Our Camp Ramah - Winter 2023

RAMAH – NOW MORE THAN EVER!

Our Camp Ramah ‫מחננו רמה‬ The Camp Ramah in Wisconsin Magazine WINTER 2023

This newsletter, celebrating our 75th anniversary celebration and the 2023 summer at Camp Ramah in Wisconsin and Ramah Day Camp in Chicagoland, was ready to hit the press when our world was shaken to its core by the attack in Israel on October 7. Fully aware that the current situation for Jews throughout the world has been fundamentally altered in the succeeding weeks, we share this newsletter virtually as initially intended, recognizing that subsequent issues of Machanenu will continue to tell the story of our camps, our people (Ramahniks!), and how inextricably bound up we are with the State of Israel (Medinat Yisrael) and the entirety of the Jewish people (Am Yisrael), wherever they find themselves.

May we know peace and stability soon, in Israel and throughout the world. And may Ramah, now more than ever, anchor us to each other, to our past, and to a vibrant and proud future.

Dear Friends,

l General of Israel to the Midwest, spoke At our 75th Anniversary Celebration in March, Yinam Cohen, the Consu about visiting his children at Ramah Wisconsin: ed everything I ever “Last summer, I arrived at Ramah for the first time. And that chang on Lake Buckatabon, thought about the word CAMP. It’s not only the spectacular setting surround you once which literally took my breath away, but the positive energies that connected to their best you step in. The kids seem to be happy in the purest way, getting selves, energetic and relaxed at the same time.

Yes, to simply look Ramah gives the kids a chance to connect in the old-fashioned way.

— using a pencil their friends in the eyes and talk. No screens attached. And even better ant thing for me, and paper to write letters! How refreshing is that! But the most import and Israel are woven both as a father and as Israel’s representative, is the way Judaism way. Ramah makes into the daily life of the camp, in the most natural and unimposing Israel and Judaism simply cool and fun!

h, from Israeli and American Jewish From lakeside Shabbat services to the Hebrew songs of the Zimriya old Hebrew words spiced up with an madrichim (counselors) serving as inspiring role models, to the funny American accent, like: tzrif, chadar and kikar. of my kids got stronger in north Wisconsin, I was amazed to see how the Jewish Identity and the Israel bond and with growing challenges for our kids of all places. Especially now, when antisemitism rears its ugly head, , proud, and inclusive Jewish identity on college campuses, Ramah plays a crucial role in building a strong for the next generation.”

celebration. When we visited camp this Yinam’s perspective touched the hearts of everyone attending the of camp in a natural way. We saw hundreds summer, we also saw Judaism and Israel woven into the daily life staff. of kids having the time of their lives, supported by our phenomenal we continue to strengthen a camp community As we look to Ramah’s future, your support is critical as together inclusive Jewish identity. that is based on fun and friendship and builds strong, proud, and using the enclosed Please consider making an annual fund or scholarship gift today envelope or online at ramahwisconsin.com/donate.

Todah Rabbah!

Marc Sacks

Board President

David Kushnir

Immediate Past Board President

Our Camp Ramah ‫מחננו רמה‬

The Camp Ramah in Wisconsin Magazine WINTER 2023

IN THIS ISSUE Reflections on the 2023 Season.................................................................4 What a 75th Birthday Party!.........................................................................6

by Jacob Cytryn, Executive Director A Tremendous Success...............................................................................7

by David Kushnir, Past President Our 75th Anniversary Celebration: A Spectacular Evening of Joy & Generosity...............................................8 The Best Summer Camp Courts Anywhere..............................................10 Donor Recognition......................................................................................12 In Memoriam Profile: Sam Zell..................................................................17 Ramah Connect Alumni Updates..............................................................18 Alumni Profile Beni Gliksberg (Nivo ’07)......................................................................21 Alumni Profile Shari Dollinger (Nivo ’93)......................................................................22 Legacy Story Joseph and Belle Braun (z”l)................................................................24 Scan QR codes throughout this issue for videos and bonus content!

Our Israel Response...................................................................................25 Visit Camp in 2024!....................................................................................26 Exciting Announcements for Summer 2024............................................26 Ramah Day Camp Update

by Talia Derman, Director, Ramah Day Camp.......................................27

New mailing address?

Please send updates to info@ramahwisconsin.com.

The Fun Never Stops!

2024 Dates & Rates..............................................................................28

Check out alumni.ramahwisconsin.com for an alumni directory, update form, new baby onesie form and more.

Camp Ramah in Wisconsin | Ramah Day Camp

Questions about material in this magazine?

Contact magazine@ramahwisconsin.com or 312-606-9316.

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ramahwisconsin.com | ramahday.com | 312-606-9316 EST

WELCOME TO CAMP RAMAH!

1947

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REFLECTIONS ON THE

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2023 SEASON This summer, over 500 campers enjoyed exciting, upgraded facilities and activities.

H

ave you heard of Hava NaGlida / ‫ ?הבה נגלידה‬New this summer, Hava NaGlida is an energized song session led by our music staff following dinner. The entire camp gathers together in one of the dining rooms and sings and dances while lyrics to favorite Hebrew songs are projected on a screen. The program ends with a glida (ice cream) buffet complete with toppings.

This combination of fun and friendship and vibrant Jewish living is at the core of the Ramah expererience. This summer over 500 campers enjoyed exciting, upgraded facilities and activities — the Merkaz Tarbut Arts and Outdoor Performance Center (new in 2021), the ninja-style obstacle course, trail bikes, speed boats and water tubing program (new in 2022), and the basketball, tennis/pickleball, and volleyball courts and magnificent playscape (brand new!).

Campwide events continue to be a highlight with sky-high ruach (spirit) and energy at the Zimriyah (song) and Rikudiah (dance) festivals, Yom Sport competitions and Broadway musicals performed in Hebrew. A new favorite is the campwide Lip Sync contest! Kabbalat Shabbat, when the entire camp gathers by the lake on Friday evening, is the spiritual highpoint of the week.

Our talented staff come to us from across North America and Israel and from the Jewish communities in Uganda, Hungary, South Africa, and Uruguay. Members of our Israeli mishlachat live in every camper cabin and work as counselors, activity leaders, and teachers. Through their personal stories our camp community forms new connections to Israel and the people who live there.

Once again, the gorgeous Northwoods setting and the fun-filled activities led by our outstanding staff combine to create the immersive Jewish living that has been the hallmark of Ramah Wisconsin for 76 seasons.

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From Jacob Cytryn, Executive Director

W

hat a 75th birthday party! Sunday evening March 26th was magical: joined by over six hundred friends of Ramah (about two-thirds in the room and the rest watching on livestream) we celebrated all that we love about Ramah. A dinner buffet including some upgraded camp favorites like tomato soup and grilled cheese gave people an opportunity to reconnect and schmooze; a core program, with memorable highlights like a 75th anniversary retrospective video filled with archival footage, a magnificent reflection on the power of Ramah to the American Jewish Community by Israel Consul-General to the Midwest Yinam Cohen, and an inspired fundraising effort that brought in over $110,000; and what was scheduled to be an hour long dessert buffet for more schmoozing that, for a few tables worth of hardy alumni, turned into a seemingly never-ending opportunity to share stories from camp, catch up on friends’ current lives, and to laugh and laugh that stretched close to midnight as the party shut down around us. Throughout the evening we saw Ramahniks participating in axe throwing and cornhole, bidding on a variety of items in a silent auction, browsing through pictures and memory books that date back to the first years of camp, and enjoying the dulcet tones, with a heaping side of nostalgia, of legendary Ramah singer-songwriters Brian Gelfand and Matt Kalin.

Congregation Beth Shalom in Northbrook, Illinois, was a most gracious host, and everyone, from former director Rabbi Burt Cohen (1960-1974) and ten or so contemporaries from camp in the ‘40s, to the youngest alumni in the room who proudly held the himnon (camp anthem) at the end of the night, were flying high with love for camp, and each other.

In my remarks that night I shared some thoughts on the founders of camp — the visionary lay leaders, Rabbis, educators, and camper parents who created this phenomenal experiment in the immediate aftermath of the Holocaust and World War II. I truly believe that they could never have imagined what we’ve created, what their camp would look like

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seventy-five years later.

Looking ahead, however, we have a pretty great sense of what our camp will look like when a future generation gathers to celebrate our 150th birthday: We will remain on the leading edge of transforming contemporary Judaism and ever-developing the next generation of American and Israeli Jews while simultaneously rolling with history’s proverbial punches: the pandemics, demographic shifts, political turns, and revolutionary movements that will sweep through our world, and our children’s, and our grandchildren’s, and our great-grandchildren’s.

This is what Camp Ramah in Wisconsin does, yearin and year-out, decade after decade, and we have a track record of doing it as well as anybody else, in partnership with many others, as we create a community at Ramah and, always more importantly, create living communities outside of camp.

By the time this issue goes to print and ends up in front of you, summer will feel distant. The memories and reflections on time in Conover seem far away, but in fact we will be well into preparing for the 2024 summer. A classic Ramah experience that has changed preciously little since 1947: bringing young people together to form transformative and lifelong friendships in the midst of an immersive and exuberant Jewish community. Ultimately, that is what we celebrated at our big birthday party in the spring — the timelessness and astounding efficacy of a seemingly simple formula. In the same way that we celebrated our first decade alumni at our 75th, I know that campers from this summer will proudly attend, and be feted, their memories and legacy in 2097.

L’chaim!

From David Kushnir, Immediate Past Board President

O

ur 75th anniversary celebration was a tremendous success. Yes, we had a great turnout, both in person at Congregation Beth Shalom in Northbrook, Illinois, and with people tuning in online from all over the globe. And yes, we raised significant dollars for much needed scholarships. But for many of us, it was simply a heartwarming reminder of how much we really love camp. Seeing old friends brought back incredible memories of those shared experiences and fun times together.

Those in attendance who never went to Ramah got a glimpse into the magic and sense of pride that we share for our beloved institution. They felt the energy and better understood how deep those emotions run and how strong those bonds become. An event like this allows us to expand our Ramah network and welcome in new families. It also gives us the time to reflect on the tremendous impact that camp had on us and continues to have on our current campers and staff.

This party was also a great opportunity to thank you, our community and friends, for your unwavering support. We have gone through some challenging times and have now emerged stronger than ever as a result of your commitment. The return on your investment was

on full display at the event — joyous friends reminiscing about our youth and attributing personal and professional successes to time spent in our camps.

We will continue to produce confident, sensitive, Jewishly grounded leaders that our world needs.

Sadly, just four days after our camp celebration, my father passed away. It was so strange to return to Beth Shalom a week after the party, but this time it was to say Kaddish. But there was something so comforting in having my Ramah friends, some of whom I met in Solelim (age 12), able to celebrate with me at the 75th event and then mourn with me at the Shivah.

My father loved camp, but never attended Jewish overnight camp himself. While the whole notion of going away for the summer was foreign to him, he saw the value early on for his children, especially in the opportunity camp provides to build one’s character.

My Dad saw the benefit of competitive sports, so long as it was accompanied with good sportsmanship. He appreciated the informal Jewish education, so long as it was taught with an open mind. He believed in the importance of being a good and loyal friend, no matter who ends up in your cabin. He knew these character building traits were part of the Ramah culture.

As my term as President ended this past September, I share the lesson that my father modeled for me in that famous line from Pirkei Avot — “It is not your duty to finish the work, but neither are you at liberty to neglect it.” My father was a distinguished lay leader and believed we all have the opportunity to contribute to the causes we hold dear — whether that is through our work, our wealth or our wisdom. I encourage all us to pursue those opportunities and to build on the incredible support you are providing. Together, we will help our Ramah camps continue to thrive for the next 75 years.

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CAMP RAMAH IN WISCONSIN’S 75 TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

A Spectacular Evening of Joy and Generosity O

n March 26, 2023, the camp community came together for an electrifying 75th-anniversary celebration that left attendees brimming with joy and a deep sense of camp nostalgia. The event was a huge success, attracting 617 members of the Ramah Wisconsin community who gathered to honor the history and profound impact of the camp’s first 75 seasons. With the support of 19 event sponsors, the evening surpassed all expectations.

The sounds of Ramah filled the air, with live performances by former camp musicians Brian Gelfand and Matt Kalin. A greatest hits soundtrack of Ramah Wisconsin in the 1980’s-2000’s was performed live throughout the night with these two musical guests of honor.

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One highlight of the evening was the exhilarating paddle raise, where both in-person and virtual attendees raised their “paddles” in a spirited moment of tzedakah, resulting in over $110,000 raised for camper scholarships. The atmosphere was moving as each paddle raised signified a resounding commitment to the camp’s future and the transformative experiences Ramah provides. Adding to the excitement, the auction portion of the event

was a thrilling affair. Attendees vied for 77 unique and coveted items the event auction committee carefully curated.

Attendees reveled in the exciting atmosphere long into the night. The fusion of in-person and virtual elements delivered a truly immersive experience.

The echoes of laughter, the glow of shared memories, and the unmistakable atmosphere of camaraderie served as a powerful reminder that Camp Ramah in Wisconsin is a place where lifelong bonds are forged, and transformative experiences await.

As the formal program ended, everyone joined together in a rendition of Himnon Ramah, the camp anthem with the actual banner on display at the front of the room. As the curtain fell on this extraordinary evening, the legacy of Camp Ramah in Wisconsin shone even brighter. The 75th anniversary celebration left an indelible mark on the hearts and minds of all who experienced it, both in person and virtually and it will be cherished as an unforgettable milestone in the camp’s storied history.

Onward to the next 75 years!

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THE BEST SUMMER CAMP COURTS ANYWHERE W

e are thrilled to have upgraded and expanded our sports courts last season. The new state-of-theart design of four basketball courts includes the Rabbi Sam Fraint z”l Championship Court complete with bleachers and an electronic scoreboard, and a junior court for our youngest campers with adjustable hoop heights.

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Additionally, the project features five tennis courts with playable lines for pickleball. We’ve also added in lots of spectator seating and group gathering space throughout the campus so everyone can feel a part of the action whether on or off the court.

Integral to this broader central sports campus is an incredible climbing playscape that was equally frequented last season by both our youngest and oldest campers.

The sports campus renovation was supported in part by a Yashar Initiative grant, generously funded by the Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation and coordinated by the Foundation for Jewish Camp.

Through this grant and the incredible support of our community we are proud to have built a sports campus with a focus on accessibility and inclusion.

1988 & 1989 Doubles Tournament Champions Heath Cohen and Steven Altschul (both Nivo ’89) pictured with the ball drill machine they donated to Camp for use on the tennis courts in the new sports campus.

Please click on the QR code or visit ramahwisconsin. com/sports-courtscampaign for details on the project including crowdfunding projects and naming opportunities still available.

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Donor Recognition ◊ Legacy Society member

* Camp Ramah in Wisconsin Va’ad committee member

Director’s Circle

** my.ramahwisconsin.com peer-to-peer fundraising campaign

Northwoods

Michele Bresler and Barry Goldberg

$10,000 and above

Diane* and Shai Halivni ◊

2022 Alumni Impact Campaign (Nivo 1994-2015)**

Dr. Wendy and Dr. Howard Bach ◊

Hilco Real Estate, LLC

National Ramah Commission

Julie Strauss and Joel Brown*◊

Mindy and Daniel Ribnick ◊

Karen and Ethan Budin

Matthew Zell Family Foundation

Dr. Arthur Elstein ◊

$100,000 and above

President’s Circle $50,000 and above

Mary and Alan Becker

Tamar Green and Ben Hofkin* ◊ Ann and Mike Hofkin Neera* and Michael Kaufman ◊

Dr. Rebecca and Daniel* Blumenthal

Ally and Jordan* Kirshenbaum

Crown Family

Dr. Lena and David* Kushnir ◊

Harold Grinspoon Foundation

JoEllen and Robert Lidov

Nina and Arnie* Harris ◊

Stacy Palestrant and Tomer Rothschild*

Susan and Marc* Sacks ◊

Rosh Aidah

$25,000 and above Charles & M.R. Shapiro Foundation, Inc. Foundation for Jewish Camp and The Harry and Jeanette Weinberg Foundation Mark Harris ◊* Chaviva Jacobson ◊ Beth and Dr. Jeffrey* Kopin ◊

The Kaplan Family Stephanie* and Dr. Kurt Kavanaugh ◊ Susan and Bob Mednick Elisa Rotman and Rabbi Aaron Melman* Harvey L. Miller Family Foundation Wilfred J. Minkus Charitable Trust Ellen and Micah Nathan Ronna and Larry Nussbaum Sharon and Leon Oberlander Harriet and Joseph Resnick ◊

Northern Lights $2,500 and above Anonymous (1) Accurate Metal Fabricating, LLC Dr. Phyllis Gorin and Rabbi Morris Allen ◊ Lili Chester Amy and Rabbi Eric Cytryn Nicole and Dr. Ron Dolin Dr. Erica and Dr. Jeffrey Drazen Barb and Andy Fishman ◊ Patti and Michael Frazin Andrew Glick Dana and Jared Hall Lorie Chaiten and Harold Hirshman

Robin Newberger and Steven Sacks

Helaine and Howard Resnick

Nancy and Michael Schoenberger

Robyn* and Benjamin Schein

Noa Schwab’s Bat Mitzvah Fundraiser**

Emily and Adam* Steinberg ◊

David Nankin

Miriam and Morton* Steinberg ◊

Ms. Rena and Dr. Richard Panush

Cheryl and Steven Topal

Robin and Jonathan Parritz ◊

Barb and Michael Zaransky

Dr. Susan Feigenbaum and Dr. Jay Pepose

Jodie and Mark* Silberman ◊ Karyn and William Silverstein Deborah and Adam Winick ◊ Arnee and Walter Winshall

Agam

Elyse Rabinowitz and Jim Porter ◊

$5,000 and above

Cyndi and Jamie Rosenthal

Anonymous (2)

Tamar Newberger* and Andrew Schapiro

Elizabeth Lippow* and Keith Alperin

Jack & Goldie Wolfe Miller Fund

Heidi and Ben* Azulay

Rosh Anaf

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October 1, 2022 – September 30, 2023

Gladys and Yehuda Azulay Sarah and Samuel Caplan ◊

Louise and Jerry Ribnick

Idyth and Jay Zimbler

Linda and Michael Hoffenberg ◊ Sara Kushnir Sara Eisen and Matthew Levine

Ayala* and John Podhoretz

Bet Am

$3,600 and above Rachel and Dr. Andrew Abeles Phyllis and Rabbi Barry Cytron ◊ Amy Elfenbaum and Scott Kramer Nami* and David Goldenberg ◊ Karen and Jay Goodgold Sheri and Steve Greenbaum

$18,000 and above

Ellen and Yehuda* Cohen

Suzy and Dr. David Hakimian

Carol Weintraub Fogel* and Dr. Ronald Fogel

Rachel and Ron Cooper

Leeatt Rothschild and Micky Hervitz

Keren and Rabbi Simcha Prombaum Tess Glassman-Kaufman and Joshua Sacks Dr. Sarah* and Andrew Shulkind Emily and Rabbi David Soloff ◊ Sarah and Zachary Spellman Lisa Schuman and Jonathan Zimbler

Buckatabon

$1,800 and above

Dr. Sara* and Jon Hoffenberg ◊

The Drazen Family in memory of Rabbi Paul S. Drazen

Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago

Sara and Dr. Mark* Drexler ◊

Shira and Jonathan Oberlander

Karen* and David Ebroon ◊

Danielle* and Jonathan Pearl

Naomi and Jason* Litwack

Jeni and David* Elyashar ◊

Marcie and Brad Pickard

Meredith Grossman Anders and Darren Anders

Dr. Margaret* and Alan* Silberman ◊

Dr. Eve and Brad* Feinberg

Erica* and Rabbi Michael Schwab ◊

Tammy and Rabbi Noah Arnow

Lisa and Todd* Fishbein ◊

Carol Ann* and Michael Schwartz ◊

Silverman Family Foundation

Deena Fraint

Libby and Adam Smoler

Laura Elkayam and Rabbi Ezra Balser

Michelle and Dr. Arie Friedman

Meredith and Andrew* Weprin

Marci and Dr. Martin Boyer

Leslie and Michael Litwack ◊

Anonymous (1) Mark Altschul*

Sheila and Larry Gerber

Patricia Caplan

Brooke and Isaac Glassman

Tamar and Jacob Cytryn ◊

We are very grateful for the support of over 2,000 donations in fiscal year 2023!

Esther Goldberg-Davis and Rabbi Alexander Davis

Sally Appelbaum

Briana and Gabriel Kopin ◊ Samuel Lachterman

Shelli Aderman and Narda E. Alcorn

Dr. Deborah and Rabbi Charles Dobrusin ◊

Bobbi and Robert Aronson Mitchell Balk

Meredith and Benjamin Lewis

Sharon Benmaman and John Allen

Talia and Dr. Adam Baruch ◊

Dr. Susan Goldsmith and Ira Lichtenstein

Miranda and Steve* Altschul

Jane Lippow

Yaffa Cohen-Appelbaum

Bonnie and Dr. Lee Malmed

Lisa and Micah Arbisser

Emily Silber and Danny Mann Liat* and Ron Meisler

Lynette Barba and Steven Attermann

Barbara and Jonathan Minkus

Barbara Bach

Joan Katz and Bruce Mosbacher

Naomi Hoffman and Dr. Loren Bach

Judy Groner and Ronald Eisenberg Talia and Yoni Engelhart Talya and Joshua Gepner Amy Abrams and Ronen Glimer Marilyn Karasov Sarah and Michael Kashani Meredith and Eric Kirshenbaum Gigi Cohen and Michael Levin Shary and Dr. Marc Levitt ◊ Hoffman Living Trust Michael Newberger* Pam and Barry Pearl Erica and Donnie Phillips Vicki and Gary Phillips Brooke and Dr. Matt Plofsky Amy and Mark Rotenberg Kimberly and Dr. Ari Rubenfeld Arona and George Sarfatty ◊ Elizabeth Silver-Schack and Prof. Larry Silver Ann* and Adam Schneiderman Louise and Steven* Schoenberger ◊ Elana and Seth Schrank Michelle and James Seidenberg Melissa and Marc Spellman ◊ Shira Steinberg ◊ Adina Allen and Rabbi Josh Warshawsky ◊ Tami and Reuben Warshawsky ◊ Karen Weiss ◊ Michele and Ira Weiss Mimi Sager Yoskowitz and Marc Yoskowitz Dana Levin and Aaron Zell

Kikar

$1,000 and above Anonymous (1) Anne Opila and Todd Abraham Angela and Larry Adler

Robert Berger ◊ Karen and Marshall* Brill ◊ Haley Schaffer and Marty Chester Erica and Heath Cohen Gary Cortes ◊ Rita Cortes* ◊ Rebecca and Corey Derdiger Talia and Ari Derman ◊ Dr. Nehama Dresner Michelle and Jordan Edelman ◊ Terri and Solomon Eisenberg Nancy and Maury Fertig Rabbi Betsy and Scott* Forester Howard Frankenthal Beth Friend Dr. Betsy Gidwitz Madeline Gimbel Dr. Daniel Olson and Rabbi Benjamin Goldberg Dr. Leslie and Bernie Goldblatt ◊ Dr. Ranna Rozenfeld and Shane Greenstein Lauren Grossman Jodi and Adam Gruber Debra and Shlomi Gudai Dr. Maya Feldman and Jonah Harris* Ayelet Talmi and Daniel Hettleman Judy and Dr. Mark Hoffman Melanie and Brian Hoffman Daniel Hofkin Sharon Liebhaber and Rabbi Alan Iser Dr. Sherry Israel Dr. I. Cori Baill and Dr. Daniel Jacobs Lindsay and Zach Kafitz Faye Kroshinsky and Bennett Kaplan

Leslie and Dr. William Nelson Corey and Jered Nussbaum Lori and Dr. Richard Rabinowitz Mary Ann and Joel Rich ◊ Randee and Robert Romanoff Dr. Herbert Rosen ◊ Rachel and Charles Rosenberg Dr. Adrienne and Adam Rosenthal Rose and David Ross Dr. Leelach Rothschild Amy Rubenstein Aviva and David Rubin Linda and Rabbi Stuart Saposh Tirza Schmelzer-Covel and Albert Schmelzer Renee Locketz Segal and David Segal

Anshe Emet Synagogue

Rebecca* and Wade Bacon Hillel Baldwin Devorah Lissek and Dr. Josh Barash Trudi and Dr. Harvey Barash Susie Barezky Rachel Frailich and Timothy Bechtel Kara Behr Alison and Josh Berdass Cheryl and Rabbi Ken Berger Arden Goldstein and Levi Bergovoy Emilie and Scott Berman Congregation Beth Israel Ner Tamid Aaron Bielenberg

Samantha Kopin Silverman and Yoni Silverman

Rinat and Jamie Billow

Dr. Cheryl and Larry Sklar

Stephie and Dr. Andrew Blum

Rachel Katz and Geoff Storchan

Rabbi Eliav Bock

Naomi and Eric Sugar

Jody Boquist

Mr. Alan Tannenbaum

Mindy and Armand Botbol

Becca and Samuel Tatel

Stephanie Brill

Harold Ticktin

Max and Alison Brock

Mariel Gold and Aaron Wolf

Carrie and Adam Broms

Rachel Adelman and Gary Zaidenweber

Shira and Ross Broms

Friends

$180 and above

Fredda and Rabbi Mark Bisman

Ilisa and Michael Brown ◊ Shirley and Jared Bryan Mr. Zachary Bryant Becca and Rabbi Jonathan Bubis

Juliana and Howard Abrams

Tova and Daniel Bukingolts Carol and Scott Burg

Sarah Gold and Avi Allen*

Dr. Hanna Bloomfield and Dr. Robert Karasov

Sarah Abrams Wendy and Steve Abrams

Joni and Alexander Burgess

Shira and Mike Altman

Sheri Rosen and Jeremie Kass

Fran Abramson

Yvette Busia

Miranda and Steve Altschul

Debra Glassman and Bob Kaufman

Andrea Adelman

Am Shalom

Karen and Michael Kesner

Adina and Adam Aft

Paula Lifchez Cantor and Dr. Jeffrey Cantor

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Donor Recognition ◊ Legacy Society member

* Camp Ramah in Wisconsin Va’ad committee member

** my.ramahwisconsin.com peer-to-peer fundraising campaign

Cantors Assembly

Shari and Ahiad Erlich

Matthew Goldfarb

Julie and David Hoffman

Nanci and Ben Caplan

Marcie and Richard Eskin

David Goldis

Beth and Nathaniel Hope

Jane and Dennis Carlton

Jessica Ettinger

Dr. Bonnie and Dr. Gary Goldish

Elena Silberman and Steven Horak

Gabe Chasnoff

Leora and Dan Falkin

Tiffany and David Goldman

Roni Jacobson

Beryl and Dr. Noam Chernick

Elana* and Neil Goldsmith

Marla and Ezra Jaffe

Marni Cherrin

Natalie Blitt and Rabbi Josh Feigelson

Nikolas Jakobs

Julie Hirsch and Ron Feldman

Susie Goldsmith

Lois and Donald Chudacoff

Molly Jaret

Mirra Klausner and Todd Clauer

Stacy and Seth Feldman

Shira Goldstein

Jonathan and Heidi Jonas

Cari and Rabbi Mitchell Cohen

Dr. Sandy Sheinin and Dr. Alexander Feller

Marlene Noveck and Steven Goldstein Susan Goldstein

Eve and Steve Kafitz

Rona Malakoff and Ethan Goller

Lizzie and Micah* Kafitz

Joseph Goodman

Lina Garcia and Zachary Kagin

Laura Rabinowicz and Robert Goodman

Orlee and Jeffrey Kahn ◊

Shoshana and Matt Gordon

Benjamin Kanas

Mindy and Jeffrey Gordon

Solly Kane

Jonah Grant

Barbara and Josh Kantrow

Betsy and Pelleg Graupe

Lauren and Scott Kaplan

Rani Halpern and Joel Green

Aaron Kaplowitz

Shaina Hinton and Jonathan Green

Yoni Katz

Karen and Steven Grey Katie and Ilan Grinberg

Rabbi Amanda Russell and David Katz

June and Richard Gross

Jonathan Katz

Seth Gruen

Ariel Goodman and Isaac Katz

Maxwell Gruenberg

Leah Oko and Carl Katz

Orlee Tatarka and Yehuda Gruenberg

Kenneth Katz

Natalie and Brian Gurin

Eliana Kaufman

Solomon Gutstein

Matthew Kavanaugh

Sharon and David Haines

Dr. Robert Kavitt

Rebekah and Stu Almeleh

Jason Kesner

Paula and Dr. Aaron Hamvas

Jessica and Joel Ketner

Bill Handelman

Dr. Dalia and Brian Kirschbaum

Jewish Community Foundation of Greater Hartford, Inc.

Dr. Michael Klein Karen and Mitchell Kopin

Nadine Sasson Cohen Dr. Cheryl and Carey Cooper Rabbi Deena Cowans Dr. Ada Beth and Dr. Charles Cutler Babette Levy Daskin and Mark Daskin ◊ Mara Davis Roslyn Davis Larry DeKoven Samantha and Tom DeKoven Debbie Denenberg Dr. Becky Levine and Dr. Benjamin Derman Dr. Carol and Dr. Gordon Derman Shosh Korrub and Dr. Daniel Derman ◊ Debra and Dr. David Dobkin ◊ Samantha and Shai Dobrusin Ellen and Robert Doppelt Katherine and Matthew Doscher Evan and Miriam Dreifuss ◊ Coby Drexler Jason Dubner Jaclyn Millner and Gregory Duhl Dr. Risa Siegel and Dr. Siatta Dunbar

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October 1, 2022 – September 30, 2023

Larry Field Heather and Rabbi Jeremy Fineberg Teresa Brickman Finer and Dr. Paul Finer Amy and Ben Fisher Beth and Robert Footlik Emily Schwartz and Rabbi Benjy Forester Michal and Natie Fox Jodi and Dr. Avram Fraint Dr. Hannah Fraint Laura and Rabbi Alex Freedman Diana and David Freeman Jacqueline Wolff Friedman and Michael Friedman Matt Futterman Robin and Stephen Garfinkel Bonnie and Edward Garon Minda and Rabbi Ronald Garr Jen and Yossi Garr Arianna Gavzy Beth and Gordon Gendler Steven Gershone David Gershuny Karen and Dr. Jeffry Gerson ◊

Lois and Mark Just

Ellie Halevy and Larry Kalman

Ariel Katz

Dr. Betsy and Michael Katz

Riki Konikoff

Dr. Jane and Dr. Drore Eisen

Michelle Harris Gilats

Dan Eisenberg

Mrs. Donna Gilbert

Yonina Eisenberg Havivi and Nadav Havivi

Rebecca Barak and Yuval Eisenberg

Heidi and Howard Gilbert

Janice Hefter

Scott Gilman

Rachel Kraft

Marcia and Paul Herman

Ruth Eisenberg

Tihela Feit and Josh Gleicher

Lisa Krain

Barb Herstig

Tanya and Mike Eisenwasser

Deborah Goldberg

Julie Hettleman

Dr. Cindy Reich and Rabbi Harold Kravitz

Judy and Isaac Elkayam

Rebekah and Stephen Goldberg

Caitlin Higgins

Melissa and Paul Kreiter

Susan and Jonas Ellenberg

Robert and Shira Goldberg

Anna Grossberg and Jacob Hodes

Barry Krumstok

Debby Swichkow and Ray Ellis

Sharon and Dr. Harris Goldenberg

Jerry Leshem

Dena and Gary Elovitz

Lesley and Matt Goldenberg

Aleksandra Treyger and Ilan Hoffenberg

Julie and Coby Kraff

Dr. Elizabeth and William Levin

Every effort was made to correctly list donor names. If your gift was omitted or listed incorrectly, please email us at magazine@ramahwisconsin.com.

Samuel Levin

Dr. Beth and Ronn Nadis

Max Rotenberg

Gayle Silver

Melissa Levin

Barbara and Donald* Newman◊

Lisa and Matthew Rothenberg

Sarah Levin

Tamar Newman-Shapira

Jill Korey and Jonathan Rozenfeld

Tamara Frankel and Rabbi Zachary Silver

Donald Levine

Karen and Yizhar Nochimowski

Lauren and David Silverman

Jacob Levine

North Suburban Synagogue Beth El

Robin and Rabbi Steven Rubenstein ◊

Rachelle Simon

Karen and Russ Rubin

Heidi and Matthew Simons

Raquel Levitt Jenna and Jeremy Frankenthal

Allen Oleisky

Kimberly and Arnold Rubin

Steven Sklar

Rebecca Minkus Lieberman and Dr. David Lieberman

Nadine Orloff

Rochelle and Earl Rubinoff

Rabbi Hillel Skolnik

Avram Pachter

Tracey Rubinoff

Dr. Renee and Michael Slade

Emet Lieberman

Sandy Starkman and Larry Pachter ◊

Adam Rudolph

Faith Roessel and Matthew Slater

Abbie Papanicholas

Miriam and Michael Rudolph

Ricca Slone

Douglas Russ

Dr. Jeremy Slosberg

Rebecca and Rabbi David Russo

Sheila and Michael Small ◊

Michael Sackett ◊

Rachel and Jonathan Snitzer

Daniel Sacks

Betty Sobelman

Rabbi Susan Tendler and Ross Sadoff

Benjamin Soff

David Salem

Pamela and Adam Sohn

Vicki Lieberman Erica and Zachary Lindon Debbie and Gary Lindon Jessica and Matthew Litwack Sara and Steven Loevy Ariella Rotenberg and Tyler Logigian Dvora and Eli Lopez

Tamar Rubin and Adam Parker ◊ Ellen Sue and Dr. Jon Parker Rachel Zivic and Rabbi Micah Peltz Lynn and Dr. Louis Philipson Erica Phillips

Yael Malka-Loren and Daniel Loren

Rachel Pickus

Michael & Karyn Lutz Family Foundation

Hannah and Brian Pogrund

Daniel Macapagal

Rebecca and Robert Portnoe

Abigail and Justin Main Beate and Stefan Majetschak Fred Manaster Shoshana Mann Ilana and Adam Margolis

Lisa and Rabbi Jeff Pivo Elana and Joshua Pomeranz Joshua Price Adi and Alex Prombaum Rachael Gray-Raff and Elliot Raff Yari and Kevin Rahmanim

Danielle* and Jay Sandler Arielle and Yoni Saposh Ari Saposh Robert S Saposh Howard Schechter Aliza and Benjamin Scheier Jessica and Eli Scher Lilach and Carl Schrag Lynn and Skip Schrayer

Sonia Marschak

Anne-Monique and Edward Rapoport

Julie Rabinowitz and Gary Marx ◊

Debbie and Oren Rasowsky

Scott Mayer

Marilyn Green and Dave Rebnord

Kathleen McCabe

Tamar and Joel Ribnick

Anne McDonagh

Rachel and Seva Rodnyansky

Dr. Rachel* and Taylor McDowell

Joshua Romirowsky

Julie McFarland

Paulie and Rabbi Carnie Rose

Anne McGivern

Jason and Lindsey Rose

Michele and Seth Meisler

Ann Lesley and Scott Rosen ◊

Dr. Jonah Meyerhoff

Norma Rosen

Amy Reynolds and Benjamin Shapiro

Gretchen and David Miller

Sandi and Dan Rosenbaum

Kim and Greg Shapps

Yaela and Moshe Miller

David Rosenberg

Ilyssa and Rabbi David Minkus

Holly and Michael Rosenberg

Devora and Shimron Snyder-Shefer

Debbie Kaplan and Michael Mnookin

Marissa and Dr. Jonathan Rosenberg

Sarah and Jeremy Sherman Fran and Jonathan* Sherman ◊

Brandon Morgan

Gwenn Rosenthal

Hagit and Dr. Joshua Sherman

Zivya and Elan Mosbacher

Dr. Elaine Hantman and Dr. Paul Rosenthal

Orrin Shifrin

Jennifer Pehr and Jonathan Ross ◊

Aly Sider

Diane Lowenthal and Bradley Moskowitz Sheri Katz and Joel Mullin

Jessica Rezak Schwab Raphael Schwartz Marci Dickman and Ralph Schwartz Margalit and Nathaniel Segal Lauren and Marty Segelbaum Adam Seidenberg* Laurie and Mitchell Serber Jeremy Shanas

Dina Shiner Deena Siegel

Joan and Alan Sohn Samara and Adam Soiref Ronnie Jo Sokol David Sosland Joel Sprayregen Arlene and Rich Steele Jesse Steinman Lauren Gans and Jeffrey Stern Stephen Stern Meryl and James Sullivan Danit Talmi Marianne and Stuart Taussig Barbara and Harvey Temkin Yaara and Daniel Temkin Roberta and Leonard Tenner Deena Tenzer Steven and Lisa Tenzer ◊ Matt Tepperman Andrew Topal Kari Chester and Noah Trueger Tracy and Dustin Truesdell Helene Turner Lauren Rosenthal Turon Korah Erbacher and Nathan Unterman Elizabeth and Ira Ury Joan and Dr. Joseph Vander Walde Marci and Dr. Joel Vandersluis Rebecca Vandersluis Abby and Vitaly Vorobeychik

15

Donor Recognition

October 1, 2022 – September 30, 2023

Ramahniks

Zach Berkman

Scott Burstein

Lynda Berkowitz

Yvette Busia

Pola and Eric Berman

Joyce Butler

Beth Bernat

Joe and Amy Caplan

Sarah Palmer and Aryeh Bernstein

Sara Frailich and Christopher Castino

◊ Legacy Society member

* Camp Ramah in Wisconsin Va’ad committee member

Molly Sherman (Wack) Linda Wagner-Weiner Phyllis Waldmann ◊ Jennifer Cataldo Walters Kim and Matt Walzer Leigh and David Waterman Amanda and Sean Weil Sarah Weil Sarah and Daniel Weinberg Lisa and Michael Weiner Sam Weiner Joan and Jerome Weinstein Carmi Weinzweig Danielle and Dan Weiss Patty and Matthew Weiss Dr. Mary and Dr. Louis White Ruth Igielnik and Ben Wieder Barbara Gressel and Gary Wigoda Gail and Dr. Robert Wilensky Betty Winer Carly Winick David Witten Radyne and Dr. Steven Wolf Jordan Wolff Robin and Mark Wolff Lesley and Jeremy Wynes Amy and Jon Yaffe Lisa Cohen and Rabbi Jeremy Yoskowitz Sheila Yossem Rachel Zeman*

Gifts up to $180 Anonymous (4) Sally Aaron Laurel Abramowicz Sally and Michael Abrams ◊ Carolyn Abramson ◊ Irving Abramson Margaret and Jason Adess Judith Alex Leora Allen Dick Alpert Fran Alpert Nancy Lefkowitz and Joel Alpert Lynn and Alfred Altschul Susan and Joseph Ament Miriam Ament Rachel and Benoit Angulo Kaynan Appelbaum Alyssa Appelman Brandi and Daniel Argentar Sally and Paul Arnold Michael Aronstein Amy and Sammy Averbuch Penny and Paul Bach Cheryl Banks Karen and Hanoch Barak Roni and Simona Bareket Eleanor Barnes Hallie and Steve Barr

Olga Zimmerman

Amie and Jonathan Barrish

Rabbi Maya Zinkow

Romy Bayhack

Josh Zoland

Alvin and Elinor Bayliss Orly Bednarsh Jordan Behn Arnold and Debbie Bender Karen and Dr. David Benson David and Gloria Berger Laura and Rabbi Jonathan Berger Sonia Berk Judy Berkeley Becky Kupchan Berkman and Shie Berkman Sydney Berkman

16

** my.ramahwisconsin.com peer-to-peer fundraising campaign

Rabbi Lizzi Heydemann and Henry Bernstein

Marie Cavaleri

Jill & Irwin Bernstein

Maureen Chaikin

Rita and Mitchell Berzin

Rebecca and Dr. Steven Charous

Jean Best ◊

Rebecca Friedman-Charry and Joshua Charry

Robyn Weinstein and Edward Bettenhausen

Lorraine and Jordan Cherrick

Tamar Dolgen and Sergio Bicas

Daniel Chiat

Sharon Bilow

Sarah Chroman

Marc Birnbaum

Donna and Mark Chudacoff

Moria and Russell Bittmann Michelle and Sanford Blechman

Heather Goldstein and David Chudnow

Abby and Lawrence Block

Ayelet and Yinam Cohen

Theodore Bloom

Rabbi Burton Cohen ◊

Gerald Blumberg

Dan Cohen

Randi Blume

Lauren Cohen

Ellen Blumenthal

Susan and Kenneth Cohn

Marc Blumenthal

Linda Cohn

Mira Blumenthal

Margaret and Lee Cohn ◊

Beverly Bochenek

Michelle Collins

Corine and William Bockenek

Jessica Colman

Al Bonowitz

Marilyn Condon

Anne Bonowitz

Marta Contino

Ilana and Mateo Borzak

Jamie Cooper and Mark Schnitzer

Leah and Jori Brajer

Penny and Robert Corris

Naomi Shapiro and Adam Braun

Sara and Steve Coven

Debbie Breckenridge

Amy Curran

Eileen Leiderman and Ben Brener

Natalie Darwin

Debbie Brodsky

Keren Daskin

Becky and Stuart Brodsky

Marci Daugherty

Tammy Brody

Tamar and Ben Davis

Barbara and David Brown

Sonya Davis

Ezra Brown

Talia Derman

Gail and Andrew Brown

Josh and Jamie Diamond

Rachel Brumberg

Ellen and Jed Dolnick

Elizabeth Holtzman and David Bubis ◊

Mindy Dolnick

Rabbi Gita Karasov and Daniel Buonaiuto

Marcy Dicker and David Dropkin

Margery Burstein

Mollie Dubner

Caroline Dreifuss Aliza and Michael Drumm

Every effort was made to correctly list donor names. If your gift was omitted or listed incorrectly, please email us at magazine@ramahwisconsin.com.

Rochelle Dueser

Debbie Fox

Larry Goldsmith

Carol Handler

Shira Goldman Dunn

Wendy and Benjamin Frank

Ellen and Larry Goldstein

Paula Harris

Clare Duwelius

Leonard J Frankel

Marjorie Goldstein

Jill and Steven Ebstein

Kim and Stuart Frankenthal ◊

Mindelle Goldstein

Tamima Wyszkowski and Jacob Hartz

Adrienne Eckerling

Malka and Michael Frazin

Scott Goldstein

Rabbi Eliezer Havivi

Elaine and Steven Edelstein

Sonya Frazin

Samuel Goller

Avi Edwards

Linda and Mark Freedman

Jamie Goodman

Michelle Minkus and Michael Heifetz

Neal Ehrlich

Tom Freeman

Dr. Michael Goodman

Rami Eilian

Bonnie and Sheldon Freidenreich

Judith and Michael Gordon

Meg Boland and Myron Einisman

Karen Frey

Marlene and Samuel Gordon ◊

Rachel and Claude Einstein

Janet Freyman-Gendelman

Dana and Dr. Joel Gorfinkel

Calvin Eisenberg

Amy Friedman

Emily and Daniel Gottlieb

Debra and Daniel Eisenstein

Lawrence Friedman

Johanna Gottlieb

Anna and Michael Elfenbaum

Pamela and Moshe Friedman

Elaine Gould

Abby Elkins

Elise Frost

Mindy Grabowski

Marlene and Larry Engelhart

Ursula and Ernest Fruehauf

Betsey Grais

Mollie Englander

Jack Fuchsman

Laeh Grant

Francine and David Ephraim

Barry Gabel

Leslie Grant

Kim and Eric Ephraim

Sari and Mark Gallagher

Noa Grant

Betty Rae Epstein

Diane Ganden

Cassie Green

Harry Eskin

Noah and Dina Garfinkel

Shira Dickstein and Elan Green

Robyn Faintich

Eydie and Donald Garlikov

Neil and Rachel Greenbaum

Dr. Gerald and Judy Farby

Gordon Garmaise

Rachel and Jonathan Greenberg

Krayna and Rabbi Charles Feinberg

Raphael Gendler

Dr. Bruce and Gail Greenspahn

Rachel Gerber

Rebecca Greenstein

Judy and Steven Feinberg

Alla and Rafi Geretz

Meka Greenwald

Michelle Berkowitz and Samuel Feinberg

Darcy and David Gilbert Burke

Tali and Graham Griffin

Sarah Feinberg

Sharon and Walter Gillett

Ellen Grindel

David and Jodi Gimbel

Mark Gross

Philip Feitelberg

Jenna Greenberg and Joshua Ginsberg

Marla Grossberg

Chani Feldman

Peggi and Bruce Glaser

Adina and Baruch Feldstern

Molly Gruesner

John Gleason

Nancy and Alfred Fichman

Judy and Stephen Grundfast

Elizabeth Katcoff and Ari Gleicher

Ellie and Marc Fineman

Eli Gurin

Marcia Glickman

Anat Reschke and Brad Fink

Rachel Gurin

Rosalie Gold

Ruth Fischer

Samuel Gurtman

Brian and Deborah Goldberg

Leslie Fishbein

Helene and Mark Gussin

Ronald Goldberg

Aviva Levine Jacobs and Stu Jacobs

Michael Fishman

Judy Gussin

Scott Goldberg

Heather Johnston

Shelby Fishman

Deborah Goldenberg

Dr. Alison Grann and Dr. David Gutstein

Sharon and Ken Kadet

Ethan Fivel

Elizabeth Goldenberg

Elizabeth and Simon Halfin

Jerry and Sally Flanzer

Lia and Adam Goldfarb

Marlene and Seth Halpern

Pearl and Joel Kagan

Jennifer and Stewart Flink ◊

Rachel and Yaron Goldfarb

Blake Hamilton

Stacy Fogel

Debbie Goldman

Marla Hand

Shayna Cherry and Chris Foust

Jeffrey Goldsmith

Maxine and Jacob Handelman

Jeff Feinstein

Sheila and Gary Grossman

Rona Heifetz Bobbi and Randy Heiligman Jerilynn Jessel Heiligman Joel and Shirley Heiligman Amyra Henry Paul Herman Donna and Jeffrey Hersh Ariana Hershon Gwen and Scott Heyman Shanna and Andrew Hill Stephen Hirsch Alan Hobscheid Stuart and Barbara Hochwert Lauren and Noam Hoffenberg Barbara Weisman Hoffman Alieza Schvimer and David Hoffman Lisa Hoffman Melissa and Kenneth Hoffman Barbara and Dr. Robert Hoffman Stacey and Bill Hoffman Gayle and Tom Hofmann Tobi Cooper and Rabbi Daniel Horwitz Daniel and Susan Hoseman Rachel and Kevin Howard Dr. Jeanne Horowitz and Matthew Huff Emil Izrailov

Jeffrey Kagan Wendy and Daniel Kahn Joyce Kamen Dr. David Kantor

17

Donor Recognition ◊ Legacy Society member

* Camp Ramah in Wisconsin Va’ad committee member

** my.ramahwisconsin.com peer-to-peer fundraising campaign

Adrienne and Brad Kaplan

Ellen Lavin

Shari Cohen and Robert Mayer

Marla and Al Plotnik

Gerry Kaplan

Judith and Jerold Lax

Phyllis and Sidney Kaplan

Carol and Phil Lazarus

Dr. Bryce Jacobs and Matthew Mayers

Rabbi Shalom and Mrs. Dalia Podwol

Sandi Kaplan

Jeremy Lee

Pnina Mazor

Andrew Polsky

David Leibman

Donna McGowan

Rachel Slutsky and William Kaplowitz

Jay Lerner

Jennifer and Joel Mehr

Dr. Miriam and Dr. Bruce Pomeranz

Roseanne Lesack

Rabbi Joe Menashe

Beth Pontecore

Debbie Katai

Benjamin Leshem

Mike Miller

Benjamin Portnoe

Eitan Katz

Elyse and Dr. Ron Less ◊

Nancy Miller

Arthur Potash

Dr. Ilana Dworin Kehl and Alex Kehl

Jean and Rabbi Alan Lettofsky

Annie Berger and Jacob Millner

Lyla Puro Davia Rabinoff-Goldman

Harvey Kelber

Sara Lynn Newberger and Barbara Levine

Barry Mnookin Rachel Modlin

Sandy Raizes

Joseph and Kimberly Kesner

Lisa and Jim Levitas

Joni Crounse and Richard Moline

Risa and Steven Kessler

Mortin Levy

Linda and Rafi Moreen

Dr. Mary Jane and J. David Rapport

Susie Kessler

Tovah Lieberman

Richard Morris

Leslie Kind

Sarah Liebman

Helene Moses

Carla Klausner

Sheldon Linderman

Lauren Schneider and Larry Moss

Jeremy and Sarah Klaven

Debra Linfield

Michael Nadler

Brett Kleiman

Dina and Trevor Lissoos

Judie Nagel

Jordan Klein

Dan Loren

Allison and Adam Nemirow

Sydelle Klein

Ann Luban

Ilana Neusner

Matthew Kletter

Sarit Luban

Dr. Robyn and Dr. Mark Newstadt

Elana Knight

Stephanie Lubin

Phyllis and Neil Nissel

Candace Knobloch

David Nissenholtz

Mara and Mike Kogan

Arielle Kaufman and Ohad Ludomirsky

Shoshana and Moshe Konstantin

Marsha Lyons

Naomi Norwick

Elaine Korn

Christine and Dr. Alan Lyss

Phyllis Nutkis

Arnold Kort

Pamela Lyss-Lerman

Vanessa Ochs

Dr. Jeremy Kraff

Paula and Dr. Albert Madansky

Noreen Ohcana

Lori and Rabbi Ben Kramer

Rachel Olshin

Leonie Kramer

Yana Abramovich and Tomer Mahlin

Sandra Kramer

Rinna Maletsky David Malmon

Barrie and Steven Orloff ◊

Scott Kramer Barry Kravitz

Suzanne and Howard Malmon

Marisa and Rabbi David Krishef

Jonathan Maltsman

Judy and Marshall Kupchan

Allyson and Andrew Marcus

Linda Kupfer

Joan and Dr. David Marcus

Bryna and Rabbi Vernon Kurtz

Kathryn Marczak

Jeffrey and Roberta Kwall

Julie and Eric Marder

Suzanne and Mark Lampert

Dr. Edward and Paulette Margulies

Mary Lou Langenhop

Christina Markle

Aaron Langer

Gail Marks

Barbara Lansing

Rebecca Marsh

Ellen and Dr. Steven Lasin

Aviva Masler

Rachel and Jonathan Laven

Jill Mass

Howard Kaplansky

18

October 1, 2022 – September 30, 2023

Kelly Norman

David Orlins Liana Oshin Lorri and Steve Otis Brian Pack Dr. Sharon Packer Emily and Howard Paper Rhonda Parker Deena Pascal Paige Paulson Jacob Pellegrino John and Elissa Pelts Heidi Petersen Joe Philipson Aaron Pickard

David Raskas Elisa and Rick Recht Holly and Jonathan Reinsdorf Rebecca Remis Gary Resnick Sarah Rezmovits Sue Rich Devorah and Marc Richards Linda Riordan Ronit Ripes Rivkin, Rivkin, and Kaplan Allan Rolnick Aaron Rose Noa Rose David Rosen Lynn and Howard Rosen Nancy and Rabbi James Rosen Debbi Rosenberg Lital Casper Rosenberg and Ari Rosenberg Robyn Rosenblatt Wendy Rosenblum LIsa Rosenkranz Lindsey Rosenson michael rosenswig Mara Roshal Emily and David Rotenberg Marina Arutyunyan and Gabriel Roth Amanda Rubin Tammy and Joel L. Rubin

Every effort was made to correctly list donor names. If your gift was omitted or listed incorrectly, please email us at magazine@ramahwisconsin.com.

Jackie Rubinoff

Gloria Shapiro

Iris Rudnick

Jed Shein

John Rudnick

Estelle and James Sherman

Yonatan Saadi Steven Sacks

Laura Baruch Sherman and Charlie Sherman

Bonnie Saks

Dr. Shelley Sherman

Randall Saks

Ariel Schwartz and Jonah Shifrin

Linda Saltzman

Madeline Shaffer and Jerry Shifrin

Susan and Rabbi Neil Sandler

Casey Shipman

Ruth Sang

Heather Shumaker

Rabbi Sarit Horwitz and Rabbi Abe Schachter-Gampel

Karen and Hal Sider ◊

Betsy and Kenneth Schack

Marisa and Michael Siegel

Hannah Minkus and Joe Schaedler

Maynard Siegel

Ina Schaffer

Shael and Myrna Siegel

Rabbi Ilene Melamed and Joel Schatz

Daniel Silver

Debby Strauss

Steven Wees

Maureen and Randy Silver

Nancy and Rabbi Craig Scheff

Abigail Sugar

Norman Weinandy

Philip Silverman

Cyva Scheide

Shaina and Brad Sugar

Ethan Weiner

Rebecca Silverman

Allison Schenk

Jodi and Bryan Sugar

Howard Weiner

Katy and Josh Silvers

Carly Schlafer

Esther Sulkin

Jodi Weiner

Susan Simpson

Danit and Joshua Schleman

Liz Weinstein

Eleanor and Louis Skydell

Judith Hellerstein and Phillip Swagel

Richard Schlosberg

Jacob Slosberg

Shelly Phillips and Dr. Ted Tapper

Barbara Schloss

Marsha G. Weisel

Susan Agate and Michael Slutsky

Marcia Jean Taub

Jaime Schneider

Barb Masler Weiss

Maynard Small

Amy Taxman

Debbie Schneiderman

Carol Weiss

Stephanie and Michael Smerling

Karin Klein and Joel Teibloom

Inbal Schnitman

Jodi Weiss

David Smiley

Emma Eisemann and Eli Temkin

Ahoova and Jonathan Schoenberg

Judy and David Weiss

Stephen and Judy Smiley

Mira and Darryl Temkin

Roger Schoenfeld

Roni* and Steven Weiss

Judy Smith

Dr. Donald Temple

Edna Schrank

Scott Westle

Gil Soffer

Naomi Teperow

Estherbeth Buchbinder and Jeffrey Schvimer

Shifra Whiteman

Rachel and Howard Spiro

Andrew Thomashow

Paula Winnig

Judah Schvimer

Susan and Jeffrey Spitz

Bonnie Katz and Carl Tishler

Stacy Winternitz

Heather Stamatacos

Mark Topal

Kurt Wisthuff

Alina and Mikhail Starobinsky

Sarah and Scott Topal ◊

Lee Wolf

Judah Stein

Cynthia Tramonte

Sheila Wollheim

Lisa Stein

Henry Uban

Rochelle Wynne

Shira Stein

Ziv Yahav

Judith and Neil Steinberg

Michelle Neuman and Rabbi Daniel Vaisrub

Melanie and Dan Steindler

Lisa Vernick Rebecca Wachtel

Rosanne Zaidenweber

Mindy and Jay Sterns Leah and Tom Steuer

Ruth Wallack

Mayer Stiebel* ◊

Glenn Warshaw

Deborah Stock

Dr. Robert Warshawsky

Rabbi Elka Abrahamson and Rabbi Martin Zinkow

Lauren and Kyle Stone

Liat Wasserman

Lynn Zwerdlinger

Adina Rubin and Ricky Straka

Ari Weber

Rabbi Joel and Aviva Schwab Sharon and Richard Schwab David Schwartz Milayna Schwartz Stuart Schwartz Caryn Sedloff Lindsay Seidenberg Elli Smerling and Andy Sevi Irene and Samuel Shanes Leslie and Jack Shankman Barbara and Gary Shapira Lori Stark and Dr. David Shapiro ◊

Ilene Siegel

Rita and Josh Weintraub

Ina and Dr. Joseph Young Brad Zaransky Rommie Zats

19

Donor Recognition ◊ Legacy Society member

* Camp Ramah in Wisconsin Va’ad committee member

Corporate Sponsors

October 1, 2022 – September 30, 2023

** my.ramahwisconsin.com peer-to-peer fundraising campaign

In Kind

Associated Agencies

Corporate Matching Gifts

Everactive Solutions

C.H. Robinson

Susan Alexandra

First Student

ebay

Jean and Laurence Appel

Goldberg Kohn Foundation

Gartner

Kovitz Investment Group Partners, LLC

The Giving Block

Benesch Friedlander Coplan & Aronoff LLP Boka Restaurant Group

Lake Forest Bank & Trust Co

Goldman Sachs & Co. Matching Program

Sarah and Samuel Caplan

Mesirow Financial

Google

Caravan Management

Miller Cooper & Co., Ltd

Grainger

Yehuda and Ellen Cohen

Allen Agron

Much Shelist, P.C.

H & H Purchasing Hillspire LLP

Congregation Beth Shalom, Northbrook, IL

Betty Benson

Mosaic Construction Much Shelist, P.C.

Home Depot

CPW Events

Rose Choffnes

Ramblin Partners, LLC

JP Morgan Chase

Mimi and Ron Grossman

Spectrum Properties

Kaiser Foundation Health Plan of the Northwest Community

Rabbi Gesa and Rabbi Nils Ederberg Grow and Behold Foods

Manuel Feldman

LinkedIn Magid Glove and Safety Medtronic Menorah Heritage Foundation Microsoft Pfizer Raytheon Technologies Salesforce.org TisBest Philanthropy Transunion UBS UHG UMB Bank Verizon VMWare Foundation

AJ Capital Partners

Hagafen Cellars Paula and Dr. Aaron Hamvas Daniela and Jon Hoffman iHeart Radio Ally and Jordan Kirshenbaum La Colombe Late Night with Seth Meyers Lettuce Entertain You

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.

David Berger

Micki and Uzi Halevy Stanford Goldberg Evelyn Harris Rabbi Myer Kripke Gertrude Lederman Wally Lelewski George Levine Edward Marks

Laeh Litin

Roselind and Sheldon Rabinowitz

Naomi and Jason Litwack

Vivian Rice

Midtown Athletic Club

Arthur Salkin

Beth and Dan Mueller

Leslie Schwartzman

Lee Oberlander Mr. Marc and Julie Platt Ayala and John Podhoretz Harriet and Joseph Resnick Phil Rozansky Tamar Newberger and Andrew Schapiro Second City Jodie and Mark Silberman Dr. Margaret and Alan Silberman Renee and Pete Silverman Scott Solotorovsky St. Regis Kanai Resort St. Regis Punta Mita Resort Tailwinds Air Carmi Weinzweig Wildside Action Sports Lesley and Jeremy Wynes Zelda’s Catering

20

Of Blessed Memory

IN MEMORIAM

CAMPER SAM ZELL

T

he Camp Ramah in Wisconsin and Ramah Day Camp communities mourn the passing of First Decade camper Sam Zell, a visionary whose life embodied an unwavering commitment to Jewish philanthropy, an inspiring immigrant and entrepreneurial journey, and an unbreakable bond with Camp Ramah in Wisconsin.

Having left us too soon at 81, Sam’s legacy resonates through the causes he championed and the countless lives he touched.

Sam Zell, born on September 27, 1941, in the shadows of the Holocaust, was an emblem of resilience. His parents were immigrants that sought refuge in Chicago. This experience seeded Sam with a profound appreciation for the opportunities America offered, igniting a dedication to give back to his Jewish community.

Zell’s life was a tapestry woven with remarkable business acumen and an unwavering commitment to philanthropy. His support for educational institutions, the arts, community centers, and humanitarian organizations was a testament to his dedication to preserving Jewish heritage and history. Among the threads that colored his life story, his time at Camp Ramah in Wisconsin held a special place. Sam was a camper in camp’s inaugural decade. In his autobiography “Am I Being Too Subtle?” Zell shared his sentiments: “It was

a transformative experience for me…Ramah was unique in that it treated campers as adults from day one. It just was assumed we were all responsible citizens.

For an independent kid who hates restraints, it was heaven.

The youngest to the oldest kids all interfaced. So there were no established groups. No one had a predetermined position. It was my first real experience with a meritocracy. All of a sudden, I had a blank canvas. In ordinary life I couldn’t always get things done the way I wanted. I ran into school politics, parental hurdles and other obstacles. But camp was different. For eight weeks each year, I was an unchecked leader. It did an enormous amount to build my confidence, and it gave me a glimpse of bigger possibilities for my future. I was as good leading the other kids astray as anything else, but I led them nonetheless.”

The camp offered a sanctuary where his Jewish roots were celebrated and lifelong bonds were forged.

Zell’s commitment to Camp Ramah went beyond sentiment; he and his wife Helen emerged as the largest lifetime funders of the camp. Their dedication ensured future generations would experience the same transformative camp moments he held dear. Sam and Helen invested in Ramah Day Camp in its first summer, providing tuition incentives that helped the camp quickly build a critical mass of interest.

Zell’s grandchildren followed in his

footsteps, attending Camp Ramah and carrying forward his legacy.

Now spanning the generations, his family’s connection with the camp is a living testament to his enduring impact.

Sam Zell’s journey epitomized the quintessential American dream — a tale of a child of immigrants who conquered adversity through hard work, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to his Jewish values. From humble beginnings, Zell’s entrepreneurial spirit propelled him to the forefront of the business world.

Sam Zell leaves behind a world enriched by his presence. As we reflect on his Ramah journey, we are reminded of the transformative potential within each of us, a potential that he brought to life through his philanthropy, and his profound connection with Camp Ramah.

We extend our deepest condolences to Sam’s wife, Helen, and their children and grandchildren, as Sam noted in his book, many of whom were Ramah campers and staff members, including Aaron Zell (Nivo 2011), Rena Zell (Nivo 2013), Benjamin Zell (Tikvah 2010s), and Rachel Zell (Nivo 2018).

May Sam’s memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved him.

‫המקום ינחם אותם בתוך שאר‬ ‫אבלי ציון וירושלים‬ 21

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. Mazal Tov!

ENGAGEMENTS Kara Behr (Nivo 2000) and Eric Breiner Andy Foote (Nivo 2006) and Rachel Sydney

Adam Seidenberg (Nivo 2009) and Naomi Polinsky

Annie Glasser (Former Program Director) and Steven Sacks (Nivo 2011) Alan Spellman (Nivo 2012) Sydney Kay

22

MARRIAGES David Rosenberg (Nivo 2001) and Carolyn Kangavari

Danny Stamos (Nivo 2009) and Abi Goldstein

Amir Zinkow (Nivo 2003) and Dana Neugut

Rebecca Fivel (Nivo 2010) and Daniel Dexter

Lora Slutsky (Nivo 2005) and Noah Liebman

Avidan Halivni (Nivo 2012) and Yaffa Fogel

Michael Brunwasser (Nivo 2006) and Emma Rosen

Golda Kaplan (Nivo 2011) and Ruben Waldman

Sara Lederman (Nivo 2006) and Miguel Verdejo

Miranda Smerling (Nivo 2011) and Jason Gaines

Rebecca Rapport (Nivo 2006) and Josh Katz

Dana Levin (Nivo 2012) and Aaron Zell (Nivo 2011)

Joey Portnoe (Nivo 2007) and Meytal Chernoff

Rachel Small (Nivo 2012) and Dave Tramonte

Deena Siegel (Nivo 2008) and Cody Kistinger

Ari Spellman (Nivo 2012) and Daniella Lewittes

Gabriel Rubin (Nivo 2009) and Juliet Bellin Warren

Harrison Freeman (Nivo 2015) and fiancé

Emily Schwartz (Nivo 2009) and Rabbi Benjy Forester (Nivo 2010)

Dalya Kahn (Nivo 2013) and Yova Alush Sophia Fineberg (Staff 21-23) and Alan Imar (Nivo 2016) Alicia Vinocur (Former Registrar) and Ben Fooden Daniella Elyashar (Former Assistant Director) and Adam Schrag (Nivo 2010)

BIRTHS Leehe (Matalon) (Staff ‘90’s-00s and ‘20s) and Sam Milligan – Maya Yael Jennifer and Gabe Gershowitz (Nivo 1997) – Brie Deanna Neil (Nivo 1997) and Tal Wolfson – baby girl Tamara Frankel and Rabbi Zach Silver (Nivo 1999) – Dorit Eden

Brenda (Cole) (Nivo 2003) and Bradley Wulfstat – Elijah Cole Abby (Landis) (Nivo 2005) and Jonathan Miller – Eliana Ida Tali (Ribnick) (Nivo 2006) and Dr. Adam Baruch – baby girl Jenna and Jeremy Frankenthal (Nivo 2006) – Sylvie Belle

IN THE NEWS – CONGRATULATIONS TO: David Sherman (Nivo 1974) on his solo photography gallery show Outside the Lines Carol Ann (Gershuny) Schwartz (Nivo 1976) on becoming Hadassah’s 28th national president Joel Chasnoff (Nivo 1990) on the release of his new book Israel 201

Tamar and Ben Davis (Nivo 2000) – Russell Emmett and Caleb Joel

Rebecca (Elkayam) (Nivo 2007) and Mike Miller – Sivan Miriam

Talia and Michael Feldman (Nivo 2001) – Rivkah Gittel

Leora (Goldblatt) (Nivo 2007) and Dan Falkin – Noa Ariel

Jamie and Seth Gruen (Nivo 2001) – Jax Ross

Danielle Parker (Nivo 2007) and Jake Strich – Liam Lyons

Shanna (Kwall) (Nivo 2002) and Andrew Hill – baby girl and baby boy

Andy Shulkind (Nivo 1994) on his work as director of photography at the Sphere in Las Vegas

Alexis Fishman (Nivo 2008) and Aaron Kaye (Nivo 2005) – Madeline Noa and Zoey Harper

Ariel Keren (Nivo 1998) on appearing in a new commercial for Adam Mizrach in Israel

Shira Olson (Nivo 2008) and Scott MacPhee – baby boy

Michelle Edelman (Nivo 1999) on being promoted to Vice President, Assistant General Counsel at TransUnion!

Josh (Mann) (Nivo 2003) and Rory Zamansky –Isaac Stacey and Harlan Rosenson (Nivo 2003) – Zoey Dakota Jamie Cooper (Nivo 2004) and Mark Schnitzer – Mila Rose Rachel Danko (Nivo 2004) and Ken Wang – Adrian Blake Becky and Ben Derman (Nivo 2004) – Lev Tov Jaclyn and Adam Grannick (Nivo 2004) – baby girl Linda (Levin) (Nivo 2004) and Rafi Moreen – Solomon Adin Aliza (Sandler) (Nivo 2004) and Matthew Jay – Bennet Hart Rita (Botbol) (Nivo 2005) and Josh Weintraub (Nivo 2006) – Charlie Dru

Dani (Wolf) (Nivo 2008) and Dan Weiss (Nivo 2007) – Avery Shelley Ariel Goodman (Nivo 2009) and Isaac Katz (Nivo 2009) – baby girl Stephanie and Jonathan Ribnick (Nivo 2009) – Faye

Jeremy Yoskowitz (Nivo 1991) on his new position as Staff Chaplain at Corewell Health

Rabbi Jonathan Bubis (Nivo 2000) on becoming the new Rav Beit HaSefer (School Rabbi) for Solomon Schechter Day School of Metropolitan Chicago Laura Elkayam (Nivo 2001) on being promoted to principal at Much

Sarah (Ungerman) (Nivo 2010) and Zach Spellman (Nivo 2009) – Goldie Ruth Moriah and Yoni Grey (Nivo 2010) – Yair Avraham Karen Brier and Jared Skoff (staff 2010s) – baby girl 23

IN THE NEWS – CONGRATULATIONS TO: Matt Rotenberg (Nivo 2003) on the release of his new album (as artist M O K) “Life Worth Living” on Spotify Rabbi Deena Cowans (Nivo 2005) on her new position as Director of Family Life and Learning at B’nai Jeshurun (New York) Lauren Vandersluis Kaplan (Nivo 2005) on launching a new law firm, Kaplan Estate Law LLC

Beni Gliksberg (Nivo 07) on his acquisition of Shaevitz Kosher Market and Uptown BBQ restaurant!

Rabbi Benjy Forester (Nivo 2010) on his new position as rabbi at Anshe Emet Synagogue in Chicago, IL

Mason Brown (Nivo 2016) on his new position as Communications Coordinator at Congregation B’nai Jehoshua Beth Elohim Samantha Brody (Nivo 2017) on being appointed co-chair of the Hillel International Student Cabinet Rabbi Shani Abramowitz (Staff 2017-2019) on her new podcast The Bluegrass Schmooze

Our Sincere Condolences To the family of Rabbi Hillel Silverman (Former Director) who passed away in April 2023 To the family of Dr. Robert Bundt (First Decade Alum) who passed away in October 2023 To the family of Rabbi Matthew Simon (First Decade Alum – First Ramah Wisconsin Camper) who passed away in September 2023 To the family of Rubin Singer (First Decade Alum) who passed away in February 2023 To the family of Dr. Donald Wasserman (First Decade Alum) who passed away in February 2023 To the family of Martin Weiland (First Decade Alum) who passed away in November 2023 To the family of Sam Zell (First Decade Camper) who passed away in May 2023 To the family of David Weber (1950s-1960s Alum) who passed away in August 2023 To the family of Suzanne Belzer Bundt (Nivo 1983) who passed away in November 2022 To the family of Daniel Weinstein (Nivo 1991) who passed away in January 2023 To the family of Ede Snyder (1960s Staff) who passed away in December 2022 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.

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ALUMNI PROFILE

AT THE INTERSECTION OF COMMUNITY BUILDING AND CULINARY EXPLORATION Beni Gliksberg, Nivo 2007

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n the world of real estate, where Beni Gliksberg (Nivo 2007) spent nearly a decade honing his skills, a unique twist of fate led him to transition into an entirely different realm—one deeply rooted in community and culinary passion. As a Highland Park native, Beni has always been intimately connected with the Shaevitz family, thanks to their longstanding retail presence.

However, it was a fortuitous series of events that propelled him from the world of real estate investments into the heart of a well-established local deli and kosher restaurant business.

Growing up surrounded by the Shaevitz family and frequenting their store, Beni had developed a strong rapport with the owner, Michael Shaevitz. When the family decided to sell the business, Beni saw it as a chance to step into something more exciting and community-oriented. He recognized that being part of a business deeply ingrained in the community would not only align with his personal interests but also provide an avenue to contribute positively to the local Jewish community.

For Beni, the shift from real estate to the food and beverage industry felt like the right move at the right time. Having just moved back to

Highland Park with his own young family—a two-year-old daughter and a two-month-old son—he was eager to contribute to and interact with the community he had known his entire life. His passion for the culinary world, particularly his love for meat, made the transition into a deli and restaurant business a natural fit.

The Shaevitz deli and restaurant, with roots dating back to 1910 in Chicago, became Beni’s new venture. Beni approached his new role with a willingness to learn everything on the fly. From interacting with customers to being on the phone and experimenting with chefs to introduce new and exciting offerings, Beni embraced the challenges of the kosher food and beverage industry.

One aspect that drew Beni into the business was the butcher aspect of the operation, allowing for custom cuts and a commitment to providing fresher options than the average grocery store. His goal is to expand into more prepared food, elevating the culinary offerings and providing the community with a broader array of choices.

Reflecting on his camp experiences, Beni recalls fond memories of the secret Shabbat Kiddush club, where incredible meals were shared with friends.

This experience, along with his deep-rooted Jewish identity, taught him valuable lessons about camaraderie, late nights, sports, and the freedom to be silly—a spirit he aims to bring to his business.

When asked about his favorite spot at camp, Beni fondly reminisces about the basketball courts, a place where friendships were forged and memories were made. Today, both personally and professionally, Beni finds himself at the intersection of community building and culinary exploration, driven by a passion for both.

For younger alumni just starting their journeys, Beni offers sage advice: be open-minded, try everything, and don’t fear exploring different career paths.

His own experience of saving up while working in a real estate company served as a valuable foundation for the leap into the world of delis and restaurants. As he continues to learn and grow in his new venture, Beni remains deeply connected to his roots and committed to enhancing the Jewish community through his contributions to the local culinary scene.

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ALUMNI PROFILE

CAMP: SHARI’S HAPPY PLACE Shari Dollinger Magnus, Nivo 1993

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hari Dollinger’s journey in life has been profoundly influenced by her summers at Camp Ramah in Wisconsin. Shari spent seven years at camp, first as a camper from 1989 to 1993, then as a counselor in 1995 and 1996. Her experiences at camp played a pivotal role in shaping her personal and professional development, leading her towards a career focused on Israel and Jewish advocacy.

When asked about her favorite camp memories, Shari fondly reminisces about her entire Nivo summer. She vividly recalls the impactful lessons taught through music by Matt Kalin, who encouraged everyone to seize the day and make the most of their time at camp. This philosophy resonated deeply with her and has continued to inspire her throughout her life.

Among the cherished aspects of camp life, Shari holds a special place in her heart for the delicious pizza bagels, which never failed to satisfy.

The Kikar became her favorite spot—a place where she forged meaningful connections with her fellow campers and staff, engaging in conversations, laughter, and moments of connection. As a lover of arts and creativity, Shari’s favorite camp activity was omanut, allowing her to express herself through various artistic mediums and tap into her creative spirit.

In her professional life, Shari has dedicated herself to making a significant impact within the Jewish community. For the past five years, she has held the position of Co-Executive Director of Christians United for Israel (CUFI) alongside Diana Hagee.

However, her path to CUFI and her work in Israel advocacy can be traced back to her experiences at Camp Ramah. Shari’s love and support for Israel were nurtured and deepened during her summers at camp, particularly through engaging programs and activities that fostered a connection to the land and its people.

Prior to her role at CUFI, Shari served as the Officer for InterReligious Affairs at the Embassy

In her professional life, Shari has dedicated herself to making a significant impact within the Jewish community. of Israel in Washington, DC, and as a Foreign Policy Research Associate at the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC).

Her expertise and dedication earned her recognition in the Algemeiner newspaper’s ‘Jewish 100’ list in 2021, highlighting individuals who have made a 26

significant positive impact on Jewish life. Additionally, she was included in the Jerusalem Post’s list of the 50 Most Influential Jews in the same year. Shari’s educational background includes a Master’s in Public Administration from George Mason University and a Bachelor of Arts degree with a double major in Politics and Islamic/Middle Eastern Studies from Brandeis University.

At Brandeis, she wrote her senior

Camp Ramah in Wisconsin not only contributed to Shari’s professional path but also played a transformative role in her personal growth.

Camp Ramah in Wisconsin not only contributed to Shari’s professional path but also played a transformative role in her personal growth.

Her love and support for Israel, as well as her appreciation for Shabbat and Jewish learning, were fostered and strengthened during her time at camp.

The connections and friendships forged at Camp Ramah continue to be a source of joy and support in her life. If given the opportunity to relive one more day as a camper, Shari would choose to hang out on the Kikar, wearing sweatpants in the warm July weather. She would embark on a walk along the garbage trail, savor the taste of s’mores, write in her cherished Nothing Book, engage in crafting projects like making kippot, and simply revel in the company of her friends.

For younger Camp Ramah alumni who are embarking on their own life-journeys, Shari offers

valuable advice: stay in touch with your camp friends. The connections formed at camp can be lifelong and provide a strong support network throughout one’s personal and professional endeavors. For Shari, returning to Ramah Wisconsin recently for her Nivo reunion was an important reminder of this.

Ramah is still Shari’s Happy Place.

The camp not only fostered her love for Israel but also instilled in her a passion for Jewish life and a dedication to making a positive impact within the community. Shari’s journey serves as an inspiration to all who have experienced the transformative power of camp.

thesis on the impact of Christian Zionists on U.S. Foreign Policy.

Shari has also contributed op-eds to various publications, including the Jerusalem Post, Jewish News Syndicate (JNS), and the Times of Israel.

While Shari’s professional accomplishments are substantial, her personal life is equally fulfilling. She resides in Atlanta, Georgia, with her husband, Eric, and their two children and three beagles. Shari is a certified yoga instructor and is currently pursuing her studies in Rabbinical School at the Pluralistic Rabbinical Seminary.

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LEGACY

INVESTING IN THE FUTURE

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n endowment gift is an investment in the future of Camp Ramah in Wisconsin.

This has certainly been the legacy of Joseph and Belle Braun (z”l; may our memories of them be for a blessing).

Joseph H. Braun was an attorney who held top positions with the American Automobile AssociationChicago Motor Club as General Counsel, Vice President, Corporate Secretary and Director. He wrote the Illinois legislation that eventually became the state’s first driver license law. He served as a Chairman of the National Committee on Uniform Traffic Laws and Ordinances.

In the 1980’s, after Joseph Braun and his wife Belle passed away, Lawrence E. Glick, their long time attorney, conferred with his friend, Joseph D. Ament, about potential charitable recipients of trust funds established by the Brauns, who did not have children of their own. Mr. Glick and Mr. Ament considered organizations that had been supported by the Brauns during their lifetimes, where they had been either active or interested in their objectives. Jewish education was selected as an area on which to focus. In that regard, formal and informal education was considered within the Conservative movement, as the Brauns were members of Anshe Emet Synagogue in Chicago. Mr. Ament knew the various summer camps and the

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scope of their activities and education programs and recommended Camp Joe Ament, Nancy and Larry Glick, and Rabbi David Soloff Ramah in Wisconsin to chat with tennis coach Sophie Rafael in 2006. fulfill those objectives, which Mr. Glick existing offerings and constantly implemented, among refresh our program. other beneficiary organizations that received funds from the You too can make a gift to establish Brauns, including Anshe Emet’s a named endowment — in your religious school and an endowed lifetime or as part of your will or professorship in Jewish History at trust — that will provide a steady Brandeis University. and significant source of income to With this very generous gift, the Joseph H. and Belle R. Braun Endowment was established and became the first fund in the Camp Ramah in Wisconsin Endowment Corporation. In the past 40 years, the Camp Ramah in Wisconsin Endowment Corporation has grown to nearly $5 million and includes over 70 additional named funds created by generous alumni and friends of Ramah. These funds are permanently invested to provide income for continued support of the camp. Each year an allocation is made from the Endowment Corporation to help the camp achieve the goals the original donors set out, a combination of additional scholarship and programmatic enhancement funds that supplement tuition revenue and annual fundraising.

Since 1989, the Braun Endowment has provided resources to Camp Ramah that have pushed the camp leadership to dream beyond our

support Camp Ramah in Wisconsin’s mission. Beyond the annual uses of the income from these funds, the endowment is fundamental to Camp Ramah in Wisconsin’s long term financial health.

Are you ready to invest in Ramah’s future? Click on the QR code today to learn more about endowment and legacy giving, and view lists of Camp Ramah in Wisconsin’s named endowments and Legacy Society members.

Your generosity today will make a world of difference to tomorrow’s campers.

To learn more, contact Sam Caplan, Chief Development Officer at 312-690-8332 or scaplan@ramahwisconsin.com

OUR ISRAEL RESPONSE “ In the wake of the March I have noticed more stories, even dating back to that horrific morning of October 7th, of people finding strength in community. The bravery of individuals who, gathered with others in bomb shelters or safe rooms, threw live grenades back out at the terrorists to protect others; driving rescue missions in pickup trucks, dodging bullets and worse on trip after trip. Stories of our Jewish students in high schools and colleges finding each other and the adults — Jewish communal workers, teachers and professors, staff and administrators— who are coming to their aid. Moments of togetherness at schools, synagogues, vigils, and rallies. The astonishing yet not surprising outpouring of support from all walks of Israeli society to support soldiers, internal refugees, the wounded, the hostages, and each other. We feel vulnerability and if we look hard enough, we can see the resilient sprouts of hope all around us.”

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ince our founding in 1947, Camp Ramah in Wisconsin’s leadership has embraced a broad commitment to the Jewish people as a whole and to the State of Israel, one that always included, each and every summer, a delegation of Israeli staff. Through the decades, that delegation — our mishlachat — has grown in size and impact to include over fifty members of our summer staff and now over twenty campers who live in Israel. As our mishlachat has expanded, so too have the numbers of alumni and relatives of alumni and current Ramahniks living in Israel. We are a Midwest-based camp with a global reach, with a large and growing percentage of our Ramah community deeply bound up in relationships — of family, of friends, of peers — with Israelis.

In this time of unbearable pain, loss, and fear, we stand together as a community. We stand together to pray the words of Acheinu and to remind each other and ourselves that as we grieve together we find strength in our shared past and knowledge that we are part of something greater than ourselves. Our acute awareness as Jews of our global community makes moments like these feel unbearable; and we have the unfortunate duty of following in the footsteps of many generations of our ancestors who have weathered tragedies like this, and worse.

–Jacob Cytryn, Executive Director

Here are messages from families of Camp Ramah in Wisconsin and Ramah Day Camp in Chicago. Our entire community — especially the campers, parents, and other members of the Ramah family who wrote these words — articulate feelings of hope and support to the alumni, staff members, and friends of the camp, as well as all of the people Israel.

Send a message of support to our Israeli campers and staff

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Visit Camp in 2024!

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 THIS COMING summer: • Nivonim 1999: June 27–30, 2024 • Nivonim 1998: July 18–21, 2024 • Nivonim 1972: July 21–23, 2024 • Nivonim 1973: July 21–23, 2024 • Nivonim 2000: August 1–4, 2024 • Nivonim 1974: August 4–6, 2024

If you can’t make it for the reunion, check out these other ways to visit camp in 2024.

BRAND NEW!

Alumni Weekend: August 9–11, 2024

Alumni over 21 and their +1s, +2s, etc. are invited for a fun weekend at camp after the regular camp session closes. Experience a Ramah Shabbat and reconnect with camp friends!

Family Camp: August 14–18, 2024 Family Camp offers an opportunity to experience the magic of Camp Ramah in Wisconsin together, as a family. Our 5-day all-inclusive experience at camp is filled with sports, art, singing around the campfire and so much more!

DIY VISITS

Questions?

Email alumni@ ramahwisconsin.com for additional info

Email alumni@ramahwisconsin.com to plan your trip visit to Conover.

EXCITING ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR SUMMER 2024 This summer, we’re adding a brand-new All-Terrain Bike Park AND expanding our ropes course.

Upgrades to the ropes course will include a new climbing wall, a new vertical playpen, and we’re doubling the number of ropes elements.

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From Talia Derman, Director

As we joyously celebrated Camp Ramah in Wisconsin’s 75th summer in March 2023 and as Ramah Day Camp will celebrate its 25th summer in June 2024, I am struck by the idea of change within our camps. The delicate balance of maintaining tradition along with the desire to keep our camps updated and relevant. In Conover that balance may look like the buildings of the past — the Ohel Yitzchak synagogue and the Sifriyah (library) — against the landscape of the new sports courts and new activity offerings. Traditional Shabbat services by the lake remain while we’ve changed our approach to Jewish and Israeli cultural education. At Ramah Day Camp we are recently refurbished our beloved Beit Etz (treehouse) and also added a new Teatron (theater) stage and a new Gan Gadol (playground) dedicated to former Director Lori Stark. The tradition of the lollipop fairy handing out lollipops on Friday for a sweet Shabbat remains while we have expanded our programming offerings and updated our approach to camper and staff care.

of a Ramah summer for many is what keeps them coming back to our camps as staff members and also what compels us as adults to send our children off to begin their own Ramah journeys. But we as camp professionals must continue to strive for improvements and excellence within the camping space and that sometimes requires change.

This summer we are excited to strike the ideal balance between camp traditions and some updates and improvements that we hope will enhance the fun and excitement of a Ramah Day Camp summer. Kayitz 2024 is sure to be incredible as we joyously celebrate our 25th summer!

When I began as director of Ramah Day Camp in 2019, there were traditions that I admit I did not understand: the beloved medals and trophies given to campers as they completed each subsequent summer at camp, the tradition of the oldest campers jumping into the pool fully clothed on the last day of camp, and others.

As I spent time speaking with staff and campers, few recalled exactly how the traditions began. Even so, each could speak fondly about those traditions and others they remembered from the past. The nostalgia

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The Fun Never Stops!

SUMMER 2024 CALENDAR More choice | More flexibility | More fun FULL SEASON SESSION

Entering Grades 4 – 11 Monday, June 17 – Thursday, August 8*

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 14 & Monday, July 15

FIRST & SECOND SESSIONS

Entering Grades 4, 5 & 6 Monday, June 17 – Thursday, July 11 & Monday, July 15 – Thursday, August 8

MINI-SESSIONS & RUACH RAMAH

Entering Grade 4 Monday, June 17 – Sunday, June 30 & Monday, July 15 – Sunday, July 28 Entering Grade 3 Monday, June 17 – Sunday, June 23 or Sunday, June 30 Monday, July 29 – Sunday, August 4 or Thursday, August 8

ENROLLMENT NOW OPEN! More information: ramahwisconsin.com/dates-rates