posted Thursday, May 15, 2008

I write this letter in strong support of Tamarack Camps' decision to maintain its high standard of kashrut supervision ("Keeping Kosher" April 10) so that it can remain a comfortable place for Jews of all denominations, beliefs and backgrounds.

Following the joint and amiable decision to change kashrut supervision going forward, Executive Director Jonah Geller and Tamarack's board remained determined not to compromise the kosher dietary laws at Tamarack Camps. With great respect for the role played previously by the Council of Orthodox Rabbis, Geller approached the Michigan Region Rabbinical Assembly, asking for our assistance and input. This, in part, led to Geller making contact with our colleague Rabbi Jason Miller.

Rabbi Miller, who holds great affection for Tamarack from his own days as a camper, is the perfect individual to assume the position of mashgiach, a role he takes seriously and one that he is already familiar with from past experiences at the Jewish Theological Seminary and Camp Ramah. In addition to serving as mashgiach, Rabbi Miller's ability to positively impact Tamarack's already strong Jewish programming is an added bonus.

I want to applaud Jonah Geller, in particular, and all who were part of this wonderful and important decision. From start to finish, it was handled in a professional, honorable and mentshlich way. Kol Hakavod!

Rabbi Joseph H. Krakoff
Congregation Shaarey Zedek of Oakland County
past president, Michigan Regionl
Rabbinical Assembly

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