It’s a gloomy Friday morning at camp (yes, I’m still here!) and I just finished updating our 2021 registration form, which will go “live” this Monday at 9 am. Thinking about opening Camp Young Judaea for Summer 2021, I’m filled with anticipation, excitement and happiness. And if I’m being honest, I’m also filled with a little bit of trepidation, uncertainty and worry…

Today in honor of Itzy’s birthday, we asked him to share a few words:

I’ve been blessed to be part of this CYJ experience since I was 11 years old. Today, I hit a milestone birthday (50!), and I want you to know that I still get that sensation when I turn on Camp Road as I’m about to approach CYJ, so that feeling never goes away!

It was the final banquet of the 2018 season. The meal was wrapping up and it was utter chaos…kids snapping pictures of their tablemates, costumed waiters scurrying around, lots of laughter and discussion…

My summer office at CYJ looks out over our beautiful pool. During the summer, I can hear counselors teaching swim classes. I can see the Nurses’ golf cart go by, notice counselors coming up to enjoy a free period, see campers and staff working out in the Old Dining Hall (ODH) and watch as future campers and their families start their journey into camp on a tour. I love seeing campers heading to and from “North Camp” towards Tennis and Archery. Lots of time I am tempted to sneak out and join in the fun (and I do)!