Summer 2026 is shaping up to be as terrific as we’ve all come to expect. Enrollment is strong, staff are chomping at the bit to make this the best summer yet, and our year-round team has been killing it behind the scenes [cue chants of “ROCK CLUB” and banging on tables]. Across Airy & Louise, we’re tracking OVER 200 camper weeks ahead of where we were this time last year, a real testament to the strength of both camps! 

We couldn’t do this without the support of Leaf. Wherever you are in life, we’re sure you find Camp connections along the way. As you do, please take a moment to see if they’re involved in Leaf already, or have kids that are camp age, or if they want to return to be on staff. All these connections add to the vibrance of our community that we all love. A word from a Leaf member goes a long way. 

A couple dates to be aware of:

 

Camper In Training Day (Sunday, July 12) - A wonderful way for prospective campers and families to see Airy in action and have all their burning questions answered.  

Order of the Leaf Reunion Weekend (October 2-4) - Spend time with Leaf members across generations. Truly amazing to see how large reunion has grown over the years. Mark your calendars now so you don’t miss out on all the fun. 

Can’t wait to see what this summer brings! 

Zac & Scott 

Fall Back...Into Leaf! 

You have to wait just a little bit longer for Leaf Weekend this year, but don't worry- not too long.  October 2nd-4th, 2026 is when Leaf Weekend is set for this year.  As the leaves begin to change colors, we will welcome you to the mountains of Western Maryland when camp may just be the most beautiful.  Just because it's later doesn't mean much is changing.  

Leaf Weekend is the perfect opportunity to escape the daily grind and spend a few days surrounded by the people, traditions, and memories that have stood the test of time. The camp will be alive with activity all weekend long, offering something for everyone. 

Looking to stay active? You'll have plenty of chances to serve up some fun on the pickleball courts, shoot hoops and compete in a variety of sports throughout the weekend. Prefer a slower pace? Grab a glass at our popular wine tasting, take a scenic guided history tour around camp, enjoy thought-provoking speakers, or simply relax and catch up with old friends.  We will also be bringing back some old favorites like the home run derby! We will even have a few "Fall" surprises.  

As the sun sets behind the mountains, the fun doesn't stop. Gather around the bonfire, swap stories, share laughs, and create new memories under the stars. After all, some of the best camp moments happen when the day winds down, and the conversations heat up.  Order Of The Leaf is going to be recognizing an individual with this year's passion award, as our Saturday night service and banquet is always a highlight.  You certainly won't leave hungry.  In addition to Joanna making wonderful meals all weekend, we provide Rocky's pizza, Smores for the camp fire, Cabana will be open with milkshakes and grilled cheese, plus a special surprise bonus truck as well.  

It's important to know that Leaf Weekend is not exclusive to Order Of The Leaf members!  This is an alumni reunion, and if you have any affiliation with camp, we welcome you.  Whether you're a longtime camper, counselor, staff member, or first-time attendee, this is your chance to fall back into old friendships, branch out to new connections, and relive the magic of Camp Airy during one unforgettable autumn weekend. Last year we had over 300 attendees and we hope to continue to grow that number each year. 

 -Jason Smulson, Vice President 

How Does Leaf Support Camp? 

With the generous support of all of our members and their active participation in many different Leaf events, Leaf’s financial position is the strongest it has been in years. Thus, Leaf is able to contribute more to Airy’s staff appreciation efforts this year than ever before.   

For the past several years, we have sponsored an Ice Cream Truck at Leaf Pinning and Rocky’s pizza for a staff appreciation event in week 6.  Leaf will continue these two projects this summer as well. 

However, Leaf is giving a lot more this summer.  Working in conjunction with camp’s administrative team, Leaf contributed funds to install new mirrors for the weight room.  Both campers and staff will benefit from this gift as the gym’s new weight room will see a major upgrade this summer.   

Also, everyone who has been a staff member at camp knows how much food is appreciated. Leaf is providing funds to sponsor all the snacks for the weekly staff meetings at camp, affectionately known as ATMs. 

Finally, Leaf is also trying to improve the experience in the staff lounge.  Leaf will sponsor several streaming services for staff members to enjoy during their time off. The World Cup this summer will likely garner some attention, so we want to make sure that the staff can see the games on their time off.  Leaf is also going to make a contribution to buy some more furniture and a new TV for the staff lounge. 

None of this could be possible without Leaf’s active membership. The Order of the Leaf is truly a special organization and staff and campers are reaping the benefits. 

-Adam Clay, Executive Secretary

Committees: Strengthening Friendship Through Service 

This year, Leaf launched several new committees to bolster our organization and our events. Check out what the committees are and who have volunteered to participate. 

Leaf Reunion Committee 

The Leaf Reunion Committee has been the model for this effort as they have devoted so much time and effort to improving this event year after year.  The core team has been working on this committee for years and they are:  Larry Polen, Larry Block, Eric Tublin, Joe Band, Dennis Shusman, Steve Goldklang, Ethan Matz, Linda Esterson, Jason Smulson, and Dan Alpert.  This group works on the schedule, food, passion award and all the things that go into making the weekend what it is.   

By-Laws Committee 

Every couple of years, it is a good idea to revisit the by-laws to make sure that they are current and reflect Leaf’s goals.  This committee illustrates how talented our organization is.  On this committee are several lawyers, a judge, a candidate for County Council, a decorated school principal, a baseball umpire, a Circle President, a Leaf President, and two Leaf Executive Secretaries.  

Ryan Perlin, who has taken the lead of the committee says, "The Bylaws Committee is working hard to help preserve what makes Leaf special while making sure our governing documents reflect how the organization actually operates today after years of evolution. We have had thoughtful discussions and lots of different perspectives as we work to keep the values of Friendship, Loyalty, and Service at the center of everything we do."  

Thank you to Ryan Perlin, Karson Kamenetz, Eric Bloom, Joseph Band, Stacy Derrick, Josh Fine, Gary Slossberg, Adam Clay, and Dan Alpert for your hard work on the by-laws. 

Leaf Reunion Logistics Committee 

This committee, which focuses on helping to make Leaf Reunion run even smoother, is not scheduled to meet until closer to Leaf Reunion. Thank you to Jordan Schloss, Eric Tublin, and Scott Feldman for stepping up to work on this important committee.  Jordan Schloss shares, “I chose to get involved in the committee as a way to ensure Leaf Weekend runs smoothly and all attendees have a positive experience.  It’s also a great way to stay connected and meet other members.” 

Leaf Reunion Recruitment Committee 

This committee’s mission is to get as many people to Leaf reunion as possible.  They have already started making plans to boost enrollment.  Lia Loucas shares, "I wanted to get involved in the recruitment committee because I love seeing people connect at the reunion.”   

The members of this committee are:  Jason Smulson, Dan Alpert, Rick Frankle, Adam Cohen, Max Alpert, Aaron Brodsky, Gordon Pollokoff, Jacob Pollokoff, and Lia Loucas. 

Leaf Reunion Sponsorship Committee 

The sponsorship committee is working on getting sponsorships to help reduce the overall cost of the weekend.  In recent years, these sponsorships have made a big impact on bringing the cost down.  Some examples of sponsorships include CIT classes sponsoring certain events; members paying for Kona Ice and Rocky’s pizza; and companies sponsoring favors for everyone who attends Leaf weekend.   Ricky Lasser shares, “I saw how this was rolled out last year at Reunion weekend - and as a business owner myself - I saw it as a great opportunity. I run a video production company, and had it not been for one camp friend thinking of me for one project years ago, I wouldn't have made an ongoing partnership that has been vital to Lasser Media being where it is today. So much of running a small business is relationships. Camp is a really supportive place and helping each other out - whether it's knowing about and supporting alum-connected and alum-owned businesses - or businesses chipping in to bring expenses down to make Reunion weekend more affordable and enjoyable so more alumni can attend - I see it as a win-win. That's why it was so important to me to keep this spring's inaugural Leaf Open sponsorships exclusive to camp-connected businesses. The event was well attended because we made it affordable and highlighted camp-connected businesses. It's simple, but I think that's what Leaf should really be about. Making it possible for Airy alums to get together and support one another.” 

The members of this committee are:  Dan Alpert, Eric Tublin, Stephen Tonelson, Ricky Lasser, Adam Cohen, Rick Frankle, and Scott Feldman. 

If any Leaf member is interested in joining a committee, or creating a new one, reach out to the Leaf board or to one of the members of the committee.   

Pickleball Palooza Serves Up Another Winning Day at Camp Airy

The Order of the Leaf scored another ace on Sunday, May 3, as alumni gathered at Camp Airy for the second annual Pickleball Palooza. With blue skies overhead, crisp spring weather, and a fantastic turnout, the day was the perfect recipe for fun, fellowship, and friendly competition. 

Alumni of all ages came out to dink, dive, and volley their way through a full day of pickleball action. Whether participants were first-time players learning the ropes, intermediate competitors sharpening their skills, or seasoned experts showing off their spin shots, there was truly something for everyone. The courts were buzzing with energy as players rotated through a variety of random games that kept things fresh, exciting, and full of laughs. 

Of course, all that pickleball action worked up an appetite. Fortunately, we had lunch with Rocky's Pizza, giving everyone a chance to refuel and swap stories between matches. The pizza was a smash hit and helped keep players energized throughout the afternoon. 

By the final serve, participants left with smiles, new friendships, and memories that are sure to stick around. If this year's event is any indication, the future of Pickleball Palooza looks bright, and the Order of the Leaf continues to prove that its alumni community is still growing strong. 

We can't wait to see everyone back on the courts next year for another day of fun, fellowship, and a whole lot of pickleball! 

-Jason Smulson, Vice President

The Leaf Open

The inaugural Leaf Open was a tremendous success, bringing together members of the Order of the Leaf for a memorable day of competition, camaraderie, and camp spirit at Fairway Hills in Columbia, Maryland.

We had over 50 people attending! With more than ten teams competing in a four-man scramble format, golfers of all skill levels enjoyed a fun and competitive round while making lasting memories with fellow Leaf members. The excitement extended beyond the tournament itself with contests for Longest Drive, Closest to the Pin, and a putting competition that kept everyone engaged throughout the day. 

After a fantastic morning on the course, participants gathered for a delicious BBQ lunch before the awards ceremony, where the members of the championship team were proudly presented with their very own green jackets to commemorate the first-ever Leaf Open champions. The event was a wonderful celebration of friendship, tradition, and the lifelong connections that make Camp Airy so special. Thank you to everyone who participated, helped organize, and supported this inaugural tournament; we couldn't have asked for a better first year. We are already looking forward to making the Leaf Open an annual tradition and can't wait to see everyone back on the course next year! Special thanks to Ricky Lasser and all of our sponsors for making this possible!

Treasurer's Report

2026 is going strong. Recent events like Pickleball and The Leaf Open have been very successful. I want to thank all the sponsors for The Leaf Open! We would not have been able to have a successful event without them.  We are sharing this success with camp. The Order of the Leaf has been able to help fund the Staff lounge this summer, along with mirrors for the new weight room. We have continued our practice of online banking, continued to use PayPal and Jotform for events, and used the same accountants for Taxes.  Below are the numbers before our biggest event of the year Leaf Weekend. 

Accounts

Total Cash and Bank $11,991.61

Other Assets $0

Long-term Assets $0

Total $11,991.61

Liabilities

Total Current Liabilities $0

Total Long-term Liabilities $0

Total Liabilities $0

Equity

Total other Equity $0

Total Retained Earnings $11,991.61

Total Equity $11,991.61

Camp Airy Order of the Leaf Officers 2024-2026

President: Dan Alpert

Vice President: Jason Smulson

Secretary: Linda Esterson

Executive Secretary: Adam Clay

Treasurer: Stephen Tonelson

Members at Large: Zach Mittelman, Ryan Pine

Want to support the efforts of the Order of the Leaf? Make a contribution today.