New Lessons at JCC Princeton Mercer Bucks Connect Community, Tradition, and Play Mah Jongg, a game with deep cultural roots and a devoted following, is experiencing a resurgence across the country. Here in Mercer County, that renewed interest is now finding a home at JCC Princeton Mercer Bucks & Abrams Camps , where new Mah Jongg lessons are bringing players together through strategy, social connection, and a shared love of learning. Launched in late 2025 and continuing into early 2026, the JCC’s Mah Jongg lessons were introduced in response to growing community interest. The first two sessions filled quickly and were met with enthusiastic feedback, signaling that this classic game still holds strong appeal for players of all ages. Why Learn Mah Jongg? More than just a game, Mah Jongg offers meaningful benefits for both the mind and the community. Learning Mah Jongg helps sharpen memory, improve pattern recognition, and encourage strategic thinking. Just as importantly, it creates space for social connection, conversation, and routine. For many players, Mah Jongg becomes a weekly anchor. A reason to get out of the house, meet new people, and be part of a welcoming group. In a time when genuine connection can be hard to find, sitting down at a table and learning together has real value. A Welcoming Place to Start At the JCC, Mah Jongg lessons are intentionally designed to be accessible and low-pressure. Classes are led by Wendy Miller of Mah Jongg Lessons With Wendy who is an experienced instructor known for her clear explanations and encouraging teaching style. Lessons focus on: The fundamentals of American Mah Jongg Understanding and using the annual Mah Jongg card Game flow, rules, and basic strategy Building confidence to play independently and socially No prior experience is needed, making the program a strong entry point for beginners as well as those who have always wanted to learn but never quite knew where to start. Local, Flexible, and Growing Mah Jongg lessons are held at the JCC’s East Windsor campus and are offered as multi-week sessions. Dates vary from month to month to accommodate different schedules, and new sessions are added regularly. Interest has been strong, and space is limited, so participants are encouraged to check back often for upcoming dates. As the program grows, the JCC hopes to continue expanding opportunities for both learning and open play. Supporting the JCC Through Mah Jongg Mah Jongg players across the country rely on the official annual card from the National Mah Jongg League. Purchasing that card through JCC Princeton Mercer Bucks & Abrams Camps is a simple way to support local programming. The best part is that support is not limited by geography. Whether you live in Mercer County, spend winters elsewhere, or are cheering us on from afar, your purchase makes an impact. Florida snowbirds included. Cards are shipped directly to your home by the National Mah Jongg League , with no in-person pickup required. It is an easy way to give back while participating in a game you already love. How to Get Involved Those interested in learning Mah Jongg can register directly with the instructor. For lesson information and registration, contact Wendy Miller at: wendymahjongglessons@gmail.com To support the JCC and purchase the current Mah Jongg card, visit: givebutter.com/jmahj As Mah Jongg continues its comeback, JCC Princeton Mercer Bucks & Abrams Camps is proud to offer a place where tradition, learning, and community come together. New lesson dates will continue to be announced throughout late 2025 and early 2026, welcoming both new and returning players to the table.

What families should know before choosing a camp and why one program continues to stand out. Each summer, thousands of Mercer County families face the same big decision: where should their child spend the most meaningful weeks of the year? Mercer County is home to a wide range of excellent summer camps, each offering something different, from sports-focused programs to traditional day camps and specialty experiences. To help families navigate their options, we took a closer look at several of the most well-known camps in the area, what they do well, and what truly sets a great camp apart. What Makes a Great Summer Camp? Before diving into specific programs, it helps to understand what parents consistently look for when choosing a camp: A strong sense of community and belonging Experienced, well-trained staff who truly know the campers A balance of fun, structure, and personal growth Meaningful activities that go beyond simply filling the day A philosophy rooted in values, not gimmicks With those criteria in mind, here is a look at some of the top camps families consider in Mercer County. Top Summer Camps in Mercer County, NJ JCC Abrams Camps JCC Abrams Camps offers a classic, relationship-driven day camp experience rooted in community, care, and tradition since 1960. Campers spend their days active and outdoors, with a balanced mix of swimming, athletics, creative arts, nature, and camp traditions that have been passed down for generations. The camp is intentionally designed to build confidence, independence, and lasting friendships through play, challenge, and connection rather than constant stimulation. Best for:  Families looking for a true summer camp experience grounded in tradition, where children grow in confidence, are known by name, and experience a classic childhood summer that values connection, balance, and belonging over scale or spectacle. YMCA of Princeton Mercer Bucks The YMCA offers a dependable, activity-filled camp experience with a strong emphasis on fitness, teamwork, and accessibility. Families appreciate the wide range of programming and the organization’s long-standing presence in the community. YMCA camps are a solid option for parents looking for a structured, sports-forward environment. Best for:   Families looking for a traditional rec camp with a lot of structured activities, some indoor time, and a familiar community center setting. Camp Fire Central New Jersey Camp Fire focuses on leadership development and outdoor exploration, offering campers opportunities to build independence and confidence. Their mission-driven approach and emphasis on youth development resonate with families looking for character-building experiences. Best for:  Families seeking a nationally run, mission-driven youth program with an emphasis on accessibility, structured skill-building, and community partnerships. Princeton Friends School Summer Programs School-based summer programs like Princeton Friends School provide a quieter, academically influenced environment with enrichment-style activities. These programs often appeal to families looking for smaller group sizes and a familiar school setting. Best for:  Families who prefer a school-like summer environment with enrichment activities, structured schedules, and more time spent indoors. Frogbridge Day Camp Frogbridge Day Camp is a very large, premium day camp known for its massive campus, resort-style amenities, and highly produced programming. The experience is built around constant activity, big spectacles, and a tightly scheduled day designed to keep a large camper population moving across many facilities. Frogbridge places a strong emphasis on scale, polish, and amenities, creating a summer that can feel more like an entertainment destination than a traditional camp. Best for:  Families looking for a highly produced, amenity-driven camp with a fast-paced schedule, large groups, significant daily stimulation, and a premium price point. While Mercer County offers many strong options, one camp consistently rises to the top for families seeking more than just a summer schedule. Why  JCC Abrams Camps Continues to Stand Out JCC Abrams Camps is designed for families looking for something different from a typical rec or school-based program. Abrams offers a true day camp experience where campers spend most of their day outdoors, moving, exploring, and connecting. Days are unplugged, active, and intentionally balanced with swimming, athletics, creative arts, nature, and free play. Rooted in tradition since 1960, the camp focuses on building confidence, independence, and belonging. Counselors know each camper well, friendships form quickly, and the camp community becomes a second home rather than just a place to spend the day. Parents often say the difference is felt within the first week. Campers come home more confident, more independent, and already talking about “their people” at camp. This is the camp parents often describe as “what summer used to feel like.” Convenient Bus Stops Serving Mercer County and Lower Bucks County JCC Abrams Camps offers FREE transportation with multiple bus stops throughout Mercer County and nearby Lower Bucks County communities. Bus routes are reviewed each year and may change based on enrollment and demand to best serve our camp families. The locations listed below reflect recent and commonly used bus stops  and are provided to give families a general sense of the areas we serve. Specific stops, times, and routes are confirmed prior to each camp season. Recent and Commonly Used Bus Stop Areas Yardley Park and Ride - Serving Yardley, Lower Makefield, Newtown, Langhorne, Morrisville, and surrounding Lower Bucks County communities Lawrenceville area - Serving Lawrenceville, Pennington, Ewing, Hopewell, and nearby towns Hopewell area - Serving Hopewell Township, Pennington, Lambertville, and surrounding communities Robbinsville and Hamilton area - Serving Robbinsville, Hamilton, Allentown, and Upper Freehold West Windsor and East Windsor area - Serving West Windsor, East Windsor, Hightstown, and Plainsboro Princeton area - Serving Princeton, Princeton Junction, Kingston, and Rocky Hill Cranbury area - Serving Cranbury, South Brunswick, Monroe, and nearby towns On-campus drop-off and pick-up Available at JCC Abrams Camps in East Windsor The Bottom Line for Families Mercer County is fortunate to have many quality summer camp options, and the best camp ultimately depends on what a family values most. For parents seeking a place where their child is known, challenged, and genuinely cared for, where summer memories turn into lifelong connections, JCC Abrams Camps continues to set the standard. Families interested in learning more are encouraged to fill out an interest form , schedule a private tour or schedule a camp chat via zoom with our team. These conversations are informal, no-pressure, and simply an opportunity to ask questions, and see if JCC Abrams Camps feels like the right fit for your family. Frequently Asked Questions About Summer Camps in Mercer County, NJ What are the top summer day camps in Mercer County, NJ? Families in Mercer County often compare a range of summer day camp options, including traditional day camps, rec camps, and school-based summer programs. The best choice depends on a child’s age, interests, family schedule, and the type of summer experience parents are looking for. What is the difference between a rec camp and a traditional day camp? Rec camps are typically more program-based and may include more indoor time, structured activities, or sports-focused schedules. Traditional day camps usually offer a broader mix of outdoor activities, camp traditions, swimming, and opportunities for social growth and community building throughout the day. Do summer camps in Mercer County offer bus transportation? Some summer camps in Mercer County offer transportation options such as bus service or centralized bus stops. Transportation routes and stops may change from year to year based on enrollment and demand, so families should confirm available options for the upcoming summer. Are there summer camps that serve Lower Bucks County families? Yes. Some Mercer County day camps also serve families from nearby Lower Bucks County communities through designated bus stops or convenient drop-off options, depending on demand and enrollment. How can families learn more before committing to a camp? Many camps offer no-pressure options such as private tours or informal camp chats. These are a great way for families to ask questions, learn about daily schedules and transportation, and decide whether a camp feels like the right fit for their child.

Missing camp already? Same. That’s why we’re launching Camp-to-Go , a mini menu of camp-inspired, screen-free activities you can do right at home. Each idea below is quick to set up, easy to repeat, and kid-approved. Try one (or all four), snap a pic, and tag us  so we can cheer on your living-room Gaga champions, bracelet designers, dancers, and tiny chefs. Super Sour Lollipops (Cooking Sara Style) At camp, cooking is never just cooking. It’s a little science, a little confidence, and a lot of “wait, I made that?!” These super sour lollipops  are inspired by “Acid Pops,” but at camp your kids may recognize them from Cooking with Sara  more than anything else! Time:  15 minutes + drying time Best for:  Ages 6+ with adult supervision You’ll need: 24 lollipops (round work best) Honey or  light corn syrup Granulated sugar Citric acid (optional, makes it sour) An empty egg carton (as a drying rack) 2 small bowls How to Make Them Make a drying rack:  poke holes in an egg carton so lollipop sticks can stand upright.  Set up bowls: Bowl 1: honey (or corn syrup)  Bowl 2: sugar + a little citric acid (start small, you can always add more)  Dip:  unwrap a lollipop, dip it in honey, scrape off extra.  Roll:  roll in the sugar mixture until coated.  Dry:  stand it in the egg carton. Second coat (optional):  after about 15 minutes, roll again for extra “crystal” look.  Let dry  about an hour, then enjoy.  Important notes (quick but helpful) Honey note:  Honey is not recommended for children under 1 year old. Citric acid is food-grade, but avoid inhaling the powder and wash hands after mixing. If your child is sensitive to sour candy, skip the citric acid and do sugar only.

Missing camp already? Same. That’s why we’re launching Camp-to-Go , a mini menu of camp-inspired, screen-free activities you can do right at home. Each idea below is quick to set up, easy to repeat, and kid-approved. Try one (or all four), snap a pic, and tag us  so we can cheer on your living-room Gaga champions, bracelet designers, dancers, and tiny chefs.  Campership Bracelets At camp, so much of what kids take home is not a thing. It’s a value. A moment. A feeling. These bracelets are a fun way to make that “camp feeling” wearable. The photo below shows bracelet words like Adventure, Belonging, Respect, Accountability, Mitzvot,  and Spirit . These are our core campership values that we spend all summer working on! You can make those, or pick words that match your child’s personal camp experience. Time:  20–45 minutes Best for:  Ages 6+ (with help for tying) You’ll need: Stretch bracelet cord (elastic) Letter beads (for words) Pony beads, clay beads, or any beads you have Scissors Tape (helpful for keeping beads from escaping) Optional: a dab of clear-drying glue on the knot How to Make Them Pick your word(s).  Choose one camp value per bracelet (or your camper’s favorite camp word). Plan the layout.  Lay the letter beads in order so spelling is right before you string. Cut cord  long enough to fit your child’s wrist, plus a few extra inches for tying. Tape one end  of the cord to the table (or clip it) so beads don’t slide off. String beads  in this order: A few decorative beads Your letter beads (the word) More decorative beads to finish Try it on  before tying. Adjust if it’s too tight or too loose. Tie a secure knot  (double knot, then a third knot if needed). Optional:  Add a tiny dab of glue on the knot and let it dry. Make it feel extra “campy” Do a bracelet swap  at home: everyone makes one, then trade. Add a “story bead”: one bead that represents a camp moment (blue for swim, green for Gaga, gold for Color War). Missing letters? Use a shortcut: ADV  (Adventure) BRV  (Brave) BFF  (Friendship) RUACH  (Spirit)

Missing camp already? Same. That’s why we’re launching Camp-to-Go , a mini menu of camp-inspired, screen-free activities you can do right at home. Each idea below is quick to set up, easy to repeat, and kid-approved. Try one (or all four), snap a pic, and tag us  so we can cheer on your living-room Gaga champions, bracelet designers, dancers, and tiny chefs. Living Room Gaga If your kid has ever come home talking about Gaga, this is the one. You do not need a Gaga pit to get the energy. All you need is a “boundary,” a soft ball, and a little room to move. Time:  10–20 minutes Best for:  Ages 5+ (adjust rules for younger kids) You’ll need: Painter’s tape (or pillows / couch edge as a boundary) A soft  ball (foam or playground ball) Optional: a timer Watch the video:   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FhYcTY4je4I   Setup Tape a big circle on the floor (or make a rectangle if space is tight). Everyone starts inside the boundary. How to Play Start position:  Everyone begins with one hand touching the boundary  (a wall, couch, or the taped line). Serve:  Toss the ball into the middle. On the first two bounces, everyone chants “Ga, Ga”  and on the third bounce it’s “Ga!”  Then play starts.  Hit only:  Players hit the ball  with their hand(s). No holding, throwing, or carrying.  Get out:  If the ball hits you at or below the knee , you’re out for that round and step outside the boundary.  Win:  Last player standing wins (or call it a tie when you run out of breath). Make it safer indoors Use a foam ball or rolled socks. Add a “no high hits” rule: the ball must stay low. If you have mixed ages, let younger kids re-enter after 30 second Camp-style variations Coach’s Choice:  Winner gets to pick the next rule (one round only). Freeze Gaga:  When a grown-up says “freeze,” everyone stops for 3 seconds, then play resumes. Team Gaga:  Pair up and try to protect your teammate.

There is an old adage that says, “If you need something done, ask a busy person.” Florence Lipstein is certainly that person. As she celebrates her 100th birthday on December 19, her talents, skills, and compassion are evident in everything she has so generously undertaken. A native of New Jersey, Florence grew up in the Summit area and completed her nursing education at Newark Beth Israel Hospital School of Nursing. She remained in Newark after marrying a “local boy,” Martin Lipstein. When the first of their two sons was born, Florence left her position as Head Nurse in the Newborn Nursery. Her career in organizational work began around this time, when she joined B’nai B’rith Women, Weequahic (Newark) Chapter. She held thirteen different positions before becoming chapter president. When she and her family moved to Woodbridge in 1956, Florence helped charter a new B’nai B’rith chapter there and became a Board member of the Central NJ Council. Fortunately for us, the Lipstein family moved to Ewing Township in 1969. They joined Adath Israel Congregation immediately, and Flo volunteered to be the synagogue’s official photographer. This was followed by her serving as Treasurer of the Sisterhood for sixteen years; being named Woman of the Year in 1986; Honoree of the Torah Fund Luncheon in 1988; Memorial Booklet Chair for twenty-one years; Treasurer of the Board of Adath Israel; and an enthusiastic participant in adult education classes, which led to her becoming a Bat Mitzvah on her 62nd birthday. In the greater Ewing area, Flo joined Club D and the PC Club at Hollowbrook; became a Life Member of Women for Greenwood House; a Life Member of Jewish Family Service; and a Life Member of Hadassah. She received a Volunteer Award from JFCS, was appointed to the Board of the JCC, joined the Advisory Board of the Mercer County Legal Services Project for the Elderly, and volunteered computer services for the Tinnitus Self-Help Group. Living in Ewing also meant joining the JCC and, in 1986, the Golden Age Club. She became Publicity Chair and a Board Member of the Golden Age Club, participated in George’s classes and trips to Europe, taught Bridge on Mondays, led exercise classes, and later served as President of the Golden Age Club from 2007–2012. Although Flo has moved to Meadow Lakes, she remains a steady and involved member of the Golden Age Club and its Executive Board. Her move to Meadow Lakes has allowed her to resume master gardening; exhibit her award-winning photography; teach computer skills to fellow residents; teach crochet and knitting; serve on the Steering Committee; chair the New Friends Committee; appear in drama productions; and serve as Parliamentarian for The Forum (the Meadow Lakes Residents’ Association). Thank you, Flo, for all you have done and all you continue to do!

This week we are giving thanks for the ability to make the world a better place. At camp, giving back happens all summer long. Mitzvah Mondays set the tone each week, and generosity continues through service projects, everyday acts of kindness, and moments of guidance and support. Mitzvot are among our most important values, and they guide the heart of our community. This past summer our campers helped nearby and far beyond. They packed snacks and water for East Windsor Fire Department, brought in new toys for kids with RISE, and stocked baby supplies for HomeFront in Lawrenceville. They saved can tabs for Ronald McDonald House, gathered gently used shoes for Soles4Souls, and filled backpacks with JFCS so classmates could start strong. Our Teen Travel group also spent time with local seniors...games, stories, and a lot of smiles. Tzedakah wars across camp fueled our JCC Scholarship Big Give, and painted Kindness Rocks represented everything we worked so hard to accomplish. Thank you to everyone who went out of their way to shop and collect donations for these important causes. What organizations, charities, or causes would you like to see us support this summer? Comment below with your suggestions, or send us a dm on social. PS - Start saving those can tabs now! Let's see if we can double our donation next summer.

This week, our hearts are overflowing with gratitude for the incredible people who form the heart of camp . They are the dedicated helpers and mentors who create the magic, the moments, and the memories that define a JCC Abrams Camps summer. We are talking about every single member of our staff family: our amazing counselors, specialists, nurses, lifeguards, madrichim, bus drivers, leadership, and support staff. They are the ones on the ground, making "brave tries" possible every single day. They greet with a smile, coach with enthusiasm, cheer the loudest, and care deeply so that every camper can feel safe to connect, smile, and grow. Shining Stars: Our Guest Experts This past summer, we were privileged to host an outstanding roster of guest experts who truly lit up the grounds and broadened our campers' horizons! Their passion and expertise introduced new skills, boosted confidence, and fostered essential values like grit and discipline. Guest Expert Contribution Key Skill/Value Steve Garrison  (Former NY Yankee) Pitching clinic and inspirational talk Confidence  on and off the mound Rachel Siegel  (Acoustix Music Studio) Joyful music classes for our youngest Creativity  and connection through song Coach Crehan  (Hoops Academy) Basketball skills clinics Turning effort  into progress Bryce “The Precise Ninja” Ninja warrior training and obstacle course Focus  and grit Leslie  (Four Peas and a Dog) Creative cookie decorating masterclass Hands-on creativity  and fun David Kahn  (Krav Maga) Self-defense and discipline instruction Discipline  and self-confidence That sounds like a wonderful message! Here is the content transformed into a blog post format, ready to share: ❤️ The Heart of Camp: Celebrating Our Brave-Making Team This week, our hearts are overflowing with gratitude for the incredible people who form the heart of camp . They are the dedicated helpers and mentors who create the magic, the moments, and the memories that define a JCC Abrams Camps summer. We are talking about every single member of our staff family: our amazing counselors, specialists, nurses, lifeguards, madrichim, bus drivers, leadership, and support staff. They are the ones on the ground, making "brave tries" possible every single day. They greet with a smile, coach with enthusiasm, cheer the loudest, and care deeply so that every camper can feel safe to connect, smile, and grow. Shining Stars: Our Guest Experts This past summer, we were privileged to host an outstanding roster of guest experts who truly lit up the grounds and broadened our campers' horizons! Their passion and expertise introduced new skills, boosted confidence, and fostered essential values like grit and discipline. Guest Expert Contribution Key Skill/Value Steve Garrison  (Former NY Yankee) Pitching clinic and inspirational talk Confidence  on and off the mound Rachel Siegel  (Acoustix Music Studio) Joyful music classes for our youngest Creativity  and connection through song Coach Crehan  (Hoops Academy) Basketball skills clinics Turning effort  into progress Bryce “The Precise Ninja” Ninja warrior training and obstacle course Focus  and grit Leslie  (Four Peas and a Dog) Creative cookie decorating masterclass Hands-on creativity  and fun David Kahn  (Krav Maga) Self-defense and discipline instruction Discipline  and self-confidence Your Voice: Share the Gratitude and the Vision! The people behind the moments are what make camp so special. We want to hear from you! Who Helped Your Camper Grow? Was there a counselor who went the extra mile? A specialist who unlocked a new passion? A bus driver who always made the ride fun? Comment and we'll be sure to pass along your heartfelt gratitude and thanks directly to them. Who Do You Want to See Next Year? We are already planning for an even more amazing summer in 2026! What kind of celebrity or expert would you like to see inspire our campers next? Celebrity chefs teaching a culinary masterclass? Competitive swimmers sharing Olympic-level tips? A renowned tennis pro running drills? Other ideas? Comment with your thoughts and suggestions! Let’s hear it one more time for the people behind the moments that make JCC Abrams Camps a truly unforgettable place!

At the age of nine, my father’s sudden death changed me from being a “rotten kid” to a “goody two shoes”! I was an only child born to Holocaust survivors. I never knew my grandparents or extended family. I was raised in a house purchased from the Segal family of Hamilton Jewelers. My father was an ordained Shamash known as Reverend Michael Traugut; and he worked in Adath Israel on Bellevue Avenue until his passing in 1961. He had one of the biggest funerals in Trenton because he was adored and revered by so many people. He was always there for everyone; and he lived by the adage, “Where there is life, there is hope.” I had an Orthodox upbringing and spoke fluent Yiddish. My father treated me like a “princess” and drove me back and forth to school four times a day. Perhaps he was so close to me because I replaced his two-year-old and four-year-old daughters killed in the Holocaust. My mother, Celina, sheltered me and probably contributed to my being spoiled and a “rotten kid" in kindergarten where I received the worst report card ever! I threw tantrums and refused to go to school. When I went into a rage and vomited on the teacher, the principal exclaimed, “Rev. Traugut, take your child out of my school, and I never want to see her again!” He had to put me in a private Hebrew school. Unfortunately, my father never lived to get “nachas” from me. After his death, I had to be the “best” student and become my mother’s “best” future. In 5725 (1965), I won Adath’s Sadye Lewis Essay Award (engraved golden candle holders), I still display proudly. I continued Hebrew school in Adath but never had a “bat mitzvah” or “confirmation”. I had to grow up quickly, and by the time I was in high school, I was negotiating the sale of our house. With merit scholarships, I went on to college to major in English Education and Library Science; I graduated “magna cum laude”. I had various positions: ASSISTANT FINANCE DIRECTOR; ASSISTANT MANAGER, DOCTOR’S OFFICE; AUTHOR; ENGLISH TEACHER; JEWELRY STORE OWNER; LIBRARIAN. I went through suitors of quantity, but not quality. One became a “pest” in pursuing me even after he moved to Florida with his family. After Robert convinced me, we belonged together because he too lost his father at an early age, I answered his question of “Will you marry me?” with the response, “Oh, Okay!” As a dutiful child, I moved my mother, aunt, and uncle to Florida. Who does such a stupid thing? There was so much friction with the families that we had to move back to be a plane distance away. I joke that I did my retirement to Florida in my twenties! I reside in Pennsylvania and have a son, daughter, and five grandchildren. I think my husband and I did a good job raising our children who are educated adults who stayed with their “raised” religions. They married educated professionals of opposite genders of the same races and religions. What more could parents ask for? I now write children’s books based on true events that are funny and didactic. I present my published MICKEY HAS HIS UP AND DOWNS to elementary schools in New Jersey and Pennsylvania. I’m accompanied by the illustrator, my daughter; and my son, a Disney Radio personality who presents a musical reading program. The recent passing of my husband (June) after forty-seven years of marriage has brought me back to Adath. As I navigate being a “turtle”, my hard shell in public and my inner soft elements falling apart in private, I look forward to meeting all my new friends in Golden Age. (A special “shout out” to Marilyn Holtzman for enticing me to join Golden Age.) https://www.sarahtraugutgordon.com/

We are incredibly proud of Team JCC PMB and all they accomplished! A special shoutout goes to our Junior Soccer Team, who took home the silver medal after an incredible day of competition. Across all events, our athletes gave it their all, supported one another, and represented our community with pride. On Sunday, 779 athletes from 17 JCCs across the Mid-Atlantic region gathered at the Katz JCC in Cherry Hill, NJ, for a day of spirited competition, teamwork, and Jewish pride. Representing 120 teams across multiple sports, the 2025 Mid-Atlantic Mini & Junior Maccabi Games were truly a celebration of community and athletic excellence. Despite the rain, nothing could dampen the energy and enthusiasm of the day — not even a few soaked sneakers! The weather may have been unpredictable, but our athletes brought sunshine with their positive attitudes, resilience, and sportsmanship. In honor of the event taking place on May 4th, the entire day was Star Wars themed with plenty of "May the 4th be with you" energy to keep spirits high. The Maccabi Games are more than just a one-day tournament — they’re a chance for Jewish youth to connect, grow, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Whether this was your athlete’s first time or they’re already planning for next year, we are so proud of every member of Team JCC PMB. Interested in joining next year’s team? Click here to learn more and get involved.

This Sunday, some of our youngest and most passionate athletes will represent JCC of Princeton Mercer Bucks at the Mid-Atlantic Mini & Junior Maccabi Games —a one-day tournament bringing together nearly 700 Jewish athletes from 20 JCCs across the region. Open to athletes ages 9–12, this event is more than just a competition; it’s a celebration of teamwork, sportsmanship, Jewish pride, and community. We’re incredibly proud to be sending competitors in soccer, basketball, pickleball, and swimming . These talented athletes have trained hard, supported each other, and shown dedication and spirit throughout their journey to the Games. Whether they’re scoring goals, making baskets, rallying on the court, or powering through the pool, our athletes embody everything we value— confidence, perseverance, and connection to something greater than themselves . To our JCC PMB athletes: Play hard, support each other, and take in every moment. We’re behind you all the way and can’t wait to cheer you on! Let’s go, Team JCC PMB! 💙🏆

Introducing Abrams Extra! VIP Photo Access — Your Favorite Faces, Found Fast We’re excited to announce a brand new way to enjoy all the amazing memories from camp: Abrams Extra! VIP Photo Access  — featuring our new facial recognition technology! With VIP Photo Access, finding your camper in our daily photo galleries has never been easier. Here’s what’s included: Personalized Alerts : Get notified whenever your child appears in a photo. Easy Search : Instantly search for pictures of your child at any time. Family Sharing : Share access with family members and give them their own account, right from your parent dashboard. This is the ultimate way to stay connected to your camper's adventures — no more scrolling through hundreds of photos! Cost: $20 per child $50 for the whole family Good news: All families will still have access to our full photo gallery! Without VIP access, though, you’ll need to browse the full collection to spot your favorite faces. Ready to make the most of camp memories? Upgrade to Abrams Extra! VIP Photo Access today in the Parent Dashboard.