Once a part of the Camp Gilgal family, always a part of the Camp Gilgal family.
“Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to His voice, and hold fast to Him.”
The Gilgal Gazette is published by Camp Gilgal campers for Camp Gilgal campers and their families and friends!
Tribe of Benjamin: Carrie-Fu M., Claire C., Elizabeth R., Erica B., Persaeus B., Sophia M., Waffles, Galaxy
Tribe of Judah: Maddie H., Noa B., Shannon O., Zemeira W., Zoe N., Acorn, Whimzy
Tribe of Zebulun: Elizabeth K., Lizzy N., Monique L., Sarai M., Taliah S., Nike, Vintage
Tribe of Manasseh: Dinah N., Emmalee S., Haneen R., LaTanya H., Mia C., Yamen L., Sauté, Hershey
Tribe of Simeon: Boaz B., David R., Isaiah L., Nathan B., Sasha S., J-Box, Ewok
Tribe of Ephraim: Corey W., Danny G., Elijah Y., Josiah C., Michael K., Maverick, Yamaha
Tribe of Dan: Daniel P., Emmanuel R., Isaac H., Josh L., Reuven R., Sam F., Simba, Professor
Tribe of Gad: Elliot K., Isaac J., Jacob S., Jaden W., Jeremiah H., Nathan P., Nacho, Java
Out-of-cabin staff: Mr. Tumnus, Snapple, Bazooka, Sherbert, Sonic, Onyx, Poppins, Streetlight, Moose
Guests: Swedey, Hoops, Esquire, Sparkler
Corey W., Age 10
Tribe of Ephraim
When you decorate the flag you put paint and glitter and you get a cool tribe name. And you get to help pick the flag color and flag name. It is fun. You can have the bull, snakes, grapes, wolves. Then you let it dry. The next day they give it to you. You take it to the cabin. You take it with you to every meal. Everyone writes their name and tribe name in Hebrew. You take the flags to Tabernacle, too! We also march in the Fourth of July Parade with our degelim. Everyone in Columbia sees our beautiful flags. The tribe of Ephraim has a bull with fire in its eyes on a white background. It has a golden ring in its nose and red horns. Every tribe writes “Camp Gilgal 2012” on their flag. At the end of the year the camper of the year gets to take their degel home. Everyone always wants to carry their tribe’s degel around to meals and Tabernacle.
Taliah S., Age 11
Tribe of Zebulun
If you are looking for a camp that is the most fun, the best, or the most awesome camp ever, come to Camp Gilgal! We have everything from campfire, to games, to craft. I don’t think I have ever met an
yone or ever will meet anyone who hates or does not like camp.
Not only do we have crazy activities at this camp, we also have Hebrew, devotions, and Tabernacle. This camp is sponsored by Jews for Jesus, so we also want to focus on learning more about God, and what it means to be believers in Y’shua. In Tabernacle we sing and worship, then one of the out-of-cabin staff will give a short message. For devotions, every night we have a short talk and pray together as a tribe. Every year at camp we also have Hebrew class and learn how to say, write and chant things in Hebrew.
We also have awesome games at camp. The best one (I think) is M.I. or Mission Impossible. This is a night game, and you have to try to find all the clues, and if you get spotted by the staff you are out. Everybody loves this game because right when you are about to go to bed, a van with Mission Impossible music drives through camp, and nobody knows when it is going to be.
As you can see, everything here is awesome, and if you are looking for an amazing camp, Camp Gilgal is the way to go!
Jaden W., Age 12
Tribe of Gad
Shabbat was really cool. Me, Nathan, Noa, and Mia read Bible verses and did blessings. First we worshiped and said the Sh’ma afterwards. Before we worshiped we ate dinner, but it wasn’t an ordinary dinner. We dress up for Shabbat and are more orderly about what we do. Onyx spoke and sang the Aaronic benediction. Sherbert shared her testimony. Moose read Colossians 3:12-14: “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive one another if any of you has a grievance against someone. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.”
Emmalee S., Age 11
Tribe of Manasseh
This year in the Oylimpics, Maverick dressed up as Moses and he said, “Let my people go.” We teamed up with a men’s tribe and competed in the Oylimpics, which involved obstacles based off the ten plagues. My team paired up with Simeon and our team’s name was Simenasseh. We won because we were the only tribe that did the leap frog right. Some of the obstacles wer
e shaking tic tacs out of the container, throwing cheese balls on a shaving cream head, eating a bucket of popcorn, and milking a plastic glove like an udder. Also there was the sit-on-the-balloon relay race, filling half a cup with red water with straws, swatting fake bugs with a fly swatter, blindfolding a tribe leader and screaming directions until they got to Moses, and sliding on the slip’n’slide. It is super messy but really fun. My favorite part was when I went on the slip’n’slide because there were bubbles that make you go fast. The Oylimpics was really fun and I fully enjoyed it.
Elliot K., Age 12
Tribe of Gad
Just as I am in the middle of prayer, Dr. Root
Canal knocks on the door then comes in. He checks our teeth, but before that we say, “Once again you interrupted Elliot.” Then he says, “Sorry,” or, “Wow, again.” We think he’s doing it on purpose. While he is checking our teeth, Jacob hides his gum in his mouth. Before he checks Isaac’s mouth, Isaac literally drinks Scope mouthwash. At one time, I lost my toothbrush and used mouthwash. One day, Jaden had his jawbreaker out. Another day he did not even brush his teeth. Once Nathan walked out the door saying, “I need to brush my teeth.” Dr. Root Canal has really awesome and huge glasses and a toothbrush. He has a coat and this untied tie that he always wears. You have to brush your teeth and then make it really white with nothing in your mouth. It has to be pearly white and minty fresh. If it is not any of those then you lose points. You can get a maximum of 100 points. It is kinda easy to get the maximum points because all you have to do is brush your teeth every day and then it will be as easy as pie, if you have a toothbrush. We always say our tribe leaders have bad teeth. No matter what you should brush your teeth.
Dinah N., Age 11
Tribe of Manasseh
Did 
you ever want to learn a different language? Camp Gilgal has Hebrew class. You can learn the alphabet and vowels, or if you are more advanced you can learn phrases. There are two groups: Team Alef which is for beginners, and Team Bet which is for more advanced. If you are in Team Alef and if it is too easy, you could switch classes to Team Bet. The teacher is Mr. Tumnus. He grew up in Israel so he knows how to speak and write in Hebrew. In the class you can write in your own ABC Hebrew book. You can write the alphabet or phrases in the book. So when you go home you can show your family what you learned. Then maybe you can go to Israel. Mr. Tumnus teaches the alphabet song and how to greet people and have conversations. You also learn how to write in Hebrew. Hebrew is after Tabernacle or arts and crafts, depending on which class you are in. It takes place in the Tabernacle area. It is every day except on Saturday, which is the Sabbath. Sometimes we might go horseback riding so we can’t do Hebrew. In Hebrew Mr. Tumnus sometimes gives out snacks like sunflower seeds. It’s really fun.
Sarai M., age 11
Tribe of Zebulun
After lunch comes nap time (FOB which means Flat On Bunk), unless it is Lady’s Day. On Lady’s Day FOB is more like fun on bunk. On that day most of the girls did each other’s hair, make up, nails, and designed each other’s outfits for the rest of the day. Sadly, there is only one Lady’s Day. So on most days it is regular FOB. FOB is one hour of nap time. In my cabin we made up six rules about FOB:
#1 No camper may ever look forward to FOB
#2 No camper may sleep during FOB
#3 No camper may speak during FOB
#4 You may never wake up counselors during FOB
#5 You must be flat on your bunk during FOB
#6 If it is fun, it is not FOB.
So these are our six rules of FOB in which we try our best to follow.
David R., age 10
Tribe of Simeon
Devotions are more like a story before you go to sleep. My favorite part of devotions is it helps me go to sleep. One night during devotions I heard “iron sharpens iron.” God speaks to us through the Bible and He speaks through parables. The meaning of iron sharpens iron is if you’re a believer in Y’shua your life could help someone else’s faith in Y’shua. Last night in devotions we talked about training; if a child is trained in something when he grows old he will never depart from that training. The meaning of the parable is when a child is still young he should train well so that child does not forget what he was taught. I really like devotion time with my tribe because I learn a lot about God.
Isaac H., Age 11
Tribe of Dan
Ah, your tribe just got picked by out-of-cabin staff to go into the dining hall for lunch. Nourishment awaits!! Could it be burgers? Noodles? Tacos? Pizza??! These thoughts make you relaxed and hungry at the same time. All r
uined when you enter the dining hall: BONKITTY BONKITTY BONKITTY! Ear shattering sounds of not one, but ALL the plastic cups bashing into wooden tables. Most people think it’s quite the outrage. But have no worries, it is simply the ancient tradition of CUPPAGE! Everyone at lunch time bangs their cups on the table top. This will not last all lunch time though. How could we eat lunch while smashing cups? It all ends when the out of cabin staff raises their hands and swipes it down. Cuppage ends, then we eat. Some probably wish cuppage never existed. Even I have. But always remember: IF THERE AIN’T NO CUPPAGE, THERE AIN’T NO CAMP GILGAL!!!
Emmalee S., Age 11
Tribe of Manasseh 
Mail call usually happens around the end of dinner. It starts with Snapple, Bazooka, and Maverick running from the deck screaming “Mail call,” carrying a box of mail and packages from your friends and family. When they run through the doors screaming, a roar breaks out, then Snapple raises her hand and slices it down to stop the screams. There is always a spinner who does a spin when a tribe leader is called. It is exciting to get your name called. There is one special night where you sing or dance for your mail. Sing and Dance for Your Mail Night is when music plays and if you get called you can either sing or dance for your mail. This year, I sang the macarena and I got my mail. Then I got called again! But you don’t have to sing or dance if you’re called again. Mail call is super fun!
Sarai M., Age 11
Tribe of Zebulun
Once after FOB we all came down for free time. Before we had really started Streetlight called us all together for lost and found. Before she finished, “It is way too hot, let’s go inside to cool off.” When we went in there was a 20-foot clean gutter of ice cream sundae. In the ice cream sundae there were strawberries, chocolate, and vanilla ice cream with cherries, sprinkles, chocolate bits, chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and who knows what else! It was really good, especially on a hot summer afternoon. Some people got so much that it towered over the rim of their bowls and drenched the floor. In my ice cream I had chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry ice cream with sprinkles and nuts. I think my favorite part of my ice cream sundae was the nuts.
Haneen R., Age 12
Tribe of Mannaseh
Morty and Minerva are the
Camp Gilgal Cabin Inspectors. Every day all of the tribes have to make their cabins spotless clean! If a shoe or hair brush is askew, you receive an infraction. An infraction is when five points are deducted. You start off with 100 points each day. A minor infraction deducts five points and each major deduction is ten points. Major infractions rarely happen unless you do a horrible job cleaning. Morty and Minerva are supposed to be an old Jewish couple, but they are really Streetlight and Sonic. They are really funny. You can also get an infraction just for having a spot of dirt on the cabin floor or if a bag is unzipped. In case you wanted to know, the unzipped bag infraction is known at camp as “open bag syndrome.” Another thing that is really funny is Morty has a hunchback and wears ugly old man’s glasses. Minerva has an ugly dress, a curler in her hair, and an annoying voice. It is important to remember as a camper that it is possible to nail the cabin inspection. If your cabin nails it that means there were no infractions in the inspection.
Mia C., Age 12
Tribe of Manasseh
Superhero Night is a Camp Gilg
al tradition. It’s when every tribe dresses up as superheroes! This allows people to be creative and make up awesome costumes and a phrase for line-up. Other tribes did “Super Sheep,” “Super Stars,” and more. Our theme was “Super Seniors.” We all dressed up as seniors, and practiced our “accents.” For line-up, we each said something funny. Some said random stuff like “I love grapes,” Or “Where’s Lenny?” Some of us pretended to be forgetful or totally unaware of the conversation, which was our “Super Chant.” Then altogether, we shakily put our arms up and said, “Go, Super Seniors!” I really got into it and put baby powder in my hair to make it gray. Our leaders, Hershey and Sauté, bought hair curlers for us to wear. Eventually, that caused a lot of ripping, frustration and many tangles and split ends. While we were still in costume, we took a tribe photo, trying to look as old and hunched over as possible.
Sam F., Age 10
Tribe of Dan
Skit Night is so much fun! You get to see what all the tribes come up with. My tribe (Dan) did the Ten Commandments. Manasseh did a Do Not Steal message. Zebul
un did a magic carpet ride through Moses’ life. Benjamin described and acted out 1 Timothy 4:12. Judah did people from the future and Bible times. Simeon did pantomime. Ephraim did a detective story. Gad did a puppet show. Skit Night was very funny. You try to get more points for Tribe of the Year. In the intermission you could buy refreshments from the Gilgal Store. They sell throwback sodas made with real sugar and good candy. When we got there we picked who would go first out of a hat. We also got to bring our sleeping bags and pillows. Morty and Minerva would play a song on the piano and did funny stuff and the judges would give our points at the end. Then we watched part of a movie with Waffles in it when she was little. It was very fun and encouraging to watch all the skits and hear different spiritual messages from all the tribes.
Shannon O., Age 10
Tribe of Judah
“Hey, kids, who wants to know what tonight’s theme is?” asked Streetlight. “What?” “It’s Stop and Go Night!” “Yay!” the kids shouted. Stop and Go Night is when Streetlight blows her whistle at dinner, and if you don’t freeze, no matter what you’re doing, you get a utensil taken away from you! One time, I was moving and Streetlight didn’t even notice me! One of the tribe leaders even randomly broke into song. When Streetlight blew her whistle, the tribe leader “sang” the new version of “If you take away my fork, you take away the biggest part of me,” but he got his knife taken away instead. Usually, the boys want to get their utensils taken away. Streetlight kept blowing the whistle so much and so fast that we didn’t know if it was stop or go. “This is the funnest night ever!”
All this news is weird (and funny), but it’s Stop and Go Night. It’s the way it is. Until next time, for those of you who understood what I’m saying, this was Stop and Go Night.
Isaiah L., Age 9
Tribe of Simeon
On Monday, July 2nd, we went to an awesome creek. First we went in 
back of the dining hall, then we went on the rough path to the creek. When we got there, we sang the Kiddush and Ha-Motzi, then some of the staff went back to get the dinner. For dinner we had sandwiches. While we were eating some people tried to fish but they didn’t succeed. Some dropped food in for the fish to eat. There were these little crawdads Danny caught in a water bottle but in the end they let them go.
Jaden says his favorite part was when he saw Daniel reach under the algae and pull out a little crawdad. There were a lot of water insects and fish. It was a fun time and I enjoyed it.
Isaac H., Age 11
Tribe of Dan
It hits everyone at random. It cannot be foreseen. But all must be prepared when Streetlight announces it’s………….. FEED YOUR FRIEND NIGHT!! During this meal, you must find a friend, get your food, and begin feeding your friend. Everything on your plate must be fed to you by the friend. But not everything must be eaten. A good strategy is to switch the plate with your food with your friend’s plate, so when you reach to get some food, it’ll be the friend’s food, and you can feed them. Take turns and there will be no mess. On each turn, ask your friend what food he would like. He or she will say what their choice is. Proceed by feeding them what they request. Don’t put too much or too little on your spoon; the food should actually go into your friend’s mouth. While all solid food must be fed by your friend, it is perfectly fine to drink from your own cup. When all your food is gone, you may put away your dishes. This meal is over, and you can look forward to your next great activities. Feed Your Friend Night is one of the most fun but silliest parts of camp.
LaTanya H., Age 12
Tribe of Manasseh
Mission Impossible is a fan-favorite at Camp Gilgal. Kids love the darkness and the intenseness. One of the oldest campers, Mia, says, “MI is a lot of fun with stealth.” MI is a mission that can be impossible. Tribes have to go from clue to clue. Doesn’t that sound easy? Well, it’s not. Out-of-cabin staff have flashlights and try to catch you. When you get caught you have to go back to your cabin, no matter where you are.
Every year MI is a big, fun surprise. This year the lights went out when we were in our cabins. One camper, Jeremiah, says, “When the lights went out, my cabin went crazy!” I agree, cabins went ballistic. Playing the game is absolutely so much fun. You have to roll, slide, and drop down hills or surfaces.
This year the youngest girls cabin, Benjamin, won. Even though other tribes didn’t win, they still go to have fun!
Madison H., Age 10
Tribe of Judah
O
ne day at camp, Streetlight announced that it was Animal Night. All of us went crazy. Zemeira said, “I wanted to be a chinchilla.” Zoe said “that I wanted to be a wolf.” Shannon was a sheep, but she wanted to be a raccoon. All the people I’ve asked are in my tribe. I wanted to be a tiger. But instead our tribe leader Acorn had a glue gun so she glued cotton balls to our white shirts so that we would look like sheep. Then we went knocking on other cabin doors because we needed to borrow some black pants. After that we ran down the hill and lined up for diner and when they called us we said, “We feel a little sheepish.” Then we took pictures. And finally, we got to go to dinner. Animal Night was awesome!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Claire C., Age 7
Tribe of Benjamin
The campfire I liked because… The s’mores were gooey and hot and they tasted awesome. And the flames looked like they were dancing tall and wide and pretty. And Onyx said some things about himself and did a long testimony and it was amazing. And the moon was glittering everywhere I looked. Also the staff sang beautiful songs about the Bible, God, Jesus and good an
d bad. Also when we came to the campfire I got a piggy back ride, and after that I sat down on the campfire benches. Taliah came up to the front of the patio and sang another song from the East Coast Camp Gilgal called Hine Ma Tov with Streetlight. It was a camp song in Hebrew. Every time we repeated the song it got faster and faster. We lastly stood up to sing more songs and pray. Then everyone was excited from having s’mores and really tired, too. So we finally went up to our cabins as a tribe and fell asleep.
Daniel P., Age 10
Tribe of Dan
Hi, my name is Daniel. The night swim is a great event and thing to do on the Fourth of July. We played Moby Dick and basketball. But to all I must advise: get Simba or Professor to ride on. It was a really refreshing time because the day was hot and long. I was playing Leech and it was a really fun day. Leech is where you hang onto someone like Simba – he’s fun. I like to play Leech and a football game. We were playing knock out, but soon we had a lot of fun and there are a lot of kids and I mean a LOT OF KIDS! That swim was great and I am really enjoying my first year of camp with the tribe of Dan. I can’t wait for next year!
Josh L., Age 11
Tribe of Dan
After Streetlight announces it is Utensil Night everyone gathers in the dining hall. Onyx brings out a big pot full of random utensils, and everyone reaches in and grabs a utensil without look
ing. I see some people getting spatulas, big spoons, slotted spoons, whisks, etc. The lucky people get plastic forks. Isaiah says he got a big spatula with a wooden handle and had a really hard time eating with it. He says he scooped the food up and ate off the spatula. Sam says he got a spatula. Also he says he had an easy time eating. He scooped up the food and sucked it off. I got a small spoon and had a hard time eating. For dessert there is chocolate cake that is really good. The only bad thing is if you have a hard-to-eat utensil. Utensil Night can be hard, messy and sticky, but there is no more fun than having to eat with a whisk. The End.
Sasha S., Age 8
Tribe of Simeon
The moon was very bright when we went stargazing. We all got our sleeping bags and we went to the black top. We saw Saturn, and Mars, and the moon, and the Big Dipper. We also saw the Little Dipper and the North Star. We were talking about the nebulas, where stars are born and how they are made out of gas. Some stars are hot and some are cool. Some stars are old and some are young. We also learned that our sun came from a nebula. We had lots of sun. I saw a bat gliding through the sky. We saw lots of stars and all of us were lying next to friends, so we were not afraid of the dark. We talked about the black holes and how supernovas form. We also learned that no matter how big the universe is God is with us, no matter what. I had lots of fun doing stargazing at Camp Gilgal.
Isaiah L., Age 9
Tribe of Simeon
The first thing we did was split up the teams. The boy campe
rs grouped up with the girl tribe leaders and the girl campers with the men tribe leaders. Next we made the groups. The people who were defense guarded the jail and the degel (flag). The offense went to the enemy’s side to get the degel or free people from jail. Josh said his favorite part was chasing the boy tribe leaders.
David’s favorite part was trying to help the offense find the flag by screaming in the jail. My favorite part was when I was behind enemy lines. Onyx found us and we ran in the paintball course jumping over rocks and logs and then we slid under the net and lost him! Then I really had to go to the bathroom so I let myself get caught. All of the people who escorted me didn’t know that I wasn’t the one. As soon as one of our people got in the flag circle the other team won.
Danny G., Age 10
Tribe of Ephraim
I am
going to tell you about the men’s campfire. It was so funny because I fell asleep. I helped start the fire, and it was pretty cool. I like when we worship God. I thought we were going to make s’mores again, but we didn’t. I liked when we all sat down on top of the tables. It was funny when I fell on the floor. Sonic and Maverick were the speakers. It was the best campfire I have ever had. The fire was pretty big. I hope this year we make a big fire. Well, I think you should come to campfire. It is very fun. I hope we have another men’s campfire. Well, now you know about the men’s campfire.
Carrie M., Age 8
Tribe of Benjamin
I woke up really early for the trip on Sunday. We wen
t to pick up the vans and drove to pick up the kids, five girls, and so many boys!
It was quiet. We played music. I didn’t know the song, but I liked the music.
I liked the view! But we had to stop a lot because the boys had to go to the bathroom!!!
Then we got to eat at McDonalds! I got chicken nuggets and a milkshake.
I liked to sit in the back because it’s like a roller coaster. It’s so bumpy! 😉 But then I got a headache from reading in the van. I fell asleep for an hour or so. I woke up by someone kicking me. When we got there, there were people pounding on the window to welcome us.
Nathan P., Age 12
Tribe of Gad
M
orty and Minerva helped teach us how to make the challah. I learned how to braid challah from Jeremiah. The challah tasted pretty good for me making it. We learned why we braid challah. It stands for justice, peace, and love. We added poppy seeds to our challah to make it taste and look nice. They gave us like 30 or 20 minutes to make our challah. Some people tried to write their names with food coloring. It didn’t work out that well, so they had a blob of food coloring on it. Most people wrote their names on the side of the wax paper that we had to put challah on. We put the challah on the trays that they gave us and we put them on it.
Erica B., Age 8
Tribe of Benjamin
My first day of camp was greeted by my tribe leaders. When I got to my cabin, everyone in my tribe was making name tags. I made a name tag, too. I wrote my name in turquoise because it is my favorite color. After, we heard the whistle blow. That meant it was dinner time. My tribe and I all walked really fast down the hill together. We sat down as tribes and found out it was Utensil Night! My utensil was a pie-server. A girl in my tribe named Elizabeth got tongs. I could barely eat anything with the pie cutter so I asked for another utensil. This was my first time at summer camp and I was already having so much fun. After dinner, all the tribes made their degelim (flags). We had to compete for the aqua degel and we got it! Benjamin’s symbol is a wolf. We all helped make the background, and Sophia drew the wolf. I drew a tree next to the wolf but that’s not the end of it yet. After we made our degel, we went back to our cabins and got our toothbrushes, toothpaste, and went to bed.
The end
Jeremiah H., Age 12
Tribe of Gad
The Fourth of July parade had gone as planned for Camp Gilgal. We had won the award for “Best Marching Group” in Columbia’s Glorious Fourth of July Parade once again. Gilgal was singing until the
ir voices were completely gone from worshiping the Lord. The songs that we had sung were “The Happy Song” and the chorus and bridge of “Our God.”
Many other marching groups were also competing in the parade to win best marching group for the parade. After the march, the camp got a break and ate lunch in the SHADE!!
Once we ate lunch, we went out to explore and enjoy Columbia. Once our freedom was up, we took our group picture and went back to camp.
Monique L., Age 10
Tribe of Zebulun
Carpetball is awesome! Carpetball is a rectangular table, with rims and a drop off on both sides. There are five pool balls on each side and one ball that is used to knock the other balls off the table. How you play is you set up your pool balls on the table in any order that pleases you, and then take the other ball and try to knock the opponent’s balls off the table by rolling the ball across the table. In the beginning when you start, you are supposed to set up your balls, but after that you aren’t allowed to move your balls, unless you hit your own ball. Then you can only move it back to where it was before.
Noa thinks carpetball is a really fun game. She also thinks that the rules are fair and should be followed. Carpetball is truly awesome!
Zemeira W., Age 10
Tribe of Judah
We were lining up and this music just started blasting our ears out, and everyone started yelling, “It’s Ladies Day!” It was lunch time so we went in to the dining hall. For lunch we had pizza and the boys would just walk in for fun. Every time they walked in we would sing, “Hit the Road, Jack.” On Men’s Day, we never go in to the dining hall, we just get ready and go.
Now back to Ladies Day. After lunch we had FOB, which means “Flat On Bunk.” But this FOB was different. We didn’t have to be flat on our bunk
s, so I said that it was “Fun On Bunk,” and we got to be on each other’s bunks. We ate candy and talked all FOB until the whistle blew. Then we had free time. I mostly swam. This year our theme was colors. I went on a hike to find things to make a wreath. It was so calm without the boys and I loved it. There were no rude jokes, less bad grammar, and just girls. Who wouldn’t like it? Well, I guess boys wouldn’t. So that just tells you how fun it is here. My friends and I had a great time the whole day, even after the boys came back. Don’t worry, every day is really fun.
The end
Carrie M., Age 8
Tribe of Benjamin
After Hebrew, we have free time! We get to go swimming! After swimming, we played carpetball.
We have choir!!
I play the piano. I just learned the chords on the piano. Yamaha told me that the more you practice, the more you can play other instruments. We have choir for about 30 minutes. They also teach guitar, drums and dancing.
We get to eat snacks because there’s a shop. They have ring pops, popcorn, goldfish, Airheads, gummy bears, gummy worms, Otter Pops, soda, gummy hamburgers, fruit snacks and more!!!
When Yamaha gives me a break, I take out two dollars for the snack. They’re really cheap. I always put the money I don’t need back into the money bank. Sonic carries the money case with him so he won’t lose it. I buy Otter Pops because they are only ten cents.
Josh L., Age 11
Tribe of Dan
Everyone is hoping it’s that day and suddenly music from the dining hall comes on. All the boys start yelling and laughing and screaming, “It’s Men’s Dayyy!!!” Soon Onyx wearing plastic medi
eval armor and carrying a sword runs out and yells, “It’s Medieval Men’s Day!” Then all the boys run into the dining hall. We say the blessings and pray then they bring out pizza. After lunch we have FOB, then we hear a whistle blow, and we go outside. We see lots of staff wearing armor, then they split us up in three groups. They take us over to the picnic tables and have us pick a champion out of our group, and we voted on Jacob. Then we had to suit up Jacob using cardboard boxes, duct tape, and aluminum foil. The judges (Sonic, Onyx, and Mr. Tumnus) voted on Jacob as champion, but it’s okay because everyone had fun and in the end, everyone drank men’s brew.
David R., Age 10
Tribe of Simeon
Archery was really hard at first. We had to h
ike downhill and then hike down another hill that was really narrow and steep. Then we ran across the soccer field and there was an archery guide there expecting us. It definitely feels really cool pulling back the string on the bow with an arrow in it. You have to pull back the string with two fingers and you have to aim just above the target. The arrow has a holder on the back of it for it to attach to the string. You need to hear a snap in order for you to know the arrow is placed in the right place. You need to pull the string until the string is about to touch your cheek; you will have maximum power if you pull that far. If you pull the string further than you should it will snap. I have not experimented to see if that is true, but if I even bought my own bow I still would not experiment with it because the bow would cost too much and that would be just a plain waste of money. There is a shed that has a lot of bows and a lot of arrows because if someone broke an arrow they could run in and grab a new one. And that concludes archery.
Jos
iah C., Age 10
Tribe of Ephraim
In free time you do knockout, carpetball, swimming, tree climbing, knot tying, and you can buy things at the Camp Gilgal store. You usually have free time after Tabernacle, after Hebrew class, and after FOB. My favorite thing in free time is knockout. The best knockout player is J-Box. If J-Box misses it he shoots it back up and almost always makes it before the other person. I usually come in third or fourth. In carpetball my longest winning streak is 11. In the store there are Sour Punch Straws, popcorn, Airheads, soda, and other things. When you tree climb you get to climb a really big tree. Also the tree has lots of branches. In knot tying you get to learn how to tie really good knots. There is also choir. In choir you get to dance, you get to sing and you get to learn how to play the piano, drums, and guitar.
Emmanuel R., age 12
Tribe of Dan
Swimming is a fun way to cool down, especially on a hot summer day. Some days the pool is cold, other days it is mild. Most of the time we get a sudden urge to swim or it is a desire to relax when we see the pool. There are a lot of things you can do besides swimming; you can tan, or sit and relax with friends. Swimming is a great way to work out and get your mind off things. While you swim your body uses your arms to pull yourself through the water. If you swim daily you will see a difference in your upper body strength. While you swim you can just forget the day and relax. The pool is also completely safe: it goes down to five feet, the pool is cleaned every day, and there is always a first aid kit nearby. The pool is open from 3:00 to 5:00 during free time. Some days the pool is not open because we are going somewhere or the lifeguard is not there at that time. The pool is a wonderful place to be on a hot sunny day. Just ask your friends. So come on down at free time and have a little dip!
Corey W., Age 10
Tribe of Ephraim
Tying knots is fun. Moose teaches a bunch of knots like the taut-line
hitch, the square knot, or the bowline. With the bowline you can’t get it undone by pulling one part of the rope. The slip knot is another knot that is fun to show to your friends. When you pull it in the right place it will undo. The bowline knot won’t come undone when you pull the rope. The fisherman’s knot is good for holding onto a piece of rope or tying a hook. The figure eight knot looks like the number “8.” The square knot is easy to undo, because it has a “safety latch,” but it takes practice to undo it right. Moose always brings ropes for us to tie with!
Lizzy N., Age 10
Tribe of Zebulun
Water balloon volleyball takes place in a volleyball court. There are two tribes that take place on either side of the net. They each have a tarp on which one of the teams gets a water balloon and must throw it over the net, but the water balloon must stay on the tarp. If the water balloon hits th
e net and it pops, it is a point against you. If the water balloon goes under the net it is also a point against you. If it hits the net and doesn’t pop, and it makes it back to your tarp safely, no point is given. If the water balloon makes it over the net but doesn’t make it into your tarp, it is a point against you. If the water balloon makes it over the net, and into your net, no point is given. If the other team has three points, you lose. Each team gets two tries. Benjamin and Simeon were up first. They were the two youngest tribes. Simeon won and Benjamin lost. The next two tribes were Ephraim and Judah and Judah won. It went on and on and on until the finals. Simeon won and had victory to themselves. When our team was playing, it was so much fun. The other tribes were cheering for us, and it was wonderful. I wish we could play it again! It was a fun and wonderful game!
Jeremiah H., Age 12
Tribe of Gad
Men’s horseback riding was very enjoyable and scenic. The horse-to-camper bond had enhanced the thrill of this activity so much.
Specifically in my group, Jacob S. would stop his ho
rse as we went on our ride until there was room between him and the person in front of him. He would then give his horse a kick and off Jacob would go running on his horse, causing the horses behind to run forward. All the others caught up to him except Java’s horse. Java’s horse would not move like the other horses. He was left behind so far that the cowboy had to go get him.
After a long ride up a big hill, we safely got back to the ranch. There we got off our horses and headed to the meadow to play beside the creek going through it. While we were playing by the creek, campers were jumping up on rocks. One of them, Reuven R., fell on a rock! Luckily, he was ok. Everyone played until we headed back to camp.
My friend Jaden had some words to say about the ride. He enjoyed horseback riding very much. Jaden’s horse, Dorothy, had at one point bitten Jacob’s leg, which was Jaden’s favorite part of the ride.
Persaeus B., Age 7
Tribe of Benjamin
There are nice ladies in the cabin of Benjamin because the tribe leaders are really nice and we made name tags for all of the beds. We love Camp Gilgal because they split you up with the staff members and I got Waffles and Galaxy. They are super nice. When you first came, they banged on the car doors. It’s super fun. After you get there they tell you their names and after a couple hours they tell you the cabin that you’re gonna be in. Camp Gilgal is awesome because it’s like you’re in a huge family and you are. Camp Gilgal has like forty-four people here this year. It is awesome because you are never lonely in your cabin because you at least have to talk to somebody in your cabin. The tribes are awesome but the tribe of Benjamin is much better. The name of our cabin is Hermit Valley. It’s awesome because the cabin can fit a lot of people. Claire likes to eat outside of the box. She makes funny food creations.
Yamen L., Age 11
Tribe of Manasseh
Eight ladies in our cabin make up the tribe of Manasseh. We have six campers in our tribe. Their names are Haneen, LaTanya, Mia, Dinah, Emmalee, and Yamen. (That’s me.) My two tribe leaders are Sauté and Hershey. They are really nice. We have the Grizzly Flat cabin. That’s where the oldest girls stay. We also like this cabin because it’s the biggest one. We all like to work together when it’s Animal Night, Cabin Inspection, and Cabin Decoration Day. Every night we have devotions. Sometimes we go in a circle and everyone tells what they want to pray for.
In our cabin, Mia is the oldest. We have this thing. Since me, LaTanya, Haneen, Emmalee and Dinah are all turning 12 we just say that we are. Mia says that she is 13 because that’s how old she’s turning. Even though I was new I made friends with them instantly. They are probably the nicest people you will ever meet. Our tribe also tries to guess what we are going to do. We like to wear each other’s clothes. We all get along, and we have never gotten in a fight. I’m the only one in this tribe who’s only been here for one year. Everyone in my tribe pretty much wants to be a tribe leader when we are older.
Elijah Y., Age 9 2/3
Tribe of Ephraim
I am in the tribe of Ephraim. Our two counselors are Maverick and Yamaha. The campers are Josiah, Danny, Corey, Michael, and me. During FOB w
e invented a game called FOB Ball. You sit on the top bunks and pass the ball around. Here are the rules: if in any way it falls off the bed, the person whose bunk it is ends up out of the game. If the person who throws it makes the ball hit the wall and go out they’re out. If it hits the wall then the bunk nothing happens. It is also the same if the person catches the ball. If it hits you then the wall it is a foul. If you get a foul you have to sit on your back and throw and catch the ball once. If it lands on your bunk without touching the wall you’re out. That is how you play FOB Ball. We also invented FOB Hockey. Basically, you flick a piece of noodle, shape it into a disk and try to score it into the opponent’s goal. It cannot roll or flip.
That is my article.
Jac
ob S., age 12
Tribe of Gad
The people in the tribe of Gad are Nacho, Java, Isaac, Jeremiah, Nathan, Elliot, Jaden and myself (Jacob S.). The things the tribe likes to do are eat, sleep, swimming, and everything that can be done with water balloons. Most of the time, approximately 90%, we are goofing around. One time, Jeremiah, Nathan, and I were filling water balloons and then J-Box came in and asked what we were doing. Nathan hid the water launcher in his pants. I put the water balloons in my arm pits and Jeremiah ran away. Then we regrouped and started launching water balloons at our own cabin. When Nathan remembered this story he said, “We looked great when we did that!” When FOB comes along, our tribe goes nuts. We run to our bunks, scream, and have a great time. Also our tribe loves to care for each other. Gad is an awesome tribe!
Elizabeth K., Age 11
Tribe of Zebulun
The girls of Zebulun run a tight ship. Literally. The tribe leaders, Nike and Vintage, keep it that way. For Cabin Inspection, the hard rock mine sparkles. Shoes are lined up. Suitcases are zipped and beds are neat and tidy. Nike strives to make these two weeks the best for first-time campers. She’s very sweet, just like candy we can buy at the store. Taliah is good at 
everything; from swimming to doing makeovers to lining up shoes, she is the one to ask. Monique has a unique personality that calms the spicy tempers in the cabin. She is a good listener and very funny. Sarai is the fashion chick in the group. Her outfits are cute and her sunglasses go well with anything. Ooh La La! Lizzy is the athlete like Nike. She is a competitive swimmer. Vintage is quiet and reserved. She likes to listen to us toss around ideas for the upcoming theme night. She helps us make the fun ideas possible to do. I like to laugh and talk with Sarai and my favorite time is right before FOB. We all like to get our giggles out. I enjoy being in the tribe of Zebulun. I hope to come back to Camp Gilgal next summer.
Lizzy N., Age 10
Tribe of Zebulun
Onyx is an out-of-cabin staff member at Camp Gilgal this year. Onyx has been coming to camp for eight years. His favorite part about camp is getting to know the campers and to let them know more about God in a fun way. When he is at home, he loves to cook and play backgammon in coffee shops. He likes to study psychology and languages.
More about Onyx:
Q: Did you already graduate from college?
A: No.
Q: What do you think about FOB?
A: I love FOB. It saves my life from being exhausted.
Q: Do you have a job?
A: Yes, an internship at Jews for Jesus.
Q: What is your best memory from when you were a camper?
A: Being at Bass Lake at teen camp in a banana boat.
Q: Describe Capture the Degel from your past.
A: It was kind of the same. It was one of the most exciting things in camp.
Q: How were the meals from the past?
A: I ate salad, never anything else.
Q: Who are your closest friends?
A: Mr. Commissioner and Cucamonga.
Q: What are your favorite hobbies?
A: Calligraphy, swimming, and reading.
Q: What is your favorite game?
A: Carpetball.
Elizabeth K., Age 11
Tribe of Zebulun 
For my second article with the Gilgal Gazette, I chose to interview Whimzy, a fun-loving, assistant tribe leader of Judah. This is her first year as staff, although she has been a camper many times. She loves the colors of the rainbow which shows how bright and bubbly she is. Her favorite foods are chocolate, potatoes and fruit, though not together! She loves to swim, but she’s not into sports very much. She has a favorite hobby – reading! She loves to read. Her favorite books to read are fairy tales. When asked if she had any advice for campers, she paused, thought a bit, and then said: “Have fun at camp, still make time to do business with God.”
Daniel P., Age 10
Tribe of Dan
I asked Sherbert questions and here’s what I got. Her favorite sport is tennis. Between tacos and pizza, she said she likes tacos better. She likes Coke over Mountain 
Dew. Her favorite animal is an elephant. I love penguins. I have a stuffed penguin that everyone in my cabin likes. Her favorite car is a Mustang convertible. My favorite car is a Bugatti Veyron. I asked her why she likes Camp Gilgal and Sherbert said because she loves all the campers. Camp Gilgal means a lot to her. She says it’s a family of people growing closer to God. She thinks my hair is awesome. She got her name because she loves sherbet ice cream and it was her grandmother’s nickname. I asked her how she liked Ladies Day and she said it was fun and relaxing. Her favorite part about camp is getting to know all of us campers. Her favorite spot in camp is sitting out on the porch because it’s peaceful and has a beautiful view of God’s creation. Her favorite ice cream is sherbet, of course.
Jacob S., Age 12
Tribe of Gad
J-Box is one awesome tribe leader. He is very athletic and loves Y’shua. When I interviewed J-Box I asked him some quest
ions. The first question was how long he has been playing basketball. He said he has been playing for five years. The second question is how long he has been coming to camp. J-Box said, “Two years.” The third question is, “Where do you get all your swag?” He said, “From my momma.” I thought that was funny. The fourth one is how much he can bench press. He said, “I don’t usually bench press but I usually get up around 200 pounds.” The fifth question is when he accepted God into his life. He said, “Eight years old.” The next question is whether he has any siblings, and he said, “Yes, one brother, three sisters, one half-sister.” “What are you going to college for?” J-Box is going to college for sports. The eighth question was how many sit-ups he can do. J-Box said, “125 in a row.” The ninth question is what’s his favorite food. He said, “Pizza and hamburgers.” The last question is how much he reads his Bible daily. He said, “Two to four times.” That was an interview with J-Box.
Nathan B., Age 9
Tribe of Simeon
I interviewed Snapple. She is awesome. I asked her how old she is and she said, “That is an excellent question.” She has been at camp for six years as staff. Her favorite Snapple flavors are Lemon Tea or Diet Peach. Snapple comes back to camp because she LOVES camp. She wishes it was all year. I do, too! I love camp and want it to last all summer. There is a game called carpetball and I love it. Snapple loves it, too. I played her. She beat me. I was sad. We’re still friends. I am so happy Snapple is at camp. She is always happy and funny. She is nice. Snapple always gives me hugs. I love Snapple.
Zoe N., Age 9
Tribe of Judah
Mr. Tumnus has been part of camp for two years. He likes playing soccer. He loves the color blue and eating sushi. He grew up and went to school in Jerusalem. Mr. Tumnus likes 
teaching Hebrew. He thought Narnia was great. Mr. Tumnus’ favorite game was Capture the Degel. He learned Hebrew from the age of three and he has five siblings.
I am in the Alef group. We are learning the Alef Bet, which is the Hebrew alphabet. I only have to learn three more letters until I know the whole thing. Mr. Tumnus sings us the Alphabet Song to help us remember it. He is a good teacher and Hebrew is really fun. We write the letters that he teaches us in a book so that we can use it when we are older. At line up before every meal, Mr. Tumnus gives us the Hebrew word of the day. Mr. Tumnus gives words to us for the meals and food we eat. I hope I get to learn more Hebrew with Mr. Tumnus.
Mia C., Age 12
Tribe of Manasseh
My article is about Sauté, my co-tribe leader. This year is Sauté’s first year as a tribe leader. She has a great personality and many talents. She loves dancing and has been doing it for nine years. Her ballet teacher had her compete with boys, and that pushed her to become a good jumper, and thus the name “Sauté” was born. She can do so many cool things that she learned as a dancer, like the splits. However, Sauté has also played soccer, and she had to choose between that
and ballet. She also loves being in the outdoors, traveling, swimming and physical stuff. She even wants to pursue physical therapy as a career. In the past two years, Sauté has been to Germany and the Netherlands. She is very enthusiastic and energetic.
Aside from her hobbies, I need to also address her staff member career. Although Sauté was never a junior camper, her brother, Simba, told her all about camp. They met the same people, and she became friends with a lot of current tribe leaders. Sauté said that everybody that she and her brother met either are or have been camp staff. Sometimes siblings don’t always get along, but Sauté said, “It’s fun leading with him because I can ask him stuff since he’s been doing it longer.” She said that she loves “spending time with awesome campers and staff.” She hopes that she can continue at camp as long as possible.
She loves kids and obviously likes playing with them. If you wanted to know Sauté, she would want to tell you that she loves dancing, being in the outdoors, swimming, traveling and being with kids. And if you wanted to know her favorite food, she loves almost every kind of pasta with good sauce and meat in it.
So, moral of the story: meet Sauté and you will have lots of fun!
Nathan P., Age 12
Tribe of Gad
Nacho likes jalapenos on his nachos. Nacho has secrets but refuses to tell me. Nacho is 5’9” and weighs 147. He has curly brown hair, has glasses, a wonderful beard, and has a perfectly 
oval head. He thinks he has tons of swag and my nickname for him is Swagedy. But I’m being sarcastic with the nickname. He says he loves all my siblings equally. Nacho is confident in himself. He listens to Indie music. He tells me that it’s none of my business if he has a wife or girlfriend. He likes rock underground hip hop and old people music. Nacho doesn’t know his social security number. He goes to college in Texas and lives in his mommy and daddy’s house in the summer. Nacho is majoring in Anthropology and wants to become a better critical thinker in college. Nacho’s happiest times were at camp. Nacho says his favorite food besides nachos is ribs with delicious barbeque sauce flavors. Nacho’s favorite part of San Antonio is the food. Nacho has two parents, an older sister and older brother. Nacho’s favorite beverages are Dr. Pepper, green tea, Sprite, mango juice, and water. That’s the basics of Nacho.
Elliot K., Age 12
Tribe of Gad
Q: What is your favorite food?
A: Scones with clotted cream and lemon curd.
Q: What is your favorite restaurant?
A: Chili’s. 
Q: What does Vintage mean?
A: Old-fashioned.
Q: How long have you been involved with Jews for Jesus?
A: Nine years.
Q: How long of a drive did it take you to get here?
A: Six and a half hours.
Q: What are your favorite hobbies at camp and at home?
A: Writing poetry, knitting and illustrating.
Q: What is your favorite camp in Camp Gilgal?
A: Junior camp.
Q: How was camp when you were a kid?
A: Encouraging.
Q: Which is your favorite part about camp?
A: Worship and Wells Fargo.
Q: Are you a lefty?
A: Yes, I am.
Q: What was your favorite year?
A: My last year at junior camp.
Michael K., Age 10
Tribe of Ephraim 
This year at camp, I interviewed Moose. He has been the director of camp for 21 years. His favorite part of camp is the campers. He likes Capture the Degel a lot, but Waffles kept catching him and he didn’t like going to jail. Moose’s favorite meal is breakfast. He said that horseback riding was fun and his horse was named Bullwinkle. He liked to eat pine needles! Moose liked being a rooster on Animal Night. Moose has actually been a camper before, but not at Camp Gilgal. Moose doesn’t sleep during FOB. He loved men’s campfire. He also liked the campfire with s’mores. He thought Skit Night was wonderful. Moose really enjoyed the 20-foot sundae. He also thought stargazing was amazing. His favorite color is blue because of the LA Dodgers.
My favorite thing about Moose is that he loves me and he is my friend. Once during Mail Call he was so excited he fell over, that was really funny. Moose teaches in Tabernacle, where we worship and learn about God. I saw Moose throw at the egg toss in Columbia on the Fourth of July. He won third place! Moose caught my tribe twice during Mission Impossible. He was really good at that game. During free time, Moose hangs out with campers tying knots.
Noa B., Age 10
Tribe of Judah
Galaxy is Benjamin’s ATL (Assistant Tribe Leader). She does things with wolves. In their tribe they have six girls. And I’m Noa (from Judah) and I am going to be interviewing Galaxy. Now Galaxy has gone to three summer camps and five winter weekends. Her favorite part of camp is being involved in the spiritual growth of campers.
When she was in fifth grade she went to a five-day nature science camp. And she was 12 years old when Galaxy first came to Camp Gilgal. Her teammate made her bed. Her favorite Bible verses are Matthew 6:25-34.
When she came to camp as a camper she enjoyed it so much that she wanted to help other campers have the same experience. She likes every shade of blue. Her favorite animal is a horse. And her tribe has never won Tribe of the Year.
I enjoyed interviewing with Galaxy and I am glad she is here.
Boaz B., Age 8
Tribe of Simeon
I was able to interview Sonic for my first year of camp. Spe
edy Sonic has been at Camp Gilgal since he was nine years old. The next question I asked Speedy Sonic was what things he has done at Camp Gilgal. Speedy Sonic replied he has done everything at Camp Gilgal. He loves the night games. I asked him what things he likes about camp and he said that he likes Capture the Degel and having fun with campers. He has been on staff for seven years and he enjoys doing it very much.
Sonic was able to travel to Jerusalem two years ago. On this trip my dad was able to meet him and get to know him. When he was there he learned a lot about the Bible. I get along with Speedy Sonic very well. Sonic is always kind to me and hangs out with me. He is nice to the campers and I am glad he came this year. I like when we play games in the swimming pool. I always get horsey rides from him.
I had a great time getting to know Sonic. I know Speedy Sonic has had a great time at camp just like I did.
Latanya H., Age 12
Tribe of Manasseh
Waffles is a beloved tribe leader at Camp Gilgal. She has been at camp since she was eight years old. You would think that Waffles, as a camper, would have been outgoing when she 
got to camp, but she wasn’t. She was really nervous with tears in her eyes. Soon after, she was totally fine and had lots of fun. She made lots of friends like Snapple, Bazooka, Hoops, Acorn, Nike, and lots more.
When she is not at camp she likes to bake, ride horses, and photograph. Her favorite color is minty green. Waffles’ parents named her Waffles because she had hair color like the color of waffles and she loves to bake.
Everyone at Camp Gilgal knows about the tribe of the year. Well, Waffles won it three times in her whole experience at Camp Gilgal. Her favorite part of it was paddle boating in 2011. I, Latanya, was in her tribe that year. I totally agree with her. Paddle boating was so much fun. When I asked her if Camp Gilgal has helped her with her journey with God, she said, “Definitely, yes!” Waffles is a fun, loving, awesome person. Camp Gilgal loves her, especially me!
Danny G., Age 10
Tribe of Ephraim
Simba is a very awesome tribe leader at camp. Simba has been my tribe leader before, so I want you to get to know him. I asked him some questions about his life and I got some awesome answers. The first question I asked him was how long have you been here? He has been on staff for three years. The
n I asked him what are some of his favorite sports and he answered Ultimate Frisbee and dodge ball. When I asked him what his favorite thing to do with the campers was he said Mission Impossible because it is a very awesome game to play with campers. If he had another job he would choose to do whatever God told him to do. Some things he likes to do for fun are singing and playing the guitar. I asked if he went to junior camp and he didn’t; he started at teen camp. I asked him what he liked to do at teen camp. He enjoyed paintball, jet skiing, and Capture the Degel. I asked him how he has been and he said, “Pretty good, thanks.” I thought I should ask him something crazy so I asked him what he would do if I pushed him off a cliff. He said he would most likely get hurt. I asked if he went horseback riding. He said he did and he had an excellent time. Then I asked him if he liked Wells Fargo. Of course, he said “Yes, it is a very fun game.” If you didn’t know, Simba is an awesome lion.
Jaden W., Age 12
Tribe of Gad
Java’s favorite part of camp is Capture the Degel. He is a tribe leader because he felt God called him to be here. Jacob, Elliot, Nathan, Isaac, Jeremiah, and I were in his cabin. He also had Nacho as a tribe leader in our cabin. The name of our tribe was Gad and we were defin
itely rad! His favorite place in the camp is the dining hall because the food is served there. He seems to like camp and he likes having the opportunity to interact with the campers because he can get to know them and pray for them as well. The thing he likes most about Capture the Degel is when jail break happens after he is imprisoned. I think he had a wonderful experience. Also he loved the 20-foot sundae and ate too much. Maybe he can work it off by swimming from me, Reuven, Elijah, and everybody else in the pool. He decided to be on staff after he went to Ingathering and found about it. He got excited and made it a goal to join the Camp Gilgal staff. This is his second year as a tribe leader. In Tabernacle he especially likes the worship because that is where God speaks to him. His favorite food at camp is a tie between spaghetti and hamburgers. He hopes one day they will have steak at camp. I don’t think that will ever happen. I also asked him who his favorite camper is. He answered saying, “That is an excellent question.” I’m not going to lie, that answer annoys me, but I enjoyed having him as a tribe leader.
Sophia M., Age 9
Tribe of Benjamin
Q: What did it feel like when you first met Snapple?
A: It felt like a refreshing sip of ice cold tea.
Q: How old were you when you believed in Jesus?
A: I was six.
Q: Who got you involved in Jews for Jesus?
A: I was on a Jews for Jesus music team. 
Q: What is your favorite story in the Bible?
A: When Jacob wrestles the angel.
Q: Has God ever done a miracle? What is it?
A: Given me a job where I get to spend time with amazing campers.
Q: What is your most favorite thing to do at camp?
A: It’s to play in the pool with campers and Ladies Day.
Streetlight loves music and having manicures. Streetlight is awesome because she’s sweet, kind, fun to talk to, and most of all beautiful and awesome in music. I met her last year in 2011 at my first year!
Elijah Y., Age 9 2/3
Tribe of Ephraim
I am writing an interview on Yamaha. These are the answers. He picked the name Yamaha because he likes pianos and the company Yamaha makes pianos. He loves camp. To the question, “Do you like being a camper more than a tribe leader,” he says, “That’s an excellent question.” I asked how is it being in charge and he answered, “See above answer.” He loves all of camp. His favorite camp food is the pancakes. His favorite thing at camp so far is his tribe. He thinks Skit Night is awesome and everybody’s skits were great. He lives in L.A. That is my interview with Yamaha.
Elizabeth R., Age 8
Tribe of Benjamin
I 
met Nike at Camp Gilgal. She heard about camp from her sisters. She loves sports. Her favorite is soccer. What Nike loves about camp is that it is one big family. Her favorite night game is water balloon volleyball. Nike’s favorite theme night is Feed a Friend Night. She has been going to winter camp for a year. Her name is Nike because her parents knew she would like sports. Nike’s favorite meal is chicken and rice. Nike doesn’t just like camp, she most definitely loves camp. She loves everything about it. Some of the things that she loves most are FOB, cuppage, M.I., campfires and Tabernacle. Nike really likes spending time with her tribe as well as all of the campers. She is so thankful she got to be here this year. She’s very sad that camp is coming to an end, but she knows God did a great work over the last two weeks. She is looking forward to seeing her Camp Gilgal family next summer.
Reuven R., Age 12
Tribe of Dan
In my interview with Maverick, I found out some nice stuff. For example, this year is Maverick’s fifth year at camp. Also, not shockingly, his favorite activity at camp is going to Columbia. That day is a lot of people’s favorites. He really likes sushi, but Maverick’s favorite camp food is barbeque. Maverick loves FOB. His name is from the movie, Top Gun. He plays baseball, racquetball, and basketball. He only sings when he has to, but he loves humming tunes anyway. He says, “That’s an excellent question,” a lot. He has two brothers and one sister. He bakes well. He was nine during his first year at Camp Gilgal. Capture the Degel is his favorite game. He is rumored to be amazing and stupendous at it. Maverick’s brother is Professor; they mostly get along. He loves studying science, especially biology. He wears loafers and sports his own unique style. Maverick is a very supportive and good tribe leader. Maverick is a long-serving member of Camp Gilgal staff, and is a key part of the Camp Gilgal family.
“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
The Gilgal Gazette is published by Camp Gilgal campers for Camp Gilgal campers
and their families and friends!
Campers and Staff
Campers: Abbey M., Amanda R., Andrew B., Andrew F., Benjamin R., Brighton G., Brooke A., Conner G., Daniela W., David S., Destiny A., Dorothy P., Eliana S., Elias B., Enrico M., Evan S., Gabriella W., Isaac Y., Jacob B., Jacob S., Joel R., Jon A., Joshua R., Judi W., Julia K., Kaleb F., Katie S., Kezia M., Leia B., Lindsay M., Louisa G., Matt L., Max C., Max H., Nitzan S., Noah P., Roy M., Sarah K., Shaya J., Vika S., Zachary S., Zachary W.
Staff: Acorn, Doc, Esquire, Eyegore, Hoops, Ivory, Onyx, Sauté, Simba, Snapple, Sonic, Waffles
Out-of-cabin: Monarch, Moose, Streetlight
Elias B., Age 12
Tabernacle is very open and is very spiritual to everyone that makes it that way. Tabernacle is a time of worship for God and is such a great chance to be able to love and worship God. From my experience in Tabernacle, I think that it is such a great chance to get to know God and also to sing to Him about our love for Him. 
During Tabernacle we have fun singing and we all can sing openly and freely because no one can judge anyone on how they sing because we are all the same in God’s eyes. In my experience of Tabernacle, I believe that it should be a time of serious worship and time to praise with your family at Camp Gilgal. The one thing that I think is so cool is how Sonic, Streetlight, Simba and Doc are such great musicians and their worship songs are so beautiful that there is no way to not sing along with them. So I think that everyone should respect Tabernacle and would hope that every single day of my life I could have that.
Jacob S., Age 12
Non-campfire is really fun. It’s also really spiritual. The things tha
t I really like about the non-campfire was that we all were singing and praising and you could feel God’s energy throughout the whole entire camp. Another thing I liked is that the tribe leaders share stuff that happened to them in their spiritual walk with God. I liked Streetlight’s story. The one that I specifically liked is the one that Doc said. Doc said that he did not feel God’s love but he later on in his life he felt God’s love. He told why he did not feel God’s love when he was younger.
Brooke A., Age 15
Anyone who went to junior camp will remember FOB, a bitter-sweet activity that occurs every day. It is respite for tribe leaders and campers alike. FOB, which stands for “Flat on Bunk,” is a great time to write letters or take a nap. Though, if your tribe leaders permit, FOB can be a big party. The snacks get passed around, campers yell and laugh and play silly games. FOB can be a very memorable time for junior campers. But once you graduate to teen camp, FOB is no longer a regular occurrence. One camper, Judy, said “I miss having FOB.” This Thursday at teen camp we had “FOB Appreciation 
Day,” which means we get the FOB experience at teen camp. There was much excitement with campers running to the cabins and falling into their bunks. For many it was a flash back to junior camp and the FOB activities were the same. Jon, a teen camper, said “I wrote postcards to family and friends.” Another camper, Shaya, said, “I practiced the memory verse and we had a cabin discussion.” Because camp is such an exciting and fast-paced experience, having a time to rest is great.
FOB is a tradition that the tribe leaders had as campers as well. Hoops, a teen camp leader, said “When I was a camper I definitely didn’t sleep. We played games from bunk to bunk and tried not to wake the tribe leaders.” FOB, though sometimes underrated, is an important time in camp when campers can relax and spend quality time with their tribe.
Jon A., Age 15
1. Orientation
It’s been a long drive today. Starting off from LA, we have twisted and turned ourselves almost 1/3 of the state.
As we drive up, we are greeted enthusiastically by all who have come up before us, with window bangings and the joyful cries of reunited friends.
When assigned to cabins, the new arrivals look around pensively, not knowing yet what to expect from their freshly assigned companions.
We eat our first meal, getting to know our fellow tribesmen a little better.
Later in the evening, we hear from some of our leaders’ life stores, specifically of their experiences with camp.
2. Yosemite
After we eat breakfast, we are instructed to pack our own lunches.
Speculations abound about what the day will hold.
We pile up into vans. The fuss over who sits with whom is ever present.
We finally drive up into Yosemite itself, and veer left unto Glacier Point.
Half Dome awaits us – tall, majestic and unmoved.
We squirm our way through a camp photo.
We eat our lunch.
Quick detour for souvenirs, and then it’s a hike down Glacier Point to Yosemite Valley.
A whole 4.6 miles.
Depending on constitution and energy, the hike is either
massive fun or a grueling march.
Sometimes, a little of both.
At the end, we return home, hungry for a very late supper.
3. Vons
Thinking of grocery shopping, several words may come to mind:
Dull
Well-Stocked
Efficient.
Rarely would anyone call a grocery outing ‘fun’ – that is, unless one is a Camp Gilgal camper.
We are in the pool when it starts.
Lunch had been wonderful, and most were enjoying a swim.
Thus, when greeted by a sign telling us to grab clothes, money and shoes and to flee to the cars,
it takes us completely by surprise.
As we board up and drive, speculations of where we are going are shouted like cheers at a race.
After the veteran campers recognize the venue, EVERYONE is excited – first time or not.
We overran the store with our fun.
The independence of shopping for one’s self is a novelty.
As purchases are made, treats are shared;
ice cream, sorbet, sushi, chips and cookie dough.
A feast.
We finally leave, laden with our purchases and on our toes for the next surprise.
Nitzan S., Age 14
Every morning at camp, each tribe gathers in their cabin and begins their cabin clean up. Every bed must be organized and every sleeping bag zipped up, straightened out and neat-looking. 
Every nook and cranny must be swept clean, leaving absolutely no debris on the ground. The bathrooms also have to swept out, in addition to making sure the sinks are clean. Once tribe members leave the cabin, all the lights must be turned off, the heater cannot be running and the water faucets in the sinks can’t be running.
The outsides of the cabins matter as well. All trash needs to be picked up and thrown away and the porches need to be swept off, leaving no debris. The little trash cans inside need to be dumped into the large trash can outside.
At any time in the day while campers are off doing something their cabins are inspected. The cabin is checked for anything “disheveled” or “askew.” The mattresses are checked underneath for trash and the shelves are examined for anything disorganized.
After cabins are inspected, Moose announces cabin inspection results, during which each tribe receives feedback on the way they cleaned their cabin. Small mistakes, such as gum wrappers under the beds and major mistakes such as leaving the water running, count as “infractions,” and each infraction is a 5-point deduction. The cabins must all maintain an 85-point average in order to earn the victory party on Friday.
Eliana S., Age 13
Benching. It’s something that the camp does together as a whole. The Hebrew prayer thanks the Lord for the food and substance that He provides for us. Banging on the table may be fun – well, it is fun, but benching is so much more. The words in English say, “Blessed are you, God, ruler of the world, who gives food to all with grace, kindness and compassion.” This means that God in heaven gives us food through His great goodness and He provides us with what we 
need.
Something that a lot of people take for granted is two or three meals a day. God is so good to give us such a privilege when so many people in the world don’t get that luxury.
A good thing to remember each day is to not take that for granted and to always thank God for His great goodness. That’s why we always bench after lunch. “Blessed are You, God, who nourishes all.”
Shaya J., Age 12
I think panel is a great way to discuss questions that need to be answered in a manner of way and can be explained really well. In the panel the way you ask questions is by writing on a card, then Moose takes them from us and gives to one of the guys who answers the questions. On the panel some of the questions are really good questions, some are like really powerful. Some are meaningful. The panel is really about asking questions that are hard 
and sometimes uncomfortable, and this way I think the panel is for us so we can ask these questions. There are about 42 of us who have these questions. The location is in Vespers.
The panel is an opportunity for young people to have their questions answered about tough topics that they may not feel comfortable asking their parents or peers. Sonic said,“Yes, I enjoy the opportunity to share with young men and ladies about my experiences and what I have learned after being in their shoes.” Sonic said that he thinks all of the questions are good and it can fun and challenging to express his thoughts into short concise answers.
Andrew B., Age 15
Monday, July 16th. Witnesses report seeing a herd of seven to ten wild mountain cows wandering behind Larkspur Cabin and Mountain View Center at around 6:20 to 6:40 in the morning. Initial witnesses were a group of early morning runners: Andrew B., Noah P, and tribe leader Sonic. Andrew reports, “They showed up after I ran. I was the first to see them, and showed many others.” Noah simply exclaimed, “Holy cow!”
Through the morning, many more sightings occurred, especially with tribe leaders heading to morning meeting. Snapple, a tribe leader, reports that she was in “complete and ‘udder’ shock about seeing cows so close to the cabins.” Camp leader Moose, on the other hand, reports feeling very deprived about missing a sighting opportunity due to urgent business. Another camper, Zach S., slept right through the event and reports some feelings of regret. Also regretful was camper Brooke A. Some other campers, however, like David S. and Max C., really just didn’t care.
Along with these sightings, lots of speculation about these bodacious bovines has arisen. How did they get there? Perhaps they came from open range down the road… Or maybe they rode in on “cow-asakis!” But bad jokes aside, how can we fathom their intentions? When one camper attempted to establish contact with the cows, they apparently gave him the “evil eye.” Does this indicate hostility? Are they just anti-social?
Anyway, conspiracies aside, cow sightings ceased at approximately 6:40am. They moved on, leaving scarcely a trace beyond some fresh pie. So what do you think of the cows? Camp Gilgal wants to know!
Max H., Age 14
Water polo outside of Camp Gilgal is a much different sport than what we play here. What I’ve observed of it here is that there are three types of players. “Tanks,” heavy, huge. They get swarmed on and push people to the side. They also tend to not throw as much as others. “Regulars” are what the second group is. They do everything but with no special skill. They’re the majority of both teams. And finally, “cherry pickers.” They stand next to the goal and wait for the ball to be thrown to them. They’re usually the smallest people on court. They also make the majority of the goals. The ball is usually a soccer ball and the score usually doesn’t go above 16. The teams are as even as possible and the team is only as many people that want to play.
Vika S., Age 13
Wednesday after Tabernacle we all walked to the rope course. But then the men and ladies split up. The guys went to go rock climb while the ladies went to do initiatives. Basically, initiatives were group courses you had to go through with your tribe.
The first one we went to was a course where you have to travel over three platforms and not fall into the rushing river/dusty floor. You get three lives. If you drop your foot in or drop the boards you use to get across, you have to start over. You get one short board and one longer one. You have to use both boards to make a successful bridge across. The point of this initiative was to work together and take turns.
After we finished the first exercise, we went on to the next one which was a long large log. Snapple was commanding that one. To finish the initiative, everyone first had to sit on the log and get from tallest to shortest without falling off. Then when we finished Snapple asked us to go shortest to tallest so everyone had to go to different sides. Through this initiative we learned how to listen to each other and not to rush.
The last initiative was a bubbling lava of lake/the ground. As a group we had to have someone reach out very far to reach a rope and pull it back to the group. Then one at a time everyone had to swing across on the rope to reach the safe platform on the other side. But if anyone touches the floor or falls everyone has to start over. After everyone went to the other side, Streetlight (who was in charge at that activity) told us we had to go back but without saying a word. We successfully crossed and all of the three initiatives were over. We then met up with the other tribes and we prayed and talked about what we learned like listening to others, working together and considering other people’s limits. When that was over we all went to lunch.
Brighton G., Age 15
It was a regular, fun day at camp. The day started off like any other day, except it was raining. We ate inside instead of outside and right after lunch ended Streetlight screams, “Go get ready for Bass Lake!” She said to get shoes, bathing suits, a change 
of clothes, sunscreen and spending money. It was a fun drive to Bass Lake, except I got a little bit car sick.
We got there, and I jumped out of the van! I was so excited! Nobody was there because the day started out gloomy, but it got sunny and it wasn’t crowded at all! I was first in the water, and it felt so good! I got about four shades tanner. It’s so great! I got on the banana, twice! I got so much water in my nose! Leah and I hit our noses on each other’s twice!
Other than those minor injuries, it was a great day! We had an awesome worship session when we got back, and it was super cool. Everyone got really emotional, and I think everyone connected with God. It was awesome. We also had a really good dinner at Bass Lake. I even made friends that I never met at camp before! All in all it was an awesome day, and Bass Lake is the best day of camp. It was an awesome way to end my last year at teen camp.
Joel R., Age 15
It all began when Moose told all of us to retrieve our sleeping bags and meet in the lounge. After five minutes of talking about sad pet stories, a screaming Sonic ran in the building and declared “Who is ready to play Capture the Degel?” Everyone was emphatic within two seconds. After a boring ten minutes of the rules being explained, we were finally ready to play a night time version of Capture the Degel. It was the male c
ampers and female staff against the female campers and male staff.
We decided to have about thirty people on offense, and ten on defense. Ten minutes into the game, I snuck out on my own. I was consistently running into other girls and letting them go. Then, I heard a “Help us, help us, help us” melody. My destination was immediately saving them. Before I knew it, I was circling a bush with a male staff member and ran for it. I felt the wind of his arm swipe at me and he tripped. I could see the jail. I ran as hard as I could, touched Conner’s leg and yelled, “Jailbreak!” 90% of our offense was now in the flag circle. Another jailbreak occurred and I made it to the circle. We started planning instantly on what to do when snap. Roy tripped and distracted the defense. Matt, Noah and Jacob Stout bolted away. After 30 minutes of waiting in the circle, the whistle blows. Our whole team dashed back and we hear a bunch of cheering. Noah is holding the flag, and we won.
After hugging me tightly for saving the team, I got a bunch of celebratory high fives and hugs. There were lots of war stories, and photos to add to what was already an amazing game of Capture the Degel.
Andrew F., Age 14
Max and I got on the jet ski with Sauté and went five miles per hour in the beginning. Once we got out past the buoys we were going around 35. We were riding near Moose and other people. Sauté tried to knock us off a couple of times. I think she did great for her first time. The only problem was I had to go to the bathroom after I got off. I loved when the water splashed in my face. Onyx stayed behind us when we were riding because he was catching all the waves. I wish we would have done it longer than 20 minutes because it felt shorter than 20 minutes. I was really hoping Max would fall off, though the only problem with that is he would have pulled me off with him. Onyx decided to splash water in our faces when he passed us. I could barely hear Sauté though. We were all going to fall off cause the turning was knocking us near the water. The waves were amazing and the water was beautiful looking. Max, Sauté and I had so much fun and it was one of the best days I could ever have. I hadn’t had that much fun in a long time. It was one of my favorite parts of camp.
Josh R., Age 14
After enjoying lunch “we” campers started going down the trail from Glacier Point to Yosemite Valley. The trail was about five miles.
Along the way we met a hiker who had gone down then back up the trail. Onyx asked him how was it. He replied it as being “beautiful and wonderful.”
While going down the trail we got to know our fellow campers better. New friendships and bonds were made. As I went down the trail I saw a waterfall that gleamed in the sunlight and landscape that was beautiful. Going down the trail most campers short-cutted, but some slipped then.
Hiking down the trail was tiring in the middle. There was a group of campers and staff that fell behind the faster group. Also towards the middle it was slippery and lots of campers slipped but caught themselves from falling. One camper fell and had a minor injury.
Most of the time though the hike was fun and safe. Through the hike many campers were in awe of God’s beautiful creation, such as the mountains that were large and scenic. The trail sometimes had stairs for easier descending. It had lots of trees and shrubbery at the sides of the trail.
Towards the end of the trail there was a creek that campers and staff used to refresh themselves.
After that everyone seemed more energetic, especially when we were only 100 feet from the ground. We rushed down and after only two minutes we were on the ground.
At the bottom we met an off duty ranger who told us the history of the area. He told us that there used to be millions of primrose evening flowers in existence. That all changed because the Native Americans unintentionally burned them when they burnt the grass. Now there are only hundreds and it’s illegal to destroy them. We thanked him for his story and cheered because we had made it down the 3,200 feet.
Noah P., Age 15
All the campers were at the pool just chilling and playing water football. Then suddenly Moose and Streetlight were holding a poster that said to get dry. So we all rushed to our cabins, got dressed and went into vans to Vons with a Starbucks. The campers and tribe leaders bought a lot of stuff.
I
saw the Starbucks and got in line. The line was sort of long because of all the campers. I got a double chocolate cookie crunch which was really good. Also later I bought some sushi there which was fresh.
Now what some other people bought: Brighton, one of the other campers, bought a tub of rainbow sherbet. Everyone was trying to get some, although when we got back to camp it was all melted. He also bought some cookie dough and just ate it raw with some other campers.
Later on in the store Onyx asked me to try something. Onyx had some mint chocolate chip ice cream and some chips. He told me to try the chip and the ice cream together. It tasted really good. Sort of like eating fries with a milk shake.
We had to leave Vons and go back to camp. It was an awesome surprise and we all enjoyed it.
Roy M., Age 15
It was dark, cold and covered with bugs. It was late at night when Moose told us all to bring a sweatshirt and pants and close-toed shoes. So many campers at Camp Gilgal brought flashlights. Even though it was dark outside I could tell a lot of campers had them because everywhere I looked there was always a bright light shining in my eyes. Moose eventually told us all why he brought us outside. It was to appreciate the stars in the sky the Lord was providing for us all. I was with my br
other Enrico when Moose told us to lay down in the grass, to which we looked at each other knowing the grass is wet, cold and filled with bugs. After we sat down my brother and I were bored of watching the stars for so long without moving or doing anything else to entertain us. After so long of waiting for something to come save us from boredom I saw a plane and so did my brother so we tried to make a game out of it. We couldn’t.
During some of the prayers I realized I’ve been waiting for something to fill my need of boredom when I should have been enjoying and appreciating what the Lord has given us. At the moment I figured that out, a flaming hot shooting star came out which most of us saw and it became one of those summer camp memories you don’t forget.
David S., Age 12
Despite the few who decided to defend the blue base and the even fewer who did not leave to go on offense, our defense was incredible. Even more incredible, however, was the great fun and the awesome experience I had. After choosing a site for the degel and jail among the trees, Zach and I asked everyone to keep flashlights off and voices low. Consequently, it was quite a while before the red team even found our base. However, they weren’t the only ones that could not find the base.
Soon after the game started, Jon, Zach and I went to scout to spot all enemies in our territory. Not long after we found a group of girls walking in plain sight on the road with all their flashlights on – couldn’t be too hard to catch; however, we guessed that their goal could only be to be led to jail and from there yell and 
bring the others to the flag. Searching for Sonic, Simba and the other tribe leaders was a task of stealth as well as speed. We soon found and tagged Sonic, yet getting to the jail was another matter. On the way to our base, I had not paid careful attention to the path, and even less to the way to where we were now. Without a flashlight, it was even harder. Zach took Sonic in search of the jail. Awhile afterwards the figure of Esquire was seen running around the woods towards Mountain View. While Esquire was slowing down from a wearying chase, I once again took up the chase. It wasn’t unlike a western. He was quite out of breath, so I soon caught him. Then we wandered around in what I thought was the direction of the jail. However as Esquire pointed out we were walking in circles. Eventually, I let him go as it wasn’t very fair to keep him walking around pointlessly. After some time, I found my way back to the base. Esquire, Sonic, perhaps Moose and several other girls ended up in jail. The noise of movement in the brush seemed to be a sign that enemies prowled through the trees. We tried to keep them as far as we could from the degel. Perhaps Simba or such folk crept through the forest. Yet before they could get a jail break, shouts of victory echoed through the woods – we had won!
Lindsay M., Age 13
During free time, you can do many activities. One of the many things you can do is boating. Y
ou have a couple of options for the type of boats. There are kayaks, canoes, and paddle boats. Amanda and I went paddle boating and we were suddenly attacked by the Jacobs! They were too lazy to paddle their kayaks so they held onto our boat and splashed us.
The rules for boating are that you’re not allowed to go behin
d the island because the staff there won’t be able see you. You are not allowed to splash someone who doesn’t want to be splashed. It is so much fun! After paddle boating your legs get really sore. Overall, paddle boating is the best thing to do during free time.
Julia K., Age 13
“Welcome to Vons!” That definitely was not what we all expected when we stepped out of the camp cars, carsick but 
excited. The rush around the store was total chaos. “There’s Nutella?! Where’s the Nutella?!” Eliana was hurrying to grab some conditioner. “The Haagen Dazs ice cream I bought was life changing,” said Streetlight. Everybody loved the trip to Vons… except maybe Brighton who got sick from an overload of cookie dough and sherbet. Of course, I am sure that the owners of Vons liked all the extra customers, though the other shoppers were probably a bit confused. The trip made everyone happy, including myself. It was only a trip to a store, but it could be told with just as crazy war stores as Capture the Degel. Amanda didn’t expect it, but she liked having a chance to hang out with her friends while getting whatever she wanted. Some thoughts from the tribe leaders were that they had a lot of fun and that it was nice to go. Doc and Sonic liked going inside the air conditioned room.
Whether the trip provided air conditioning or a restock on food, it made a very relaxing afternoon.
Katie S., Age 14
On Tuesday morning, we were all instructed after breakfast to pack a lunch, put on closed-toed shoes and bring our water bottles. Why? Because we were going on our annual trip to Yosemite. Clad in matching camp shirts, we piled into the vans and began our journey. We all survived the long, windy road into t
he park, marveling at the scenery between practicing Bible verses. We next held Tabernacle in the woods, where Streetlight talked about the book of Acts. A photography session also occurred as we aligned ourselves to the nearby Half Dome. Then we ate our sack lunches as a group, while spotting many squirrels. Some of us bought treats at the store after that. Then, we were led to a viewing area from which we could see one quarter of Yosemite National Park. It was amazing, but that wasn’t the end. A steep five-mile hike led us down to the vans at the bottom of the mountain. We made it down with only one minor injury and several exhausted campers. A park ranger met us and told us about the meadows of the park and their golden flowers. We piled back into the vans and drove back to camp, just in time for a pizza dinner at 9:00pm.
Daniella W., Age 14
At Camp Gilgal we got the chance to have an espresso cart on the camp grounds. It was really good because there were a lot of things to choose from, from water to delicious milkshakes.
Many of the campers enjoyed trying all the different drinks. This year the drink cups had different Bible verses on them. All the cups blessed the campers. I had Hebrews 11:1: “Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for but not seen.”
It was great that I could go to the espresso cart with my friends: Dorothy, Brighton, Leia and Gabby. We all got different flavors of milkshakes. I got chocolate chip cookie dough and Gabby and Brighton got Oreo milkshakes. I was really encouraged that I got to spend that time getting to know my friends more. It was a great start for the week.
J. Zachary S., Age 15
The whole camp was gathered together at the volleyball court. Rumors about what was going to happen next were floating around the crowd, each person with three different hypotheses (for most of the campers were Jewish). Multiple excellent questions were sounded, all of which the tribe leaders could not answer – I will leave it to the reader to decide whether this “could” was the past tense of “may” or “can.” Suddenly, a voice among the buzzing crowd became prevalent. All the campers grew silent, as this voice was surely the voice that would confirm one of the hypotheses. Still a few chatty voices lingered until their conversation came to an appropriate pause. Then, Streetlight announced that we would be having a water balloon volleyball tournament. The buzz of voices immediately resumed though many of these voices turned from chatting to cheering. Those who were chatting boasted to others about their accurate hypotheses, or reluctantly admitted that they were wrong, showing an awkward regret that they had predicted incorrectly and for comfort, tried to predict the event after water balloon volleyball. At any rate, all were excited about the upcoming event 
and were looking forward to the details of the game. Thus, all quieted when Moose in his excited, cracking voice told the campers that the cabins would make up the teams and (waving his hands, for here was climax of the excitement) added that we were using the blooming Double Bracket Elimination System.
The legendary Maverick had invented this and, when completed, famously stated, “Through the use of math, I have invented a system.” 🙂 Truly, the Double Bracket Elimination System looked like a table of algorithms. Sonic had copied this table for use during the game. Soon, the game started, and two tribes proudly entered their own side with thoughts of tactics and technique running through their minds, most of which were either far-fetched or would contribute a trifling difference for the game. Nonetheless, some of these invented ideas were adopted (eventually by all the teams, for all were watching, their minds split between analysis of the plays and excitement), the most effective of which I will go over here.
The most important technique was to make sure that the campers and tribe leaders holding the part of the tarp nearest the net hold it high, while those holding it farthest from the tarp keep it low, so that when the water balloon was launched, these people far from the net could have as much vertical space as possible to lift the tarp. If done correctly, the balloon should go far (instead of high), being launched like a rock on a catapult. Since it would not go high but it would go far, this left the enemy team less time to follow the balloon and catch it. Why didn’t the enemy team simply be farther away, as they would have to run anyways? Well, one could simply launch the balloon barely over the net, and, since the distance is shorter, the balloon would fall faster, thus creating lots of attention and fret over the small strip of sand around the net, and not letting any team go too far from it. This catapultic technique was further extended to include the horizontal direction of where the balloon went. The “launchers” (those farther from the net) who were
at the corners of the tarp were key to this technique. For example, a launcher on the right corner lifted the tarp extra fast with increased gusto, if that was even possible for a human to do. The balloon would then fly left. Another tactic (that may have not been too good) which people – especially the boys – used was that when a balloon was caught, the team would immediately throw it to the other side, hopefully before they recover from the excitement. The problem with this that the team throwing was usually the more excited team (for they had caught the balloon!). The throws were often unorganized and not coordinated. Meanwhile, the other team was often inspired (by their failure to win a point) to be on their vigil, and would thus often catch it. But in some cases, the throwing team succeeded with a cheer of joy, while the enemy team looked at each other in disbelief. Such was the glorious extent of the amazing inventions of the campers and tribe leaders.
For the first game, Onyx and Eyegore’s cabin went against Sauté’s and Hoop’s cabin. Onyx and Eyegore’s team constantly threw the balloons just barely over the net, and though this surprised the other team a few times it did not work out well later. Meanwhile, Hoop’s and Sauté’s team won, because they threw the balloons far using the catapult method. Thus Sauté’s and Hoop’s cabin won, and most of the other cabins immediately learned from the game. After many close and glorious games, the Double Bracket Elimination System eventually filled up and Simba and Doc’s cabin went against Acorn’s and Waffles’ cabin. The games they played (two games as the system demanded) were both close and many times the balloon fell on the ground. In the end Acorn’s and Waffles’ team won.
After this glorious tournament the male staff played against the female staff. The game was a short skirmish and though the female staff received more cheerleading from the female campers, the male staff emerged victorious, happy to be the winners of a close game. All went back to their respective cabins, the buzz of the chatting resuming again.
Zack W., Age 14
One day we went on a hike. As usual, they didn’t tell us where we were going. We were in a forest. As we were going we saw a little creek. There were also a lot of tree stumps. Some of the people were climbing on them. The tree stumps were huge! As we kept on going we came to a big tree. It was over 2,000 years old. It was called Big Buck. We went because the tree has been alive since Messiah was on earth!
When we were there Moose took a pine cone from the ground. He said that it only can grow when a forest fire releases the seeds, and that fire sometimes is a part of our lives that helps us grow. It was so small compared to the tree. The tree was huge. It was so cool. We had an amazing time looking at a giant thing God has created. Despite finding a host of mosquitos at our destination we were able to marvel at God’s creation and make it safely back to the car.
Conner G., Age 13
Wednesday was another fun day at Camp Gilgal. After our morning activities, the campers split into two groups: one men and the other ladies. While the ladies left to do… something, me and the other men went to the rock wall. It was lots of fun. T
he rock wall had six sections, and I was told that number five was the hardest. There was also a practice wall that you could climb sideways on. I was told to do a wall, so even though I have a small fear of heights I climbed the first one to get it over with. It was fun, though, and maybe I will try it again. My friends, Isaac, Jacob, Ben, David and Rico cheered me on and also climbed different walls. Isaac climbed walls three and five. Elias climbed 
wall two. Jacob climbed one and two. Ben climbed three and half of four. David climbed one and three, and Rico climbed walls three and five. Our tribe leaders, Doc and Simba, were also very helpful. It was Doc who told me that I should try the rock wall in the first place. I don’t think Doc climbed any walls, but Simba tried wall four. He got about half way and stopped. In addition to the fun we had, there were some rules we had to follow and gear we had to wear. To stay safe on the walls we each wore a harness and helmet. I was very glad to have the helmet because on my way to my rock wall another camper slid on his wall and his foot hit my helmet. After I was tied to my wall, there were some commands I had to exchange with the staff member I was working with. I would say, “Belay on?” If the rope was ready the staff member, Daniel, would reply, “Belay on.” Then I would get ready to climb and say, “Climbing.” Daniel would reply, “Climb on.” Our climbing time seemed to end a bit too soon. Times flies when having fun. I recommend anyone who hasn’t tried rock wall climbing or doesn’t want to, to give it a try anyway. They could find it to be fun, like I did.
Dorothy P., Age 14
I know this amazing God
I can’t seem to get Him off my mind
His eyes are always watching
His arms I am always wrapped in
There’s something about the way He sees me
That makes me feel a sudden peace
When He is near I can barely breathe
This to say I truly believe
I can talk to Him about anything
and He will answer everything
His voice is my favorite sound to hear
When He talks, I can’t help but have a listening ear
I know He will never leave me
For He is my perfect peace
Ben R., Age 13
Along with a cabin full of great campers there are two great tribe leaders who help make this cabin complete – Doc, a doctor who seems to have the cure to just about anything, and Simba, a younger trib
e leader who can help lighten up any room. These two help make our cabin complete. Doc is a great guy to be around. He has a great sense of humor and always seems to know the right time to crack a joke. Along with the lighter side of Doc comes a much more serious and wise side. He gives great advice and is a very good mentor. Simba, our other tribe leader, is in many ways quite the same. He’s a guy whose sense of humor and smile can lighten any room, and a guy who can make anyone smile. Much like Doc, he’s a very loyal friend who can take a joke, and can give you advice for just about any problem. In both cases, they’re great guys who love the Lord and will give you prayer whenever you need it. I felt very privileged to be in a cabin with such great people.
Leia B,. Age 13
This year at teen camp Waffles was my tribe leader for the first time and I got so much closer to her. Waffles first went to camp when she was ten years old and that year her tribe leaders were Sheriff and Mighty Mouse. Waffles’ favorite camp memory was when she was tribe leader for Asher and they were 
horseback riding and worshipping at the same time.
Romans 8:35-39 and Psalm 62: 1-2 are Waffles’ favorite verses. If she could go anywhere on vacation it would be Greece. Fudge is her favorite food. Waffles’ favorite color is mint green. Also, she likes bunnies and she loves cooking, baking and taking photos.
As a camper, Waffles met all her best friends at camp and she learned that God is faithful through all circumstances. Waffles is loved by all and will always have a special place in every camper’s heart.
Evan S., Age 14
Hoops is an interesting person. She gets her name from her love of basketball. Hoops goes to Pepperdine University and is majoring in Biology and plans to be a pediatrician, which shows her love for kids.
Hoops
’ favorite sport is basketball, where she earned her name “Hoops.” Her favorite color is orange because it reminds her of a basketball. I was informed that Hoops also enjoys rugby and lacrosse during her free time. Hoops enjoys the campers, which keepers her coming back. Hoops told me her favorite part of camp is getting to know the female campers. Psalm 23 is her favorite chapter of the Bible because even though she walks through the valley of the shadow of death she fears no evil. This verse gives her courage. Her favorite night game at teen camp is Capture the Degel because it is intense and very competitive, which reminds her of her basketball days. Hoops is a great leader and is loved by all. That is why I decided to write about her and her camp experiences.
Ben R., Age 13
The tribe of Dr. Simba is, well, interesting to say the least. Each member brings something new to the table, making our tribe much more interesting.
Sarah K., Age 14
There are many different tribe leaders at camp but there is none quite like Ivory. Her first year at camp was in 2000 as a tribe leader when some of her children in junior camp went to camp. Ivory is married to Doc and has four children. Their oldest child is 33 years old and her name is Leah. Their second oldest child is 32 years old and his name is David. Their last two children are twins, they are 23. Both of them are tribe leaders for Camp Gilgal and their names are Cosmo and Dynamite.
Ivory has light brown curly hair and beautiful brown eyes. She is a 
choir director and an office manager for Doc’s medical practice. Ivory has been playing the piano since she was ten and loves it. Another thing about Ivory is that she has been to India, South Sudan, Romania and Ukraine. In India and South Sudan Ivory ministered the gospel, and in Romania and Ukraine Ivory went to music camps for orphans, gypsy children who are blind and some other kids. Ivory’s favorite part of being a tribe leader is getting to know her tribe and seeing how God is working in their lives.
This year in teen camp I was able to have Ivory as a tribe leader. She is so beautiful and nice and you can just tell how much she loves God. She is easy to talk to and listens to what you have to say. I love Ivory so much and I hope someday I can have her as a tribe leader again.
Abigail M., Age 12
Everyone knows Acorn for her kind ways, her open heart and her completely selfless actions.
She never leaves a camper behind. This year at teen camp, I’ve gotten to know Acorn as a tribe leader and sister. It was my first time getting Acorn as a tribe leader. Throughout this week she has been a tremendous part of my walk with Y’shua, as well as the other wonderful staff.
Here’s a little bit about Acorn:
Her favorite foods are ethnic foods, such as Burmese food, Chinese food and Mexican food. Acorn enjoys mint chocolate chip ice cream. Her favorite shops are Urban Outfitters and Anthropology.
In general, 
Acorn loves animals but her all-time favorites are squirrels and chipmunks. During her free time she likes to play volleyball and take lots of pictures.
Acorn loves to travel and has been to 28 states.
I asked Acorn, “What is your favorite memory from camp?” She replied, “This year at teen camp I made in into the degel circle and helped strategized the lady staff and men’s victory.”
She has grown up with Sparkler, Bologna, Hershey, and Waffles throughout her years at camp. Her first tribe leaders were Skittles and Capo.
Finally, I asked Acorn, “How has camp influenced you throughout all these years?” Acorn replied, “I have truly grown in my relationship with God and camp has made me want to come back as a tribe leader and encourage campers in their faith.”
Matthew L., Age 14
This is my second year of teen camp and probably my favorite year. I am taking some time right now to talk about my cabin. Our cabin was very large and rowdy. There were ten of us in all including the tribe leaders. I am gonna start with Evan. Evan is fourteen and is very enjoyable to have in the cabin. Evan said his fa
vorite part of camp was hanging out with Streetlight. Andrew mostly kept to himself and every so often would toss out a joke. Andrew’s favorite part of camp is the jet skiing at Bass Lake. Josh is a very loud and happy camper. Josh’s favorite part of camp was Yosemite. Max was a very serious camper. Max’s favorite part of camp was the swimming. Another camper was Zach. He was a very logical and fun camper. His favorite part of camp was CTD, aka Capture the Degel. Max C. was a very nice and strong camper. He would always work out inside our cabin. Our tribe leaders were very helpful. Eyegore told us about experiences in his life that were very helpful to me and my fellow campers. Onyx was just a fun and loving tribe leader and sometimes he seemed to act like a camper. All in all, I was excited to be in such a helpful cabin and teen camp was awesome this year!
Max C., Age 14
Q: What is your favorite camp activity?
A: Jet skiing because I get a crazy burst of energy.
Q: Wha
t do you enjoy to play or do during free time?
A: This year I loved playing volleyball.
Q: What is your favorite camp song?
A: Psalm 23 because it has good lyrics and it touches my heart.
Q: What is your favorite color?
A: Red, because it’s cool.
Q: What’s your favorite sport?
A: Dodge ball because it’s fun.
Isaac Y., Age 13
Doc is one of the tribe leaders. He was born in New York City but lives in Salinas, California.
He works as a family doctor and specializes in homeopathy. Doc wanted to go to camp because he loves kids, camps, witnessing and the outdoors. Doc wanted to be a doctor because the Lord told him to, even though he himself did not want to become a doctor. Doc’s funniest thing he has seen as a doctor is a bead stuck up his pastor’s daughter’s nose. The best thing about being a doctor as told by Doc is when the people he helps get better and they do not have to come back.
Doc’s favorite thing about camp is seeing young people learning to follow the Lord.
Doc’s favorite color is green.
Doc’s favorite thing to do at camp is to play music. He plays guitar, saxophone, chapman stick, flute and super cajon.
Doc is also married to Ivory, besides all this great information.
Louisa G., Age 13
This year at camp I got to interview Monarch. She is very interesting. This is her first year at Camp Gilgal, but she loves it and would like to come back. Her favorite part of camp is worship and Tabernacle. She got her name “Monarch” because she loves butterflies.
Monar
ch’s favorite Bible verse is Romans 8:28, “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him.”
While not at camp, Monarch likes to read. Pink is her favorite color and her favorite food is spicy Mexican food. Vanilla is her favorite ice cream flavor.
Monarch is married and has two daughters, Daniella and Gabriella. She wants to visit Israel.
Monarch is an MD in family practice. She loves to treat people, especially campers.
Monarch is a great person and I hope you get to meet her.
Rico M., Age 12
People in my cabin are really funny and fun to hang out with
. My cabin is really dirty sometimes so cabin inspections aren’t fun because we have to get up early and clean up a big mess. But we always end up getting good scores on our cabin. The people in my cabin are Ben, Isaac, Jacob, Elias, David, Conner, Simba, Doc, and me. It’s pretty fun at night. Sometimes we play card games with Conner’s cards. I always seem to lose and then we do our prayers and then we go to sleep.
Doc and Ben play their guitars a lot and they’re both really good at it! Overall it’s fun in our cabin.
Kaleb F., Age 15
Onyx is a
n exceptional person. I have known him for about three years. He is a person who I feel I can go to about anything. What he says to me is greatly valued. He loves to study and learn new things.
His favorite movies include Braveheart, The Lord of the Rings trilogy and lots of Out of the Country titles. He was born in the Michigan area but moved to Orange County. He is currently in college at Biola. He is getting his degree in Psychology. He played football in high school. He played offensive line and defensive line.
Amanda R., Age 13
This year at teen camp I got to interview Sauté! Sauté is my leader. She is so fun, creative and enthusiastic. This is Sauté’s first year being a leader at teen camp
.
Her favorite part of teen camp is the night games. Her favorite color is red-orange. Sauté is French for jump. Sauté is a ballerina. If she wasn’t at camp she would be going to ballet. 😀 She decided to be a leader at teen camp because she wanted to be more involved with Jews for Jesus. Sauté loves dancing and being outdoors. Her favorite verses are Jeremiah 29:11 and James 1:2-3.
Sauté heard about camp through her brother Simba, who heard about it from Bandit. Sauté’s favorite camp foods are the enchiladas and the salads at teen camp. Sauté is an awesome leader and I am looking forward to seeing her next year!
Jacob B., Age 14
When I first heard Eyegore’s story about how he found God’s Son, Jesus the Messiah, I felt like it truly explained what God does for us.
Eyegore grew up in a nonbeliever household where he learned a Jewish culture. He, at the age of eleven, lost his father and from there started a hard seven years of addiction to drugs and rebellion.
When he was at a breakin
g point in his life, he and his friends went to a Christian concert and he heard a man preach the gospel. After he got home he said his first prayer including Jesus in it. From that moment on he was cured from his addiction. He described it as a miracle.
He got clean and started going to church where he met his wife, Cookie, while working for a day care for the church, because he loved kids and seeing them develop their relationship with God.
In conclusion, I really enjoyed Eyegore as a tribe leader and I really enjoyed getting to know him not only as a leader but a friend I can look to for advice.
Destiny A., Age 13
Q: What do you like most about camp?
A: The campers!!!
Q: What do you think about the hike?
A: I think Yosemite is a beautiful place. I am glad the campers got to take the hike. I am glad they had fun and challenged themselves.
Q: What is your favorite food at camp?
A: Tri-tip.
Q: How long have you worked at Camp Gilgal?
A: Since it started in 1991.
Q: Would you say you enjoyed the campers here?
A: Definitely!!! Yeah, that is my favorite part of camp. Without campers there would be no camp.
Q: What is your favorite animal?
A: No favorites. I am a big fan of all animals.
Q: What are your favorite activities at camp?
A: Bass Lake and Yosemite.
Q: How many pets do you own?
A: I own two pet cats, Dodger and Rosie. Dodger is a boy and Rosie is a girl. They think they are dogs.
Q: What is your favorite Bible verse?
A: Philippians 2:1-11.
I really enjoyed interviewing Moose.
Kezia M., Age 14
Here are some fun facts about Snapple: Her favorite ice cream flavor is mint chocolate chip. She loves pickles and drinking Snapple. Her favorite part of camp is spending time with the campers and Bass Lake. Her least favorite c
amp foods are French toast and beef sandwiches. She has been going to camp for 13 years as a camper and six years as staff. Her favorite Snapple flavors are Lemon Tea, Diet Peach Tea and Trop-A-Rocka Tea, and her favorite color is green. She is so much fun to be around, and she is the coolest tribe leader ever! Her favorite camp memory as a camper was winning tribe of the year with her cabin and spending all their money on Chinese food. Her favorite movie is Stand By Me. Her favorite things to do are going on a roller coaster, coming to camp, traveling, hanging out with friends and baking.
Snapple is such a cool tribe leader. She gives great advice and is always willing to listen to you. She likes to drink tomato juice, wears the coolest rings and is the most amazing tribe leader in the world!
Gabby W., Age 13
Here’s a glimpse of my cabin, which includes Acorn and Waffles as tribe leaders and Vika, Leia, Destiny, Eliana, Abbey and myself (Gabby). We were all chosen to live together for a week. While driving to camp all of us were in the same van. The first day we were warmly introduced by all the tribe l
eaders. Later we were given a cabin and then got acquainted. At around six we went to dinner and sat as a tribe.
After worship we settled down and started devotions. Then it was time to sleep.
When I woke up everyone was slowly blossoming and creating new friendships. After we woke up and ate we got in the vans and headed to Yosemite. While we were there we went on a four mile hike. On the hike we talked to most of our friends and our cabin mates.
On the third day we put all our friendships to the test during initiatives. There were three sections. In the first one it required us to build a bridge which made us communicate and have a strategy. The second section required us to stand on a tree log and get in order from tallest to shortest. This made us work as a team and talk. The last section required us to reach a rope wing and reach the ElevatedIsland. To me this was the hardest activity. This section made us consider something that might be harder for other people.
Later than night we played Capture the Degel. It was men with ladies tribe leaders against the ladies with men tribe leaders. Leia and I grouped up and found Vika and Eliana. On the fourth day we went to Bass Lake, and you could swim, jet ski and go on a banana pulled by a ski boat. Almost everyone did something with a cabin member.
I hope the next two days go wonderful and that we hopefully talk over the year and see each other next year.
Judi W., Age 13
I asked Streetlight what her favorite color is, what her favorite Bible verse is, what she does outside of camp, how long she’s been a tribe leader, and why she wants to go to Feords and ride a whale.
She answered: Navy blue. 1 Peter 5:7: “Cast all your cares upon the Lord because He cares for you.” She likes to get her nails done, she goes to school and she writes music.
She’s been a tribe leader since 2007. She wants to go to Feords because it is beautiful and incredibly mysterious. She wants to ride a whale because they are also beautiful and incredibly mysterious, and also because who doesn’t want to ride a whale anyhow.
Streetlight is very kind and is full of compassion towards all the staff and campers at camp.
She is very helpful to all that ask her. Streetlight is part of my family. She wants to be there for everyone. She is very loveable.
“Now choose life, so that you and your children may live and that you may
love the Lord your God, listen to His voice, and hold fast to Him.”
The Gilgal Gazette is published by Camp Gilgal campers for Camp Gilgal campers and their families and friends!
Tribe of Asher: Beau N., Daniel V., Joseph S., Keane R., Nathanael D., Tripp, Shades
Tribe of Judah: Abigail O., Alyssa C., Eden A., Sierra K., Sivan M., Yael S., Chickpea, Bologna
Tribe of Dan: Daniel C., Eithan S., Ephraim L., Gavyn R., Ilan T., Josiah O., Swank, Floyd
Tribe of Issachar: Mariya A., Naomi W., Nena K., Rebekah C., Simona B., Baby Carrots, Hershey
Tribe of Benjamin: Aaron C., Elliot A., Ethan M., Isaiah H., Simeon G., Kicks, Scooter
Tribe of Reuben: Abby D, Hannah K., Kayla C., Netanya W., Shira S., Nemo, Froggy
Out of cabin: Twister, Blewish, RedSox, Fresco
Beau N., Age 11
Tribe of Asher
One day when I was at the pool I realized that a mental fly wouldn’t leave me alone. I decided to catch the fly.
I was outside the pool chilling so I went to the side of the pool and submerged the bug underwater. I then noticed that the bug was squirming around. I kept the bug underwater for ten minutes. I let the fly come up and it was alive! It was crazy. Its wings were crumpled and wet. Somehow it flew away. What a miracle.
Sivan M., Age 11
Tribe of Judah 
One after another, Baby Carrots inadvertently spilled her hot water on her hand. As she innocently got some hot water for a nice cup of tea, the water mysteriously sprayed out oddly, drenching her hand in a scorching, burning stream of water. This was followed by a panicked spill of the rest of her cup. These combined brought her no cup of deliciously warming tea but a blackened hand, burning pain, and a trip to the nurse.
Rebekah C., Age 11
Tribe of Issachar
At Camp Gilgal there is a variety of animals. First I would like to start with walking to breakfast, lunch, and dinner. As you walk to breakfast, lunch, or dinner you’ll pass some turtles or tadpoles. Next at counselor hunt you’ll probably see little frogs or one or two snakes. Some other day you might see a rabbit family or several butterflies flying around Camp Gilgal. Also, you will see a lot of chipmunks around camp. Also you better watch out for bugs. I love wild life at Camp Gilgal and I think you will too.
Eithan S., Age 9
Tribe of Dan
I made a bracelet to give to my mom. I made it out of red, blue, and yellow strings. RedSox helped me make the bracelet. It looked really nice.
We went to campfire and we were going back to the cabin and then my bracelet was gone in the morning. I was walking and then I found my bracelet while walking through the grass. Because it was gone and I found it I was happy.
Netanya W., Age 8
Tribe of Reuben
I really love tribe time. First tribe time, we painted our nails and we painted Blewish’s nails and we painted them green, blue, purple, pink, and lavender. We played Marco Polo, too. Blewish danced like a ballerina with us when his nails dried. I can’t believe Blewish let us paint his nails!! It was fun. I can’t wait for next tribe time!
Simona B., Age 10
Tribe of Issachar
Hello fellows. My name is Simona, I am ten, and I am in the tribe of Issachar. Back to my story, although I haven’t started yet. I am about to tell you about the history of turtles! But special ones. Here we go.
Once upon a time there lived…a pond. On the walk to the dining hall for breakfast, lunch, and dinner you would see it. It is very mysterious, but according to my calculations, the turtles came from…Jimmy and Denny the turtles. They had lived in the pond forever, ten years. One day, Denny gave birth to 16 babies at one time! They were very happy with their lives. The youngest turtle (by one minute) made quick friends. The other 15 grew up to be racers. Then, the youngest turtle (his name is Monk) met a girl turtle and had 16 more babies! That’s why when you walk to breakfast, lunch and dinner, you see TURTLES! (Special ones.)
Daniel C., Age 7
Tribe of Dan
I was at Counselor Hunt and was walking with Gavyn and Ephraim. I stopped to tie my shoe, and the others kept walking. When I finished, I tried to follow the others, but they were gone. I looked and looked, but I couldn’t find them. Soon, I joined up with a group of girls until we found Kicks, who was very hard to get back. We tried and tried. At that point, we were so far from everyone else that when the whistle was blown, we didn’t hear it. We were lost. After some time, we saw Blewish. He had been looking for us because we were lost. The hunters became the hunted.
Josiah O., Age 9
Tribe of Dan 
Number 1: Do NOT kill plants! Do not stomp on anything. It is foolish! Also do not rip trees out of the ground (unless it’s your favorite tree and there’s an earthquake). Do not pluck petals off of roses, etc., etc.
Number 2: Ways to avoid killing animals: When a bunny comes near an archery target, aim at the target instead of the bunny. Hint, if a bee comes up to you, just squish it. If you meet a bear, don’t pick up a sharp stone and stab the bear, just run for your life.
The End.
Eden A., Age 11
Tribe of Judah
Incoming! Incoming! This just in: the Blewish Twister is approaching at 200 mph, and is coming in about four and a half hours this way! Things you might need: a jumbo pack of Baby Carrots, Bologna, Shades (just in case), and a couple pieces of Strings.
And just in case, you might also need: Red Sox for a Swank outfit, a Scooter, and an emergency packet of Hershey Kisses, Sneakers, and your Nemo and Froggy stuffed toys. This zooming Twister leaves cities in a kurffufle and tosses towns like salad. Make sure nobody Kicks you, making you Tripp. While listening to Pink Floyd, eating Chickpeas, and Starburst(s), you should look at Aquamarine Fresco(s). Make sure that this amazing Twister doesn’t Zap you on your way out. It’s definitely a destroyer!
Simone B., Age 10
Tribe of Issachar
Hello! My name is Simone. I am in the tribe of Issachar and I am ten years old. At this awesome camp, there is something called “tribe time.” It is a time that you get to spend with your tribe and your TLs and ATLs pick something fun to do, whether it’s going to the park, doing nails, etc.
Once, for the first tribe time ever in 2009, we went PUDDLE JUMPING! It was rainy that year at camp and there were tons of puddles. We got in clothes we didn’t care about getting dirty and we jumped away. Then we took a shower. It ROCKED!
Another time, in 2012, this year, we made really funny hats. It was a band out of construction paper. We each made pictures that represent us. There were hearts, sandwiches, turtles, etc. I did cheese! It looked so good and it was so fun!
I really look forward to tribe time all the time.
Yael S., Age 11
Tribe of Judah
One evening we were playing Counselor Hunt.
Me and Abby were partners. We started the game. All the campers were looking for tribe leaders. Me and Abby walked until we saw something. We went closer and closer. It was Scooter. We caught him, and this animal is crazy! The only thing he said was, “Floyd, Floyd, Floyd!” He kept going the wrong way to Sunset! It took a group of campers to get him back to Sunset. I was exhausted but I had fun.
Ethan M., Age 10
Tribe of Benjamin
Your mission, if you choose to accept it, is MI, also known as Mission 
Impossible. It is when you have to find clues that are hidden at night. You have a flashlight, but you only turn it on when you have a clue. Here are some of my tactics: (1) If a flashlight is turning to you, hide behind a tree, or if all else fails, lie flat on the ground. (2) Always stay quiet so you can’t be heard. (3) Dress in black clothing to have camouflage. (4) Stay together as a tribe so you don’t get lost. (5) Read your clues carefully so you don’t get caught. If you use these tactics you might win.
Mariya A., Age 11
Tribe of Issachar
Hi! My name is Mariya. One of my favorite things at Camp Gilgal is “theme meals.” My favorite theme meal is actually “Twin Night.” Twin Night is when two or more people look alike. For example, they wear the same clothes. Well, my twins were Nena and one of my tribe leaders, Baby Carrots. We wore last year’s Camp Gilgal shirt and black shorts. My favorite twins were Twister and Strings. They finished each other’s sentences which made me laugh so much.
Isaiah H., Age 10
Tribe of Benjamin 
Before campfire we played a game called Counselor Hunt. When I got into the woods, all of the tribe leaders were hiding. It was windy and scary. All I heard was the crunching of the leaves. My friend said, “C’mon, let’s go up the hill!” I said, “No way.” I kept walking. It started to drizzle and I heard the raindrops jumping off the leaves. We were really deep in the woods. I got so scared so I ran as fast as I could back and I saw Nemo. I took her and dragged her and she kept yelling, “My father’s that way! My father’s that way!” But I brought her back and we won!
Kayla C., Age 9
Tribe of Issachar
On Fashion Disaster Night everyone looks so weird. You can put on two different shoes or wear leggings and shorts on top. I saw Chickpea wear a trench coat, a rain boot, a flip flop, and she carried a water gun! Nemo was wearing a t-shirt, overalls, a plaid shirt, and a ribbon on her head. I was wearing two different shirts that do not go together and a flip flop with a sneaker and my hair was all crazy. Fashion Disaster is so much fun.
Abigail D., Age 8
Tribe of Reuben 
Almost every night, we go to a campfire. When we get to the campfire, we pray, we sing songs, we do some verses, and we listen to someone speaking. When we go back to our cabin and we put on our PJs, we brush our teeth, then we do devotions and then we go to bed. I like campfire. It’s a far walk, it takes place at sunset, my favorite song is At a Time Like This and we have to put on some bug spray.
Josiah O., Age 9
Tribe of Dan
It was Counselor Hunt time and Ilan, Ethan and me were buddies. Twister was telling us what to do, and since I was the oldest I had to look after Ilan and Ethan. We were walking down one of the paths and then we bumped into some boys (about four, with 
two girls later), so we joined them. But we really should have taken a different path because we seemed to have reached the road that was close by. So we decided to go the other way but we just went deeper into the woods. Then we went down the other path and turned down a path that went to the right. Eventually it looked familiar and we started to run because we wanted to get back to campfire so that we wouldn’t get lost again. As I was running along with the group I looked behind me for some reason and saw a black lump sitting against a tree so I screamed, “A TRIBE LEADER, A TRIBE LEADER, C’MON!” In about five seconds the older boys caught them and when I saw them I saw that it was Nemo!! Then we started pushing her to campfire and she kept saying, “My daddy’s that way!” But we said, “No, your father is this way, we assure you.” Once Nemo almost went down a random path nearby but we caught her arm before she could get away. Then, we brought her to campfire.
The End.
Naomi W., Age 10
Tribe of Issachar
Do you ever feel like running around? You know, like getting crazy. Well, if you do then come to Camp Gilgal where we have field sports. That’s when you play sports, do activities, or team activities. I do field sports and it is so much fun. Because in field sports, you’re with all your friends and tribe leaders and we do a lot of unique, AWESOME games like Fruit Basket, Newcomer, and soccer. If you don’t know these games then you’re just going to have to try them out and see how much fun they are. I bet you’re going to LOVE it!
The End.
Hannah K., Age 9
Tribe of Reuben
I love horse day, do you? It is not so far to get there. We had to cross the road. I got Lily, one of the horses. She kept on stopping. We had to do exercises on the horses. It was fun. We played Follow the Leader on the horse. We also did Around the World on it. I love horses!
Daniel V., Age 12
Tribe of Asher
“Gilgal Gazette! Get yours for free!” Today’s story is about three tribes (mostly two) who were water fighting!
It all started when Scooter (tribe of Benjamin) had water balloons and threw them at a camper, and that’s how it started.
All the tribe leaders rejoined and started to attack while the campers were getting their guns. After a lot of fun and screaming we stole water balloons and started to throw them.
When Floyd (ATL of Dan) wanted to help me I said, “Yeah, sure.” So then we started to fight side by side until we heard “Last ammo, no refills.” Floyd was already out so I took it like the Hunger Games. “Survival!” When we heard that we won we were glad to beat most of the tribe leaders. Tribe time is amazing! I also say thank you to the tribes of Dan, Asher, and Benjamin for having a lot of fun!
Shira S., Age 9
Tribe of Reuben
Camp Gilgal took a trip to a baseball game! The home team was the Valley Cats. The other team was the Spikes. The Spikes won. After the game they had different music playing. Everyone was dancing. Especially Shades; Shades was dancing like a hula queen. Next there were fireworks. They were spectacular! They were all different colors. The baseball game was really fun!!
Ethan M., Age 11
Tribe of Benjamin
It was archery, one of my favorite activities. I was pulling back my arrow, aiming for the target. I let go of my arrow, and instead of hitting my target, I hit the target next to mine. I hit the green, which is third best! (The targets were ten feet away from each other.) I was really surprised, and taking out the arrow was really hard. Another time, I hit the bull’s eye on my target. Archery is fun and I hope I can take it again.
Nathanael D., Age 11
Tribe of Asher
Claymation is an activity that involves clay animations and creating things like characters and clay props out of nothing and a big 
imagination. So what you would do is create some characters from clay, some props, a scene and a background. Once you are finished creating, you can start “filming.” To move your character around you would take a picture (the activity leader would), then slightly move your character in the direction or action it will go or do. The reason you move it slightly is because it will make the animation smoother. If you move it too far it will look like one giant motion and it will look terrible. That is pretty much the only disadvantage. I personally think that Claymation is one of the best activities there is! If you choose Claymation, you won’t regret picking it!
Ilan T., Age 9
Tribe of Dan
In the Gilgal bank you have money. When the bank is open the snack shop is always open. So one by one we are in line to get our money so we can buy snacks to eat. I like my bank!
Ilan T., Age 9
Tribe of Dan
When I went horseback riding it was really cool! My horse was a she and her name was Dela. She was really nice. I did very well. I like the part where we go left and right and stop and go. I also like where we say yee-ha, whoa, and giddy up! We all like it very much. When we were done we walked back to our cabins.
Daniel C., Age 7
Tribe of Dan
On Wednesday, the Fourth of July, my tribe leaders had a surprise for me. It was a field trip to a baseball game. We took a bus there. I ate cotton candy and then had a cream soda and then at the end of the day there were fireworks. It was a great day.
Simeon B., Age 11
Tribe of Benjamin
On July third the tribes of Benjamin and Dan participated in the Great Water War of Gilgal 2012.
It started with a cup of water around the picnic tables, and soon became a civil war within the tribe of Benjamin. One of the kids of Dan threw water along with the tribe of Benjamin and soon Dan was intertwined in the water extravaganza.
The water war was started by a camper named Simeon and his ATL. After many cups of water the camper pulled out a water gun and from it progressed into a full out war all over the boys area. Even the staff fought in the war.
It was truly the best tribe time ever!
Elliot A., Age 10
Tribe of Benjamin
Hi everybody, I am writing about craft time and about making leather belts. Fresco, Nemo, and Kicks teach crafts. To make a leather belt, first you need to soften the leather by putting water on it. Then you stamp your belt with patterns or your name or both. Then you put on your loop and buckle. Next you punch your holes and finally you stain and glaze. They are all done, but we have not worn them because we don’t get them until the end of camp. Mine is fudge brown and the pattern is the following: fish, feather, buffalo, feather, and leaf. Eventually, I stamped my name. I think that Joseph’s belt is the best.
Joseph S., Age 11
Tribe of Asher
On the field trip, we stopped for dinner. We had a sandwich, apples, oranges, 
and cookies. Then we went into the baseball stadium! Then we found our seats and we watched the baseball game. It was so fun! I bought a Styrofoam hand and then I bought cheese fries and then I saw the fireworks display. They had the best fireworks display. They were the best!
Sivan M., Age 12
Tribe of Judah
We are the tribe of Judah, and our symbol is the lion. Our group is composed of six campers and two awesome staff members. The campers are Sivan, Eden, Sierra, Alyssa, Yael, and Abigail. Our wonderful tribe leader and ATL (assistant tribe leader) are Chickpea and Bologna. Our interests include silent football and singing about a number of odd things including facial hair. We are the oldest girl tribe and we love it!! Shout out from Camp Gilgal 2012! Aww yeah!
Tribe of Dan 
We are the youngest guys tribe, and our name is the tribe of Dan. The tribe consists of Ilan T., Eithan S., Gavyn R., Daniel C., Josiah O., and Ephraim L. The leaders for our tribe are Floyd and Swank. Our favorite game was Hide in Cabin. To play the tribe leader leaves the cabin till we find a place to hide. Our favorite hiding places were in our suitcases, under bunks, and any place we could find quickly. We had a lot of fun this year and want to come back again.
Tribe of Benjamin
The tribe of Benjamin is the mid-age cabin. It consists of Elliot, Ethan, Isaiah, Aaron, Simeon, Kicks, and Scooter. Scooter is the tribe leader. He is awesome. Kicks is our ATL. He is…cool. We all mostly just kind of talk and maybe play some games. Our tribe is boss. We have a lot of fun. We are a pretty chill tribe most of the time. Elliot loves Star Wars and he talks a lot and it can drive us crazy at times. Ethan likes to have fun. He can get pretty hyper sometimes. Isaiah, or Izzy as everyone calls him, evens out the cabin. He is super chill. Aaron just chills most of the time. Simeon can be pretty silent at times, but he can be pretty random and fun. We’re a reflectively interesting group of people.
Tribe of Reuben
The tribe of Reuben? The youngest ladies’ tribe at Camp Gilgal is an awesome tribe! It is made up of Kayla, Hannah, Netanya, Shira, and Abby. It’s led by the amazing duo of Froggy and Nemo.
Although most of the members of our tribe are newbies at camp, we know how things work around here, especially cabin clean-up! We’ve gotten 100s on cabin inspection five times—that must be record!
Everyone in our tribe has a great personality. Kayla is very silly. Hannah is always energetic. Netanya is a great storyteller. Shira likes busting out her moves. Abby keeps everyone laughing. Froggy and Nemo couldn’t have asked for a more crazy, talented, fun, amazing tribe!
Tribe of Issachar
We’re the tribe of Issachar. We have five girls, whose names are Mariya, 
Simona, Nena, Naomi, and Rebekah. We also have two tribe leaders whose names are Hershey and Baby Carrots. We all like to do things together and we’re all different. Simona likes to calm stuff, has hyper moments, and likes to help. Mariya likes to draw things, do cabin clean-up, and F.O.B. Rebekah is very athletic and not afraid of anything and loves to draw. Naomi is super fast and loves to dance and smile. Baby Carrots loves baby carrots. Hershey loves chocolate. Nena has a good sense of fashion, you can’t stop her from talking, and she loves pink.
Shira S., Age 9
Tribe of Reuben
Today I interviewed Strings. I asked her what her favorite cereal mascot was. She said Cinnamon Toast Crunch squares because they creep her out. I also asked her what book of the Bible is her favorite. Her answer is James. I found out Strings’ name is Strings because she plays the violin. If Strings was a dog she would be a purple poodle because purple is her favorite color and she got a stuffed purple poodle from her grandfather.
Nena K., Age 10
Tribe of Issachar
Hershey is in the tribe of Issachar and is Issachar’s ATL. I have observed that Hershey loves her chocolate and the color pink. Hershey is awesome because she loves pink, and she loves everyone and treats everyone equally and she is like a handful of sunshine.
Now to the interview part. I asked Hershey why she chose her name. She said it was because she really, really LOVES chocolate. Then I asked what her favorite color is. And she said blue because it reminds her of the ocean. I also asked Hershey what is her least favorite craft. She said anything that takes a long time. Last but not least, I asked Hershey what is her favorite drink, and she said any drink with chocolate. And that was my interview with Hershey.
Isaiah H., Age 10
Tribe of Benjamin
Kicks is the best tribe leader ever. If he were to be any super hero he would be Deadpool! I always wonder why he calls himself Kicks. He calls himself Kicks because he collects a lot of shoes! He’s been with Jews for Jesus for ten years. If he were to jump into a pool of Jell-O or pudding he would choose pudding. His favorite food is pizza. He likes it because it’s awesome! Kicks is the best tribe leader ever!
Aaron C., Age 11
Tribe of Benjamin
Scooter is the best tribe leader ever. He has been at camp for six years, three as a camper and two as a leader, and one as both. He has known Kicks for ten days. Scooter is seventeen years old with zero pets. His favorite food is Chinese food. His favorite bunk is the middle, left, bottom. His favorite pattern is stripes.
His favorite outfit is a button-down plaid shirt, black tie, watch, skinny jeans, and shoes with toe straps. He would dye his hair glow-in-the-dark purple. He lets us play Silent Ball before bed, if we’re quiet. I interviewed Scooter because he is the most awesome tribe leader!
Tribe of Judah
Fresco, my mom, is very creative and smart. Her favorite dog breed is the English cream/gold retriever and her closest friend in NYC is Victoria A., the mom of my friend, Eden! Fresco loves to make things with her hands and serve others. The most embarrassing thing that she did was accidently walk into the boys’ bathroom in junior high school! Her favorite color is yellow. She was proposed to more than once, but only said yes to my dad, Hobbes!
David K., Age 11
Tribe of Simeon
Many people would love to be Star Wars characters. Many of the staff would love to be some of those characters. I asked eight people which characters they want to be.
The first person I asked was Tripp. He first wanted to be Jar Jar Binks, but then switched to Han Solo. He picked Han Solo because he is awesome. The second person I asked was Shades and he picked a Jawa. He picked a Jawa because they’re funny, smart, and amazing. The third person I asked was Swank and he picked Chewbacca. I would understand why he would pick Chewbacca because they are both hairy and I was correct. The fourth person I asked was Scooter. Scooter loves being underwater so he picked to be a Jedi that breathes underwater. It reminds me of Aquaman, but that’s a different topic.
The fifth person I asked was Fresco. She said that she wanted to Princess Leia because she’s beautiful and brave. The sixth person I interviewed was Strings. She wanted to be a decoy version of Padmé because of her ninja skills. The last people I asked were Aquamarine and Twister. Aquamarine picked the just plain Padmé Amidala. She picked Padmé because she’s in the background but does a lot of damage and work. Twister picked Luke Skywalker. Luke Skywalker was a hero throughout the last episodes. It would be funny if there was a Gilgal Galaxy.
Sierra K., Age 12
Tribe of Judah
This year at camp we have a new staff member from Michigan. His name is Kicks. His favorite colors are green and electric indigo. I’ve never even heard of those colors! I also happen to have learned that he can’t lick his elbow. His favorite lunch meat is cold cut chicken. He also happens to choose Jacob over Edward for a reason he does not know. Kicks has three siblings. He got here on a train. And you probably guessed that the name Kicks has something to do with shoes. It does! He collects shoes as a hobby. His favorite brands are Nike SB and Air Jordans. Now you know a little bit about the leader we call Kicks.
Netanya W., Age 8
Tribe of Issachar
I interviewed Froggy and Froggy’s favorite color is purple. And Froggy’s favorite animal is a frog. And Froggy’s favorite sport is basketball. Her favorite book is the Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe. Froggy’s favorite TV show is The Office. Her favorite camp is Camp Gilgal and her favorite color eyes are hazel.
Ephraim L., Age 7
Tribe of Dan
Swank’s favorite color is yellow, submarine yellow. His favorite animal is an armadillo. Swank means tank with swag in it. Swank’s best friend is Nike. Swank’s favorite subject is kinesiology (sports science) and English. He’s the best tribe leader.
Keane R., Age 12
Tribe of Asher
Tripp is my tribe leader in the tribe of Asher. He is amazing. When I interviewed Tripp, he answered all my questions and his favorite color is blue. He likes to eat cinnamon rolls and he likes the drums. If he were to be any planet he would be Mercury. Tripp’s favorite cartoon is Tom and Jerry. Tripp is 18 years old, and he likes archery. I think that Tripp is the coolest tribe leader in camp.
Kayla C., Age 9
Tribe of Reuben
Do you know Chickpea because I do and she is an exciting girl. Chickpea’s favorite color is purple and her favorite sport is fencing. Some instruments she plays are violin, kazoo, and guitar. Pikachu is her favorite cartoon character, and her favorite food is sushi. Can you believe it, her favorite movie is Star Wars! Her least favorite movie is Dear John. I also asked Chickpea if she was a superhero what would her power be and she said shape shifting, which is changing your body into a bird, tree, or someone else or anything like that.
Gavyn R., Age 9
Tribe of Dan
Floyd is the ATL in my cabin. Floyd, answer these questions:
Q: What’s your favorite color?
A: It’s gold.
Q: What’s your favorite type of ice cream?
A: I love vanilla ice cream.
Q: What do you want for your birthday?
A: I want a top hat.
Q: What type of pet do you like most?
A: Dogs.
Q: What is your favorite time of your life?
A: Night time, when I am asleep.
Floyd completed the test!
Sivan M., Age 11
Tribe of Judah 
Shades has brightened my day every time I see him. His oddly humorous jokes are as funny as they are weird.
Our combined tribe times revealed more than what is on the funny outside. It shows a mouth-opening humor that has no end. If an unaware camper exclaims something weird, the unexpected response is, “You’re such a Keebler elf!” His random comments make us laugh our time away.
“But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
The Gilgal Gazette is published by Camp Gilgal campers for Camp Gilgal campers
and their families and friends!
Tribes:Tribe of Issachar: Aaron M., Gregory V., Henry S., Malkiel A., Misha K., Scooter, Tauros
Tribe of Judah: Anaelle S., Daniela R., Esther C., Hannah D., 
Liza C., Masha K., Sabrina M., Tova S., Froggy, Chickpea
Tribe of Dan: Daphne N., Devora W., Elizabeth D., Kaylie L., Ketzia B., Leelle S., Lydia C., Sarah M., Baby Carrots, Strings
Out of cabin: Twister, Blewish, RedSox, Flipper
Misha K., Age 13
Tribe of Issachar
Whether it be socks or even campers, everything was on the floor. Swim suits, tooth brushes, my little ponies, angry birds, shoes, and even a giant Toras, just lying there sadly on the floor. Scooter and Toros were burping, snoring, and filling the cabin air with the smell of decayed bodies. Hats and gloves, and not to mention all the mosquitos and moths, it was horrible, yet fun at the same time.
Esther C., Age 15
Tribe of Judah
At camp one of the things that I like the most is the food. The food at camp is really good, and I love coming in and eating all the food I want. My favorite breakfast is waffles because we get whipped cream, chocolate, and fruit. My favorite lunch is make your own sandwich day because they have soft bread, good cheese, and good varieties of toppings. My favorite dinner is smiley fries because they are amazing! We didn’t have smiley fries this year but they are my favorite.
Tova S., Age 14
Tribe of Judah
Camp Gilgal is a Jews for Jesus summer camp that runs for a week. During this, we did many diverse and creative activities. We had the opportunity to go play paintball, we went on a camping trip followed by a white water rafting adventure. This camp is not only about the entertaining activities we participated in, but also about a unique spiritual experience.
It gave us a chance to get close to God because of how different it is from normal life and had no worldly distractions. Our leaders and counselors guided us as best they could. They were always open to discuss and help us with any problems. Every year that I come I find myself growing in my faith and my personal relationship with God. Camp Gilgal has been a superlative experience that I would encourage anyone else to have as well.
Devora W., Age 13
Tribe of Dan
Tribe time is when you spend time with your tribe. During tribe time you can do things like playing games, painting your nails, or whatever you and your tribe enjoy doing. Tribe time is fun and it brings you closer with your tribe.
You can hang out outside or hang out in your cabin. For an example, this year during tribe time with my cabin, we went outside in the woods and played Apples to Apples. Another time this year, we all painted our nails. However, it is different for each cabin. It’s up to your leaders what you do for tribe time.
Lydia C., Age 13
Tribe of Dan
The tribe leaders told us that the Decathlon was today after lunch. But I didn’t know what the Decathlon was. The Decathlon is a really fun race competition thing.
So, later on we had dinner. I ate a LOT!
Then, right after dinner was the Decathlon, and we had to stuff ourselves with crackers. It was hard being so stuffed as I was. Then, we had to chug down sodas and that was even harder. I managed to finish my can of soda then I had to help my friend Devora finish hers. We lost that round. Oops!
My team’s name was Losers to Winners, and the other team’s name was Jewnicorns. Anyway, we won the Decathlon. Thanks for reading!
Daphne N., Age 13
Tribe of Dan
Scream-o is my most favorite thing at camp. It is my favorite activity because it is an intense game 
that you play with a partner against other partners. During Scream-o you and your partner have cards numbered from 2-12 all spread out. Then, as you’re playing against another partner, you roll the die and whatever that number is you turn over that numbered card. The goal of the game is to roll the die to get all of yours and your partner’s cards flipped over. Once you do that, you and your partner stand up and yell, “SCREAM-O!” This game involves lots of yelling and math, but even though I hate math and am really bad at it, the game is really is fun and intense.
P.S. I was the first person to get Scream-o—actually, it was me and Blewish.
Masha K., Age 14
Tribe of Judah
This year at camp we had an activity about bugs. We had to catch as many bugs as we could. It was boys against girls, and we went into the bathroom and just outside and put the bugs in the cups. We mostly found moths. Then we put all the bugs into one cup thinking they’d eat each other. Instead they just went crazy trying to get out. The people that were there were Tova, Greg, Malkiel, Leelle, and Misha. And the tribe leaders were Baby Carrots and Froggy. I really liked it because the bugs were pretty and they were doing funny stuff in the cup.
Liza C., Age 15
Tribe of Judah
The Adirondacks is an amazingly awesome place. While there, you can swim, 
camp, and white water raft, as we did. You can also climb mountains, fish, ski (in the winter), and do many other activities that passers-by see on road signs.
We first camped out at the Schroon River campsite in Warrensburg, New York. We set up our tent, then unpacked our backpacks out of the vans. A few minutes later, we walked to the pool. I was surprised; it was a saltwater pool. When I just found out, I thought it was an imitation of the ocean. Truly, it was only replacing the chlorine. After a while (we had no clocks), we went back for a dinner of burgers and veggies, s’mores, and a campfire.
The next day we went white water rafting. I was in a boat with four other girls and two tribe leaders: Scooter and Baby Carrots. We rafted on two rivers, the thinner Indian for four and half miles, and the great, mighty Hudson for countless miles. It was more fun, yet scarier, than I expected; in fact, I got a face full of wave and liked it! All in all, the Adirondacks is an amazing place for a camping trip.
Kaylie L. and Leelle S., Ages 12 and 13
Tribe of Dan
White water rafting was so exciting! At every twist and turn a new experience had begun. It was exhilarating when a drop came out of nowhere. White water rafting was an awesome experience. 
Paddling was a challenge: whenever the rapids became harsh more strength was needed. Rapids called Bust Stop, Rattle Mountain, and Jiffy Pop were terrifying and thrilling. On different rapids different people got to sit on the bow of the boat and ride it like a bull through the rapids. Attempting to surf which tips the boat while everyone shifts to the front to get a mouthful of water was difficult. The amount of strength needed was overwhelming. And try as we might, we couldn’t succeed getting to the point.
The whole experience was a blast! Surfing, paddling, and rocking through the rapids was an experience of a lifetime.
Aaron M., Age 14
Tribe of Issachar
At camp we had the Decathlon. At the Decathlon we had ten different games. 
The first event was the alphabet game. What we would do is take the first letter on a sign, and we would find those letters in alphabetical order while we were driving. The next event was the eating saltines and whistle game. Each team had to east a box of saltines and then whistle to Sox or Blewish.
One of my favorite events was the spinning in circles event. It was a test of endurance and balance, and we spun around for close to 20 minutes. The team with the most people standing at the end won. Another event was to build a flower basket out of duct tape. Another event was the catching fireflies event. Each team had to show three fireflies. The team that won showed the same fireflies three times. One of the other events was to write a team haiku. Our teams had to write and present a haiku to the judges.
The Decathlon was a lot of fun and I can’t wait to do it again next year.
Gregory V., Age 13
Tribe of Issachar
In Camp Gilgal-Jews for Jesus, we go on a camping trip. It is so much fun. We go pack our stuff and go to our camping spot. We could go swimming or go to the game room. And the best thing is when we go make s’mores. When we go to bed we see so many stars and sometimes we see some constellations. So if you’re going to teen camp get ready for the time of your life.
Sabrina M., Age 15
Tribe of Judah
At camp every year we do Decathlon. 
We drive around and buy food and drinks. Then we have two teams that compete for who eats or drinks faster. We had a pickle competition to see which team can throw pickles farther. We also had to make a flower basket out of duct tape. We made a haiku, too. There was a soda drinking contest, cracker eating, and house building out of marshmallows and grahams. There were ten events in all. It was really fun and teams had a tie. One person from each team had to stand on one leg as a tiebreaker. My favorite part was the pickle one. It was original and funny.
Elizabeth D., Age 13
Tribe of Dan
Scream-O is an intense game played with cardboard numbers and dice. You and a partner sit diagonal to each other and the other team does too. To begin, both teams will roll the dice to see who goes first; the team with the 
highest number starts. It was so fun during the game with everyone racing against each other. So, you have numbers from two to twelve and when you roll the dice, and say you get a nine, you flip over the nine in the cardboard numbers. You keep rolling until you get another nine. So your partner will flip over her/his nine. But the next time you get a nine, the other team gets to start rolling. Scream-O is my most favorite game because it’s very intense and you get to yell a lot. The goal of the game is to get to the first table and stay there. If you’re the first team to flip over all of your cards, you stand up and yell “SCREAM-O!” It’s so fun and super intense.
Dani R., Age 14
Tribe of Judah
Every year, the Gilgal teen camp packs up and leaves the cabins. We go to a different campsite. This year, the weather was perfect, so we were able to swim, sit outside instead of in the tents, and do other activities. Also, there is a general store where we could buy food, drinks, and supplies. We ate delicious burgers and cooked s’mores. After getting ready for bed, we sat on a tarp and watched the stars. Some of us even saw shooting stars. Later, we went to bed. The tents were nice and cozy, so it felt good to snuggle up in our sleeping bags.
In the morning, we packed up the semi-wet tents and ate a breakfast of fruit, yogurt, and bagels. After, we got in the vans to go white water rafting and had an awesome, and tiring, rest of the day.
Sarah M., Age 14
Tribe of Dan
Chickpea has really cool hair. Whether she decides to straighten it or to leave it curly it is always beautiful and luscious. It also has a whole back story to it. Even though she was born with blonde hair, it turned brown so she dyes it blonde. Whenever Chickpea’s hair gets wet and she lets it dry naturally, she can make it look like a lion’s mane, which is pretty awesome.
When I asked Chickpea her favorite color she said purple, or more specifically, royal purple. She wants to become a neurologist or a pediatrician. She decided on the name Chickpea because one day her sister Paisley and Dude took her to a restaurant called Chickpea and she really liked it there (good food). If Chickpea had a superpower she would want to be a shape shifter. Her birthstone is a sapphire. Her favorite song is something by the Beatles and her favorite band is Pink Floyd. When asked which three campers she would choose to be stuck on an island with, she answered Reptar, Jazz (with a guitar), and Cyclops. Her favorite superhero is Xavier and Wolverine. She loves Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups and she likes chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream. Chickpea’s favorite lip balm is Blistex Silk & Shine. Her favorite book of the Bible is James. She is serious, fun, hilarious, and amazing. To sum this up Chickpea is a great tribe leader.
Ketzia B., Age 13
Tribe of Dan
Camp is a great place to be in fellowship with other believers in Jesus. 
At home, I don’t have a lot of friends who are Messianic Jews, so at camp I feel like I can relate to people! It’s just awesome to have community and fellowship with other believers!
Friends are close to the best thing that you can have at camp. First of all, they have the same beliefs as you, so you can talk about your faith with each other. Also, they are really crazy and fun and joking around is AWESOME! They are always there for you through the happy times and the “emotional” times.
I really love my friends at camp and LOVE the community and fellowship with other believers in Y’shua!
Anaelle S., Age 15
Tribe of Judah
Scooter is very funny. He likes to sleep a lot. He wanted to be a tribe leader because he loves God and loves kids and he loves camp. Scooter’s favorite thing in camp was the Movie Night. He liked it because the food was good and so was the movie.
His favorite food is Chinese food and his favorite country is Israel because the Bible’s story happened there.
Scooter loves to play extreme checkers and his favorite activity is lunch. Scooter is not as fat as he sounds. The end!
Henry S., Age 13
Tribe of Issachar
Campers: weird, funny, intelligent, with God. They know what to say and know how to express their faith. I couldn’t ask for better friends. They laugh at my silliness and they listen to what I have to say. I made friends, good friends, or maybe even best friends at Gilgal. I’m glad I came to this—can’t wait for next year.
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