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.

See What’s Coming to JCC Abrams Camps Our biggest countdown of the year starts now! The Summer 2025 Camp Calendar  is officially here, and it’s packed with daily themes, special events, and traditions that make every day at JCC Abrams Camps full of excitement and memories. Every week is built around a unique theme, with activities that bring our camp community together and make each day one to remember. Whether your camper loves dress-up days, challenges, or celebrations, there’s something fun waiting every single day. Here’s a sneak peek of what’s in store: 🎆 Party in the USA  to kick off Week 1 with red, white, and blue fun, Rocket Pop Day, and Wacky Stars & Stripes! ☃️ Winter Wonderland Week  — Spectacular "snow" tubing, Wacky Winter Wear Day, a snowball fight, and a Winter Wonderland Party. Who says you can’t enjoy winter in July? 🤠 Wild West Week  — Gold Rush Scavenger Hunt, Wacky Western Wear, and the legendary JCC Abrams Derby Day! 🚢 Terrific Travel Week  — Our 10th Annual Cardboard Boat Race, Wacky Tacky Tourist Day, and Around the World Trivia will have campers traveling the globe without leaving camp. 🧼 Bubble Blast Week  — Counselor Car Wash, Wacky Bubble Wear, and a full-blown Bubble Foam Party to cap it all off! 🎭 Rooted in Tradition Week  — Spirit days like Wacky JCC Wear, Gaga Games Galore, and Beat the Abrams Record challenge! 🎸 JCC Rocks Week  — Get ready for epic fun with Battle of the Bands, Rock the Red Carpet, and the camp favorite, Let’s Move Championship! 🎡 And of course, our Annual End of Summer Carnival  wraps up the season with games, treats, and memories to last a lifetime. Plus, campers will participate in weekly mitzvah projects supporting local charities like the East Windsor Fire Department, RISE, HomeFront, JFCS, and more, teaching the importance of giving back while having fun. Why Check the Calendar? This is your family’s guide to all the excitement coming this summer! Hang it on the fridge, mark down your camper’s favorite days, and start planning outfits and excitement together. There’s something to look forward to every day, and our calendar helps you celebrate alongside your camper all summer long. View the Full Calendar Now! Check out our full Summer 2025 Camp Calendar and get ready for the best summer ever: Camp Calendars We can’t wait to celebrate each moment with you. Summer 2025 is going to rock!

Open and Free for All! Online. Get ready for our JCC March Madness Basketball Bracket Challenge! There's no entry fee, and the ultimate winner will win a camp swag package! Whether you're a camper, sibling, staff member, parent, grandparent, alumni, or friend of the JCC, everyone’s invited to join the fun. Enter as a team or fly solo...it's all about the thrill of the game and the chance to earn those bragging rights this summer. Who will reign supreme on the court? 1️⃣ Join the Pool – Click the link below to join our JCCABRAMS bracket challenge on CBSSports.com . 2️⃣ Enter the Password – Use CAMP2025 to gain access. 3️⃣ Fill Out Your Bracket – Predict the winners for each round before the tournament begins. 4️⃣ Compete & Have Fun – Watch the games, track your picks, and see how you stack up against others in the community! No experience needed—just pick your teams and enjoy the fun! 🏆 Let us know if you have any questions, and may the best bracket win! 🎉 For the 2025 tournament, Selection Sunday is on March 16, when the participating teams and matchups are announced. The tournament officially starts with the First Four games on March 18-19, followed by the First Round beginning on March 20.  JOIN TEAM JCC ABRAMS You're invited to the NCAA® March Madness® Bracket Challenge. Pool Name: JCCABRAMS Group Password: CAMP2025 Get In The Game Want to learn more about how all of this "madness" works? Check out this PDF.  Brackets Open Sunday, March 16th  after the NCAA® Selection Show Brackets Lock Thursday, March 20TH at 12PM ET

Summer is quickly approaching, and we are thrilled to share that JCC Abrams Camps is almost at full capacity. If you have been considering joining us this season, now is the perfect time to secure one of the remaining spots. Why Register Now Unforgettable Adventures - Unique outdoor activities, creative workshops, and new friendships await every camper. Supportive Community - Our dedicated staff and welcoming atmosphere make campers feel confident and inspired each day. Personal Growth - Camp is a place to learn, explore, and discover new passions in a safe, encouraging environment. Flexible Scheduling: We understand that every family’s summer schedule is unique. That’s why we offer a four-week minimum enrollment, and you can choose non-consecutive weeks that best fit your calendar. This flexibility ensures your child gets the most out of their camp experience without compromising your other summer commitments. Convenient Logistics: We strive to make camp as hassle-free as possible for busy families. Transportation is provided by buses, and lunch is included in the camp fees, offering both convenience and value. Save Your Spot : Spots are limited, so visit our registration page or fill out our interest form below. We are here to answer any questions and guide you through the registration process. We can’t wait to welcome you for a memorable summer at JCC Abrams Camps. Register now to secure your spot and get ready for an incredible season filled with fun, learning, and lifelong memories!

Every day at JCC Abrams Camps is filled with adventure, creativity, and unforgettable moments. From the first "Boker Tov" to the last high-five at pickup, campers experience a full day of excitement, personal growth, and connection with friends. Here's a look at what a typical day might look like! 9:00 AM – Morning Arrival & Boker Tov Campers gather at the bunk benches, ready to kick off the day with energy and enthusiasm. Each morning begins with the Pledge of Allegiance, singing the Hatikvah, and learning the Hebrew Word of the Day. We also introduce the Campership Value of the Week, reinforcing important lessons in teamwork, respect, and kindness. There’s nothing better than starting the day surrounded by friends, feeling the energy and spirit of camp! Instructional Swim – Building Water Confidence Swimming is a key part of the JCC Abrams Camps experience. Our Instructional Swim sessions focus on developing water confidence and essential safety skills for all levels. Whether campers are beginners or advanced swimmers, our experienced instructors provide personalized coaching to help them improve technique and feel comfortable in the water. Morning Snack – Time to Recharge After an active start, campers take a break to enjoy a healthy morning snack. This is a great time to relax, share laughs with friends, and get ready for the exciting activities ahead. Activity Rotations – Adventure, Sports, and Creativity Campers rotate through a variety of engaging activities, designed to challenge, excite, and inspire. 🏅 Sports:  Soccer, tennis, baseball, basketball, hockey, pickleball, volleyball, flag football, and gaga. ⛰️ Adventure:  Rock wall, archery, ninja course, giant swing, and low ropes. 🎭 Creative Arts:  Music, dance, drama, cooking, makerspace, teva (science & nature), and arts & crafts. No matter the activity, campers are encouraged to try new things, develop new skills, and, most importantly, have fun! Lunch – A Midday Refuel with Friends Campers enjoy a kid-friendly, nutritious meal in our shaded picnic grove with their bunkmates. Lunch isn’t just about eating—it’s a time for bonding, sharing stories, and making some of the best camp memories. Plus, it’s included in tuition! Free Swim – Splash Into Fun! After lunch, it’s time to cool off in the pool. Free Swim is all about having fun in the water, playing games, and practicing swim skills in a supervised, safe environment. With trained lifeguards always on duty and separate swim areas for different skill levels, everyone can enjoy their time in the pool. Cannonball! Electives & Imaginary Play – Camper’s Choice! 🛝 For Younger Campers:  The afternoon is filled with imaginative play at the playground, storytelling, or creative fun in the mud kitchen and play village. 🎨 For Older Campers:  Electives allow campers to explore their personal interests and dive deeper into activities they love. Whether it’s advanced sports, arts, games, or outdoor challenges, electives give campers the chance to tailor their camp experience to their passions. Sweet Treat – A Refreshing End to the Day Before the day winds down, campers enjoy a special sweet treat...every single day. It’s the perfect way to cool off and reflect on another amazing camp experience. 4:00 PM – End of Day & Pickup As the day comes to a close, campers gather at their designated spots for parent pickup, bus departure, or aftercare. With smiles on their faces and stories to share, they head home excited for another day of adventure at JCC Abrams Camps! At JCC Abrams Camps, every day is designed to be the best day ever . Whether campers are exploring the outdoors, learning new skills, or making lifelong friendships, each moment is packed with excitement, discovery, and joy. We can’t wait for another summer filled with laughter, growth, and unforgettable memories. Ready to join the fun? Register today and experience a summer like no other!