that we’d gone flower picking, but they didn’t believe us. The reason why we went out on such an awesome tribe time trip is because we had an epic tribe leader, Cyclops. He is cool and awesome – as are all of the tribe leaders.
By the way: flower picking is actually LAZER TAG.
David S., Age 12
Tribe of Zebulun
Shalom! Hebrew at Camp Gilgal is fun and a good way to learn Hebrew. Our teacher, Freckles, divided the Hebrew class into two sections: Alef and Bet. Hebrew is suitable for people who don’t know any to people who are learning new words and sentences. Alef is for learning the alef-bet and vowels. Bet is for the more experienced. Bet reads about Sherei, the llama. Once during Hebrew, one of Freckles’ friends brought some llamas. He told us about them and we got to pet and feed them. One day, we also watched Shalom Sesame, which is the Hebrew/Israeli version of Sesame Street. It was a movie on Hanukah to help kids learn Hebrew and have fun. It was kind of funny, too. I am really glad that we have Hebrew at camp. This is where I learned my alef-bet and a lot of words.
Hebrew is so fun! Freckles’ Hebrew is helpful. I like to learn it.
Chloe N., Age 15
Tribe of Manasseh
Every year, Camp Gilgal is always the highlight of my summer. I look forward to all the activities, seeing all my friends, and especially reconnecting with God. The reason I say “reconnecting” with God is because throughout this last year, I basically ignored God. I rarely opened my Bible, never prayed, and all I cared about was my social life and friends. I went to a congregation as much as possible, but I never really paid attention and forgot everything I learned. However, this summer, when I came to camp, everything the tribe leaders taught hit me, and I really understood. I learned a lot about Jesus, and to follow God’s path because He does have something planned no matter how shaky your future looks. Also, I learned that we should put aside all worldly values and try to live to please God. I’m positive that this lesson will guide me through life and down God’s path.
Olivia P., Age 11
Tribe of Manasseh
Camp Gilgal’s meal traditions are super fun and interesting at the same time. For example, before every meal all the tribes say something together to declare who goes in first. Also, everyone asks out of cabin staff members to sit with them for the whole meal.
During lunch time, all the tribes sit down and do cuppage. Cuppage is where everyone takes their cups face down and bang it on a table to a beat. The beat gets faster and faster until it’s just a bunch of cups being banged against the table.
Before every meal, we always say the kiddush, the hamotzi, and we pray. Also, after every dinner, Snapple and Diesel yell…. MAIL CALL!!! We have a spinner that does a special spin for the staff when they have mail. The campers do a certain clap for other campers when they get mail.
After all the normal mail is done being called we have BONUS ROUND! Bonus round is like packages and packets. Those are Camp Gilgal’s meal traditions.
Violetta M., Age 15
Tribe of Manasseh
My last year of teen camp was awesome. We’ve done so many things…we went to so many places: the campout, the septathalon, paintball, white water rafting, and hiking. It was so much fun and I had the best last year of teen camp ever! I will most definitely miss everyone. Knowing everyone here makes it feel like a second home. We have people from everywhere: New York, Florida, New Jersey, Michigan, and Canada. It’s really cool to see people from half way across the country come to this amazing camp. And hopefully people will still be coming =D
I’ll miss everyone!
Josh L., Age 10
Tribe of Judah
Every night after dinner everyone goes back to their cabin and gets ready for showering and brushing their teeth. Everyone gets back to the cabin and we all get ready for lights out. Everybody gets in bed for tribe devotionals. Some are interesting and some are boring. 
Some are long and some are short. Some are fun and some are not. Sometimes people fall asleep. Sometimes they happen late and have to be short. If they start early we can have long ones and sometimes they can be fun.
Sometimes we have games at night and can’t do devotionals. After the devotionals we pray.
Everyone prays to learn more about God and for everyone to have good health.
The devotionals help me learn more about God. Some of the devotionals talked about how God is faithful and provides for us when we need. It also tells me how to pray. The devotionals make me feel better and closer to God.
Rena B., Age 15
Tribe of Manasseh
There are many rules to Strudel. The first is if Thou has nothing Strudel to say, don’t say Strudel at all. The second is Thou shall not eat from The Strudel of Knowledge. The third is Thou shall only say “Strudel” five times a day. The fourth is Thou is allowed to say “Strudel” more than five times a day if Thou are explaining the Strudel Commandments. The fifth commandment is Thou is only allowed to explain The Strudel Commandments if Thou are Tauros or Cyclops. The sixth is Thou shall keep the Strudel Passover holy. The seventh rule is if you say “Strudel” more than five times a day, Thou shall feel the wrath of The Strudel Creator. The eighth is that the origin of Strudel is a mystery. The ninth is that Strudel doesn’t need a ninth commandment.
The final commandment is Strudel is Strudel.
LaTanya H., Age 11
Tribe of Asher
Everyone loves FOB except for most of the campers. But one day the campers of Asher had a lot of fun during FOB. (We messed around a lot.) Waffles was trying to sleep, but she couldn’t because of us. While Haneen was asleep, Abbey started smacking her stuffed rabbit. Haneen wouldn’t wake up so we decided to have fun with that. We took a picture of her and some parts of our cabin. Then all of a sudden Waffles got up and said, “You guys HAVE to be quiet so I can SLEEP!” So we were quiet… for about a minute. (Just in case you were wondering, Smalls was asleep the WHOLE time.) I (LaTanya) got down from my bunk bed to get my water bottle because I was coughing. So I opened it and started drinking… then when I wasn’t paying attention I spilled the water all over me! (It was COLD.) Those were some things that happened during Asher’s FOB (not really flat on bunk).
Hannah D., Age 13
Tribe of Judah
Tabernacle is awesome! It’s a time every day just before dinner when we can be with God. I really enjoy the worship. I love the messages that Twister has been giving too. We’ve been going through the book of Mark.
I never realized how truly human Jesus was. This book was written by one of Y’shua’s close friends. Y’shua made a HUGE sacrifice for us. He healed so many people and I truly learned the concept of “The first shall be last and the last shall be first.” Tabernacle is an amazing part of camp. Whoopie!
Haneen R., Age 10
Tribe of Asher
Tabernacle is something we do every morning. First in Tabernacle is worship, beautifully done by Streetlight playing guitar and singing, and Simba playing guitar and singing. Also, my tribe mate, Abbey, plays the drums. Professor plays the piano as well. We usually sing one of these songs: “The Happy Song,” “Psalm 23,” “Always Forever,” “Prince of Peace,” and “Every Move I Make.” After worship we say the Shema. Then Moose comes up and gives us a very interesting, funny but serious Bible lesson. Yesterday we talked about creation. Today we learned about Adam and Eve from Genesis. This year’s theme is God’s faithfulness from generation to generation. After Moose gives a Bible lesson we are excused to then have Hebrew and craft.
Liza C., Age 14
Tribe of Judah
Teen camp is a place where you can have a lot of fun but still be in a 
godly environment and grow in your relationship with Him. A normally scheduled day at teen camp would go like this: lineup, breakfast, three activities in the morning. Then lunch, swimming, tribe time, chill time, dinner, some mystery activity, then campfire, devotions and lights out. Tribe time is when you get to spend time with only your cabin and in chill time you can hang out with other cabins. During the campfire, we sing and a staff person gives a sort of message. This happens every night.
Our irregular days, however, were so much different. One day, we went out on a campout after lunch. The next day, we went white water rafting for most of the day. When we were camping, the boys pranked us by taking the poles out of our tents. My tent, however, did not get touched. After the rafting trip, we went back to camp, watched a movie, and went to sleep. The next day was Friday, the night of our Shabbat service.
All in all, teen camp was, as Tauros would say, “Totally Strudel!”
The Creative Side of Gilgal
Dani R., Age 13
Tribe of Dan
Going to camp for the first time can be nerve-wracking for some, but overwhelmingly exciting for others. For me, it was a mixture of both. Since camp is super far from where I live, being away from my parents for the first time was something I wasn’t sure how to feel about. But then again, I thought and still think it’s awesome to be able to meet a whole new group of believers that are also Jewish!
At camp we do awesome activities that make Camp Gilgal super unique. I would never have thought you could learn to be manly and learn about Messianic prophecy all in two hours! At teen camp, we get a lot of freedom, and it makes me feel trusted. The people you meet here are amazing and I love spending time with them. On top of that, we can always count on an uber good meal. One of the best parts of camp though, is being able to get closer to God through it all.
Mekerah P., Age 9
Tribe of Naphtali
I looked around. Was someone saying my name? It was coming from the woods. I listened very carefully, but it was only the wind in the trees. Then I saw something. Was that a cow? It wasn’t moving, so maybe it was dead. I went to get my tribe leader, and she said I could go look at it if she was with me. When I got there it looked like a sink without a faucet. I was about to head back to my cabin when something else caught my eye. It looked like a roof. I was about to go explore it when the lunch whistle blew. After lunch and FOB (Flat On Bunk), I finally got to explore it. Turns out it was a storage shed filled with hay and logs, but it still was a good adventure!
Masha K., Age 14
Tribe of Dan
This year at teen camp we had FOB. FOB stands for Flat On Bunk. It’s usually in the middle of the day when all the campers and staff have nap time. Sometimes campers aren’t tired during FOB so they can write letters or do something else as long as they stay in bed and stay quiet. We don’t usually have FOB during 
teen camp because it’s more of a junior camp thing, but this year everyone was really tired so we did it once on Saturday. FOB usually lasts for an hour at junior camp, and happens after lunch and swimming. At teen camp, it was about an hour after lunch and Gilgal Gazette time. The junior campers don’t appreciate FOB but once it’s gone, they’ll want it back. During junior camp I thought FOB was boring and a waste of time. Now I still think it’s boring, but I understand that some campers really need it.
Julia K, Age 12
Tribe of Simeon
Thunder and lightning,
It can be very frightening.
The rain pouring down,
Till it hits the ground.
Though we try to keep dry,
Rain makes it look like we cry
From the ground steam does rise.
And a Taco Bell surprise,
Making us well fed
Then we cozy up in our bed.
Ana G., Age 14
Tribe of Dan
Shabbat is an awesome time of the week because it is a time for us to refocus ourselves and focus fully on God. We also have the boys serve the girls water during dinner and clean the tables. It’s a time we can all relax and take it easy. The girls also get to take shower and wear skirts and do our hair in pretty ways. After dinner, we have a worship service when we do liturgy, which is another way we can grow closer to God. After the liturgy, Twister shared a Shabbat message with us. This year, it was from the book of Mark. Before the end of Shabbat, we walked up to Sunset (our campfire ring) and Twister told us to contemplate what Jesus had to do to die for us. Once we were at the top of Sunset, we prayed and the staff said the Aaronic Benediction so that we could go in peace.
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
He is Faithful to All Generations
(Psalm 145:13)
“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!
Tribes:
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!
Haiku
By Isaac Y., Age 12
Tribe of Zebulun
Camp Gilgal yeah!
We get to learn about God!
The fun camp for Jews!
Interviews and Family
Called to Serve
(Mark 10:45)
“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!
Campers:
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
Out-of-Cabin Staff:
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.
Our Camp Gilgal Family
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.
Tribes of Gilgal
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!
Adventures and Games!
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.
Tribe of Dan Bio #2
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.
Issachar’s Tribe Time
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.
Fun Days
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!
Only At Camp Gilgal
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.
Crazy Nights
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!
Only at Camp Gilgal
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.
The Creative Side of Gilgal
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