New Camper Magazine

‫אני‬ ‫קוראת‬

A WORD FROM YOUR ROSH!

TIPS FOR SENDING YOUR KIDS TO CAMP! SAMPLE DAILY SCHEDULE PACKING LIST Inside!

?vrue vn-r

Welcome

‫ברוכים הבאים‬

Dear Parents and Campers, Welcome to Camp Ramah in California. As you may or may not know, the revamp of our Gesher/Nitzanim programs was a primary focus in the last two summers. Our goals included engaging our families in the journey leading up to camp, rethinking the schedule for the younger chanichim/ot (campers) to make it more developmentally appropriate, and ensuring that they experienced the absolute BEST Ramah has to offer. All of this took place in the nurturing, safe and loving environment these kids need and deserve.

We are thrilled to say that the results of our parent and camper surveys, along with our own eyes and ears on the ground, clearly demonstrated that the focus and attention led to great success. We are excited to continue and grow this coming year. We have new Gesher majors, schedule “tweaks” and some exciting new keepsake projects the chanichim will bring home to provide their families with a peek into their camp experience. We are also excited to partner with PJ library and bring more reading to camp and to our younger campers. We believe that night time routine and rituals at camp have a strong power and we look forward to our new reading clubs! We continue to recruit strong, enthusiastic and nurturing tzevet (staff) who can’t wait to welcome you to what we hope is the first of many Keitzim (summers) at Ramah!

Please know that we are eager to receive feedback from our camp families. We are always looking to grow, improve and evolve. Our youngest campers represent a beginning, the present and, most importantly, our future.

‫ בשותפות והתרגשות‬In partnership and excitement, Rabbi Joe, Ariella, Hannah, Aviva, Ami Fields-Meyer and Danielle Kohanzadeh Exec. Dir., Assoc. Dir., Prog. And Outreach Director., Dir. of Camper Care, Rosh Gesher 2016 and Rosh Nitzanim 2016 Camp Ramah is an American Camp Association accredited, residential summer camp affiliated with the Conservative Movement and National Ramah Commission and operates under the educational auspices of the Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies at American Jewish University.

What camper parents say…

“The staff and campers are beyond menches. It is our children’s happy place.

My daughter came home strong, confident, and with enthusiasm taught us how to make challah. Our son came home more independent.

We are very happy with camp.”

“When I picked up my beaming daughter, she raced towards me with her arms open and looking stronger than I remembered. She talked and sang and told me stories the whole hour drive home.

She seemed so... worldly and wise!

Not the kid we dropped off at the bus two weeks before.”

“Camp Ramah in California is an incredible magical place and I feel lucky my three kids have attended.

It has changed their lives and they have made lifelong friendships.”

“We live in a generation where we problem solve for our kids and mediate for them constantly. My child learned this summer at camp to navigate his own social, emotional and physical issues. I can’t think of a better place than camp to learn those life skills and I can’t think of a better gift to my child!”

“When I picked up my daughter who went to Gesher and she ran to the car crying, I thought she was so excited and moved to see me.

I, of course, starting crying too.

She made it clear very quickly that she was crying because she didn’t want to leave camp and NOT because she missed me... Oh well...”

le u d e h c S ly i a D le Gesher Samp p!)

‫ קימה‬Kimah (Wake Ut Boker (Breakfast) Arucha ‫א‬ ‫רו‬ ‫ח‬ ‫ת‬ ‫בו‬ ‫ק‬ ‫ר‬ 8:00AM ) ot (Prayers ll ’fi T ‫ת‬ ‫פי‬ ‫לו‬ 8:40AM ‫ת‬ up time) n a le (C n o y ‫ נ‬Nika 9:30AM ‫קיון‬ jor Elective a M ‫חו‬ ‫גי‬ ‫ם‬ ‫ר‬ 10:15AM ‫אשי‬ ‫ כי‬Snack ) 11:45AM ‫בוד‬ cing/Singing n a (D a ir h S Rikkud/ ‫רי‬ ‫קו‬ ‫ד‬ / ‫שי‬ h) ‫ר‬ ‫ה‬

M P 0 :0 12 raim (Lunc o h o z T t a h Aruc ‫א‬ ‫רו‬ ‫ח‬ ‫ת‬ ‫צ‬ ‫ה‬ ‫ריי‬ ‫ם‬

M P 0 12:5 est Time) (R a h c u n e ‫ מנו‬M 1:40PM ‫חה‬ (Swimming) a iy h c S ‫ש‬ 2:30PM ‫חייה‬ Electives r o in M ‫חו‬ ‫ג‬

3:30PM ‫ ספו‬Sports 4:30PM ‫רט‬ lat Erev u e P ‫פ‬ ‫ע‬ ‫ול‬ ‫ת‬ ‫ﬠ‬ ‫ רב‬ening Activity) 5:30PM (Ev at Erev h c u r A ‫א‬ ‫רו‬ ‫ ﬠרב‬n‫ת‬e‫ח‬r) 6:45PM (Din Showers ‫מ‬ ‫קל‬ ‫חו‬ ‫ת‬ ‫ﬠ‬ ‫ר‬ ‫ב‬

7:45PM Lilah Tov t la u e P ‫פ‬ ‫ע‬ ‫ול‬ ‫ לילה טוב‬ig‫ת‬ht Activity) 8:15PM

7:00AM

(Goodn

Nitzanim Sample Daily

Schedule

‫ קימה‬Kimah (Wake Up!) 8:00AM ‫בוקר‬ ‫ ארוחת‬Aruchat Boker (B reakfast) 8:45AM ‫שחרית‬ Shacharit (Pr ayers) 9:30AM ‫ נקיון‬N ikayon (Clean up time!)

10:00AM ‫ספורט‬ Sports 11:00AM ‫שחייה‬ Schiya (Swimm ing) 12:00PM ‫י ש ר אל‬ Yisrael 12:50PM ‫צהריים‬ ‫ ארוחת‬Aruchat Tzohora im (Lunch!)

1:40PM ‫מנוחה‬ Menucha (Res t time!)

2:30PM ‫חוגים‬ Chuggim (Elec tives) 3:30PM ‫ת צריף‬ ‫ פעול‬Peulat Tzrif (Bunk Activity) 4:30PM ‫יהדות‬ Yahadut (Jew ish Learning) 5:30PM ‫כיף לי‬ Kef Li (Fun f or me!)

6:45PM ‫ת ﬠרב‬ ‫ ארוח‬Aruchat Erev (Dinn er) 7:45PM ‫ פעולת ﬠרב‬Peulat Erev (Night Activity) 8:45PM ‫ לילה טוב‬Lilah Tov! (g 7:30AM

oodnight!)

A Note from the Desk of Our Director of Camper Care Dr. Aviva Levine Jacobs

what they love about hen chanichim and tzevet are asked the words to adequately Camp Ramah, some struggle to find feel so intensely during the convey the magic of camp that they a summer camp experience summer. For those of you who had te. For me, when I think back on growing up, you may be able to rela recall a few outstanding programs my own camp experience, sure, I can ly rnight trips (tiyulim), but what I real and the names of campsites from ove ay, and the tod ng stro ed in my youth that remain carry with me are the friendships form t magic that of myself among the hills of Ojai. Tha feeling that I became the best version ial skills, a now tells us results in more adept soc occurs for chanichim, which research developed Jewish increase in self-esteem, and a more stronger sense of independence, an king throughout the result of a team of professionals wor identity, is in fact not magic at all. It is ly hard to create ming and hire staff who work incredib the year to intentionally craft program dren can thrive. an optimal environment in which chil being, children ment does not magically come into iron env p cam the t tha way e sam In the ly for some a first-time camp experience. Certain do not magically become ready for l, readiness for easily than for others, but in genera re mo es com s ines read this n dre chil s who care for ported by the adults in children’s live camp develops over time and is sup e for a successful of the things that help a child prepar ny ma t tha is s new d goo The m. the few tips for helping y already be doing. Below are just a summer at camp are things you ma t. their camp journey on the right foo you support your child in starting off

W

Provide a listening ear

looking with your child about what he/she is talk to ce spa the te crea s che roa app As camp their feelings by concerns they may have. Normalize forward to about camp as well as any y may g away to camp have some things the goin are who kids ny ma t tha m the reminding Is he nervous about to share his/her specific concerns. be nervous about. Allow your child By voicing worried that she won’t like the food? she Is t? nigh at ep asle fall to able not being tions. better able to discuss potential solu their specific concerns you become

Pro-active problem-solving

s. For a child who strategies to address their concern e som d chil r you with ugh thro Talk /her to read e, you might send up a letter with him may be concerned about missing hom to make the ind them of your belief in their ability rem y ma you it, In . you sing mis n whe e overcome in other challenging experiences they hav most of their camp experience and of a friend’s house m, riding a bike, or sleeping over at swi to how g nin lear as h suc t pas the es such as, “if you may be try to avoid making promis for the first time. As tempting as it will come pick you and you still want to come home, I k wee first the of end the to it ke ma you to your word g to such statements and will hold up.” We have found that children clin by the third day. even if they are enjoying themselves

Practice makes perfect

with “camplicated, you can provide your child dup be not can nce erie exp p cam While the experiences in y be helpful to plan some overnight like” experiences prior to camp. It ma spending a tives to help your child acclimate to rela or nds frie with r me sum the of advance

night away from home. These can be used as helpful touchpoints to refer back to later.

“Remember when you felt nervous about sleeping over at Grandma’s hou se, but then you did it and it wasn’t so scary after all.” Exp ose your child to some new activitie s, suc h as a new game or a new hiking trail. Remind him/her tha t there will be lots of new things for the m to try at camp and encourage them to try out those acti vities before making a judgment abo ut whether they like it or not. Help raise your child’s comfort level with independent living skills suc h as showering (there are no baths at camp!), putting awa y clean clothes where they belong, gett ing ready for bed at night (brushing their teeth, combing their hair). Of course there will be counse lors (ma drichim) providing reminders and available to give a help ing hand, but the more comfortable you r children are with these tasks, the more they will be able to focu s on having fun and getting lost in the magic of camp.

New Camper Orientations

Each spring, Camp Ramah hosts new camper orientations in several loca tions. These events are a great opportunity for new camper s to meet other kids going to camp for the first time and for parents to get answers to any questio ns they may have. Contact the Ram ah office for details.

What is the role of a yoetz/yoetzet,

Can’t wait to see you at Camp!

Dr. Aviva Levine Jacobs a parent lia

ison?

We are fortunate to have one parent liaison working directly with each eda h.

Each parent liaison: •P rovides support and guidance to rash ei edah and madrichim throughout the summer on the topics of child development, relation ship building skills, active problem-sol ving , and much more •M anages communication with parent s of chanichim during the session •S pends time with the edah and is visi ble and accessible to any chanichim in need of support Here are some reasons you might con tact the yoet/yoetzet: •Y ou receive a letter mentioning hom esickness and you want to know whe ther it has lessened •Y our travel plans have changed and you want to make sure your child is awa re •Y ou want to make us aware of somethi ng significant that was going on for you r child prior to camp Our parent liaisons check voicemail and e-mail frequently and make eve ry effort to return parent inquiries within 24 hours. Yoatzim spe nd most of their time out around cam p with chanichim and madrichim, and not in the office, so please mention the best times of day /ev enin g to reach you when you leave a message.

How to reach your yoetz/yoetzet: On the first day of camp you will rece ive an e-mail with your child’s bunk assignment and with the name and contact information of you r child’s parent liaison.

These e-mail addresses are great way to reach yoatzim during the summer : Gesheryoetzet@ramah.org • Nitzan imyoetzet@ramah.org Before the summer feel free to be in touch with our Director of Camper Care regarding any questions or concerns at aviva@ ramah.org.

Sample Two & Four Week Schedules Sunday Yom Rishon

Monday Tuesday Yom Sheni Yom Shlishi

Wednesday Yom Revi'i

Thursday Yom Chamishi

Friday Yom Shishi

Saturday Yom Shabbat

DAY 1

DAY 2

DAY 33

DAY 44

DAY 5

Welcome to Camp!

First Day of Gesher Majors

Camp Scavenger Hunt

Getting Ready for Shabbat

Popsicle and Story Time on the Givah

DAY 6

DAY 7

DAY 8

DAY 9

DAY 10

DAY 11

DAY 12

Picture Day

Leil Eilat: Night Swim for Gesher

Yom Tikkun Olam

Camp Concert in our Amphitheater

Tiyul Experience – Gesher A/C: Treehouse Gesher B/D: Lake Casitas

White Shabbat – Don’t forget to bring your white clothing

Motzash: Rikkud Dance Party on the Basketball Court

DAY 13

DAY 14

Camp Banquet and Final Farewells

L’hitraot and See you Next Summer!

Wednesday Yom Revi'i

Thursday Yom Chamishi

Friday Yom Shishi

Saturday Yom Shabbat

DAY 1

DAY 2

DAY 33

DAY 44

DAY 5

Welcome to Camp!

First Normal Day of Camp and Pick your Chuggim!

Icebreakers with the edah!

Getting Ready for Shabbat

Popsicle and Story Time Live on the Givah

Sunday Monday Tuesday Yom Rishon Yom Sheni Yom Shlishi

DAY 6

DAY 7

DAY 8

DAY 9

DAY 10

DAY 11

DAY 12

Picture Day

Leil Eilat: Night Swim for Nitzanim

Yom Balagan – Campwide Fun Day

Camp Concert in our Amphitheater

Mystery Auction Night!

Yom Yisrael: Israeli Carnival

Star Gazing in the Camp Observatory after Havdallah

DAY 13

DAY 14

DAY 15

DAY 16

DAY 17

DAY 18

DAY 19

Talent Show!

Laundry Day! Yom Tikkun Olam

Jewish Superhero Night!

Bunk Bonding Activity: Ojai Hike

Mud Hugs From Machon!

Motzash: Rikkud Dance Party on the Basketball Court

DAY 20

DAY 21

DAY 22

DAY 23

DAY 24

DAY 25

DAY 26

Night Time in the Garden

Maccabiah Opening Ceremonies

Maccabiah!!

Tiyul: Nitzanim Overnight at Lake Casitas and Trip to the Water Park!

Leil Hofa’ah: Camp Musical!

Last Shabbat!

Havdallah on the Givah with Nitzanim!

DAY 27

DAY 28

DAY 29

Late Night Bunk Activity: Warm and fuzzies!

Banquet and Final Farewells!

L’hitraot and See you Next Summer!

What Will I Eat? Sample Menu

At Ramah we work to create balanced meals, made from fresh ingredients, that are both healthy and tasty for our campers.

All meals are served family style and we have plenty of gluten free, dairy free and vegetarian options!

Breakfast

Lunch

Dinner

• Sunday:....... Bagels and scrambled eggs • Monday:...... Pancakes and bananas • Tuesday:...... Breakfast Burrito • Wednesday:. Cheese Omelet and hashbrowns • Thursday:.... Croissants and blueberries • Friday:......... Waffles and strawberries • Saturday:..... Chocolate Muffins and Hardboiled eggs

•S unday:....... Mac and Cheese •M onday:...... Pizza with salad, carrots and celery •T uesday:...... Wrap sandwiches and bissli •W ednesday:. Falafel with Pita, hummus, and Israeli salad •T hursday:.... Turkey burgers •F riday:......... Make your own Burrito •S aturday:..... Deli Sandwiches, Cholent and cole slaw

• Sunday:....... Make your own Taco • Monday:...... Stir fry and egg rolls • Tuesday:...... BBQ (Hamburgers, hotdogs, French fries and watermelon) • Wednesday:. Chicken Nuggets and Mashed Potatoes • Thursday:.... Tortellini and Tomato soup • Friday:......... Shabbat dinner (chicken, broccoli, potatoes, chicken noodle soup, challah) • Saturday:..... Spaghetti and Garlic Bread

Everyday Items Every Breakfast

• Cereal & Granola • Yogurt & Cottage Cheese • Fresh Fruit • Oatmeal and berries

Every Lunch and Dinner • Tuna and hardboiled eggs • Quinoa or Rice • Salad with fresh vegetables • SunButter & Jelly Sandwich

The Basics

• Kosher – All food is certified kosher and under the supervision of the Conservative Movement.

• Vegetarian – When we serve meat or fish there is always a vegetarian option.

• Gluten-Free – While our kitchen is not Gluten-Free and cross-contamination is possible, there is a selection of Gluten-free food offered at meals for those who need.

• Dairy-Free/Vegan – At every meal we strive to serve a dairy-free (usually vegan) option for campers and staff as well as offering soymilk and lactaid milk at breakfast.

• Daily Snacks – We provide healthy snacks like fruit, popcorn, or cheese sticks for all campers and staff during the day.

• Nut-Free – Camp Ramah is a nut-free community, however we do serve prodcuts that are made in a facility that also processes nuts.

Tips for Gesher & New Camper Families Before Your Child Goes to Camp

• Encourage as many sleepovers at friends’ homes as possible (group sleepovers are even better).

• If your children don’t have friends going with them, get in touch with Ramah and try and arrange for a play date with one or two other kids.

• Discuss strategies with your child if he/she has a difficult time falling asleep or wake up early (i.e. reading, drawing).

• You may want to pack a letter in their luggage for them to open when they arrive at camp • Send a letter to camp a couple of days before they leave so they will get it soon after they arrive.

• Send your camper with stationery, stamps, and address labels for anyone that they might want to write to while at camp.

• Consider getting a lap desk that holds their stationery.

• If your child does not already make his/her own bed on a daily basis, they will at camp so you might want to start getting them in the habit now.

What to do While Your Child Is Away at Camp

Important Tips to Share with Your Child

• Help your child set realistic expectations… Let your child know when they are at home, or in school, not every day is perfect. Likewise, not every day at camp will be perfect, but overall they will have a good time.

• Send your child with something that allows him/her to feel safe and familiar at night…a blanket, stuffed animal, or other item.

• If your child is feeling anxious about going off to camp, you can talk about other times that your child experienced anxiety and ended up getting through the situation just fine.

• As we say at Ramah, “Camp starts on the bus”… the send-off at the bus is easy for some and difficult for others. If your child has any friends going to camp try to arrange for them to sit together on the same bus.

• Don’t send your children with things like candy, iPhones (or any other wireless 4G-capable devices), and other items that are not allowed. These items will be confiscated and then your children are stuck in the situation of having to start camp by having a counselor take something away from them.

We want camp to be a place of giving and sharing.

• Write letters frequently but keep them light and upbeat. E-mailing your child through your Ramah account is also an option, but please note that campers cannot e-mail back.

• Be matter-of-fact about your day (kids like to know what you are doing but not that you are having too much fun).

• Add as much humor as you can.

• Try not to emphasize how much you miss them.

• If you have concerns about your camper contact the yoetzet (parent liaison) by email or phone, and they will get back to you as soon as they can, typically within 24 hours.

Mail letters to: Child’s Name c/o Camp Ramah Bunk # 385 Fairview Road Ojai, CA 93023

t is L g in k c a P im n a z Gesher/Nit l shirts 10 t-shirts/casua s or sweatpants 2–3 pairs of jean ts 6–7 pairs of shor irts ightgowns/nightsh 3 pairs pajamas/n ts/boxer shorts 14 pairs underpan

14 pairs of socks l) Bathrobe (optiona d no Speedos for boys an 2 swimsuits (No * bikinis for girls) im shirts), Rash-guards (sw d for all highly recommende ed rts that can be us 2 plain white t-shi for projects tional required for boys, op t) as le t (a ot pp ki 5 for girls

ses/contact lenses 1 extra pair of glas s king/athletic shoe 1 pair sturdy wal for Shabbat 1 pair nice shoes

r pool and shower 1 pair of shoes fo s tshirts/light jacket 2 sweaters/swea eve shirts 2 warm, long-sle 2 sun hats/caps

nditioner Shampoo and co ttle – 1 Liter Canteen/Water Bo 1 laundry bag Clothes hangers tteries Flashlight and ba stamps Pens, stationery, aypack Small backpack/d ove, racket, baseball gl Suggested: tennis a, extra er m s, disposable ca swimming goggle cards ps, books, playing am st tra ex s, rie tte ba

only) r camping trip use Sleeping bag (fo ily use) 2 blankets (for da cases Pillow and pillow sheets (required!)

2 sets of twin size Comb/brush

hcloths 4 towels and was r the pool) (2 for bathing, 2 fo ash g holder or Body W Soap with travelin 15 or higher) Sunscreen (SPF toothpaste Toothbrush and d.

itte *Tankinis are perm

Shabbat

BOYS d Shabbat morning For Friday night an ort) lo shirts (long or sh 3 white dress/po khakis lor dress slacks or 2 pairs of solid co (no jeans)

GIRLS d Shabbat morning For Friday night an s s and white blouse 3–4 dresses/skirt

t..

Remember, it’s Shabba s or red by either sleeve cove Shoulders must be for all Tfillot. shoulder cover-up D, and Nitzanim: Gesher B, Gesher t outfit g one white Shabba in br to re su e ak M for White Shabbat

Packing Tips & Advice Do I pack my child’s favorite t-shirt? What if it gets lost? Should I send up enough pairs of socks for one per day or more? What’s the best way to label clothing? These may be a few of the questions going through your mind as you begin the packing process. Below are a few tips offered by veteran camp parents who have perfected the art of packing for camp. And yes, it is most certainly an art!

• Pack WITH your child, not at night after he or she is fast asleep. You may be surprised about what clothing items your child doesn’t want to leave home without. More importantly this helps familiarize them with what is in their luggage so that upon arrival at camp when they begin the unpacking process it’s easy for them to pull out their bedding to make their bed and to locate pajamas and whatever else they may need.

• Provide tools for organization. If you can imagine that your child’s cubby may easily become a black hole of clothing where it could be challenging to find a pair of clean socks, you may want to consider sending up certain items like socks and underwear in mesh laundry bags.

• Ziplock bags are your friend! Use them for the following:

• Underwear – send extra

• Socks – send extra

• Shabbat Outfits

• Shampoo and Conditioner

• Sunscreen • Pack a waterproof basket for all of your child’s toiletries. Once at camp, the counselors will instruct your child to put their toiletries into this basket, and it will be used daily to help keep your child organized and to carry the items to and from the showers. If you have not purchased this before, Target usually has this item.

• Order sticker nametags 6 weeks before packing from a website like LabelDaddy.com.

• Label, label, label. Use sticker labels or iron-on labels to label everything that you send with your child (including the clothing they wear on the bus). Believe it or not, the stickers stay on even after numerous washings. Please take the time to label everything you are sending up to camp including water bottles, flashlights, even shoes. Labels make bunk clean-up occur more smoothly and allow us to return items left around camp before the session ends. Iron-on work as well. The good, old-fashioned permanent marker method often results in hard-to-read names or only initials, and you’d be surprised how many kids there are up at camp with the same initials!

• Don’t pack anything valuable or expensive. We expect your child to have so much fun at camp that the last thing on their mind is going to be keeping track of socks, underwear, nice shirts, etc.

• Please don’t pack items like candy or cell phones that are not allowed at camp. These items will be confiscated and then your child is stuck in the situation of having to start camp by having something taken away from them. We want camp to be a place of giving and sharing.

Shir Gesher Anu adat hagesher v’anu chadasheem Lomdeem v’shareem Ut’feelot bayn hehareem S’cheeyah bab’raychah u’shabbat bak’heelah Anu ohaveem et machanaynu Ramah Anu adat hagesher v’anu chadasheem Sport v’chugeem chavayreem m’yuchadeem S’cheeyah bab’raychah v’shabbat bak’heelah Anu ohaveem et machanaynu Ramah

Shir Nitzanim Ma ha’aydah hatovah b’ramah Adat hanitzanim Lomdeem, M’sachakeem S’maycheem lee’hiyot Yihoodeem toveem G’doleem vachazakeem N’h’yeh tameed hareeshoneem

Word Games

CAMP RAMAH CROSSWORD PUZZLE ACROSS

DOWN

5 a chug offered at Camp that uses a bow and arrow 7 a yummy French pastry that is served Thursday mornings for breakfast at Camp!

8 the Hebrew word for community 11 the music and dance festival that happens at Camp 12 you should have this with you at all times so you don’t get dehydrated or thirsty!

13 the Hebrew word for the overnight trip you will take with your edah

1 a type of meal we have Tuesday nights outside with hamburgers, hot dogs and watermelon!

2 something to make sure you don’t get burned!

3 a friend you would share a bunk bed with 4 a sport you can play at Camp with a ball and a hoop 6 the Hebrew name for the hill, the best place to “chill” at Camp 9 an age group or unit at Camp 10 the name of our Camp Infirmary

CAMP RAMAH WORD SEARCH

WORD SCRAMBLE

Try your best to unscramble the words below! B’hatzlacha! (good luck)

1. ooCchtlae Mfifuns __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ 2. kLea Csitsaa __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ 3. aiahbcacM __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ 4. uknB tAvytcii __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ 5. biRba Joe __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ BREICHA CAMPRAMAH CHADAROHEL CHANICH

RUACH GESHER NITZANIM

GIVAH RIKKUD SHABBAT

6. adCrrdabo zPzia __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __ 7. Rhso hdaE __ __ __ __ __ __ __ __

Check out our MAJOR Options for Gesher Participants*

Here is a list of SOME majors that might be offered during your Gesher session.

More information to follow as we approach the summer with specific major options and a sign-up form. Stay tuned …

High Up in the Sky – Have you ever been on a ropes course? Always wanted to go down a zip line? Wait until you see the incredible course located in Ramah’s orange grove. With trained staff, you will have the opportunity to participate in trust games, leadership activities, conquer your fears and hang out up in the sky.

HIYA Martial Arts – Are you all about action? Do movies like Kung Fu Panda and the Karate Kid make you wish you knew some cool moves? Well then it is time to bring out your inner warrior at the Machane this summer. You will get a chance to learn some fun moves from Tae Kwon Do, Kapuera, Krav Maga and more.

You will walk out feeling stronger, and with some amazing self-defense moves.

Someone’s in the Kitchen – Through the magic of cooking, take a trip in Chef Danny’s Jewish kitchen time machine and go back thousands of years to experience the “Four T’s” – Torah, Tikkun Olam and Tasty Treats!

Whether you’re a pro in the kitchen or not, get ready for some awesome cooking and yummy creations!

Roll Camera! Filmmaking 101 – Lights, camera, ACTION! Learn how to make a movie from a real Hollywood director! Starting with a Torah-based idea, you’ll create a modern story, write the script, shoot the scenes, and cut them together into an awesome, little film. You’ll work hard, learn and lot and become a close-knit team!

Ramah’s Got Talent – Do you constantly find yourself singing or playing an instrument? Do you have a rockin’ air guitar or drum solo you’ve wanted to show off? It doesn’t matter if you’re a skilled musician, like to make instruments out of everyday objects or are simply a music lover, you will find this workshop an uplifting and fun experience that will help you relate and connect to music! *4-Week Nitzanim Campers will learn about these options and more on the first day of camp when they sign up for their chuggim (electives)! We have some amazing options in store.

Here Are a Few of Our Fabulous Gesher MAJOR Teachers Danny Corsun (Someone’s in the Kitchen) Danny Corsun has been a Chef-Educator for 15 years. In 2005, Danny retired from teaching in just one classroom and started Culinary Kids Academy. As a result, schools all over the city (both public and private) began to sign up for CKA’s cutting edge and fun workshops!

Salvador Litvak (Filmmaking 101) Sal Litvak shares stories and wisdom with audiences around the world – speaking on a variety of faith and film related topics. He inspires creative thinkers and spiritual seekers of all ages and backgrounds.

Josh Warshawsky (Ramah’s Got Talent) Josh Warshawsky is currently in Rabbinical school at the Ziegler school of Rabbinic Studies in Los Angeles. Through music and teaching, he has brought new musical energy to children and adults of all ages.Josh has shared his original melodies with Jewish communities throughout the country. In 2015 he released his first album “Mah Rabu”, and will be spending time teaching and sharing music and Tefillah at many Ramah camps this summer.

Who Will Take Care of My Child at Camp?

DIRECTORS OF CAMP RAMAH Executive Director – Rabbi Joe Menashe Associate Director – Ariella Moss Peterseil Outreach & Program Director – Hannah Platt

Yoetz/et – Parent Liaison

The Marp – Infirmary Staff

Rosh Edah – Unit Head

Madrichim – Counselors

You can let your child know that there will always be someone he or she can turn to if something is bothering them.

Quick Tip! Parents are our partners.

We welcome you to be in touch if you receive a letter with concerning information.

We may turn to you for helpful strategies if your child experiences challenges.

Hebrew Words Commonly Used at Camp

‫ עדת שלום‬ ‫ אמיצים‬ ‫ בנים‬ ‫ בנות‬ ‫ ברכת המזון‬ ‫ ברכת המוציא‬ ‫ בריכה‬ ‫ חדר אוכל‬ ‫ עדה‬ ‫ גן‬ ‫ גשר‬ ‫ גבורי ישראל‬ ‫ הרגעה‬ ‫ קיץ‬ ‫ כיכר ציון‬ ‫ כוכבים‬ ‫ מכון‬ ‫ מרפאה‬ ‫ מרפסת‬ ‫ ניקוי המחנה‬ ‫ ניצנים‬ ‫ פעולת ערב‬ ‫ פעולות‬ ‫ ראש עדה‬ ‫ רוח‬ ‫ שחייה‬ ‫ סוללים‬ ‫ תפילות‬

‫ צוות‬ ‫ צופים‬ ‫ צריף‬

Adat Shalom – edah name for 7th graders

Amitzim – edah for campers with special needs Banim – boys Banot – girls Birkat Hamazon – the prayer after a meal Birkat Hamotzi – the prayer for bread before a meal Breicha – the swimming pool Chadar Ochel – dining hall Edah – a division in camp divided up according to grade Gan – a group of young children with parents working in camp Gesher – 2 week edah for entering 3rd-5th graders Giborei Yisrael – edah name for 6th graders Harga’ah – story or other “soothing” program in cabin before sleep Kayitz – Summer Kikar Zion – the outdoor sanctuary area in front of the breichah Kochavim – edah name for 10th graders Machon – edah name for 11th graders Mirpa’ah – (known as the “Marp”) – infirmary or health center Mirpeset – porch or patio area Nikui HaMachaneh – camp clean up Nitzanim – edah name for 4th/5th graders Pe’ulat Erev – evening activity Pe’ulot – activities Rosh Edah – a division head Ruach – spirit Schiyah – swimming Sollelim – edah name for 8th graders Tefillot – morning, afternoon or evening prayers Tzevet – staff

Tzofim – edah name for 9th graders Tzrif – cabin

‫זה‬ !‫עברית‬

Gesher’s Got the Beat!

I spent eight h (unit head) this Kayitz (summer)!

Eda h Ros r you be I’ll and r eye ds-M I’m Ami Fiel r at Camp this will be my THIRTEENTH summe so lor, nse cou a as r fou and per summers as a cam and I can’t wait to get back s were spent as a Gesher counselor, Ramah. Three of those staff session r. to my roots and lead Gesher this yea versity in Angeles, went to college at Emory Uni Los in up w gre I es: plac of lots in e I’ve spent tim l, my favorite have been to Israel many times. Stil and ca, Afri th Sou in r este sem a Atlanta, studied for er in Gesher, I know that it i. By the end of our two weeks togeth Oja in ah Ram p Cam is h eart on e plac will be yours, too! e counselors, at new friends, a bunch of awesom gre e som add p, Cam of ts par t bes If you take all the a singer? to do it in the breicha (pool)! Are you get ’ll You m? swi to e Lov her.

Ges and one YOU—you get ? You’ll get to play basketball, dar ochel (dining hall)! Big sports fan cha our in t tha of ty plen be re’ll The ing new and exciting sports! There will always be someth er oth ny ma so and , bee Fris ll, eba soccer, bas going on at Camp. jam-packed with fun. In the even more special and our days are For Gesher campers, the session is e new skill—like Majors program, learning an awesom the in ate ticip par to get ’ll you gs, mornin one of many others. chef, filmmaking with a director, or a with king coo rse, cou es rop the climbing on afternoon, Rikud and have a tasty lunch. In the in ce dan or ra Shi in sing to nce cha Then you’ll have a nighttime e), play a sport, and do an exciting ctiv (ele g chu a do ol), (po cha brei you’ll go swimming in our activity. Being in Gesher is the best!

For campers in da, the legendary Gesher overnight.

Aga on out d hea and up k pac to Finally, we’ll get telling stories at the nd a night hiking, playing games, and Geshers Aleph and Gimmel, we’ll spe and Dalet, we’ll venture out For those joining us for Gesher Bet p. cam ve abo just se, hou Tree her Ges e Casitas. k, and set up camp at beautiful Lak par er wat a at out g han nty, Cou into Ventura meet you and begin our and I hope you are too! Can’t wait to I’m counting the days until Gesher, you soon!

Camp Ramah journey together. See

Ami Fields-Meyer when That’s ME, er!

I was in Gesh

Welcome, Nitzanim!

Hi there! I am so very excited to welcome you to Nitzanim for Kayitz (summ er) 2016! My name is Dani Kohanzadeh and I am so thrilled to be your rosh edah (unit head). We have such a fun summer ahead of us!

Some of you have been to camp before and some of you will be spendi ng your first month at Camp Ramah this summer. It has been 12 years since I spent my first month at camp (as a chanicha in Giborei Yisrael) and I am so excited to experience the magic of Ramah, and Nitzanim, together this kayitz.

Before we get to meet in person, I’ll tell you a bit about myself. I grew up in Los Angeles, where I attended Sinai Akiba Academy and Milken Community High School. After high school, I moved to New York for college, where I am studying Philosophy and Jewish Ethics at Columbia Univer sity and the Jewish Theological Seminary. Over the past four years, I’ve done a lot of reading, gone on adventures with friends, and have done a lot cooking. I am graduating from college now and can’t think of a better way to spend this summer than at Camp Ramah with you!

Before you arrive at camp, I want you to know a little bit about what being in Nitzanim is like! We’ve got a great adventure ahead!

You’ll get to spend a whole machzor (session) making new friends, learnin g new cheers and dances and experiencing the magical ruach (spirit) of Ramah with your madrichim (counselors) and other chanichim (campers). You’ll enjoy spending time with your tzrif (bunk) and edah everyday at many different activities.

At Ramah, you’ll get to play sports, go swimming, sing, and relax on the givah (hill). You will choose a daily chug (elective) at the beginning of the session and have the chance to hone in on a particular skill that excites you! As Nitzanimers, you’ll have a chance to bond with your bunk and madrichim when you get to cook breakfast together in our bishul room. It’ll be such a fun and specia l way to start a day at camp. Our edah will have the chance to experience a tiyul (overnight camping trip) at Lake Casitas with a pit stop at the waterpark! At the end of each week, we will celebrate camp traditio ns and have a beautiful ruach-filled Shabbat. (Shabbat is my favorite time at camp!) We will complete a wonde rful machzor together on the last night of camp at a large and celebratory banquet, which you’ll dress up for with your tzrif (bunk).

Camp is a really wondrous place where you will make new friends, learn new songs and Hebrew words, maybe taste new foods, and have a lot of fun doing what makes you happy every single day.

I can’t wait to meet each one of your and discover what you love about camp as our session together progresses. Among all the things included on the packing list, don’t forget to pack your ruach (spirit), creativity, and excitement for a really incredible time at camp! I cannot wait to share Ramah and all the wonderful parts of being in Nitzanim with you.

Dani Kohanzadeh y during m Camp! e m ’s t t Tha mmer a first su

Camp Ramah in California At the Max & Pauline Zimmer Conference Center A Journey for a Lifetime 17525 Ventura Boulevard • Suite 201 • Encino, California 91316

! i a j O n i See You

!‫שלום‬

Summer Contact Info: 385 Fairview Road • Ojai, CA 93023 • Phone: 805-646-4301 • Fax: 805-830-1522 The National Ramah Commission acknowledges with thanks the generous support of The AVI CHAI Foundation and the Zell Family Foundation in making this program possible.