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May 2018/yar-sivan 5778 a publication of United jewish federation of Volume 20, Number 3 Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien “Immigration to the U.S. – Spring is in the Air Myth and Reality” Women’s Philanthropy Dinner Features JHS Norma and Milton Mann Lecture Author Dara Horn “When women gather beginning at 6:30 pm. Horn By Elissa Kaplan the U.S. – Myth and Reality,” together, there is an incred- will discuss her latest book, The Jewish Historical So- will be presented by nation- ible sense of leadership and “Eternal Life.” ciety of Fairfield County ally known immigration ex- friendship,” according to “I am thankful that Al- will hold the annual Norma pert Jeffrey. S. Passel, senior Tara Shapiro, president of lison Greenberg and Toby and Milton Mann Lecture, demographer at the Pew United Jewish Federation of Lazarus have stepped up to underwritten by the Mann Research Center in Wash- Greater Stamford, New Ca- chair this event, and Wendy Family Foundation to honor ington, DC. He will focus on naan and Darien’s Women’s Handler and Robin Madan the memory of their parents, the big picture of immigra- Philanthropy. will be chairing the auction. and hosted by Temple Beth El, tion, including a discussion On Thursday, May 31, Our annual spring dinner Stamford, on Sunday, June 17, of immigration history (the women are invited to gather Dara Horn is a premier UJF Women’s at 11 am. The lecture is free Jeffrey. S. Passel numbers and the laws), recent to welcome author Dara Horn Philanthropy event and I and open to the public. Light trends in both legal and un- as the keynote speaker for the Women’s know under their able leadership we refreshments will be served at 10:30 am. authorized immigration, family versus Philanthropy Annual Spring Dinner, will have a record breaking crowd, be The lecture, titled “Immigration to See “Reality” on page 12 which will be held at Temple Beth El See “Spring” on page 8 A New Study for Cancer Risk Aims A Powerful Voice on to be a Model for Genetic Testing Capitol Hill By Josefin Dolsten humans, but mutations can cause it NEW YORK (JTA) – A new study will to function improperly and increase The Impactful Work of the National provide free testing for three mutations the risk of developing certain cancers: that substantially increase the risk for breast and ovarian in women, reast and Federation Office developing breast, ovarian and prostate prostate in men. Those with Ashkenazi The United Jewish Feder- include a presentation of the cancer among people with Eastern Euro- Jewish roots are 10 times more likely to ation of Greater Stamford, Federation work and agenda pean Jewish ancestry. The BRCA Founder have a BRCA mutation than the general New Canaan and Darien will in DC, as well as a presenta- Outreach Study (or BFOR), which was population, with one in 40 carrying a welcome William Daroff, tion to the teen winners of launched recently, will test 4,000 men and mutation in the gene. senior vice president for the Goldman Essay Contest women in four U.S. cities – New York, Los But the study’s goal extends beyond public policy and director of and the Helene and Isadore Angeles, Philadelphia and Boston – for cancer or Ashkenazi Jews, said Offit, the Washington, DC, office Mark Leadership Award. mutations in the BRCA gene that are more who serves as chief of the clinical genet- of the Jewish Federations of Jewish Federations’ office common among those with Ashkenazi ics service at Memorial Sloan Kettering North America, to Stamford in Washington represents Jewish ancestry. Those who test positive for Cancer Center here. “We think it’s a on Tuesday, May 8, at 7:30 the interests and concerns one of the mutations will receive genetic model for the future of genetic testing pm, at 1035 Newfield Ave. William Daroff of 148 Jewish Federations counseling to figure out next steps. in health care,” he said. The event, which is free of and more than 300 Network The BRCA gene is found in all See “Study” on page 19 charge and open to the public, will See “Capitol” on page 12

Candle 2 Bits & Pieces 6 Words of 6 D.C. Mission 11 Voices & 18 Women’s 20 Lighting Torah Views Philanthropy

JHSC Students Celebrate AIPAC Award The Jewish High School of Connecticut’s Israel Advocacy Club advisor Ari Lieberman received the Early Engagement Exemplar Award from AIPAC at its 2018 Policy Conference in Washington, DC, in March. Eighteen JHSC students attended this year’s Conference. Pictured (l-r): Sarah Hanna, Natalie Shclover, Julia Arnowitz, Sam Terr, Brandon Rosenthal, Andrew Yakubovich, JHSC Head of School Rabbi Elisha Paul, Israel Advocacy Club advisor Ari Lieberman, Noam Haron, Gabriella Lieberman, Zoe Jaffe-Berkowitz, Logan Terr, Sarah Bernstein, Jonathan Agabs and Josh Terr. (Photo by Geff Erickson) (See article on page 19.) 2 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ MAY 2018 UJF President’s Message Putting Jewish Values into Action As I sit here and write this Rabbis and community organizations has been a Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien is all piece on April 2, we are amidst strong focus in 2018. The spring will be equally as of us – the members of our community – working yet another snowstorm. Just like busy with an event on May 8 with William Daroff, together to repair the world and to keep Jewish life the unpredictability of an April senior vice president of the JFNA DC office, and a strong and thriving. Federation is the community’s spring snow, I think about the June Mission to DC. safety net and helps strengthen Jewish identity. unpredictable, ever changing When you connect with Federation, you put the Federation cares for people in need here at home, needs in our Jewish community, Jewish values of compassion, generosity and respon- in Israel and around the world, and nurtures the both local and around the world. sibility into action. Every day, we work together to Jewish community today and for future generations. Just last week, I spent a few days improve the lives of people in our community, in Please join me in making a difference. I welcome in Jerusalem before Pesach cele- Israel and in more than 70 countries worldwide. For your thoughts and leadership, and can be reached brating a dear friend’s wedding. Ricky Arbron, generations, Federation has enabled Jews to fulfill our at [email protected]. Although this trip was for plea- UJF president obligation to take care of each other and to ensure Ricky Arbon sure, I walked the streets of Jerusalem knowing that our Jewish future. The United Jewish Federation of UJF President our Federation support was going to help so many this holiday season both in Israel, around the world and in our own backyard. The beauty of federated giving is the profound A Message from UJF’s Jewish privilege and opportunity to impact people’s lives. One Jew helping another Jew they may never know: Community Relations Council tzedakah in its truest form. I have been granted op- portunities to travel Jewishly with Federation. I have seen Jewish history and culture, but also served as an Embracing a Larger Community emissary of sorts, meeting those nameless recipients By Lauren Steinberg of our generosity. Serving a hot meal to a hungry On March 27, I was privileged to child in Ukraine, delivering medicine to a fragile attend an interfaith seder organized Holocaust survivor in Jerusalem, building a roof by the Interfaith Council of South- over the heads of a homeless family, sending youth western Connecticut, together with and teens to Israel with programs like Birthright Peter Lilienthal, chair of UJF’s Jew- that ignite a new Jewish identity, sharing a Jewish PJ ish Community Relations Council. Library book with a toddler and so much more is The seder was an opportunity for part of our impact. In fact, while in Israel this time, clergy and members of multiple I met a couple who had made aliyah through a Fed- faith and practiced traditions to eration-supported program. It made me feel like I come together and learn about and really am making a difference! from Jewish values and traditions. UJF hit the ground running in 2018 with a fabulous And it is only one of many exciting Shabbat Across Stamford, New Canaan and Darien, interfaith interactions ongoing in Community leaders at the Interfaith Seder. L-r: Rev. Mark Lingle of St. Francis a joint evening with UJA/JCC Greenwich featuring our community. Episcopal Church; Michael Hernandez, a recent Westhill High School graduate author Sima Goel, a packed legislative breakfast, Over the course of the past year, who teaches ESL classes and spoke to the group; Dr. Kareem Adeeb of the American pre-holiday outreach at Fairway which led to new PJ the JCRC has been represented at Institute for Islamic and Arabic Studies; Peter Lilienthal, chair of UJF’s JCRC; library families, an impactful Yom Hashoah program a meet and greet at a local mosque Lauren Steinberg, director of UJF’s JCRC; Catalina Horak, executive director and much more. Working with the local Board of organized by Temple Sinai, at a of Building One Community; Rabbi Joshua Hammerman of Temple Beth El; Ramadan break-fast and at an and Lisa Lynne Kirkpatrick, community initiative director of Grace Farms interfaith conversation on immi- Foundation in New Canaan. gration by members of the Jewish Correction and non-Jewish communities. UJF’s Chapter Two has the many different ways that Jews live Judaism and we In the article “Remembering Times Past” found packed Easter baskets for children participating in must engage in introspection. What are our goals? on page 6 of the March/April issue of The New Jewish UJF’s 3SQUARE program whose families could not How do we represent our community, its history Voice, the names of Clement Greenberg and Morris buy them holiday treats. And I have personally sat and its values? We are lucky to live in a community Louis were misnamed. The New Jewish Voice apologizes down with clergy from across the denominational with multiple opportunities to learn more about for the error. spectrum, including Catholic priests, ministers from our own people, including through UJF’s new adult multiple Protestant traditions and imams to establish education classes. bonds of understanding and to have frank conversa- Finally, interfaith dialogue comes with the respon- CANDLE LIGHTING tions about our communities, shared commitments sibility of shedding any preconceived stereotypes and and our values. approaching our neighbors of different faiths with TIMES Interfaith programming and dialogue has multiple the same respect and openness as we hope they are purposes. It serves to represent the Jewish community approaching us. April 27...... 7:29 pm to our neighbors, proving our shared humanity and The beautiful thing about our community is that May 4...... 7:36 pm demonstrating our values. It also provides the build- this interfaith dialogue, based on so many levels of May 11...... 7:43 pm ing block for productive partnerships that enable respect, is possible – and it is happening! As the JCRC May 18...... 7:50 pm us to better serve those in need in our midst and to continues to expand our presence in the community, work together to improve our community. we are calling on members of the community to rep- May 19...... after 8:57 pm Interfaith dialogue also comes with profound resent us at interfaith events throughout Stamford, May 20...... after 8:58 pm responsibility. To represent the Jewish community New Canaan and Darien. When you do this – when May 25...... 7:57 pm to other faiths, we must recognize fully the diver- we do this – we have a profound opportunity to create June 1...... 8:02 pm sity of our Jewish community, as well as our shared and develop strong relationships that lead to mutual communal goals. We are representatives not only of good work and can make a substantial impact on June 8...... 8:07 pm ourselves, our synagogues and organizations, but of a the lives of members of our Jewish community, our collective. And so we need to understand and respect broader Stamford, New Canaan and Darien commu- nities, and the world. Please let me know if you are interested in learning more and being a part of this exciting effort. I hope you will join us! Lauren Steinberg is the director of UJF’s Jewish Community Relations Council.

Golf and Tennis Outing Supports Youth Programs More than 100 golfers and tennis players are expected to participate in the Jewish Community Center’s 24th annual Golf and Tennis Outing on Monday, June 4, at Rockrimmon Country Club in North Stamford. Dubbed “Fore the Kids,” the outing is held each year in support of JCC early childhood education, inclusion programming, summer experiences and youth sports. The event will include morning and afternoon tennis, buffet luncheon, shotgun start for golf at 12:45 pm, and an awards banquet to end the day. Garry Feldman and Craig L. Price are serving as event co-chairs. Karen Malkin is this year’s tennis chair. For reservations or information about sponsorship opportunities, contact Shannon Jacobs at 203-487- 0965 or [email protected]. MAY 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 3 COMMUNITY NEWS Bi-Cultural “Scientists” Excel Carmel Academy Awarded at Statewide Science Fair Two National STEM Grants By Judie Jacobson in the Pfizer Life Sciences MS Team By Julie Lapin technology lab, as well as the ability Middle school “scientists” from Award for their project on “Studying Carmel Academy has been awarded to expand our school’s STEM proj- Bi-Cultural Day School in Stamford the Impact of Acid Rain and Gutter two STEM grants, both of which directly ect-based learning curriculum.” participated in the 70th Connecticut Water on the Growth of Three Plants.” support hands-on, project-based class- According to Toshiba America, its Science and Engineering Fair. Held The project also earned the two sev- room learning. foundation funds grants that sup- in March at Quinnipiac University, enth-graders a Life Sciences MS Team In February, the Toshiba America port projects designed by individual the fair showcased the research trophy, a place as Alexion Biotechnolo- Foundation awarded Carmel Acade- classroom teachers. The founda- projects produced by 647 middle gy Awards finalists and a Biotechnology my a grant to enhance the Greenwich tion’s “direct-to-teacher” approach and high school students from 120 7th Grade CSF Medallion. school’s 3D printing technology brings immediate results to teachers schools across Connecticut and parts Eighth-grader Anna Lichtenberg curriculum. and students as the grant supports of New York. took home a Petit Family Foundation “This grant enhances our ability equipment for hands-on experiments Five Bi-Cultural students were among Women in Science and Engineering to teach the design process while of- and inquiry-based approaches to the the finalists taking home awards. Award Middle School Finalist Me- fering students additional choices in curriculum. “I’m very proud of all the hard work dallion and a Future Sustainability solving problems using technology,” In addition to the technology that these young scientists put into Awards – Eversource/Energize CT said Carmel Academy Technology grant, Carmel Academy’s engineer- their research,” said Bi-Cultural middle Middle School Finalist Medallion for Coordinator Andy Greenspan. “The ing teachers were accepted into the school science teacher Christopher her project on “The Impact of Anti- funding enables Carmel to purchase Science Coaches program, an edu- Graseck. “Their use of experimental bacterial Soap on Daphnia Magna: an additional 3D printer for our cational outreach initiative jointly method was truly outstanding.” Implications for the Environment.” sponsored by the American Chemical In addition to their prizes, two The project also earned her Life Sci- See “STEM” on page 4 Bi-Cultural award winners – Zachary ences Second Honors. Isaacs and David Klein – also earned Other seventh-graders who took an invitation to compete in Broadcom home awards were Daniel Goldberg, MASTERS (Math, Applied Science, who earned Life Sciences Second Technology and Engineering Rising Honors for his project on “The Ef- Stars), a national science and engi- fect of Salt Water on Radish Growth; neering competition for middle school and Naomi Hanna, who was awarded students. Just 10 percent of the top Life Sciences Third Honors for her science projects presented at state project on “Comparing Organic and science fairs are selected for entry into Non-Organic Seeds in Filtered and the competition. Non-Filtered Water.” Isaacs and Klein won third place See “Science” on page 5

Carmel Academy eighth grade engineering Carmel Academy eighth grade engineering students Leo Asness, Gabi Stern, Parker students Annabelle Raz, Matan Kramer- Bassel and Tzvi Berman tested a prosthetic Richard and Zach Askinasi tested a different arm they built in a recent bioengineering lab. prosthetic arm.

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Bi-Cultural Day School middle school “scientists” won awards a the 2018 Connecticut Science and Engineering Fair (l-r): Anna Lichtenberg, Zachary Isaacs, Daniel Goldberg, David Klein and Naomi Hanna. Deadlines for articles The deadlines for the next two issues of The New Jewish Voice are: Monday, April 30...... June-July-August Monday, July 30...... September Send New Jewish Voice article submissions to Sandy Golove at [email protected] marked “Stamford Voice” in the subject line. Expect an acknowledgement; please re-send if you do not receive one.

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FILE: CRML_170104_NJV LAYOUT: Size Change SIZE: 4.9167 x 7.875” CLIENT: Carmel Academy PUBS: New Jewish Voice PAGE #: 1 REV #: 0 DATE: January 2017 4 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ MAY 2018 The Power of One The Power of One was the theme of Webski. The commemoration included the horrors and hate the Holocaust that one by one we can say no to this year’s Yom Hashoah commemora- the color guard presented by Boy Scout holds, also brings the message that hatred, persecution and prejudice. tion coordinated by the United Jewish Troop 15, which was sponsored by the faith, love and hope can triumph The story speaks of the power of love Federation of Greater Stamford, New Jewish War Veterans as well as members over evil,” said Diane Sloyer, UJF and encourages all that ‘One Person Canaan and Darien. Held on April 11 of Fred Robbins Post 142. CEO. “It proclaims the conviction Can Make a Difference!’” at Temple Sinai, close to 300 people Guest speaker Jeannie Opdyke gathered to remember the atrocities Smith shared the story of her mother, of the Holocaust. Irene Gut Opdyke, a Polish Catholic The annual event was planned in co- woman who risked her life to save operation with the Board of Rabbis and Jews during the Holocaust. “The chaired by Sherry Steiner and Barbara story she tells, although filled with

L-r: Avi Kwalwasser, John Zelinsky (Stamford Board of Representatives), past UJF President Ellen Weber, Connie Freeman, UJF President Ricky Arbron, guest speaker Jeannie Opdyke Smith, UJF Jewish Community Relations Council Chair Peter Lilienthal and Dani Kwalwasser.

The Bi-Cultural Day School Choir led the guests in “Hatikvah” and “Eli Eli.”

In front, at right: Ed Smith and Edith Samers were among the nearly 300 community members who attended the Yom Hashoah commemoration.

L-r: Ginette Kellner, event Chairs Sherry Steiner and Barbara Webski, survivors Guta Fischel, Luba Weinroth and Al Linder lit candles to remember those killed in the Holocaust.

L-r: Rabbi Daniel Cohen (Congregation Agudath Sholom), Rabbi Joshua Hammerman (Temple Beth El), Rabbi Jay TelRav (Temple Sinai) and Rabbi Eli Kohl (Young Israel of Boy Scouts Troop 15 and Jewish War Veterans Fred Robbins Post 142 lead the community Stamford) joined together in reciting the Mourner’s Kaddish. in the National Anthem. (Photos by Clive Salmon)

L-r: Leslie Asllani, Eileen Rosner, Rabbi Jay TelRav of Temple Sinai, Rosalea Fisher and Joan Doctor Rosenthal.

STEM Continued from page 3 Society and American Association of Chemistry Teachers. As part of acceptance into the program, Carmel was awarded a grant to enhance classroom learning for the school’s eighth grade engineering course, said Carmel Academy engineering teacher Darren Bahar. Carmel Academy’s year-long engineering course integrates hands-on, project-based engineering and technology with a full physical science curriculum. The class enables students to delve into various fields, including mechanical, materials, aerospace, bioen- gineering and computer engineering. Hands-on labs and experiments, visiting engineering experts, and experiential field trips give the students real-life engineering applications, Bahar said. The grant will fund hands-on lab experiments ranging from creating biofuel and building prosthetic hands as part of a bioengineering unit, to acid rain exploration, rocketry design and building Rube Goldberg machines, Bahar said. Carmel Academy is a recipient agency of United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. MAY 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 5 Chabad Women Host Judge Jewish Senior Services “Ruchie” Freier Spring Luncheon On Sunday, April 29, Chabad of of six and a grandmother. Siggy Flicker will be the fea- In 2016, Flicker released Stamford’s Jewish Women Connected Says Leah Shemtov, co-director of tured guest at Jewish Senior her first book, “Write Your will host a Spring Brunch in honor Chabad of Stamford, “Mrs. Freier is Services Women’s Auxiliary Own Fairytale: The New Rules of Lag B’Omer. This year’s event will an amazing speaker and an inspira- Annual Spring Luncheon and for Dating and Relationships, feature guest speaker the Honorable tion for women everywhere.” Boutique on Monday, May 7, and Finding Love on Your Rachel “Ruchie” Freier. The brunch will be held at at The Waterview in Monroe, Terms” (Penguin Random Freier is a New York City criminal Chabad of Stamford, 770 High CT. Flicker is a relationship ex- House). She is currently a cast court judge. In 2016, she was elected Ridge Rd., beginning at 10:15 am. pert, motivational speaker, TV member on the eighth season as a civil court judge for the Kings The fee for the event is $54 at the personality and author. The of Bravo’s reality television County Fifth Judicial District in New door ($36 JWC members) and is for event is co-chaired by Sarah series “The Real Housewives York state, becoming the first Chasidic women only. Event chairs are Judy Brown Goldstein of New York of New Jersey.” When not film- Jewish woman to hold public office in Contente, Debra Faizakoff, Elexis City and Martha Zuckman of Siggy Flicker (Photo ing, Flicker continues to tour United States history. Silverman, Kimmie Warmflash and Southport. by Jessielyn Palumbo the country as a motivational Additionally, Freier is a certified Shushannah Walshe. “Flicker, known for her Photography) speaker where audiences are EMT who spearheaded the first wom- For more information, e-mail pro- straightforward and outspo- said to find her energy infec- en’s only ambulance service, Ezras [email protected] or visit ken style, has always been the friend tious and inspiring. Nashim in Boro Park. She is a mother www.StamfordChabad.org. who others turn to for no-nonsense yet “We are thrilled to have Siggy Flicker nurturing relationship advice,” said join the Women’s Auxiliary to help us Goldstein. “She turned her natural raise awareness and support for Jewish Living an Orthodox Life in talents and true passion into a full Senior Services. As this year’s guest time career by joining Model Quality speaker, Siggy’s high energy, enthusi- Introductions, where she quickly rose asm for individuality and spunk is sure the Modern World to vice president of the matchmaking to be a hit!” comments Goldstein. By Michael Feldstein can embrace all the oppor- division. Flicker then graduated to TV, A boutique is also part of the event, Dr. Rivka Press Schwartz, tunities open to them and radio and print platforms, where she which will include a range of local and the associate principal of better prepare themselves shares her message of self-assurance and regional vendors with items, including general studies at SAR High and their children for the empowerment with a wide audience.” jewelry, clothing, gift accessories and School, will be the featured moments they may have to Her professional opinion has been more. (For an updated list of vendors, speaker at this year’s Schol- make choices that declare sought out by a variety of TV programs, go to www.jseniors.org/Foundation/ ar-in-Residence Series, to their values. including “The Today Show,” “Dr. Phil,” Special Events.) be held on four Wednesday On May 2, Schwartz will ad- “Access Hollywood,” “NBC Morning For almost 50 years, the Women’s nights, at Congregation Agu- dress the topic “Power, Privi- News” and more. She’s also spoken out Auxiliary has been dedicated to helping dath Sholom. lege and Parsha,” using Torah as a relationship authority on numerous maintain Jewish Senior Services stan- The theme of her sessions sources from Deuteronomy syndicated radio shows throughout the dards of excellence, ensuring services will be “Living an Orthodox Dr. Rivka Press to compare to modern-day country, and provided commentary on and funding programming that directly Life in the Modern World.” Schwartz terminology used to discuss celebrity relationships for publications benefits the lives of its 330 residents. The dates of the four presentations will the topics of power and privilege. from US Weekly, In Touch Weekly and For further information about the be April 25, May 2, May 9 and May 23. On May 9, Schwartz will address The Huffington Post to an advice col- Annual Spring Luncheon and Bou- Each presentation will begin at 8 pm. the topic “Why We Don’t Like to Talk umn with Marie Claire titled “Single tique, contact Susan Freed at 203-365- “We are delighted to be able to About Kedusha... and Why We Should.” with Siggy.” 6407 or [email protected]. bring Dr. Schwartz to our community She will talk about how people can be for four power-packed sessions,” said uneasy with the idea of kedusha (sancti- Ronnie Sichel, who is chairing the ty), which may seem very removed from series. “Dr. Schwartz is a thoughtful their lives, and how they can reframe and articulate Jewish educator, with an and reclaim this Jewish value. extensive background in both Judaic Finally, on May 23, Schwartz will and secular studies. We are proud to address the topic of “Disagreeing be able to continue our shul’s tradition Without Delegitimizing,” drawing on a of bringing the finest scholars to our range of sources – from Rabbi Aharon community to speak.” Lichtenstein to Yehuda Amichai – to On April 25, Schwartz will address argue that people can hold strongly the topic “Toward a Modern Orthodox to their beliefs and positions while still Ethic of Sacrifice.” She will discuss recognizing the values that motivate how contemporary Orthodox Jews See “Modern” on page 8

Science Continued from page 3 Supported by the state’s academic work. “We are so proud of the time and and industrial organizations, the energy our students put into this expe- purpose of the fair “is to teach young rience,” she said, “and we look forward people how science works and how it to their continued contributions to the can be used to discover and predict,” scientific community.” says Graseck. Bi-Cultural Day School is a recipient Bi-Cultural Head of School Jackie agency of United Jewish Federation of Greater Herman lauded students for their hard Stamford, New Canaan and Darien.

ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 6 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ MAY 2018 bits and pieces By Sandy Golove Shira and Jon Waldstreicher on the Debby Goldberg, Alan Colner and Lisa Linzer on the loss of her father, To submit infor- birth of a daughter; grandparents are Leonard Colner on the loss of their Rabbi Herschel Lazaros. mation to Bits and Sandi and Stu Waldstreicher. mother, Ruth Colner. Risa Pollack on the loss of her moth- Pieces, call 203-912- Chani and Rabbi Oran Zweiter on David Harrison on the loss of his er, Marian Sotsky. 9945, or e-mail me at the birth of a son, Netanel Dov Zeiter; sister, Sherrie Hope Harrison Waters. Saiid Rastegar on the loss of his [email protected]. grandparents are Hadassah Kovacs, Kim Hittman on the loss of her father, Jacob Rastegar. WELCOME TO Sara Leah and Menachem Kovacs, and mother, Marilyn Krueger. Noel Robin on the loss of his brother, GROWING FAMILIES: Chana and Stuart Zweiter. Dean Kaplan on the loss of his moth- George Robin. Min and Matthew MAZEL TOV TO: er, Maxine Kaplan. Rivka Lieber, Hinda Rosenbaum and Cohen on the birth of a son, Noah Song Rabbi Daniel Cohen on receiving Debbie Lese on the loss of her father, Sara Ward on the loss of their mother, Cohen; grandparents are Phyllis and first place for non-fiction adult books Harold Brandwene. Lillian Wasserman. Gary Gladstein. in the 2018 Connecticut Press Club Donna Lennard, Jennifer Lennard, Meredith Schyeine on the loss of her Hofit and Ari Indyk on the birth of Communications Contest. Stacey Lennard and Wendy Lennard on father, Gerald Schultz. a son; grandparents are Diane Indyk Pam Ehrenkranz and Matt Green- the loss of their father, Gerald Lennard. Howard Wolfe and Shulamit Wolfe and Rob Indyk. berg on the engagement of Pam’s Sally Levene on the loss of her hus- on the loss of their father, Marvin Isabelle and Ben Jacobson on the birth daughter, Allison Zur, to Ron Schmid. band, Martin Levene. Wolfe. of a daughter, Ella Karu Jacobson; grand- Debbie and Lou Ferri on the mar- parents are Margie and Bob Abrams, riage of their son, Mickey Ferri, to and Sally Wasserman and Henry Hecht. Kendra Hailey. words of torah Michal and Rabbi Levi Mendelow Ari and Rica Lieberman on the on the birth of a son. marriage of Ari’s daughter, Daniella Only Our Children Can Guarantee Eileen and Harold Orlow on the Lieberman, to David Neifeld; and to birth of their granddaughter, Jade grandmother Yospa Leiberman. Our Future Nicole Smith. Nancy and Gadi Mimoun on the By Rabbi Levi Mendelow important. The Jewish people only Rebecca and Evan Rakowitz on the engagement of their daughter, Bari How can we guarantee that Jewish exists today because for more than birth of a son, Evan Joseph Rakowitz; Mimoun, to Stephen Youdeem. life will continue to thrive in future 3,000 years and hundreds of genera- grandparents are Julie and Leonard Ra- Malya and Rabbi Zalman Shmotkin generations in our community? How tions, our ancestors chose to remain kowitz; and great-grandparents are Rhea on the engagement of their son, Me- can we best invest our time and tzedakah Jews, often under the most difficult and Alan Comen, and Phyliss Rakowitz. nachem Mendel Shmotkin, to Shterna dollars to ensure a rich future for Jewish of circumstances. It is very important Nikki and Evan Ratner on the birth Sara Dubov, of Princeton, NJ. Stamford, New Canaan and Darien? I to remember and honor the past. But of a son, Ryan Oliver Ratner; grandpar- MAZEL TOV TO B’NAI MITZVAH: believe that a famous midrash about that won’t be enough to ensure that ents are Lori and Stuart Ratner; and Cameron Avery Birnbaum and Jor- the giving of the Torah on Shavuot Judaism survives. Our ancestors cannot great-grandmothers are Edythe Lavine dan Stacey Birnbaum, grandchildren provides the answer. guarantee the future. and Thelma Ratner. of Charlotte and Manny Birnbaum. The midrash says that before giving People often turn to Jewish leaders Danielle Rein and Ari Jort on the Karenna Birns, granddaughter of the Torah to the Children of Israel, – rabbis, politicians and the lay lead- birth of a son; grandparents are Esther Barbara and Stan Friedman. God asked them for guarantors. “Who ership – and expect the leadership to and Harvey Rein. Max Katchko, son of Robert and will ensure that this heavenly treasure provide the answers. “If we would only Ariella and Avi Rubel on the birth of Karen Katchko. will be preserved? Who will guarantee have strong Jewish leadership, then a son, Michael Yitzchak Rubel; grand- Moshe Chaim Shapiro, son of Esti that Judaism will survive?” Judaism would thrive.” Better rabbis, parents are Jackie and Efriam Bartfeld, and Yitzie Shapiro; grandparents are “Our forefathers will guarantee it,” better teachers, better principals in and Hedy and Steven Rubel. Lillian and Sandy Shapiro. the people replied. But God rejected our schools or new boards in our Rachel and Daniel Schilowitz on the Hannah Shaw, daughter of Rebecca their guarantors. Ancestors are good shuls. But, the midrash counsels, our birth of a daughter, Malka Emunah and Tim Shaw. for the past, but not for the future. prophets (meaning our leaders) are Schilowitz; grandparents are Shelley Isabel Sigman, daughter of Rebecca The Jewish people tried again. “Our not suitable guarantors. and Jeff Cooper, and Tobi and Alan and Eric Sigman; grandparents are prophets will guarantee for us,” they So who will guarantee the future? Schilowitz; and great-grandmother is Doris and Elliot Weiss. said. But again, God was not convinced. Only our children. Only by investing Cora Schilowitz. CONDOLENCES TO: Finally, the Jewish people said, “Ba- in our children, by transmitting to Jennie and Josh Small on the birth Belle-Ann Abrams on the loss of both neinu areivim ba’adeinu. Our children them the beauty, depth and joy of our of a son; grandparents are Miriam and her mother, Iris Abrams, and her father, will guarantee for us!” And with that, tradition, can we ensure that Judaism Gideon Pell. Murry Abrams. God gave them the Torah. will thrive. Stacy and Lee Soffer on the birth Bob Abrams on the loss of his father, There are very important lessons This month we will celebrate the of a son. Harold Abrams. from this midrash. Ancestors are very See “Future” on page 8 Betsy and Mike Stone on the birth Karen Alter-Reid on the loss of her of their granddaughter, Sydney Micah mother, Estelle Schutzman. Reese. Larry Berger on the loss of his broth- from schoke jewish Heather and Ben Susman on the er, Herbert Alfred Berger. birth of a daughter, Brooke Eva Susman. Susan Berger on the loss of her family service Shelley Taylor and David Swerdloff brother, Dr. Marty Berger. on their birth of their granddaughter, Alan Bloom, Carol Bloom Kaplan, Your Brain Needs Exercise, Too! Ella Marguerite Remlin. Gary Bloom and Richard Bloom on By Dr. Toby Lazarus and individual sessions are Shelley Taylor and David Swerdloff the loss of their mother, Pearl Halle Ever have a word at the tip available in your home. These on their birth of their grandson, Aiden Bloom. of your tongue, but you just interactive programs engage Dean Moreno. Eric Bouris on the loss of his father, can’t remember it? Or forget the mind in thoughtful ways. Peter Remi Bouris. why you walked into a room Word play, puzzles, memory UJF Tribute Cards are a Gayle Dembling-Bell on the loss of or where you placed your games and problem-solving ac- her father, Irving Dembling. car keys? tivities can enhance your brain wonderful way to connect Evelyn Fowler on the loss of her Memory, problem solving, power, and are fun ways to with your family and friends sister, Mildred Frank. attention and processing Dr. Toby Lazarus challenge yourself. Strategies and mark any occasion while Bach-Yen Garner, Natalie Garner, speed are some of the cog- for improving your skills are Adam, Garner, Robin Garner and Da- nitive functions that can decline with also discussed during these sessions and supporting the extraordinary vid Garner on the loss of her husband age. As we grow older, leave school and participants share which techniques work of UJF. To send a tribute, and their father, Alan Garner. retire, we are no longer learning new they find most effective. Being able to go to www.ujf.org. Karen Gault-Welt on the loss of her material and stimulating the brain. The find multiple ways to problem solve father, John F. Gault. brain, similar to a muscle, needs to be and approach tasks improves mental used or it will not function optimally. flexibility, as well. The sessions are Eating a healthy diet and exercising are designed for a range of ages and abil- some of the ways to maintain a healthy ities, which can be adjusted based on brain. But the brain is also remarkably the participants. You are never too old nimble and new connections can be or too young to stimulate your brain. created regardless of age. Engaging The next Brain Fitness session will the brain in innovative ways in a variety take place at the JCC on Monday, April of cognitive areas can help create new 30, from 10:30 am-noon, and will focus connections between neurons and in- on memory and recall. A second session crease mental acuity. Diversifying the with a separate focus on attention will cerebral activities in which you engage take place on Monday, June 11, from is key to your overall brain health. 10:30 am-noon, also at the JCC. Par- Schoke JFS offers a Brain Fitness ticipants may attend either or both of program that targets a variety of cog- these classes. The cost of each session nitive areas to help stimulate the brain. is $8 for JCC members and $10 for Memory skills, visual-spatial skills, non-members. If you would like to organizational skills and attention are register or need more information, some of the cognitive areas that the contact Lazarus at [email protected] program addresses with the goal of or Connie Freeman at cfreeman@ providing a mental workout for the stamfordjcc.org. brain. Facilitated by Dr. Toby Lazarus, Dr. Toby Lazarus is the Schoke JFS brain group sessions are offered at the JCC fitness coordinator. MAY 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 7 A Celebration of Community and Shabbat On the evening of March 9, Jews opportunity to hear about the future across the denominational spectrum of American Judaism from Professor came together in celebration of Jonathan Sarna of Brandeis Univer- Shabbat at Shabbat Across Stamford, sity. UJF expressed its gratitude to New Canaan and Darien. The event, event Co-chairs Linda Spilka and Nan At right, l-r: Event sponsor Mark sponsored by United Jewish Feder- Gordon, to the Board of Rabbis, and Schwartz and Ed Smith caught up. ation together with the Stamford to corporate sponsor Mark Schwartz Board of Rabbis, included Progressive of Schwartz and Associates LLC, as and Orthodox services, a traditional well as to BevMax Wine and Liquor shabbat dinner, lively singing and the Superstore.

L-r: Ricky Arbron, UJF president; event Chair and UJF Vice President of Education Nan L-r: Sharon Franklin, Meryl Japha, Eileen Rosner, Jamie Morvitz, Carl and Arlene Rosen, Gordon; event Chair Linda Spilka; and UJF CEO Diane Sloyer. Ellen Weber and Edith Samers geared up to welcome guests.

L-r: David and Beverly Stein, David and Meryl Gordon, Stephne and Kerrin Behrend, The community welcomed Shabbat together. Malerie Yolen-Cohen and Jeff Cohen joined in celebrating Shabbat together.

ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 8 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ MAY 2018 Were There Really Jewish Farmers in mazel tov to area Connecticut? professionals By Elissa Kaplan and became a teacher in West Hart- In the 1890s, Connecticut Yan- ford. Louis and Dora’s sons, Meyer Bi-Cultural’s Rabbi Tzachi Posner kees wanted to sell their rocky farms. and Benjamin, began running the Selected for Leadership Program In what was called a surprising twist, farm in the 1930s. Their daughter, Rabbi Tzachi Posner, a mid- Jews who were fleeing Czarist Russia Zelda, divided her time between dle school Judaics studies teach- were involved in a “back to the land teaching school in Lebanon and er at Bi-Cultural Day School, has movement.” It was thought that turn- working the farm with her parents been selected to join the fifth ing shtetl refugees into farmers was and brothers. Family members will cohort of the Legacy Heritage the best way to help them become attend to discuss their family farm. Teacher Institute in Israel. productive, self-sufficient Ameri- The Himmelstein Homestead A fully-funded educational cans. Funded by the German-Jewish Farm is the now the only active leadership program of the Roth- philanthropist Baron Maurice de Jewish farm in the area, owned berg International School of Hirsch, a Jewish agricultural revival and operated by a third-generation Hebrew University of Jerusalem, ultimately settled a thousand Jewish family member, and may be the the Legacy Heritage Teacher In- families in rural Connecticut. The oldest Jewish family-owned farm in stitute is designed to equip expe- Rabbi Tzachi Posner Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield Connecticut. Lebanon has been an rienced classroom teachers with County and Stamford Hadassah will agricultural community from the the skills to lead their schools in the implementation show a documentary about these time of the first settlements in the of educational initiatives. The Institute begins with a farmers, “Harvesting Stones,” on Meyer and Eva Himmelstein worked 1690s. In the years between the Civil 14-day summer seminar at Hebrew University, where Wednesday, May 23, at Temple Sinai, on the farm in 1946. War and World War I, the town be- participants are guided by experienced mentors and 458 Lakeside Dr., Stamford. The came populated by immigrants from learn from world leaders in Jewish education. program will start at 7 pm, and is free and open to many countries. According to Lebanon Historical A core component of the program is the undertak- the public. Refreshments will be served. Reservations Society records, by 1926, there were as many as 74 ing of an educational initiative that participants will are recommended. Jewish family farms in the town. bring back to their schools. Working with a mentor Using historic footage, home movies and Yid- For more information, contact the Jewish Histor- throughout the course of the school year, participants dish-language farm journals, as well as testimony ical Society of Fairfield County, “Bridging Yesterday learn a step-by-step approach to bring the idea to from participants – including survivors of Russian and Tomorrow,” at 203-321-1373, ext. 150, or info@ implementation. Participants then regroup in May pogroms and the Holocaust – the documentary jhsfc-ct.org or visit its website http://jhsfc-ct.org. for the Teacher Institute Colloquium. “Harvesting Stones” presents the little-known story of The Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield County is a Upon successfully completing the program, Rabbi the American Jewish pioneers who established farms recipient agency of United Jewish Federation of Greater Posner will receive a Certificate in Jewish Educational and mini-agricultural resorts in Eastern Connecticut Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. Leadership from Hebrew University. from the 1890s to the mid-1900s. The Himmelstein Homestead Farm is more than 100 years old. It was one of the first Jewish family remembering times past farms to be established in Lebanon, CT. It was started by Louis Himmelstein, who came to New York in the Sholem Asch (November 1, 1880-July 10, 1957) 1890s to escape economic hardship and religious By Larry Ginsberg Jewish practice of ritual circumcision. discrimination in Russia, and moved to Lebanon in Sholem Asch, the prolific and controversial Pol- Asch traveled to Palestine in 1908 and to the U.S. 1903 with his parents and five siblings. On April 1, ish-Jewish novelist, dramatist and essayist, was both in 1910, where, in 1920, he became a citizen. In 1911, 1913, Louis and his wife, Dora (Zatorensky), moved revered and reviled. Asch introduced the concepts he wrote in support of Jewish settlement in Palestine. to their own farm off Route 207 with the help of of “soil romanticism,” mysticism and passion to Yid- Between 1913 and 1919, Asch concentrated on writ- the Jewish Agriculture and Industrial Aid Society, a dish literature and initiated it into the mainstream ing some of the earliest historical novels in modern subsidiary of the Baron de Hirsch Fund. They raised of European and American culture. Yiddish. While residing in the U.S., Asch became a four children, only one of whom moved off the farm Asch was born into a Chasidic family in Kutno, regular contributor to the American Yiddish news- Russian Poland, and received a traditional Jewish ed- paper the forverts and a founder of the American ucation. Due to parental disapproval, Asch relocated Jewish Joint Distribution Committee. Spring Continued from page 1 to Wloclawek to pursue secular studies. He moved Following World War I, Asch returned to Poland inspired by a wonderful speaker, meet new friends to Warsaw in 1900 where he wrote his first Yiddish and then moved to France. After revisiting Palestine and reconnect with others and raise crucial funds to story, “Moyshele,” followed by a volume of Hebrew in 1936, Asch returned to settle in Stamford, CT, in support the Federation annual campaign. Creating stories. I.L. Peretz, the influential Yiddish author, 1938. During World War II, Asch wrote letters to community is at the core of UJF’s mission and I am encouraged Asch to write only in Yiddish. In 1903, prominent non-Jews, including President Franklin so honored that WP brings our community together Asch married Mathilde Shapiro, daughter of the D. Roosevelt, to aid European Jewry and challenge through the spring dinner,” said Shapiro. poet Menahem Mendel Shapiro. Marriage brought Great Britain’s anti-Jewish immigration policy. Horn received her Ph.D. in comparative literature Asch financial security, enabling him to focus on his From 1939-1949, Asch wrote a trilogy “The Naza- from Harvard University in 2006, studying Hebrew writing. His first major work “A Shtetl” was published rine,” “The Apostle” and “Mary” in which he sought and Yiddish. In 2007, she was chosen by Granta mag- in 1904. Though written in the period prior to 1905 reconciliation between Judaism and Christianity. The azine as one of 20 “Best Young American Novelists.” Russian Revolution, the story focused on the peace Forverts dropped him as a contributor, attacking him Her first novel, “In the Image,” published by W.W. and harmony of a traditional Jewish lifestyle. for promoting Christianity. Many Jews reviled Asch, Norton when she was 25, received a 2003 National Asch was not your typical Eastern European Yiddish resulting in “an estrangement between Asch, Yiddish Jewish Book Award, the 2002 Edward Lewis Wallant author; he was cosmopolitan and highly influenced Literature and the Jewish Community.” Yet another Award and the 2003 Reform Judaism Fiction Prize. by the Haskalah (the 19th century period of Jewish controversy ensued when Asch was accused of reject- Her second novel, “The World to Come,” received enlightenment). He wrote four major Yiddish plays ing his orphaned nephews following the Holocaust. the 2006 National Jewish Book Award for Fiction between 1904 and 1913. His most controversial play, During the last 10 years of his life, Asch returned to and the 2007 Harold U. Ribalow Prize, and was “God of Vengeance,” written in 1907 and set in a Jewish themes and settings. On April 30, 1954, Rabbi selected as an Editors’ Choice in The New York brothel, was deemed by many as obscene. In the first David Pearlman of Temple Beth El Stamford stated Times Book Review. of many public controversies, Asch condemned the that “Sholem Asch the man must not be judged as Her third novel, “All Other Nights,” published in Sholem Asch the author. Although Asch wrote on 2009, was selected as an Editors’ Choice in The New much of Christianity and refused to comment or York Times Book Review and was one of Booklist’s Future Continued from page 6 criticize it, he remained a Jew.” Asch moved to Flor- 25 Best Books of the Decade. holiday of Shavuot, on which we commemorate the ida, then Israel in 1955. He died on July 10, 1957, Her fourth novel, “A Guide for the Perplexed,” revelation at Sinai and the giving of the Torah. in London, England. published in 2013, was selected as one of Booklist‘s On the first day of Shavuot, we will read the Ten Larry Ginsberg is a board member of the Jewish Historical Best Books of 2013 and was long-listed for the Car- Commandments from the Torah. It is probably the Society of Fairfield County. negie Medal for Excellence in Fiction. most important Torah reading of the year. The Ten The Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield County is a Horn has taught courses in Jewish literature and Commandments were God’s direct communication recipient agency of United Jewish Federation of Greater Israeli history at Sarah Lawrence College and City to the entire nation. Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. University of New York, and was a visiting professor in Generally, Torah reading is an adult activity. Jewish studies at Harvard, where she taught Yiddish Children don’t usually stay inside the synagogue and Hebrew literature. while the Torah is being read. But on Shavuot there Modern Continued from page 5 The cost for the evening, which includes a raf- is a beautiful custom to bring even the youngest those who hold other points of view. fle, silent auction, buffet dinner and dessert, and children to the synagogue to hear the Ten Com- Schwartz has spent close to 20 years in the field remarks by Horn, is $95 with registration through mandments. And when we do, we give them an of Jewish secondary education. She earned her B.A. Monday, May 14 , and $125 beginning Tuesday, May unforgettable message. “You are our guarantors! in physics and history of science at Case Western Re- 15. The cost for Young Women, ages 13-18, is $75. If not for you, we would never have received the serve University. She earned her M.A. and Ph.D. from Event sponsorship is priced at $360 and includes Torah in the first place. You are the most important Princeton University, writing her dissertation about the a signed copy of Horn’s new book, “Eternal Life.” members of our communities!” cultural history of the Manhattan Project. In addition More information can be found on the UJF website This custom reminds us and our children to invest to teaching high school, she has served as an adjunct at www.ujf.org/springdinner. Registration can be in their Jewish education, and that Jewish education professor of history at Yeshiva and Stern colleges. She completed online, along with pre-purchase of raffle for our children is our primary personal and com- lectures both on the history of science and on Jewish tickets and a peek at a continuously updated list of munal priority. topics, frequently addressing issues of contemporary auction items. For only our children can guarantee our future. importance in the American Jewish community. For more information, contact Diane Sloyer at Rabbi Levi Mendelow is the spiritual leader of Chabad The classes are free and open to the whole 203-321-1373, ext. 105. New Canaan. community. MAY 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 9 An Evening of Mind Games Strengthening Our with Schoke JFS Connections to Israel On Sunday, April 29, the tickets; and concert tickets to On March 18-19, communities P2G connects 450 Jewish and Israeli Elayne and James Schoke Earth, Wind and Fire. from all over the globe gathered in communities in 46 city-to-city and Jewish Family Service will Following the dinner, Newark, NJ, for a Partnership2Geth- region-to-region partnerships, engag- hold its annual gala, An Eve- Jon Stetson, the inspiration er Conference. The Jewish Agency’s ing more than 350,000 participants ning with Schoke JFS, at 5:30 for the CBS series “The Partnership2Gether Peoplehood each year in ongoing connections pm, at the Hilton Stamford Mentalist,” will entertain Platform (previously known as Partner- between Israelis and Jews around the Hotel. Jeri Appel and Gail guests. The evening’s events ship 2000) is said to have become the world, through programs and one-on- G. and Stephen Trell will will be hosted by master of paradigm for successfully partnering one encounters. be the recipients of the 39th ceremonies Alan Kalter. The global Jewish communities directly Partnership platforms seek to con- annual Mitzvah Award, and evening is co-chaired by Liz with Israeli communities. The United nect the global Jewish family, increase F. Robb Caster will receive Kitay and Ronnie Sichel, Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, Jewish identity and strengthen Israeli the 12th Young Leadership and the auction is chaired New Canaan and Darien is part of the society. In addition, partnerships serve Jon Stetson Award, honoring their by Sandy Speter. Southern New England Consortium as “living bridges” to Israel, creating dedication to the community. The General tickets include dinner, the and partners with the Afula-Gilboa friendships and an understanding of evening will begin with appetizers, a show and a dessert reception for $180. region in the north of Israel. life in the Jewish state. silent auction and cocktails, followed Tickets to attend only the show and by dinner, presentation of awards and dessert reception are $65. Call Lisa a live auction. Rich at 203-921-4161 or visit www.ctjfs. At right: Nancy Mimoun, Auction items will include tickets to org for more information. current UJF Co-Campaign Broadway plays “Hamilton” and “Dear Schoke Jewish Family Service is a recipient chair, past UJF president Evan Hansen”; a vacation getaway to St. agency of United Jewish Federation of Greater and past chair of SNEC; John, Virgin Islands; Yankee and Mets Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. Andrea Arbel, director of Partnership2Gether; and Diane Sloyer, UJF CEO, Spring Celebrations for kicked off the celebration of Israel’s 70th birthday. Reading Partners The Herbert and Sarah M. Gibor copies. The Reading Partner volunteers Reading Partners, a program of United in each school also share a year-end Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, celebration with their students. At the New Canaan and Darien, is ready to celebration, each child receives a book celebrate spring. The warmer months and certificate in acknowledgment of mark another school year coming to a their hard work and participation in the close, and Reading Partners’ comple- program. “It is an exciting way to cel- tion of its 19th year in the Stamford pub- ebrate the progress the children have lic schools and after-school programs. made over months of weekly meetings “There is much to celebrate and rec- with their Reading Partner,” said Fogel. ognize, and it is wonderful to do so with While volunteers and students do Nancy Mimoun (seated at table) and fellow conference participants engaged in workshops the program’s volunteers, school staff not meet when school is not in session, at the P2G conference. and student participants,” said Lenore the summer months are considered Fogel, director of Reading Partners. an important time for the program. Wednesday, May 23, is the date for New volunteers are welcome for the this year’s annual volunteer breakfast, 2018-2019 school year. Those interested and will feature speaker Tish Rabe. in volunteering are asked to contact She is a best-selling children’s book Lenore Fogel at readingpartners@ujf. author who has written more than 160 org or 203-321-1373, ext. 115, for more children’s books, including “The Cat information. in the Hat’s Learning Library,” a series Reading Partners is a program of of nonfiction Dr. Seuss science books, the United Jewish Federation of Greater which have sold more than four million Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. Families are Talking about Day Camps@The J “I can’t wait for camp, and I want to go new campers to dive deeper into activ- to camp even more this summer,” said first ities they are passionate about. grade camper Clare (last name withheld). “As a JCC mission-based program Day Camps@The J has created buzz rooted in Jewish values and ideals, the from last summer. “People are talking Stamford JCC is proud to work with the about the incredible experience they Jewish Agency for Israel and its Summer had in 2017 and are more excited than Shlichim Program to welcome shlichim ever for 2018! Campers are talking (Israeli emissaries) to Day Camps@The about the fun activities, the memora- J and the community. Over the course ble special events, color war and the of the summer, the shlichim bring the amazing friends they made. Parents are culture and energy of Israel into every- talking about the life skills and growth one’s life in fun and engaging ways,” they saw in their campers over the sum- said JCC CEO Marshall Kurland. mer, as well as the return of staff who To learn more about Day Camps@ are amazing role models. These things The J’s program flexibility, and why have made Day Camps@The J one of Clare loves camp so much, visit the the most exciting summer camps in the new website at www.daycampsatthej. area. This summer, we have big plans org, or contact Samuel at 203-487-0973 for new activities, facilities and specialty or [email protected]. programs,” said Jason Samuel, director The Stamford JCC and Day Camps@ of Day Camps@The J. The J welcome children of all faiths, Day Camps@The J is offering 16 spe- ethnicities, abilities and backgrounds. cialty camps this season. New STEAM- Programs are designed to impart a based programs include Digital Comics sense of fulfillment and excitement to Creation, Drone Racing, Sculpture children, while seeking to lead them Racing and more. For children who on a path toward an active, social and want an outdoor adventure experience, healthy future. Day Camps@The J is partnering with Day Camps@The J is located on New Jersey Y Camps on an immersive Newfield Avenue at the intersection overnight camping experience. Re- of Vine Road in Stamford. turning art and sports specialty camps, The JCC is a recipient agency of United highlighted by the What a Production! Jewish Federation of Stamford, New Canaan theater camp, will allow returning and and Darien. ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 10 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ MAY 2018 MAY 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 11 12 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ MAY 2018 Reality vs. Attitudes About Aging – #DisruptAging Workshop By Isrella Knopf, LMSW on Wednesday, June 6, at 6:45 pm, to expect to live another 30-plus years. derful to be young. It must also become a There is good news and bad news. explore each other’s perceptions on Statistics show 10,000 people in the country where it is wonderful to be old.” The good news is more people are liv- aging. Those attending will learn about U.S. turn 65 every day and that will “We need to shake up our dated ing longer, healthier and having more research, personal stories and tools to continue to happen every day for the beliefs,” said Jenkins. “Let’s work productive lives. The bad news is most start the conversation to #DisruptAging. next 14 years. A 10-year-old today has together to shine a light on ageist at- people don’t see it that way. There are “It is time to change that negative a 50 percent chance of living to be 104 titudes. When we change perceptions many negative attitudes and stereotypes thinking and to “Disrupt Aging” as years old. we can change the culture. Be part of about aging or about people of a certain individuals, institutions and collectively “If we are going to live that long, what the conversation to spark new solutions age. “He is too old to learn all this new as a society,” said JoAnn Jenkins, the would we like to do differently? What so people can choose how they want to technology” and “I’m too old to wear author of “Disrupt Aging” and CEO does it mean to ‘age’? Is it something live and age.” these clothes,” are common statements of AARP. “Aging is not about denying to be dreaded and feared, or should it Pre-registration for the workshop across the community. age, but owning it and embracing the be embraced as a new opportunity? We is required by calling 1-877-926-8300, Community members are invited to opportunities to live our best life as pos- should be judged by who we are and or registering online at https://aarp. join Elayne and James Schoke Jewish sible at every age. We need to advance what we do not by how old we are,” cvent.com/d/ctqhbf/. Family Service of Fairfield County and new ideas to help people prepare for said Jenkins. Schoke Jewish Family Service is a recipient the Stamford JCC in collaboration longer lifespans.” The founder of AARP, Ethel Percy, agency of United Jewish Federation of Greater with AARP in a 90-minute workshop Most people turning 50 today can said, “This is a country where it is won- Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. Jewish War Veterans Honor Area Jewish Teens By Sharon Franklin Pollarded Tree children with special needs. An active On April 24, the Jewish War Veter- Garden. He has member of Temple Beth El, Young ans held the annual Community Ser- served as BBYO tutors students in Hebrew and cultural vice Scholarship Awards event at the VP of commu- Judaism, taught pre-kindergarten stu- Stamford Crowne Plaza. Scholarships nity service and dents, and prepared students for bar are awarded by the Fred Robbins Post communica- and bat mitzvah. She is a BBYO leader, 142 to high school seniors who have tions. He has raising money and awareness for sui- made a significant contribution to the volunteered cide prevention, veterans’ causes, and Stamford community and are given in at Brighton hunger and childhood illness preven- honor of Stamford veterans who have Gardens, the tion. At Stamford High, she is VP of the served their country and community. Stamford Friendly Faces Club, which welcomes Since 2005, 62 scholarships have been Thanksgiving and coordinates programs for special given out, totaling more than $380,000. Day Parade, Marissa Young Josh Appel Will Gold needs students, and is a student mentor Three community teens who were and prepared for the Leadership Academy, which among the 2018 scholarship recipi- and delivered food to the Pacific with animal care and farm maintenance helps guide the social and academic ents are Josh Appel, Will Gold and House Homeless Shelter. As a Westhill at the Stamford Nature Center. Appel growth of underclassmen. Young has Marissa Young. Agriscience student, he became VP of has raised funds for the Stamford Men’s volunteered for the Maccabi Games, is Appel, an Eagle Scout and a two- the Stamford Regional Chapter of the Shelter and the American Foundation a Color Run Committee member and sport varsity athlete, led Scouts in the Future Farmers of America, where he for Suicide prevention. is a volunteer for the Friendship Circle. restoration of the Bartlett Arboretum’s mentored younger students and assisted Gold, a student at Westhill High Gary Stone, JWV scholarship selec- School, is a volunteer for the Friend- tion committee co-chair, stated, “The Boker Tov, Israel! – Lecture Series with Yael Stolarsky ship Circle and has participated in its selection committee focused on those On Sunday, May 6, from 10-11:30 am, at the Jewish Community Center, MVP program, the Friends at Home students who displayed a deep commit- Israeli Shlicha Yael Stolarsky will speak about “A Jewish and Democratic State.” Program, and its Children’s Circle ment to community service – not just The session will examine the conflict between religion and democracy in Israel. Program, all dedicated to assisting putting in a lot of hours – but teens The lecture will be repeated on Thursday, May 24, from 11 am-noon. children with special needs. He has vol- who took leadership roles and who unteered at Brighton Gardens Senior are passionate about giving back. The JCC Israeli Film Series Living Facility and is a certified EMT, goal of the JWV’s scholarship program Yael Stolarsky will screen award-winning Israel films at the Jewish Community volunteering with the Greenwich EMS. is to create publicity in the Stamford Center. “Aidas Secrets” will be shown on Thursday, May 17, at 7 pm. The film He is a member of the National Honor area and to inspire young people in explores the unraveling web of secrets of a family fractured by war. Society and the Westhill High School the community to get involved and give For more information, contact Stolarsky at 203-487-0961 or ystolarsky@ Leadership and Development Crew. back through community service and stamfordjcc.org. Young, a Stamford High School se- to become active volunteers as adults.” nior, has volunteered at the JumpStart For more information about JWV Israel Cancer Research Fund Honors Stamford Women Preschool at the Jewish Community Fred Robbins Post 142, e-mail stam- The Israel Cancer Research Fund’s Rachel’s Society will honor Anne Peskin, Center since age 12 helping small [email protected]. Eileen Rosner and Barbara Novak for their community service, volunteerism and chesed. The event will take place on Wednesday, May 16, at 6 pm, at the Carousel at Mill River Park. Continued from page 1 The evening will feature Dr. Harriet Kluger, professor of medicine at Yale Reality University, speaking about the latest cancer research developments. The pro- employment immigration, and current census undercount. Passel has lived in gram will include a kosher dinner. For pricing and reservations, contact David and future impacts of immigration on Arlington, VA, since 1976. He has been Kweskin at [email protected] or 203-321-1006. the U.S. population (the numbers, the a member of Temple Micah in Washing- composition and the workforce). ton, DC, for 30 years and has served on Passel joined the Pew Research Cen- its Board of Directors. Capitol Continued from page 1 ter in January 2005 and is a chief media “Norma and Milton Mann’s deeply communities to members of Congress He was named one of the 50 most in- spokesman in print and broadcast media held values of tikkun olam (repairing the and the administration. It advocates for fluential Jews in America by theForward for the Center, whose website states, world), community cooperation and legislation that helps further Federa- and the most influential Jew on Twitter “the Center is a nonpartisan fact tank educational opportunity influenced ev- tions’ work domestically and abroad, by JTA. He can be followed @Daroff. that informs the public about the issues, erything they dreamed, planned and ac- and impacts the safety and security of “As a member of the Board of Trust- attitudes and trends shaping the world. complished,” said Eva Weller, immediate Jewish institutions. ees of the Jewish Federations of North We conduct public opinion polling, past president of the Jewish Historical As the chief lobbyist and principal America, I am privileged to often hear demographic research, content analysis Society of Fairfield County. “Since 1956, spokesperson on public policy and inter- about the impactful work of our DC and other data-driven social science re- Norma and Milton Mann were part of national affairs, Daroff seeks to ensure office. William and his team are a pow- search. We do not take policy positions.” Stamford’s events, improvement, and that the voice of Jewish Federations is erful voice on Capitol Hill. They lobby Passel’s research interests include history. They held leadership positions a prominent force in the nation’s cap- for crucial policies that directly impact the demography of racial and ethnic in Jewish and community settings – work- ital. He guides the Jewish community’s Federations, our hundreds of partner groups, the integration of immigrants ing to safeguard fair housing, protect the advocacy efforts on the Federation agencies and the tens of thousands of into American society, and the fiscal, environment and strengthen Judaism movement’s key domestic policy issues, people we serve every day in affiliated demographic and social impacts of im- and Jewish culture.” Both Norma and from health and human services to elder hospitals, senior and community cen- migrants. He has developed measures Milton Mann were patrons and long care, homeland security to strengthen- ters, family and children’s service agen- of immigration trends, especially the es- serving board members of the Jewish ing charitable organizations. cies, vocational programs and more. timates of the unauthorized immigrant Historical Society. He has been called a key player in for- That’s why we’re constantly working population and components of change Members of the Mann family will eign policy circles on issues relating to the for across-the-board policy solutions that have been cited by all sides in de- be present at the lecture to honor U.S.-Israel relationship and the Middle that benefit everyone, from Holocaust bates over immigration and its effects. their parents. East. He is also considered a leader in the survivors to people with disabilities, He also works on generational dynamics, Reservations are requested. For global fight to combat the assault on Is- charitable organizations here at home population projections, defining racial/ more information about the program, rael’s legitimacy, creating and overseeing to the global Jewish community. I am ethnic groups and measuring census un- contact the Jewish Historical Society of Federations’ Israel Action Network, and looking forward to William’s visit to dercount. Passel’s previous positions in- Fairfield County at 203-321-1373, ext. serving on the steering committees of Stamford,” said Nancy Mimoun, current clude principal research associate at the 150, or [email protected], or visit its the prime minister of Israel’s global task UJF Campaign chair and past president. Urban Institute (1989-2005) and various website at http://jhsfc-ct.org. force and the Conference of Presidents RSVPs are appreciated and can be positions at the Census Bureau (1974- The Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield of Major American Jewish Organization’s made at www.ujf.org/lecture or by call- 1989), where he directed programs on County is a recipient agency of United working group. ing 203-321-1373. Light refreshments population estimates, projections, and Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Daroff is a social networking pioneer. will be served. demographic methods for measuring Canaan and Darien. MAY 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 13 Bringing History to Life By Judie Jacobson Work begins with a visit to the school tume by hand after Every year, fourth-graders at Bi-Cul- library, where each student selects a bi- researching what tural Day School engage in a re- ography of a figure in American history. upperclass colonial search-based biography unit focusing “I have collected and curated a num- women wore. Salm on a historical person who has changed ber of titles at an age-appropriate level said she was inspired the scope of America in significant ways. ,and arrange the library by historical by the Broadway show “I work with the kids for weeks, high- periods to make it look as if they’re “Hamilton,” which lighting interesting and important and browsing in a bookstore,” explains Salm, she had seen. Even diverse people in American history,” who says she seeks to add an element of more, she notes, says BCDS Librarian Dora Salm, who fun – and motivation – by dressing up “Women are often directed the students’ “Living Histo- as a historical figure and presenting, in overlooked in histo- ry Project,” the point of which is to character, a short monologue to the class. ry, but women have demonstrate to students how “exciting “This year, I chose Eliza Hamil- made significant history can be.” ton,” says Salm, who crafted her cos- contributions.” Bi-Cultural Day School is a recipient Broadway’s “Joseph” agency of United Jewish Federation of Greater BCDS fourth-graders kicked off their “Living History Project” Stamford, New Canaan with a visit to the school library, where they met Eliza Hamilton Comes to Bi-Cultural and Darien. (aka BCDS Librarian Dora Salm). It was more than just “another open- place on the arts here at BCDS, and ing, another show” in March, when stu- the dedication of our outstanding arts dents at Bi-Cultural Day School raised department, which continually creates Bi-Cultural Students Bring the curtain on “Joseph and the Amazing opportunities for our students to shine Technicolor Dreamcoat,” this year’s bright and showcase their unique artis- annual musical theater production. tic talents,” said BCDS Head of School Hope to Parkland, Florida “Our annual musical is yet one Jackie Herman. “Kol hakavod (all the Students at Bi-Cultural Day School in Stamford more example of the importance we honor) to the entire cast and crew!” said they were stunned and saddened by the shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL, in February. They resolved At left: A scene from to bring a “ray of light” to the grieving students the Bi-Cultural musical and families by signing up with Stars of Hope, production of “Joseph an organization that seeks to empower children to and the Amazing bring hope to those in need through the power of Technicolor Dreamcoat” art and messages of healing. The students painted (l-r): Sammi Bradley, wooden stars provided by the organization with Charlotte Moreen, Lilah inspirational messages to send to the Parkland Gordon, Mati Finkelstein students. They then decided to become part of this and Avi Gordon. (Photo “Pay it Forward” service that aims to bring healing by Michelle Gordon) and hope around the world. At right: Bi-Cultural eighth-grader Ruthie Price painted a Star of Hope to send to the students at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, FL.

ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 14 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ MAY 2018 “A Celebration of Family” “Fleeing the Hijab” On March 15, The United Jewish at JCC Gala Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien partnered with UJA/JCC of Greenwich at Temple Sholom, Greenwich, for an evening featuring Sima Goel, author of “Flee- ing the Hijab.” Serving as the master of ceremonies and introducing Goel was Sheila Romanowitz, former ex- ecutive director of UJF and former director of Women’s Philanthropy at UJA. “Sheila is a perfect spokes- L-r: Ricky Arbron, UJF president, with person and advocate for community Marsha Colten collaboration,” according to Diane Sloyer, UJF’s CEO. collaborative efforts with our Green- “We can do so much more when we wich friends and neighbors.” work together,” said Ricky Arbron, UJF Goel told her personal story of a On March 24, the Jewish Community Center of Stamford held its annual spring fund- president. “We look forward to more feisty Jewish child in Iran with Muslim raising gala at Rockrimmon Country Club. With more than 200 people in attendance, friends who one day turned into her the JCC honored Risa and Jeff Goldblum, with special recognition to their families; Ann enemies. Her story of survival and and Alex Goldblum; Lorraine and Mort Bauman; Ellen Goldblum Borker; and Karen courage left the audience wanting and Jon Malkin. The Goldblums and their families were honored for their support and more, as a long line waited to buy her devotion to the JCC and the Jewish community. The JCC also celebrated 40 years of JCC book during the reception following Tzahal Shalom, its Israeli family. L-r: Susie Gold, Gala Co-chair Jenny Fuchs, Ilyse Lyman the lecture. Goel’s story of fleeing was and Gala Co-chair Kim Schweber. (Photos by Marilyn Roos) called especially timely, as it was close to the Passover holiday. Goel acknowledged the support of the Federation when arriving in Can- ada. The Federation system gave her a place to live, food and an education Sheila Romanowitz brought the Stamford to start her life in a free country. She and Greenwich communities together as said understanding her good fortune she shared remarks about the power of has made her a committed donor and collaboration. volunteer.

At left, l-r: Pam Ehrenkranz, UJA/ JCC CEO, speaker Sima Goel and The annual spring gala is the Jewish Community Center’s largest fund-raiser of the year. Diane Sloyer, UJF Proceeds from the event are used to support JCC programs and services. L-r: Shown are CEO, enjoyed a few gala honorees Jeff Goldblum, Ellen Goldblum Borker, Ann and Alex Goldblum, Risa moments together Goldblum, Lorraine and Mort Bauman, and Karen and Jon Malkin. before the event.

At right, l-r: Sima Goel with Mimi and Saul Cohen.

L-r: Melanie Borker, Elyse Goldblum, Aaron Goldblum, Jordan Goldblum, Abigail Malkin and Isaac Malkin. At left, l-r: Harvey Weber, Linda Gornitsky, UJF VP of personnel, and Andrew Sverdlove.

Sima Goel, author of “Fleeing the Hijab,” shared her story. Bi-Cultural Students Advance to Bible Competition Finals Mazel tov to the Chidon HaTanach (national Bible contest) finalists from Bi-Cultural Day School, Yehudit Hochman and Tamar Rosenfeld. Only 200 students from across the country were chosen as finalists in the national Bible contest for Jewish youth. The finals were to be held on April 29 at Manhattan Day School in New York. B’hatzlacha (good luck) to Hochman and Rosenfeld. MAY 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 15 Text, Study and Discussion at Carmel Students Lend Their Voices to Gun Violence Issues By Julie Lapin violence using our Jewish tradition of On March 14, Carmel Academy mid- text study as a way to develop informed dle school students honored the victims opinions. Additionally, we emphasized of the tragedy at Marjory Stoneman to our students that it is not only im- Douglas High School and joined the portant to be knowledgeable about national conversation. the issues, but also to take action and Carmel’s students took the oppor- effect change.” tunity to find empowerment through The students spent the 17 minutes study, discussion and remembrance. following the study session paying Together, students and faculty studied tribute to the 17 victims of the Florida Jewish text, which sparked discussions school shooting. They recited a me- about issues surrounding life choices morial prayer, listened to Rabbi Soffer and responsibility toward fellow hu- recite the Mourner’s Kaddish, and mans. They also read and discussed a Carmel Academy middle school students reflect on the issue of gun violence in the U.S. watched a moving video that honored summary of research on gun policies L-r: Ben Jacobson, Brian Jablowsky, teacher Jeff Maldanado, Maya Fogel and Talia Moss. the victims. and their effects, explored gun violence Eighth-grader Zach Young said the statistics, and engaged in discussions telling the students: “The Torah de- are starting with study, and that has program made him not only want to that focused on finding areas of agree- mands action, our conscience demands to lead us to action.” take positive action, but also to help find ment among all people and how to action, I need to take action. Today “We try to instill in our students answers. “After going in-depth about address this issue. As a culminating we will start with what may seem like the idea that people are entitled to the issues of gun violence and making activity, each student wrote their own a small action, but can truly have a their own opinions, but that those connections to Torah, it made me want thoughts on what they can do person- major impact.” opinions need to be based on facts to know why this happens. Right now I ally or as a community to address gun He continued, “The Gemara asks, and knowledge,” said Jennifer Gensior, feel that the world has a big question violence in America. ‘What is more important, study or Carmel’s director of general studies. mark? We don’t really know what the Carmel’s Rabbi-in-Residence Rabbi action?’ We learn that study is, be- “This venue gave our students the answer is,” he said. Jordan Soffer began the program by cause study leads to action. So we space to delve into the issue of gun See “Carmel” on page 19 Jewish High School Students Remember Parkland Students By David Giver Jewish High School of Connecticut programmed walkout, they could par- As students around the country were had choices to make. Knowing that ticipate in a school programmed me- participating in organized school walk- one size does not fit all, the school morial service or they could find their outs in response to the recent events provided students with options. They own space to be or not be involved in in Parkland, FL, the students of the could participate in a student-led and the programming of the day. All programming was crafted to fit within a 17 minute window, allowing the UJF Builds Community memory of the students lost in Parkland to be the main focus of the individual events. Students made their way quickly Relationships and quietly to their programming lo- On March 16, the Jewish Community cations and the solemnity of the event Relations Council of United Jewish seemed evident. The normal raucous Federation of Greater Stamford, New halls of the school mid-morning fell Canaan and Darien hosted a “legisla- quiet, as students turned their thoughts tive breakfast” together with JFACT, to what has happened and what it might the Jewish Federations Association of mean for the future. Connecticut. The breakfast provided Students made their way out to the an opportunity for community mem- front parking lot to gather for the bers to meet and build relationships programming surrounding the school with their elected officials, and to share walkout. This programming, which Sixteen JHSC students participated in their thoughts and ideas. was marked with periods of silence, the school walkout. L-r: Sophomore Sarah Among the items discussed was a bill included a recitation of the students’ Hanna, junior Sarah Bernstein, freshman that would include Holocaust education names, including short thoughts by their Amelia Chapman, junior Celia Rosen, in the required Connecticut social stud- classmates as to the kind of people they senior Gabriella Lieberman, senior Julia ies curriculum. UJF said it is grateful to were. Music played and information was Arnowitz and senior Jensen Greif. Michael Bloom, director of JFACT, for L-r: Congressman Jim Himes and UJF given about how each student could his participation. UJF also thanked the President Ricky Arbron reach out to their elected officials to loss of their own.” public officials who attended: Congress- make their voice heard, no matter what it The memorial service allowed stu- man Jim Himes; Sean Higgins, outreach and William Tong; and Stamford Board was that they wanted to say. JHSC junior dents so inclined to have a Jewish outlet coordinator for Himes; Stamford Mayor of Representatives members Monica Celia Rosen noted, “As I stood outside for the feelings they had related to the David Martin; Michael Pollard, chief of Di Constanzo, Anzelmo Graziosi, my school on March 14, I was not just events of Parkland, FL. With prayers staff for Martin; State Senators Carlo Jonathan Jacobson, Bob Lion, Raven protesting a country that continues to for the departed and for those who are Leone, Scott Frantz and Toni Boucher; Meethene, Lindsey Miller, Eric Morson tune out the pleas of its people to reform, still recovering, students had a chance State Representatives Caroline Simmons and Denis Peterson. the cries of families who have lost loved to process the event through a service ones far too soon; I was there standing that was familiar to them within the with a Jewish community mourning the See “Students” on page 18

Peter Lilienthal, JCRC chair (second from left), and Mort Lowenthal (second from right) discussed issues with Senator Carlo Leone (far left) and Mayor David Martin (far right).

Stamford Mayor David Martin conversed with community members and legislators. ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 16 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ MAY 2018 It’s All about Festivities at TBE Run Hot and Cold Temple Beth El invites the community – TBE then an opening of the Torah scroll at 11:30 am. members and non-members – to two holiday cele- A dairy lunch will be served following the service, Dairy brations in May: which will include a sundae bar, live music with the By Ronnie V. Fein ‹‹ A Lag B’Omer Fire Festival will take place on Jay and Ray Band for young children, outdoor games On Shavuot, we celebrate Sunday, May 6, on the synagogue lawn from noon- and water play. the giving of the Torah, but of 2 pm. The event will featuring fire pits, roasting “We’re excited to host these events, free of charge,” course there’s a food compo- marshmallows and making s’mores. Attendees are says Jami Fener, who was recently named young fam- nent, too. Every Jewish holiday asked to bring a blanket and a dairy picnic lunch ilies coordinator at TBE. “They provide a great way has some food connection, for their family. TBE will supply the music, outdoor for Jewish families to meet each other and connect, right? Shavuot is all about games, including child-safe bows and arrows, and and to build and strengthen their Jewish identity.” “dairy.” Mostly cheesecake. other family fun. To make sure there are enough marshmallows and There are all sorts of rea- ‹‹ A Shavuot Ice Cream Social will be held on Sun- ice cream, people are asked to RSVP their attendance sons why Shavuot is associated day, May 20. TBE will commemorate the giving of for either or both events at tinyurl.com/tbeyf518. with dairy. Some say it has to The cover of Ronnie the Torah at Mount Sinai with a morning service For more information, contact Fener at 203-322- do with the origins of kashrut Fein’s newest cookbook, starting at 9:30 am (with childcare available) and 6901, ext. 311, or [email protected]. (which includes the separa- “The Modern Kosher tion of eating meat and dairy); Kitchen” others say it is to remember Chapter Two Created Holiday Cheer the promise of Israel, the “land of milk and honey.” I’ve also heard people say it is because Mount Sinai By Sharon Franklin to take home on the has many names, including one that has the same Attendees of the Chapter Two group of United weekends to share root as the word for cheese. And another theory Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan with their families- a is that by the time the Hebrews went back to their and Darien met in March to pack donated items for time when there is camp after receiving the Ten Commandments, holiday baskets for local school children. Each bas- often no food to eat. their milk had soured into cheese. ket had toys, games and food, which were wrapped In addition, Lau- As for why cheesecake is the most popular des- and delivered along with the weekly 3SQUARE food ren Steinberg, UJF’s sert, well, that really needs no explanation, does packages. 3SQUARE, a program of UJF, provides Jewish Community it? Just take a bite and you’ll know. food-insecure children with nutritious food bags Relations Council This year, Shavuot begins at sunset on Saturday, director, led an in- May 19. So get your ovens going a day or so ahead teractive discussion with a homemade cheesecake. titled “How To En- This recipe is a rich, festive, strawberry-topped hance Your Passover Chapter Two Co-chairs Sari Jaffe version from a woman who was our next door Seder.” Steinberg and Sue Frieden organized holiday neighbor when I was a little kid living in Bridgeport, discussed the idea packages for the food-insecure CT. Her name was Kate Winter and my mother of the wandering children of 3SQUARE. (Photo by always said she was such a good cook she could Aramaic story found Sharon Franklin) make canned beans and hot dogs taste like a gour- in the haggadah, the met meal. Judging by this cheesecake, I am quite four cups of wine drunk at the seder table and the sure that was true. Aunt Kate’s recipe called for significance of the items found on the seder plate frozen strawberries on top – one change I made and their symbolic meanings. was to switch to fresh berries. You can use other Chapter Two is led by Co-chairs Sue Frieden and Chapter Two donated items and packed baskets for children fruit if berries are an allergy issue. Sari Jaffe. The group’s programming consists of com- in need. Back row (l-r): Sari Jaffe, Marsha Shendell, Myra munity service projects, trips to shows and museum Aunt Kate’s Cheese Cake Graubard, Carol Krim and Sheila Teig. Front row: Barbara exhibits, and educational programs. Chapter Two 2 tsp. butter 1 Rosenberg; Marsha Matthews; program speaker and UJF JCRC provides women with the opportunity to socialize, /3 cup graham cracker crumbs Director Lauren Steinberg; Sue Frieden; and Sandy Burn. See “Cheer” on page 18 1 pound cream cheese 1 pound cottage cheese 1 cup sugar 3 large eggs Temple Beth El Women’s Seder 1 tsp. vanilla extract At right: More than 130 women attended Topping Temple Beth El’s annual Women’s Seder on Topping: March 13, led by Cantor Magda Fishman with 2 cups dairy sour cream musical guests Beth Styles and Aleksandra 3 Tbsp. sugar Mogilevich. L-r: Shown are the committee 1 tsp. vanilla extract and musicians, including Mogilevich; Sue Garnish: Greenwald, co-chair; Vicki Kolbiner; Tamara 12-15 strawberries Duhov; Heidi Ganz; Cantor Fishman; Irma ¼ cup apricot or currant preserves Ross; Lisa Grove-Raider; Denise Greenman, Preheat the oven to 375°F. Spread the butter on co-chair; Caroline Temlock-Teichman; Eileen the bottom and sides of a 9-inch springform pan. H. Rosner; Rosalea Fisher; and Styles. (Photos Sprinkle the inside of the pan with the graham by Aviva Maller Photography) cracker crumbs. Shake the pan to coat the bottom and sides of the pan completely. At right, l-r: Reading the haggadah created for the seder Beat the cream cheese and cottage cheese in an were Lisa Manheim, Dana Horowitz, Myra Graubard, Sue electric mixer at medium speed for 1-2 minutes or Freiden and Linda Kopel. until they are thoroughly blended. Add the sugar and blend it in. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, and beat the ingredients for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture is smooth, scraping down the sides of the bowl occasionally with a rubber spatula. Breaking Bread Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 20 minutes. While the cake is baking, make the topping by or Matzah mixing the sour cream, sugar and vanilla extract together until well blended. When the cake has baked for 20 minutes, remove it from the oven and Passover Set to carefully spoon the topping over the cake. Return the cake to the oven. Bake for 15 minutes. Turn the heat off, but leave the cake in the oven until Music it has cooled to room temperature. Students When the cake has reached room temperature, throughout refrigerate it (“place it in the ice box”) at least 4 Bi-Cultural hours or until it is thoroughly chilled. Wash and Day School trim the berries, and cut them in half. Place the in Stamford halves attractively on top of the cake. Heat the prepared for preserves in a small saucepan and brush the melted Passover and preserves over the berries. Remove the sides of celebrated the the pan to serve the cake. many customs Makes one cake serving 12-16. Shortly before Passover, United Jewish Federation and traditions Ronnie V. Fein is a cookbook author, food writer and representatives spent several days at Fairway Supermarket of the holiday through model seders, lessons and the annual cooking teacher in Stamford. She is the author of “The greeting shoppers, sharing Passover treats, stories and recipes, Kindergarten Passover Musical Spectacular, in which Modern Kosher Kitchen” and “Hip Kosher.” Visit her food and speaking to people about UJF. UJF said it is grateful to students entertained family and friends with a retelling of blog, Kitchen Vignettes, at www.ronniefein.com, friend on Fairway Market for permission to set up the display table the story of the Exodus. Above: Bi-Cultural kindergartener Facebook at www.facebook.com/RonnieFeinKitchen/, or and for donating the food items. L-r: Lauren Steinberg, Adiya Lerner (at right) took a moment to share a secret with follow her on Twitter and Instagram at @RonnieVFein. UJF’s PJ Library director, spoke with Suzanne Laswell, who her classmate Betty Hager during the Kindergarten Passover signed up her daughter Mackenzie for PJ Library. Musical Spectacular. MAY 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 17 18 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ MAY 2018 Celebrating 20 Years at Carmel Academy’s Gala Carmel Academy commemorated its 20th anniversary and honored two decades of At left, l-r: Parents leadership at its Erev Jonathan Pollack, Tov Gala on March 11. Dr. Ilan Fogel and Close to 400 founding, Rabbi Naftali Wolfe. current and alumni families, community leaders and faculty members gathered at Brae Burn Country Club in Purchase, NY, to celebrate the school’s past, present and future. The gala included cocktails, dinner, and performances by comedian and Carmel alumni parent Joel Chasnoff and the school’s student rock band. In attendance were more than half of the school’s alumni, as well as members of Carmel’s founding 20 families and its original Board of Trustees. Pictured (l-r) are Carmel Academy alumni Michaela Roth, Sydney Eben, Doron Loewenberg and Sammy Paprin, who celebrated Carmel Academy’s 20th anniversary. (Photos by Aviva Maller Photography)

Cheer Continued from page 16 meet new friends, learn and do good in across Stamford, New Canaan and the local community. Creating holiday Darien to maximize their collective baskets is an annual project of Chapter power and make a profound impact L-r: Dr. Cindy Mann, Dr. Tali Aldouby-Schuck, Jeff Marinstein and Gil Orbach. Two and allows children to receive a on the future of the local community. holiday gift, often for the first time. Community service projects are just an Cracks, Bams and Dots The event was in keeping with the example of WP’s focus. Master Mah Jongg players and novices alike are invited to play in the sixth mission of UJF’s Women’s Philanthropy For more information, call the UJF annual Sylvia Plotkin Memorial Mah Jongg Tournament, to be held at the Jewish Group: to bring together women from office at 203-321-1373. Community Center on Wednesday, May 2, from 9:30 am-2 pm. “All levels are welcome,” said Lorraine Kweskin, daughter of the late Sylvia Plotkin and chair of the event. “This is a day of friendly competition and seri- Students Continued from page 15 ous fun.” community of the school. As Rabbi Connecticut decided to provide its Bridge and Canasta games are also welcome. “Not a game player?” Kweskin Elisha Paul, JHSC head of school, said, students with the chance to choose to added. “Come for the fun! And, of course, donations are also welcome.” All “Identifying the anonymous victims as be involved in their world exactly in proceeds will benefit programs for senior adults at the JCC. real people with real names and fam- the way that each student found most There will be door prizes and tournament prizes, and noshes and nibbles ilies, who lost loved ones to senseless personal,” said Rabbi Paul. will be served. gun violence, brought closer to home The Jewish High School is a recipient The cost is $40 per person. To attend, register online at stamfordjcc.org or the stark reality of the magnitude of agency of United Jewish Federation of Greater pick up a registration form at the JCC welcome desk. For more information, loss to our students. Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. contact Connie Cirillo Freeman at 203-487-0983 or [email protected]. “In times where no one direction leads to all the answers that individ- uals need, the Jewish High School of VOICES AND VIEWS The New Jewish Voice Why I Care… “The New Jewish Voice” (USPS #184) is published monthly by “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many the United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien Inc., 1035 Newfield Ave., Stamford, CT 06905-2521. ripples.” – Mother Teresa www.ujf.org for updates and donations Ricky Arbron...... President Focus on Lisa and Seth Linzer Diane Sloyer...... CEO By Sharon Franklin Charity, which supports 3SQUARE. Advisory Committee Lisa and Seth Linzer have lived in Their most recent involvement is as Meryl Gordon...... Chair Meryl Japha, Nancy Schulman, Ellen Weber Stamford for many years and have their sponsors of the Shalom Stamford wel- own real estate business, L & S Reality. come bags through their residential Reporter Group Staff They have three adult children, Ellen, real estate agency, L&S Realty. “As The Reporter Group edits and publishes The New Jewish Voice. Sam and Nicole. As empty nesters, when longtime residents of Stamford, it is Rabbi Rachel Esserman...... Executive Editor they are not selling or listing homes in important to us to make sure those Diana Sochor...... Layout Editor Ilene Pinsker...... Assistant Editor Stamford, they share an enjoyment of new to the community feel welcomed. Jenn DePersis...... Production Coordinator reading and traveling. Seth sponsors Being a sponsor for the UJF Shalom Bonnie Rozen...... Advertising Representative and plays on the L&S Realty corporate Stamford welcome bag seemed like Kathy Brown...... Bookkeeper basketball team at the Jewish Commu- the perfect way to be hospitable and Opinions nity Center, while Lisa prefers word to support UJF all at the same time,” The views expressed in editorials and opinion pieces games such as Scrabble and Boggle. says Lisa. are those of each author and not necessarily the views Describe your current and past in- Have you been involved with other Lisa and Seth Linzer of the United Jewish Federation. volvement with UJF, and how long you Jewish organizations? Letters have been involved. Both Lisa and Seth are past board Bi-Cultural Day School and Stamford The New Jewish Voice welcomes letters on subjects of Lisa and Seth Linzer have been in- members and former presidents of Youngtimers, and is currently coach of interest to the Jewish community. All letters must be volved with United Jewish Federation Young Israel of Stamford, where they the girl’s team at Westchester Hebrew signed and include a phone number. The editor may of Greater Stamford, New Canaan have been members for many years. High School. withhold the name upon request. and Darien for more than 25 years as They still remain active in synagogue Why is it important for you to give Kashruth supporters and donors. In addition, life and Lisa currently sits on the Vaad back in this way? We are not responsible for the Kashruth of any adver- they have been involved with UJF’s Hakavod of the 30-year-old Modern Being involved in Jewish community tiser’s product or establishment. affinity groups, attended multiple Orthodox synagogue. Lisa is also a life is of paramount importance to the educational and community pro- former board member of the Stamford Linzers. Lisa’s father was a pulpit rabbi HOW TO REACH THE EDITOR: grams and served on teams in UJF’s JCC and Jewish Family Service. Seth has and synagogue life was the focus of Mail: Sandy Golove Annual Dodgeball Tournament for been a volunteer basketball coach at her household growing up. Seth’s late 1035 Newfield Ave. - Suite 200 father, Joseph Linzer, z’l, was president Stamford, CT 06905-2521 of his Conservative temple in Dobbs E-mail: [email protected] At left: Lisa Linzer Ferry no less than three times. He was Phone: (203) 912-9945 (age 8) and her brother, also passionate about fund-raising for Send article submissions via e-mail to David, admired a Federation in Westchester County, Sandy Golove at [email protected] plaque awarded to her where he lived. marked “Stamford Voice” in the subject parents, Helen and L&S Realty has mailed out a Shabbat line. Expect an acknowledgement; Rabbi Harry Lazaros, candle lighting magnet calendar every please re-send if you do not receive one. z’l, for their service year before Rosh Hashanah for the past HOW TO REACH and dedication to their 24 years. “It has our company logo and THE ADVERTISING local United Jewish phone number on it, but it’s really not a REPRESENTATIVE: Federation. Community productive business tool,” said Lisa. “It’s Phone: 1-800-779-7896, ext. 244 service and support of more about the community. I always SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION: Federation started early smile when I’m showing someone’s Phone: (203) 321-1373 in Lisa’s family. house that I don’t know personally E-mail: [email protected] and I see our Shabbat candle lighting magnet on their frig.” MAY 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 19 JHSC’s Ari Lieberman Receives Award from AIPAC By David Giver students last year. hone my knowledge into talking points heading to Washington for the annual The Jewish High School of Connecti- Under Lieberman’s watch, the group that I was able to utilize during my time AIPAC policy conference. It is for many cut’s Israel Advocacy Club advisor Ari has brought in many speakers, including speaking to my congressman. Overall, of these same reasons that Ari and Rica Lieberman received the Early Engage- Congressman Ted Deutch and Dr. David it was great experience.” Lieberman were honored at this year’s ment Exemplar Award from AIPAC Luchins. The students said that they “This is a well-deserved honor. Ari JHSC Spring Gala,” said Rabbi Elisha at their annual policy conference in learned a great deal at the AIPAC policy has put a lot of thought and effort into Paul, JHSC head of school. March. The award is in recognition conference and used that knowledge strengthening Israel advocacy here at The Jewish High School is a recipient of the work that Lieberman has done and skill to speak with their congressio- JHSC, and that work is showing results agency of United Jewish Federation of Greater with the JHSC students building an nal delegation about the need for full with the large delegation of students Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. Israel advocacy presence at the school. support of Israel in the highest levels A year after working with a handful of the American government. Senior of students to create the JHSC Israel Samuel Terr said of the experience, “It Advocacy Club, 18 students went to was overwhelming to be in a room with The Spirit of Passover the annual AIPAC policy conference, so many other pro-Israel supporters. At right: The Friendship Circle which is an increase from the three Speakers and break-out sessions helped families gathered before Passover to celebrate the spirit of the holiday in a safe and inclusive environment. While the children Songs of the Inspired Soul said they enjoyed the matzah At right: On March 26, bakery, puppet show with the story Chabad of Stamford held a of Passover and Passover-themed multi-media concert, “Songs craft, the parents spent “me time” of the Inspired Soul,” featuring together, making matzah plates Israeli American musicians, out of clay. Shown are Eytan the Agnon Quartet, in honor Israel and his buddy Max Berger of the 116th birthday of Rabbi as they paused for a moment Menachem M. Schneerson, before pouring the flour into the z’l. The evening consisted of matzah batter. a multi-media concert with musical presentation of seven niggunim (melodies) taught many years ago by the rebbe. A short film introduced each melody with its respective story and message, providing background and an additional layer of meaning to the music that followed. L-r: Agnon Quartet members Daniel Zinn, Avital Mazur, Leikie Glick and Laura Melnicoff. (Photos by Clive Salmon)

At right: Mayor David Martin (right) addressed the audience and presented Rabbi Moshe Shemtov with a proclamation on behalf of the mayor’s office. This proclamation, to Chabad of Stamford, was The moms and dads of those with unique abilities have been called the real heroes at the given in honor of Education and Friendship Circle. Pictured here are some parents who made matzah plates out of clay Sharing Day. The day is designated while their children enjoyed a separate Passover program. annually on the anniversary the Lubavitcher Rebbe by United States At right: The flour and water presidents in conjunction with the Washington, DC-based American Friends of Lubavitch must stay in two separate in honor of the rebbe’s dedication to the cause of education. booths before coming together and starting the 18 Continued from page 1 minute process of making Study matzah. Aaron Palker and What’s new about the way testing if a patient tests positive. his buddy (name withheld is conducted in the BFOR study, Of- For those who test positive for a upon request) stood in the fit said, is the fact that patients sign BRCA mutation, there are steps that water booth while Eli Wald up online and can choose to receive can be taken to lower cancer risk, Offit waited for instructions in their results from their primary care said. Since ovarian cancer is almost the flour booth. Sadie Palker provider. The testing will be free for always discovered at an advanced stage, (face not shown) held the participants and the study is open to it is recommended that women with mixing bowl in the middle. anyone over 25 years old who has health a BRCA mutation have their ovaries insurance and at least one grandparent surgically removed after they finish with Ashkenazi heritage. childbearing. In terms of reducing the Offit said some people are scared of risk of developing breast cancer, some Carmel Continued from page 15 finding out the results and view testing women choose to undergo a mastecto- Eighth-grader Isaac Malkin said agree that gun violence is an issue. as too much of a hassle. In addition, my, while others elect to get frequent he felt appreciative for the chance This wasn’t a protest, but a way to come insurance companies only cover testing breast screenings. to gather with his peers and to have together and to recognize that we need for those with a family history of breast, Men should be screened regularly deeper conversations about an issue to make change happen,” he said. ovarian and prostate cancer, but up to for prostate cancer, including by tak- that weighs heavily on the minds of Carmel Academy is a recipient agency 40 percent of those with the mutation ing a test to measure the level of PSA, teenagers. “It was even better that it of United Jewish Federation of Greater do not have a family history of those a protein that could indicate prostate wasn’t political. I think everyone can Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. types of cancer, according to Offit. An cancer. Offit said doctors should use a Israeli study published in 2014 recom- lower cutoff for the level of PSA for men mended that all Ashkenazi women age who have a BRCA mutation in order to 30 and over should be screened for perform a biopsy to check for cancer. BRCA mutations. Offit hopes to learn more about Women with a BRCA mutation have a how people opt to receive the test re- risk as high as 80 percent of developing sults – whether through their primary breast cancer and as high as 40 percent care providers or a specialist – and of developing ovarian cancer. Men with how many primary care providers a mutation have an increased risk of will feel comfortable giving the in- developing breast and prostate cancer. formation to their patients. Offit said The BFOR study, which received similar testing could be offered for funding from the Sharon Levine the general population for a wide Corzine Foundation, the Breast Can- variety of diseases. cer Research Foundation and other For those who are not eligible to par- donors, allows people to register on ticipate in the study, he recommends their smartphone or computer, receiv- speaking to a doctor about risk factors. ing testing at a local laboratory. They For those who do not have a family can choose whether to receive the history of breast, ovarian or prostate results from a primary care provider cancer, insurance does not cover testing or a cancer specialist. Primary care for BRCA mutations. In those cases, providers will receive training about Offit recommends regular screenings how to provide follow-up counseling for breast and prostate cancer. 20 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ MAY 2018