Our Camp Ramah
The Camp Ramah in Wisconsin Magazine
Dear Friends,
In my letter to you in the last issue of Machanenu Ramah, I noted that Ramah Wisconsin’s mission is to produce young Jews with strong Jewish identity and synagogue skills, with hearts full of love for Israel and Zionism, and enthusiasm for engaged Judaism through joyous Jewish living. I also noted a key mission goal for the upcoming summer was to bring as many Israeli staff and campers to Ramah as possible to provide a place of comfort, support, love and healing, and to connect deeply with our American staff and campers. We pledged to keep the hostages in our hearts and prayers, an ongoing situation which continues to traumatize Israelis. We emphasized the need for the continued financial support from our community, in order to ensure that every Jewish child has the opportunity to attend Camp Ramah in Wisconsin or Ramah Day Camp, regardless of their financial ability or situation. I am pleased to report that we had a very meaningful and successful summer on these goals and more.
In my visits to Camp Ramah in Wisconsin and Ramah Day Camp this past summer, I was delighted to see Israelis and Americans playing together, living together, building deep friendships and strengthening each other. I spoke with many Israeli mishlachat (staff) and chanichim (campers). They told me they felt welcomed, loved and safe at Ramah — and how surprised they were how much Americans knew and cared about them and Israel. Our American staff and campers similarly told me how much they loved making friendships and living with so many Israelis at camp. Our Israelis this summer included 20 campers and two staff members from the Otef (Gaza envelope) area of southern Israel. We welcomed, embraced and cared for Israelis at camp this summer in every way possible — including mental health support when needed. When flights back to Israel at the end of summer were canceled, we kept a group of them at camp and arranged for camper families to host them in their homes for several days until alternative flights could be arranged. Susan and I were happy to host four Israelis at our home after camp until they were able to return to Israel.
In addition to by far the largest group of Israelis ever this past summer, we hosted German and Ukranian campers, who also integrated well into camp. I want to thank you and the entire Ramah community for your generosity and support, enabling us to provide a rich, vibrant and welcoming experience for all these campers.
Immediately after camp ended we hosted the first-ever Alumni Camp for all 21+ alumni. By all accounts it was a very successful weekend. More than 125 alumni and spouses/partners returned to camp to reconnect with old friends, make new friends, and to spend Shabbat together at Ramah. Several of my own children were in attendance and reported a meaningful, impactful weekend filled with excitement, enthusiasm and great fun. Next year’s Alumni Camp is already planned for August 8-11, 2025, so plan to attend or send your kids!
In Conover we have already broken ground for the brand-new Guest House and Visitor Lounge at camp which we expect to have ready by next summer. Please plan to visit camp in summer 2025 and see for yourself! Ramah continues to play a profoundly important role in building resiliency, pride and Jewish identity in children, young adults and for our communities. Please make your plan now as we close out the 2024 calendar year to give generously to support and secure Ramah for many years in the future. Thank you for your continued support and generosity. Feel free to contact me with any thoughts or comments you may have.
Am Yisrael Chai!
Marc Sacks Board President
Please send
Check out alumni.ramahwisconsin.com for an alumni directory, update form, new baby onesie form and more.
Questions about material in this magazine? Contact magazine@ramahwisconsin.com or 312-606-9316.
SUMMER 2024
HIGHLIGHTS
This was an incredible and historic summer for Camp Ramah in Wisconsin! A record number of campers passed through camp — 587!
Combined with a full staff, we had far more people in camp this summer than ever before. We welcomed 65 Israeli campers — also a record! — as part of our approach this year to open up our doors to as many Israeli campers and staff as possible, over 140 in total.
Throughout the phenomenal summer filled with traditional camp experiences, including Kabbalat Shabbat on the shore of Lake Buckatabon, inter-eidah (grade) sports games, Hebrew musical productions, and more, there was a palpable undercurrent of one of our key foci: a lived sense of Jewish peoplehood. In addition to the Israelis in camp, we welcomed six German campers (three of whom are refugees from Ukraine who have been taken in by the Jewish community in Berlin) as part of our long partnership with a Conservative/Masorti synagogue in Berlin. The interpersonal connections which are one of our hallmarks helped achieve one of our essential goals during this painful moment for Jews everywhere: to bond Jews from different parts of the world together, and for Jews in the US and Europe and Jews in Israel to gain additional empathy for the lived reality, hopes, and fears of the other.
From the joy of campers feeling a sense of normalcy, to the growth of learning from one another, to the inclusion of people with all different experiences, to the connection everyone felt by being a part of the Camp Ramah in Wisconsin community, our four pillars were on full display this summer like never before.
AFrom Jacob Cytryn, Executive Director
t the outset of the recent High Holy Day season, I found myself urgently drawn to Torah written for this time of upset and uncertainty. Two such teachings struck me hard and remain with me, shaping my thoughts on this moment and our dear camps’ roles in it.
The first is from a sermon delivered by Rabbi David Wolpe on Yom Kippur at Sinai Temple in Los Angeles (available on YouTube) where he shared a powerful and unexpected lesson from one of our most-often read pieces of the Tanach, Psalm 23 (“The Lord is my shepherd”). At the outset of the Psalm we learn that though the narrator is walking through gai tzalmavet, “the valley of the shadow of death,” they are “not afraid,” because “God is with them.” Wolpe asks an obvious question, though one overlooked: “How could someone feel God’s presence in the valley of the shadow of death?” The answer: There is no shadow without a source of light; the very presence of a shadow is proof of brightness in the world, of God’s presence.
The second is from perhaps my favorite contemporary teacher of Torah, Rabbi Shai Held of the Hadar Institute, who meditates in a D’var Torah written for Rosh Hashanah 5785 on the notion of hope and other meanings and resonances of the Hebrew word for hope, tikvah. Held quotes a literary theorist I encountered in my undergraduate coursework on the difference between optimism and hope: “We should not confuse hope with optimism. I am not optimistic, but I am hopeful — at least some of the time.”
After this historic and vibrant summer — our first, as we often noted, in the shadow of October 7th — I am not optimistic about the state of the world, for so many reasons, and yet I am filled with hope, a hope built on the presence of God I sensed in the sunlight and the smiles in Wheeling and Conover during the summer of 2024.
My hope is fueled by the interactions I saw this summer with so many different types of Ramahniks interacting with and being shaped by the magic of our camps. I am hopeful because of the fifty rising kindergarteners who spent exuberant summers at Ramah Day Camp,
and because of the high school students — from across the United States, Berlin, Ukraine, and Israel — who spent restorative summers at Camp Ramah in Wisconsin. I am hopeful because I heard and saw our performing and visual arts staff bring together, through music, song, art installations, and more, meditative mourning with creative spark. I am hopeful because of the 150 Israelis, counselors, professionals, and a record-smashing number of campers, who came to camp to get something — respite and healing — and also gave our American Jews, of all ages, a renewed sense of the burden and joy of being an Israeli today. I am hopeful because I watched Rabbi Sam Fraint (z”l)’s granddaughters toddle on our championship basketball court which now bears his name and of which he would have been so proud. I am hopeful because of stories like those of alumni Shira and Danny Goldman (on page 23) who were called to Israel this summer and who, like so many others, ended up as actors in an unexpected extension of their already multigenerational and decades-long Ramah story. I am hopeful because of the seventy or so alumni from four separate Nivonim cohorts who came back to camp and shared with me their appreciation for what Ramah means to them and what Ramah has grown to be since they left, and the well over a hundred alumni who populated our inaugural Alumni Camp with their spirit (ruach) and love for Ramah. I am hopeful because the summer felt at once so normal and so sublime, and I know so many of us who were at camp this year, from our youngest campers to our most seasoned professionals and visitors, will speak of what it was like to be at camp this summer for years to come. The stories unfold in these pages and in the hearts and minds of the 1,800+ individuals who stepped foot in our camps this summer.
Like our founders and like the teachings of our Jewish tradition, our hope is not a passive hope but an active one, one where we take our role as God’s messengers on earth seriously, fighting for a better and more just future for ourselves and our children.
AN AMAZING FIRST ALUMNI CAMP
By Sarah Spellman, Nivo 2010
It’s hard to put into words the fun and success of the first ever Alumni Camp. It was a perfect opportunity for people to return to their home away from home, reunite with their eidah-mates, and introduce their partners or spouses to the magic of Camp Ramah in Wisconsin.
Some highlights included Friday afternoon kikar dancing, happy hour and welcoming in Shabbat at the lake, camp storytelling and Shabbat singing, sushi making, ligot (basketball leagues), playing softball on Shabbat afternoon, and much, much more! Some of the best memories of the weekend were found in the moments of the mundane, like Shabbat walks on the Garbage Trail or chilling on the kikar between events, similar to life as a camper. The Alumni Camp Celebration on Saturday night offered the chance to dance, take pictures in our photobooth, and line up for candy bars at chatif (snack)!
The camp fun didn’t stop there! Rachel Zeman (Nivo 2009), Michael Fishman (Nivo 2010), and Brendan Lyss (Nivo 2006) put on a radio show for all to hear, and nearly 10 alumni braved the cold to participate in an island swim. Alumni Camp culminated in a closing breakfast and the opportunity to try out the ropes course or bike the trails around camp.
As participants reflected on the Alumni Camp experience, the feedback was astoundingly positive. Alumni loved the chance to return to camp and share
in the experience with former counselors, campers and peers from different eidot. The feelings of l’dor v’dor (generation to generation) were palpable.
With everyone having such a wonderful time at Alumni Camp, they wished it could be longer, so we are happy to say that Alumni Camp 2025 will have a Friday-Monday option (August 8-11, 2025). We look forward to bringing our alumni back to the magic of 54519 each and every kayitz (summer) for years to come.
See you in 2025!
SAVE THE DATE! Alumni Camp – August 8-11, 2025
STRONGER TOGETHER
In July, 20 campers originally from the Gaza envelope communities spent two weeks at Camp Ramah in Wisconsin through the Campers2Gether program of the Jewish Agency for Israel. They joined the Bogrim (entering 9th grade) eidah (age group) for two weeks of pure camp fun. Rosh Eidah (division head) Ethan Sharp describes the experience:
The impact that this group of twenty Israelis had on us was profound. Between the educational impact that they left on us, teaching us about their culture and life at home, the Jewish impact they had on us, teaching
us about the traditions and customs back at home, and the impact they had on us as friends, playing games and enjoying the silly parts of camp all helped make this community strong. As one camper wrote, they now feel “closer to Israel, closer to Hebrew, and now I have best friends that live across the world. It’s so special.”
Building this community together was a oncein-a-lifetime experience, and for me as the Rosh Eidah, I could not have been luckier to be in this position. With the help of my tzevet (staff), and the amazing support team around me from Campers2Gether, we were able to create this beautiful experience for everyone involved. I also could not say enough how impressed I was with the chanichim (campers) in the way that they welcomed and included each other with open arms, and how they really were the ones who took the lead to make these two weeks what they were. I’m proud of everyone for coming together to create that space, and I take comfort in knowing that the memories they made will stick with them as they journey forward in life.
Scan the QR code to read Ethan’s full reflection on our blog.
Strengthening Hope Through Omanut (Art)
Since the events of October 7th, Jews and Israelis around the world mourn while continuing to experience the ongoing conflict.
The only way to move forward is with hope.
Led by artist-in-residence Sima Sayag, camp is using the Star of David, the iconic symbol of the people of Israel, to create an everlasting symbol of hope in camp.
We’re using the technique of Keith Allen Haring whose style is associated with a movement in contemporary art called “Pop Art” using humorous thick lines and striking colors.
One of the reasons Keith Haring was chosen was in memory of Michael Gal. Michael grew up at the Israel Museum as the child of a staff member. He loved art and was a man of people, love and freedom. He spread warmth and happiness, and conquered everyone with his characteristic laugh and mesmerizing smile. Michael enlisted in the reserves immediately when the war started and was killed in Gaza on March 10, 2024.
Scan the QR code to read the full blog post.
Israel in Camp by the Numbers
78 campers*
3,786
falafel balls consumed at camp during the 2024 season
8
72 staff members*
300 flights to and from Israel
Renditions of Hatikvah at Kabbalat Shabbat services on the shores of Lake Buckatabon
16 families who hosted Israeli campers or staff members
40 campers in Hebrew immersion group at Ramah Day Camp
*Combined Camp Ramah in Wisconsin and Ramah Day Camp
CHALLENGE ACCEPTED Ropes
Course Expansion and Fast Forested Bike Trails
For the 2024 season, Camp Ramah in Wisconsin debuted two major upgrades to outdoor adventure opportunities right here on the camp’s beautiful 150acre campus — one a longtime camper favorite and the other a slightly newer option. The first upgrade was a complete remodel and expansion of the high ropes course, nestled in the woods just across Buckatabon Road. The second upgrade was an expanded trail-bike riding course and new options for campers who want to explore the woods on two wheels.
The brand-new additions and overhaul of the high ropes feature a “static course” where campers can move through the challenge elements on lower and higher levels, and a “dynamic course” tower, where campers can rock-climb and belay up the “Jacob's Ladder” climbing tower. These joined longtime ropes course favorites such as two thrilling zip lines.
With this overhaul, the greatest improvement is a cutting-edge safety system that makes the course safe and more accessible to more campers at a time,
with less waiting time and demand on staff ratios.
With the old high-ropes structure, a belay system required at least two staff members to assist each camper up on the course, while other campers waited their turn. For 2024, the addition of “smart snap” clips allowed campers to move freely throughout the course’s elements and kept them secure on the line — quadrupling the number of campers who could participate at any one time.
“For kids who are invested in trying to challenge themselves on the course, there’s so much more independence,” said Dr. Yonah Fisch, Rosh Chinuch BaShetach (Head of Outdoor Education), a science teacher in Cincinnati, Ohio. “Kids can self-differentiate once you get them on the course. That’s the biggest thing, in an age of wanting to give campers agency and choice — the kids have so much more choice in terms of how far to push themselves. We’re still here to motivate them and push kids slightly beyond where they’re comfortable.
The Great Northwoods: Like Nowhere Else
In 1947, with incredible foresight, Camp Ramah’s founders established our beautiful machaneh (camp) on the site of a former fishing camp on the shores of Upper Lake Buckatabon in Conover, Wisconsin. Hours from the summer heat and concrete of Midwestern cities and even busy suburbs, the secluded Northwoods of Wisconsin are a world apart.
Unparalleled in the Upper Midwest, the Northwoods are a land of towering pines, sandy soil, bald eagles, abundant wildlife and cold, clear lakes. The northern latitude — situated farther north than even Camp Ramah in Canada — offers a great escape from sticky summer humidity (most days), with cool nights and crisp mornings.
“Nature and outdoor exploration opportunities up here are incredible,” said Dr. Yonah Fisch, Rosh Chinuch BaShetach (Head of Outdoor Education), a science teacher in Cincinnati, Ohio, and parent of Siona (Solelim ’24) plus two younger children. “The sheer amount of lakes, access to canoeing and hiking trails, and biking trails is amazing — even just across the way from camp. This is a huge snowmobiling region in the winter, and many of those snowmobile trails are closed to ATVs in the summer. So, those make incredible hiking and forest biking trails for us.”
There’s also a wealth of outdoor adventures within easy reach of Conover. “For example, Bogrim (entering 9th grade) goes west to North Trout Lake, and we bring the kayaks and bikes,” Fisch said. “There’s an incredible more than 52-mile paved biking trail that runs directly alongside the lake, and you can kayak through that lake too, out to Cathedral Point — a beautiful point in the middle of the lake. Having all those things integrated into one place is a really special part of the Northwoods.”
Nearly every eidah (age group) has the opportunity to take overnight camping trips — and the older eidot travel slightly farther afield to magical Northwoods destinations such as the Porcupine Mountains (Shoafim — entering 8th grade).
During this July interview, Fisch and the Machanaut (camping) staff had just returned from Lake Superior — only about 75-90 minutes by bus, thanks to Camp Ramah’s Northwoods location. Shoafim enjoyed the Presque Isle hike, Fisch said, which features three waterfalls and a trail that dead-ends at Lake Superior Beach. By some happy fluke of currents and tides, this year, Lake Superior was warm enough for swimming — and the campers were thrilled to jump in!
Campers also regularly see wildlife around camp, as well as in and on the lake — from the frogs and ubiquitous striped chipmunks, to turtles laying eggs in the sandy parking lot and the flock of Canada Geese who’ve made the waterfront area their own.
“It’s an immersive experience in the Northwoods that you don’t simply don’t get in our Midwest cities. You don’t even get it at the summer camps in southern or central Wisconsin — it looks different up here, it feels different,” said a current camper parent visiting this past season.
It’s challenge with support.”
The static course boasts a number of very cool touches, including a disjointed rope bridge that spells out “Ramah” in English and Hebrew. Campers interested in learning to rock-climb or further develop
their rock-climbing skills can now do so with multiple challenge routes on the dynamic course tower.
Camp also retained its low ropes challenge course (similar to an obstacle course), where eidot (age groups) participate in team-building activities.
Donor Recognition
Director’s Circle
$100,000 and above
Anonymous
Alumni Impact Campaign 2023
Crown Family Philanthropies
Federal Emergency Management Agency
Sheri and Steve Greenbaum
Rabbi Sam Fraint z”l Championship Basketball Court Campaign
Matthew Zell Family Foundation
President’s Circle
$50,000 and above
Dr. Rebecca and Daniel Blumenthal
Rachel and Ron Cooper
Harold Grinspoon Foundation
Nina and Arnie* Harris ◊
Harriet and Joseph Resnick ◊
Helaine and Howard Resnick
Susan and Marc* Sacks ◊
Mimi Sager Yoskowitz and Marc Yoskowitz
Rosh Eidah
$25,000 and above
The Beck Family Charitable Foundation
Charles & M.R. Shapiro Foundation, Inc.
Foundation for Jewish Camp
Jack & Goldie Wolfe Miller Fund
Chaviva Jacobson ◊
Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI)
Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago
Sara and Joshua Leslie
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National Ramah Commission
Mindy and Daniel Ribnick ◊
Robin Newberger and Steven Sacks
Dr. Margaret* and Alan* Silberman ◊
Lisa and Adam Vales
Rosh Anaf
$18,000 and above
Carol Weintraub Fogel* and Dr. Ronald Fogel
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Cyndi and Jamie Rosenthal
David and Etta Jonas Foundation on behalf of Ann* and Adam Schneiderman
Nancy and Michael Schoenberger
Northwoods
$10,000 and above
Anonymous
Allen & Janet Agron Camp Ramah Scholarship Endowment of the Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Kansas City
Dr. Wendy and Dr. Howard Bach ◊
Mary and Alan Becker
Julie Strauss and Joel* Brown ◊
Karen and Ethan Budin
Sara and Dr. Mark* Drexler ◊
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Ashlyn* and Daniel Gorlin
Ann and Mike Hofkin
Tamar Green and Benjamin Hofkin* ◊
Vered Hankin and Jeremy Kaufman
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Naomi and Jason* Litwack
Minneapolis Jewish Federation
Ronna Nussbaum
Sharon and Leon Oberlander
October 1, 2023 – September 30, 2024
Stacy Palestrant and Tomer* Rothschild
Kimberly and Dr. Ari Rubenfeld
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Agam
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Anonymous (3)
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The Drazen Family in Memory of Rabbi Paul S. Drazen
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Lilah Rubenfeld's Bat Mitzvah Campaign
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Northern Lights
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Accurate Metal Fabricating, LLC
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Lili Chester
Amy and Rabbi Eric Cytryn ◊
Tamar and Jacob Cytryn ◊
Esther Goldberg-Davis and Rabbi Alexander Davis
Gail and Jeremy Fingerman
Lisa and Todd* Fishbein ◊
Andrew Glick
Lorie Chaiten and Harold Hirshman
Daniel Hofkin
Marilyn Karasov
We are very grateful for the support of over 1,800 donations in fiscal year 2024! You can view a complete list of donors in the online edition at ramahwisconsin.com.
Sara Eisen and Matthew Levine
Ms. Rena and Dr. Richard Panush
Dr. Susan Feigenbaum and Dr. Jay Pepose
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Keren and Rabbi Simcha Prombaum
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Michelle and James Seidenberg
Emily and Rabbi David Soloff ◊
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Buckatabon
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Anonymous
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Dr. Deborah and Rabbi Charles Dobrusin ◊
Marlynn and Rabbi Elliot Dorff
Pamela Edison
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Barb and Andy Fishman ◊
Dr. Ranna Rozenfeld and Dr. Shane Greenstein
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Kikar
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Nivo 1988 Reunion Fund
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Donor Recognition
◊ Legacy Society member * Board or Va’ad (Committee) Member Sports Courts Campaign Contribution
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Friends
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Anonymous (3)
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Brandeis University/Kayitz Kef
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Gali Cooks
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Gary Cortes ◊
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Corey and Rebecca Derdiger
Dr. Becky Levine and Dr. Benji Derman
Dr. Carol and Dr. Gordon Derman
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Discerning Systems Inc.
October 1, 2023 – September 30, 2024
Debra and Dr. David Dobkin ◊
Ellen and Robert Dobrusin
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Kal Dolgin
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Jacob Drumm's Bar Mitzvah Campaign
Lauren Grossman and Jason Dubner
Jaclyn Millner and Gregory Duhl
Rabbi Sofia Zway and Rabbi Brett Kopin
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Dan Eisenberg
Rebecca Barak and Yuval Eisenberg
Debra and Daniel Eisenstein
Tanya Schlam and Dr. Jordan Ellenberg
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Marlene and Larry Engelhart
Shari and Ahiad Erlich
Marilyn Ernsteen
Marcie and Richard Eskin
Rabbi Shoshana Abramowitz and Joseph Eskin
Leora and Dan Falkin
Judy and Steven Feinberg
Jane Feinberg-Kaplan
Heather and Rabbi Jeremy Fineberg
Ellie and Marc Fineman
Teresa Brickman Finer and Dr. Paul Finer
Judy Finkelstein-Taff
Ellie Fishman
Shelby Cooper and Michael Fishman
Judith and Marshall Flapan
Jennifer and Stewart Flink ◊
Emily Schwartz and Rabbi Benjy Forester
Jodi and Dr. Avram Fraint
Ila Frankel
Jenna Lewis and Jeremy Frankenthal
Malka and Michael Frazin
Sonya Frazin
Aaron Freeman
Diana and David Freeman
Bonnie and Sheldon Freidenreich
Jacqueline Wolff Friedman and Michael Friedman
Jill and Mitchell Friedman
Jack Fuchsman
Miranda Smerling and Jason Gaines
Minda and Rabbi Ronald Garr
Jen and Yossi Garr
Steven Gershone
Jennifer and Gabriel Gershowitz
Karen and Dr. Jeffry Gerson ◊
Robert Gibbons
Michelle Harris Gilats
Scott Gilman
Rachel Fischer and Richard Gladson
Tihela Feit and Josh Gleicher
Amy Abrams and Ronen Glimer
Dr. Daniel Olson and Rabbi Benjamin Goldberg
Rebekah and Stephen Goldberg
Shira and Robert Goldberg
Dr. Bonnie and Dr. Gary Goldish
Shira Goldstein
Rona Malakoff and Ethan Goller
Every effort was made to correctly list donor names. If your gift was omitted or listed incorrectly, please email us at magazine@ramahwisconsin.com.
Andrea Rubin and Billy Goodman
Joseph Goodman
Erin and Jon Gordon
Shoshana and Matt Gordon
Mindy and Jeff Gordon
Amy Gottesfeld
Rani Halpern and Joel Green
Meka Greenwald
Karen and Steven Grey
Geoffrey Grove
Orlee Tatarka* and Mr. Yehuda Gruenberg
Ross Guberman
Tammy Halevy
Inna and Daniel Halperin
Paula and Dr. Aaron Hamvas
Mark Harris* ◊
Paula Harris
Andrea Goldstein and Michael Hayes
Miriam and Joey Heller
Anna Grossberg and Jacob Hodes
Lauren and Noam Hoffenberg
Alieza and David Hoffman
Daniela and Jon Hoffman
Melanie and Brian Hoffman
Stacey and Bill Hoffman
Naomi Bank and Steven Hunter
Michael Isco ◊
Abby Grad and Yoni Israelson
Dr. Becky and Max Jacobson
Jennifer Johnson
Lois and Mark Just
Eve and Steve Kafitz
Lizzie and Micah* Kafitz ◊
Pearl and Joel Kagan
Lina Garcia and Zachary Kagin
Talya and Rabbi David Kalender
Ellie Halevy and Larry Kalman
Dr. Michele and Dr. Nelson Kanter
Lauren and Scott Kaplan
Sinar and Dr. Allen Katz
Rabbi Amanda Russell and David Katz
Ariel Goodman and Isaac Katz
Ariel Katz
Joel Mullin and Sheri Katz
Lucy and Dr. Eitan Katz
Dr. Betsy and Michael Katz
Neera* and Michael Kaufman ◊
Matthew Kavanaugh
Dr. Robert Kavitt
Dr. Ilana and Alex Kehl
Elana Elstein and Jeffrey Keisler
Keshet
Jessica and Joel Ketner
Dr. Dalia and Brian Kirschbaum
Dr. Michael Klein
Terry and Rick Kleinbaum
Beth and Dr. Jeffrey* Kopin ◊
Dr. Risa Hurwich and Michael Kopinsky
Howard Korey
Lisa Korncik and Michael Kornick
Melanie Kovacs
Daniel Kressel
Scott Krider
Bryna and Rabbi Vernon Kurtz
Eileen Sklaroff and Cantor Mark Kushner
Sara Kushnir
Beth and Tamas Kutas
Samuel Lachterman
Heather Grulkowski and Elizabeth Lamin
Adam Leibowitz
Deborah Rivel and David Levenfeld
Dr. Elizabeth and William Levin
Sandra and Lawrence Levin
Melissa Levin
Sandra and Dr. Mark Levin
Sarah Levin
Jacob Levine
Dr. Arielle and Dr. Victor Levitan
Raquel Levitt
Jacob Levy
Bernard Lichtenstein
Emet Lieberman
Rebecca Minkus Lieberman and Dr. David Lieberman
Melani Lighter
Debbie and Gary Lindon
Dr. David Eisenberg and Karen Lobl
Sara and Steven Loevy
Ariella Rotenberg and Tyler Logigian
Abigail and Justin Main
Beate and Stefan Majetschak
Fred Manaster
Aaron March
Hedva and Dr. Moshe Matalon
Scott Mayer
Dr. Rachel* and Taylor McDowell
Alexandra Fidler Metzl and Joshua Metzl
Nataly Arber and Dr. Jonah Meyerhoff
Gretchen and David Miller
Steve Miller
Yaela and Moshe Miller
Annie Berger and Jacob Millner
Alan and Eugenia Mindlin
Ilyssa and Rabbi David Minkus
Debbie Kaplan and Michael Mnookin
Rebecca Linfield and Leon Moskatel
Diane Lowenthal and Bradley Moskowitz
Natalie Eisen and Zach Newburgh
Barbara and Donald* Newman ◊
Karen Binder and Victor Ney
Marissa Oberlander
Allen Oleisky
Joshua Olstein
Avram Pachter
Sandy Starkman and Larry Pachter ◊
Tamar Rubin and Adam Parker ◊
Ellen Sue and Dr. Jon Parker
Rachel and Ari Parritz
Gary Pazdernik ◊
Karen and Dr. Alan Peaceman
Lauren Israel and Hershel Perlmutter
Eliana Weiner and Dr. Benjamin Philipson ◊
Lynn and Dr. Louis Philipson
Erica and Donnie Phillips
Rachel Pickus
Ronen Pink
Lisa and Rabbi Jeff Pivo
Dr. Lilli Flink and Ariel Platt
Hannah and Brian Pogrund
Hannah Porter and Marshall Pollack
Elana Abraham and Josh Pomeranz
Dr. Bezalel Porten
Alexis and Kenneth Poss
Adi and Alex Prombaum
Jonathan Radosta
Yari and Kevin Rahmanim
Anne-Monique and Edward Rapoport
Marilyn Green and Dave Rebnord
David Ribnick
Donor Recognition
Elizabeth Ritchie
Rachel and Seva Rodnyansky
Faith Roessel and Matthew Slater
Lindsey and Jason Rose
Lisa Rose
Ann Lesley and Scott Rosen ◊
Sandi and Dan Rosenbaum
Alexandra and Jeremy Rosenberg
Holly and Michael Rosenberg
Dr. Jonathan Rosenberg
Sandra and Michael Rosenstein
Jennifer Pehr and Jonathan Ross ◊
Erin Frankel and Mathew Rotenberg
Amy and Mark Rotenberg
Marina Arutyunyan and Gabriel Roth
Michael Roth
Jill Korey and Jon Rozenfeld
Alice Rubenfeld
Robin and Rabbi Steven Rubenstein ◊
Aviva and David Rubin
Karen and Russ Rubin
Tracey Rubinoff
Madeline and Roni Rubinstein
Donna and Ari Rudolph
Rebecca and Rabbi David Russo
Anne Glasser and Steven Sacks
Tess Glassman-Kaufman and Joshua Sacks
Rabbi Susan Tendler and Ross Sadoff
Laurie Aloisio and David Salem
Brenda Schachter
Rabbi Sarit Horwitz and Rabbi Abe Schachter-Gampel
Hannah Minkus and Joe Schaedler
Scott Schechter
Tirza Schmelzer-Covel and Albert Schmelzer
Stacey and Neal Schneider
Rabbi Anina Dassa and Judah Schvimer
David Schwartz
Marci Dickman and Ralph Schwartz
Karen and Eric Segal
Margalit and Nathaniel Segal
Lauren and Marty Segelbaum
Lindsay Seidenberg
Naomi Polinsky and Adam Seidenberg*
Laurie and Mitchell Serber
Elli Smerling and Andy Sevi
Jeremy Shanas
Lori Stark and Dr. David Shapiro ◊
Dr. Miranda Hart and Jacob Shapiro
Adam and Joseph Shemaria Rudolph
Sarah and Jeremy Sherman
Madeline Shaffer and Jerry Shifrin
Orrin Shifrin
Aly Sider
Karen and Hal Sider ◊
Dr. Risa Siegel and Dr. Siatta Dunbar
Jorie and Andrew Sigesmund
Samantha and Yonatan Silverman
Rachelle Simon
Heidi and Matthew Simons
Steven Sklar
Emily and Dr. Jeremy Slosberg
Susan Agate and Michael Slutsky
Sheila and Michael Small ◊
Karen and John Smith
Rachel and Jonathan Snitzer
Danya Snyder
October 1, 2023 – September 30, 2024
Devora and Shimron Snyder-Shefer
Samara and Adam Soiref
Dr. Audra Kaplan Spellberg and Alan Spellberg
Alana Spellman
Dani Lewittes and Ari Spellman
Nori and Rob Spiro
Rachel and Howard Spiro
Abi Goldstein and Dr. Danny Stamos
Avi Stein
Shani Bocian and Josh Steinberg
Jesse Steinman
Keren and Jeremy Stonehill
Rachel Katz and Geoff Storchan
Amanda Sugar
Jodi and Bryan Sugar
Tiffany Sugar
Meryl and James Sullivan
Alison and Reuven Szleifer
Becca and Samuel Tatel
Mitchell and Ruth Taxy
Roberta and Leonard Tenner
Steven and Lisa Tenzer ◊
Matt Tepperman
Andrew Topal
Kari Chester and Noah Trueger
Tracy and Dustin Truesdell
Lauren Rosenthal Turon
Margaret Ungerman
Sonia and Ron Ungerman
Korah Erbacher and Nathan Unterman
Elizabeth and Ira Ury
Joan and Dr. Joseph Vander Walde
Abby and Vitaly Vorobeychik
Linda Wagner-Weiner
Laurie Wakschlag
Phyllis Waldmann* ◊
Kim and Matt Walzer
Glenn Warshaw
Leigh and David Waterman
Amanda and Sean Weil
Lisa and Michael Weiner
Sam Weiner
Dori and Gary Weinstein
Rita and Josh Weintraub
Danielle and Dan Weiss
Dr. Jody Zalkin-Weis and Philipp Weisskopf
Dr. Mary and Dr. Louis White
Ruth Igielnik and Ben Wieder
Barbara Gressel and Gary Wigoda
The Williamsburg Group, Ltd
Betty Winer
Carly Winick
Lee Wolf
Radyne and Dr. Steven Wolf
Robin and Mark Wolff
Judy Wolkin
Hannah Wulczyn
Katie Dawson-Wynne and Matt Wynne
Rabbi Elka Abrahamson and Rabbi Martin Zinkow
Phillip Zisook
Ramahniks
Up to $180
Anonymous (5)
Cantor Nancy Abramson
Shelli Aderman and Narda E. Alcorn
Leora Allen
Sharon Benmaman and John Allen
Max Alper
Melanie Amin
Paula and Rob Angell
Kaynan Appelbaum
Alyssa Appelman
Sally and Paul Arnold
Every effort was made to correctly list donor names. If your gift was omitted or listed incorrectly, please email us at magazine@ramahwisconsin.com.
Caryl Aronson
Amanda and Berek Awend
Shoshana Axler
Mark Bailey
Hillel Baldwin
Cheryl Banks
Devorah Lissek and Dr. Josh Barash
Hallie and Steve Barr
Chloe Bayhack
Anya and Fima Belenky
Lisa Rosenzweig and Mitchell Benus
Laura and Rabbi Jonathan Berger
Becky Kupchan Berkman and Shie Berkman
Seth Berkman
Adrienne and Efrem Berman
Rabbi Lizzi Heydemann and Henry Bernstein
Roberta and Charles Bernstein
Rita and Mitchell Berzin
Robyn Weinstein and Edward Bettenhausen
Lois Bierman
Suzi Birz
Moria and Russell Bittmann
Denise and Jack Bleichman
Abby and Lawrence Block
Theodore Bloom
Stephie and Dr. Andrew Blum
Randi Blume
Mira Blumenthal
Beverly Bochenek
Kelsey Bogue
Ilana and Mateo Borzak
Andy Bossov
Belinda Bowling
Eileen Leiderman and Ben Brener
Eric Bressman
Alyssa Brill
Becky and Stuart Brodsky
Gail and Andrew Brown
Mason Brown
Raquel Brown
Nica Brunetti
Shirley and Jared Bryan
Colman and Susan Buchbinder
Adam Budin
Daphne Budin
Jeremy Budin
Tova and Daniel Bukingolts
Scott Burstein
Yvette Busia
Sarah and Samuel Caplan ◊
Elspeth Carruthers
Barbara Charlip
Rebecca and Dr. Steven Charous
Hailey Chasson
Rachel Chernoff
Heather Goldstein and David Chudnow
KK & Aric Cleland
Judy and Lance Cohen
Lisa Goldberg and Mike Cohen
Dianne and Norman Cohen
Susan and Kenneth Cohn
Ellen Glick and Dean Conterato
Rabbi Deena Cowans
Sarrae Crane
Carson Crow
Aryeh and Flora Davidson
Kenneth Davis
Tamar and Ben Davis
Larry DeKoven
Samantha and Tom DeKoven
Donor Recognition
Alison Dreifuss
Allie and Brett Dresner
Mollie Dubner
Bernie and Rochelle Dyme
Avi Edwards
Ariel Efergan
Kern Egan
Laura Eglash-Fishman
Rami Eilian
Tanya and Mike Eisenwasser
Simone Ispa-Landa and Alexei Elinson
Judy and Isaac Elkayam
Susan and Jonas Ellenberg
Beth Elmore
Francine and David Ephraim
Lesley Farby
Rachel Poretsky and Matthew Farley
Anna Glassman-Kaufman and Zander Feinberg
Sarah Feinberg
Adina and Baruch Feldstern
Ariella and Marc Fiedler
Robin Fine
Whitney and Jay Fisch
Gabe Fishman
karin fleisch
Eva and Ari Footlik
Shira Forester
Beth Peerless Fox
Laura and Zeke* Fraint
Dr. Joe and Sue Freedman
Laura and Rabbi Alex Freedman
Missy and Jeremy Friedman
Eric Galante
Robin and Stephen Garfinkel
Asher Gavzy
Moses Gaynor
Beth and Gordon Gendler
Raphael Gendler
Sharon and Walter Gillett
Hazzan Jenna Greenberg and Joshua Ginsberg
Debbie and Mark Glickman
Judy Gold
Ruth Gold
Ari Goldberg
Marnina Goldberg
David and Maxine Goldenberg
Rachel and Yaron Goldfarb
Jaimee Goldish
Debbie J. Goldman Philanthropic Fund
Shira* and Daniel Goldman
Tiffany and David Goldman
Aaron Goldmeier
Havi Goldscher
Rebecca Goldsteen
Jacob Goldstein
Ellen and Larry Goldstein
Dr. Michael Goodman
Esther Gordon
Sharon Gordon
Marlee Gotlieb
Noa and Jon Grant
Shira Dickstein and Elan Green
Tali and Graham Griffin
Ally Gross
Mark Gross
Marla Grossberg
Molly Gruesner
Judy and Rabbi Stephen Grundfast
Melissa Korenblat-Hanin and Yoram Hanin
Kate Hayes
Billie and Simon Hellerstein
Carol Hendelman
Annlee and Art Herbstman
Barbara Herman
Donna and Jeffrey Hersh
Shanna and Andrew Hill
Mary Hlepas
Alysa Hoffman
Rabbi Jeffrey and Laurie Hoffman
Palmer Hoffman
Lisa and Perry Hoffman
October 1, 2023 – September 30, 2024
Barbara and Dr. Robert Hoffman
Yael Zinkow and Molly Hoffman
Gary and Debbie Holzman
Lindsey and Drew Horowitz
Tobi Cooper and Rabbi Daniel Horwitz
Sara Howes
Dr. Jeanne Horowitz and Matthew Huff
Karen Hyde
Jacob Inwald
Honoria Ivankovich
Shani and Dan Kadis
Sara and Richard Kaner
Gerry Kaplan
Shaina Kaplan
Jonathan Katz
Audrey Kaufman
Eliana Kaufman
Rabbi Eli Kavon
Heather and Mark Kelln
Risa and Steven Kessler
Adam and Nancy Kibort
Lowell Kirschner
Shom Klaff
Carla Klausner
Ellie Klausner
Jordan Klein
Mara and Mike Kogan
Stephen Kotok
Julie and Coby Kraff
Molly Krakauer
Marisa and Rabbi David Krishef
Michael Krule
Aaron Krumbein
Judy and Marshall Kupchan
Cheryl Krugel-Lee and Jacob Lee
David Leibman
Aliza Lerner
Justin Less
Samuel Levitt
Mortin Levy
Meredith and Benjamin Lewis
Debra Linfield
Andrew and Allison Lipsman
Karyn Liss
Avrom Litin
Nancy London
Emily Longwell-Grice
Henry and Sharon Lorsch
Evelyn Lowenthal
Arielle Kaufman and Ohad Ludomirsky
Stacy Luski
Marsha Lyons
Shannon and Joshua Maker
Rosalie and Dr. Rick Malter
Shoshana Mann
David Martinez
Katy Martinez
Dani Marx
Gertrude Matanky
Lesley Matsa
Judy and Steven Matthews
Shari Cohen and Robert Mayer
Allison Kamen and Michael McElwee
Nathan Mellman
Diane and Ben Melnick
Deborah Musher and Joe Menashe
Jan Meyer
Lindsey Meyers
Hannah Miller
Nancy Miller
Lezlie Milson Icaza
Rachel and Marc Modlin
Lauren Schneider and Larry Moss
Shaun Moss
Dr. Beth and Ronn Nadis
Fred and Lois Neikrug
Michael and Janet Nemlich
Cliff Nerwen
Ilana Neusner
Allisa Newman
Naomi Norwick
Jackie Rubinoff and Harry Orenstein
Every effort was made to correctly list donor names. If your gift was omitted or listed incorrectly, please email us at magazine@ramahwisconsin.com.
Nadine Orloff
Michael Ostrar
Brian Pack
Dr. Sharon Packer
Ken Pazdernik ◊
Lynne Peckham
Amy Peebles
Rachel Zivic and Rabbi Micah Peltz
Christina and Joe Pennington
Nanette and David Penzell
Robert Perks
Tova Perlman
Amy and Dr. Dennis Pessis
Helen Peters
Jonathan and Leslie Petuchowski
Aaron Pickard
Vicki Pines
Dorothy and Norman Pink
Talia and Dmitry Pyatetsky
David Raskas
Joel Ratner
Dani Segelbaum and Scott Reibstein
Angela Reiser
Rabbi Paul and Mrs. Martha Resnick
Katie and Matt Rich
Ronit Ripes
Jacqueline Rodriguez
Rubi Roman
Adina Romaner
Aaron Rose
Ellior Rose
Nadiv Rose
Sophie Rose Zakai Rose
Carl Rosenberg
Joanne Rosenbush
Dr. Elaine Hantman and Dr. Paul Rosenthal
Amanda Rubin
Daniel Rubin
Juliet Bellin-Warren and Gabriel Rubin
Marilyn and Dr. Gary Rubin
Susan Sack
Shelly and Michael Sackett ◊
Dina Mardell and David Sandberg
Susan and Rabbi Neil Sandler
Lisa Sanford
Michael Sarris
Diane and Albert Sasson
Janice and Jeffrey Schachtman
Betsy and Kenny Schack
Sandra and Ian Schaffer
Edna Schrank
Cody Schroeder
Estherbeth Buchbinder and Jeffrey Schvimer
Dafna Lender and Jonathan Schwartz
Jesse Schwartz
Raphael Schwartz
Rebecca and Ilan Schwartz
Eric Scott
Lauren Scott
Gail and Donald Segal
David and Alexis Seidman
Sharon Sethna
Pamela Brill and Michael Shalen
A C Shalman
Deborah Shalowitz Cowans ◊
Alex Shapiro
Courtney Shapiro
Frances and Steven Shapiro
Donor Recognition
Legacy Society member * Board or Va’ad (Committee) Member Sports Courts Campaign Contribution
Jordan Shapiro
James Sherman
Laura Baruch Sherman and Charlie Sherman
Dina Shiner
Naomi Shisler
Rebeccah Singer and Lior Shragg
Cyndi and Sheldon Silver
Daniel Silver
Maureen and Randy Silver
Tessa Silver
Joshua Silverman
Rebecca Silverman
Samantha Silverman
Laura and Rick Singer
Dr. Cheryl and Larry Sklar
Eliana Horwitz and Aaron Sklar
Eleanor and Louis Skydell
Stephanie and Michael Smerling
Jeri and Roger Smith
Harry Solomon
Julian and Judy Solway
Kayla Hammes and Ari Spector
Susan and Jeffrey Spitz
Lisa Stein
Tamar Stein
Judi and Neil Steinberg
Keren Fraiman and Eitan Stieber
Naomi and Jay Stonehill
Adina Rubin and Ricky Straka
Rabbi Sam Strauss
Shaina and Brad Sugar
Richard Swoiskin
Roxanne Kelber and Michael Tabak
Alexandra Tate
Michael Taxy
Karin Klein and Joel Teibloom
Barbara Myers Temkin and Harvey Temkin
Emma and Eli Temkin
Yaara and Daniel Temkin
Dr. Donald Temple
Naomi Teperow
Nicole Terry
Margalit Tocher
Rachel Small and Dave Tramonte
Amy Unell
Stuart and Jodi Urkov
Michelle Neuman and Rabbi Daniel Vaisrub
Zahava Vales
Ari Vandersluis
Marci and Dr. Joel Vandersluis
Rebecca Vandersluis
Rebecca Rapport and Miguel Verdego
Daniel Warshawsky
Dr. Robert Warshawsky
Candace Washington
Liat Wasserman
Maxima and Rabbi Burton Wax
Ari Weber
Avery Wein
Gloria Weinberg
Emily Weiner
Ethan Weiner
Esther and Joel Weltman
Elisheva Beller and Paul Wieder
Mike Wise
Carly Cooper and Aaron Wolff
Karen Helfand and Susan Woodstrom
Brenda and Bradley Wulfstat
Andrea Yablon
Ira Yablong
Yasmin Yahi
Ina and Dr. Joseph Young
Rosanne Zaidenweber
Marci Zeidwerg
Jared Zirkes
October 1, 2023 – September 30, 2024
Corporate Matching Gifts
Apple
Autodesk
The Boeing Company
Disney
eBay
Fiserv
HelloFresh
Hillspire LLC
JP Morgan Chase
Kirkland & Ellis LLP
Magid Glove and Safety
Microsoft
News Corp.
The Pew Charitable Trusts Matching Gifts Program
Starbucks
UHG
UMB Bank
In Kind
Rachel and Andy Abeles
Heidi and Ben Azulay
Dream Town Realty, Inc.
Diane and Isaiah Halivni
Olivia Herstein
Judy and Thomas Merkel
Julie Sala
Tesla
Tom, Dick and Harry Creative
Of Blessed Memory
We remember with gratitude the generosity of these donors who made legacy gifts in recent years. They will forever be remembered as devoted Ramah supporters who helped provide an outstanding camp experience for generations of young Jews.
Allen Agron
Betty Benson
David Berger
Rose Choffnes
Rabbi Burton Cohen
Mimi and Ron Grossman
Micki and Uzi Halevy
Manuel Feldman
Stanford Goldberg
Evelyn Harris
Rabbi Myer Kripke
Gertrude Lederman
Wally Lelewski
George Levine
Edward Marks
Roselind and Sheldon Rabinowitz
Vivian Rice
Dr. Herbert Rosen
Arthur Salkin
Leslie Schwartzman
Sam Zell
DIY!
2024 Solelim camper Lilah Rubenfeld recently raised over $5,000 for camp while fundraising for her bat mitzvah.
See Lilah's message from her fundraising page below:
My home is in Chicago, but my heart is in Ramah.
Camp Ramah in Wisconsin is my happy place, where I've formed close friendships and live a Jewish life in a fun, embracing, and adventurous environment. Each summer creates lifetimes of memories. Thank you for your contribution to such a special place.
This past year was the first year I was able to spend all 8 weeks of summer at camp. It was amazing. Each year, I count the days until summer begins and I can return to Camp Ramah in Wisconsin. It's really a special place to me and my family.
The my.ramahwisconsin.com platform makes it easy to set up a personal campaign. Are you marking a special birthday or anniversary? Celebrating a Bar or Bat Mitzvah? Organizing a basketball tournament? Running a marathon? Make it an occasion to support Ramah! Encourage your friends and family to give generously. Your investment in the Jewish future will pay dividends for years to come.
Scan the qr code to get started.
‘ON THAT SIDE OF THE BUS’: FROM ALUMNI TO PARENTS AND PHILANTHROPISTS
Steve (Nivo 1982) and Sheri Greenbaum
It was the letter home gushing about stepping out of her comfort zone that really clinched it for Sheri and Steve Greenbaum.
Their 13-year-old daughter, Jordyn, was just two weeks into Kayitz (summer) 2024 when she wrote home to tell her parents she’d tried something new and led part of services for her eidah (age group). What’s more, she told her parents, camp Executive Director Jacob Cytryn and Assistant Director Adina Beiner were in attendance at services that morning. Brimming with newfound confidence and excitement, Jordyn — who usually avoids the spotlight — shared that the camp directors and her cabin counselors had complimented her spirited singing, and encouraged her to lead more.
This is what it’s all about for the Greenbaums — alumni of Ramah Canada (Sheri, Alonim 1988) and Wisconsin (Steve, who would have been Nivo 1982 but took a summer off between Machon and Seminar 1983): Continuity, sharing the love of Jewish camping and transmitting Jewish joy to their children, Jordyn (Nivo 2027) and Jake (Nivo 2029), and passing on the gift of a Ramah summer to the next generation. Thoughtful, committed lay leaders who are deeply intentional with their philanthropy, the couple’s joy
in becoming Ramah parents is palpable.
This past July, the Greenbaums, who live in Highland Park, Illinois, visited camp for a week — Steve volunteering as a photographer and Sheri as chief “snack cart” driver (possibly the most popular role around camp!). The couple joined the ruach-filled (spirited) crowd cheering on Nivo vs. Machon girls on the new Rabbi Sam Fraint z”l Championship Basketball Court, and walked the “garbage trail,” relishing the fresh air of the Northwoods.
“Ramah was mine and my sister’s everything. Ramah was my Jewish identity, 100%,” said Sheri, who grew up attending public schools in West Bloomfield, Michigan. “We kept kosher and went to shul every week, but Ramah is what taught me that being Jewish was fun. It gave me my foundation for loving being Jewish.” She attended Ramah Canada as a camper, counselor and rosh eidah from 1984-94, with a one-year stop in the middle in Conover, she said. Inspired by the friends she’d made on Seminar and at the University of Michigan — friends like David Kushnir — she came to work on staff as a Machon counselor at Wisconsin.
Steve is a Chicago native and alumnus of Solomon Schechter
Day School of Metropolitan Chicago (where their kids are now students). He joined the National Young Leadership Cabinet (NYLC), chaired NYLC's annual campaign and completed a 2-year term as JUF's (Jewish United Fund of Metropolitan Chicago) Overall Planning and Allocations Chair.
Both Sheri and Steve were committed to Jewish communal leadership and philanthropy following the examples set by their parents. Fate ultimately brought them together in Cabinet, where they met, wed and started their family by the time they’d concluded the six-year leadership development program.
A passionate advocate and true believer in the mission of Jewish summer camp, Sheri knew one thing with complete certainty: She wanted their children to attend summer camp together. She remembered the power and beauty of growing up at Ramah Canada with her sister and wanted that gift for Jordyn and Jake. Organized and endlessly creative, in 2019, Sheri did her homework, researching more than a half dozen Jewish summer camps around the Midwest.
When camps resumed (mostly) normal operations in 2021, midpandemic, the Greenbaums at first chose a different camp
for Jordyn. After one summer, however, the family felt something was missing. Jordyn was looking for more sports opportunities and a deeper connection.
“She got in the car one day after school and said, ‘Can I go to Ramah?’” Sheri recalled, noting the influence and advocacy of Jordyn’s close friends at Schechter and Moriah Congregation. By then, Jake was old enough to go to overnight camp himself. “I called Jacob Cytryn, who had stayed in touch,” Sheri said. The director answered the family’s questions, and soon both kids were enrolled for Kayitz 2022 — Jordyn for four weeks in Halutzim, and Jake for two in Kochavim. Ramah was a perfect fit.
Both kids loved the non-stop sports and activities, and the immersion in Jewish life. The icing on the cake was getting to share it with each other. “The following summer, Jordyn came for the full eight weeks. When Jake left after four weeks, they were both sad to be apart,” Sheri continued. “They LOVE being up here together. … Every picture we see of them, they’re hugging each other, they’re always at kikar dancing together. They sit together at Shabbat, they go on Shabbat walks.” Even during the
year, Jake and Jordyn can’t stop talking about camp.
On transitioning from Ramah alumni to parents, Sheri said, laughing: “I still can’t believe I’m on that side of the bus! Being on the bus is so much better! We’re so fortunate to visit camp and volunteer, though. I still get goosebumps when I hear Havdalah at camp. It’s about feeling good about the future of Judaism, which is hard to feel good about sometimes these days.
“I am so proud that we have Ramah kids," she added. “It is a network that is created for you for life. You even meet [Ramahniks] all over the world! … I’m beyond grateful that our children get to have the experience of Ramah, and I’m proud that we are raising kids [for whom] a place like Ramah feels like the right fit for them.”
An affordable-housing developer focused on senior housing throughout the country and a retired corporate event planner (and full-time volunteer), respectively, Steve and Sheri feel obligated and privileged to give back and sustain their Jewish communities, from Moriah and JUF, to Solomon Schechter Day School and Ramah. In weighing their philanthropic priorities and as they raise their family’s next generation of Ramahniks, it became clear they wanted to support Ramah Wisconsin — especially as the organization raised funds to renew and reimagine the camp’s central sports courts in 2024.
With both their kids being avid athletes, the couple made a naming gift for the camp’s beloved basketball courts, remodeled this
past year for the first time in a quarter century. “Keeping these community facilities relevant is what will drive enrollment, whether it’s the renovation we helped oversee at Schechter or the sport courts here at Ramah. They are the key to attracting the future,” Sheri said.
“We are inspired by other people’s giving. By leaning into our philanthropy, we are hoping that in some way, we can also inspire others,” Steve added. “Ramah is unapologetically joyful Judaism, and it’s beautiful.”
The Greenbaums are grateful to reconnect with Ramah Wisconsin as alumni and enthusiastic about sharing the experience with their children. And they’re passionate about spreading the word, encouraging more alumni to enroll their own children for Kayitz 2025 and beyond. During one of the most daunting and discouraging times for American Jews and klal Yisrael, they said, Ramah offers hope for today — and the future.
“So many people think a rich life is directly correlated to the tangible items you may have in your life,” Sheri said. “Ramah is the intangible that enriches your life. It enriches your life, your child’s life, your family’s life. We’re grateful to be a Ramah family, and we’re so happy our children have found a summer home here.”
RAMAH CONNECT
Ramah Connect is your gateway to vintage camp photos and memories. It’s also great for professional networking across the vast Ramah Wisconsin alumni base and for reconnecting with old friends through the alumni directory. Join today to stay connected at ramahconnect.com or by downloading the Ramah Connect app.
Here’s an update from around the Ramah community.
ENGAGEMENTS BIRTHS
Stephanie Brill (Nivo 2010) and Shane Kovalsky
Rami Eilian (Nivo 2011) and Rachel Gordon
Joe Cohen (Nivo 2013) and Amy Nelson
Samantha Brody (Nivo 2017) and Eitan Marks
Sam Sussman (Staff 2017-2018) and Gail Schneiderman
MARRIAGES
Sarah Galante (Nivo 2006) and Jess Kornick
Eliana Horwitz (Nivo 2010) and Aaron Sklar (Nivo 2009)
Dani Segelbaum (Nivo 2010) and Scott Reibstein
Rachel Zeman (Nivo 2010) and Charlie Felsenthal
Annie Glasser (Former Program Director) and Steven Sacks (Nivo 2011)
Abbie Sugar (Nivo 2011) and Sam Fishman
MARRIAGES
Anna Glassman-Kaufman (Nivo 2012) and Zander Feinberg
David Selis (Nivo 2012) and Elior Garfinkel
Ari Spellman (Nivo 2012) and Dani Lewites
BIRTHS
Amanda and Benji Shyman (Nivo 1998) – Grayson
Michelle and Roger Barak (Nivo 2001) – Jacob Dov Rafael
Molly Hoffman (Nivo 2001) and Yael Zinkow (Nivo 2006) –Harrison Bo
Adi and Brian Finkel (Nivo 2003) – Dotan
Dr. Becky (Wolf) (Nivo 2004) and Max Jacobson – Simon Walker
Rita (Botbol) (Nivo 2005) and Josh Weintraub (Nivo 2006) –Gabriel Matan
Heather and Rabbi Jeremy Fineberg (Nivo 2005) – Amitai
Rafael
Stephannie and Eddie Gandelman (Nivo 2005) – Chloe Jane and Naomi Malka
Ariella Rotenberg (Nivo 2006) and Tyler Logigian – Eliana Rose
Abigal Russo (Nivo 2005) and Adam Wheeler – Sadie Wheeler
Rachel Renz and Jacob Slutsky (Nivo 2005) – Tzipporah Behira
Lauren (Vandersluis) (Nivo 2005) and Scott Kaplan – Max Zander
Dr. Lilli Flink (Nivo 2006) and Ariel Platt – Eden Tamar
Dr. Gila Hoffman (Nivo 2006) and Asaf Ben-Gai - Caleb
Rabbi Sofia Zway and Rabbi Brett Kopin (Nivo 2007) – Dahlia Meira
Arielle Werner (Nivo 2007) and Yaniv Wolf – Zoe Eliana
BIRTHS
Shelby (Cooper) (Nivo 2009) and Michael Fishman (Nivo 2010) –Noah Jack
Lauren Israel and Hersh Perlmutter (Nivo 2009) – Avital
Adam Rudolph (Nivo 2009) and Joseph Shemaria – Rafael
Yari and Kevin Rahmanim (Nivo 2010) – Leor
Alicia Vinocur (Former Registrar) and Ben Fooden – Ella Shayna
In Memory of Seth Sugar (Nivo 2018)
As our memories of Seth continue to live on, his friends and family will be memorializing him on the Nivonim walkway in summer 2025 with a dedicated paver in addition to other meaningful ways to forever remember Seth and the elements of camp that were most important to him.
Please send life cycle updates and professional announcements to alumni@ ramahwisconsin.com and check out alumni. ramahwisconsin.com for an alumni directory, update form, new baby onesie form and more.
GENERAL UPDATES
Marty Swaden (1960s Camper) is a retired family law litigator, now a Family Law Alternative Dispute Resolution professional. Marion Bernstein (1960s Camper) welcomed her first granddaughter, Charlotte, in Brussels, Belgium.
Dr. Alan Garber (Nivo 1971) was named Harvard President.
Faye Pous (Nivo 1973) is currently a prosecutor for the Fulton County District Attorney’s Office.
Carol Ann Gershuny Schwartz (Nivo 1976) became the National President & Global Chair of Hadassah in January.
Dr. Menachem (Michael) Klein (Nivo 1978) is currently the Chief, Division of Nephrology & Medical Director, Inpatient Dialysis Services at Westchester Medical Center in Valhalla, New York.
Jonathan Mussman (Nivo 1985) was named as part of the Variety Ten recognizing the top Hollywood Leaders & Innovators in Film & TV Production.
Former Atzmayim and Tikvah Participants were featured in an article about their recent Birthright Israel Trip.
Dr. Daniel Olson (Nivo 2006) was named Assistant National Director of the National Ramah Commision.
Adam Parritz (Nivo 2008) was named Director of Strategic Office Operator Services at Glenstar.
Molly Appel (Nivo 2017) joined the Audit and Assurance team at Deloitte in Chicago.
Scott Topal (Director of Operations), Sarah Spellman (Nivo 2010), Lauren (Vandersluis) Kaplan (Nivo 2005), Alan Bukingolts (Nivo 2007), and Jordy Shapiro (Nivo 2009) were named to the Jewish United Fund of Chicago’s 36 Under 36 honorees.
Our Sincere Condolences
To the family of Harriet Elazar (First Decade Camper) who passed away in September 2024.
To the family of Lawrence Cohen (Nivo 1970) who passed away in June 2024.
To the family of Biruk Silvers (Nivo 2024) who passed away in November 2024.
WEAR YOUR CAMP RAMAH T-SHIRT…
By Shira Goldman, Nivo 1992
We packed light, as we heard it was going to be a sweltering summer. We didn’t want to bother checking luggage, so we packed a small pack with just the essentials: a few t-shirts, some shorts and a good pair of shoes. While our younger children were off to spend their summer at Camp Ramah in Wisconsin, my husband (Daniel Goldman, Nivo 1994) and I (Nivo 1992), decided to spend 12 days volunteering in Israel. Until this year, neither of us had been to Israel since the 1990’s. We had been caughtup in the demands of raising three kids, while balancing work responsibilities and 30 years had somehow slipped by.
After October 7th, we both realized that reconnecting to Israel needed to be on our radar. With the assistance of a newlycreated Facebook group, “Swords of Iron Volunteers”, I started noticing daily messages from Israelis in need of help. Each day, there seemed to be endless requests from moshavs that were in urgent need of volunteers to help save an abandoned harvest. While neither of us had much agriculture experience, we figured we could pick-up the skills quickly. Danny and I landed in Tel Aviv with a blank itinerary. We put together a make-shift schedule based on the daily messages that were posted on the Facebook
group. Each morning, we put on our t-shirts, hopped on the 6 am bus from Dizengoff Square and headed to farms in the north and south. After a few days of weeding potatoes and picking raspberries, we heard there was a bus stop in the south (called Shuva Junction) that was looking for volunteers to bring supplies and cook meals for the incoming IDF soldiers passing in and out of Gaza. That particular day, Danny wore his bright green Ramah Wisconsin T-shirt.
We rented a car, picked up supplies, and drove to Shuva Junction, where we spent the day cooking food, washing dishes and greeting soldiers that were coming in for a quick lunch. One of the soldiers, named Maor, was one of the commanders of the Netzarim corridor. He noticed Danny’s Camp Ramah t-shirt and we struck up a conversation. He mentioned that his daughter, age 11, had just gone to an American summer camp in Wisconsin, which turned out to be Camp Ramah in Wisconsin. After a few minutes, we quickly realized that our children were the same age, at the same camp and were likely in the same eidah (age group). We both took out our phones, scrolled through our Campanion App and saw our smiling kids TOGETHER. What are the odds? While we clearly had different day
jobs and very different realities, at that moment, we were simply Ramah parents, each relishing the photos of our children and hoping they were enjoying camp. Maor only had a few minutes before taking his unit back into Gaza. He quickly snapped a photo of Danny’s business card and we parted ways.
As we drove back to our comfortable Airbnb in Tel Aviv, Maor drove his battalion back into Gaza. I hoped the world would be gentle to him. While Danny drove the rental car, I quietly wondered whether Maor would be there to help unpack his daughter's duffel bag, hear stories of her Rikudiya dance or hear about kabbalat shabbat overlooking Lake Buckatabon. The contrast between the raging war overhead and the serene kikar sunsets gave me pause.
Fast forward a few weeks later. Danny and I returned to the US, our kids returned home from camp and we were settling back into routines. One day in mid-August, Danny received a random inquiry on his business website from an Israeli woman. She introduced herself and wondered if we had met her
husband, Maor? Turns out, while Maor was in Gaza, his wife and daughters were able to travel to Minneapolis for a few weeks of respite from the war. They stayed with another Ramah family, Leigh Abrams Waterman (Nivo 1999), who worked with Jacob Cytryn to help get Maor’s daughter (Avigal) to camp. Maor had taken a screenshot of Danny’s business card, texted it to his wife in Minneapolis and the connection was made.
A few days later, Maor and his entire family were reunited in Minneapolis. Since they were relatively close by, they drove to Madison for a visit. We shared a meal, traded stories and discussed our vastly different experiences since 10/7. Turns out, our Halutzim campers also shared a birthday so we made
the evening into a birthday celebration.
A few weeks later, our family of five, took a short end-of-summer road trip to Asheville, North Carolina. Maor and his family happened to be in the area. So all 10 of us (4 adults + 6 kids), spent a few days together in North Carolina. In one sense, we were strangers. In another sense, we are mishpacha (family). What binds us together is not our geographical location, politics or even religious observances. We are bound together by our connection to Camp Ramah and the need for Jews across the globe to support each other through these tumultuous times.
Our family is grateful that the Ramah movement prioritized bringing Israeli campers and staff into the fold of our camp
ALUMNI STORY
community. The program was a profoundly meaningful experience for American kids, including our family. The bond that blossomed over the course of Kayitz 2024, is the gift that keeps on giving.
This year, more than ever, we have realized the importance of bridging Israeli and American Jews. In a world that has not been gentle, we need each other in unforeseen ways.
So, the next time you are packing luggage for an upcoming trip, remember to pack your Camp Ramah t-shirt. You never know where it may lead.
JON MUSSMAN, PRODUCER
Jon Mussman is an Executive Producer at Netflix. The first production hire to lead Netflix into the realm of original programming, Jon has produced hundreds of Netflix titles, including the Wet Hot American Summer series, inspired by his time at camp.
Camper experience:
Jon was a CRW camper in the 80s. He didn’t make it for every summer, but made sure to be there for Nivonim 1985.
Acting in the Ramah Theater:
Jon recalled playing the Butler in Annie…he even remembers some of his lines in Hebrew! He’s glad to hear the Bet Am floor has been renovated since he was last at camp.
How Jon’s camp experience has impacted his professional journey: “Camp is part of my DNA. It was just the most impactful — it taught me leadership, how to speak and address people, not be shy in front of a group of people. All the lessons camp teaches —the independence contributed to success.”
Favorite camp meal: Grilled cheese and tomato soup
Favorite activity at camp: WRMH Radio Station — “The ability to take nothing from paper and turn it into a show. It was like I was a mini celebrity with my own radio show. That had a huge impact on me, I became obsessed. I would plan for shows even in the off-season.”
Favorite camp memories: Kabbalat Shabbat near the lake, the Ohel Yitzchak synagogue, Kikar Dancing
FROM TRADITION SOUP TO RESTAURATEUR
Q & A with Sasha Chack, Nivo 2000
What years were you at camp?
Machon 1999, Nivo 2000, Camp Ramah in Wisconsin Rosh Video 2003, Ramah Day Camp Staff 2005, Camp Ramah in Wisconsin Chef 2016-2018
What is one (or more) of your favorite camp memories?
One that I retell often is that one day in Machon, after a heavy rain, my friends and I discovered that the rain had created small rivers and pools under the Machon cabins leading down to the lake. We decided to use broken mops and brooms to carve the soft dirt into deeper paths for the running water. Once the water from the rain had stopped, we wanted to keep playing, so we opened up a water spigot at the top of the hill. We were having fun
when we realized the water was steaming — we were draining all the hot water for all the cabins on The Point. Just as we noticed that, Rabbi Soloff comes walking onto The Point, along with the National Ramah Director and an insurance agent. They noticed us under the cabin, basically eroding the dirt around the cinder blocks that support the entire structure from tumbling down the hill into the lake. Soloff was very quiet but furious, and he knew our punishment immediately — we were forced to miss the Neshama Carlebach concert that night.
What was your favorite meal at camp?
A chicken flavored Tradition Soup on the Sifriyah mirpeset (porch of the library) at 5 in the morning
What are you doing now in your professional life?
I own Cold Smoke Bagels, a Jewish Lox & Bagel concept in the Louisville, KY.
How did camp contribute to where you are in your life now, both personally and professionally?
As a camper, camp gives you your first jobs, first sense of responsibility. I was in charge of tech crew for our play in Nivo and I remember the sense of responsibility that sets you up for professional life down the road. Also, I met my wife working at Ramah Day Camp, so that was a large contribution to my personal life.
What are some lessons you learned at camp that still impact you today?
Definitely lessons in living as a Jewish person on a daily basis and making Jewish community a priority in my life.
If you could have one more day as a camper at camp, what would you do?
I would swim in the lake at least once.
Any advice for our younger alumni who are just starting out? Stay in touch with camp friends — they'll be the best friends of your life.
Create Your Legacy
The time is never better than right now to ensure that Ramah Wisconsin is strong and vibrant today and long into the future. You can help with this undertaking by using your IRA as a contribution source to either make outright tax-free contributions or create lifetime income gifts from an IRA gift supporting camp’s needs to thrive for generations of Ramahniks yet to come. If you have an IRA, the IRS mandates that you withdraw funds when you turn 73. These withdrawals are called Required Minimum Distributions (RMD). Instead of taking the RMD from the IRA, tell your IRA provider to send it to Camp Ramah in Wisconsin. Your gift will not count as income, potentially saving thousands of dollars in higher taxes while fulfilling your RMD obligation. This strategy is called Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD). The maximum contribution allowed in 2024 is $105,000 per person.
Are you ready for another way to invest in Ramah’s future?
We’re excited to bring you a new tool to help you do just that!
FreeWill is a free, online willwriting tool, and our new partner for growing our Legacy Society. Estate planning is an essential act of personal and financial empowerment, enabling you to protect your loved ones and cherished causes, like Camp Ramah in Wisconsin.
Whether you make your will online using the FreeWill tool or with your attorney, we hope you’ll consider including a legacy gift to support Camp Ramah. Your generosity will help sustain the programs, scholarships, and opportunities that make Ramah a place where campers can live and learn Judaism through fun, discovery, and friendship. By including a gift, you will ensure that future campers experience the magic of Ramah — just as countless generations have before since we first opened
our gates on the shores of Lake Buckatabon in 1947.
Scan the QR code to learn more about endowment and legacy giving, view lists of Camp Ramah in Wisconsin’s named endowments and Legacy Society members, and learn more about FreeWill.
If you’ve already included Camp Ramah in your will, please let us know so we can invite you to the Ramah Wisconsin Legacy Society!
To learn more, contact Sam Caplan, Chief Development Officer at 312-690-8332 or scaplan@ramahwisconsin.com
Visit Camp in 2025!
Camp Reunions
As we work to catch up on reunions missed due to COVID — and as we transition from a 25- to a 20-year model in order to bring our alumni back to camp sooner — we are thrilled to welcome these eidot for reunions in 2025.
• Nivonim 2001: July 17–20
• Nivonim 2004: July 24–27
• Nivonim 1970: TBD
• Nivonim 1975: TBD
Questions?
Email alumni@ ramahwisconsin.com for additional info
Check out these other ways to visit camp in 2025: Alumni Camp: August 8–11
Alumni 21+ and their guests are invited for a fun weekend at camp after the regular camp session closes. Experience a Ramah Shabbat and connect with camp friends!
Family Camp: August 13–17
Family Camp offers an opportunity to experience the mage of Camp Ramah in Wisconsin together, as a family. Our five-day allinclusive experience at camp is filled with sports, art, singing around the campfire and so much more!
DIY Visits
Email alumni@ramahwisconsin.com to plan your trip visit to Conover.
From Talia Derman, Director
Finding Light in the Darkness: The Ramah Day Camp Community Shines Bright
In a world that can often feel overshadowed by challenges and uncertainty — from the war in Israel to antisemitism on college campuses and beyond — Ramah Day Camp stands as a beacon of hope and positivity in the Chicagoland area for our youngest campers and their families. This summer, the camp community came together to create an environment filled with joy, friendship, inclusion and connection— transformative experiences that remind us of the light we can bring to one another.
Throughout the season, campers and staff exemplified kindness and support, lifting each other up during moments of need. From shared laughter and excitement on our new climbing tower to communal celebrations of our heritage during tefillah (prayers) and on Yom Yisrael (Israel Day), these interactions have woven a vibrant tapestry of love and belonging that defines the Ramah experience.
As we say in tefillot (prayers) each day at camp: Or chadash al Tzion ta-ir, v’nizkeh chulanu m’heira l’oro. Baruch atah Adonai, yotzer ham’orot. Shine a new light on Zion, and may we all soon be worthy
to share its light. Blessed are you, creator of the lights. After singing this beautiful prayer, we ask campers why is light important? What can they do to be a light? How can they share their light with others?
And as we have seen, both the impact of being a light and the impact of camp extends far beyond the summer months. Camp nurtures resilience and instills a sense of Jewish identity and pride, equipping campers with the tools to face the world with confidence and compassion. As friendships blossom and memories are made, the campers’ internal lights and the spirit of Ramah shine brightly, illuminating even the darkest days.
As we transition into the months ahead, the Ramah community will continue to carry this light forward. We are proud to offer touch points throughout the winter and spring months (check our monthly e-newsletters for details!) providing opportunities for campers and their families to connect and support each other. By showing up for one another, we can collectively create a positive ripple effect that extends far beyond our campgrounds.
Our teams at Ramah Day Camp and Camp Ramah in Wisconsin believe that together, we have the power to shine brightly in a world that needs it now more than ever. Let us embrace this commitment to kindness and community as we continue our journey together throughout the year and of course, during the summer months, to be a light in the darkness.
The Fun Never Stops! SUMMER 2025 CALENDAR
CHOICE | FLEXIBILITY | FUN
FULL SEASON SESSION
Entering Grades 4 – 11
Monday, June 16 – Thursday, August 7*
*New Session Flexibility: Our full-season experience provides unparalleled opportunities for individual growth, group bonding, and identity formation. We are now offering the opportunity to enroll for a modified session length at the time of enrollment (including 7-week and 6-week options).
FULL SEASON VISITORS DAYS: Sunday, July 13 & Monday, July 14
FIRST & SECOND SESSIONS
Entering Grades 4, 5 & 6
Monday, June 16 – Thursday, July 10 Monday, July 14 – Thursday, August 7
RUACH RAMAH
Entering Grades 3, 4 & 5
1 Week: Monday, June 16 – Sunday, June 22
2 Weeks: Monday, June 16 – Sunday, June 29 &
1 Week: Monday, July 27 – Sunday, August 3
1.5 Weeks: Monday, July 27 – Thursday, August 7 ENROLLMENT NOW OPEN!
More information: ramahwisconsin.com/dates-rates