Shalom Gesher Parents,
Bruchim Habaim (Welcome) to Kayitz 2025! We are so excited to have kicked off the summer with your amazing kids.
This week, we got to know our edah (age group) and tzrif (bunk)-mates, started our chuggim (electives), and jumped right into the magic of camp life. Whether it was creating in omanut (art), flipping in circus, dancing in rikkud, or tasting delicious treats in bishul (cooking), the chanichim (campers) dove in with incredible energy and excitement.
We began the week with a peulat tzrif (bunk activity) night—each bunk did something special to bond with their roommates and madrichim (counselors). Some played games up on the givah (hill), one bunk walked Rabbi Joe’s dogs, and another had a mini-Maccabiah competition! The ruach is already contagious—cheers and songs are echoing through the edah.
Last night’s peulat erev (evening activity) was a blast! We had our first chadar ochel (dining hall) bootcamp, where we practiced passing dishes, cutting Red Vines with forks and knives, and stacking plates—classic Ramah life skills! We were so proud to see your kids embracing their independence, and we hope they bring some of that camp helpfulness home with them at the end of the summer.
We’re especially looking forward to our first Shabbat together as Gesher—it’s such a special moment for our edah to slow down, sing together, and celebrate as a community. And next week, the excitement continues as we head to the water park! After all our diving board jumps and water slide adventures at the breicha (pool), we’re ready for a day full of kef (fun).
Wishing you all a restful and joyful Shabbat. Shabbat Shalom!
Bali Lavine, Rosh Gesher