Dear Tevya Families,
Time at camp has a rhythm all its own. When campers first arrived at the end of June, it felt like summer stretched endlessly before us, full of possibility. Each day felt long, in the best possible way. But just like that, we’ve reached the halfway point.
On Sunday, we said goodbye to our First Session campers, and on Monday, welcomed in our Second Session crew with open arms. There was no pause in between, just a burst of fresh energy and excitement as camp came alive once again with new arrivals. Now, we look ahead to trips, Color War, and countless more memories. We know how fast these next weeks will fly, so we’re embracing every moment while we can.
Around Camp
Second Session kicked off with energy and heart. Our Kadima CITs officially transitioned into their roles as Junior Counselors, moving into their assigned bunks and becoming even more embedded in the camper experience. While they’ve been active all summer, this next phase allows for deeper bonds and even more hands-on support. Campers were thrilled to welcome these familiar faces into their bunk communities.
Our first night together as a full Second Session community featured a classic: the Counselor Talent Show! Staff took the stage with songs, dances, skits, and lots of laughter, and campers cheered them on with enthusiasm. The fun continued throughout the week with plenty of sunshine and a full schedule of daily programming.
A highlight was Tuesday night’s all-camp event, Table Wars, where dining hall table groups competed in spirited challenges around camp—think field games, secret handshakes, and themed costumes. Points were awarded for creativity, teamwork, and camp spirit, and the joy and connection on display were unmistakable.
On Wednesday, we turned up the volume with a dance social hosted by Party Excitement, a Boston-based DJ company known for its high-energy Bar/Bat Mitzvah events. El Bess was transformed into a dance party, complete with a photo booth and nonstop fun. Check out some of the other age-specific evening highlights below!
Evening Activities by Age Group
Oles: Table Wars, Party Excitement dance social, Scavenger Hunt
Tsofs: Table Wars, Party Excitement dance social, Trip to Chunky’s Cinema for How to Train Your Dragon
Bogs: Table Wars, Party Excitement dance social, Trip to In the Game with fellow Bogs from Camp Tel Noar and Camp Pembroke
Midat Hashavuah – Value of the Week: Respect
Last Shabbat, we introduced the value of Respect (Kavod). It’s a value we see come to life in so many ways at camp When campers listen to one another, show kindness to staff, value each other’s opinions, or care for our shared spaces by keeping bunks clean and picking up after themselves they are showing respect. As I shared at services, when we lead with respect, we build a camp community where everyone feels they belong and where friendships and memories can truly flourish. (Spoiler: next week’s value is Leadership!)
Looking Ahead
This weekend marks the end of the Dor L’Dor trip for our rising Juniors in High School who are returning from their unforgettable four-week journey through Spain and Portugal! We can’t wait to welcome them back to Tevya and hear all about their adventures when they arrive at camp next Friday.
We’re also looking forward to Try Tevya for a Day this Sunday, when prospective campers and their families will get a taste of camp life. They’ll join us for activities, a tour, and a classic BBQ lunch—and we’re excited to share the Tevya magic with them.
And of course… Color War is coming. The Dining Hall is already buzzing with “1, 2, 3, 4, We Want Color War!” chants. Soon, the response might just be, “5, 6, 7, 8, You Don’t Have to Wait!” But for now—we wait…
