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Camp Gan Israel - Boys 5767

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Tes Tammuz - First day of Camp

"Welcome to La Guardia airport, this is a non smoking terminal; smoking is prohibited in the terminal. All passengers on Spirit flight 379 please make your way to the ticket counter to cheek in for your flight to Detroit. All members of the Gan Israel group please get in an orderly line so we can do this smoothly. Once you are checked in drop your bags at the security booth and make your way to gate B. Once at gate B make your way on to the aircraft."
“This is your captain speaking, we will be departing for Detroit momentarily, and I would just like to welcome all of the campers who are setting out for Lubavitch City. This is flight #379 and our flight time is 1:24 min., now if the stewardess can prepare the cabin for take off. Some time later… now that we are at our cruising altitude of 34,000 feet you may move about the cabin. Some more time later… we have now landed and welcome you to Detroit, all the camper of camp Gan Israel enjoy your ride up to Lake Valley Road.”
“Sit over here!”
“I’m hungry!”
“Are we there yet!”
“No!”
“Here's a sandwich!”
“A’ right a’ right, all campers listen up. This be your bus driver Francis, if y’all can take a seat and quiet down back there. The trip up to the camp be about 4 hours long so we be there by 6, and if everyone is quite I’ll tell you the story of the time when be and my dog Bounty went and found some…”

Dear Diary:
I can still here it in my ears “aaaaa ay ya ya ay de de di de de dum dum!!!!”. As we came off the bus from our ride from the air port we were greeted with thundering cries of welcome with, who I later found out to be, the counselors and learning teachers. It was great to finally be in the camp spirit. After 10 minutes of dancing we all made our way over to the Shul for the head counselors welcome and the bunk divisions and then I finally heard my name. “Levi Goldberg!” I ran to the front to join my bunk mates and meet my amazing counselor, we then went to unpack. After we all unpacked and got to know each other a little the PA announced “Mincha in two minutes in the Shul”. The feeling of a True camp Mincha can be a little overwhelming with all of that chayos in the same room but after Mincha we had a great dinner with an even better Bentching. After Marriv we were dismissed to go get ready for bed and then - “attention all campers and counselors lights out is in one minute so get ready for bed and prepare yourselves for the next, full, action packed day of camp” - well got to go, and I’m really looking forward to tomorrow.

Yud Tammuz - Hayom Yom Presentation

This is your CGI Detroit flag reporting live from the flagpole area. I see many campers in front of me trying to get their bunks in a straight line for lineup. Wait a second there is a camper coming towards me, and he’s pulling on my rope and, haaay. Wooh now I’m on top of the pole and I have a great view of the whole camp, oh and now the campers are off to Shachris...
...Whew! time files when you're having fun! It’s the flag reporting once again from Lake Valley Road, reporting to you on Exhibition Games 5767. All the campers are training hard, playing their designated sports, such as: Baseball, Hockey, Football, and others. They are being rated to decide for their team placement in CGI Detroit Leagues.

This is saying goodbye for the day, but wait I see campers lining up again. OH NO!! They’re taking me down, there goes my good view. Hey I just got a glimpse into the Shul and it’s beautifully decorated! They’re all singing 383. 383, whats that? Wha! all 3 head counselors are coming into the Shul!!!! HC Yitzi is taking the podium, and he is talking again (why is he always talking?). He’s speaking about the importance ho learning Hayom Yom. It sounds like there is going to be Hayom Yom’s posted all over camp, where the campers will be able to learn different ones every day and win lots and lots of prizes Wait did he say BIKE!?! It sounds like they are going to be raffling off tons and tons of Prizes I wish I could still be a camper it’s been so long! Now HC Yudi is getting up to speak OH MY GOSH!!!!!! look at that poster he is holding it’s huge, massive, enormous thing and there are pictures of the Rebbe on it looks like each camper is going to get their very own Poster and they are going to be able to win Pictures and stick them on the poster WOW!!!!!! Can’t wait till I fill up my poster and bring it home to show my friends!

Anyways got to run now! Because it’s getting dark and I can’t see so well anymore, we will be in touch tomorrow!

Yud Alef Tammuz - Bunk Cookout

Hey y’all its the flag here again letting you know I have been hoisted up here on the flag pole again and I have a great view of what’s going on. The problem is, I awoke a little late today and didn’t catch all of the on goings of camp. I woke up because of a strong smell of fuel and coal and then I heard singing with such emotion and zest I looked around and saw all of the campers with there arms around each other. There were having a special bunk cook out/Farbreingen in honor of Yud Beis Tammuz. Some bunks were Fressing hotdogs while others were singing with their whole heart and soul, they were singing the Yud Beis Tammuz Niggun. Then I heard a learning teacher Farbreinging very intensely with a bunk. He was talking about the Mesiras Nefesh of the Freierdike Rebbe, while the campers were enjoing their hot 'Farbeisen'!
After Maariv there were a number of bunks that I noticed were staying in the Shul a little late I saw HC.Y.S Talking to them it looked like he wanted to reward them for there beautiful day in camp he gave them GAGA. GAGA?!?!?!?! What’s that? I have no clue but I saw all the campers jumping up and down and having a ball (no pun intended!!)

That’s it for today folks (I heard the Head Counselors talking and it sounds like tomorrow is going to be a spectacular day) so stay tuned and I’ll be back for more.

Yud Beis Tammuz - Farbrengens

Hey everybody, it's me again . Yup yup you got it. It's Flag reporting live once again from the center of camp where my keen view gives me the facts of all the ongoing happenings everyday and any day.
I woke up bright and early to the humming and singing of many campers. They were skipping and hopping around . "Where are you going," I asked one of them (forgetting that I didn't want them to know that I can hear and speak). One of the kids responded, "It's Yud Beis Tammuz and we are going to learn Chassidus. The whole camp is learning extra Chassidus today in honor of this special day". They did it right after line up . It was amazing and beautiful. The A-Frame was packed from wall to wall and it was SOOOOOO loud. Everyone was learning with such enthusiasm that it sounded like a real Beis Hamedrash.

I was able to feel it in the air. There were campers wearing white shirts, others humming the Yud Beis Tammuz Niggun. I really felt uplifted, especially when it came to learning classes when I saw again from my "Birds eye View" the learning teachers all going to class with big CD Players . Were they going to teach music?! There were also signs all around camp reading "The Rebbe's Farbreingen". All the campers then learnt a Sicha, filled out a sheet translating all the Yiddish words and then all the learning teachers played the tape of the Rebbe saying the Sicha. It was sooooo nice and inspiring.

When dinner time came I got a sneak peak of the dining room. It was set up beautifully with colored table cloths and a big sign hanging from the wall. I later asked a camper what it was and he told me it's a Yud Beis Tammuz Farbreingen. Anyways, they sang lots of songs and they heard the whole story of the Frierdiker Rebbe's arrest and liberation.

Later I got a perfect view of that night's night activity. They played a very intense game of escape from Russia. They were running and trying not to get caught from the scary KGB agents (they were really staff just trying to throw around authority 'cuz they usually don't like to). It was a lot allot allot of fun at least that's the way it sounded.

Yud Gimmel Tammuz - Erev Shabbos

I woke up really early today from alot of hushing and whispering I wasn’t sure what they were doing but they were ducking and running I saw them climb into the van, chuck some things in the back and they drove off I couldn’t see what they were doing and where they were going but they were the only bunk up.
Camp continued as regular the rest of the camp came to line up but they still weren’t back I don’t even think the head counselor noticed that they were missing. I then offered him one of the brand new pictures of the Rebbe to fill up his brand new poster hanging prominently next to his bed. After such an offer how could he refuse. He began telling me that his counselor woke him up nice and early and asked him if he would like to go somewhere fun without asking the Head counselors at first he was very hesitant, he thought that the last thing he needed was for head Counselor Y.S. to start yelling his brains out again in a nice calm way! Anyways we drove for about 45 minutes and headed DIRECLY TO THE LAKE AND NO WHERE ELSE…… Right away we Davened by the lake in EXACTLY 45 minutes no more and no less we than had eggs “Al Ha’aish” on the water as well wow it was so spiritual ---the boy started getting carried away I was about to strangle him again but I was being watched by all the campers because it was in middle if rest period - we than thought we were going back to camp when we stopped by Go Karting!!!!!!!! It was lots of fun I almost smashed my Go Kart into my counselor's Go Kart when all the sudden I hit the brake, and came to a spectacular halt. At that point we finally headed back and we came back just in time for learning classes as I heard 3 2 1 learning classes begins right now learning classes begin right now I slid right into the table - - - FEWWWWWW I was safe…

Well the kid carried on with his day as usual, regular bed side inspection H.C Y.S through his whole cubby over because he didn’t think it was too neat. He had too refold the whole thing but it could have been allot worse I guess… I tried cheering my little friend up but by them Shabbos was coming and the had to put me a way till after Shabbos.

Yud Daled Tammuz - 1st Shabbos in camp

Wow - What a Shabbos! The Chayus and energy starting with the Niggunim from the beginning of Lecha Dodi lasted all the way to the announcing of the Shabbos competition winners. Well let me start from the beginning - although the flag remained lowered, I remained perched and saw all the exciting happenings from Shabbos. Shabbos started off with a bang, all the campers sang together with total Chayus and energy. The meal which was run by H.C.S.S. also had the same theme as the campers sat for hours singing and Farbreinging with L.D.M.S. In the morning all the campers sat and learned Chassidus for a ½ hour together with their learning teachers. Davening was beautiful followed by auctioning of the Aliyos for the campers favorite staff members for a large amount of Mishnayos and Tanya Beal Peh. The meal was enjoyed by all with many songs. Hey - even I have a great voice. Then every learning class had a Kvutza Farbrengen which I saw Niggunim being sung and inspirational words heard by all. Mishanayos baal peh saw many campers trying to learn those last few lines. Shalosh Seudos was enjoyed by all with tunes sung by all and delicious food enjoyed.
Shabbos competition came to an exciting close with a smashing Maariv and then came the winners… Bunk Gimmel and the runner ups… Bunk Zayin! What an exciting Shabbos for everyone!!!

Tes Vov Tammuz - Ice Skating!

Sunday started out being just another day here in CGI (if that’s possible). The campers woke up regular time to the Niggunim being blasted over the PA system, I was then lifted to my normal viewpoint over the entire camp. Learning classes ran on schedule with the campers running off after the cries of “Learning Never Ends” over the PA.

Then during lunch H.C.Y.S. got up and started talking about something about having a good time in Gan Yisroel. Every time he started talking he was interrupted by the roaring of a repair man’s drill. H.C. Yitzy nicely asked the guy to stop for a few minutes while he finishes, the repair man ignored him! H.C. Yitzy asked him to please leave for a few minutes and then come back and the man suggested Yitzy should leave and come back in a few minutes. When Yitzy started screaming at him to finally leave the man screamed back, I'm gonna leave but I'm gonna take the whole camp with me skating and swimming!!! I KNEW IT THE WHOLE TIME! We were then asked to pack up a sweater, flashlight, camera, bathing suit. Before I knew it I was thrown in someones bag and we were at the Otsego County Sportsplex. We were given all the safety rules, and I was splashing around with all my camper friends. We were then treated to a delicious barbecued meal prepared by the staff. Wait theres more -- I found my correct skate size and was soon going around, and around in circles enjoying the energizing music, and silly announcements! Practically every camper and flag was told to stand in 5 different group pictures in the center of the rink. Look for my picture on this site soon! We had a Chayusdike Davening under the moon and were soon back on our way to Lubavitch City. Another exciting day for all the campers and flags in Gan Yisroel!

Tes Zayin Tammuz - Shabbos Competition Trips

“Good morning tayere campers, good morning tayere staff, good morning Machne Gan Yisroel!” I awoke to, starting to turn over - I remembered that all the campers are waiting for me by line up and just in time for the countdown to line up I made it over to my usual viewpoint over camp. Today I decided to walk around - during learning classes I heard some fantastic stories, learned some Mishnayos, ended up by Gemoro and made it back to my position just in time to see someone building some sort of new structure right in the center of camp. “What is it?” everyone was wondering, “is it the new bunk houses?” I still don’t know but it looks like a good place to relax during rest period and enjoy all my canteen nosh. As always, during the break all the campers went over to the Hayom Yom booth to get tested on 2 Hayom yoms by heart. Wait - but what are those 2 vans getting ready to pull out of camp? Oh, it’s the shabbos competition winners on their way… JETBOATING!!!! Never a dull moment! We later enjoyed a delicious pizza supper, and drank lots of water to prepare for the fast tomorrow. Gotta run, just a few minutes left!

Yud Zayin Tammuz - Fast Day

I am so hungry! After I watched the campers finish their extra long davening with selichos, I saw the campers who weren’t fasting head over into the A-Frame to eat and bentch. I am so jealous. (I had my 13th flag birthday just over a year ago!) Morning learning classes were normal with the classes learning all the halachos about a Taanis Tzibur. I then snuck in to listen to L.D.M.S. give a general learning class to the entire camp. Following that there was the annual GRAND CAMPER - STAFF BASEBALL GAME! After a very enthusiastic game, the score came out to be… 13 to 15 and the campers WIN!!! Following Mincha, this years Mishayos Beal Peh program details were introduced. This years program features many creative, and fun ideas to encourage all of us campers and flags to learn many more lines and earn loads of prizes at the same time. A delicious supper was served to break the fast followed by a grand string hunt game. And the winners of that grand game were bunks Beis, Gimmel, and Daled YAY!!! Just before I went to sleep, I heard the staff saying tomorrow is going to be another extra special day - stay tuned for more updates!

Yud Ches Tammuz - Overnight!

Hey! Whats happening- why am I being woken up so early? Its so early, and the PA is blasting telling me to be in the shul in just 20 minutes- whats going on over here? I watched all the campers quickly run into the shul all wondering the same thing. H.C. Yudi finished Shachris rapidly and we were all dismissed into the A - Frame for breakfast. All the staff then started chanting Beevowack or something like that. H.C. Yitzi then got up and explained that in just a 1/2 hour busses will be pulling out from camp and heading out to.... for the older bunks - The Manistee River for a 2 hour canoe ride and the younger bunks... Bowling followed by a grand overnight! Oh, so thats what a beevowack is. Before we knew it the counselors were shoving bags preprinted with everyones names and instructions of what to pack. In just a few minutes I was put into the van on the way to the trips. Everyone had a great time- the older bunks accompanied by a staff member enjoyed their canoe trip (only tipped a few times) and the younger bunks knocked all those pins down. Everyone together then joined together at the overnight site and began collecting wood, davened mincha, and had a general learning class while the staff prepared a delicious supper which we all enjoyed. The bonfires were then lit while everyone snuggled their sleeping bags around, we sang songs and listened to stories and before I knew it my eyes began to close. Good night, and more on the end of the overnight tomorrow!

Yud Tes Tammuz - Overnight & Staff Play!

I woke up this morning as soon as the sun came out snuggled in my sleeping bag fully dressed because I fell asleep last night listening to a story when I just fell asleep just after enjoying 10 marshmallows. H.C.Y.S, H.C.S.S, and O.M.S.K. then went around waking everyone up telling everyone that there is exactly 15 minutes until flag raising (where am I going to be raised, I don’t see a flag pole?) Everyone quickly packed up their stuff, threw it into garbage bags, (huh?) and lined up with their bunk just as in camp. We all said pesukim, ad mossai, and then the moment of my glory arrived I was hoisted up to display my pride of Gan Yisroel. Following this we had a smashing Shachris out in the wilderness, followed by a delicious meal straight off the frying pan. I am still not sure why none of the staff were eating, they said they were still fleishig or something but it is almost 12 hours since we finished hotdogs?! After another enthusiastic bentching, everyone had a contest to see how much garbage we could collect. Once the staff inspected to make sure the place was really left spotless and nothing was left behind, we boarded the busses and returned to camp. Upon arrival we were instructed to rest up for a few hours in order to have strength for the rest of an exciting day here in Gan Yisroel. The rest of the day seemingly was regular (but I discovered here nothing is as it seems) until later when we were instructed to daven outside instead of in the shul as usual. The day just seemed to get even more odd when I noticed during supper that there were very few staff eating with us. H.C. Yitzy then got up and explained to us that this evening we have a very special treat, that our hard working staff even though they were exhausted, prepared for us a… STAFF PLAY! We were then dismissed to quickly get into our pajamas and then hurry back to lineup. As soon as we were dismissed I ran into the shul to get a good place and sat down and enjoyed the talented staff as they weaved together the story of R’ Mordechai in Russia and his many encounters and as they taught us how to connect to the Rebbe even though its hard physically. More on this tomorrow! After another REALLY exciting day we were dismissed to our beds and fell asleep as soon as the P.A. announced lights out. Until tomorrow and whatever is in store for us then- good night.

Chof Tammuz - Erev Shabbos and The Rebbe's Farbrengen

Wow, what an exciting week! After three exciting, action packed days we got a bit of a late start on Friday morning. I, your friendly flag, was so excited to once again be raised high up in the air over another day in CGI.
Signs all over camp announced that a special farbrengen from the Rebbe would be learnt in learning classes. Each learning teacher translated every word of the sicha for his learning class. Once everybody understood the sicha perfectly the campers got to hear the actual sicha being said by the Rebbe on a CD player.

"Learning Never Ends!" The classes dispersed and the campers enjoyed their (slightly shortened due to lack of time) Erev Shabbos activities. After a round of exciting league games camp was sent off to their bunks for cleanup.

After thoroughly cleaning their bunks, writing letters home, and showering each bunk was inspected for cleanliness by one of the head counselors. Upon the inspection's conclusion the campers took a few minutes to enjoy some fresh hot Erev Shabbos kugel and they were off to learning classes once again. This time the campers learnt the words and the history of the niggun " stav ya pitu". Once again, they got to hear how Rebbe himself sang the niggun at a farbrengen.

See you next week, Gut Shabbos!

Chof Alef Tammuz - Second Shabbos in camp!

Good Shabbos!
Once again camp was filled with chayus and energy beginning with the first niggun of lecha dodi. The entire camp joined hands swaying to the slow niggunim and dancing to the freiliche niggunim. It was a lengthy but very exciting davening.

The meal was followed by an inspiring farbrengen led by L.D.M.S. lifted the campers and staff in song and spirit.

During shacharis on Shabbos morning, the seven aliyot and maftir were auctioned off. For the very first time a new system of "hole-punches" (for every line on an individual level learns, a camper can receive a hole punched in to his card to redeem for prizes) and was used to sell the aliyos for the staff and Bar Mitzva bochurim.

The meal saw the entire camp joined together in song once again. The learning classes farbrenged together and throughout camp niggunim and words of Torah could be heard. After the farbrengens all the campers were sent off to learn Mishanyos Baal Peh.

A delicious Shalosh Seudos was served along with hilarious entertainment from Shmaryonky and his friends. H.C. Shimmy led the crowd in several spirited songs and after repeated demands of "Shimmy make a kula" from the campers Shimmy made a Kula :). Wow!

Immediately following maariv the shabbos competition winners were announced and they are none other than... Bunk Tes and Bunk Zayin! These lucky bunks will be treated to a well deserved trip sometime this week.

Gutte nacht and Chassidishe Chaloimois!

Chof Beis Tammuz - Visiting Day!

So many faces that I don't recognize! Who is that guy? Oh, today's visiting day, and a beautiful day at that. The day started gloomily with pouring rain, but later the sun broke through the clouds and shone brightly letting all our visitors enjoy the wonderful grounds of Lubavitch City.
Following learning classes camp was dismissed to enjoy the day. The kitchen served a delicious lunch besides all the food available in the canteen. All day long various activities were available for our visitors' enjoyment. The guests enjoyed boating on our magnificent lake, a grand staff-camper-visitor baseball came with and hikes through our huge wooded grounds. Many visitors stopped by to admire the new bunkhouses which were just completed.

The wonderful staff ensured that campers without visitors enjoyed their day as well. They acted as the visitors and treated some to canteen, while others took their campers to enjoy the many activities.

After a very successful, busy, and exciting visiting day in CGI it had to come to a close as do all good things, with the beginning of learning classes. Many parents looked on as camp got right back into the CGI spirit. Children sat in learning class and stood at attention for our legendary lineup and flag lowering.

After mincha and supper, the campers were dismissed for night activity…. CAPTURE THE COUNSELOR! Campers were running around trying to grab the colorful ribbon that the cunning staff members had hanging from their belts.

Maariv brought yet another exciting day at CGI to a close. With many more great treats in store for our dear campers in the coming days I must say, "Good night Machne Gan Yisroel"!

Chof Gimmel Tammuz - Grand Trip Breakout!

Before all the campers (as well as myself included)could start missing their parents after a really exciting visiting day, began another awesome day in Gan Yisroel. Hashem decided that he wanted to show he is capable of all forms of weather, so we started out the day with a little rain. Learning classes were held indoors, but that didn't stop anyone. B"H, by the time lunch was over we were able to resume regular activities.
The day continued as usual until supper. When we all walked into the dining room we found that the tables weren't set, the food wasn't ready, and the waiters were nowhere to be found! HC Yudi quickly took control and all the staff pitched in to quickly and efficiently serve the food. Head Waiter Leibel walked in and began complaining to H.C.Y.S. that the waiters work all day and deserve a break and that's what happened. The H.C. demanded that the waiters quickly get over to the A-Frame and resume their jobs because that's what we all do! The argument became so heated that they had to be separated. Soon all the staff got involved in the argument. Suddenly, the waiters burst into the room with a cry of COLOR WAR! The staff and waiters joined together in a spirited circle of singing and dancing.

Following bentching, camp was sent to the shul to be split up into teams. Judge Yitzi explained the team names, the idea of color war and split all the campers onto team red - "Neshama D'atzilus", and team blue - "Neshama Dibreya". The staff for each team was then announced to the cheers of all. After a smashing Maariv, with many prizes and nosh distributed, the first scavenger was presented. The team of "Neshama D'atzilus"'s staff hilariously showed a doctor treating one of the Head Counselor's who said his camp was on wheels -- bus wheels, to the GRAND TRIP!!!

Once again the dancing erupted on stage with all the campers now completely confused. H.C. Yitzi explained that early tomorrow morning camp would be getting onto busses for a long ride for a very fun time. Details soon to be announced. The campers were sent immediately to bed for a short but quality bit of rest. Check back tomorrow and I'll let you know all about the Grand Trip!

Chof Daled Tammuz - GRAND TRIP!

Music is blasting in my ears. I turned over and looked at the clock. I don't think it's appropriate to even write what time it was. The voice on the loudspeaker told us to grab all the things we'll need for the day and run to lineup. Following lineup, we were dismissed onto three massive comfortable charter busses to continue our sleep. After a few hours of driving (with Shachris already davened on the buses) we arrived at Silver Lake State Park. The waiters already had breakfast prepared, and the every staff member had already been assigned a group of campers to take along and enjoy all the activities.
There were three amazing activities, and we did them all! We started out going go-carting and bumper boating. We then moved on to speed boating and tubing. Finally we were picked up on big jeeps and went for a ride in the sand dunes.

Having completed our quest for fun in the sun, we jumped right back onto the busses, heard stories throughout the ride and arrived at this massive bowling alley that the camp had all for itself. To the tunes of niggunim and the delicious lunches served right to our lanes, we knocked those pins down. After 2 amazing games we bentched together and jumped right back onto the busses. (The day just never seems to end!) A few more hours on the road, mincha davened, and we arrived at Mackinaw Island and more specifically to Thunder Falls Water park- the biggest water park in the state of Michigan!

We quickly changed into our bathing suits and got lost in the maze of huge slides. We floated slowly around on tubes through the lazy river, and splashed through the wave pool. After several hours of SUPERWET fun, we lined up, got dressed, and then enjoyed a huge and delicious BBQ right in the park. Following bentching, we davened and got right back onto the busses. The lights were turned off to allow us to go to sleep, but I think the staff fell asleep before the campers did. When I woke up we were pulling onto Lake Valley Road and as soon as the bus came to a halt. I switched sleeping positions and rolled right into my bed. After the BEST grand trip in CGI's history, we were ready to call it a night!

Chof Hei Tammuz - Lazy Day

Well, if there ever was a day that there's not much to say about- today would be the day. Its lazy day! We got up pretty late, and unlike the regular schedule following revile, had a small cleanup. We did our regular flag raising, saying the 12 pesukim with as much energy as we went down those water slides with. Everyone saluted as the flag was raised showing our pride as the symbol of our camp was raised high above the heads of all the campers. As the campers were dismissed to the shul for Shachris, H.C. Shimmy decided to practice his morning exercises with everyone. He made everyone do their jumping jacks, stretches, touching toes, etc.
Davening carried on as usual, H.C. Yudi selected one of the bar mitzvah bochurim from bunk yud to be chazzan. The bunks were marked for their concentration, as they followed along in the siddur, davening every word aloud. A delicious breakfast of pancakes, enjoyed by all was vacuumed up as soon as it was served, followed by another smashing bentching. The bunks were dismissed to wash up, and then head over to their learning classes.

Today, learning classes was significantly shorter due to the shorter schedule. After the call on the P.A. of "Learning Never Ends", all the bunks again lined up, this time so one of the H.C.'s could check the cleanliness of campers hands to make sure all are ready for lunch. Another delicious meal and bentching passed, the campers were then dismissed to enjoy canteen, and play their fun activities with their bunks and teams. After snacks and drinks were served, campers were again dismissed to their learning class to learn hilchos tzitzis. Another lineup with more pesukim shouted with chayus as we watched the flag being lowered for the day.

Following supper, the campers were dismissed for their night activity of… STRATEGO! Just like the board game, each of the campers were assigned a position of which they were to protect their discreet flag hiding among their ranks. After 2 exciting games, the sky's let out the rain, and the campers were sent to the shul for maariv, krias shema, and a video of the Rebbe. After showers, brushing teeth, negel vaser, all were once again ready to climb into bed and say good night Gan Yisroel.

Chof Vov Tammuz - Siyum Harambam!

From the moment we woke up, the theme of the day was Rambam. During lineup this morning, during breakfast and over the PA system, the Rambam theme song (which was composed last year and used in many camps since) was playing and being sung by all. During learning classes, the learning teachers taught a sicha of the rebbe regarding the last halacha of Rambam. Following learning classes, the sicha was played over the PA.
During supper, a special seudah and farbrengen was enjoyed by all. The tables were set to their finest, programs were placed at every setting, and delicious meals were served to all. The HC's spoke and stressed how through fulfilling the Rebbe's takanos we can connect to our Rebbe and through learning Rambam we can connect to every single yid throughout the world.

H.C.Yitzi introduced a massive campaign which will continue throughout the year, of quizzes, raffles, and prizes for all those who participate and learn the sefer hamitzvos of that day. Booklets of the Rambam for the rest of the summer were distributed, and all were inspired. The campers then heard from L.D. Mendel who farbrenged with them and sang several songs together. Following maariv, the campers were dismissed to their bunk. With new hachlotos made, encouraged and resolute the campers all retired for another night in Gan Izzy!

Chof Zayin Tammuz - Erev Shabbos

After another action packed week we got a bit of a late start on Friday morning. I, your friendly flag, was so excited to once again be raised high up in the air over another day in CGI.
Signs all over camp announced that a special farbrengen from the Rebbe would be learnt in learning classes. Each learning teacher translated every word of the sicha for his learning class. Once everybody understood the sicha perfectly the campers got to hear the actual sicha being said by the Rebbe on a CD player.

"Learning Never Ends!" The classes dispersed and the campers enjoyed their (slightly shortened due to lack of time) Erev Shabbos activities. After a round of exciting league games camp was sent off to their bunks for cleanup.

After thoroughly cleaning their bunks, writing letters home, and showering each bunk was inspected for cleanliness by one of the head counselors. Upon the inspection's conclusion the campers took a few minutes to enjoy some fresh hot Erev Shabbos kugel and they were off to learning classes once again. This time the campers learnt the words and the history of the niggun "tzomoh lecho nafshi"- russian. Once again, they got to hear how Rebbe himself sang the niggun at a farbrengen.

Until next week, Gut Shabbos!

Chof Ches Tammuz - Third SMASHING Shabbos in camp!

Good Shabbos!

Once again camp was filled with chayus and energy beginning with the first niggun of lecha dodi. The entire camp joined hands swaying to the slow niggunim and dancing to the freiliche niggunim. It was a lengthy but very exciting davening.

The entire shabbos campers were talking about and fulfilling their new important hachloto of learning sefer hamitzvos every day from their beautiful booklets they received.

During shacharis on Shabbos morning, the seven aliyos and maftir were auctioned off. Aliyos were given to several staff members who have birthdays in the coming week. The amount of learning that was pledged throughout the auction was incredible!

The meal saw the entire camp joined together in song once again. H.C. Yitzi taught seral new linely camp songs and then after much pleading did a full kula! The learning classes farbrenged together and throughout camp niggunim and words of Torah could be heard. After the farbrengens all the campers were sent off to learn Mishanyos Baal Peh.

A delicious Shalosh Seudos was served along with hilarious entertainment from Shmaryonky and his friends. Today was camper Mendele Shmotkin for Milwalkees birthday and he led camp in a chayusdike brocho of "Horochamon"!

Immediately following maariv the shabbos competition winners were announced and they are none other than... Bunk Hei and Bunk Beis! These lucky bunks will be treated to a well deserved trip sometime this week. Many bunks stayed up past lights out for special late nights in canteen, sports, or survival.

Gutte nacht and Chassidishe Chaloimois!

Chof Tes Tammuz - Color War Breakout!

Wow! That was an amazing day! I can't even hold myself in as I tell you all about the excitement that happened in the last few hours. It started out as a pretty regular day in a pretty awesome camp. The day got off to a pretty slow start because so many bunks were up late last night enjoying activities with their counselors and staff members.
After a regular lineup and a great breakfast, there was a general learning class in the shul led by L.D. Mendel. For lunch, there was one last fleishig meal served before the nine days began, and it was enjoyed by all. Following lunch, a bus arrived- For whom? The four Shabbos competition winners from the past two weeks were put on the bus to have a great time... Ice Skating!!! Meanwhile anyone who was left had an awesome time with the regular activities in camp.

Following learning classes and the buses return, lineup for flag lowering was held. After the pesukim, H.C. Yitzi announced to all that camp will be going on one last trip before the nine days to.... Bowling!!! The youngest bunks were dismissed on to the bus, but still the other buses had still not arrived- so more bunks were sent to the same bus. Still waiting, the final bunks were dismissed onto that same one bus- the entire camp on one bus!!! There was also only one van for the entire staff body which then headed out followed by the bus, both heading slowly due to the sheer mass of people. We continued going past Lake Valley Road until the M-72, when the bus driver said that she could not continue driving being that the speed was not safe for main roads. After a small disscussion between the head staff and the bus driver about what was going to be with the trip the staff from the van burst onto the bus breaking out COLOR WAR!!!

We returned to camp, the teams were split, the devoted staff who worked on making color war a success were announced. General Yitzi of the team of Zechus explained how it is our merit to represent the Rebbe as his shluchim. General Mendel of the team of Achrayus added to that and said the as the Rebbes shluchim we have a strong responsibility to be the image of the Rebbe in all we do. Following an amazing supper and bentching, the teams were dismissed into the shul for 4 hilarious scavengers and a dynamic maariv and Krias Shema. By now, it's pretty late and everyone needs their chayus and energy because we have a zechus and an achrayus as the Rebbe's Shluchim!

See ya tomorrow for another smashing day of Shlichus War!!!

Alef Av - Day 1 Color War, Plays and Songs!

We got off to to the first full day of color war with a smashing start. Many campers got up before reville to fulfill their Mishnayos Baal-Peh quota and earn extra points for their respective teams. Lineup was as usual in front of the flagpole, but the lines snaked far back. Both teams showed their chayus with dynamic enthusiasm in leading the 12 pesukim aloud. We heard a camper from each team teach a halacha in front of camp following shachris.

Regular learning classes were held, followed by team time where the teams learnt their theme songs which were presented by lunch. Activities were held for each bunk, team versus team followed by Mincha outside of the A Frame because the staff were building the plays inside.

Throughout the professional, entertaining, dramatic, and hillarious plays, we watched unknown talent unfold as each team brought out their theme in a story line. After many hours of enjoyment, the judges sent us off to bed so we will be well rested for another awesome day of Shlichus War!!!

Beis Av - Day 2 Color War, Grand Sing!

All the campers worked hard to finish their Mishanyos Baal Peh quota and earn extra points for their team. A lineup that could have knocked off the roof was held as the campers said the pesukim with such chayus and enthusiasm. The energy only grew as the day progressed, through shachris, bentching, and the Generals' dismissal. The halacha skits presented hilarious outlooks on mikvah and kiddush with much entertainment from our dear staff.
A short learning class, followed by team time to learn the Alma matter and practice it in time for the evenings Grand Sing. Again, there were tournaments held between both teams.

All day long the staff was hard at work designing and building the Grand Sing so the meals were held outside. The campers soon got into their costumes and entered the A-frame. All were wowed by the complexity of the props and backdrops. The judges came in and went onto the viewing stand to mark the setup, costumes, songs, and teams' chayus through the night.

The team of Zechus were dressed up as musicians and stood at attention as General Yitzi came out of the stage dressed as a conductor. The campers of team Achrayus were dressed as flight attendants and the staff were dressed as TSA security, they watched as General Mendel dressed as a pilot came out of the control tower. Both teams presented their songs and hilarious grammen as Judges Sakovsky, Susskind, Shmotkin, and Gourarie looked on. The evening reached a climax as both teams rocked the house with songs and niggunim. With the final maariv, a very successful Shlichus War came to a close with all of the campers so much more knowledgeable in the Zechus and Achrayus of Shlichus. The campers, exhausted after a long day, retired to their beds.

Gimmel Av - WINNERS and Bonfire!

After a late start due to the late night and sheer exhaustion from the exciting days that passed, Gan Yisroel got right back into full swing. Shachris, breakfast, and then learning classes went back to regular camp schedule until the PA announced everyone should line up with their color war teams to hear the winners.
The lines were formed, pesukim were said, and then the judges came out. They said how close of a competition it was, but there was one team which brought out their theme in a stronger way and proved itself with chayus and energy. The winning team was none other than.... TEAM ZECHUS!!! The judges, generals, and staff were dunked in the lake while the campers were dismissed for lunch.

During activities, some narrowed down teams played playoff tournaments. The rest of the day continued as normal, until just after maariv when H.C. Shimmy announced that the entire camp would be going on a walk to the bonfire site for a massive bonfire.

Sure enough after the nice walk with the staff, we saw the 45 ft. high bonfire. Together we sang songs, watched fireworks, ate marshmallows and heard a story followed by dismissal for lights out. As the countdown for lights out was made, we heard the staff singing goodbye song after goodbye song until finally the lights were turned off for another night in Gan Yisroel.

Daled Av - YK Play, Staff Gift, Test, Learning Trip, BUNK COMPETITON!

Wow, as camp goes on the days just get more exciting!!! Today started out as a regular day, beginning with lineup and continuing the schedule until learning classes. The morning classes there were chazara for the test. The campers went over as much of what they learnt over this month in Gan Yisroel as quickly as possible. All the campers were then gathered into the A - Frame for the test where all the campers did a superb job!
Following lunch, the campers who especially excelled in learning classes were treated to a special trip... Ice Skating! The campers who went had an awesome time, and then joined the rest of camp who were having a good time of their own enjoying activities in camp.

After supper, H.C.Y.S. got up and said how much we owe the staff for their constant dedication, devotion and care which they give 24 hours a day every day of their precious summer to the campers. He continued to say that as a small token appreciation from camp they will be presented with a gift. He handed out to each staff after calling them up with all their honors due to them a nicely wrapped package. Once they were all given out, a bed was brought in covered with a beautiful blanket, pillow case, and sheets with gan yisroel artwork on it. I hope they will find some time to make use of it!!!

We were then informed that we would be treated to a special production from the "other side of camp". Yeshivas Kayitz toiled to weave together a spectacular play outside the time of their learning. The amazing play had the campers quite enthralled.

Finally, after a month of hard work, the bunk competition winners were announced. There was so much excitement in the shul as the bunks sat at the edge of their seats to hear who would win an exciting trip and the honor of being the winners of bunk competition. The winners were none other than... Bunks TES and ZAYIN!!! They leaped up and celebrated their well deserved victory, anxiously awaiting the fun in store for them tomorrow.

After another long (and tiring) day, the campers were sent to bed.

Hei Av - Erev Shabbos, Niggunim, Bunk Competition TRIP!!!

After so many exciting happenings the day before, most of camp got off to a late start. The 2 bunks who won bunk competition went on a stupendous, awesome, exciting, trip - PARASAILING with H.C.Y.S. and E.C.A.D.M.S.! They had an amazing time and arrived back to camp later in the day and went right off for a well deserved nap.
Meanwhile the rest of camp was enjoying their regular Friday schedule, with learning classes, activities, and finally all of camp went to cleanup for Shabbos. Normally at this time, the campers write letters home, however since the campers are going to rejoin their families so soon, the campers wrote beautiful letters to their favorite staff member. The learning class in the afternoon had the campers learning the history of the niggun Asader Lesudasah and ending with the niggun played over the P.A. system.

With just a few minutes left the campers headed to the shul for the fourth and final shabbos in camp.

Vov Av - Final FANTASTIC Shabbos in Camp!!!

The shabbos started with a bang, as all the bunks wanted to be the winners of this final shabbos competition in camp. Mincha began with such chayus, followed immedately by a Kabbalas Shabbos like CGI Detroit has never seen before. This week had a special theme of Shabbos Shluchim as shluchim from every state packed the stage to begin a niggun for lecha dodi. The final 2 stanzas were led by our shluchim in camp, the staff began a lebidike, chassidishe niggun and the singing and dancing spilled out of the shul and onto the steps of the A-Frame. The rest of the night continued with the same warmth as the staff sat, sang, and farbrenged with the campers. Many of the campers stayed and enjoyed an optional farbrengen with the head staff after the meal was over.

In the morning the entire camp was up early learning chassidus with their breakfast. A beautiful Shachris, kriah, and then mussaf earned many of the campers beautiful pictures of the Rebbe. The meal stretched for a long time as campers and staff together sang songs of how they will miss camp and reminiscing about days that have passed. As always, there were farbrengens with learning teachers, campers made many hachlotos that will make the energy of a CGI summer last throughout the year.

5,4,3,2,1 and mishnayos baal peh war began, the campers were split into 2 teams as both teams tried to learn more mishnayos and tanya baal peh. Both teams, taharas haavir and taharas haneshama, learnt a lot and earned tons of nosh. Shalosh seudos had H.C. Yudi making a kula and a hillarios shamaryonkee, together with the resounding camp songs. Finally the camp went into the shul for maariv and havdala with many bunks being dismissed for a special late night with their counselor.

Tomorrow will be a long, final day and we need our rest. GOOD NIGHT CGI!!!

Zayin Av - Last day of camp...

I cant believe this day has already arrived. As soon as the campers were awoken, they were sent off to mikvah in their bathing suits. Today, all of camp will be writing panim to the Rebbe expressing their feelings and thanks after a succesful summer and telling the Rebbe what hachlotos they made with their bunk and counselor. Following mikvah and davening the campers were dismissed to their learning class to talk about what it means to write to the Rebbe and to sit down quietly and put their feeling on paper.
Breakfast was served and announcements were made with instructions on packing. All campers were dismissed to their bunk where their counselor helped them get all their belongings back into their suitcases. After a few hours, there was lineup and lunch. Again the campers were dismissed to pickup their remaining canteen money, arts and crafts projects, go to the lost and found, and trade pictures of the Rebbe. All campers were then brought into the shul for the final mincha of camp. The chayus and feeling of everyone davening together was really beautiful to see.

Everyone then went into the dining room one last time for a grand banquet which was prepared and setup as a real feast. All the tables were set with fancy cutlery, balloons, programs, and songsheets. After hearing opening remarks from the head counselors, many campers received awards for excelling in learning classes, thir bunks, mishnayos baal peh, and sports. Also, a special sefer hamitzvos campaign that will unite camp throughout the year was introduced with many prizes promised for those who participate. Songs were sang for a while until the buses pulled up. Souvenir journals were distributed, so everyone tried to get autographs from all their staff members. But soon the time arrived to board the buses and say goodbye to camp. Many tears were shed, however we all hugged and didnt say goodbye because we all know we will be together again next year in CGI - Lubavitch City!

Goodbye Gan Yisroel Lubavitch City 5767!

Past news archives: Boys News 5766 | Boys News 5764 | Color War 5764 | Color War 5763