The New Jewish Voice

A Gift For You, Courtesy of... March 2020 | Adar - Nissan 5780 United Jewish Federation Volume 22, Number 10 The New Jewish Voice A PUBLICATION OF UNITED JEWISH FEDERATION Women Gather for Annual Education Symposium (Courtesy of UJF) United Jewish Attendees will hear from Mois Nav- in 2017 when Mobileye was purchased by Federation’s Women’s Philanthropy on, a California native who was liv- leading chip manufacturer Intel for $15 will once again partner with UJA/JCC ing out the Zionist dream at a hi-tech billion. It was the largest hi-tech deal in Greenwich for the 2020 Women's Ed- start-up in Jerusalem when, in 2000, Israeli history. ucation Symposium. Local chairs are the "dot-com bubble" became the "dot- Participants can choose from two au- Nan Gordon and Toby Lazarus. The com crash," leaving him and hundreds thors in a breakout session. Julie Satow event will take place on Wednesday, of other talented engineers unemployed. is an award-winning journalist who has March 4, from 9:15 a.m. until noon at An old colleague suggested he check covered real estate in New York City for the YWCA Greenwich, located at 259 E. out a tiny startup operating out of a more than a decade. A regular contribu- Putnam Ave., Greenwich. Tickets cost house in Jerusalem. tor to the New York Times, her work has $60 in advance. Sponsorships are avail- That startup was Mobileye, an au- also appeared on National Public Radio, able at $136 with a choice of book avail- tomobile “vision system” that detects the New York Post, The Daily Beast and able for each sponsor. and warns drivers of potential hazards. elsewhere. “This new decade brings us new in- Bev Saltzman Lewyn As a founding member of the engineer- Her most recent book is “The Pla- spiration and exciting speakers,” shared ing team, he built the products that to- za: The Secret Life of America’s Most Gordon. “The wide array of interesting ipants. This is such a wonderful way for day dominate the autonomous vehicle authors will hopefully attract new partic- the two communities to come together.” (AV) market – a success that culminated CONTINUED ON PAGE 5 Come Hear Ruth Messinger Rabbi Avi Weiss to Speak at At Temple Beth El Agudath Sholom World Service for 18 years and current- BY MICHAEL FELDSTEIN ly the organization’s first global ambassa- dor, will be the featured speaker at Temple Rabbi Avi Weiss, the founding rabbi Beth El on Sunday, March 8, beginning at of the Hebrew Institute of Riverdale and 9:30 a.m.. Messinger will speak on the top- the founder of Yeshivat Chovevei Torah, ic of “From Service to Advocacy.” will be the scholar in residence at Con- AJWS is the leading Jewish organiza- gregation Agudath Sholom on Shabbat, tion working to fight poverty and pursue March 7. justice in the developing world. Rabbi Weiss will deliver the Shab- Prior to AJWS, Messinger served as bat morning sermon, speak at a com- Ruth Messinger a city council member in New York City munity luncheon following kiddush, and as Manhattan Borough President. A and share some final thoughts dur- Rabbi Avi Weiss (Courtesy of Temple Beth El) Ruth ing seudah shlishit, the third Shabbat Messinger, president of American Jewish CONTINUED ON PAGE 5 meal. CONTINUED ON PAGE 4

2 6 7 14-15 21-22 23 Candle Bits Women`s Purim PJ Teen Lighting & Pieces Passover Seder Library Voices PJ Library Takes A Jewish Food Journey (Courtesy of UJF) In February, United Jew- ish Federation’s PJ Library & PJ Our Way held a “Jewish Food Scavenger Hunt” at Whole Foods in Darien. Over 60 people gathered in the store’s café to do crafts, hear a story and hunt around the store in search of a variety of “Jewish foods” including challah, lox, matzah and bagels. Everyone who completed the hunt got a prize. (see page 22) Guest reader Robin Fischel reads the PJ Library story The Bloom and Tolkin families enjoy a “Jewish Food “Something From Nothing” to the children. Scavenger Hunt” at Whole Foods in Darien. 2 The New Jewish Voice From UJF’s Chief Executive Officer The Value of a Jewish Federation

BY DIANE SLOYER economic crises in Argen- require increased care as they age. We You can make sure one less Jewish I ask people for mon- tina and Venezuela; nat- must continue to give Holocaust survi- child goes hungry in the Former Sovi- ey, not for myself, but for ural disasters in Puerto vors the dignity they deserve. We’ll al- et Union those in need. Some peo- Rico, the Philippines and ways be here — with social programs, You can make sure one less Holo- ple say, “I could never ask in our own backyard with meals, housing and more. Whether in caust survivor lacks homecare and med- people for money,” but Hurricane Sandy. From Connecticut, Israel or the former Sovi- icines. when you are asking one hurricanes to rockets, et Union, we’ll offer critical care and com- You can make sure one less child Jew to help another Jew from flooding to earth- panionship as long as it’s needed. And we’ll misses out on PJ library books or a they will most likely nev- quakes, the Jewish Federa- make sure their stories are never forgotten. Birthright trip. er meet, it becomes an tion raises the dollars nec- No one else will feed tens of thousands You can make sure one less person is awe-inspiring task driv- essary to help communi- of Holocaust survivors this morning. Only excluded by the Jewish community en by the Jewish values of ties hit by devastation and Jewish Federation. Did you know Schoke So, stand up for what you believe in. chesed (loving kindness), Diane Sloyer, UJF CEO. despair. Jewish Family Service was just awarded a Get involved, volunteer, be a donor and charity (tzedakah), and ti- We also gather our Jew- second $50,000 grant from Jewish Fed- make a lasting impact on the lives of kun olam (repairing the world). ish community together during times erations of North America, our nation- those in need. Help build and strength- I hear many objections; it comes with when our voices must be heard. From al organization, to fund a program called en our Jewish community. And save the the job! supporting Israel during Operation Anachnu, focused on socialization of sur- world. One person at a time. “I only give to charities I can see.” Protective Edge, to standing up to an- vivors? “I only give to charities with low ti-Semitism on our high school and col- No one else will plan the rescue, the re- CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES overhead.” lege campuses, to standing in solidari- lief, the lobbying for funds, the advocacy, “I only give directly and not to um- ty when three Israeli teenagers were kid- the security campaigns. Only Jewish Fed- February 28...... 5:25 pm brella organizations...” napped by terrorists, we rally, we come eration. The Stamford JCC has received March 6...... 5:33 pm But no one else will step up when together, we stand strong. a security grant, thanks to the ef- March 13...... 6:41 pm the emergency happens tomorrow. Only We will never abandon and nev- forts of Jewish Federations Association March 20...... 6:49 pm Jewish Federation. er forget the Holocaust survivors. Be- of CT (JFACT). March 27...... 6:56 pm Federations have always been there cause Holocaust survivors suffered un- You have the power to change the for emergencies around the globe: The imaginable horrors in their youth, they equation. Agudath Sholom Plans Infertility and Pregnancy Loss Program BY MICHAEL Around Infertility and munity. The panel will feature Dr. Ila- with infertility and pregnancy loss," FELDSTEIN Pregnancy Loss,” and na Ressler, reproductive endocrinolo- said Block. Abbie Sophia from will be presented by gist at RMA of Connecticut and med- Both men and women are invited The Layers Project will the Steinmetz/Bern- ical advisor at Yesh Tikva; Reva Ju- to attend the program, which will al- be the featured speaker stein/Alexander Yoet- das, founder and director of Necha- low attendees to support family and at a program that will zet Initiative of Con- ma Comfort; and Dr. Danielle Thau, friends experiencing these issues, discuss infertility and gregation Agudath licensed clinical psychologist with a gain practical tools for handling the pregnancy loss, to be Sholom. specialty in medical crisis therapy. subject, and dispel commonly held held on Wednesday Following the main "Infertility and pregnancy loss is a myths. evening, March 18, speaker, there will be subject that is usually not discussed, Co-sponsors for the program at Congregation Agu- a panel discussion but has a major emotional and psy- are Chabad of Stamford, Congrega- dath Sholom at 8 p.m. moderated by Dena chological impact on individuals tion Agudath Sholom, Temple Beth- She will share her per- Block, Yoetzet Halacha who are dealing with these issues. El, Temple Sinai, Yesh Tikva and the Dena Block, Yoetzet Halacha. sonal experiences. ( a woman certified to We hope that by opening the conver- Young Israel of Stamford. The program is ti- serve as an advisor for sation, we will be able to better sup- The program is free and open to tled “Opening the Conversation: women with questions regarding Jew- port those in our community who the entire community. Registration Creating a Supportive Community ish family laws) for the Stamford com- are experiencing the pain associated for the program begins at 7:30 p.m.

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MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 COMMUNITY NEWS The New Jewish Voice 3 ‘An Evening With Schoke JFS’ Will Recognize Dedicated Community Members

(Courtesy of Schoke JFS) Elayne and James Schoke Jewish Family Service will hold its annual gala on Sunday, April 26, at 5:30 p.m. at the Ital- ian Center of Stamford, 1620 Newfield Avenue. The gala will honor the service of community leaders with a special celebration of the agency’s work across Fairfield County. The evening will be hosted by Master of Ceremonies Alan Kalter of Stamford, and is co-chaired by Liz Kitay and Ronnie Sichel. Sandy Speter will chair the auction. Schoke JFS will award the 41st Annual Mitz- vah Awards to Michael Alexander and the Jewish Sportsmens League (Bruce Blasnik, Gary Bloom, 2020 Honorees (l-r) David Brand, Michael Henry Bubel, David S. Cohen, Marty Donner, Bob Alexander and Risa Goldblum. Dorf, Bill Gilbert, Paul Gordon, Ed Kweskin, David (Credit: Alison Wachstein Photography) Lewis, Carl Rosen, Paul Sabbah, David Swerdloff). The 14th Annual Young Leadership Award will be she attended Bi-Cultural Day School and Stam- given to David Brand. Risa Goldblum will receive ford High School. Goldblum’s volunteer work the 2nd Annual Volunteer of the Year Award. with Schoke JFS began in 2013, when she helped Michael Alexander has had a successful 35- deliver Passover meal bags. Since then she has Jewish Sportsmens League: Standing (l-r):Marty Donner, Paul Gordon, Carl Rosen, year career in financial services. His connection to served as a co-chair of the Passover food drive Henry Bubel, Ed Kweskin, Bob Dorf, David Lewis, David Swerdloff. Front Row: (l-r) Schoke JFS began in 2009 when he joined the board and distribution program. Goldblum also organ- Bruce Blasnik, Bill Gilbert, Paul Sabbah, Gary Bloom. David S. Cohen is not pictured. as treasurer; he then served as president from 2012 izes the Rosh Hashana food drive and delivery (Credit: Jewish Sportsmens League) – 2015 and was immediate past president from 2015 program, co-chaired the coat drive for two years, – 2017. He sponsors Schoke JFS’ annual shredding leads the agency's annual Thanksgiving meal ly Kosher Food Pantry, and often brings her fam- evening-with-schoke-jfs/ to reserve your tick- event, which benefits the agency’s case management delivery program and assists with the agency's ily along to help. ets. and food pantry clients. Anachnu program for Holocaust survivors. She General tickets include dinner and dessert Please contact Lisa Rich at 203-921-4161 or The Jewish Sportsmens League is composed of is also a regular volunteer in the Freedberg Fami- for $180. Please visit https://www.ctjfs.org/an- [email protected] to place a journal ad by April 6. board members, officers and past presidents of Jew- ish and non-Jewish organizations across Stamford. Four members of the Jewish Sportsmens League DEADLINE FOR ARTICLES currently serve on the board of directors of Schoke The deadlines for the next issues of JFS, three of whom have served on the executive committee. The Jewish Sportsmens League, found- The New Jewish Voice are: ed over 20 years ago, has donated over $120,000 to April/Pesach Edition: March 9 Jewish and other causes in Stamford. David Brand has lived in Stamford since 2012, May Edition: March 30 and is a lawyer who practiced commercial litiga- Send New Jewish Voice article tion in New York City for 10 years before joining his family’s real estate business. submissions to Sandy Golove at Brand began his volunteer efforts with Schoke [email protected] marked “Stamford JFS in 2013, first at CAS’s annual High Holi- *7TFEBUJPO Voice” in the subject line. day Food Drive to benefit the Schoke JFS Food GPSIJHIGFBS Pantry. He also worked with the Camp Scholar- Expect an acknowledgement; ship Committee that annually distributes over TQFDJBMOFFET $40,000 in funds so children in Fairfield County please re-send if you do not DIJMESFO can attend Jewish day or sleepaway camps. receive one. Risa Goldblum grew up in Stamford, where

Now is the me to make sure that your Passover Greeng is in uded in the New Jewish Voice!

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MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 4 The New Jewish Voice COMMUNITY NEWS Raise Your Glass at Temple Sinai Annual Gala (Courtesy of Temple Sinai) This year’s he helped to establish the Temple Si- Temple Sinai gala, Raise Your Glass, nai Legacy Fund. He graduated from will be held at Temple Sinai on Satur- Hunter College and after holding sev- day, April 18, and will honor Lesley eral positions in corporations, he and Dennis Gehr, along with Rising started his own firm where he served Star Michelle Poris. as president and owner until 1999. The evening will include cocktails Lesley graduated from Pace Univer- and dinner, as well as silent and live sity and received her Master’s Degree auctions. The annual gala raises funds in Social Work from Columbia Univer- to support spiritual, educational and sity. She is a Certified Advanced Mas- social programming for Temple Sinai ter Gardener and is active in the Tem- and the community at large. ple’s Arts and Aesthetics committee Lesley and Dennis have been Tem- and Sisterhood. She also enjoys partic- ple Sinai members for over 40 years. ipating in the New Covenant House of They are actively involved in Temple Si- Hospitality Christmas dinner and is an nai Torah Study groups and play an im- active participant in the synagogue’s Michelle Poris portant role in the temple community. Friday and Saturday morning Torah Dennis has been a board mem- study group. ber and has chaired both the person- Michelle Poris serves as a trustee Temple Sinai and the greater Stamford Lesley and Dennis Gehr on the Temple Sinai Board. In addi- Jewish community. Both Dennis and tion, she is chair of the religious school Lesley have demonstrated their leader- The New Jewish Voice nel and leadership committees. He has committee, a co-chair of the b’nai mitz- ship by generously volunteering their held a number of other task force and vah committee and is an integral mem- time and energy toward the betterment “The New Jewish Voice” (USPS #184) is published committee positions and was VP of ad- ber of the educator search committee. of our congregation and community. It monthly by the United Jewish Federation Inc., 1035 ministration from 2009-2010. He was Michelle is also involved in the is also exciting to honor Michelle Poris Newfield Ave., Stamford, CT 06905-2521. a participant in the adult confirma- Stamford community as the PTO treas- as the Rising Star. Michelle’s commit- tion class, a member of “brotherhood” urer at Toquam Magnet School and she ment and energy toward the mission of www.ujf.org for updates and donations and an active participant in the syn- actively supports her family’s partici- Temple Sinai serves as an inspiration agogue’s Friday and Saturday morn- pation in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts. to our future leaders,” said Temple Si- David Gordon...... President Diane Sloyer...... CEO ing Torah study groups. Dennis is the She and her husband Lee live in Stam- nai President Alan Cohen. “Challah Baker” for all temple Shabbat ford with their two boys, Jordan and To reserve seats for the gala, or Advisory Committee dinners. Alex. to place a tribute ad in honor of the Meryl Gordon...... Chair Dennis is currently treasurer of “We are delighted to have the op- Gehrs or Poris, or for more informa- Meryl Japha, Nancy Schulman, Ellen Weber OCNY, the affiliated foundation to portunity to honor and celebrate Den- tion about the gala, contact Shelly Wel- Jewish Link Media Group SUNY College of Optometry and is nis and Lesley Gehr for the tremen- feld at Temple Sinai at 203-322-1649 or The Jewish Link Media Group edits and publishes a past JCC board member. In 2012, dous contributions they have made to [email protected]. The New Jewish Voice. Jill Kirsch...... Editor Moshe Kinderlehrer...... Publisher/Advertising Representative Adam Negnewitzky...... Design & Layout Gila Negnewitzky...... Bookkeeper Enjoy ‘The Art of Inclusion’ at Agudath Sholom Risa Lefkowitz...... Advertising Representative (Courtesy of Friendship Circle) The Come to this community-wide aware- Entertainment for children ages 2-9 will Opinions Friendship Circle and Congregation Agu- ness event to learn how you can foster inclu- be provided. The views expressed in editorials and opinion dath Sholom Men’s Club will present “The sion of people with different abilities in all The event chairs are Mihal Ariyeh, Robin pieces are those of each author and not necessarily the views of the United Jewish Federation. Art of Inclusion” with Benji Schussheim on aspects of your life. Hear from Benji Schuss- Fischel, Mouchka Heller, Shira Nerenberg, Sunday, March 22, from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at heim, who embraces his stutter with joy and Miriam Sperber and Alisa Weisser. Letters Congregation Agudath Sholom, during its positivity. His message teaches us to turn An RSVP to FriendshipCT.com/Event The New Jewish Voice welcomes letters on subjects Passover Fair. our challenges into opportunities. will be appreciated. of interest to the Jewish community. All letters must be signed and include a phone number. The editor may withhold the name upon request.

Kashruth Agudath Sholom to Host Rabbi Avi Weiss We are not responsible for the Kashruth of any advertiser’s product or establishment. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 Rabbi Weiss is the founding president of On Shabbat morning, Rabbi Weiss will HOW TO REACH THE EDITOR: Yeshivat Chovevei Torah, the modern and deliver the sermon in the main sanctu- Mail: Sandy Golove The weekend will be focused on the re- Open Orthodox rabbinical school in River- ary on “Am I My Brother's’ Keeper? Re- 1035 Newfield Ave. - Suite 200 Stamford, CT 06905-2521 cent 75th anniversary of the liberation of dale, NY. He is also the founding rabbi and flections on Rising Anti-Semitism and E-mail: [email protected] Auschwitz, rising anti-Semitism, and les- rabbi in residence of the Hebrew Institute the 75th Anniversary of the Liberation of Phone: (203) 912-9945 sons from the movement to free Soviet Jews, of Riverdale, a congregation of 850 families. Auschwitz.” He will speak at a communi- for which Rabbi Weiss was a champion. His Most recently, he founded Yeshivat Maharat, ty-wide luncheon after services on “Cop- Send article submissions via e-mail to Sandy Golove at [email protected] presentations will all emerge from his person- a school ordaining women to become Jewish ing with Challenges and Personal Resil- marked “Stamford Voice” in the subject al experiences and lifetime commitment to spiritual leaders. ience: Fate and Destiny in Our Lives.” line. Expect an acknowledgement; spiritual activism. Rabbi Weiss was named one of the 50 Rabbi Weiss (in conversation with Rabbi please re-send if you do not receive one. “We are thrilled to be able to host Rabbi most influential rabbis in America by News- Cohen) will give his final talk after min- HOW TO REACH THE Weiss for an entire weekend devoted to activ- week magazine for five consecutive years. He cha, afternoon services, at seudah shlishit, ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: ism in the Jewish community,” said Rabbi Co- is the author of several books, among them on “The Nation of Israel as Family and the MOSHE KINDERLEHRER hen, senior rabbi at Congregation Agudath "Spiritual Activism: A Jewish Guide to Lead- Roots, Relevance and Resonance of an In- Phone: 201-366-9102 Sholom. “We are looking forward to hearing ership and Repairing the World." Rabbi Weiss clusive Orthodoxy.” E-mail: [email protected] what Rabbi Weiss has to say about his own ac- served as the national chairman of the Student The entire community is invited to attend SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION: tivities in this area, and learning what we can Struggle for Soviet Jewry, and is the national any or all of the presentations. To find out Phone: (203) 321-1373 also do to become more spiritually active in to- president of AMCHA – the Coalition for Jew- how you can reserve a place at the commu- E-mail: [email protected] day’s important causes.” ish Concerns. nity luncheon, please visit cas-stamford.org. MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 INTERNATIONALCOMMUNITY NEWS NEWS The New Jewish Voice 5

Women Gather for Annual Ed Symposium Famous Hotel.” “I am thrilled to in- Ruth Messinger to Speak at Temple Beth El CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 troduce Julie. My parents celebrated their 25th anniversary at the Plaza CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 sen wrote, “Our country can and my husband Alan and I were mar- tireless advocate and social do a lot better with migrants ried there. We have celebrated many change visionary, Messinger and asylum seekers.” His was family occasions at the hotel and I am mobilizes faith-based com- a simple, direct and unequiv- looking forward to reading the book munities throughout the US ocal response to what he and and hearing from Julie,” shared La- to promote human rights. the others observed on their zarus. She is also currently doing trip. Bev Saltzman Lewyn, author of international human rights Messinger will discuss the “On the Run in Nazi Berlin,” will work for AIDS Free World moral issues inherent in his speak at the second breakout session. and, in 2017, became the in- response. What is the mor- Saltzman Lewyn is the former coor- augural JTS Finkelstein Insti- al obligation for change that dinator of news research for CNN’s tute Social Justice Fellow. Eisen feels so strongly about? National Desk. She is the co-found- Messinger will discuss is- What is our responsibility er of the 2,000-women strong Jew- sues including the theoreti- to one another … to other ish Women’s Connection/JWC At- cal response of Arnold Eis- Jews … to people of different lanta (a Jewish Women's Renaissance en, chancellor and president faiths? What does advoca- Project-JWRP- “Birthright for Moms” of faculties and professor of cy look like in a synagogue? Julie Satow partner organization) and is presently Jewish thought at the Jewish What happens when advoca- writing “Super Parenting to the Res- Theological Seminary, when cy and politics collide? cue: Get Your Kids To Listen Cooper- asked why he was going to Join Temple Beth El as ate and DO!” the border last November Messinger seeks answers to Elizabeth Weitzman will close the with about 20 Jewish clergy. these and other questions on morning with attendees joining to- She will discuss the implica- Sunday morning, March 8. gether. She is a journalist and film tions of the group’s intention The program is spon- critic, and the author of more than of witnessing firsthand how sored by the Temple Beth El two dozen books for children and current US immigration pol- Sisterhood and Men’s Club. young adults. She currently covers icy is affecting the individu- Breakfast will be served. movies for The Wrap and was a critic for als seeking entry to America, There is no charge. the New York Daily News for 15 years. In and share that the answer Ei- Temple Beth El is locat- 2015, she was named one of the top critics sen wanted to give was: “Be- ed at 350 Roxbury Road in in New York by the Hollywood Reporter. cause I am a Jew.” Stamford. To register please visit www.ujf.org or call After making the trip Ei- Diane Sloyer at (203) 321-1373 ext. 105.

Mois Navon Elizabeth Weitzman Gan Yeladim Enjoys Activities At Barnes & Noble (Courtesy of Chabad of Stamford) Chabad of Stamford’s Gan Yeladim Early Childhood Center families were entertained with a special story time and arts and crafts activities at Barnes & Noble.

MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 6 The New Jewish Voice INTERNATIONALCOMMUNITY NEWS NEWS Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy Dinner Has Record-Breaking Turnout (Courtesy of BCHA) A sold-out crowd of Blumenthal and Stamford Mayor David Mar- close to 500 guests filled the ballroom of the tin. The honorees included Elise and Steven Hilton Stamford Hotel this past January, to Cohen, Alice and Jason Janush, Tina and Yossi honor several prominent leaders of the Fair- Notik, Laura Kassen, and David Giver. field County Jewish community at the Bi-Cul- The Morton G. Scheraga President’s Award tural Hebrew Academy Celebration Dinner. was presented to BCHA board member Ma- According to organizers, the gala evening ria Reicin for her dedication and commitment raised more than $1 million, and was attended to the school and the Fairfield County Jewish by dignitaries, including U.S. Senator Richard community.

Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy 2020 Celebration Dinner Chairs Trevor and Taly Farber (left) and Amanda and Jasper Lewit.

U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal (center) chats at the BCHA Celebration Dinner with (l to r) Len and Linda Russ and their daughter Dana Russ and her fiancee Daniel Rose. Chabad of Stamford Holds

Honorees at the BCHA Celebration Dinner included (front row, l-r) Head of School Annual Gala Dinner Jaqueline Herman; honorees Alice Janush, Laura Kassen, Elise Cohen and Tina Notik; (Courtesy of Chabad of Stamford) “The ceremony, a lavish sit-down meal and des- (back row, l-r) BCHA President David Pitkoff; honorees Jason Janush, David Giver, Gala dinner was an opportunity to come to- sert buffet and a resoundingly successful si- Steven Cohen and Yossi Notik. gether as the Chabad family and communi- lent auction and paddle raise topped off by en- ty," said Leah Shemtov of this year’s event. tertainment by illusionist, Ilan Smith. Chabad The evening was dedicated to “kindness, would like to wish their honorees and volun- caring and community’’, all of which were in teers a huge “yasher koach” for their generosity Bits and Pieces abundance. The evening included an awards and commitment to what Chabad stands for. BY SANDY GOLOVE the engagement of To submit information to Bits and Pieces: their daughter, Tali call (203)-912-9945 or email [email protected]. Trencher to Jesse Salver. MAZEL TOV TO GROWING FAMILIES: Shelly Welfeld Pam Ehrenkranz and Matt Greenberg on on the marriage of the birth of a granddaughter. her daughter, Kay- Shira and Reuven Fischer on the birth of la Sodaro to Ezra a daughter. Weiser. Ben and Cara Friedlander on the birth of a son, Jesse Friendlander; and to grandparents to MAZEL TOV TO B’NAI MITZVAH: Janie and Ed Friedlander. Henry Lapin, son of Jamie Boris Lapin Shery Hertzberg on the birth of a grand- and Paul Lapin. Leah and Rabbi Moshe Shemtov and Chabad Gala Dinner honorees. daughter. Cameron Rubin, son of Haley and Darryl Keren and David Jonas on the birth of a Rubin. daughter, Anael Dafna Jonas; and to grandpar- Sophie Sigman, daughter of Rebecca and ents Debbie and Neil Gershon. Eric Sigman. Shoshana and Doniel Levie on the birth of a son; and to grandmother Diane Indyk. WE MOURN THE LOSS OF: Fran Schechter on the birth of her grand- Mel Aminoff: husband of Ruth and father son, Howard Alfred Schechter. of Leeba, Sarah and Noam Aminoff Sandy Burn: mother of Lisa Barocas. MAZEL TOV ON ENGAGEMENTS/WED- Abraham (Roger) Cohen: father of Isaac DINGS: Cohen. Martha Kramer and John Zimmerman Patricia Epstein: wife of Simon Epstein. on the engagement of their daughter, Sara Marcia Frankel: mother of Michal Frankel Zimmerman to David Stern. Leonard Gold: father of Richard, David Dallice and Ian Lazarus on the engage- and Deborah Gold. ment of their daughter Kailyn Lazarus to Dion Hoff: father of Robert Hoff. Noah Weintraub. Richard Isaac: father of Rachel Hager. (l-r) Ilan Smith, Craig Price, Aron Davidson, Oren Klein, Eric Israel, Lance Beder, John Stacey and Rabbi Shimmy Trencher on Erwin Riven: husband of Carol Riven. Cristiano, Mark Kaplan. (Credit: Clive and Raema Salmon Photography) MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 INTERNATIONALCOMMUNITY NEWS NEWS The New Jewish Voice 7 Journalist Jeff Goldman Is Coming to Stamford (Courtesy of UJF JCRC) United Jewish eled to Israel and other countries in the re- on a wide range of events which he had wit- Federation’s Jewish Community Relations gion multiple times with several presidents, nessed overseas, including the breakup of the Council will host Jeff Goldman, retired and has traveled the globe with multiple sec- former Soviet Union, historic elections in television journalist for CBS News, on retaries of state, including Hillary Clinton, eastern Europe and the Baltic States, and the March 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the Stamford JCC. Condoleeza Rice and General Colin Powell. Mandela election in South Africa. He was the As a reporter and producer for over 40 years, After the historic White House hand- first to interview Mikhail Gorbachev after his Goldman covered the White House during shake between Israeli Prime Minister meeting with Ronald Reagan in 1985. the tenures of six US presidents, from the Yitzhak Rabin and PLO Chairman Yass- At CBS News, Goldman also covered end of the Reagan Administration to the be- er Arafat, Goldman was immediately dis- every domestic presidential election ginning of the Trump presidency. patched to the region. He produced exclu- since 1996. He has been dispatched to “We are privileged to welcome such an sive interviews with key regional leaders to cover breaking news stories around the insider to our community,” shared JCRC look at the future of the Israeli-PLO conflict. globe, including the horrific Haitian chair Peter Lilienthal. “With a presidential Those interviews were with Syrian President earthquake in 2010, where over 200,000 election upon us, Jeff’s presentation comes Hafez Al Assad in Damascus, Egyptian Pres- people were killed. Goldman was one of at an interesting time.” ident Hosni Mubarak in Egypt, King Hussein the first journalists on the scene with the Goldman has been an eyewitness to in Amman Jordan, and then-Israeli President American search and rescue teams that many major historical events, including six Shimon Peres in Jerusalem. In addition, he were dispatched within hours. wars and military conflicts. He covered both covered the Balkan War and troop interven- Goldman’s lecture will be free and Gulf Wars, and lived in Kuwait and Saudi tions in Somalia, Haiti and Iraq. open to the public. Registration appre- Arabia for many months during both mili- At the PBS NewsHour, Goldman pro- ciated at ujf.org/goldman. The Stamford Jeff Goldman tary interventions. Goldman has also trav- duced numerous long form documentaries JCC is located at 1035 Newfield Avenue.

'Miriam's Table' Women's Passover Seder Planned the idea of women’s gatherings was a grounds will be welcomed to experi- success,” Styles explained. “We want- ence “who women have been in our ed to do something experiential, history, both real and legendary.” ‘vibey.’ The tables will face the sanc- “The food will be kosher, and the tuary, where the lights of the 12 tribes evening will be in the format of a sed- around the Ark will shine, along with er, with moderations, so people feel others, creating a spiritual atmos- they are still coming to a seder, but p h e re .” with nontraditional elements,” she This year’s seder will be a bit more continued. A Mediterranean-style informal as well. Rather than round dinner will be served. tables set in a traditional manner, A portion of the proceeds from the there will be rectangular tables in a seder will go to The Jewish Women’s Bedouin-style tent, giving attendees Archive. United Jewish Federation the opportunity to “gather together,” and Federation’s Women’s Philanthro- Styles continued. py will be sponsors of the event. There will be eight women lead- The cost to attend is $36/adult and ing the seder, which will be a “sto- $18/child before March 1. For more rytelling journey acknowledging the information, to become a sponsor or Beth Styles (Credit: Facebook) contributions of generations of wom- Lisa Rosenstein to register, visit https://chasinglight- en who have come before us in order (Credit: Chasinglightspeakers.com) events.com/miriams-table/ or https:// for women to have a voice,” she add- events.idonate.com/miriams-table. BY JILL KIRSCH ed. “This is true especially in the Pass- Federation or other Jewish groups, Temple Beth El is located at 350 over story, where Miriam had such a or non-Jews.” Women from all back- Roxbury Road in Stamford. In the spirit of the late Debbie significant role. She was a hero who Friedman, z”l, creator of the women’s was in the ‘fine print.’” It's Time to Register For a Summer of Memorable Experiences! seder, musical artist Beth Styles, to- Miriam’s Table will include “tradi- gether with Lisa Rosenstein of Chas- tional readings, contemporary read- Mishkan Israel has been providing children with ing Light Women Speakers, will offer a ings, and people can tell uplifting per- memorable summer experiences for over four decades! women’s Passover seder, “Miriam’s Ta- sonal stories,” Styles remarked. At- ble,” to be held on Thursday, March 26, tendees can sponsor a table, a candle, Conveniently located in Stamford, CT, Mishkan Israel boasts at 6 p.m. at Temple Beth El. Women of a wine cup or a page in the Haggadah, registration of boys and girls from throughout Fairfield and all denominations and faiths are invit- in the merit of a woman in their lives. Westchester Counties. ed, and encouraged to bring their fe- The seder’s journey will be experi- Camp is in session 5 days each week from 9am to 4pm, and male family members. The seder will enced through music. “As a compos- provides a diverse schedule of field trips, athletics, swimming, and be a tribute to women throughout the er, I tried to figure out how to include computer programs that active kids love. Personal growth and generations. Debbie Friedman’s music into my creativity are encouraged through songs, discussion groups, arts & Miriam’s Table follows the success- program,” Styles said. To honor Fried- crafts, and dramatics. ful women’s seder held at the syna- man’s impact, her sister Cheryl will be The vivacious spirit of joy and pride is Mishkan Israel's most gogue for the past four years. This in attendance. prominent feature! year’s incarnation, while building on Rosenstein noted, “We are excited Contact us to learn more & register! the seder’s past success, is expected to to include women who had joined the (203) 268-0740 • [email protected] have a completely different feel. Beth El seder, as well as broaden our “This is a different program, but reach to include women involved with www.MishkanIsrael.com MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 United Jewish Federation is pleased to be participating in the Northeast Jewish Engagement Summit. To encourage community participation, UJF will offer an $18 subsidy to the first 20 participants. Please contact Diane Sloyer for details [email protected]. Northeast Sunday, March 22, 2020 • 12 pm – 5:30 pm Held at: Temple Israel 14 Coleytown Road, Westport, CT

with support from:

MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 INTERNATIONALCOMMUNITY NEWS NEWS The New Jewish Voice 9 UJF and UJA Donors Gather for Major Gifts Event Siegel is also the author of the much-antic- ipated book, “Troubled Water: What's Wrong with What We Drink.” The book addresses the widespread contamination of America’s drink- ing water, and what must be done to improve it. Siegel has spoken about water issues before hundreds of audiences on four conti- nents, and in more than 60 US cities. He has appeared in Congress, the United Nations, the World Bank, Google’s headquarters and many other venues, as well as dozens of universities, including Harvard, Yale and Princeton. Siegel’s views are regularly featured on TV, radio and in print. (l-r) Ed Smith, UJF CEO Diane Sloyer, UJF President David Gordon, Schoke JFS President Siegel has been recognized for his thought Beverly Stein, and Eleanor Lowenthal. leadership and advocacy on water scarcity and quality concerns. He is a senior fellow at Harvey and Helene Kaminski catch up with the University of Wisconsin’s Center for Wa- Harvey's childhood friend, Seth M. Siegel. ter Policy and his commentary has appeared in many leading publications, including The (Courtesy of UJF) In late January, donors New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and from United Jewish Federation and UJA-JCC The Washington Post. of Greenwich gathered for the annual major Siegel’s passionate connection to water be- gifts event, this year held at the Bruce Muse- gan when he wanted to find something pos- um. Guests were treated to a serious yet en- itive to talk about with regard to Israel that tertaining presentation by Seth M. Siegel, au- would impact the world. He continues to be a thor of the 2015 New York Times bestseller, passionate supporter of Israel and is very in- “Let There Be Water: Israel's Solution for a volved in AIPAC. He also sits on the Hillel Water-Starved World.” The book is now avail- board at Cornell University, where he studied. able in 15 foreign language editions and more Ellen Weber, campaign chair and past Mark Silver, Sherry Steiner, Beverly Stein, Edith Samers and Diane Sloyer. than 50 countries. It has won praise from president of UJF, closed the evening by shar- Tony Blair, Michael Bloomberg, Shimon Pe- ing the impact of Federation and reminding res and Robert F. Kennedy, among other glob- the donors of the important work their philan- al figures. thropy supports.

Ellen and Richard Weber with Sherry Steiner.

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MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 10 The New Jewish Voice INTERNATIONALCOMMUNITY NEWS NEWS Voices of Hope, Jewish Federation Congregation Agudath Sholom Association of Connecticut and The United Jewish Federation of To Host Jonathan S. Tobin of JNS Greater Stamford, scene, foreign policy, the US-Israel relationship, New Canaan and Darien Middle East diplomacy and the Jewish world. Before becoming the editor in chief of JNS, invite you to the an international wire service, Tobin was the executive editor, the senior online editor and chief political blogger for the Commentary magazine. Earlier in his career, he was the editor in chief of the Jewish Exponent in Philadelphia and, before that, the editor of the Connecticut Jewish Ledg- er. His writing has also appeared in many other publications including the Jerusalem Post, where Jonathan Tobin he wrote the “View From America” column for many years. (Courtesy of Congregation Agudath Sholom) The “It is our honor to welcome Jonathan Tobin Agudath Sholom Men’s Club and Agudath Women to Agudath Sholom. From his days in West Hart- invite the entire community to attend a lecture, ford, where I served as rabbi, he has always main- “The BDS Threat to American Jewry: Anti-Zi- tained a sterling reputation, possesses a voice of onism and the New Anti-Semitism,” by Jona- wisdom, deep support for shared American and than S. Tobin, editor in chief, Jewish News Syn- Israel values and an eloquence and erudition in dicate/JNS.org, on March 22 at 3 p.m. in the his writings and presentations,” said Rabbi Dan- Congregation Agudath Sholom chapel. iel Cohen, senior rabbi of Congregation Agudath The lecture will take place during the high- Sholom. ly popular annual CAS annual Passover/Mitz- Tobin has won more than 50 awards for his vah Fair. writing, including being named top columnist Tobin is one of the most significant con- for Jewish publications eight times. He appears temporary political commentators. He is a reg- regularly on television commenting on politics in ular columnist for Haaretz, Israel Hayom, the the United States and Israel, foreign policy and New York Jewish Week, the Algemeiner, the Jewish affairs. Federalist and the New York Post, and is a con- Tobin was born in New York City, attend- tributing writer for National Review. He is also ed local schools and studied history at Colum- writing for other publications, such as the Wash- bia University. ington Examiner and Commentary magazine. The lecture is free and open to the entire In his writing he covers the American political community. Senate Chambers, Connecticut State Capitol, 210 Capitol Ave., Hartford Book & Author Conversations Continue at The J (Courtesy of JCC) Professor Marc Doll- inger, Ph.D., historian and author of the controversial book “Black Power, Jewish Politics: Reinventing The Alliance in the 1960s,” will be featured in the next “Book and Author Conversations” session at the Kosher dietary laws observed Stamford Jewish Community Center, 1035 Newfield Avenue, at 7:30 p.m. on Co-sponsored by Voices of Hope and the Jewish Federations of: Thursday, March 5. Dollinger’s book, now in its third Marc Dollinger Eastern Connecticut, Greater Hartford, New Haven, Greenwich, printing, challenges the accepted wisdom Federation for Jewish Philanthropy of Upper Fairfield County, on understanding Jewish participation in lead to deeper learning. If people under- Western CT, and in coordination with the Anti-Defamation the civil rights movement. His challeng- stand what actually happened over the League, the State of Connecticut and the United States es are based on both research and per- last 50 or 60 years, they’ll be better in- Holocaust Memorial Council. sonal experience, with a history of activ- formed to understand the dynamics of ism in race relations and anti-Semitism. today. He was named “courageous leader of the While the book undermines widely year” in 2015 by the local Jewish Com- held beliefs about the black-Jewish alli- munity Federation for his work against ance, it also offers hope of a new political campus anti-Semitism at San Francisco consensus based on identity politics, that State University, where he holds the Rich- draws blacks and Jews together and can ard and Rhonda Goldman Chair in Jew- alter the course of American liberalism. ish Studies and Social Responsibility. The JCC is an educational and recre- In his book, Dollinger argues that ational center, offering exceptional pro- there are three assumptions advanced by grams, classes and special events designed Jews for why they involve themselves in to enrich mind, body and spirit. “Book and the struggle for racial equality, and how Author Conversations” sessions will be held all three are false. The real story is much periodically and announced in advance. more complicated, Dollinger says, and For information, please email Connie while it complicates the narrative, it can Cirillo Freeman at [email protected]. MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 INTERNATIONALCOMMUNITY NEWS NEWS The New Jewish Voice 11 United Jewish Federation Officially Carmel Academy to Integrate Launches Harold Grinspoon Life Into The Leffell School

(Courtesy of The Leffell School) After 22 years as a neurship programs, experiential Jewish life (including a And Legacy Program vibrant, independent Jewish day school in Greenwich, two-week trip to Israel in eighth grade and its capstone Connecticut, Carmel Academy has announced that it Lev v’Nefesh senior experience in Poland and Israel) and will be integrating many of its families and elements of strong college placement. its program into The Leffell School, a Jewish independ- Head of School Dr. Michael Kay said, “We have long ent school serving approximately 740 students on two admired the strong leadership and educational offerings campuses in Westchester County, effective the 2020- of Carmel Academy, whose mission and values are close- 2021 school year. Carmel Academy plans to wind down ly aligned with our own. The Leffell School is excited to its own independent operations at the conclusion of the warmly welcome Carmel Academy families, and our 2019-2020 academic year. own community will be enhanced through the incorpo- “Given the current realities of finances and enroll- ration of the Carmel community and legacy.” ment, we believe that the very best way to ensure a con- The two schools have long been guided by a com- tinued, top-quality educational experience for our stu- mon set of priorities, including a relentless commitment dents is to seek the expanded opportunities and eco- to academic success for all students; celebration of tra- nomic efficiencies that come with joining a larger, mis- ditional Jewish observance, culture, text and language; sion-aligned institution,” explained Nora Anderson, strong character and values; a warm, nurturing commu- Team members from the 11 participating organizations gathered recently at Temple Carmel Academy’s head of school. nity; and open engagement with diverse perspectives. Beth El, where United Jewish Federation officially launched The Harold Grinspoon Life Carmel Academy has an extraordinary legacy of ac- The boards of trustees and administrations of the two and Legacy program to benefit the local community. The participating organizations ademic excellence, spirited Jewish life and learning and schools are working together to ensure a smooth tran- have one year to secure a minimum of 15 letters of intent from potential donors. attentiveness to the needs of all learners, particularly sition. through its PALS (Providing Alternative Learning Strate- Carmel Academy board member Pam Feldstein (Courtesy of UJF) In mid February, session on how to have the legacy con- gies) program for students with special needs, which will noted, “We are very proud of what we have achieved National Director Arlene Schiff spent versation with potential donors. continue under the auspices of Leffell. as an independent school, and at the same time we feel three days at the Federation, meeting “We are off to a great start,” shared Life The Leffell School was established in 1966 as Sol- a strong sense of responsibility to provide an experi- with each organization to help them and Legacy Coordinator Lenore Fogel. “It omon Schechter School of Westchester and changed ence for our students that preserves the best of what our fine tune their case statement, mar- is wonderful to see the Federation bring its name in July 2019. The White Plains campus hous- school has always represented. We have confidence that keting and stewardship plans. Over 60 the community together to secure a future es grades K-5, and the middle and high schools are lo- integration into The Leffell School community presents team members gathered for a training for all of our amazing institutions.” cated in Hartsdale. The school is known for its rigorous the best pathway for continuing our important mission dual curriculum, unique K-12 engineering and entrepre- and ensuring that the Carmel legacy endures.”

United Jewish Federation’s Cardozo Law Society Invites You to an Evening of Networking & Education Featuring a Panel Discussion On: PROMOTE YOUR Learn about the dangers of cyber security from experts in the field of corporate security and insurance. 1 CLE Credit available sponsored by Goldberg & Segalla BUSINESS Advertise with us & reach the Jewish Monday, April 20th community of Greater Stamford! 6:30pm Dinner & Networking | 7:15pm Program

AON Corporation, 1600 Summer Street, Stamford, 1st floor Panel in Formation: Colleen Caposella, President, CatikPro Chris Dunning, Chief Security Officer, cxLoyalty Moderator: Cathy Satz $36 in advance | $45 at the door | Sign up at www.ujf.org/cyber Co-Chairs: Jeffrey Cunningham, Adam Furmansky, & Jerry Knopf Call Moshe Kinderlehrer at Committee: Mel Bloomenthal, Julie Daniel, Stephen Davidson, 201-366-9102 or email Howland Gordon, Sandra Gottlin, Rob Hoff, Jason Lewis, Sam Raymond, [email protected] Cathy Satz, Maya Sparks, Steve Steinmentz, Howard Wolfe

MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 12 The New Jewish Voice

United Jewish Feder ation’s 2020 Campaign for Communal Needs Powered By YOU! 2019 was a year of innovation Thank you to all our 2019 Donors United Jewish Federation, through a thoughtful strategic planning committee, appointed by then United Jewish Federation will continue to impact the community with the programs funded below as President Ricky Arbron, and chaired past President Fred Springer, spent a year and a half challenging well as the following ongoing initiatives: current thinking through a creative strategic process and took a deep dive into the critical data. • Behrend Institute for Leadership • Free PJ Library Books You, our committed loyal donors have spoken, and with your generosity, over $1.2 million dollars will be • Kuriansky Teen Tzedakah Corps • Reading Partners spent in 2020 to impact the growth of our Jewish community! You can see the impact of your generosity • Life and Legacy • 3SQUARE below. • Math Mates • Women’s Philanthropy Servi c Senio r

UJF events provide opportunities A community-wide mass security The Jewish Historical Society of The JCRC works by convening and Emergency Funds /

The Friendship Circle will host Schoke Jewish Family Service Social Fair eld County and the CT League mobilizing the Jewish community, for Jewish community members in alert system (SCN Alert) will be Schoke Jewish Family Service and facilitate a Passover seder to will administer and facilitate of History Organizations (CLHO) building relationships, and engaging the same profession or life stage to purchased and training will be will design and implement a allow special needs families from programming to address an have joined together to participate in non partisan work focused on gather while learning about timely provided to all area institutions. friendly visiting program geared across our community to enjoy unmet need providing mobile education, advocacy, social justice, and relevant topics - often with the in creating an online catalog of toward reaching elderly and the holiday in a comfortable and counseling and case management communal security, support for Israel opportunity to earn professional materials to chronicle the history of homebound individuals looking controlled environment. services for the physically and combating anti -Semitism. credits. Groups include: lawyers, our Jewish community. for companionship. Additionally, a impaired and home bound elderly t doctors, business professionals, match from Kavod Shef Initiatives and others. NextGen and Chapter Two (empty will provide emergency nancial nesters). assistance to Holocaust survivors. act Y outh and Y

y Im p Jewish Free Loan Society JFEST New Jewish Voice Newspaper Shabbat Across Greater Stamford, Community Chesed B’Yachad/Together Celebrate the Holidays Koleinu Community Choir New Canaan and Darien This program, administered by Schoke This Jewish community festival The New Jewish Voice, published Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy will Schoke Jewish Family Service will Through this program, UCONN An inter-generational choir, Jewish Family Service, will provide will bring locals and visitors to our by UJF, is provided free of charge to UJF coordinates with the Board design a volunteer curriculum provide a welcoming inclusive Hillel at Storrs will enhance comprised of community youth nancial assistance to community community in a fun communal over 5,000 households. Local Jewish of Rabbis to bring our diverse for grades Pre-K through 12 to program for LGBT tweens and students’ celebrations of the and seniors from Atria Senior members in need. atmosphere with food, music and the communal organizations submit community together to celebrate allow for students to volunteer teens where Judaism, sexual Jewish holidays by distributing Living, will be created to perform opportunity to learn more about our articles and photos, and receive Shabbat. Our community is one of a on a regular basis in the local orientation and sexual identity traditional foods and give-a-ways at local functions. The Choir Jewish community. This program will thousands of dollars of free publicity few in North America to successfully community and beyond. The can be explored and embraced in in a public space on campus. will be led by Jonathan Cahr and oung A be spearheaded by the JCC. annually. bring all Jewish denominations purchase of a bus will allow for a safe place. administered by Congregation Communi t under one roof to celebrate Shabbat, transportation as needed. Agudath Sholom. thereby reinforcing what makes our community so unique. dult Oppo r

Israel and Overseas PJ Library Programming Shabbat Together Teen Mitzvah Corp

Shalom/Welcome Program Yom Hashoah Commemoration t The Global Connections program is Through the Shalom/Welcome UJF, together with the Board of UJF’s PJ Library and PJ Our Way Shabbat Together is a weekly Coordinated and run by Temple uniti e at the core of UJF’s support for Israel program, UJF welcomes new Rabbis, brings the community provide programs for children musical Shabbat celebration for Beth El, this communal teen and Overseas. Through the Jewish Jewish residents to our community, together with impactful speakers 6 months to 11 years old and young children and residents of program will focus on social Agency for Israel, Joint Distribution providing them with information and and programs to remember entire send out books monthly free of Atria, a senior living facility in action, hands-on activities and related eld trips. Committee, World ORT and our opportunities to connect Jewishly. communities and individuals lost in charge. These programs serve Stamford. Musical instruments and snacks will be provided. The s partnership with the Afula/Gilboa The Shalom Baby program welcomes the Shoah. as connectors for families with young children to the greater program will be led by volunteers region in Israel, UJF supports those in new babies with gifts and provides community. in cooperation with PJ Library. need as well as the rebirth of Jewish relevant information to their parents. life in countries around the world.

MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 The New Jewish Voice 13

UJF events provide opportunities A community-wide mass security The Jewish Historical Society of The JCRC works by convening and Emergency Funds /

The Jewish Historical Society of Fair eld County and the CT League of History Organizations (CLHO) have joined together to participate in creating an online catalog of materials to chronical the history of our Jewish community. The Jewish Historical Society of Fair eld County and the CT League of History Organizations (CLHO) have joined together to participate in creating an online catalog of materials to chronical the history of our Jewish community. The Jewish Historical Society of Fair eld County and the CT League of History Organizations (CLHO) h ave joined together to participate in creating an online catalog of materials to chronical the history of our Jewish community. y Im p Jewish Free Loan Society JFEST New Jewish Voice Newspaper Shabbat Across Greater Stamford, Community Chesed B’Yachad/Together Celebrate the Holidays Koleinu Community Choir New Canaan and Darien This program, administered by Schoke This Jewish community festival The New Jewish Voice, published Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy will Schoke Jewish Family Service will Through this program, UCONN An inter-generational choir, Jewish Family Service, will provide will bring locals and visitors to our by UJF, is provided free of charge to UJF coordinates with the Board design a volunteer curriculum provide a welcoming inclusive Hillel at Storrs will enhance comprised of community youth nancial assistance to community community in a fun communal over 5,000 households. Local Jewish of Rabbis to bring our diverse for grades Pre-K through 12 to program for LGBT tweens and students’ celebrations of the and seniors from Atria Senior members in need. atmosphere with food, music and the communal organizations submit community together to celebrate allow for students to volunteer teens where Judaism, sexual Jewish holidays by distributing Living, will be created to perform opportunity to learn more about our articles and photos, and receive Shabbat. Our community is one of a on a regular basis in the local orientation and sexual identity traditional foods and give-a-ways at local functions. The Choir Jewish community. This program will thousands of dollars of free publicity few in North America to successfully community and beyond. The can be explored and embraced in in a public space on campus. will be led by Jonathan Cahr and oung A be spearheaded by the JCC. annually. bring all Jewish denominations purchase of a bus will allow for a safe place. administered by Congregation Communi t under one roof to celebrate Shabbat, transportation as needed. Agudath Sholom. thereby reinforcing what makes our community so unique. dult Oppo r

Israel and Overseas PJ Library Programming Shabbat Together Teen Mitzvah Corp

MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 14 The New Jewish Voice INTERNATIONALPURIM NEWS Celebrate Purim With Chabad of Stamford (Courtesy of Chabad of Stamford) Chabad you are homebound and would like to arrange of Stamford has a full schedule of activities a reading, please contact Chabad of Stamford. planned for Purim, and invites the communi- Chabad will also host a Purim seudah, ty to join them. holiday meal, starting at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, On Monday night, March 9, beginning at March 10. 7:15 p.m., they will celebrate Purim with the Drop in for a l’chaim, toast, a bite to eat theme of “Around the Jewish Year @ Purim in and some good Purim spirit. The seudah is a the Bakerie.” Each holiday on the Jewish cal- free event, but sponsorship opportunities are endar will be represented with delicious baked available and RSVPs are required. Both events goods, from sweet treats for Rosh Hashanah are open to all. to a dairy pizza bar for Shavuot and much One of the four mitzvot celebrated on more. Purim is to send mishloach manot, gifts of Megillah readings will start at 7:30 p.m., food, to friends in the spirit of Jewish uni- followed by live music, an open bar, kids’ en- ty and joy. Mishloach manot, or shalach tertainment and lively dancing. Every child manos, are gifts that contain two differ- and adult in costume will receive a prize. Ad- ent ready-to-eat foods and are sent, usual- Four Acrobats skillfully balance and spin silk umbrellas. vanced booking is $10 per child and $12 per ly by a third party, to a friend or communi- adult, with a $45 max per family. The cost at ty member on the day of Purim. Every year, the event is $12 per child and $15 per adult, Chabad of Stamford sends over 900 mish- with a $55 max per family. Late Megillah read- loach manot to Jewish families throughout ‘Fabulous Chinese ings will also be held at 9:30 p.m. that night. Stamford and Fairfield counties. The following day, Tuesday, March 10, For more information about Chabad of Megillah readings will be held throughout the Stamford’s Shalach Manos Project, the Pu- Acrobats’ to Perform at day, at 8:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., noon, 5:30 p.m. rim party, seudah or Megillah readings, and 6:30 p.m. If you would like to schedule a go to www.StamfordChabad.org or contact Megillah reading at your office or school, or if [email protected]. TBE Purim Celebration (Courtesy of Temple Beth El) On Monday, March 9, Temple Beth El will celebrate Pu- Chabad New Canaan rim with a special family Megillah reading at 6 p.m. and the traditional costume parade during services. This year’s Purim celebration will feature Plans Purim Treasure Hunt a performance by the Fabulous Chinese Ac- (Courtesy of Chabad of New Canaan) The fantastic time to engage the next generation,” robats, straight from Cirque Du Soleil. This Chabad New Canaan Jewish Center is look- said Michal Mendelow, director of the New group has thrilled over 15,000 audience mem- ing for talented children for a Purim event. On Canaan Hebrew School. “Our goal is to make bers, ranging in age from 6 months to over 100 Purim Day, March 10, teams of children will the holiday celebrations fresh, exciting and years old. Acrobat twists and bends her body in work together to solve a holiday mystery in a educational. This program is specifically de- This brand-new generation of acrobats mesmerizing ways. thrilling scavenger hunt. signed to teach children who are not in Jewish brings a new energy and never-before-seen A major theme of the holiday of Purim is Day Schools the joys of Purim." routines. The Fabulous Chinese Acrobats are as huge porcelain planter pots, silk umbrellas, hidden miracles. In line with that theme, the The program will include dinner, tradi- comprised of four individuals who perform tables or each other as they share this ancient children will uncover mysteries in a top-secret tional Purim foods, and a multimedia Megil- dazzling acrobatic stunts and feats of balance, and colorful art form. treasure-hunt mission. Kids will follow their lah presentation. flexibility, coordination and strength. The as- Following the performance, the acrobats treasure maps and crack codes while learning This Purim event will take place on March tounding feats of skill, focus and athleticism will answer any questions through their inter- about the Purim story. From Esther to Mor- 10 at 5:15 p.m. will wow young and old alike and the show is preter in an open question and answer period. dechai, from Haman to Acheshverosh, they’ll The program is open to the entire com- one attendees will remember and talk about The program is sponsored by the TBE Sis- uncover all the major personalities and events. munity. For more information email Michal@ for weeks and months after the performance. terhood and Men’s Club. “We’ve found that Jewish holidays are a NewCanaanJewish.org. These talented athletes tumble and flip, and An adult Megillah reading will be held at twist and bend in mesmerizing ways, demon- 8 p.m. strating how practice, concentration and hard The community is invited to attend at no work turn their bodies into moving works of charge. For more information, contact Steven Get Wild at the JCC Purim art. They skillfully balance or juggle items such Lander, executive director, at 203-322-6901. Carnival Purim Luncheon for (Courtesy of JCC) Kids and grownups of and other delicious treats. Lunch and oth- all ages are invited to join the fun at the Jew- er refreshments will be available for pur- ish Community Center’s 28th Annual Purim chase. Seniors Planned at the JCC Carnival, planned for Sunday, March 1, from The event will be held indoors at the JCC, 1- 4 p.m. located at the intersection of Newfield Avenue (Courtesy of JCC) Senior adults are invit- is being generously sponsored by Betsey and The JCC will be transformed into a zoo- and Vine Road in Stamford. ed to attend the JCC’s annual Purim luncheon Arthur Selkowitz. Reservations are required by themed carnival with games, kangaroo bounce Admission is free. Purchase tickets and on Friday, March 6, from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Shake Friday, February 28. Free to all seniors. house, attractions and prizes. For younger chil- bracelets for games and attractions. groggers and enjoy entertainment and a festive To make reservations or for more informa- dren there will be inflatables, crafts and more. Volunteers are needed. For more informa- meal, with hamantaschen for dessert. tion, contact Connie Cirillo Freeman, director, No Purim carnival would be complete tion or to volunteer, please contact Jason Samu- Entertainment will begin at 11 a.m., fol- JCC Arts & Culture and Seniors, at 203-487- without “animal snacks,” hamantaschen el at 203-487-0973 or [email protected]. lowed by the luncheon at noon. The luncheon 0983 or [email protected]. MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 PURIM The New Jewish Voice 15 Let’s Enjoy a Vegetarian Purim BY RONNIE FEIN them lightly. Let sit for about 15 minutes, If you’re kosher, eating away from home then wipe the surface dry with paper towels. can be difficult. You might be able to find Brush the slices with about four to five ta- a suitable restaurant, but maybe not. That’s blespoons of the olive oil and place them in why many of the people I know who are ko- a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 15 sher and who also travel a lot have found a minutes, turn the slices and bake for anoth- way to keep true to their commitment and er 12-15 minutes, or until the slices are ten- feel comfortable about their decision: eat der. Let the slices cool. Reduce the oven heat vegetarian. It’s a good way to avoid non-ko- to 350 degrees. sher meat and, of course, there’s never an is- Heat six tablespoons of olive oil in a sau- sue about mixing meat and dairy. té pan over medium heat. Add the onion That’s what Queen Esther chose to do and carrots and cook, stirring occasionally, when she lived at King Ahasuerus’s palace. for four to five minutes or until the onions Or so I’ve read. Is it an apocryphal tale? No have softened. Add the garlic and mush- one can be sure, but most historians stick to rooms and continue to cook for another that story, and it sounds just fine with me. three to four minutes. Add the spinach and And even if it is not perfectly true, it has be- cook for one to two minutes. Add the to- come tradition to celebrate Purim, which matoes, parsley, oregano, cumin and cinna- begins at sundown on March 9, with a vege- mon. Season to taste with salt and pepper. tarian seudah, holiday meal. Cook for about 15 minutes or until the sauce If this sounds like a tasty idea to you, let is very thick. me suggest the perfect dinner dish: vegetar- Cook the potatoes in a large pot of light- ian moussaka. It is sumptuous, festive food, ly salted water for about 15 minutes, or un- perfectly fitting for a joyous holiday. You can til tender. Let the potatoes cool, then peel prepare it in advance and just pop it in the and slice them into 1/4-inch rounds and set oven for dinner. This is the kind of vegetari- aside. an food that a few of my friends thought was Make a béchamel white sauce: heat the so good, they never went back to a meat- butter in a saucepan over medium heat. based diet. When the butter has melted and looks foamy, Vegetarian Moussaka lower the heat, add the flour and whisk the 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/2-inch ingredients for two to three minutes. Grad- thick rounds ually add the milk and whisk the ingredients The cover of Ronnie Fein’s newest cookbook, “The Modern Kosher Kitchen.” salt for two to three minutes or until a thick sauce 2/3 cup olive oil, approximately has formed. Stir about a half cup of the hot 1 large onion, chopped sauce into the egg yolks, stir to blend the in- 2 medium chopped carrots gredients and add the mixture back into the 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped saucepan. Stir in 3/4 cup of the cheese, whisk 3 Portobello mushrooms, chopped the ingredients until smooth and set aside. 1 bunch fresh spinach (or 2 packed cups Lightly grease a 9”x13” oven proof cas- baby spinach leaves) serole. Layer the ingredients as follows: half 1 28-ounce can plum tomatoes, the eggplant on the bottom, then the pota- undrained toes, then the vegetable sauce, then the re- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley maining eggplant. Cover with the béchamel 1 teaspoon dried oregano sauce. Sprinkle with the remaining 1/4 cup 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin cheese. 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon Bake for about 45 minutes or until top is freshly ground black pepper to taste bubbly and golden brown. 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled Makes 8 servings 6 tablespoons butter Ronnie Fein is a cookbook author, food 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour writer and cooking teacher in Stamford. 2-1/2 cups milk She is the author of The Modern Kosher 2 large egg yolks Kitchen and Hip Kosher. Visit her food 1 cup grated Parmesan or Romano blog, Kitchen Vignettes, at www.ronnie- cheese fein.com, or find her on Facebook at Ron- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Place nieVailFein, Twitter at @RonnieVFein, or the eggplant slices on a surface and salt Instagram @RonnieVFein.

MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 16 The New Jewish Voice COMMUNITY NEWS Our Impact in Israel A glimpse of UJF’s partnership with Afula-Gilboa (Courtesy of UJF) For the past 50 years, ernmental organizations (NGOs). These United Jewish Federation has been part of programs vary by year, based on need and the Southern New England Consortium allocations made by a committee of all (SNEC). SNEC currently includes 12 New SNEC partners. England Federations and partners with Miller-Marlowe shared, “I am excited the Afula-Gilboa region in the North of to take on the role as the UJF board chair Israel. of SNEC. Our Federation does amazing This past January, Dinah Miller-Mar- life-saving and community building work lowe, UJF’s SNEC chair; Nancy Mimoun, in the region. I feel incredibly blessed to SNEC regional co-chair; and UJF staff have spent four days seeing the impact of member Sharon Franklin participated in a our work. Every dollar makes a measura- SNEC mission where they spent four days ble difference.” US/Israel SNEC steering committee. in the Afula-Gilboa region of Israel meet- I have been involved with the partner- ing with local lay leaders and visiting the ship for over 20 years and have and have vis- projects our community funds. ited annually. I have seen our impact make a Ethiopian Beit Alpha Absorption residential and 70 day clients from 6 to18 Afula-Gilboa is known as a periphery measurable difference,” expressed Nancy Mi- Center: While Ethiopian aliyah has been go- years old. Its goal is to create a function- community in Northern Israel. It houses a moun. ing on since the 80s, there are still more Ethi- al family/home that is nurturing and safe. large percentage of immigrants, and most Some of the highlights of SNEC’s pro- opian Jews wanting to return to their home- Emek Medical Center: This 588 bed residents fall into a lower socio-econom- gramming in the Afula-Gilboa region in- land. Ethiopian immigrants today are mostly hospital is for both Jews and Arabs. SNEC ic bracket. Afula has 58,000 residents and clude the following: older people; they need to learn new life skills, support is currently directed to the Dream Gilboa has 33,000 residents, including five Afula Youth Future: This program has especially those necessary for embracing a Clowns Program, where trained medical Arab villages. trained counselors who teach at-risk chil- new and different society. There are 450 new clowns keep children distracted so they In 1970, the then-UJA campaign dren how to deal with bullying and home en- immigrants currently living in the absorption do not need to be put under anesthesia for launched Project Renewal, designed to vironments that are frightening or neglectful. center, which assists with their process of accli- medical tests. help periphery towns in Israel. Twenty Children are in this program for at least three mating to western life Marching Together for a Shared Fu- years ago, SNEC was established. Today, years. DOROT Ba Gilboa: Five hundred seniors, ture: This important initiative promotes 46 different partnerships exist throughout The Sandwich Club: This is a project of age 62 and up, use this senior center every day. coexistence between Jews and Arabs. It the US, Canada and Europe, all focused on Afula Crowns (a local community center), It offers different services for older seniors, runs joint activities where participants get maximizing dollars for, and programming and brings together 200 at-risk teens daily to including exercise groups for clients with to know each other to dispel fear and stig- in, different regions in Israel. Partnership make sandwiches for the next day’s lunch for Parkinson’s disease and vision and hearing ma. The goal is to build a facility for these Together (P2G), is a program of the Jewish children who “forget” their lunch. They feed services. activities and ultimately duplicate the pro- Agency for Israel that links communities in about 300 children a day, but the need is for Beit Singer: This therapeutic boarding gram throughout Israel. the Diaspora with communities in Israel. 500. school serves children ages 7 to 18 from “Seeing these programs and how they SNEC is currently funding 10 non-gov- Tarbut Movement: Through this pro- around Israel. The school focuses on main- made a positive change on the commu- gram, young artists and educators have cre- streaming residents, and they receive sup- nities of Afula-Gilboa was a gift I hope I ated urban kibbutzim to strengthen weak- port until they are 25 years old. The school can repay in my chairing our communi- ened towns. They use culture as a vehicle for encompasses a therapeutic zoo, which ties partnership with SNEC,” added Mill- self-empowerment and social change to sup- helps teach the children responsibility. Fu- er-Marlowe. “Together we can do so much port the future of Israel. ture plans include communal housing for m ore .” LGBTQ/Home in the Valley: This advo- their lone soldiers for when they return “In addition to our financial support, cacy groupworks to get needed services for from duty. the partnership is very interested in mak- the LGBTQ community and create accom- Rape Crisis Center: This provides ing people to people connections— mon- modating solutions for a shared society. support for victims and families, includ- ey is great, but relationships strength- Jewish-Arab Joint Basketball Team: Gil- ing advocacy, legal, education, and pre- en the world Jewish community and the boa is home to six Arab villages and this bas- vention. The Afula center is a satellite of Israeli community to understand the ketball team brings together Israeli Arabs and the center in Haifa and the plan is to ulti- unique culture of both communities,” she Jews to create respect and integration through mately build a local facility. concluded. Marching band greeted guests. sports. Given the complexities of the region, Emunah Sarah Herzog Children’s For more information on the partnership, co-existence initiatives such as this are crucial. Center: This therapeutic center houses 50 contact Diane Sloyer at [email protected].

Ethiopian Buna, coffee ceremony. Participants met with local interfaith basketball team.

MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 INTERNATIONALCOMMUNITY NEWS NEWS The New Jewish Voice 17 Chabad of Stamford Friendship Circle Superbowl Girls Bond At Shabbaton Party Is Super Fun (Courtesy of The Friendship Circle) On guacamole, and hot cocoa and brownies for Superbowl Sunday, The Friendship Circle the second half. The adults had fun playing adults gathered together in The Friendship board games with their friends, watching the Circle lounge for their own Superbowl par- game and laughing together. ty. This new tradition began last year when Dovi Zucker, an adult Friendship Cir- Chana, a Friendship Circle staff member, de- cle member, said, “I had such a great time veloped the idea. playing board games and hanging out with “I felt like everyone was celebrating and friends! It was a really fun night!” in the spirit. Why shouldn’t these young The Superbowl party is just one of adults socialize and have fun like everyone the many programs and activities that else in a safe and enjoyable environment?” The Friendship Circle of Fairfield Coun- she said. ty conducts. There are many other events The party goers spent the evening like for adults and children with special needs, millions of football fans everywhere. They as well as services for their families. To watched the game on the big screen, en- learn more about the Friendship Circle joyed the football decorations and parapher- of Fairfield County and how you can get nalia, and shared a large Superbowl spread. involved, please contact Malya Shmotkin Some of the classic Superbowl foods includ- at [email protected] or 203-409- ed wings, franks and blanks, fries, chips and 1543.

Girls at Chabad of Stamford’s Bat Mitzvah and Beyond Club experienced an authentic shabbaton, bonding and connecting with other girls and youth leaders, culminating in a post Shabbat group laser tag outing.

Bi-Cultural Teens Honor Legacy of MLK Jr.

(l-r) Craig Dinerstein, Eytan Nisinzweig and Dovi Zucker eat and chat during the Friendship Circle Superbowl party.

Learn About ‘Positivity Bias’ With Chabad of Stamford (Courtesy of Chabad of Stamford) tion and positive action with stories Chabad of Stamford’s longstanding and examples to inspire. In Shem- weekly ‘’Torah and Tea’’ classes for tov’s words, she introduced this class women added a new dimension this because although “it may be cloudy winter with the introduction of a 10- and grey outside, this class can help week program based on the inspiring us all find the silver lining and learn book “Positivity Bias” by Rabbi Men- how to turn things around in order del Kalmenson. to create our own ‘Positivity Bias.’ For Leah Shemtov, “The signifi- Each class explores how positivity cance of studying this book is cru- can be a choice and shows the power On Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Stamford “ReSurfers” traveled to the Martin Luther King, cial in giving us all a positivity boost of reframing which can help every- Jr. Community Center in Long Beach, N.Y. to participate in a day of chesed, community service. The Stamford delegation included students from Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy each week and helping us gain the one find their silver linings.” Upper School, who worked alongside dozens of community center members and tools we need to overcome negativ- Each Torah and Tea class is local Jewish teens to repair and restore 40 donated bicycles that were then gifted to it y.” self-contained and can be taken indi- local children in need. The teens—Doug Herman, Juliet Lewis, Ella Hoffman and Avi Rabbi Kalmenson’s book, based vidually or year round. For more in- Wiederhorn—also participated in an assembly honoring the legacy of the late Rev. Dr. on the teachings of the Lubavitch- formation on Chabad’s adult learn- King. Resurf/NCSY is a national teen-based chesed organization, with a New England er Rebbe, shares the ideals of posi- ing opportunities, please contact chapter based in Stamford. tive thinking, positive communica- [email protected]. MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 18 The New Jewish Voice COMMUNITY NEWS

UJF Welcomes New Additions With Carmel Fourth Graders Win ‘Shalom Baby’ Visits ‘Tzedakah Coin Challenge’ (Courtesy of UJF) Stam- ford native Adina Adelman and her son Eli recently received a Shalom Baby visit from Sharon Franklin, Unit- ed Jewish Federation man- aging director of campaign and community engagement. Shalom Baby is a program providing new babies (and their parents) a warm welcome to the community, including a gift bag filled with baby items, helpful information and a PJ Library book. If you or someone you know is expecting or has recently had a baby, please contact Franklin at sharon@ujf. org, or call 203-321-5364 to (Courtesy of UJF) Federation’s annual Super Sunday brings the community together by en- Adina Adelman and her son Eli. arrange a Shalom Baby visit. gaging area school children in the “Tzedakah Coin Challenge.” The class that raises the most money for charity wins a pizza party. Melissa Vitti’s fourth grade class at Carmel Academy won the challenge and recently enjoyed their pizza party. The children learned about the work Israeli Film Series Continues at The J UJF does locally, in Israel and in 72 countries around the world. (Courtesy of JCC) Join David Citrin, who was killed during Operation En- the Jewish Engagement & Innovation tebbe, a hostage-rescue mission carried Coordinator, as he screens award-win- out at Entebbe Airport in Uganda on Schoke JFS Achieves ning Israeli films at the JCC. Following July 4, 1976, after members of the Popu- each film, Citrin will explore the many lar Front for the Liberation of Palestine COA Accreditation facets of Israel and facilitate a discussion. and the German Revolutionary Cells hi- “Follow Me: The Yoni Netanyahu Sto- jacked an Air France plane with 248 pas- (Courtesy of Schoke JFS) Schoke ings, COA’s volunteer-based Accredita- ry” will be shown on Thursday, March sengers aboard. Jewish Family Service has achieved its tion Commission voted that Schoke JFS 26, at 7:00 p.m.. This film is the sto- For more information, contact David sixth national re-accreditation through had successfully met the criteria for ac- ry of Yonatan Netanyahu, commander Citrin at 203-487-0961 or dcitrin@stam- the New York-based Council on Ac- creditation. of an elite Israeli army commando unit fordjcc.org. creditation (COA). Organizations pur- Founded in 1977, COA is an inde- sue accreditation to demonstrate the pendent, not-for-profit accreditor of the implementation of best practice stand- full continuum of community-based be- ards in the field of human services. havioral health care and social service or- Join Mitzvah Mondays at Schoke JFS COA accreditation is an objective, ganizations in the United States and Can- independent and reliable validation of ada. Over 2,000 organizations have either (Courtesy of Schoke JFS) On the third Thank you to the organizing com- an agency’s performance. To achieve successfully achieved COA accreditation Monday of each month, children of all ages mittee chaired by Hilary and Ari Gold- COA accreditation, Schoke JFS first or are currently engaged in the process. from toddlers to teens are welcome to bring stein, Robin and Jason Fischel, Jami and provided written evidence of compli- To learn more about COA, please visit a minimum of 10 items to help restock the Scott Fener and Robin and Mike Himel- ance with the COA standards. There- www.coanet.org. shelves of the Freedberg Family Kosher stein. Please assist Schoke JFS with food after, a group of specially trained vol- Schoke JFS services 15 towns in Food Pantry. The pantry needs items such collections. Drop off food items at 196 unteer peer reviewers from around Fairfield County including the great- as canned fish, vegetables, fruit, beans, cere- Greyrock Place, Stamford. Donations North America confirmed adherence er Stamford, Westport and Bridgeport als, peanut butter, tomato sauce, juice, pasta, can be made online www.ctjfs.org/ko- to these standards during a series of areas. Please visit www.ctjfs.org for a rice, nuts, dried fruits, granola bars, tea and sherfoodpantry. on-site interviews. Based on their find- complete list of services and programs. coffee, laundry detergent, dishwasher soap, If you have questions, please contact cleaning products and personal care prod- Lisa Rich at 203-921-4161 or LRich@ct- ucts. jfs.org. Schoke Jewish Family Service Introduces UConn Center for Judaic Studies to One-on-One Financial Coaching (Courtesy of Schoke JFS) Elayne goals. He will help individuals create and and James Schoke Jewish Family Ser- manage a personal budget, teach a better Offer Hebrew Language Crash Course vice is offering an opportunity for understanding of credit and help them (Courtesy of UConn Center for Ju- the Hebrew University in Israel. one-on-one financial counseling and make wise financial decisions to reach set daic Studies) The UConn Center for Pre-registration is not necessary coaching. Jake Meyer, a financial ex- financial goals. All instruction will help Judaic Studies and Contemporary and no texts are required for pur- ecutive and Schoke JFS volunteer, will lead to financial sustainability. Jewish Life is pleased to announce chase. No prior knowledge of the lan- coach clients on select Wednesdays The coaching will be by appointment that Dr. Liora Brosh is teaching a free guage is expected. All sessions will from 10:30 a.m. to noon at the Stam- only. Please contact Rebekah Kanefsky non-credit "crash course" in conver- be held in Room 313 at the UConn ford office of Schoke JFS, 196 Grey- by phone at 203-921-4161 or email at sational Modern Hebrew. Professor Stamford campus on Mondays from rock Place. [email protected] to reserve a session. Brosh, a native speaker, holds under- 6:30-8 p.m.: March 9, March 23, Meyer will discuss and teach clients For more information, please visit graduate and graduate degrees from April 6, April 20. about personal finance and budget www.ctjfs.org. MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 COMMUNITY NEWS The New Jewish Voice 19 Congratulations, BCHA Hackers! (Courtesy of BCHA) A team hours to brainstorm, develop a son, Joshua Marcus, Zane Roshe and of students from Bi-Cultural solution and design and build a Joshua Schulman also successfully met Hebrew Academy Upper School prototype of a related IOT (In- the CIJE Hackathon challenge with their have emerged champions of the ternet of Things) device. innovative Faucet Saver, a device intend- 2020 Center for Initiatives in "CIJE Hackathon gave our ed to detect faucet leakage, notify own- Jewish Education (CIJE) Hack- engineering students the oppor- ers via text message and preserve runoff athon, held Wednesday, January tunity to use their design, con- until the problem can be fixed. 29, at Yeshiva University in New struction and coding skills to “At the BCHA Upper School, our stu- York City. The team’s victory create a prototype device to solve dents understand that they are learning follows on the heels of BCHA a real world problem. BCHA is and growing their skills, competencies, Upper School’s first-place win very proud of the teamwork, te- and confidence in order to be and be- at the CIJE Innovation Day nacity and talent they showed," come contributors to our world,” said competition held last May in said Dr. Paul Castle who, togeth- Upper School principal Rabbi Shim- New Jersey. er with William Berson, heads my Trencher. “Their exemplary perfor- Two teams of BCHA Upper up the Upper School’s engineer- mance, yet again, is a testament not only School students, all members ing program. to their skill and training but also to of the Stamford school’s engi- The Auto Composter created their passion, creativity and teamwork. neering program, were among by the BCHA team of Shira Ha- These 21st century skills are essential 150 students from 18 differ- ron, Donny DeFala, Etan Doft for success in a changing world and are ent schools to participate in the and Alex Kramer was awarded constantly nurtured here at BCHA.” annual Hackathon, created by first place. The winning device The Center for Initiatives in Jewish CIJE in partnership with Grow uses a soil moisture sensor and Education is a non-profit organization Torah and Yeshiva University. online monitoring of the soil to providing STEM resources and curricu- The two teams from Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy Upper This year’s competition chal- School who participated in the CIJE Hackathon on January automatically mix the soil nu- lum to more than 250 schools that ex- lenged students to come up with 29, together with their engineering program teachers. trients as needed. The team also pose students to problem-solving per- ways to leverage technology and Front row (l to r): Alex Kramer (grade 11), Shira Haron incorporated a Peltier tile that spectives and hands-on technical skills the community to address the (grade 10), Emily Seligson (grade 10). Middle row (l to heated the soil to ensure maxi- that scientists and engineers use to solve most critical environmental is- r): teachers William Berson and Dr. Paul Castle. Back row mum dissolved nutrients in the real-world problems. sues of today to create a healthi- (l to r): Etan Doft (grade 11), Zane Roshe (grade 11), soil. For more information about the er and sustainable present. Each Donny DeFala (grade 11), Josh Marcus (grade 10) and Josh The BCHA Upper School BCHA Upper School, please call (203) team was then allowed just four Schulman (grade 11). team that included Emily Selig- 329-2186. Meet Retired Correspondent Holocaust Survivors Jeff Goldman Relax With Mind Thursday, 1035 March Newfield And Body Connection 12th, Avenue, 7:30pm Stamford

Highlights of Jeff’s 40 year career • Served 6 Presidents. • Covered both Gulf Wars. • Lived in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia during both military interventions. • Traveled to Israel and other countries in the region multiple times with several Presidents. • Witnesses the historic White House hand shake between Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and PLO chairman Yasser Arafat. • Interviewed Syrian President Hafez Al Assad in Damascus, Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak in Egypt, King Hussein in Amman Jordan and then Israeli President Shimon Peres in Jerusalem. Participants learn relaxing breathing techniques. • Covered the Balkan war and troop interventions in Somalia, Haiti, and Iraq. (Courtesy of Schoke JFS) Victoria Boyko, a Anachnu is a program supported by a • Traveled around the globe with Secretaries of State Hillary Clinton, licensed yoga instructor and Franklin Meth- grant from the Jewish Federations of North Condoleeza Rice and General Colin Powell. od Educator, recently led a small group of America Center for Holocaust Survivor Care Holocaust survivors in the Anachnu pro- program. The grant helps Schoke JFS advance This program sponsored by UJF’s JCRC and free and opened to the public. gram in exercises to improve the mind with person-centered, trauma-informed support- movement of the body. All participants ive services for Holocaust survivors in Fairfield RSVP’s Appreciated ujf.org/Goldman sat in chairs in the conference room of the County. Claims Conference, Kavod Shef and For questions, call (203) 321-1373 Schoke JFS Smilow Family Campus in Stam- Federation’s Kuriansky Teen Tzedekah also ford. Many of the routines involved arm and support the Anachnu program. leg raises and stretches along with breathing For information or questions, please con- techniques to relax and “let go” of negative tact Marina Sapir, program director, at 203- thoughts. 570-0872 or email [email protected]. MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 20 The New Jewish Voice INTERNATIONALCOMMUNITY NEWS NEWS Chabad of Stamford’s JWC Temple Beth El: Rockin’ for 100 Years

(Courtesy of Temple Beth El) Temple founded. Over 220 people danced to 1920s Celebrates Leah Shemtov’s Birthday Beth El kicked off its 100th anniversary year music by The Galvanized Band. The prohibi- at Temple Rock on February 1 when the so- tion bar was a popular stop, as well as the hot (Courtesy of Chabad cial hall was transformed back to the prohibi- dog stand. A huge buffet of 1920s comfort food of Stamford) Chabad of tion years of the 1920s when the temple was was catered by W Kosher Catering & Events. Stamford’s Jewish Wom- en Connected joined to celebrate Leah Shem- tov’s birthday with a class on Jewish birthday customs and a fun hands-on cookie decorating class with master baker and cookie dec- orator Rifki Turner of Rifkis Petite Treats. Attention Teens! JHSFC Wants to Give You Prize Money

(Courtesy of Jewish Historical Society of The Connecticut State Contest, which Fairfield County) The Jewish Historical Soci- is managed by the Connecticut Pub- Dressed for the celebrations are (l-r) Caryl Poser, Malerie Yolen-Cohen, Sue Plutzer and ety of Fairfield County is again offering priz- lic Affairs Network, will hold its Fair- Judy Aronin. (Credit: Aviva Maller Photography) es in conjunction with National History Day field County regional contest on April 4, (NHD). This is a competition which encour- its state contest on May 2 and its nation- ages critical thinking and supports research al contest in early June. Any adult inter- skills. ested in serving as a judge in the region- Any Connecticut student in grades 6-12 al contest should contact Rebecca Tabor whose entry in any category or division incor- Conover, head of Connecticut History porates an aspect of Jewish history, Jewish her- Day, at 860-368-0738. itage or a Jewish individual into the 2020 NHD Complete student details regarding theme, “Breaking Barriers in History,” will be Connecticut National History Day can considered for a monetary award. In addition, be found at historydayCT.org. Those in- JHSFC will recognize the winners, their teach- terested in creating a project and devel- ers and their schools at a special program. oping their perspective and understand- Past winning entries have dealt with sub- ing of history through research are wel- jects such as Golda Meir, The Six Day War, come to contact the Jewish Historical So- Mordechai Anielewicz, Barbara Walters, a ciety of Fairfield County Archives at 203- grandfather who survived World War II, FDR 359-2196 for assistance to find appropri- and the Jews and Leo Frank. Past winners have ate materials and prepare their entries. come from schools in Stamford, Greenwich, Last year’s winning entries and more in- Westport, Weston, Fairfield, Avon and Hart- formation about JHSFC can be found at (l-r) TBE member Alan Sosnowitz and guest dancers Gwen and Parker Ackerly, Mark ford. www.jhsfc-ct.org. and Karen Milosky and their crank wood and metal antique gramophone and 100 year old picnic table set. (Credit: Aviva Maller Photography) Reading Partners Participates in Professional Development Series Schoke JFS Spearheads Passover (Courtesy of UJF) As part of the United Davenport, said, “It was great to be re- Food Collection Way’s initiative to help Stamford youth minded of the importance of oral language achieve success, Federation Reading Part- versus decoding and I am always looking (Courtesy of Schoke JFS) This year, the larg- Passover products, including traditional food items ners in the Early Grade Reading Commu- for new things to do with my kids, so some est food delivery program at Schoke Jewish Fam- vital to the Seder table, such as grape juice, matzah, nity Action Network joined for the first of of the exercises and games that were mod- ily Service (JFS) will take place on March 29, macaroons and much more. Harry Rich of HL Rich a three-part literacy professional develop- eled were great and I will use them with ahead of Passover, at which time over 300 bags and Sons Moving Company will transport food from ment series given by Stamford Cradle to my students.” will be distributed to community members expe- donation sites to the Schoke JFS office. The March 29 Career public school administrators. The Reading Partners has been a program riencing food insecurity. The program chairs, Risa packing event will be held at the Schoke JFS - Smilow first session focused on the topic of oral lan- of UJF for over 20 years and strives to of- Goldblum, Liz Kitay and Marina Sapir, will provide Family Campus, located at 196 Greyrock Place. guage as it relates to literacy. fer continuing support to their volun- the necessary leadership, assisted by support from Those interested in getting involved with this Volunteers from United Jewish Feder- teers by having workshops throughout the community organizations. Passover program can join the March food drives at ation’s Reading Partners and other organi- school year as well as staff liaisons at each Local Stamford temples, synagogues, Jewish Stop & Shop, or donate Passover food to the Freed- zations were treated to an hour and a half school to help with any reading questions schools and organizations will be engaged in the berg Family Kosher Food Pantry. Contact the office multi-pronged approach to developing oral that arise. Cradle to Career is offering a live collection process. On March 22, Hebrew School to be a volunteer and help with bagging and deliv- language skills. Different educators present- stream and recorded link to be viewed later for students and families from Temple Beth El will col- ering of the Passover food. ed varying approaches to the topic, and then those who are unable to attend. lect food at the Stop & Shop supermarket in Ridge- If you know of someone who could benefit provided small group hands-on activities For more information on becoming a part way Shopping Center. Temple Sinai Hebrew school from the Freedberg Family Kosher Food Pantry that volunteers can implement when read- of the Herbert and Sarah M. Gibor UJF Read- students and families will oversee the actual bag- services, please contact Rebekah Kanefsky at 203- ing and working with their students. ing Partners, please contact Lenore Fogel at ging and distribution event on March 29. Dan Katz 921-4161 or email [email protected]. All servic- Melanie French, a Reading Partner at [email protected] or 203-321-1373 X115. of FoodTown will generously donate Kosher for es are strictly confidential. MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 INTERNATIONALPJ LIBRARY NEWS The New Jewish Voice 21 PJ Corner BY SHARON FRANKLIN

▶ Free Jewish books are shops is a three-part series that your noise makers (groggers)! available through PJ Library will start on March 12 and will  Give to the needy and fulfill the for kids 6 months to 8 years include a craft and education mitzvah of matanot l’evyonim. This can of age. Each child in this age about Shabbat candles. The cost be as simple as putting coins in a tzeda- range can receive their own is $7 per child, and pizza is in- kah box or delivering food or clothing to book. Sign up for a monthly cluded. Sign up at www.ujf.org/ a shelter. book at www.pjlibrary.org. pjworkshop. Other workshop  Bake hamantaschen, a triangle ▶ PJ Our Way is now dates are April 30 and May 21. cookie shaped like the villain Haman’s available for kids 8 ½ to 12 ▶ New: PJ Library Story & hat. Go to https://www.myjewishlearn- years of age. Sign up for a free Sharon Franklin Play Time will be held on Tues- ing.com/the-nosher/rainbow-haman- chapter book at www.pjour- day mornings from 9:30 a.m. to taschen for a colorful recipe! way.org. 10:00 a.m. on March 17, April 21, May 19  Make mishloach manot, a Purim ▶ gift of food for a friend. See below for Sign up for a free $100 PJ Library and June 9. Drop in to hear a story and en- Ice Cream Cone Mishloach Manot Get-Together. Plan a fun gathering with two joy some play time. For children 3 and un- (Purim gifts). a fun, edible and easy mishloach manot or more other families raising Jewish chil- der with a parent or caregiver. Meet in the li- idea. You will need cones, plastic baggies dren. Throw a Purim party, welcome Shabbat brary at 1035 Newfield Ave, Stamford. This is or icing sleeves, ribbon and an assort- PJ Library-style, volunteer together or invite a free program. GREAT PURIM IDEAS FOR YOUR ment of candy of your choice. friends to participate in your own great idea. ▶ PJ Library’s Pre-Passover Supper & FAMILY! Step 1: Place a cone in a baggie or ic- Sign up at www.pjlibrary.org/GetTogether. Song will be held on April 2 from 5-6:30 p.m.. The holiday of Purim celebrates the sto- ing sleeve and move to the bottom of the ▶ Celebrate Purim in Hollywood on There will be music, crafts and plenty of cha- ry of Queen Esther and Mordechai, and the plastic. Sunday, March 8, at 3 p.m. with PJ Library & metz. The cost is $7 per child, and includes victory of the Jews over the wicked Haman. Step 2: Fill with your choice of candy, Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy. Enjoy a car- dinner. To sign up go to www.ujf.org/pjpass-  Dress in costume! Looking for tie a ribbon in a knot at the top, then curl nival, crafts, snacks, a costume parade and over. Location TBD. easy no-sew costumes for your kids? Go the ribbon to make it festive. more. RSVP to www.ujf.org.pjpurim. The ▶ Join one of UJF’s “Play Together” to https://pjlibrary.org/beyond-books/pj- For more information on anything PJ, program will be held at BCHA, 2186 High neighborhood groups and enjoy fun home blog/february-2017/how-to-diy-purim- please contact Sharon Franklin, manag- Ridge Road, Stamford. Free program but reg- gatherings or outings. Free of charge. To find costume. ing director of campaign and community istration appreciated. out more, contact Sharon Franklin at sha-  Go hear a family Megillah reading engagement, at (203) 321-1373, ext 109 ▶ New: Pizza & Pajamas Shabbat Work- [email protected]. on Monday night or on Tuesday. Bring or email [email protected]. UJF’s PJ Library and BCHA Celebrate Tu B’Shevat

(Courtesy of UJF) On Sunday morning, January celebrated Tu B’Shevat, the Jewish holiday celebrat- 26, United Jewish Federation’s PJ Library partnered ing the birthday of the trees, by decorating pots and with Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy (BCHA) for a planting a variety of herbs, which they took home. “Winter Warm Up” program which offered fun activi- This free program was held at BCHA and or- ties for the whole family. Over 60 people attended the ganized by Miriam Sperber, director of admissions, event which showcased BCHA’s Maker Space. Families and the early childhood team at BCHA. This event enjoyed a waffle breakfast, story time and crafts. Kids was made possible by UJF, which received a grant from the Harold Grinspoon Foundation, and Priz- mah: Center for Jewish Day Schools.

Children enjoy playtime at the PJ Library/ Young families enjoy a waffle breakfast and crafts in BCHA’s Maker Space. BCHA Winter Tu B’Shevat program. PJ Library Story & Play me NEW

3/17, 4/21, 5/19, 6/9 • 9:30-10:00am Families learn about Tu B’Shevat and how to plant herbs. Library, 1035 Newfield Ave, (JCC) Stamford PJ Library invites you to drop in to hear a story and enjoy play time. Mark your calendars for the next PJ Library/ For ages 3 & under with a parent or caregiver. BCHA joint program, entitled “A Hollywood Pu- Free monthly program. rim,” which will be held on March 8 at 3:00 p.m. For more information about UJF’s PJ Library, For questions contact Sharon Franklin contact Sharon Franklin at [email protected]. To at [email protected] or 203-321-1373 ext. 109 Nicole Mokovsky reads a PJ Library learn more about BCHA, contact Miriam Sperber at BYOT - Bring Your Own Toys story to the group. [email protected]. MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 22 The New Jewish Voice INTERNATIONALPJ LIBRARY NEWS

PJ Library Takes a Jewish Food Journey PJ Library ‘Gets Together’ for Shabbat CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 time with our guests. My grandparents always had people over for Shabbat meals, and I want my kids to do the same one day as well,” said Bahar. His daughters are 8 and 10, and he involved them in the Get Together preparations by having them help with the cooking, set up and clean up. To hold a Get Together, you must be a current subscribing PJ Library or PJ Our Way family (sign up at www.pjlibrary.org). You can host multiple times and receive up to four re- imbursements during the Get Together period, which closes April 30. After your Get Hannah and Lilah set the Shabbat table in anticipation of welcoming their guests. They were both active participants in planning and setting up for their PJ Get Together Shabbat dinner.

(Courtesy of PJ Library) PJ Library’s Get Together gatherings offer a unique way for families raising Jewish children to socialize with friends both new and old. Families can register online and receive $100 towards the Hannah and Lilah's Shabbat table. expense of their gathering. Stamford resident Darren Bahar and his daughters Hannah and Together, simply fill out a brief report and sub- Lilah have hosted a couple of PJ Library Get mit several photos, and you will receive your Togethers, which brought friends together to $100 reimbursement. Besides Shabbat gather- celebrate Shabbat. ings, other Get Together ideas have included “I have enjoyed doing it and will continue Chanukah parties, social action projects and In addition to the scavenger hunt, families learned about the Jewish to do so. I have had quite a few families over to Yom Kippur break the fasts. environmental teaching of baal tashchit, the idea of not being wasteful my home that I wouldn’t normally have, which To read more about PJ Library Get Togeth- or to destroy, and to take care of our planet. Kids decorated a fabric gro- has been fun for both me and my children. I ers or to sign up go to www.pjlibrary.org/get- cery bag they could take home. Families then heard the PJ Library book am also teaching my girls that Shabbat is im- together2020 or contact Sharon Franklin “Something From Nothing,” by Phoebe Gilman. portant. We sang Friday night songs, ate a tra- at [email protected] or 203-321-1373 ext. Thank you to guest reader Robin Fischel, and to the Darien Whole ditional Shabbat dinner and had a really good 109. Foods for being a sponsor of this program. For more information about PJ Library or PJ Our Way, contact Sharon Franklin at [email protected] or 203-321-1373 ext. 109.

INVITE YOU TO A BRAND NEW 3 PART SERIES Pizza & Pajamas

SHABBAT EXPERIENCE Learn all about Shabbat customs, blessings, foods & more. 1st Program: Thursday, March 19th 5:30-6:30pm 1035 Newﬁeld Ave, Stamford Featuring guest educator Sandi Waldstreicher, Educational Coordinator at the JCC Sara Walker Nursery School. Learn about the Friday night Shabbat experience including Prep & dinner…with songs, blessings, dance, crafts & more!

Make your own shabbat candle holders to bring home. $7 per child covers materials & pizza dinner. Sign up for one or come to all 3 programs! Other program dates: April 30th & May 21st Contact Sharon Franklin at [email protected] for more info.

MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 INTERNATIONALTEEN VOICES NEWS The New Jewish Voice 23 Love of Swimming Leads to Chesed

BY MOLLIE HERZ I was so excited there was an organiza- and decided I could continue volunteering. When I was 5, I started to take swim- tion that combined two things I loved to I continue to have that same amazing feel- ming lessons. Three years later I started do, swimming and playing with kids. I got ing every time I get in the pool and know swimming competitively. I loved being in in touch with Ailene Tisser, who is one of that I am helping the kids and the Angel- the water, and participated in swim meets the founders of Swim Angelfish and asked fish program. to improve my time. I thought I would her if I could volunteer in her program to swim competitively for a long time, but af- help raise money for the organization. She Mollie is currently a 10th grader at Stam- ter six years I felt I wanted to expand my was very excited and knew the perfect fam- ford High School. There she is vice president love for water and try something new. ily which the money I raised could help. of the Friendly Faces group which integrates When I was 12 and about to become a Each week I would go to the JCC and help students with special needs into the student bat mitzvah, I knew I had to pick an organ- her with different children. I enjoyed meet- body. She is a part of the student council and ization for my mitzvah project. I was looking all of them and learning about their dif- also participates in programs led by BBYO. ing for something that involved aquat- ferent needs and how I was making a dif- She lives in Stamford with her parents and ics. My mom had told me that there was a ference in their lives. has both an older and younger brother. Mol- Mollie Herz non-profit organization called Swim An- After my bat mitzvah, I was upset that lie loves activities that involve the water, gelfish that comes to the Stamford JCC en and treat people with special needs. I my project was over and I wouldn’t be help- such as swimming, paddle boarding and ca- every Wednesday. Swim Angelfish uses the knew right away that this was what I wanting Swim Angelfish anymore. However, I noeing. Besides activities in water, she also water's therapeutic properties to strength- ed to do. realized that I didn’t have to say goodbye likes to sing and bake.

Reimagining the Jewish Historical Bi-Cultural Upper School Teens Refresh and Society of Fairfield County Recharge at Special Shabbaton BY ELISSA KAPLAN was shown at night on the outside wall (Courtesy of Jewish Histor- of Macy’s. Before there was a mall, ical Society of Fairfield County) there was Pacific Street, the site of many If history is the creative art of docu- family store businesses. Using state of menting and translating the past into the art technology, over 200 people the present and the future, then The came to the Stamford Town Center Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield to see what used to be there. Accord- County is bringing history alive and ing to Lester Sharlach, “Stay tuned this bringing people together. In the past summer for a brand-new documentary year, the Society has produced pro- film: Remembering the Family Store in grams, book talks, a named lecture, and Downtown Stamford: 1940-1965.” a groundbreaking award luncheon. In Eva Weller relates, “Over the past addition, the Archives is the scene of three years, JHSFC has been develop- (Courtesy of BCHA) Students er. The laid-back weekend spent Trencher. “At BCHA Upper School, a modernizing project - digitalizing ing the Mann Lecture, a series of in- at Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy with friends allowed students to we're committed to creating experi- the collections of documents, pho- depth lectures presented by nation- Upper School recently travelled return to campus refreshed and ences, in and out of the classroom, tographs, oral histories, and ephem- ally known speakers on topics of vital to a retreat center in Canaan, New recharged. that develop our students' connec- era. As an almost 100 % volunteer run importance: Remembering Nurem- York for a relaxing shabbaton. "A hallmark of a Jewish edu- tions to each other and to their her- non-profit organization, volunteers berg: What Happened Then and Why The weekend included guest cation is its focus not only on the itage. To have our students come make everything possible. It Matters Now, presented by John Q. speakers, learning opportunities mind but also on the heart and together, from different denomina- JHSFC members take the mission Barrett; Immigration to the US – Myth and lots of games, as well as time soul,” explained BCHA Upper tions, Jewish backgrounds and geo- seriously: “JHSFC strives to build com- and Reality, presented by Dr. Jeffrey S. to relax and bond with one anoth- School principal, Rabbi Shimmy graphic areas, was truly uplifting.” munity through sharing and preserv- Passel; and Seeking Justice and Protect- ing Jewish history, heritage, and cul- ing Human Rights in a Perilous World, ture. We tell the story of the human ex- presented by Roya Hakakian.” perience through Jewish eyes.” Most What’s more, Jonathan Fass re- Chabad of Stamford Boys people do not know that JHSFC is one viewed the book, “Biography of the Tal- of only three Jewish Historical Societies mud” and Dr. Anne Peskin gave the in- Enjoy New Learning Group left in the state of Connecticut. On the side scoop on “Jewish Gangsters.” Plus other hand, JHSFC is one of 20 histor- – Marcie Schoenfeld says, “We always (Courtesy of Chabad of ical societies in Fairfield County, and serve refreshments!” Stamford) Chabad of Stam- the only one to represent Jewish histo- JHSFC has reimagined the socie- ford’s latest initiative for youth ry and create a Jewish presence in Fair- ty for a 2020 vision: becoming the “go was introduced this past Janu- field County. to place” for information about Jew- ary for boys in second to sev- This year brings a new project to ish history; expanding the scope from enth grades. The boys meet light, “Embrace Human Dignity and Stamford to all of Fairfield County; and each Thursday evening at Resilience.” According to Peter Lil- educating people using the most up to Chabad and start the evening ienthal, “We are doing something ex- date means possible. Leah Tillman in- with sports, followed by a par- traordinary - working with our stra- vites everyone, “Come see for yourself; sha and Mishna learning ses- tegic partners to create a platform for visit the Irwin and Vivian Miller Ar- sion, snacks and stories. Each Holocaust and genocide education in chives, 990 Hope Street [Rear], Stam- week’s learning sessions end Connecticut schools. For adults, we ford .” with a raffle and grand prizes. co-sponsored a Kristallnacht film at For more information, contact The classes are free and open the Ferguson Library and a Holocaust The Jewish Historical Society of Fair- to boys and their dads. Remembrance event for International field County, Bridging Yesterday and For more information Holocaust Day at the Fairfield Library.” Tomorrow, by phone: 203-321-1373 on Chabad’s youth programs, Boys at Chabad of Stamford’s newly formed weekly Last spring, a projection art pro- ext.150, by email: [email protected] or please contact youth@stam- learning group. duction, “Remembering Pacific Street,” on-line: http://jhsfc-ct.org/ fordchabad.org. MARCH 2020 • ADAR-NISSAN 5780 The New Jewish Voice 1035 Newfield Ave, Suite 200 Stamford, CT 06905

WE BELIEVE IN EACH OTHER shelter, counsel and rescue thousands Together we can help fulfill their Jewish We believe that no child should go to of people here at home, in Israel and dreams – and yours – whether that bed hungry. That every senior has the around the world. means traveling to Israel, becoming right to live with dignity. And that all a Jewish leader on campus, learning This year, with unemployment levels at Jews should be able to live – anywhere in Hebrew or sending a child to a Jewish historic highs, and families and seniors the world – without fear of persecution. preschool or camp. The Jewish Federation’s annual struggling to meet their most basic fundraising campaign is focused on needs, more people are turning to us THE STRENGTH OF A PEOPLE. helping people in need, rescuing people for help than ever before. And together, THE POWER OF COMMUNITY. we can make an enormous impact. in danger, and keeping Jewish life strong. We believe that helping people in need We have always believed that together and nurturing Jewish community is we can make the world a better place. SUSTAINING JEWISH COMMUNITY our privilege and our responsibility. And we have the track record to prove it. But we need your help. Please make Even as we focus on increased needs a generous donation to the Jewish for humanitarian services, we know Federation’s Annual Campaign today. CARING FOR THE NEEDY that Jews around the world are feeling Consider making a legacy gift to secure Every day, the Jewish Federation renewed excitement about being part the future of the Jewish community. supports programs that feed, clothe, of the Jewish people. And make a stand for what you believe.