[Congressional Record Volume 147, Number 29 (Wednesday, March 7, 2001)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E296]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                IN HONOR OF CAMP RAMAH IN THE BERKSHIRES

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                          HON. JERROLD NADLER

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, March 7, 2001

  Mr. NADLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Camp Ramah in 
the Berkshires. For over 35 years, this prestigious institution has 
provided hundreds of children in the New York and New Jersey area with 
the opportunity to explore their creative, academic, athletic and 
spiritual nature in a nurturing and motivating atmosphere.
  Located on beautiful Lake Ellis, Camp Ramah in the Berkshires 
combines educational and recreational activities that leave a lasting 
impression on its campers, reminding them long after their camp session 
ends to strive for the best in every aspect of their lives.
  There are not many places where a child can windsurf, take a computer 
class, learn how to develop pictures and act in his or her own play all 
in the same day. But at Camp Ramah in the Berkshires, it happens every 
day. Taking advantage of their surroundings, campers go on overnight 
hikes, rock climbing excursions, and sailing trips while also learning 
about the very environment they are enjoying. Classes on photography, 
woodworking, drama, music and dance serve as a creative stimulus. The 
experienced and dedicated staff act as teachers, counselors and role 
models, helping to shape children into responsible, attentive, caring 
adults.
  What further sets apart Camp Ramah in the Berkshires from other 
summer camps are the Jewish values that pervade the entire camp 
experience. Campers have 45-minute periods dedicated to Judaic Studies 
5 days a week and also undertake week-long projects in Hebrew. Campers 
join together for Shabbat meals and services, improve their 
understanding of the Hebrew language, and learn how to prepare 
traditional Jewish meals.
  Although a child may leave Camp Ramah in the Berkshires after just a 
few weeks, the camp experience never leaves the child. By the end of 
the summer campers have forged new friendships, pushed their limits and 
return home more confident, more knowledgeable and stronger in their 
faith.
  I wish Camp Ramah in the Berkshires continued success and am 
confident that the future holds nothing but excellence for the 
institution and its community.

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