7.02.2009
A Truly Devine Dance and Carnival
Campers competed against Hercules himself in weight lifting games!
Lightning bolts face painting was all the rage!
Campers competed to find candy in the clouds!
Check out this godly god!
Even by the lake the jolly mood continued!
Tawonga's Got Talent
Following the talent show, campers and staffed celebrated Havdallah and closed out the first week, while looking ahead to the upcoming week.
6.30.2009
Tawonga meets Jamaica
The sounds of
G-6 all dressed up and ready for reggae!
An artistic representation of the “chill side” of camp!
Games galore on the back deck.
The boys of B-10 making red, white and black bracelets.
6.29.2009
Shalom from "Israel"
Campers enjoyed an Israel themed carnival, complete with face painting, pita making, obstacle courses and much more. Dressed in blue and white, the entire camp gathered for a morning of learning and fun prepared by our incredible Schlihim (Israeli staff). Following the carnival, campers ate a Medeteranean lunch, complete with hummus, pita, and tomato salad. What a
day!
Galil Takes the Stage
The Unit of Galil participated in their own Galil Grammys last night. Hosted by a fabulous array of celebrities and judges, each cabin came up on stage to perform their own self-choreographed dance to a song of their choice. The crowd went wild and all agreed it was a performance for the ages.
AUH Jules lights up the stage (literally).
The girls of G-3 are a captivated audience.
B-4 stole the show with their amazing hip hop act!
6.26.2009
Go West Young Tawongan!
The wagon train has left Tawonga down the dusty Oregon Trail today in our
6.24.2009
B-8 goes for the hat trick against Maintenance
On Sunday night the bunk of B-8 challenged
6.23.2009
New songs… same great Shabbat prep
Even though it is only Tuesday, cabins are already preparing for our first camper Shabbat of 2009. Each cabin was given their own prayer to lead as part of their unit Kabbalat service. Then the whole unit came together to learn new songs that will be a part of our Shabbat service on Saturday morning.
6.17.2009
Israeili Cultural Carnival
The campers of First Session were magically whisked away to sunny
It wouldn’t be a day in
… or snacking on some homemade pita.
Campers learned to milk a cow just like a real kibbutznik.
Campers trained with IDF drill sergeants at the obstacle course.
6.16.2009
Tawonga Spa
6.15.2009
5… 4… 3… 2… 1… BLAST OFF!
After a block full of freeze dance, the girls of G-4 wind down with a good old fashioned massage train.
G-6 learns to write Jewish words with cookie dough… and gets a little messy too!
B-2 gets into its robotic bunk theme by creating their own robots at Arts and Crafts.
G-7 enjoys mirror dancing on the
B-1 plays a great game of Gaga!
5.27.2009
Spring Family Camp kicks off the Season!


Camp Tawonga in 1855
Students come to camp dressed as characters from the Gold Rush, and meet some local personalities like Levi Strauss, Lillie Hitchcock Coit, and Domingo Ghiradelli... to name a few. Check out the cast of characters below.

8.11.2008
Tikkun Olam: The Chocolate Chip Cookie Way


8.05.2008
Hamburgers, Hot Dogs, and Torah: A Saturday Night Meal
Everyone knows that
Yours,
Gastronomical Guesser
Dear Gastronomical Guesser,
You were right on!!! Saturday night is a special night here at camp. After participating in the Torah Service in the morning, and our great Shabbat programming in the afternoon, there is only one way to close out such a fabulous day… Barbeque!!! One of our most popular meals, campers get to choose between hamburgers, hot dogs, and chicken sandwiches, while piling their plates with watermelon, rice crispy treats, macaroni salad and chips. And all campers would agree that the Shabbat BBQ is extra special since it is the one meal during which they can enjoy soda!!! So check out these photos of Chalutzim and
Yours,
The Blogger
8.01.2008
Garbage Day Never Looked so Good!!
7.31.2008
The best of both worlds!
I sent my son to Tawonga Sports, that great session where kids get to learn and play a variety of different sports, while still getting the complete Tawonga experience. He was so excited to get on the bus. But now, I am worried. Will my sporty son overheat? Will he get exhausted with all those runs around the baseball diamond? What ever shall I do?
Yours,
Dad of Sporty Son
Dear Dad of Sporty Son,
While your son is getting an amazing experience and learning sports and teamwork skills, he also has a well rounded
Yours,
The Blogger
Only the strong
G-3 spent the afternoon on the lake, participating in Tawonga Survivor. Based on the hit reality TV show, the kids formed “tribes” and challenged themselves to work as a team on the lake (and cleared out a whole bunch of lily pads in the process). With the team flag, and a special chant, both tribes were motivated to be the best on the lake.
In the end, every one had fun, and as of yet, no one had to leave the island…
G-3 learns the rules of the game.
The campers prepare for the boats.
7.30.2008
A Very Fairy Day!!!

Every time a baby laughs, or a flower opens on a warm spring morning, a fairy is born! So keep your eyes and imagination open, look for sparkling fairy dust in the river, and remember that fairies are drawn in by the sounds of children’s laughter!
Today the girls of G-Gimmel dressed up as fairies (so they wouldn’t scare any they might have come across), gave themselves and each other fairy names, and went in search of the magic creatures of the forest! Songs were sung, stories were told, fairy homes were found and built and smiles were shared by all!
G-Gimmel worked as a team to make giant fairy braids to attract the fairies to Lady Bug Cove.
Untangling our Differences




7.29.2008
What’s on tap for the session: Rotations to the rescue
Dear Shabblogger,
It is my camper's first year at camp. How will they ever know what activities are offered so they can help to design their bunk’s schedule?
Yours,
Scheduling Slueth
Dear Scheduling Slueth,
Here at camp we think it is SO important for campers to help design their own bunk’s schedule. If they have special interests or games they enjoy, it is important they tell their counselors so that it can be included in the group’s experience. One way they can learn about all of the things the different departments of camp have to offer is by participating in “rotations” the first day of each session. Counselors and campers take a tour of camp during which they see presentations by various departments: Jewish and Israeli programmers, the lifeguards, Arts and Crafts, and musicians. Later in the day they attend cabin floats when they are given time to try these various activities and play games.
So, Mr. Slueth, by the end of the day today your child will be a master of the different exciting activities offered here at
Yours,
The Shabblogger
Song leader Gal teaches the campers of Galil the hand motions to a chant during the music station of rotations.
Clearing the Way
Dear Shablogger,
It is impossible to get my kids to do chores at home. They hate to take out the garbage, walk the dog, but more than anything, I can never get them to clear the table. How do you get the kids to clear so many tables, so fast?
Yours,
Dirty Dining Room
Dear Dirty Dining Room,
We do a little thing here at camp called stacking and scraping. Every table piles all of their food waste onto one plate (once a day we weigh this plate, to see as a camp how much we are wasting and work to improve it). Then the “hoppers” carry all of the dishes to the front of the room, where they are separated and given to the kitchen staff. Just ask any
So in conclusion, by making it fun and encouraging kids to work as a group, cleaning can get done with no hassle at all.
Yours,
The Shablogger
After just one day the girls of G-Gimmil are already old pros at the stack and scrape method.
7.28.2008
Session 3: The Reviews are in... All camp play is a hit!
As you can see what Makom Shalom (where we usually do our Torah service) was transformed into an amazing set! There was singing...
And dancing...
The performers did an amazing job! Take a bow!
7.21.2008
A visit to Israel
The campers of Hafia learn about different settlers of the
Shabbat Shalom, Camp Tawonga!
Campers clean up and get dressed in their favorite finery. My, everyone looks so nice!
7.18.2008
Rockin' the Ropes
All Camp Clean Up
7.17.2008
Stewards of the Forest
An important part of every campers experience is our Tikkun Tawonga program. Campers participate in a number of different work projects that teach how all types of work are important in creating a community and that we all can play an active role in making our community and world a better place.
Today B-10A had a chance to participate in our Forestry Tikkun. The bunk began by learning about the impact humans have had on the forest in this area, and then discussed the responsibility we have in maintaining balance in the ecosystem. Campers then broke into 4 work groups and with the guidance of our Forest Stewards began to cut trees, thinning the forest as a natural fire would.
Through their hard work the campers helped to create a safer forest.
The Rainbow Connection
It was all about rainbows here today, as G-1 celebrated Rainbow Day. Freshly body painted to the tune of ROY G. BIV, the girls wrote their own “Rainbow Anthem,” and serenaded all those around. They then headed down to the river for some more COLORFUL fun.
7.14.2008
We Welcome You to Camp Tawonga – Mighty Glad You’re Here Session 3!!!
Session 3 is already in full swing!
The campers were greeted and serenaded by the 2008 Tawonga Staff as they got off the busses. Once all of the campers had divided by gender, they were split into bunks.
Counselors played a name game, put away their things, and immediately started work on a bunk cheer for the opening campfire.
Old friends were excited to be at camp with each other again.
At the opening campfire, each child has a chance to introduce themselves during a bunk cheer.
The staff is already up to the task of entertaining the campers. A rubber chicken is always funny. Always.
Each bunk’s schedule was created for the first week. Campers can look forward to all of their old favorites: Arts and Crafts, Ga-ga, Pool Activities,
Getting Gnarly, Archery, Drama, Basketball, River Trips, Tawonga Ball,
Stage Combat, Israeli Dancing and and more.
Song Sessions filled with singing and dancing.
7.03.2008
Baruch Atah Sysco... Thanks for the grub!
After two hours of preparing signs, costumes, cheers, and even a red carpet, Tawongans march along side the Sysco truck as it enters camp.
Here's our new friend Gennaro being given the "Royal Treatment." We dubbed him King Sysco and gave him a crown and scepter.

It turned out that this was Gennaro's first day on the job. What a welcome he got to camp! When Haifa's Unit Head, Noah, thanked him for being such a good sport he said, "No, thank you. I was having a rough day and this really cheered me up."
Firefighter Appreciation
Yesterday the campers of Camp Tawonga took a moment out of their busy schedule to write thank you postcards to the fire fighters who have been helping fight the North Fire. Campers wrote heartfelt postcards to the men and women who have taken time away from their family to help save the surrounding forest and keep our community safe. Later during Green Floats, campers made and signed a giant thank you card from the entire camp.
Here a few of the post cards they wrote:
Dear firefighter,
Thank you for protecting Camp Tawonga from the fires in beautiful Yosemite. Thank you for fighting the fire to keep Yosemite beautiful and protected. I think you’re very brave to fight the fires. I am amazed that you would come away from your families and protect Tawonga and Yosemite.
Your biggest fan,
Roz
Dear Firefighters,
We at Camp Tawonga really, really appreciate your work to help save the forest and fight the fire. I really appreciate you taking time out of you daily lives to help protect us from the fire and fight it. I am so happy you are doing all that work to protect us and the forest.
Love,
Julia
7.01.2008
Dressing up for fun in the sun!
Here's the bunk of G-10 dressed up for a Pool Fashion Show.
There's no running at the pool! That's why this G-10er is engaged in a walk off!
G-3 celebrate after defeating the dragon of Gnarliness!

G-10 has a Gnarly day as well!

But it's hot out here, and no matter how we dress up, we all know how to cool down!

6.27.2008
The British are coming… and Carmel is there to greet them.
“Cheerio, it’s tea time!” cry these

Nothing like a sporting game of Croquet to liven up a morning.
Campers design and create British flags and crafts next to the river.
6.26.2008
Ceramics: A wheel-y great time at A & C




6.25.2008
A "Jazzer-iffic" Day at Camp Tawonga!
Here is G-7 doing a Soul Train, looking on as two of their bunkmates dance down the line.
Even the counselors got in on the action!
G-9 and the ITs don't mess around when it comes to appropriate Jazzercise
attire- they really brought it this time!

All in all, a great aerobic time was had by all!
6.23.2008
Can a sequel be as good as the original? Session 2 says, “YES!!!”

Session 2 has begun, and we couldn’t be more excited. Here are a few highlights from the first 24 hours!!!
Counselors line the road outside the dining hall and welcome the campers off the bus with songs and cheers.
Campers head off the buses and into main camp where they meet their counselors and cabin mates.
G-8 plays a name game during their opening tour of camp!!!
“Almost heaven,
During the opening camp fire each bunk gets on stage to perform a short cheer. Here B-2 introduces themselves and shows off their agility.
6.20.2008
Closing Campfire
She is the music master, and comes from far away. Watch her play on her orchestra (instruments provided by the campers themselves)
6.19.2008
The Dining Hall: It’s a Jungle in There
Session I Israel Floats: A Taste of Milk and Honey
On Wednesday our very own Shlichim (Israeli staff members) turned the Moadone and its surrounding areas into a little slice of the
Campers and staff celebrate completing the IDF obstacle course challenge.
Mmmm... pita-licious!!!
A visit to a kibbutz wouldn't be complete without trying your hand at milking a cow.
6.18.2008
Session One... on its way to fun!
The first full day of camp means picture day here at
It didn’t take long for the girls of G-7 to get gnarly. During this block they learned to express their messy side through face paint, wet clay and mud!!!!
Welcome to the Sha-blog 2008
“We welcome you to
8.13.2007
Session 4 Shabbat: a very special time...


At Camp Tawonga, Shabbat is a special time of connection and reflection. Campers and staff share this connection by exchanging hugs and kind words.
On Saturday, campers eat breakfast and go to Makom Shalom, our beautiful natural amphitheater for Torah Service, Tawonga-style. Staff and campers join at the front to help with special parts of the service.
Each camper is welcomed to find their own way of celebrating Shabbat and Judaism while at Camp Tawonga.
A camper reading from our Torah service.Photography copyright 2007, QuadPhoto – New York City”
Camp Tawonga: where the fun happens!
Body painting in the Boys' Side Field
Helping out in the Camp Tawonga garden
Playing frisbee with friends on the Girls' Side Field
Archery!
Drama with Brady on the Firecircle stage
Swinging around with friends
Basking in the sun on Hershey Rock
Celebrating a birthday Tawonga-style before dessert
Dancing after dinner during Song Session in the Dining Hall
Ending the day with a cabin camp fire
Camp Tawonga gets a thumbs-up from these happy campers!Photography copyright 2007, QuadPhoto – New York City”
Artsy Craftsy
Campers can draw, paint, sculpt, create ceramics on potters' wheels, tie-dye, make shrinky-dinks and MUCH MUCH more! Here are some photos of campers enjoying arts and crafts:
Campers model their final product. Looking good!Photography copyright 2007, QuadPhoto – New York City”
8.08.2007
Our fantastic ropes course
Two campers about to conquer the wall
A leap of faith
3 Happy campers, after their adventures on the ropes!Photography Ó 2007, QuadPhoto – New York City”
Campers hit the trails on Backpacking overnight trips
In the Backcountry
Resting trailside."Photography taken by: Rachael Reuveni -Quad/Photo
Photography Ó 2007, QuadPhoto – New York City”
Halloween at Camp!


Campers enjoyed classic Halloween activities Tawonga style. Such as...

Carving jack-o-lantern / watermelantern masks,
Wearing fun wigs, and...
Eating candy with friends!"Photography taken by: Rachael Reuveni -Quad/Photo
Photography Ó 2007, QuadPhoto – New York City”
8.07.2007
Staying Cool at Camp Tawonga

Campers also cool off at our beautiful Olympic-size pool. Here you see some campers lounging with friends before jumping in!


Or, if you don't feel like swimming, you can always jump into a sprinkler!
Photography Ó 2007, QuadPhoto – New York City”
Camp Tawonga's special Israeli visitors...

Their Tawonga bunk mates welcome them into our unique Jewish community, introduce them to the wonders of

"Photography taken by: Rachael Reuveni -Quad/Photo
Photography Ó 2007, QuadPhoto – New York City”
7.31.2007
We Welcome You To Camp Tawonga...
These are the first words, the first song, the kids hear as they get off the bus and set foot at camp. The Session 4, Session 4 Carmel, and Sports Program kids cheered along, excited to finally be at camp! After meeting their counselors and having dinner, the entire community joined at the stage for the opening campfire.

The Camp Tawonga staff welcoming the kids to camp


Kids and staff watch and participate in the campfire.


Photography Ó 2007, QuadPhoto – New York City”
7.27.2007
Session 3 Shabbat
Campers sing Shabbat blessings together
The next morning's Torah Service
Josh and his campers relaxing after Shabbat
7.24.2007
Touring with TSL Israel
Shalom from Kibbutz Lotan in the southern negev! We are all doing really well and thrilled to be here at Lotan, which is an amazing place. Each day is very full and rich, and it actually feels like many weeks since we've been here because we have done and seen so much.
The mifgash (encounter) with the Israeli teens was fun. The home stay shabbat was a highlight for everyone, not just because they got to sleep in real beds, do their laundry, and get to know Israeli families, but mainly because it gave them a taste of what "real life" is like for their Israeli friends with whom they developed a real closeness. The teens organized a party for Friday night which the staff attended (sat in the corner trying to be unobtrusive), and they seemed to have had a blast together dancing, laughing, and showing each other the ropes of how each group spends fun time together. When we reconvened at the end of shabbat, the teens reported that shabbat itself (Saturday) had been spent doing things like blueberry picking, swimming, touring the kibbutzim or villages where the Israelis live, eating a lot (!!), and catching up on sleep and relaxation. When we said goodbye to our Israeli friends there were many hugs, a few tears, and many a commitment to remain in touch and gather again, perhaps at Tawonga!
On Sunday morning we headed south and spent a good part of the day on the bus making our way from the northern tip of the country to practically the southern tip. Along the way we made a stop in Jerusalem where we had a picnic lunch at the park outside of the knesset (the Israeli government) where a group of Bedouin we were meeting with had set up a small tent city where they were demonstrating against the policies of the government which has refused to recognize and provide services to many of their villages. Their signs said things like "demolition is not democracy." The Bedouin are by nature nomadic, and they prefer to live on the land in villages, and yet the state of Israel has refused to recognize some of their villages as legitimate, which means they are given no electricity on the national grid, no access to water through pipes, no representation in the government, and none of the amenities that other groups, even most other Arab groups, enjoy. In some cases their villages are simply demolished. We heard from Mustafa (his words translated by our Israeli staff member Reut) about the plight of his people and learned about the nature of the protest. The teens had many great questions, and it exposed us to sides of
We then were able to contrast what we learned from the Bedouin from the unrecognized villages to another picture of Bedouin life when we stayed overnight in a huge Bedouin tent village designed for groups and tourists. There we rode camels (the teens LOVED that, especially the hilarious grunting noises the camels made for the rest of the night), and the host Bedouins made us tea, showed us how they grind and make coffee, cooked flat bread on the fire, played some Bedouin wedding songs on the oud, and introduced us to the positive and very interesting aspects of Bedouin culture. It was a great source of learning to have had two completely different experiences with the Bedouin, and the teens are thinking crtitically and able to ask provocative and thoughtful questions to help us all learn more.
We woke up in the tent at 4:00 a.m., and bleary-eyed but enthusiastic nonetheless, climbed
After Masada everyone enjoyed some free fun time at the
Lotan is an incredible place. The whole kibbutz is based on a permaculture, eco-village model. All the buildings and play areas are made from mud bricks, which our teens spent their morning making! We learned all about how they compost everything they use, how they re-use "grey" water for irrigation, capture solar energy (abundant down here!) and sell it to the national grid in return for electricity at night, recycle and reuse as much as they possibly can, and turn even their trash (like bottles, tires, etc) into play structures, buildings, and functional areas by covering everything in the mud bricks and straw bales they construct here - all from organic materials. It's just amazing. We will have many pictures to send and share very soon.
We will be here at Lotan for the next few days and are having a great time. Service, learning, socializing, discussing, getting in touch with ourselves, with each other, and with the people, the culture and the land here. It's been amazing so far and we know will continue to unfold and exceed our wildest expectations in its wonderousness.
Lots of love, or as they say here "B'ahava",
the TSL group
7.23.2007
Special Owl Delivery to Camp Tawonga!

These happy Carmel campers are excited to start reading!
"YES! It's here!"Intergalactic games are out of this world!
Campers were assigned teams, in which they created team names and cheers, and participated in "intergalactic games" like tug-of-war and wheel barrow races. All in all, it was out of this world!
This team crafts their team handshake.
7.18.2007
Shalom from the TSL Israel participants
The flights were easy, no hassles. We arrived on Monday afternoon and began our journey up north, stopping along the way to do a brief welcome ceremony led by our Israeli tour guide Reut (she’s awesome). We were at a place overlooking the Kineret (the
We are staying at a camp called Kimama at Kibbutz Amir. It’s not too much like Tawonga physically (okay, nothing like it), except it turns out they sing a lot of the same songs, which we heard as we entered the camp. After our first night of “sleep” we went in the morning to our work project site, working with a project in Kiryat Shmona called Ayalim.
Ariell carrying buckets (there was a lot of bucket carrying)
Ayalim is an initiative to get Israeli 20-somethings, post-army and post-travel, to return to
Moving rocks to make a pathway a little more functional
Yesterday evening after a very interesting talk from an expert on the topic of water in the region (very provocative and elicited a number of great questions from the group), we were joined by 14 Israeli teens from the northern region, most of whom are Tawonga teens. The reunion was gleeful, full of hugs, laughs, and lots of singing. We had a boisterous song session after dinner last night, and played a few games to deepen the connections.
So, that brings us to right now. Our lunch just arrived. Everyone is hungry and enjoying being inside in the mazgan (air conditioning) after a long morning of work (with many water breaks, don’t worry!). We will be in touch soon. We send our love.
B’ahava,
The TSL Israel group
7.17.2007
Quenching the hot days

7.13.2007
Session 3 in full swing!
Meanwhile, B-5 enjoyed a block of Getting Gnarly, a camp favorite!

And Carmel and Galil made leis and played limbo in their joint luau.

7.03.2007
Session 2 Shabbat

The Shabbat stroll ends at the dining hall doors with hugs, singing, and greetings of "Shabbat Shalom!".

Campers eagerly await entry to the dining hall for their Shabbat meal.
B Aleph can't wait to taste the challah that their fellow campers made that very morning.
Campers admire our Torah, from the Polish town of Vodnany, that survived the Holocaust.
Campers sing the Motzi before enjoying their fresh Challah.
Shabbat dinner is followed by Freilach (dancing) and singing with the whole camp.



Relaxing with Tawonga friends...
Here is a session 2 camper enjoying some swinging in her free time:

Meanwhile, four of our In Training Campers (also known as ITs) enjoy a game of bocce lakeside:

Canteen and Clothing

Kaitlin fills out her canteen order for her bunk
Sam Shonkoff, former counselor, IT leader, Assistant Unit Head, TSL Leader and Tawonga All-Star models our brand new sweatshirt and unisex sweatpants, both of which are available in youth and adult sizes. Looking good, Sam!

7.02.2007
Artsy Craftsy
Valerie helps one of her campers learn the tricks of the trade.
Wow! Together they made a great bowl!6.29.2007
Session 2 Activities...
B8 campers met at the fire circle stage where they split into groups and created some awesome Jazzersize routines. Below you can see one G8 group preform with style. Work it out, G8!
Later at the Gaga pit, B Aleph played against G Aleph with ice cream sundaes as the trophy. Of course, it was a "Tawonga tie" and all campers enjoyed a delicious scoop.

Meanwhile, B7 enjoyed a cool paddle at the lake.

Over in our Moadome, sister bunks G Aleph and G9 gathered to share stories and make friendship bracelets for each other. Younger and older bunks at camp often pair up, giving campers of different ages the feeling of a new older or younger "sibling." The brother and sister bunks give campers a great way to have fun together at camp, and form lasting bonds.


The fun and friends at Tawonga never end!
6.28.2007
Pizza Man and other Tawonga Antics
On their first night of camp, session 2 campers gathered with cabinmates and counselors at our fire circle for songs, skits, and fun. Pizza Man, a repeat after me skit, is a Tawonga classic.
At the opening campfire each cabin had the chance to introduce their cabin to camp through a skit of their own design. Below you can see B Aleph and G5 in action:


6.25.2007
Welcome to camp, Session 2!
After the bus ride, campers meet their counselors and cabinmates, play games, and take a tour of camp. After moving in to cabins, the entire camp community had a delicious dinner, followed by the opening campfire of Session 2, 2007.


Farewell Session 1!
We've had a blast getting to know our Session 1 campers, and are sad to see them go. As we say at camp, "Shalom Chaverim, Peace Friends, until we see you again... we hope it's next summer!"

6.21.2007
Around Camp with Session 1

Wow! What fun! Session 1 campers have had quite a week! Every cabin has gone on a day trip, where they've been able to hike, swim, play and bond with their cabinmates.
Campers have done activities across camp, ranging from searching for turtles while boating on the lake, to playing Bocce Ball on the Boys Side Field, to playing ping pong and foosball, to making new crafts at A'n'C.


As we sing at Camp Tawonga, "friends, friends, friends, we will always be!"

6.20.2007
Camper Skits Light Up the Campfire
B-Aleph campers prepare to perform
G-Aleph Campers boogie down

All of the "In Training" teen leaders on stage together
Campers make a human orchestra in a rousing rendition of camp favorite "Music Master" Session 1 off to a great start!
8.09.2006
Once Upon a Tawongan Time . . .
Lance, the eldest of the 3 pigs builds a house out of popsicle sticks... let's hope it can withstand the wrath of the Wolf 3000!
Jousting away the evil keepers of the mirror
Ping-pong with Shrek
The fairy godmother teaches her campers to make magic wands8.08.2006
Shabbat Shalom
Campers wait excitedly at their table for dinner to be served.
Shabbat Shalom!
8.04.2006
Everybody loves Arts and Crafts
Today Galil and Eilat had a BBQ at the pool together for lunch, G-6 took on the Climbing Tower, G-7 had a sleep-in breakfast, G-8 made bunk t-shirts and B-4 played hockey in the dining hall. Carmel girls were on the ropes course all morning and Carmel boys, as well as all of Chalutzim were backpacking. This afternoon everyone had free swim and then some time to prep for Shabbat. Tonight Shabbat starts with a stroll around camp, a delicious Shabbat dinner, tons of freylach, dancing, and singing, and then the day will close with unit Kabbalat Shabbat. What a great day! And Shabbat Shalom!
8.03.2006
Tisha B'av
Missing something?
Stop by our office located in San Francisco at 131 Steuart St. on the 4th floor. We're open Monday-Friday 9am to 5pm. Please call ahead so we know to expect you.
8.02.2006
Pata Pata!!!
Pata Pata made it's Camp Tawonga debut at the beginning of the summer, and ever since then, campers have been seen dancing Pata Pata on Shabbat at freylach, during camp dances, on the way to arts and crafts, and everywhere in between. Our song leader, Gal, has been teaching the dance to all of our session 4 campers in the last few days. Yesterday Chalutzim learned it!
Early yesterday morning Chalutzim departed for their 2 night backpacking trips. The day was jam packed with fun for the rest of camp as well. Nearly everyone had a chance to swim during their unit swim or with their bunk at the river. G-6 made pottery in the evening and Galil had "Israel Adventure" day!
7.31.2006
Welcome Session Four!
7.27.2006
Call for Photos!
A few hints on what makes a good photo:
- Pictures must be in focus with good lighting- not too dark and not overexposed
- Send shots of individuals and small groups, no big groups
- Pictures should be in .gif or .jpg format. Unfortuantely, we cannot post videos
- We love smiles and campers being goofy!
- Please send a maximum of 5 pictures- choose your favorites!
We can't wait to see your pictures!
7.26.2006
One Bagel to Rule Them All
It was such a great day! Here are some picture highlights.
It's a bird! It's a plane! It's a . . . helicopter?
On Tuesday morning, a helicopter made an emergency landing on our girls' side field because of difficulty with its hydraulic system. While a repairman made his way to Tawonga (from Red Bluff - near Mt. Shasta!), the pilot and other officials were welcomed and given plenty of ice water to cool off on the almost 100 degree day. At rest hour, the campers were thrilled to be able to check out the helicopter, sit in the pilot's seat, and hear about all the various buttons and controls! It was exciting for the kids, and Tawonga was glad to help out.But the excitement of the helicopter certainly didn't slow down any normal camp acivities. The Olympics came to Camp Tawonga! Different bunks represented different countries as they participated in events like swimming, indoor hockey, and of course, sack races!





We also took a moment to sit down and talk with our eldest campers about the events happening in Israel. Although camp's beautiful location can sometimes make it feel cut-off from the events of the outside world, the situation in Israel is very important to our community. We have so many well informed staff members and Israelis at camp that it is an excellent venue in which to learn about and discuss such events. Ken Kramarz, Camp Tawonga's immediate past Executive Director led the discussion with unit heads and Schlichim. He commented afterwards that it was extremely gratifying to see just how many campers actively participated in a conversation about such a serious topic.
7.25.2006
Mustaches and Mountains, oh my!
Sometimes at Camp Tawonga, we can get pretty silly. Yesterday the kitchen staff sponsored "Mustache Monday" and both campers and staff got really into it! And who knew there were so many different kinds of mustaches. There's the imperial mustache, the Dalí mustache, the handlebar mustache, and you can't forget the walrus mustache!
Later in the evening, G-3 and B-4 headed up to Inspiration Point, an amazing place to bond with the bunk and watch the sun set.
Also today was the famous "Bagel Run," an intense and long but exciting elective hike in Yosemite National Park offered for those 3-week campers who want to challenge themselves in the outdoors.
7.21.2006
Say Anything!
Yesterday was an excellent day, particularly for Chalutzim campers. After eating "choco tacos" they were chauffeured by our wonderful drivers up to the wilderness building for open mic night. They watched and participated in skits and songs while munching on tea and muffins.
Whew! Such a busy day! Luckily today is Shabbat so everyone gets a big, delicious dinner and an evening to relax with Kabbalat Shabbat.
7.20.2006
Another busy day at camp!
Speaking of cooking, some campers are making s'mores in the freedom forrest tonight. mmm...sounds good!
What else is on the menu for today?
7.19.2006
Sunrise, Sunset
The unit of Eilat will also see some fantastic views today. Later this evening they will be driving to Inspiration Point, a favorite spot to watch the sun go down over a valley. Our song leader, Gal, will accompany the group so that they may sing songs and share stories as they watch the sun slip behind mountains.
7.18.2006
Rage on the Stage
And speaking of rocking, later that night we had a "Rage on the Stage". Aaron, Rafie, and Nama were our fabulous MC trio. One bunk sang "Girls just want to have fun" to kick off the celebration. Some bunks performed lip syncs of their favorite songs, others wrote their own songs. B-10B did a lip sync of "Can You Feel the Love Tonight," which earned them a standing ovation.



Sing on happy campers!7.16.2006
It's Israel Day!



7.15.2006
Shabbat Shalom from Camp Tawonga!
This weekend Shabbat has been made especially special because the Camp Tawonga Board of Directors has come to celebrate with us. Here are some highlights from this morning's Torah service.

A camper stands and joins in singing Adon Olam

Guy leads the camp in an Aliya as Tama, our Jewish Programmer, guides him

A scene from the Parashat Players skit. The Parashat Players, who have become a lively and wonderful part of our weekly Torah service, act out different parts of the Torah. Not only are they entertaining, but they make the stories and teachings of the Torah more understandable and accessible.

Another scene from the Parashat Players

Johnathan and Gal are our amazing song leaders. Johnathan has been coming to Tawonga for the last 14 summers. Gal is one of our fantastic Schlichim, or staff memebers who come all the way from Israel to spend the summer with Tawonga.

A group of campers stand for the singing of "Tall Tall Trees." This is a beloved song that celebrates the natural beauty and glory of the trees and of nature.

Our Hagbah, Gregg, presents the Torah to the community
7.14.2006
A fun day for Carmel
On Friday morning, everybody was doing something different around camp. The unit of Eilat headed over to the ropes course to challenge themselves on both low and high elements. Haifa had a unit swim and Galil campers were either at the Climbing Wall or playing drama games with Drama Steve. Our oldest campers in Chalutzim were still out on the last day of their backpacking trips. So many people were doing so many fun things! We caught up with the girls of G-1 and G-2 who were braiding Challah for Shabbat dinner. This is a very sepcial weekend because the Camp Tawonga Board of Directors celebrated Shabbat with us at camp. The girls braided a lot of Challah!



(The best part of Challah braiding is definitely the flour!)
After the success of Challah braiding, the girls headed over to Arts and Crafts to do some tie-dying.

Rose teaches the fine art of tie-dye

Such a beautiful shirt!
7.12.2006
We're famous!

Thanks to Steve and Sam, a father/son duo with a website who podcast shows, Camp Tawonga's name has been heard from here to Australia! Wanna check it out and get a kid's perspective on things? http://sgshow.blogspot.com
7.11.2006
Magical Mystery Tour
On this quest, brave campers sign up with no idea what they're going to be doing! Along the way they pick up clues that tell them where their next activity will be. This group found out they'd be rafting the South Fork of the American River. Our campers got drenched in rapids with names like Satan's Cespool, Troublemaker, and Hospital Bar. And these are just the tame rapids!

Now that everyone has returned home safely, we know you're tempted to find out all about the trip. But don't let them tell you too much! After all, this is the magical mystery tour!
7.10.2006
Backpacking

Each bunk in sessions 2, 3 and 4, gets a chance to go on a 1-2 night backpacking trip as part of the Tawonga experience. The day before the trip, the bunk will meet with the wilderness leader who will accompany them, to tell them where they are going. They also get fitted for packs, and gather any other equipment they will need. Then they return to their bunks to pack clothing and personal items.

In the morning the bunk gathers with their two counselors and wilderness leader to pack group gear such as pots, pans, and food.

When everyone is ready to go they are driven out to the trailhead, usually an hour or two away. Bunks hike 1-6 miles, depending on their age, and then set up camp. Campers help staff cook dinner and clean up before the campfire where they spend time really getting to know each other. The trip would not be complete without a swim in one of the many lakes, rivers, or waterfalls. The bunk returns back to camp as a close knit unit to enjoy hot water and Tawonga kitchen prepared meals. Those bunk beds have never looked so good!
7.06.2006
Happy Birthday!
First, Deborah calls our lucky birthdays up to the front of the dining hall where she asks a very important question:
"Have you ever had a birthday at Tawonga before?"
No?!?
Everyone in the dining hall will shout: "She's never had a birthday at Tawonga before!"

Each birthday camper is given a dessert to share with their tablemates and 2 wishes. One for themselves, and one for the WHOLE world.
When they are done wishing it's up into the flying chair they go! How old are you? Just count how many times you're thrown into the air!
After that it's time to dig in!


7.05.2006
Happy 4th of July!

Ok so there were no fireworks, but our campers certainly got their fill of good old fashioned American fun! Campers celebrated their independence by making their own choice at breakfast of red, white, or blue pancakes! From there, bunks spent the morning competing against each other in a series of fun, 4th of July themed challenges.
A traditional picnic lunch of fried chicken, potato salad, and watermelon was served outside in the beautiful weather! The festivities continued in the afternoon with a parade around camp featuring signs the campers had made earlier, and Fourth of July themed float activity choices.

And what would a holiday be without a party?! Campers got down and groovy on Monday night with a Hard Rock Cafe themed dinner. Afterwards, our oldest hardrockers showed off their head banging dance moves, and we were transported back to the 70's and 80's by their wacky costumes.
As you can see, a rockin' good time was had by all.7.03.2006
Quest update
Today our group enjoyed a little rest and relaxation in the hot springs near Hot Creek. After hiking all over the mountains I'm sure they were excited to hang out in one place and kick back without their boots and backpacks!
Tomorrow our adventurers head to Tahoe where they will stay overnight to do laundry, send and receive mail, and prepare for the next leg of their journey: a two day river rafting excursion down the American river.
Our bold quest-ers are sure to come back with great memories from the trip and we can't wait to see where they'll go next!
A day in the life of a camper

Campers spend each morning as a group with their bunkmates doing all sorts of activities. On the first night, each bunk listens to presentations from the staff and then decides as a group which activities they would like to sign up for. Some groups choose drama and arts and crafts, while others choose to play frisbee and work in the garden.



After lunch campers have rest hour. It's a great time to try to catch a few zzz's (trust us, those campers are going to need it!), but for campers not in the mood, they're free to hang out with bunkmates, go to the canteen, or write home to tell you about their wonderful camp experience!

Afternoons are hot at Tawonga and we think that makes it the perfect weather for water play!
Bunks can swim, relax, and splash around in our olympic size pool, enjoy the slip n' slide on the grass, boat on our lake, get gnarly (an activity where campers learn it can be fun to be covered in paint), or go down to the river. But if you're not a water lover, there's plenty more to do! Campers can bake cookies, play basketball, frisbee, or gaga, learn Israeli dance, make pottery or enjoy other arts and crafts.




And if your bunk didn't make it to the pool during cabin time, there's free swim! No matter what your mood there's an activity for you. Feeling sporty? There's a water polo game going on. Just want to relax? Hang out in an inner tube.

After we give campers a chance to wash up it's dinner time! Song session is lively and includes lots of dancing. Bunks can choose to spend some of their time learning Israeli dances and we make sure to include the "dance of the day" in our song session for campers to show off their newly acquired moves!

If you didn't get a chance to do your favorite activity during the day don't worry! Campers have float time where they can choose individually which activity they'd like to go to and then stay as long as they'd like. Some of the choices are archery, yoga, boating on the lake, softball, arts and crafts, basketball, and many others!



Even when the sun goes down the fun doesn't stop! Night time activities include campfires, talent shows, star gazing and other camper suggested activities. 80's themed jazzercise? Sure! Hockey in the dining hall? Why not?!


After a full day, campers head to their bunks for bed time to rest up. Tomorrow is another day!
6.29.2006
My visit to Tawonga
Yesterday the temperatures were hot hot hot and camp was sizzling with fun! This lucky blogger had the chance to go up for the day and wanted to stay for a week!
I think the question is what didn't we do?!
Check back soon for more pictures and fun times from Camp Tawonga!
6.27.2006
Welcome session two campers!
They spent the first night getting to know their bunkmates, counselors, and CITs with "get to know you" and name games followed by a tour of camp to help them settle in.
Looks like our youngest campers had lots of fun meeting their newest friends!
6.22.2006
Session One
We started off our 2006 summer fabulously welcoming 220 adorable and enthusiastic campers to session 1. You've probably heard quite a bit already about how much fun your kids had at camp but here are a few highlights of the week.
We left on a beautiful sunny day which fit perfectly with our smiling campers’ eager attitudes. Many of them were first time campers ready to embark on a fantastic new adventure.
During the session, campers had the opportunity to make lanyards, tie die clothing, and beaded jewelry at arts and crafts, and participate in lots of sports including basketball, swimming, and archery.
Wednesday we celebrated
All and all it was a very successful Israeli day and our campers had a wonderful time.
* Floats are free time at camp where campers can visit any of the many staffed areas and stay as long as they choose.
Speaking of Israel Day, on June 4th
Before kids arrive at our beautiful facilities, staff undergoes a one week intensive training to learn how to be super counselors.
This year we were fortunate enough to have eight Israeli teens with us taking part in the teen leadership program, seven of which were campers in the past 3 years.
We look forward to welcoming 18 Israeli teens who will join our campers in session four for an inside look into Israeli culture.
6.19.2006
Welcome to Camp Tawonga Summer 2006
“You guys are all champs” said Noah Marsh counselor of B7 as his boys walked away dusty and happy from the gaga court. Noah attended Tawonga for 8 years as a camper and is a veteran second year counselor. His sentiments echo the message we try to impart to all of our campers, “you guys and gals are all champs!”
At Arts & Crafts they beaded, made head bands, created fimo sculptures and wove lanyards. Groups also went boating on the lake, played basketball, played games with the drama teacher and learned from Tama our Jewish educator. Happy voices filled the air as they sang with Gal and Marsha our song leaders! After lunch our pre-scheduled fire drill brought the entire community together on the ball field where we reviewed safety procedures.
Executive Director

Alumni at the Presidio
Yesterday morning, not a cloud in the sky appeared during the first gathering of Tawongans for 2006. Our small, hearty alumni group met the children and parents at the Presidio and helped answer questions, load luggage and direct people to the right place. The buses even
left 10 minutes early!
By now, the kids have had their first night up at camp. I'm always amazed at both how much the land up there changes, and yet always seems familiar. This year, we lost a few prominent trees to age and disease, but some new ones have been planted. The new deck on the arts and crafts building looks beautiful, and the river is dramatically full this year. I imagine it'll stay high until the fall.
6.05.2006
Spring Family Camp
Our spring family camp was a huge success welcoming over 66 families (more than 250 people!) including parents, grandparents, babies, toddlers, children, and teens.





We all had a wonderful time and look forward to doing it all over again in August for our summer family camp!
5.15.2006
Tawonga Birthday
Birthdays are a big deal at

If you would like to make your camp friend's birthday just as special as it would be at camp, you can send them a Tawonga Blog Happy Birthday message. Email us with the information and a picture and we will post your bithday wishes.
Turning Back Time

Here is a sneak peak at this year’s Sourdoughs:
From top to bottom, and the bottom row from left to right: Mr. Banjo, Mrs. Marry Ellen Pleasant, Mr. Israel Joseph Benjamin, Mr. Simon Heimavitz, Mr. William “Angle Eyes” Preston, Mr. Samuel Brannan, Mrs. Virginia Reed Murphy, and Ms. Ykipapa.
4.20.2006
Israel Punk Rock Movie
Join Tawonga staff at the viewing of Liz Nord’s new movie Jericho’s Echo: Punk Rock in the Holy Land on April 27th at 7:15 P.M. or 9:15 P.M. at the Red Vic Moviehouse (1727 Haight Street, San Francisco). Liz Nord is the film maker Tawonga worked with to create our new DVD, and we look forward to seeing her newest film project. Jericho’s Echo was featured in the Washington, D.C. Jewish Film Festival and received five stars from the Toronto Eye Weekly. The movie is PG-13 for strong language. Learn more information about the film at: www.jerichosecho.com.

4.06.2006
Israeli Campers Return

Some of last year's Session IV Israeli campers stormed the Tawonga office last week taking pictures and giving lots of hugs. The teens were in town through the Diller Teen Fellowship and just HAD to come say hello. The teens gushed about how much they missed Tawonga and can’t wait to come back as ITs or staff members in the future. It was great to see you guys!
3.30.2006
New Board of Directors Members
Tawonga welcomes Michael Harris, Leslie Kleitman, Lori Polachek, and Andrew Pollack to the Camp Tawonga Board of Directors. Each one should be a great asset and helping hand to camp. Welcome to the Tawonga family!
Forms Packets Are Out!

The packet includes a guidebook, quest itineraries, a medical form for your doctor (time for that yearly physical!), info for the administrative staff (where you can request a bunk mate), and information to your counselor. You can also download the forms from the Tawonga website by choosing the ‘Registration’ link and then selecting ‘Camper Forms.’ The forms are due back into the Tawonga office by April 21st, but we always appreciate when they get arrive early (thanks to the 15 families who have already sent their completed forms back).
3.29.2006
New Tawonga Full Time Staff

Bookkeeper
1st summer
Kendra Sorensen is our new bookkeeper in charge of billing and accounts payable. If you have any questions about your bill or payment plan, Kendra Sorensen is just the person you need.
After receiving a degree from
3.15.2006
Alumni Give Back

Saturday March 11th, a group of Tawonga alumni visited the kids at the
Edgewood Center for Children and Families. The beautiful facility,
located on Vicente Street in San Francisco, is the oldest children's
charity in the Western United States. Founded in 1851 as a shelter
for orphans of the Gold Rush, it has been in continuous use since
then, evolving into a place of refuge for emotionally disturbed,
abused, and neglected children.
Ryley Share, head of the Community Service Committee of the Alumni
Association, put the event together and somehow even managed to get
the weather to cooperate as days of rain (and hail!) were interrupted
during our time at Edgewood with springlike weather.
Andy Grossman and Katie Somers kicked off the singalong portion of
the day, coaxing the apprehensive kids into song with a rousing
rendition of Here Comes the Sun. Mimi Gordon put a special
abbreviated edition of the Tawonga Songbook together for the group to
enjoy.
After both alumni and kids warmed up with singing, we adjourned to
the outside playground, where Elizabeth Rosser, Monica Pallie and
Larissa Siegel (who took time out from celebrating her birthday!) all
helped organize games that in the words of the facilities
coordinator: "Pulled some kids of their shells in ways that I have
just never seen before." Benjamin Packard and Debbie Pollack radiated
such energy that the kids naturally gravitated to their Tawonga
charisma.
Kudos to Ryley and the rest of the team, who came out on a cold
Shabbat morning to warm up the world a little bit with some truly
special children.
-Steve Gershik
Alumni Association President and Tawonga Board Member
To learn more go to the Tawonga Alumni Association website at http://groups.yahoo.com/group/tawonga/
Snow at Tawonga
Have you ever wondered what
Can you imagine SNOW at
2.13.2006
Tawonga DVD

The Camp Tawonga DVD has arrived! If you have already requested the DVD, it was mailed to you this week. If you would like us to send you a DVD, and you haven’t requested one yet, please give us a call or email us and we will send one right out! info@tawonga.org or (415) 543-2267
Slide Shows Galore!
With over 11 Slide Shows in 7 locations and presenting at over 10 Camper Fairs throughout the state Tawonga Staff are keeping busy and campers are signing up fast. Check out the upcoming Slide Shows at www.tawonga.org/presentation.html and call for upcoming Camper Fair Presentations in your area.
New Board of Directors Members
Tawonga welcomes Shannon Dubach-Reinhold, Nicole Goldstein, and Josh Leslie to the Camp Tawonga Board of Directors. The three new Board Members enjoyed an orientation and their first Board Meeting last night with the 17 other Board Members including the a executive committee: Richard Grabstein (President), Michael Katten (Vice President), Barbara Niss (Treasurer), and Michael Bien (Secretary). Welcome to the Tawonga family!
1.23.2006
Tawonga Celebration
If you were there, please share yours too -- there were so many people to talk with and so little time!
It was my first time in the "new" SF JCC and my first thought was what a beautiful building they constructed on the site of the old one. Melinna remarked on how you weren't hit with the scent of the pool chlorine once you walked in -- on the contrary, upon entering the building you are struck by the grand sense of place that it has become.
I don't know how many people attended, but it looked like several hundred, representing all different eras of camp. Kenny Colvin, the official "oldest" camper was there and gave a loving tribute to camp and to Ken, as were board members from throughout the ages.
There were moving speeches given by Diane Stern, Judy Edelson and others and Syd did a phenomenal job as M.C.
In addition to paying tribute to Ken's 25 years of stewardship of camp, the highlight of the evening for me was seeing former staff members and campers from the past quarter century of camp.
For me, as for many, camp was a defining moment in the direction of our lives, and it was so wonderful seeing the people who participated in that transformation. As Rabbi Andrew Davids so eloquently put it, "If I had to point to one experience that influenced the future direction of my life, it was camp."
What a memorable evening it was!
For those who weren't there to join us, or for those who want to keep the party going, we have a special reunion weekend planned at camp this fall.
Once again, we're going to close down the camp season with fun, family and freylach at the Second Annual Tawonga Alumni Reunion.
Mark your calendars now. It's October 13-15, 2006.
For more information, see http://www.tawonga.org/wf_alumni.html
Love,
Steve Gershik
Tawonga Alumni Association President & Current Tawonga Board Member
12.30.2005
Tawonga Full Time Staff
Sasha T. GoldbergReception
1st summer
If you have called the Tawonga office in the last few weeks you have probably heard her voice; Sasha is our new receptionist and financial aid coordinator. She comes to us originally from
12.28.2005
Mazel Tov Anna Kramarz!
On behalf of all of the Tawonga staff, Mazel Tov Anna!
12.05.2005
All lines are busy...

Friendly takeover! On Sunday December 4, 11 Alumni spent the day on the eight Tawonga office phone lines. They called over 400 former staff members, inviting them to join the Alumni Association. Click the link below to join the Alumni Association yourself and learn about our upcoming events!

Click to join tawonga
12.02.2005
EARLY REGISTRATION
The phone is ringing off the hook . . . "When does registration start?" parents ask. "Early Registration begins December 5th, and Open Registration begins December 26th!" Dan Harris, Office Manager, answers with giddy enthusiasm.

After printing and sending personalized registration forms to returning families, the Tawonga office is ready for the 2006 season to begin.

Mimi Gordon, Associate Director, can't wait until she can have dinner in the dining hall again.

11.21.2005
It's a photo of a photo . . . mailing.
In an exciting turn of events, Aaron Mandel and
11.18.2005
The 2006 Dates!
The dates for Tawonga's 2006 season are finalized and will be posted on the website soon, but here is a sneak peek just for you bloggers out there. Plus, as an added bonus, here is a little blurb about our new 2006 programs. Enjoy! We can't wait to see you next season.
Session I (entering 2nd – 7th grade): June 18 – June 23
Session II (entering 3rd – 10th grade): June 25 – July 7
Session III (entering 4th – 10th grade): July 9 – July 28
Session IV Carmel (entering 3rd – 6th grade): July 30 – August 11
Session IV (entering 6th – 10th grade): July 30 – August 18
Yosemite Quest (entering 7th – 8th grade): June 18 – June 23
High Sierra Quest (entering 9th – 11th grade): June 25 – July 7
Magical Mystery Tour (entering 9th – 11th grade): June 25 – July 7
Northwest Quest (entering 8th – 9th grade): July 9 – July 28
Surf ‘n Turf (entering 9th – 11th grade): July 9 – July 28
Canada Quest (entering 9th – 11th grade): July 30 – August 17
SIT/WIT/CIT (entering 11th – 12th grade): June 18 – July 7
Teen Service Learning Trip to
Grief and Growing Bereavement Weekend: May 19 – 21
Spring Family Camp: May 26 – 29
Summertime Family Camp: August 24 – 27
Peacemakers Camp: September 1 – 4
Special Needs Family Camp: September 8 – 10
Keshet LGBT Family Camp: September 14 – 17
Interfaith Weekend: October 6 – 8
Alumni
| Teen Trip to This summer fourty high school students will comprise the first ever Tawonga Teen Service Learning Trip. The four week trip will travel from the Negev to the |
| New Weekend for Interfaith Couples and Families For couples and families thinking about raising kids Jewishly or interested in having a Jewish household. With amazing rabbis, song leaders and Tawonga staff you are sure to have a great time and get your questions answered. Join us for a great Sukkot weekend. |
| New Family Camp for Children with Special Needs We want to share the beauty and magic of Tawonga with a wide variety of children with special needs. This weekend will give your family a chance to enjoy the unique blend of Judaism, nature and community which makes |
11.14.2005
What a wonderful, fabulous, fulfilling walk down memory lane Alumni Reunion Weekend was . . . not to mention being able to take in the wonders of all the growth that has taken place over the years. I can't wait for the next one.
Favorite moments that stood out for me . . . the sun and shadow of leaves shining through the Torah at the Saturday morning service, the smell of camp at night, watching Ben Catechi fall in love with Abigail Miller, Sam Gershik facing his fears on the Perch, Eva Newbrun in the birthday chair, Steve Gershik still being able to make me laugh at nothing, seeing former campers with babies of their own, Ken laughing at all the acts at the campfire, hearing Gabe call Deborah "Mom", singing along with David Cathechi . . . Ahh. There are many others of course, but those are a few to start.
Thanks to all.
Selah
11.03.2005
Rabin Memorial Service
7 PM
Main Sanctuary, Temple Emanu El
2 Lake Street, San Francisco















































