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june-july-august 2019/iyar-sivan-tammuz-av 5779 a publication of United jewish federation Volume 21, Number 4 Stamford JCC Opens Free Books for Jewish Tweens Preschool in Greenwich PJ Our Way Has You Covered! Greenwich Reform Synagogue for many years in Bedford Corners By Sharon Franklin PJ Library, has this covered. Building on and the Stamford Jewish Community and Mount Kisco, at Temple Shaaray Hundreds of families in the Greater the success of PJ Library, PJOW allows Center have announced the opening Tefila and Bet Torah. Gregoire also has Stamford area check their mail each tweens ages 8½-11 to select one of four of their new preschool. The school, experience working in summer day month in anticipation of receiving chapter books each month, giving them operated by the JCC at the brand new, camps. She holds a master’s degree their PJ Library book. What happens more choice on their journey toward state-of-the-art synagogue in Cos Cob, in education from Smith College. when your child reaches the age of 8 being life-long readers while introduc- will open in September for the 2019-20 Gregoire has taught 2-3-year-olds, and and they age out of PJ Library? PJ Our ing them to Jewish ideas. school year. Utilizing a developmental- has also led Baby and Me programs. Way (or PJOW), the newest chapter of See “Books” on page 6 ly-appropriate, play-based curriculum The newly completed playground for children ages 2-5, the school will has been designed by Environment seek to recognize and celebrate indi- Design, a locally owned company that “A Tribute to the Music of vidual differences and paces at which has built playgrounds for the Stamford each child learns. Nature Center and many area pre- The school director will be Sarah schools. Its mission is to “design play Barbra Streisand” Gregoire, who has taught preschool See “JCC” on page 3 Norma and Milton Mann Memorial Old City Jerusalem Now Largest Cantor’s Concert Returns Temple Beth Shira Lissek are El, Stamford, will two of the most Accessible Historic Site in World hold its 2019 Can- exciting cantors By Shlomo Deutsch adjusting four kilometers of streets in tor’s Concert on on the contempo- (JNS) – The Old City of Jerusalem the Armenian, Christian and Muslim Thursday, June rary scene. Their just became the largest accessible quarters; installing two kilometers of 13, at 7 pm. The shared admira- historic city in the world. The newly handrails along staircases; and pro- concert, featuring tion for the music inaugurated, 10-year, 20 million shekel viding a free, wheelchair-accessible, Cantors Magda of Barbra Strei- (about $5.5 million) project led by the shuttle from Jerusalem’s First Station Fishman and Shi- sand motivated East Jerusalem Development Company to the Old City’s Dung Gate. ra Lissek, will be them to create a has delivered accessibility to all three of Speaking at the site on March 18, “A Tribute to the Cantor Magda Cantor Shira very special eve- the city’s holy sites – the Church of the Jerusalem Mayor Moshe Lion said “this Music of Barbra Fishman Lissek ning. I have been Holy Sepulchre, the Temple Mount and was not an easy task.” Streisand.” lucky enough to hear these amazing the Western Wall. The project included See “Jerusalem” on page 18 “Cantors Magda Fishman and See “Music” on page 4 Candle 2 Bits & Pieces 6 Professional 12 Behrend 13 Voices & 16 Save the 17 Lighting Support Institute Views Date

Bi-Cultural Students Visit Stamford’s Sister City in Israel As part of the annual month-long Experience Israel trip taken by Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy eighth-graders, the students traveled to United Jewish Federation’s partnership region, Afula/Gilboa, in the north of Israel. They visited Nir HaEmek (a youth village for at-risk children) and interacted with students there. Activities included a scavenger hunt and pita bread baking. Students were able to see first-hand the importance of UJF’s support of Israel and the region. Pictured are Bi-Cultural students with Nir HaEmek students. 2 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ JUNE-JULY-AUGUST 2019 UJF President’s Message It’s all about Community! By Ricky Arbron programs to ensure the fu- Many members of our community application as well as FAQs for donors On Shabbat afternoon on ture of our community, but no longer see the necessity of donat- and applicants. By July 1, we will unveil April 27, I read the heart- the main focus of our new ing through Federation to give to our those programs you can support next breaking news of the syna- Federation is all about you! major agencies and schools. They feel year. You, as the donor, can choose gogue shooting in Poway, CA. We have been working on they would rather write their check what is important to you. This is true Unfortunately, it has become this for over a year, together directly. I am glad that overall giving to donor-driven community fundraising. a frequent occurrence that with a group of people who agencies and schools in our community Of course, if you don’t want to choose we hear of a religious group represent all facets of our has increased. I appreciate that these one of these exciting new initiatives, you targeted for exercising their Jewish community. institutions realized the need to employ can simply make a general gift to support right of religious freedom, This diverse group pon- their own professional fundraisers UJF. This will allow continued support of Antisemitism and hate have Ricky Arbron, dered many questions, delv- individually. But I also believe there is UJF community programs like The New no place in our society. UJF president ing into issues like where an important place for Federation in Jewish Voice newspaper, the JCRC, Yom I drove to Diane Sloyer’s are we as a community, who ensuring our entire community remains Hashoah and legacy programs, as well as home to share the news. We immediate- are our donors, and what are the im- strong for many, many years to come. support for Jews overseas and in Israel. ly agreed that we needed to bring the portant issues of our community and Our new UJF campaign will focus on A kickoff event, to announce the community together and would do so donors alike. UJF is all about commu- what is not currently being addressed programs that will be part of the 2019 at the already scheduled Yom Hashoah nity engagement. We are a growing, in our community. We have invited UJF Campaign for Communal Needs, program taking place at UConn Stam- vibrant Jewish community. What are we our agencies to propose new initia- will take place on Sunday, September ford the next day. missing? What will make us stronger? tives that will strengthen our growing 8. Please mark your calendars and join Members of UJF’s Jewish Community In answering these questions, we have community. Not only are we looking us. (See ad on page 17.) Relations Council sprang into action analyzed our campaign inside and out, to our agencies for ideas, but to our If you have any questions that we and spoke with Stamford police as well and have developed a new campaign synagogues and you – our community haven’t answered, let us know! One of as UConn police to increase security at structure that will ensure total trans- members, as well. our goals is to be as clear as possible. our local Jewish institutions and for our parency in how your money is used to I urge you to check out the website UJF is all about you! Your community! Sunday program. Without UJF, we would support our community. at www.ujf.org. There you will find the Your money! Your choice! not have a community Yom Hashoah program nor would we have a JCRC. The JCRC has been extremely active From UJF’s Chief Executive Officer since its inception three years ago in putting the needs and safety of our community at the forefront. (See article Why Our Voice Matters below.) And due to JFACT’s efforts, By Diane Sloyer terest to Connecticut’s Jewish JCRC chair) develops a legislative more money for security has been re- United Jewish Federation community of approximately agenda. Michael Bloom, JFACT’s leased to benefit our area institutions. celebrates three years since 130,000. executive director, spends most of As I write about the importance the formation of the Jewish As a group, the local JCRC his time in Hartford, our capital, of Federation and all we do for the Community Relations Coun- continues to foster relation- lobbying for the agenda on behalf community, I want to share that while cil (or JCRC) of Greater ships with the Interfaith of the Jewish community. we will remain true to our mission of Stamford, New Canaan and Council, immigrant advocacy UJF, in partnership with JFACT, building and strengthening our Jewish Darien. The JCRC, a division groups, and law enforcement holds legislative breakfasts (see article community, we are changing! Yes, we of Federation, serves as the and government officials. page 13) and hosts elected political are still working on community legacy public relations arm for the We work closely with the law officials and candidates. local Jewish community. Like enforcement agency and Take a look at the JFACT 2019 Leg- other JCRCs, the focus of its Diane Sloyer, with our partners at ADL to islative agenda, which is listed in the CANDLE work is in four areas: UJF CEO monitor news and incidents box below this article. ‹‹ Interfaith and Inter-Community to ensure that the local community is There is much to do and we need LIGHTING TIMES Relations safe from hate. JFACT also works in more involvement from community May 31...... 8:01 pm ‹‹ Israel Advocacy collaboration with a variety of inter- members who are willing to be active ‹‹ Forging and Maintaining Rela- faith and secular nonprofit agencies JCRC participants. June 7...... 8:06 pm tionships with political officials, law advocating social services to the needy The JCRC needs you. Your voice, June 8...... after 9:15 pm enforcement and the media and hungry in our state, and promotes your energy and your commitment June 9...... after 9:16 pm ‹‹ Social Action Projects (following statewide advocacy on behalf of Israel. will allow us to make a difference. For the Jewish principle of tikkun olam – Every year, the JFACT board (on more information, please contact me June 14...... 8:10 pm repairing the world) which I sit, along with Ricky Arbron, directly at 203-321-1373, ext. 105, or at June 21...... 8:12 pm UJF’s JCRC is chaired by Peter Lilien- UJF president, and Peter Lilienthal, [email protected]. June 28...... 8:13 pm thal of Stamford. It has a small, active July 5...... 8:12 pm board, but needs more community JFACT 2019 Legislative Agenda members interested in advocacy work. July 12...... 8:09 pm Our JCRC is an active part of the Jewish ‹‹Support another $10 million for school security grant July 19...... 8:05 pm Federation Association of Connecticut ‹‹Support – HB 6570 – AAC safety and security in places of worship and July 26...... 7:59 pm (or JFACT). JFACT speaks with one other community venues. – Public Safety Committee Security continues to be a concern in all of our communities. Developing August 2...... 7:52 pm voice for the seven Connecticut Jewish Federations, four Jewish Community safety and security protocols for places of worship and other venues in the August 9...... 7:43 pm Centers, eight Jewish Family Services community that are open to the public is smart public policy. August 16...... 7:34 pm and two Jewish nursing homes in ‹‹Support – HB 5181 – an act exempting certain facilities from the Natural August 23...... 7:23 pm Connecticut. JFACT is the government gas demand use charge – Energy Committee Current regulations in Connecticut provide gas utilities with the ability to August 30...... 7:12 pm and community relations arm of the Jewish Federation system in the state, charge churches and other religious institutions a “demand fee” as if they were September 6...... 7:01 pm and lobbies for legislation that is of in- commercial establishments. The demand fee is set based on the commercial user’s single highest daily gas usage in a 12-month period. Places of worship are not commercial property and thus should not have to pay the “demand fee.” ‹‹Support – HB 6759 – AAC property tax exemptions for real property used for charitable purposes and the recovery of certain fees and damages in wrong- ful property tax assessment actions– Planning and Development Committee Towns that are overly aggressive with going after non-profits are a major concern to Jewish non-profits in Connecticut. ‹‹Support – HB 7082 – AAC the inclusion of African-American studies in the public school curriculum – Education Committee This bill would mandate African-American history be added to the social studies curriculum in all schools in Connecticut. ‹‹Support – HB 7222 – an act concerning the duties of the office of the attorney general – Judiciary Committee The bill would empower the attorney general to investigate hate crimes and systemic civil rights violations and proactively file suit to protect our core rights and freedoms. ‹‹Oppose – HB 5255 – AAC the tax deduction for certain Section 529 qualified state tuition program distributions – Finance Revenue and Bonding Committee Federal legislation allows individuals to use their 529 for private schools, therefore, Connecticut should allow this as well. ‹‹Oppose – HB 5241 – an act eliminating the requirement that school trans- portation services be provided for children attending nonpublic schools – Transportation Committee This legislation would delete current law that allows a town the option to provide transportation for nonpublic school students. If enacted, this legis- lation would severely harm nonpublic schools around Connecticut. JUNE-JULY-AUGUST 2019 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 3 COMMUNITY NEWS AJC’s Steve Bayme to Speak at TBE Briefing on Current Issues in Israel AJC’s Dr. Steve Bayme will be the keynote Beth El in November 2017 on the 100th rary Jewish life and of AJC’s Koppelman Institute speaker at AJC Westchester/Fairfield’s Anniversary of the Balfour Declaration. on American Jewish-Israeli Relations. He holds annual meeting at Temple Beth El in All are invited to attend this community- an undergraduate degree in history from Yeshiva Stamford on Wednesday, June 12, at 7:30 wide event at which longtime Temple Beth University, and M.A. and Ph.D. degrees in Jewish pm. Bayme will discuss current issues in El member Stephne Behrend will be voted history from Columbia University. He has lectured Israel in the wake of the Israeli elections. in as AJC regional president. The event is across the country and taught at Yeshiva University, If the U.S. Middle East peace proposal has sponsored by AJC Westchester/Fairfield the Jewish Theological Seminary, Hebrew Union been announced (the release is anticipated and Temple Beth El. A dessert reception College and Queens College. He currently holds in early June), his talk will also provide will follow the meeting. The event is free the rank of visiting professor at Yeshivat Chovevei insights on that topic. Bayme offers audi- and open to the public, but registration is Torah. He has published extensively and is cited in ences opportunities to learn and enhance required at ajcwestfair-annualmeeting2019. the media on Jewish communal issues. He was also their understanding from his knowledge, Steve Bayme eventbrite.com or by calling AJC at 914- profiled in Lifestyles magazine. He has been named critical thinking, insights and analysis on 948-5585. three times on the Forward’s annual list of the top 50 many issues. Bayme spoke to a full house at Temple Bayme serves as AJC’s director of contempo- Jewish leaders who “make a difference.” In its 2001 listing, the Forward noted that Bayme “influences the debate on a variety of issues and has helped steer his organization into position as the leading address in Temple Sinai Annual Pride Shabbat the national Jewish discussion.” This year, Temple Sinai’s annual Pride Shabbat each and every person. To that end, Temple Sinai Outgoing AJC Regional President Richard Cohen falls on Friday, June 14, at 7:30 pm. To celebrate, the is doing its part to ensure that hatred will have no said, “I look forward to passing the baton to Stephne. synagogue’s musical ensemble, Ruach (which means home here, and here, everyone has a voice. Embrac- I am so pleased that she will be our first regional “spirit”), will share a Pride-themed service and concert. ing individuals regardless of race, gender, ability or president from Fairfield County, since we expanded The group will offer a selection of secular songs that sexual preference, this congregation understands to become AJC Westchester/Fairfield in 2014. Steph- sing to the idea of love, equality, diversity and pride. that we are a better, stronger and more beautiful ne is a proven AJC leader and a superb friend-raiser Everyone is invited to attend, sing, sway, clap and revel collection of souls, not in spite of our diversity, but in our community. I’m confident Stephne will be in the freedom to express themselves. rather because of it. We celebrate our differences an exceptional president.” Cohen’s legacy includes “There is still so much work to be done; hatred every day, but in the month of June, we raise our greater expansion in Connecticut; introduction of abounds among those who fear individuals or groups rainbow flag even higher and wave it proudly,” says the Leaders for Tomorrow advocacy training program that are ‘other.’ Our ongoing work is to open our Cantor Micah Morgovsky. for high school students; bridge building efforts in eyes, hearts and minds, embrace the rainbow of re- For more information on the ongoing LGBTQ+ the region with interfaith and intergroup leaders, ality, and honor the humanity and individuality of advocacy, contact Temple Sinai at 203-322-1649. especially the Muslim and Latino communities; and capacity building for the region. AJC Westchester/ Fairfield Director Scott Richman said that he has JCC Run/Walk Benefits Children with “the utmost respect and admiration for Richard. He took on the role of AJC ambassador with great intelligence and confidence, encouraging support Special Needs and involvement, at a time of increasing polarization Everyone is invited to take part in the JCC’s 12th tionships; and a variety of music, movement, sports and and other challenges in the U.S. and abroad.” Cohen Annual Give a Child a JumpStart 5K/10K Run/Walk arts programs and classes for youths with special needs. will offer a final president’s report that evening. on Labor Day, Monday, September 2. This event has “Our programs welcome individuals of all ages, consistently received the support of The Herbert and faiths, abilities and backgrounds, and the JCC pro- Sarah M. Gibor Charitable Foundation and Auslander vides substantial scholarships for those with financial JCC Continued from page 1 Kasindorf Group/Keller Williams Realty. need. The run/walk will help provide the funding environments that are stimulating for the imagina- Rain or shine, participants of all ages will raise funds necessary to continue and expand these much needed tion, challenging for the body, and a safe home for for JumpStart, a therapeutic early childhood classroom programs for our extended community,” said Nancy the free spirit of discovery.” experience for 2-year-olds with special needs; Hand in Schiffman, the JCC’s associate executive director of Contact the JCC for a tour at 203-487-0944 or Hand (Yad B’Yad), an inclusion camp and division of development and signature programs. “We believe that e-mail [email protected]. Day Camps@The J, offering a summer experience for each individual enriches our JCC community, and this children with a variety of needs; Recreate and Relate, belief upholds the Jewish values of welcoming guests, social groups that provide youths with a structured and kindness, respect and communal responsibility.” safe environment to develop social skills and build rela- See “Run” on page 6 Deadlines for Third Annual Norma and Milton Mann Lecture articles The Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield Countywill present a lecture on Sunday, June 16, focusing The deadlines for the next three issues of The on the topic of “Seeking Justice and Protecting Human Rights in a Perilous World.” Guest lecturer Roya New Jewish Voice are: Hakakian, one of the founders of The Iran Human Rights Documentation Center, will discuss the Center’s Monday, July 29...... September case study on Iran’s global terror campaign. Her award-winning book, “Assassins of the Turquoise Palace,” Thursday, August 29...... October documents her findings. Monday, September 23...... November An invitation-only donor brunch will take place prior to the lecture with a special presentation by Haka- Send New Jewish Voice article submissions to kian on the Jewish experience in Iran today. Light refreshments will be served for the general audience at Sandy Golove at [email protected] marked “Stamford 10:30 am, with the lecture beginning at 11 am at Temple Beth El, 350 Roxbury Rd., Stamford. Voice” in the subject line. Expect an acknowledge- The JHSFC looks forward to seeing community members at the presentation. To RSVP or to ask questions, ment; please re-send if you do not receive one. call 203-321-1373, ext. 150, or e-mail [email protected]. Check out JHSFC’s website at http://jhsfc-ct.org.

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www.DentalCareKids.com www.DentalCareOrthodontics.comalCareOrthodontics.com 203.883.4457 Call Today for New Patient Special O ers! 1500 Summer St., Stamford, CT ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 4 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ JUNE-JULY-AUGUST 2019 Sally Klapper of Stamford Receives Israel Presidential Award On Yom Ha’atzmaut (Israel Inde- The ceremony is attended not only by pendence Day), Israel’s President the president, but also by the prime Reuven Rivlin hosted the annual minister and the head of the army. Independence Day ceremony at his The event, which also features song official residence to award the Israel and dance, is nationally televised. Defense Forces’ annual citations for Klapper made aliyah and serves in distinguished service to 120 outstand- the Israel Defense Force as a lone sol- ing soldiers representing all branches dier. Klapper is ranked first sergeant of the IDF. Sally Klapper, a native of and is a combat soldier serving in a Stamford, was among those honored. reconnaissance drone unit.

At right: Sally Klapper (in uniform) posed with her family after receiving her award. L-r: Norma Kraut, Claudia Rimerman, Elissa Klapper, Sally Klapper, Hannah Klapper and Philip Klapper.

Music Continued from page 1 singers on many occasions, including York City. She has also performed in TBE for 32 years. They are partners this outstanding concert. I know you concerts around the world. of Construction Solutions Group, a will enjoy it, “ said Eileen H. Rosner, Cantor Fishman and Cantor Lissek design-build construction company. concert committee chair. “I am also have performed this tribute to Strei- Their three children, Ben, Emily pleased to be honoring Honni and sand at Park Avenue Synagogue and and Sam, attended the TBE Reli- Sylvan Pomerantz for their contribu- Metropolitan Room in New York City, gious School and celebrated their tions to Temple Beth El.” and received rave reviews. b’nai mitzvah at TBE. They are the TBE Cantor Fishman, a mezzo-so- The concert will honor Honni grandparents of four grandchildren, prano, has performed in Israel, and Sylvan Pomerantz. Sylvan has with another on the way. There will Europe, the U.S. and Canada. She served on the Board of Trustees for be an online tribute journal. performs with Soul to Soul and Divas many years and as president of TBE The concert is sponsored by the on the Bimah. Over the years, she from 2013-15. He has also served on Mann Family in memory of Norma and has built a following among a wide various committees, including the Milton Mann, z’l. A dessert reception spectrum of audiences. Facilities Committee, Fundraising will follow. Cantor Lissek is currently cantor Committee and the Beth El Ceme- The concert is open to the public; of Temple Israel in Charlotte, NC. tery Association, and as co-chair of general admission seats by advanced Previously, she was associate cantor Temple Rock and The Mann Family Sylvan and Honni Pomerantz sale are priced at $36, or $10 for stu- of Park Avenue Synagogue, the larg- Solar Panel initiative. Honni has dents. Tickets at the door will cost $45, est Conservative community in New been an architectural consultant to TBE and the Facilities Committee, or $18 for students. and volunteers for Temple Rock. She To purchase tickets or place a trib- and Sylvan were the project manag- ute ad online, visit www.tinyurl.com/ Please support our advertisers, and tell them ers for the renovations of the social tbecc2019. For further information, you saw their ad here in hall, lobby and sanctuary. Sylvan call 203-322-6901, ext. 301, or e-mail and Honni have been members of [email protected]. JUNE-JULY-AUGUST 2019 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 5 NextGen Tournament Helps Dodge Hunger By Sharon Franklin Levine, Craig Price and Seth Young. is being sponsored by Donald Konrad throwing balls at each other’s heads! On Wednesday, July 17, United Jew- Money raised during the tournament of TitleVest. We are so happy that this event has ish Federation will host NextGen’s sixth will go to UJF’s 3SQUARE program, “Nothing screams commUNITY become a summer staple and a small Annual Dodgeball Tournament. The which feeds food insecure children in more than a group of grown-ups See “NextGen” on page 8 event will take place at the Stamford the public school system on the week- JCC and will start with a kosher barbe- ends, and Sandwich Packers, a food cue at 5:30 pm, with games beginning at nutrition program in Stamford’s sister 6:45 pm. Co-chairs of the event are Josh city of Afula, Israel. The tournament UJF Leadership Meeting UJF Vice President Arlene Rosen Facilitated by Rosen, the organiza- convened local lay leadership as part tions’ leaders realized they had lots of of a newly formed Leadership Council, common strengths and opportunities which will meet bi-annually. Leaders for growth. Every communal organi- gathered to meet one another, network zation was represented and the group Participants from UJF’s 2018 Dodgeball Tournament are preparing for the 2019 competition. and talk about the needs and future of looks forward to convening again in the greater Jewish community. September. UJF Partnership with Afula- Gilboa

Front row (l-r): Edith Samers representing Jewish Broadcasting Service, Chavurat Etz Chaim and Schoke JFS; Alan Cohen, Temple Sinai; Roger Loeb, Friendship Circle; Elissa Kaplan, Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield County; and Simeon Wohlberg, Congregation Nancy Mimoun, past United Jewish Federation president and current UJF campaign Agudath Sholom. Back row (l-r): Shani Cohen, Young Israel and Carmel Academy; Peter co-chair, and UJF CEO Diane Sloyer attended a board meeting for SNEC (Southern New Lillienthal, Jewish Community Relations Council; Arlene Rosen, United Jewish Federation; England Consortium in partnership with Afula-Gilboa in Israel) in early May at the Jewish David Pitkoff, Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy; Carl Weinberg, Temple Beth El; Joy Katz, Federation of Western Connecticut in Southbury. The group meets every other month to Jewish Community Center; and Ricky Arbron, United Jewish Federation. (Not present for plan programs between Afula-Gilboa and Southern New England and to allocate funds photo: Levi Segal, Chabad Stamford.) to support the region.

ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 6 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ JUNE-JULY-AUGUST 2019 bits and pieces new around town By Sandy Golove Nathaniel Harrison, son of Mary and Rabbi Rachmiel Gurwitz - Carmel Academy To submit infor- David Harrison. Carmel Academy has appointed Rabbi Rachmiel Gurwitz mation to Bits and Reese Johnson, daughter of Anne as the school’s rabbi-in-residence. Rabbi Gurwitz will seek to Pieces, call 203-912- and Darrell Johnson. enrich the Carmel Academy community’s Jewish learning 9945, or e-mail me at Lila Juneja, daughter of Erica and and living through experiential programming and classroom [email protected]. Robert Juneja. teaching. He will oversee the school’s tefillah curriculum WELCOME TO Adam Kinderman, son of Naomi and and collaborate with the faculty to further promote Carm- GROWING FAMILIES: Marc Kinderman. el Academy’s vision and commitment to pluralistic Jewish Rachel and Zachary Lew, son of Leslie Glenn. education. In addition, he will be involved in community Thomas D’Addio on the birth of a son, Keira Lubliner, daughter of Jordan- outreach to enrich family and adult Jewish experience. Matthew James D’Addio; grandmother na and Douglas Lubliner. Rabbi Gurwitz received his rabbinical ordination from is Debra Adler-Klein. Jennifer Schneider, daughter of Lu- Yeshivat Chovevei Torah. He is currently serving as Jewish Melissa and Matthew Cohen on the cille Orillaneda and David Schneider. chaplain and Hillel director at Muhlenberg College Hillel. Rabbi Rachmiel birth of a son, Ethan Grant Cohen; Jacob Trapanese, son of Lisa Isen- At YCT, Rabbi Gurwitz participated in chaplaincy with Holo- Gurwitz grandparents are Marsha Colten and berg and Paolo Trapanese. caust survivors, worked for Filipino migrant workers’ rights Robert Cohen. Joshua Whetsell, son of Lisa and with T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights, and built his entrepreneurial Abby Katz and Jeff Cunningham on Robert Whetsell. repertoire as a fellow with the Office of Innovation at Hillel International. Rabbi the birth of a son. Liav Vadel, son of Shira and Ofer Gurwitz received a B.A. in global and international studies from the University Dani and Josh Green on the birth of Vadel. of California, Santa Barbara; and completed post baccalaureate studies at the a son, Frederick (Freddy) James Green; Jacob Vellozzi, son of Debby and David Shapell College of Jewish Studies/Darche Noam in Jerusalem. grandparents are Paula and Ben Green. Chris Vellozzi. Rabbi Gurwitz said he is passionate about making Judaism, sacred texts and Maytal and Jonathan Lerner on the MAZEL TOv to OUR GRADUATES: Jewish practice accessible and available to students of all backgrounds and abilities. birth of a daughter. FROM MIDDLE SCHOOL: Joan and Stu Madison on the birth Ela Dynner, graduating from Carm- of their grandson, Leo Elkin. el Academy and attending SAR High Run Continued from page 3 Carol and Evan Rothstein on the School. Runners and walkers will leave from the race is professionally timed. The birth of a daughter, Jacqueline Shae Atara Ivri, graduating from Carmel the JCC, located at 1035 Newfield early-bird fee to enter the run/walk Rothstein; grandparents are Barbara Academy and attending SAR High Ave., for a family-friendly route in is $30 per adult and$15 per child and Steven Rothstein. School. the Pepper Ridge section of Stam- ages 6-18. Children 5 and under Caryn and Ben Schiller on the birth Sam MacDonald, graduating from ford. Strollers are welcome and there are free. of a son; grandparents are Rhonda and Carmel Academy and attending Greens will be water stations along the way. Online registration for the JCC run/ Judd Love. Farms Academy. For the safety of all participants, no walk is available at www.stamfordjcc.org, Sarah and Rabbi Mendel Shmotkin Annie Mozer, graduating from Car- animals (other than service animals) or contact Sheryl Young at syoung@ on the birth of a daughter; grandparents mel Academy and attending Greenwich are permitted. Bikes and scooters are stamfordjcc.org for more information. are Malya and Rabbi Zalman Shmotkin. High School. permitted only for participants with Families and local businesses can also Audrey and Joseph Speter on the Evan Roth, graduating from Carmel special needs. support JumpStart and the inclusion birth of a daughter; grandparents are Academy and attending Westhill High Check-in will begin at 8:30 am programs at the JCC by becoming Sandy and Moshe Speter and Mona School. and the run/walk will start at 9 am. sponsors of the communitywide event. and Jacob El-Gamil. FROM HIGH SCHOOL: The event is certified by USA Track The JCC is a recipient agency of United Rachel and Greg Waldstreicher on Ella Feuerstein, graduating from and Field, and the run portion of Jewish Federation. the birth of twin sons; grandparents are Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy and will Sharon and Jay Lipinsky and Sandi and be enlisting in the IDF. Stuart Waldstreicher; and great-grand- Tamar Frydman, graduating from mothers are Helene Ehrlich and Audrey Westhill High School and will be at- Waldstreicher. tending Pratt Institute. Wendy and Daniel Weiner on the Eliza Loewenberg, graduating from birth of a grandson, Max Evan Kahler. Solomon Schechter School of West- MAZEL TOV TO: chester and will be attending University Barbara Aronica-Buck, recipient of of Chicago. the Fred Weisman Tikkun Olam Award Carly Marinstein, graduating from Temple Beth El. from Solomon Schechter School of Stephen Block on the engagement Westchester and will be attending of his son, Harry Block, to Emilie Maur- University of Connecticut Honors er, daughter of Shoshana and Simon Program. Maurer, of London. Adira Orbach, graduating from Shayna Druckman, recipient of the SAR Academy and will be attending “Our Women Leaders of Tomorrow” Midreshet TVA in Israel, followed by award given by the Stamford History Washington University in St. Louis. Center. WE MOURN THE LOSS OF: Rabbi Gerry L. Ginsburg on his or- Lynn Berman: sister of Robyn Alper dination as a rabbi by the Academy for Philip John DeNardo: father of Ste- Runners and walkers of all ages and abilities took off at last year’s Give a Child a JumpStart Jewish Religion in Yonkers, NY. phen DeNardo 5K/10K Run/Walk. This year’s run/walk will be held on Monday, September 2, at the Jacob Herz, son of Nancy and Jeff John B. Ferrucci: father of Lisa Popper JCC on Newfield Avenue. Herz, recipient of the Teen Volunteer Jennifer Galpin: daughter of Debo- Award from Temple Beth El. rah and Stephen DeNardo Helene and Harvey Kaminski on Frederick Glotzer: father of Liz Lebo Books Continued from page 1 the engagement of their daughter, Suzanne Silver Hecht: sister of Ste- Kids can visit the PJOW website each Frances Kaminski, to Jason Starr, of ven Silver month to choose a chapter book from Brooklyn, NY. Betty Bertha Hissong: mother of a selection of four titles that have been Laura Markowitz and Stewart Casper Rebecca Isenstein reviewed by a panel of PJ educators, on the engagement of their daughter, Morton Kinzelberg: grandfather of parents and kids, for 12 free books a Allison Casper, to Jason Usdin, son Eytan Sosnovich year. To make the choice easier, every of Robbi and Jonathan Usdin, of Mill- Miriam Cohen Lewinger: mother of title offered comes with a synopsis and burn, NJ. Amy Bubel author bios, ratings and reviews, and Allison Ostroff for being honored Jean Palley: former congregant of video trailers. Kids can also take polls PJ Our Way Tweens enjoy free monthly books. by the Stamford Senior Center. Temple Sinai and quizzes, participate in monthly in- (Photo courtesy of the Harold Grinspoon PJ Joan and Robert Rosenthal on the David Resnick: husband of Florence terviews and challenges, submit reviews Library and PJ Our Way) engagement of their daughter, Rachel Resnick, and father of Dale Resnick, and comment on blog posts. PJ Our Way Rosenthal, to Sam DeRoest. Karen Resnick and Susan Resnick is a closed site, meaning it does not link The PJ Our Way program is sup- Andrew Sander, grandson of Carol Ruth Sandak: mother of Jay Sandak to social media sites or to YouTube. All ported by the Harold Grinspoon and Willy Sander, on making the Dean’s Michael Sverdlove: grandson of website content, including kid comments Foundation and the local Federation, List at Duke University. Andrew Sverdlove and videos, are reviewed by PJ Our Way UJF. “We believe these stories and their MAZEL TOV TO B’NAI MITZVAH: Barbara Marcia Wexler: mother of educators before being posted, which values help shape young people in Ari Ben-Zvi, son of Keri and Lavi Mark Wexler, Joan Sturm and Bob helps create a safe and interactive way their understanding of being Jewish, Ben-Zvi. Wexler for kids to participate and learn. and it’s our hope that PJ Our Way will Yael Everett, daughter of Lisa and Marvin Zimmerman: father of John Parents are invited to visit the web- ultimately build a strong community Todd Everett. Zimmerman site to read about each book and find of young Jewish people,” said Harold Maxwell Levine Frank, son of Laura CORRECTION suggestions for family conversations. Grinspoon, founder of PJ Library and Levine and Jordan Frank; grandparents The following was listed incorrectly These blog posts give parents tools to PJ Our Way. are Andrea and Martin Levine. in last month’s b’nai mitzvah listing. help children make book choices that Signing up is easy. Go to www.pjow. Elexis Handel, daughter of Marni The New Jewish Voice apologizes for are appropriate for them. org. If there is more than one child and Michael Handel. the error. Local events throughout the year in a family ages 8½-11, each can get Emma Lauren Daffner, daughter of enhance the PJOW experience. The their own subscription. For questions, To send a UJF Tribute Card, go Marjorie L. Rosmarin and Scott D. Daff- next PJOW program will be a park contact Sharon Franklin,UJF managing to www.ujf.org. ner; grandparents are Alva and Richard cleanup in Stamford on Sunday, June director of campaign and engagement, Daffner and Carol G. Rosmarin. 23. Visit www.ujf.org/pjpark for details. at [email protected] or 203-321-5364. JUNE-JULY-AUGUST 2019 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 7 Community Gathers to Remember the Shoah United Jewish Federation brought the community needed to find four perfectly matching pebbles together once again to commemorate the Shoah and if she did, then all four of her family members (Holocaust). Given the climate of antisemitism and would be OK. She said her imagination, strength hate in society, this year’s program, just one day af- and perseverance kept her alive. ter the murder in a Poway, CA, synagogue, brought The family spent two weeks on trains crowded together a large crowd. The event was held on April with 2,500 people heading to death camps with 28 at UCONN Stamford. Guests arrived with time no food, water or toilets – 500 people died in to view the “Visions and Reflections” exhibit, which route. The train was liberated by the Soviets before featured several local families. Barbara Webski and reaching its destination and although the family Sherry Steiner chaired the evening, and the Board of four survived, Blumenthal Lazan’s father died of Rabbis participated in the program along with the several weeks later. color guard of Boy Scout Troop 15. Blumenthal Lazan shared with the audience that Marion Blumenthal Lazan was the guest speaker. she can recount the horrors because she separates In her memoir, “Four Perfect Pebbles,” she recalls herself from that life and this, and acknowledged the devastating years that shaped her childhood. that not all survivors can do that. Her book has been Ricky Arbron UJF president;Barbara Webski, event co-chair; Following Adolf Hitler’s rise to power, she said recommended as a first Holocaust reader for tweens. Marion Blumenthal Lazan, guest speaker; Sherry Steiner, the Blumenthal family – father, mother, herself “Her message of perseverance, faith, hope and event co-chair; and Diane Sloyer, UJF CEO. and her brother, Albert – were trapped in Nazi will is a message we can still learn from today,” said Germany. They eventually managed to get to Ricky Arbron, UJF president. Blumenthal Lazan and her husband, Nathaniel, Holland, but soon thereafter it was occupied by “It was an honor and privilege to meet Marion are in their late 80s, but still continue to participate the Nazis. For the next six and a half years, the and hear her story. What was remarkable was at the in speaking engagements. Blumenthal Lazan says Blumenthals were forced to live in refugee, transit end, every UCONN and Stamford police officer went they know the importance of the next generation and prison camps, including Westerbork in Hol- up to her and shake her hand. One bought a book learning about the Holocaust from the last genera- land and Bergen-Belsen in Germany. Blumenthal and told Marion he would read it to his two children tion of survivors, and that her mom lived to be 104 Lazan said she was a creative child and made up and share her story and they would bear witness and years old. a game called Four Perfect Pebbles. She said she never forget,” shared Diane Sloyer, UJF CEO.

A UConn police officer (name withheld) and guest speaker Marion Blumenthal The packed audience stood as Boy Scout Troop 15 led the color guard with the troop flag, Holocaust survivors and their families lit candles in Lazan as well as U.S., Israeli and pride flags. remembrance of those lost.

ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 8 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ JUNE-JULY-AUGUST 2019 B’Yachad – We are All Together Yiddish is Alive Finding LGBTQ Support in the Community and Well at JHS Schoke Jewish Family Service will present vocate for transgender rights, and says she By Elissa Kaplan a talk titled “B’Yachad – We are All Togeth- is equally passionate about removing the At a time when many people think that Yiddish is er” focused on finding LGBTQ+ support stigma around mental health and substance a threatened language and possibly dying, the Jewish in the Jewish community. The presentation abuse issues. “If we are comfortable enough Historical Society of Fairfield County is here to say will take place on Tuesday, June 4, from 7-9 to share with one another about what we or that “JHS Loves Yiddish.” pm, at Congregation Beth El, 109 East Ave., others close to us are experiencing, we will Two Judys run the Yiddish program: Judy Lieb- Norwalk. Light refreshments will be served. learn, grow and heal much more quickly,” eskind and Judith Altmann. “I wanted to bring the The keynote speaker will be Diana advises Schutt. She holds the position of sound of Yiddish back, so that I could hear my parents Schutt, a spokeswoman for Keshet, a Diana Schutt an admissions advisor for the Solomon and grandparents again,” said Liebeskind. The two national organization that works for full Schechter School of Westchester. women organize a meeting of people interested in LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, The evening will begin with the keynote speaker Yiddish the first Friday of every month at 10 am at Queer) equality and inclusion in Jewish life. Mosaic and be followed by more intimate breakout groups. the Jewish Community Center. Liebeskind explains, of Westchester, also a group Schutt is involved with, is Schoke JFS therapists will be available for support. “It is not really a class; it’s more like an experience. a local organization that offers referral to safe spaces To reserve attendance or for any questions, contact We call it ‘A Bissel Yiddish.’” for LGBTQ persons in Jewish communities. Schutt, Eve Moskowitz, Schoke JFS clinical director, at 203- Many things can happen at A Bissel Yiddish, a mother of a transgender daughter, is also an ad- 921-4161, ext. 122, or e-mail [email protected]. but, at each session, Altmann reads a letter in Yiddish from the section of the Forward called “A Bintel Brief.” Those attending work to translate the letters. Sometimes, there are songs to sing in Temple Sinai Congregants Complete Yiddish or a reading from a book like Dr. Seuss’ “The Cat in the Hat” that has been translated Leadership Program into Yiddish. The Yiddish group is also collecting traditional recipes – knadlich, strudel, kugels By Martha Kramer already run such events as a luncheon and baking and more. The fifth cohort of Temple Sinai’s Amidah Lead- challah together. In further innovation, the teams JHS devoted the month of April to Yiddish culture. ership Initiative has just concluded. The eight par- worked together to sponsor training on the new The Harry Rosenbaum JHS Judaica Library at the ticipants sharpened their leadership skills, learned website at Temple Sinai’s Mitzvah Day. The training JCC has books written in Yiddish, and the library is about temple governance, and furthered projects involved temple teenagers as reverse mentors, who open to collecting more of them. “New York’s Yiddish considered important to temple life. have volunteered to be continuing resources. Fried- Theater: From The Bowery To Broadway” by Edna The program began in October with a grounding man noted, “I am pleased that we will now be inten- Nahshon is available at the library and ready to check in Jewish leadership values and temple governance tional in engaging the seniors of our congregation. out. Columbia University Press describes the work from Rabbi Jay TelRav and temple President Marc I’m also excited that we have a team focused on the as “vividly illustrated and with essays from leading Friedman, accompanied by other board members. launch of our web site and helping our congregation historians and critics, this book recounts the heyday This was followed by sessions with leadership expert navigate through the wealth of information that it of ‘Yiddish Broadway’ and its vital contribution to Mike Markovits and Jewish leader Saul Cohen z’l, and will soon provide to all of us.” American Jewish life and crossover to the broader a case study on the issues a lay leader might face in Former temple president and originator of the American culture.” a temple setting. In December, participants broke initiative Meryl Japha said, “My first intention was On April 28, Dr. Jeff Kaplan, theater historian into two teams – one focused on helping to launch a program to enhance orientation for new Temple and professor at Manhattanville College, presented Temple Sinai’s new website (templesinaistamford. Sinai board members, but ALI has become so much a program called “Michegas: Behind the Scenes org) and the other on helping members over age 65 more. In addition, it identifies and cultivates future of Yiddish Theater.” Kaplan discussed Yiddish as stay connected to temple life. Both teams reported leaders while enhancing temple life.” language and a culture. He also spoke about the to the temple board at its April meeting. The ALI participants were Eve Block, Sharon history of Yiddish theater in the United States. He The website team conceived and implemented a Goldstein, Mike Himelstein, Robin Himelstein, included the history of the funding of Yiddish theater multi-pronged communication strategy, including Jennifer Kramer, Gabriela Hutchion Marcus, Susan by the Works Progress Administration during the banner, video, e-mail, articles, Facebook and Ins- Pelish-Thaler and Judah Plotner. ALI is designed Depression. Members of the audience laughed and tagram. After conducting surveys with members of and run by a volunteer committee of Japha, Lee Ann gasped at scenes from Yiddish plays, now available the targeted cohort, the “Stay Connected” team has Heller, Martha Kramer, Mike Stone and Steve Zales. via YouTube. JHS is planning a trip to the Yiddish Book Center in Amherst, MA, in July to attend Yidstock: The Festival Loaves of Love Delivers Taste of of New Yiddish Music. Anyone interested in going on the trip or who has any questions should contact the Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield County at Shabbat 203-321-1373, ext.150, or [email protected], or check At the start of every week, Leah Shemtov of Chabad Ronnie Lilien, Abby Goldberg, Elayne Dener and out the website http://jhsfc-ct.org. of Stamford and her staff begin to think about who Taly Farber. Although they say they are sometimes The Jewish Historical Society displays, shares might need a Loaves of Love package to be delivered met with surprise by the recipients of the Loaves of and preserves memories and stories at its archives on Friday before Shabbat. On average, six to eight Love, they note they are always met with “delight behind the State Cinema in Springdale. It welcomes packages are delivered each week to new moms, and appreciation.” readers, salon participants and gamers to the Harry shiva homes, people who are new to town, people Speter, who frequently delivers Loaves of Love, Rosenbaum JHS Judaica Library at the JCC. It pres- in crisis, or just about anyone that could use a “taste says, “I really enjoy bringing smiles to the sometimes ents programs and book talks. Its newest venture of Shabbat” or an “extra dose of love.” The package surprised recipients as I give them the bag with the seeks to provide a resource of Yiddish participative holds freshly baked challahs, grape juice and soup. words of Shabbat Shalom or Good Shabbos from programming. Shemtov says, “We feel privileged to give people Chabad. I do this because, as a retiree, I have the The Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield County is a a home-cooked taste of Shabbat and let them feel time, and I am very appreciative of Chabad and its recipient agency of The Federation of Jewish Philanthropy connected to the community and to know that they efforts for the Jewish community of Stamford. It is of Upper Fairfield County. are not alone.” actually a highlight of my Fridays.” The Loaves of Love packages would not get To suggest someone who could benefit from a very far without the volunteers who are willing to Loaves of Love package, to offer to deliver Loaves NextGen Continued from page 5 brave all kinds of weather to help deliver them. of Love packages, or to sponsor Loaves of Love for part of helping to ensure that children in need The core group of Loaves of Love volunteers who the week, contact Shemtov at 203-324-2223, ext. 102, within our community never spend a weekend deserve thanks are Moshe Speter, Marisa Siegel, or [email protected]. hungry,” said Price. Teams will be formed from local Jewish agencies, schools, temples and synagogues, giving the commu- nity the opportunity to come together as one to have Happy Birthday, Israel! fun and raise money for a good cause. Entrance is PJ Library celebrated Yom $25 for players and $15 for spectators. Both include Ha’atzmaut (Israel’s Independence the barbecue. Children under 8 can attend for $8 Day) on May 6 with a program held per person. at Barnes and Noble Book Store in “UJF’s Annual Dodgeball Tournament is a Stamford. Children made their own great way for our Jewish community to make a Israeli flags, colored, heard stories, difference in the lives of those less fortunate. In and sang happy birthday, in English 2018, over 80 players and spectators gathered and Hebrew, to Israel. PJ Library together to play and cheer their teams on, and offers free Jewish children’s books to we hope to reach over 100 in 2019,” says UJF CEO families in the community. For more Diane Sloyer. information about PJ Library or to To sign up for the tournament, call 203-321- hear about upcoming programs, 1373, ext. 109. UJF’s NextGen is an affinity group, contact Sharon Franklin at sharon@ ages 25-45, that offers both social and educational ujf.org or 203-321-1373, ext. 109. programs, with a focus on building a stronger At right: Caren Fester-Borowski (far left) Jewish community in Greater Stamford, Israel and and David Brand (far right) with some throughout the world. For more information about young participants at PJ Library’s Happy UJF’s Annual Dodgeball Tournament or NextGen, Birthday Israel program. contact Sharon Franklin at [email protected]. JUNE-JULY-AUGUST 2019 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 9 Jeff Goldblum Receives Hoffman Humanitarian Award At its annual meeting on May 14, the ship are inspiring. Jeff has the JCC Board of Directors in the Executive Committee for the 2016 Jewish Community Center presented nurtured the overall growth 2007. Goldblum has served on JCC Maccabi Games and Artsfest. Jeff Goldblum with the 2019 Hyacinthe and development of the JCC, the Executive Committee as Goldblum is the founder and CEO and Harold Hoffman Humanitarian and has been extraordinari- assistant treasurer, first vice of SWC Office Furniture, and he is a Award. Each year, the Hoffman Award ly generous with his time, president and president. principal in his family’s real estate de- is given to the individual who best energy and resources. One Since 2011, he has taken a velopment and management business. expresses the ideals of service to the of the criteria for the award leadership role in the Cen- He and his family hosted a JCC Tzahal community that Hyacinthe and Har- is selfless placement of the ter’s capital improvements Shalom officer in 2010 and became old E. Hoffman, longtime JCC leaders Center’s best interests as a campaign and facilities mod- leaders of the program, and they and distinguished humanitarians and priority, and Jeff exemplifies ernization. Goldblum also opened their home in 2006 and again philanthropists, exemplified during this trait every day.” chaired the JCC’s Julius B. and in 2016 to host JCC Maccabi athletes. their lifetimes. Goldblum has been a Edward Kuriansky Memorial Goldblum and his wife Risa are “The Hoffman Award selection dedicated JCC volunteer and Jeff Goldblum Golf and Tennis Outing for members of Congregation Agudath committee, made up of past Hoffman lay leader for many years, several years, served as a co- Sholom, and live in Pound Ridge, NY. Award winners, selected Jeff Gold- beginning when his children were in chair on the journal committee for the They have three children: Jordan, Elyse blum to receive this year’s award,” nursery school. He chaired the golf gala, chaired the JCC Board of Directors and Aaron. said Marshall Kurland, JCC CEO. “His committee for the 2006 Stamford JCC Nominating Committee, has served on The Stamford JCC is a recipient agency commitment, dedication and leader- Maccabi Games, and he was elected to the Finance Committee, and served on of United Jewish Federation. Teen Community Philanthropists Make an Impact Celebrating 2019 Kuriansky Teen Tzedakah Corps Leaders By Jessie Katz bers crafted an organization mission The Kuriansky Teen Tzedakah statement, unique to their cohort, Corps, a program of United Jewish which included specific causes to fund. Federation, is a teen philanthropic This year, they decided to focus their leadership program designed to train efforts to fundraise and allocate funds the next generation of community for nonprofit organizations that focus philanthropists. The Corps members on helping people who live in the were accepted from a pool of 10th-12th- region become self-sustaining. “Every graders representing nine public and person has talents that can be used to private regional high schools. strengthen and aid our communities,” Each month of the academic year, the stated Shalhevet Cohen. Corps mem- 20 Corps members met to explore the bers created a plan to send requests for fundamentals of philanthropy. Topics proposals throughout the community. included analyzing and measuring im- They navigated the full grant allocation pact, conducting site visits, and compar- process, including visiting the site of an ing and contrasting Jewish and secular applicant. “Because of KTTC, we now philanthropic values. They learned know how to solve issues within organi- about and debated real communal issues zations, how to allocate funds, and give At the final Kuriansky Teen Tzedakah Corps session, the teens reflected on what was with executive staff and lay leaders from back to the community,” added Cohen. challenging and what they learned through a team-building activity. Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy, The Tik- In the final sessions, Corps members vah Fund, Schoke Jewish Family Service, evaluated proposals and decided to Domus Kids, Young Israel of Stamford, fund seven local organizations. Congregation Agudath Sholom, Inspiri- The 2019 Kuriansky Teen Tzedakah ca and the Stamford Jewish Community Corps grant recipients and projects are: Center. “The speakers opened up our ‹‹ Horizons at New Canaan Country eyes to organizations that we may nev- School – Horizons High School Pro- er have been exposed to before this gram $900 program,” stated Georgia Baer. Adin ‹‹ Inspirica – Children’s Services Pro- Fogel added that being a member of gram $900 KTTC was “a meaningful experience ‹‹ Domus Kids – Domus Family Advo- that helped teach me the ins and outs cates $900 of philanthropy.” ‹‹ Person-to-Person – P2P Camperships A core component of the program $900 is a matching gift-driven fundraising ‹‹ Schoke Jewish Family Service – Ho- process, courtesy of a generous gift locaust Survivor Socialization Trans- from the Louis J. Kuriansky Family portation $800 Foundation. For seven years, the ‹‹ The Stamford JCC – Community Foundation has dedicated funds to Garden $300 the Corps to introduce teens to philan- ‹‹ Friendship Circle – Birthday Pack- thropy and foster leadership skills and ages $300 Jewish values. The participants were The program culminated with an charged with raising their own funds award ceremony acknowledging the to match the Foundation grant. They grant recipients on May 21. “I hope ran personal fundraising drives, babysat to use the inspirational lessons that I and led call nights. “This incredible learned in this philanthropic journey experience encouraged us to use our and apply it to everyday life, whether to talents to have leadership roles in our work ethic, school, or something out- community. This program helped give side of school. I want to make sure that me a new perspective on the world of I give back,” concluded Jed Devillers. philanthropy,” Zev Pinker said. Jessie Katz is the director of the Kuriansky At the start of the year, Corps mem- Teen Tzedakah Corps. Israel Advocates Meet with Congressman Himes

Congregation Agudath Sholom Israel Advocacy leadership met at the synagogue on May 3 to discuss issues of concern with Congressman Jim Himes. L-r: Susan Mark, Ken Schwartz, Rabbi Daniel Cohen (senior rabbi of Congregation Agudath Sholom), Congressman Jim Himes, Ben Lanson and Glenn Reicin. ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 10 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ JUNE-JULY-AUGUST 2019 JUNE-JULY-AUGUST 2019 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 11 12 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ JUNE-JULY-AUGUST 2019 Anachnu Program Brings Survivors Together By Lynn Saltz performed along with a photo ex- The Jewish Federations of North hibit by a local Holocaust survivor. America Center for Advancing Holo- A picnic will be held at Cove Park caust Survivor Care awarded Schoke and include live concert of Russian Jewish Family Service with a grant and Soviet songs. A recital of Rus- to help the organization advance sian romance songs will take place person-centered, trauma-informed in the new, comfortable space in (or PCTI) supportive services for Ho- the Schoke JFS office in downtown locaust survivors in Fairfield County. Stamford, and we’ll be having a fun As part of this initiative, Schoke JFS painting session at Pinot’s Palette in is developing, implementing and Stamford,” she said. evaluating programs in PCTI care, For more information about the including home visits and social- Holocaust Survivor Care Program or ization groups, to reduce isolation to participate, contact Sapir at 203- among this vulnerable population. 921-4161 or e-mail at [email protected]. The program, Anachnu (We are Russian language services are available together so you are not alone), will to participants if required. also bring PCTI-informed staff train- Lynn Saltz is marketing and ings to the community, something The Anachnu Program participants traveled to the Ridgefield Playhouse for an event. communications coordinator of Schoke JFS. that is not currently offered by any local agencies, and create a learning interviewing the survivors. opportunity for the community as a When Schoke Jewish Family Ser- whole, sharing best practices in the vice began the rollout of the program Friendship Circle field of trauma work. at the end of March, more than 40 In addition to social events, Anach- Holocaust survivors were entertained nu is also offering these services: by Jewish music and songs by the chil- Appreciates Teens clients with vision or health problems dren of Gan Yeladim Nursery School On May 5, the Friendship Circle can obtain Russian audio-books and at Chabad of Stamford. The Anachnu hosted its Teen Appreciation event at listening devices from the Library of program took 10 Holocaust survivors Congregation Agudath Sholom. Teens Congress; a database of volunteers from Stamford to the Ridgefield had a chance to socialize and discuss who by phone can provide transla- Playhouse, before Passover, to view their year volunteering before the tion during medical appointments by the film “The Golden Age,” featuring program began. advance request; referral of Russian performances by the Bolshoi Ballet. Adin Fogel, who volunteers as part clients to a non-emergency transpor- This event was the second social out- of the “Friends at Home” program, in tation service; and a friendly visitor ing for Holocaust survivors. which teens visit a child with special program with Betsy’s Buddies of Marina Sapir, program director for needs at their home, said, “I have really Chabad and other volunteers. Anachnu, previewed future events. enjoyed being involved in friends at In the future, Anachnu is planning “We will be organizing a variety of home this year. It has been amazing to create a “From the Past to the activities through the summer with to get to know Daniel and to hang out Tim Hanna, one of the graduating teens, Present” program, with children at- a Café Europa gathering, includ- with him on Sunday mornings.” together with his buddy, Tamir Shashouah. tending Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy ing lunch. There will be live music After chatting and enjoying brunch, the teens watched a video about what Circle, and their commitment and it means to live with special needs, and dedication to their special friends. An Evening With Israeli Journalist Gil Tamary how important it is for everyone to feel They each received a mezuzah to hang Congregation Agudath Sholom’s Israel Advocacy Committee, in part- included and accepted for who they are. on the door of their college dorm nership with Israel Bonds, invites the community to an evening with Gil One of the highlights of the morning rooms, to help them remember the Tamary, the Washington bureau chief for Israel’s Channel 13 News, on was when Lisa Klein, a mother of a child time spent volunteering and the lessons Tuesday, June 4, at 7:30 pm, at Agudath Sholom, 301 Strawberry Hill Ave. with special needs, spoke to the teens they learned. As the teens dispersed, Tamary will speak about “Beresheet,” the Israeli spacecraft that was to land about what the Friendship Circle means everyone received a Friendship Circle on the moon. Those attending will hear his first-hand experience cover- to her son and their entire family. “The bucket hat that the teen board chose ing the story, which he said captures “Israeli spirit, innovation, courage, Friendship Circle gave us life,” she said. as a token of appreciation. chutzpah and resilience.” “It gave us a family of friends who live For more information on the Friend- Tamary is known by many Israelis as a top news reporter. He has worked for our life, experience our highs and lows, ship Circle, and to become involved or Israel’s Channel 10, Israel Broadcasting Authority, Israel Public Radio, and as support us when we need it most, and get your teen involved, contact Friend- anchor and chief editor of “Good Morning Israel.” He covers a wide range of remind us that what makes our children ship Circle Director Malya Shmotkin at Middle East issues from the U.S. and conducts exclusive interviews with many special makes us all special.” [email protected]. dignitaries and political figures, including presidents, secretaries of state, sen- All the graduating seniors were hon- The Friendship Circle is a recipient agency ators and business leaders. ored for their service to the Friendship of United Jewish Federation. Schoke Jewish Family Service Programs & Activities June - July - August Pamela and Michael Hirsch Kosher Home Delivered Meal Employment and Life Transitions Support Group, Program - Seven meals will be delivered weekly to those in Wednesdays, 1st and 3rd of every month, 3:00 pm at our community who have difficulty shopping and preparing Stamford office of Schoke JFS. Looking for emotional their own food. Once a week, a volunteer will deliver the support while searching for employment? Need seven microwave ready meals and spend time visiting with the practical help during the job search? Join the support recipients, should they desire. This is a subscription service. group, facilitated by Lois Meyer, LMSW, Schoke JFS Case Reduced rates will be available for families who qualify. For Manager, to help you through this transition. No cost. For more information, please contact Jill Knopoff, Volunteer registration, please contact Lois Meyer at 203-921-4161 or Coordinator at 201-921-4161 or email at [email protected] email [email protected] Living with Loss: Schoke JFS Bereavement Support Group Let’s Talk – Mondays, 1:30 pm at Jewish Senior Services, 4200 Park Seniors talk about common interests and concerns, Avenue, Bridgeport and Fridays, 12:30 pm at Stamford office facilitated by a Schoke Jewish Family Service counselor. of Schoke JFS. Find the healing which comes of being with others who know first-hand what you are going through. Tuesdays, 11 :00 AM, free at the Stamford JCC, 1035 Newfield Learn how Jewish ritual, prayer and tradition can support Avenue Contact Helene Wurtzel at 203-921-4161 or the grieving process. For more information or to register, [email protected]. please contact Amanda Geffner, Schoke JFS Psychotherapist, at 203-921-4161 or email [email protected] Thursdays, bimonthly, 10:30 am, free at Jewish Senior Services, Divorce Support Group-Wednesdays, starting May 13 4200 Park Avenue, Bridgeport Contact Rebekah Kanefsky for and will be ongoing at 6:45 pm at the Stamford offices of exact dates at 203-921-4161 or [email protected] Schoke JFS. The group will explore, look, listen, learn and love about the topic of separation, divorce and parenting. Thursdays, 1:00 pm at Westport Senior Center Contact For more information, please contact Lois Meyer, LMSW at Helene Wurtzel at 203-921-4161 or [email protected]. 203-921-4161 or email at [email protected] JUNE-JULY-AUGUST 2019 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 13 UJF’s Annual Legislative Breakfast In early May, United Jewish Feder- UJF’s JCRC Chair Peter Lilienthal was ation’s Jewish Community Relations called instrumental in the success of this Council partnered with Jewish Fed- event, with representatives from Bi-Cul- eration Association of Connecticut tural Hebrew Academy, Congregation for a legislative breakfast. UJF is one Agudath Sholom and Schoke Jewish of seven Federations in the state of Family Service in attendance, as well Connecticut that works with JFACT. as 30 concerned community members. JFACT represents Connecticut’s Jew- Participants were given the oppor- ish community’s concerns at the state tunity to ask questions. Discussion government level. included conversations on a bill to tax State Representative David Michel, nonprofit endowments, state income State Representative Lucy Dathan, State taxes, public safety and environmental Senator Carlo Leone, State Representa- concerns, vaccines, and the safety of tive Matt Blumenthal, State Represen- Jewish institutions. tative Daniel Fox, State Senator Alex “It was interesting to hear such a Bergstein and State Representative wide range of topics discussed,” shared State legislators attended UJF’s legislative breakfast. Caroline Simmons were in attendance Lilienthal. “I appreciate the candor at the event at Congregation Agudath of our elected officials and appreciate Sholom. They each shared their back- their thoughts and work on behalf of Senator Murphy Briefs ground as well as what issues they are issues that concern our community.” working on. Michael Bloom, executive For more information about director of JFACT, served as the mod- UJF’s JCRC, contact Diane Sloyer at Jewish Leadership erator for the program. [email protected].

Tenth Annual JCC Youth Triathlon The Stamford Jewish Community Center will hold its 10th annual Youth Tri- athlon on Sunday, June 16, at the JCC on Newfield Avenue. Katchko and Sons is the presenting sponsor of the 2019 Youth Triathlon. Check-in is at 7 am, with a triathlon start time of 8 am. “Triathlon has grown tremendously as a popular sport for adults, and the JCC gives children the opportunity to compete in an arena where the focus is on fun, fitness and personal challenge,” said Mo Concepcion, the JCC’s managing director of youth and family. “The Youth Tri nurtures children’s abilities and encourages them to live active and healthy lifestyles.” The triathlon will consist of races in swimming, cycling and running. The event will begin in the JCC pool, then move to the bicycle course on nearby roads that will be UJF CEO Diane Sloyer and Stephne Behrend were among the Connecticut Jewish leaders closed to vehicular traffic. Younger children will remain on the JCC property for the invited to Hartford on April 29 for a briefing following Senator Chris Murphy’s trip bicycle portion. The final running leg is held on JCC property for all of the racers. to the Middle East. Murphy traveled with Senator Mitt Romney to Israel, Ramallah, “This is an opportunity for young athletes to participate in an enjoyable life Jordan and Iraq. He spoke with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu by phone experience through athletics,” Concepcion concluded, “one that encourages as he concluded the Passover holiday, and met with U.S. Ambassador David Friedman self-confidence, good health and community spirit through participation.” and others about the new Middle East Peace Plan, which he believes will be unveiled at For information or to register, visit stamfordjcc.org or contact Concepcion the conclusion of Ramadan. Murphy and Romney were the first bipartisan delegation to at 203-487-0971 or [email protected]. meet with the new president of the Palestinian Authority.

ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 14 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ JUNE-JULY-AUGUST 2019 New Bi-Cultural Athletics Program Has a Championship Season By Judie Jacobson enth-eighth grade basketball team for When it comes to creating a success- four years before joining the faculty this ful youth athletics program, it’s thought past September. Previously, he served to be all about dialogue. for five years as a sports and recreation “To build a sports program from coordinator at the Stamford Jewish the ground up, you first have to build Community Center. a dialogue with both students and As the academic year comes to a parents,” says Stefan Driehuizen, close, the new sports program has the athletics director and physical exceeded his expectations. education teacher at Bi-Cultural “This year we’ve already had seven Hebrew Academy, who has launched official sports teams competing in the the school’s first comprehensive af- FAA [the Fairchester Athletic Associ- ter-school athletics program. “When ation, a sports league comprised of I introduce kids to a new team sport private schools in Fairfield County and – basketball, baseball, volleyball, Westchester],” says Driehuizen, noting etc. – I start out by sharing my own that the school’s fifth-sixth grade girls personal experiences and how much basketball team is this year’s division participating in team sports impacted champ – and the first undefeated team my life.” That opens a dialogue, he in Bi-Cultural history. says, that extends to parents as well. In addition to the sports of volleyball, “This year, we concentrated on lay- cross-country and basketball – includ- ing the foundation of a solid program ing a JV boys high school basketball that will grow as we move forward,” team – this spring, a coed tennis team says Driehuizen. “A big part of the was added to the mix, as well as a Junior program’s success has depended upon Bobcats team for pre-kindergarten getting information out to parents, through fourth grade, and a basketball and creating a dialogue so they are fundamentals and skills clinic. knowledgeable about the benefits of “Kids may not realize it, but the after-school sports. When I took on benefits of participating in team sports this role, a lot of parents were in the go well beyond the court,” said Drie- This year, the Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy fifth-sixth grade girls’ basketball team was dark. They didn’t know what was being huizen. “It teaches them about hard unseeded and earned the title of division champion. offered. But ongoing and effective com- work, dedication, dealing with both munication with parents has brought success and failure, and developing the The road ahead looks bright, says doesn’t start out of nowhere. It starts them on board.” strong bonds and special friendships Dreihuizen. “It’s been a great first with kids they have to take a sense of Driehuizen, who holds a master’s in that come with being part of a team. year and we’ve made a lot of progress, pride in representing their school,” athletic administration from Southern Most importantly, it teaches them the but realistically it will take three to he added. Connecticut State University, served life skills they will need when they’re five years to give the program a solid Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy is a as head coach of Bi-Cultural’s sev- adults out in the world.” foundation. A good sports program recipient agency of United Jewish Federation. Eighteen Bi-Cultural Students Win Literary Awards Eighteen Bi-Cultural Hebrew Acad- Library, the competition recognizes tural students Michaela Altenburger Goldstein (grade 7-8, nonfiction). emy students in grades three-eight are excellence in writing among students (grade 4, poetry), Natalie Cohen BCHA students earning Honor- recipients of awards in the 34th Annual in grades three through 12. (grade 5, fiction), Noa Farber (grade able mention were Lolly Socaransky Stamford Literary Competition. Spon- Taking home first prize in their 5, poetry), Renata Bomash (grade 6, (grade 4, poetry), Yael Hochman sored by the Friends of the Ferguson respective categories were Bi-Cul- poetry) and David Klein (grade 7-8, (grade 6, poetry), Elle Leferman nonfiction). (grade 7-8, nonfiction) and Ella Bi-Cultural second prize winners Hecht (grade 7-8, poetry). were Jack Steinberg (grade 3, fiction), “At Bi-Cultural, our goal is to grow Bi-Cultural Teen Selected Elle Riker (grade 4, poetry), Bar Avra- tomorrow’s leaders who will make the ham (grade 5, poetry), Leah Raich world a better, more compassionate, (grade 6, poetry) and Rebecka Grun- place – and reading and writing well for Yale Summer Program berg (grade 7-8, nonfiction). are essential tools in reaching that Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy upper Third prize went to BCHA students goal,” says Bi-Cultural Head of School school junior Sarah Hanna of Stamford Nathaniel Munenzon (grade 3, poetry), Jackie Herman. was among a select group of high school Ava Grunberg (grade 4, fiction), Yoav Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy is a students from all across the country Hochman (grade 5, poetry) and Esther recipient agency of United Jewish Federation. chosen to participate in Yale Univer- sity’s Discovery to Cure High School Internship Program. Established in 2003, the summer History Comes to Life at program introduces rising high school seniors to Yale’s biomedical laborato- ries in the hope that they will consider Bi-Cultural pursuing careers in the fields of science and medicine. Only 12 percent of eligi- ble students are selected to participate in the program. Over the course of several weeks during the summer, participating teens Sarah Hanna studying at Bi-Cultural are assigned mentors and spend time Hebrew Academy’s upper school. participating in a research project directed by the program’s principal “I am excited about what this sum- investigator. The Discovery to Cure mer holds and the opportunities the program culminates with the delivery Discovery to Cure program may lead by each student of a 10-minute presen- to,” says Hanna. tation about his or her research project Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy is to an audience composed of Yale staff, a recipient agency of United Jewish family members and others. Federation.

To advertise or for more information, please contact Bonnie Rozen at (800)779-7896, ext. 244 or Fourth-graders at Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy made history rise and shine one recent [email protected] or evening in April by portraying a variety of historical figures whose lives and accomplishments Diane Sloyer at (203) 321-1373, ext 105 or [email protected] they had spent time researching. The school’s annual Living History Night enabled the school’s young students to make connections to the past and learn from it. Among the fourth-graders “making history” at BCHA were (l- r) Elle “Amelia Earhart” Riker, Eva “Coretta Scott King” Halperin, Ella “Jackie Kennedy” Dulitz, Samantha “Betsy Ross” Schnelwar, Yael “Susan B. Anthony” Green, Ben “Ben Franklin” Winarsky and Hannah “Milton Hershey” Bahar. JUNE-JULY-AUGUST 2019 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 15 Carmel Academy Honors Alumni for Their Military Service By Julie Lapin Carmel Academy honored 14 alumni at its annual Erev Tov Gala on April at Brae Burn Country Club. The theme of the evening was “Celebrating Service”; each of the alumni honored either serves or has served in the U.S. Armed Forces or Israeli Defense Forces. From combat IDF soldiers to Naval Academy midship- men, each of the honorees has chosen to protect their communities and country. “The number of students choosing military service is high for a school that has graduated 12 classes and 200 students,” said Head of School Nora An- derson. “Service and giving back to our Carmel Academy’s Head of School Nora community are among the strongest Anderson with Elias Boyer (class of 2012), values Carmel Academy holds dear, and L-r: Carmel Academy alumnae Olivia Shapiro, Eliza Loewenberg, Adira Orbach and a second class midshipman in the Navy all of our alumni honorees have taken Carly Marinstein at the school’s annual Erev Tov Gala. Shapiro was one of 14 alumni ROTC and a junior at the Georgia Institute these values to extraordinary heights; honored for her service. She will be attending the United States Naval Academy at of Technology. we are thrilled to honor them.” Annapolis next year. “By joining the fleet of midshipmen at the United States Naval Academy, trip to Israel. He served as a lone soldier Philip Goldberg and his wife, Sergeant I look forward to building on the in the Nachal Infantry Brigade. First Class Yesenia Ochoa, were also foundation of service Carmel helped “The most important lesson I learned recognized. Ochoa recently returned shape in me and to become the best at Carmel was to live the values I know from a year in Kuwait, when she had to leader I can be in continuing service to be true. Since I wanted to learn more leave behind her husband and two chil- to my community and country,” said about my homeland, keep Israel safe and dren. The Carmel Academy community Ryan Grafman (class of 2015), who will become part of its society and culture, helped the family. Students video-chat- be attending the United States Naval it only made sense that I served in the ted with Ochoa while she was in Kuwait, Academy at Annapolis next year. IDF. … As anyone who has served in any and sent her and her fellow troops care “I believe it is important for American army, I gained much more than I gave packages. When Ochoa returned home, Jews to give back to our country and to during my service,” Sohn said. Carmel helped orchestrate a surprise the communities that have supported us, Carmel also honored parent volun- reunion between husband and wife. and I am honored every day to be able to teers Farell and Colin Diamond. From “There is a love that we have felt from do so,” said Jonah Smart ( class of 2012), volunteering for Teach For America a family that we weren’t born into – a who is a student at Cornell University to serving as a lawyer in the Judge Ad- community that took us in and showed Carmel Academy alumnus Philip Steinmetz, where he is a cadet in the Army ROTC. vocate General Corps of the IDF, the all the Jewish values of care and love for who served in the IDF, and his wife, Eve Noam Sohn (class of 2007) said he couple has a lifelong commitment to their neighbor,” Goldberg said. Wiener, at Carmel Academy’s Erev Tov knew he would join the IDF after re- Jewish life and public service. Carmel Academy is a recipient agency of Gala. turning from his Carmel eighth grade Carmel’s physical education teacher United Jewish Federation. Carmel Students Pitch Inventions in “Shark Tank” Contest By Julie Lapin said sixth-grader The printing press, kinetoscope, Nathan Toback typewriter, telephone, motion picture, who was seeking radio and television were once the fu- a $10,000 invest- ture of communication! That was the ment, which would mindset of Carmel Academy’s sixth- and equate to $100,000 seventh-graders as they put themselves in today’s market. in the shoes of the inventors of history’s “This feels very most important communication tools. exciting. I feel like As a part of their unit on information the future may be revolutions, Carmel Academy’s middle here,” said a shark, school students each studied a inven- AKA Carmel Acade- tion in history that was used to help my Principal Rebec- spread information. Then they took on ca Hammerman, as Carmel Academy sixth-graders Yishai Orbach and Carmel Academy sixth-graders Shira Hope and Rachel the persona of an inventor and worked she considered in- Mordechai Ross prepared to pitch the typewriter for their Moerdler-Green presented the motion picture as part of with a partner to create a “pitch” for vesting in television. “Shark Tank” presentation. their “Shark Tank” presentation. their invention, using the guidelines Fellow shark and on the TV reality show “Shark Tank.” middle school teacher Chrissy Valvano Students presented their pitch, had doubts. “Not everyone in America along with a model of their invention, can afford one of these televisions. Who Off to Israel! to the “sharks” (Carmel teachers) in else will be your market?” she asked. The entire school community Each year, Carmel Academy’s eighth search of an investment to get their Middle school teacher and shark Toby gathered to wish Carmel Academy’s grade students spend two weeks in Israel inventions into the mass market. Ring was also not convinced the television eighth grade class nesiyah tova (a on a journey designed as a culmination “With the help of you sharks, every would have mass market appeal: “I don’t good trip) as the students prepared of their years of integrated learning. American can access information to think this is the future. People will lose to leave for their eighth grade trip to Their travels take them throughout stay up-to-date on everyday topics. their creativity if they watch television.” Israel on April 29. Each grade shared Israel during the period just after Pe- Television is the future of electronics,” See “Contest” on page 18 their excitement by singing songs and sach that includes Yom Hashoah, Yom Traditions Continue at sharing blessings. Hazikaron and Yom Ha’atzmaut. Carmel Academy Carmel Academy’s first grade students received their first siddur (prayer book) in front of parents and guests at their Siddur Ceremony in April. The school’s first-graders worked throughout the year to reach this occasion. They led the audience in tefillah (prayer), and, in a video, each described their favorite prayer. Each child’s parent inscribed the new siddurim with a personal message. The walls of the school’s auditorium were adorned with each student’s self-portrait holding their siddur and describing the prayer they like the most. Shown are first grade students Asher Diamond and Zoey Neumeier saying a prayer Carmel Academy parents Dana and Stuart Roth wished their son, Evan, a good trip as along with their classmates using their new siddurim. (Photo by Sarah Divi) he embarked for Israel. (Photo by Sarah Divi) ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 16 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ JUNE-JULY-AUGUST 2019 VOICES AND VIEWS teen voices JCC Tzahal Shalom Soldiers Having it All Win Hearts By Emily Seligson recurring pattern: all of By Nancy Schiffman When I was 9, I was gifted the schools were relatively After a week-long, whirlwind tour with my first pair of figure far from Stamford where I speaking to schoolchildren, teens skates, and two years later live, and ended late in the and adults of all ages throughout I joined a synchronized day – definitely too late for Fairfield County, as well as Stamford skating team. Synchronized me to make it home for government officials, this year’s JCC skating (synchro) is a team any synchro practices. I was Tzahal Shalom soldiers continue to sport where eight to 16 figure starting to worry that I would win the hearts of young and old alike. skaters skate in unison. With- have to choose between skat- Their personal stories, experiences in my first year, I fell in love ing and Judaism, both huge and spirit engage all, and represent with the sport, my teammates, parts of my identity. Finally, the best of Israel. performing and the thrill of Emily Seligson one school broke this trou- Marni Amsellem, Stephanie and “flying” across the ice. I knew bling pattern – Bi-Cultural Josh Bilenker, Rabbi Daniel and Diane it was something I would continue for Hebrew Academy’s upper school. Cohen, Eve and Seth Lapine, Holly and as long as I could. BCHA is a local Stamford Jewish Noah Lapine, Risa and Steven Raich, Although synchro was tons of fun, high school which starts at 8:40 am and Shana and Rob Yakubovich, who it also came with lots of commitment. and ends at 3:40 pm, giving me just hosted the soldiers, have lovingly add- I skated on in eighth and ninth grades enough time for both my before and ed a new member to their family roster, for the Shimmers, and had practices after school rink visits. It also allows as life-long connections were made two to three times a week. One was two me to grow Judaically while still being with these young men and women. and a half hours, evenly split between able to be myself on the ice. I always This excerpt of a heartfelt poem by on ice practice and off ice strength thought I was the only Jewish person 14-year-old host sister Allison Yakubo- and conditioning. Every third Friday, on my team, but I learned that several vich to her new big brother, Captain we also had on ice and off ice practic- of my teammates were Jewish, and I Yuval, captures the essence of these The members of the 2019 JCC Tzahal Shalom es, and the most fun was our weekly even attended several of their bat mitz- profound relationships: delegation. 5:30-6:30 am practice, where I would vahs. There are many nationalities and When you first arrived in Stamford, routinely get to see the sun rise over cultures represented on my team(s) Connecticut We can’t thank you enough for your the cove. We are expected to keep up and it’s interesting to learn about my We were absolutely thrilled service and improve our individual skating with teammates’ backgrounds. Admittedly, We couldn’t wait to meet you And for protecting our homeland at least one additional hour of ice time the 5:30 am practice is easier because And for the bonds we were sure to Because of you, we know for sure and 80 minutes of personal strength one of the team dads loves to bake and build That Israel is in the best of hands … and conditioning. makes us cupcakes and baklava for us We greeted each other at the JCC Though our week seemed far too As eighth grade rolled around and to grab after practice! breakfast brief I was deciding where to go to high While I’m at the rink four to five And from then we all just knew We had such a blast with you school, I kept skating in the front times a week in season and two to three We were about to make amazing Please know that now you have a of my mind. I knew since I’m an Or- times a week during off season, I still memories home thodox Jew, I wanted to continue my plan to continue to skate and improve. And learn so much from you And a family in Stamford too Jewish education. I visited a bunch For example, this upcoming season I You taught us about the Israeli army We’ll miss you! of Jewish schools, but I realized a See “All” on page 18 And what being a soldier is like Those interested in being a host You explained to us what your duty is family or getting involved in JCC When a crisis in Israel strikes Tzahal Shalom are asked to contact You went to local schools Nancy Schiffman at 203-487-0941 or To share your story with everyone [email protected]. You spoke about you’re incredible Nancy Schiffman is the JCC associate experiences executive director of development and And everything you have done signature programs.

The Tzahal Shalom delegation visited with Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy preschoolers. The soldiers also met with students in the upper and lower schools.

The 2019 JCC Tzahal Shalom delegation met with cadets at West Point. JUNE-JULY-AUGUST 2019 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 17 “Mitzvah Mania” Hits Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy was Atria and the Jewish Community Cen- caught up in community service ter; helping out at a local food bank; recently, when students engaged in and more. the school’s second annual “Mitz- “Working with our hands and our vah Mania.” Preschoolers through hearts to improve the lives of our neigh- eighth-graders fanned out across the bors is truly what tikkun olam (repair of community – freshening up a homeless the world) is all about,” said Head of shelter; enhancing the beauty of the School Jackie Herman. Stamford Nature Center and Bartlett Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy is a Arboretum; visiting with seniors at the recipient agency of United Jewish Federation. Female Muslim Braves Threats to Serve in IDF Infantry Battalion Students Sabrina Weisel (center) and Maddie Winarsky (right) visited with Ray Gag By Bat-Chen Epstein Elias friends, my country. That’s why I en- (left) at the JCC as part of the school’s Mitzvah Mania program. (Israel Hayom via JNS) – When Cpl. listed,” she says. N., who serves in a mixed-gender in- Before she heads out on leave to Blood Drive and Health Fair at TBE fantry battalion, heads out on arrest her home village in northern Israel, The Temple Beth El Men’s Club will sponsor a Red Cross Blood Drive and Health operations in nearby Palestinian vil- she dons civilian clothes and affixes Fair on Sunday, June 23, from 9 am-3 pm, at the synagogue, 350 Roxbury Rd., Stamford. lages she usually talks to the locals in her hijab, the traditional headscarf As part of the Health Fair, specialists from orthopedics, chiropractics, ear nose Arabic. N. is a 19-year-old pepper pot. that covers her hair and neck. She and throat, physical therapy, internal medicine, pediatrics, infectious disease, She’s opinionated and knows what cannot return home for the weekend in cardiology, personal training, yoga and pilates, nutrition and OBGYN will be she wants. She is an observant Muslim uniform or carrying her military-issue on hand to answer any questions. who prays five times a day and, during weapon. “There are some people in the To be a blood donor, visit www.redcrossblood.org and use the code 5288, the Ramadan fast, mostly takes night village who realized that I’m in the army or call 1-800-RED-CROSS. For further information, contact Sean Altman at shifts. She is an infantry soldier in the and started to threaten my family with [email protected] or call Steven Lander, TBE executive director, at 203- Lions of the Jordan Valley Battalion, violence,” N. says sadly. “They tried to 322-6901, ext. 304. which operates in Judea and Samaria physically attack my family and that’s and clashes with area Palestinians on scary. Even though my parents support Brain Fitness with Schoke JFS a daily basis. me, every time someone threatens Schoke Jewish Family Service will hold its next Brain Fitness Group Program “I don’t stop to think that these them, they take a step back. I was raised in July at the Stamford JCC, 1035 Newfield Ave., Stamford. Each session will be people are Arabs like me,” she says in to love people, no matter what their held on a Monday from 10:30 am-noon. On July 15, the session will focus on fluent Hebrew. “I always tell myself that religion or beliefs. “Memory and Language”; on July 22, “Memory and Organization”; and July they brought this situation – in which “In our home, they always said that 29, “Memory and Attention.” they are facing Israeli soldiers – on Arabs and Jews here are living on the Advance registration is suggested. The cost for JCC members is $8 per ses- themselves, and I perform my mission same land. But when there were terror- sion. For other community members, the cost is $10 per session. To attend all as I need to. It doesn’t matter where ist attacks, and Jews were being killed, three sessions, the cost is $20 for JCC members and $25 for other community I come from and who I pray to every the neighbors said they deserved to members. To register, contact Connie Cirillo Freeman at 203-487-0983 or e-mail day, or what I wear when I go home on die and I didn’t understand how they [email protected]. leave. When I’m on a mission I need could say such things. I saw how difficult For further information, contact Dr. Toby Lazarus, Schoke JFS Brain Fitness to carry it out, in order to protect my See “Serve” on page 19 Program coordinator, at 203-921-4161 or [email protected].

ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 18 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ JUNE-JULY-AUGUST 2019 Shavuot Cheesecake Cookies By Ronnie Fein cheesecake. the melted butter and mix until the Put away the brisket. Forget the Would it? mixture is crumbly. Remove one cup roasted chicken. Although these two Cheesecake is of this mixture and set it aside. Place dishes are the culinary icons of many really rich and, the remaining mixture inside an 8-inch other Jewish holidays, they’re just not after a meal load- square baking pan. Press the crumbs right for Shavuot, which begins at sun- ed with dairy down firmly to cover the bottom of the down on Saturday, June 8, this year. On items, I find we pan evenly. Bake for 12-15 minutes or Shavuot, we go all-in for dairy: blintzes actually only can until firm. Remove the pan from the stuffed with cheese, cream cheese and eat a tiny slice of oven and set it aside. sour cream laden noodle kugel, and it. So a few years Beat the cream cheese and sugar of course, cheesecake. ago I decided together in the bowl of an electric It wouldn’t be Shavuot without to make cheese- The cover of Ronnie mixer set at medium speed for 1-2 cake cookies in- Fein’s newest cookbook, minutes or until well blended. Add stead of a whole “The Modern Kosher Rose’s Cheesecake Cookies the egg, lemon juice, milk and vanilla, Shalom Baby cake. This des- Kitchen” and beat the ingredients for another sert is still cheesecake, after all, but Rose’s Cheesecake Cookies minute or until thoroughly blended. already cut into small portions. 1/3 cup butter Spoon the cheese mixture evenly over The recipe I used came from a box 1 cup all-purpose flour the baked crumbs. Top with the re- that contained some of my mother’s ½ cup chopped nuts maining, reserved unbaked crumbs. handwritten recipes. I had never 1/3 cup packed brown sugar Bake for about 25 minutes or until tasted these and the handwriting 8 ounces cream cheese golden brown. Remove from the oven on the recipe wasn’t hers. Besides, ¼ cup sugar and let cool. Cut into small squares. it was signed “Rose.” I have no idea 1 large egg Makes 16 cookies. who that was. 1 Tbsp. lemon juice Ronnie Fein is a cookbook author, food But her recipe was awesome. 2 Tbsp. milk or cream writer and cooking teacher in Stamford. So now, although I do still make 1 tsp. vanilla extract She is the author of “The Modern Kosher cheesecake on occasion, I definitely Preheat the oven to 350°F. Melt the Kitchen” and “Hip Kosher.” Visit her bake these, the most fabulous, sweet- butter and set it aside. food blog, Kitchen Vignettes, at www. and-salty, tangy with cheese, creamy In a medium bowl, combine the ronniefein.com, friend her on Facebook at centered but crusty sandwiched cookies flour, nuts and brown sugar, and mix to RonnieVailFein, or follow her on Twitter you can imagine. distribute the ingredients evenly. Add and Instagram at @RonnieVFein.

Kimmie Warmflash and her daughter Liana Jerusalem Continued from page 1 received a Shalom Baby visit to welcome In ancient Israel, the main means over the steps, which was Liana to the community. Liana is the newest of transportation was freight animals, very difficult. Now, thank “UJF Future Philanthropist.” If you have such as camels, mules and horses. The God, it’s much easier for recently had a baby, or know someone who steep paths, narrow streets, and twists her to come.” has, contact Sharon Franklin at sharon@ and turns of the stoned city of Jerusalem The project mainly ujf.org to arrange a visit and a Shalom Baby were built according to natural topog- focused on the New welcome bag filled with baby items and toys. raphy; in fact, the difference between Gate and the Jaffa Gate the highest and lowest points of the because they are “an The New Jewish Voice Old City is about 180 feet. intersection between Beginning as a project to help the Armenian, Jewish, “The New Jewish Voice” (USPS #184) is published monthly people more efficiently navigate these [Christian] and Muslim by the United Jewish Federation Inc., 1035 Newfield Ave., Stamford, CT 06905-2521. often challenging aspects of the Old quarters,” said Yitzchak www.ujf.org for updates and donations City, organizers initially met with dis- Sabato, director of the abled residents to develop plans that Social Development Ricky Arbron...... President would make the area better suited Fund. The project, he Diane Sloyer...... CEO, Advertising Representative to their needs. “We had a wonderful added, “is a symbol of Advisory Committee collaboration with the citizens here integrating people from Meryl Gordon...... Chair and all the businesses,” says Amir Ha- all kinds, no matter from Meryl Japha, Nancy Schulman, Ellen Weber levy, director general of the Ministry where they come.” Reporter Group Staff of Tourism. However, while the ac- The Reporter Group edits and publishes The New Jewish Voice. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cessibility issue has been Rabbi Rachel Esserman...... Executive Editor Old City of Jerusalem is home to about solved, a new problem Diana Sochor...... Layout Editor 40,000 residents and is the most visited has arisen. The ramps Ilene Pinsker...... Assistant Editor Jenn DePersis...... Production Coordinator place in Israel, with about 10,000,000 have made the Old City Bonnie Rozen...... Advertising Representative tourists a year. The improvements have so easy to get around Kathy Brown...... Bookkeeper helped both residents and tourists, who that motor-vehicle driv- once had to climb hundreds of stairs ers have begun using Opinions A view of wheelchair accessible ramps in the Christian The views expressed in editorials and opinion pieces each day to make their way around them to speed through Quarter of the Old City of Jerusalem. (Photo by Shlomo are those of each author and not necessarily the views the city. the streets and alleys of Deutsch) of the United Jewish Federation. Jewish Quarter resident Esther the city. Letters Mendlowitz said, “We have a lot of George Sandrouni, a shop owner making a mess and jam up the city. The New Jewish Voice welcomes letters on subjects of stairs on our street and they built in the Old City’s Christian Quarter, “We don’t need that in the Old interest to the Jewish community. All letters must be three new ramps. The ramps have expressed some dissatisfaction with City,” he said with a heavy sigh. “It’s signed and include a phone number. The editor may really helped one of the residents the project, telling JNS, “Unfortu- a good thing to make it accessible to withhold the name upon request. with a family member in a wheelchair. nately, we have seen that a lot of [the [disabled] people, but it should also Kashruth Whenever she came for Shabbat, the newly installed ramps] have been be buffered by some laws and regula- We are not responsible for the Kashruth of any adver- family had to build a makeshift ramp used by motorcycles… that are really tions about all those motor vehicles tiser’s product or establishment. that the roads weren’t designated for in the first place.” Continued from page 16 HOW TO REACH THE EDITOR: All Along with the physical improve- Mail: Sandy Golove will skate on the highest level team, the ing and continue my Jewish education, ments to the city, the project included 1035 Newfield Ave. - Suite 200 Shadows. Staying completely true to my two things that are very meaningful to the development of an app to navi- Stamford, CT 06905-2521 word, I plan on choosing a college with me and close to my heart. gate the city’s accessible roads. Ruvi E-mail: [email protected] a synchronized skating team because Emily Seligson is currently a ninth-grader Lang, one of the app’s developers, Phone: (203) 912-9945 my passion for skating only grows more at BCHA and skates locally at Terry Conners spoke about a key feature, saying, Send article submissions via e-mail to and more every day. Rink. She lives in Stamford with her parents “Disabled people can choose sites, Sandy Golove at [email protected] I feel fortunate I can continue skat- and has two older brothers. and the application automatically marked “Stamford Voice” in the subject calculates to give the best, fastest and line. Expect an acknowledgement; shortest accessible way to each site.” please re-send if you do not receive one. Contest Continued from page 15 Lang also mentioned that given HOW TO REACH THE The students prepared for their “Shark marketing plan, including possible the uniqueness of the technology, ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES: Tank” pitches by researching the inven- slogans, and tag lines. the company is in talks with Berlin BONNIE ROZEN tors behind these communication tools, The sharks often peppered the in- and Barcelona about implementing Phone: 1-800-779-7896, ext. 244 as well as the time period in which they ventors with questions, while negotiat- such advances to help disabled cit- E-mail: [email protected] izens and residents in those cities DIANE SLOYER were invented, Valvano said. They then ing for an increased share in the profits. Phone: (203) 321-1373, ext. 105 prepared and presented a pitch, while “We learned about a lot of inventions as well. E-mail: [email protected] also creating a model of their invention. watching other people’s pitches and we As for Lion, he said the completion During their “Shark Tank” pitches, learned a lot about investing in a prod- of the project was crucial because it SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION: the students explained how the technol- uct – how to prepare a pitch, figure out demonstrates Jerusalem’s leadership Phone: (203) 321-1373 ogy worked, who their likely consumers a fair price and what percentage of the in accessibility, for literally “paving E-mail: [email protected] would be, the costs to develop and company to give away,” said sixth-grader the way for ancient cities around the expand the products, as well as their Lyla Dynner. world.” JUNE-JULY-AUGUST 2019 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 19 Summer Camp Serves as a Bridge Between Young Israelis and Diaspora Jewry By Rachel Moore At right: Jewish Agency to our community. In particular, the (JNS) – Kibbutz Shfayim is simply Israeli Emissaries in training presence of Israeli shlichim is essential gorgeous. With palm trees and Hebrew at Kibbutz Shfayim. The to the mission of American Jewish signs everywhere, it doesn’t have the Jewish Agency for Israel camps in having a profound impact feel of an American summer camp. hosts and facilitates several on young Jewish people by nurturing a Yet somehow, with enough American training events annually strong personal connection to Israel in camp staff, small bunk-like guest houses throughout March and the next generation of Jewish leaders.” and goofy ice-breaker games being con- April for the 1,400 young The participants mostly come to ducted in circles all over the lawn, it’s adults who will leave in June the program via word of mouth from actually quite easy to feel transported. for the United States to work alumni all over the country. They come Throw in a performance by Rick Recht in Jewish summer camps as primarily to “have fun and meet people.” teaching American-accented Hebrew part of the Camp Shlichim In a room of Israelis from all parts words in song on a stage, and it really cultural exchange program. of the country and exhibiting a wide feels like you have been beamed over (Photo by Talia Garber) range of ages, who were jumping up to any one of the 206 American camps and down and clapping hands to a very that bring in Israelis to work as camp ing about how to identify educational of including Israelis on their staff. American version of “Hinei Ma Tov,” counselors through the “Camp Shli- opportunities, how to work with chil- Tomer Moked, Israeli assistant JAFI Chairman Isaac Herzog brought chim” program. dren, and how to bring one’s personal director of Tamarack Camp Maas in this point home: “You are going on this The Camp Shlichim program, run by story and Israel’s national story to the Michigan, said, “Israelis bring a spice adventure to give American campers a the Jewish Agency for Israel, facilitates camp experience. and a passion and an energy to camp. taste of Israel, as ambassadors of Israel, a mutually beneficial cultural exchange The seminar is also full of opportuni- They have a strong work ethic, and to give them a sense of what Israel is between Israeli and Diaspora Jews. ties for participants to get to know each camp benefits from their skills and like. But you are coming back as am- shlichim (“emissaries”) are Israeli young other and get excited about the sum- maturity post-army.” bassadors to Israel. To bring some of adults who travel to North America to mer. It is a project that demonstrates The Foundation for Jewish Camp has the unique vibrancy of the American work in Jewish summer camps. They inter-organizational cooperation in long been an advocate for the J-1 Camp Jewish experience back to Israel.” take part in camp life, sharing Jewish the Jewish world at its best, bringing Counselor and Summer Work Travel In the wake of this year’s General traditions, teaching about Israeli and together the Jewish Agency for Israel, program, which enable the shlichim Assembly theme, “Let’s Talk,” there Jewish culture, and serving as role Young Judaea, the Union for Reform cultural exchange to take place. Over are many efforts to find ways to bridge models for Jewish campers. American Judaism, the Ramah Camping Move- the past two years, the status of the J-1 the widening gap of culture and under- staff work together with their Israeli ment, Habonim Dror North America, Visa has been in question in the United standing between Israel and Diaspora counterparts. the Association of Independent Jewish States, and FJC has worked closely with Judaism. The shlichim program is one The Jewish Agency hosts and fa- Camps and the JCC Association of the American Camp Association to lob- of those initiatives. By working directly cilitates several such training events North America. by for the protection of the program. with young adults, it catches Israeli and throughout March and April for the The dedication of North American Jeremy J. Fingerman, CEO of the Americans at a time in their lives when 1,400 young adults who will leave in Jewish camp professionals to the shli- Foundation for Jewish Camp, said, they are often open to new ideas and June for the United States. Each four- chim program is demonstrated by the “International staff, and particularly cultures. It’s an investment in the next day-long training seminar consists of large number of American camp staff the Israeli shlichim, promote global generation of Israeli and Diaspora Jews ice-breakers, simulation of the “Amer- who fly to Israel specifically for these Jewish peoplehood. These team mem- in conversation together. ican camp experience,” introductions training days. American camp profes- bers make an impact on our campers The Jewish Agency for Israel and the to the national staff, hearing from JAFI sionals who attended were emphatic and counselors alike – broadening Israeli shaliach at the Stamford JCC leadership and camp directors, learn- about the tremendously positive impact horizons, sharing cultures and adding both receive funding from United Jewish new energy, languages and perspectives Federation. Securing Federal and State Security Grants Federal and state security dollars are These allocations of state and federal not just released, someone advocates funds came to be because of JNFA and on behalf. Jewish Federations of North JFACT’s collective advocacy. America has a Washington, DC, office On May 14, JFACT joined religious that acts as the voice and ears of all Fed- leaders and a group of bipartisan erations within the federal government. legislative leaders requesting $5 mil- Locally, United Jewish Federation is a lion for helping to secure houses of member of JFACT (see articles on pag- worship across Connecticut. Michael es 2 and 13). While JFACT lobbies on Bloom, executive director of JFACT, UJF’s and Jewish communities’ behalf spoke on UJF’s behalf, as well as all the in Hartford, it liaises and represents Federations in the state of Connecticut. Connecticut to the JFNA DC office. So, “A few weeks ago, this was just wishful what does UJF get for its membership thinking and now, thanks to Michael’s and how is that impacting the Jewish hard work, this has now turned into communities in Stamford, New Canaan major legislators going on record, in and Darien? front of lots of cameras, supporting Last year, Carmel Hebrew Academy $5 million for security for houses of received a federal grant for security worship; including Senate President and The Jewish High School (now Martin Looney and House Minority Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy) received Leader Themis Klarides.” said Peter a state grant for security. Just recently, Lilienthal, UJF’s JCRC chair. “JFACT the Stamford Jewish Community Cen- and JFNA’s DC office are here for us and ter received a state grant for security. make a difference in our institutions.“

Serve Continued from page 17 the situation in the country was and I much support from the others in her decided I wanted to change it,” she says. unit, as well as from battalion com- Not everyone is pleased at the idea mander Capt. Roni Avital and company of a devout Muslim woman serving in commander Lt. Gal Yosef. an Israeli infantry unit. She says that The corporal has plenty to say about the debate about haredi conscription people who look at her askance. “If I pales in comparison to what she has listened to everyone who wasn’t sup- experienced. N. has already served portive, I wouldn’t have made it this far. under one commander who acciden- I wouldn’t be dreaming of a career in tally separated her from her comrades the military. I think that Arabs need to during a training course because she think not only about what the country was wearing her hijab. That same com- can do for them, but also about what mander apologized after the incident, they can do for the country. but N. says even the apology did not “We need to take a look at ourselves, make up for the offense. because we live here, and if we want She says she has also been threatened our rights, we need to do something, by male Arab soldiers, who said they and one thing to do is go all the way would harm her if she didn’t leave the and contribute to the army. If we don’t army. They were removed from her fight together, Arabs and Jews, we won’t unit. But she says she has also received have a country,” she says. 20 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ JUNE-JULY-AUGUST 2019