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september 2018/elul-tishrei 5778-5779 a publication of United jewish federation of Volume 20, Number 5 Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien Bi-Cultural Day School and Jewish High School Merge New Academy to Serve Pre-K through Grade 12 By Judie Jacobson Connecticut, both of whom played key tural Hebrew Academy, with Erickson est grades straight through high school. After months of planning, two Jewish roles in engineering the agreement. assuming the role of vice president. In addition, she says, “Students will schools in Stamford have announced According to Pitkoff and Erickson, The consolidated school will im- now benefit from a continuum of ed- their merger. the two schools enjoy many similarities: pact both the student body, as well as ucation that provides them with the The Boards of Trustees of Bi-Cul- both have student bodies steeped in the broader Jewish community, notes brightest of futures. The merger is a tural Day School, a national Blue Rib- Torah values and a love for the state Jacqueline Herman, Bi-Cultural Day unique opportunity to offer an excel- bon School serving pre-kindergarten of Israel; and both enjoy innovative School’s longtime head of school lent general and Judaic studies program through grade eight, and the Jewish curriculums, reputations for academic “This is a watershed moment for from pre-K through grade 12. The High School of Connecticut have excellence, legacies of service to the our entire Jewish community,” points powerful impact of Jewish continuity unveiled plans to create one unified community and seek to pass on the out Herman, noting that the merger will be immeasurable.” educational institution. legacy of the Jewish heritage. lays a foundation for the future of the Herman will continue as head of The newly formed Bi-Cultural He- “Our two schools agreed to this Fairfield County Jewish community by school of the newly formed Bi-Cultural brew Academy – the first of its kind in merger because we wanted to build seeking to instill in families considering Hebrew Academy. The high school’s Connecticut – will open its doors this a pre-K through grade 12 school that a move to the area the confidence that principal, Rabbi Elisha Paul, will take fall. At least initially, each school will con- represents the best of our community. their children will have convenient over as the new school’s madriach tinue to operate at its present location. A school committed to educational access to a top-quality, well-rounded, ruchani (spiritual leader). “There has never been a better time excellence and devoted to instilling uninterrupted education from the earli- See “Merge” on page 2 for this alliance to take shape,” say in our children and grandchildren the David Pitkoff, president of Bi-Cultural values, traditions and heritage we share Day School, and Geoffrey Erickson, as a community,” said Pitkoff, who will president of the Jewish High School of serve as president of the new Bi-Cul- Things are “A- Happenin” at Federation Israel Gets Set to Land First Rebooting “NextGen” and More Over the past year, there has been for new ideas, challenging the status Spacecraft on the Moon a great deal of conversation within quo and shaping conversations that By Israel Kasnett contractor Israel Aerospace Industries’ United Jewish Federation of Greater re-imagine strategies, leadership and (JNS) – “Houston, the Eagle has facility on July 10, Israeli nonprofit Stamford, New Canaan and Darien Jewish community in response to landed” will soon be a common refrain company SpaceIL announced its in- about its role in the Jewish com- evolving needs. Federation convenes for Israelis. tention to send Israel’s first unmanned munity resulting in changes taking change makers who share smart While entrepreneur Elon Musk spacecraft into orbit in December place. A new CEO, Diane Sloyer, has practices and resources to create sent one of his Tesla cars into space and, two months later, land it on the come on board, the staff has been more and better opportunities for last year on top of his SpaceX rocket, lunar surface. Israel would then join restructured and programs are being our community.” this year, Musk will help deliver Israel’s the exclusive club of nations that has re-evaluated. According to UJF Pres- Programming relating to the first unmanned lunar spacecraft atop accomplished this feat since the 1960s, ident Ricky Arbron, “A question that Young Leadership Division, which a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket, where it will becoming the fourth nation to land has been at the forefront of my mind has been on hiatus, is one area that assume a course that will take it to its a craft on the moon after Russia, the has been, ‘What is the dream Jewish has had a lot of attention within final destination: the moon. United States and China. community and how can we at UJF Federation. With more new younger At a press conference at defense See “Moon” on page 16 help create it?’ We are a laboratory See “NextGen” on page 15 Candle 2 Bits & Pieces 6 From Schoke 8 Rosh 17 Professional 18 Voices & 18,22 Lighting JFS Hashanah Support Views

Fighting Hunger with Dodgeball United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford New Canaan and Darien’s annual Dodgeball Tournament for Charity, held on August 6 to benefit programs fighting childhood hunger, drew teams from around the Jewish community (pictured above), including Bi-Cultural Day School, Carmel Academy, Temple Beth El and Young Israel of Stamford. See page 14 for further coverage. 2 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ SEPTEMBER 2018 From UJF’s Chief Executive Officer Looking Ahead in the New Year Just a few weeks ago, I decisions and challenges, tunity for participants and volunteers about antisemitism have increased celebrated my one-year an- but, looking back at the last from all parts of our Jewish community and acts of hatred in general are at niversary as CEO of UJF. As I 12 months, I view it as a year to connect to each other and to their an all-time high. In Israel, kite bombs listened to the Jewish songs of progress and communal Jewish roots and values. And beyond have brought a new kind of terrorism being sung by JCC Olami growth that has brought me what WE do, we recognized the im- to the south and beyond. UJF and the summer campers congregat- and the board of Federation portance of the work of our agencies Federation system is there to provide ing outside my office window, a feeling of satisfaction and both local and overseas by allocating relief through respite summer camps, I took great pride in knowing accomplishment. close to $600,000 to fund strategic trauma counseling and emergency as- that UJF granted scholarships With an overhaul of our grants, which support UJF’s mission sistance through the Victims of Terror to enable many of these kids budget and judicious fiscal and vision. Among other things, these Fund. Across the world, there have been to attend camp. Diane Sloyer, management, our Federation grants have helped the JCC fund Camp countless people seeking refuge from It has been a year of tough UJF CEO is providing those in need Scholarships, the shlicha (an emissary violence and war and, unfortunately, with greater resources, while we spend from Israel), Jump Start (a program many have yet to find it. less money on overhead – a win-win. for children with special needs) and Despite all the challenges, as we an- CANDLE UJF’s newspaper, The New Jewish Voice, Senior Adult programs. And at Schoke ticipate the New Year, we draw strength continues to provide a voice and a free JFS, we helped fund programs like the from our collective history and tradi- marketing outlet for our community Kosher Food Pantry, counseling, case tion, knowing that it has always been LIGHTING TIMES organizations. In addition, UJF contin- management and emergency assistance the Jewish way to face adversity and to Aug. 24...... 7:21 pm ues to exclusively fund and manage the funds, camp scholarships and family not just persevere, but to actually thrive. Aug. 31...... 7:10 pm Jewish Community Relations Council; life education programs. Bi-Cultural Living as a Jew and more importantly Sept. 7...... 6:59 pm PJ Library; Kuriansky Teen Tzedakah Day School, Carmel Academy and the as a Jewish community has always been Corps; 3 Square; Shabbat Across Stam- new Jewish High School all receive about coming together to find the best Sept. 9...... 6:55 pm ford, New Canaan and Darien; and a funding towards scholarship assistance path through rough seas; to face the Sept. 10...... after 7:53 pm community Yom Hashoah program. All to promote Jewish education to ensure world and keep moving forward. Sept. 14...... 6:47 pm of these programs help unite our Jewish a Jewish future. In the year ahead, may we continue Sept. 18...... 6:40 pm Community under one umbrella – the For the broader Jewish community, to be strong and strengthen one an- Federation – and provide an oppor- it has been a turbulent year as concerns other – chazak, chazak v’nitchazek. Let’s Sept. 21...... 6:35 pm work together to make “a sweet New Sept. 23...... 6:32 pm Year” not just a greeting, but a reality Sept. 24...... after 7:29 pm Merge Continued from page 1 for ourselves and the world we share. Sept. 28...... 6:23 pm “We see a future that captures the us as we begin the process of pooling Wishing you and your families a year best of who we are – from Einstein to all our talents and resources to create filled with health, peace and joy! Sept. 30...... 6:20 pm Maimonides, from biblical Israel to something extraordinary.” Shana Tova, Oct.1...... after 7:17 pm start-up nation,” says Pitkoff. “Togeth- Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy is a Diane Sloyer Oct. 5...... 6:11 pm er, from our home here in Stamford recipient agency of United Jewish Federation CEO Oct. 12...... 6 pm to our home in Israel, we hope that of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and United Jewish Federation of Greater everyone will come together and join Darien. Stamford, New Canaan and Darien Your ad should be here! no matter how you look at it... To ad vert is e,

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bo lo yer@ nni e@ uj th f. or erep g or terg ro up .o rg SEPTEMBER 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 3 COMMUNITY NEWS JCC Run/Walk Benefits Children with Special Needs Everyone is invited to take part in the JCC’s 11th Relate, social groups that provide youths with a values of welcoming guests, kindness, respect and Annual Give a Child a JumpStart 5K/10K Run/Walk structured and safe environment to develop social communal responsibility.” on Labor Day, Monday, September 3. This event has skills and build relationships; and a variety of music, Runners and walkers will leave from the JCC, locat- consistently received the support of The Herbert movement, sports and arts programs and classes for ed at 1035 Newfield Ave., for a family-friendly route and Sarah M. Gibor Charitable Foundation and youths with special needs. in the Pepper Ridge section of Stamford. Strollers Auslander Kasindorf Group/Keller Williams Realty, “Our programs welcome individuals of all ages, are welcome and there will be water stations along and is organized and led by The Center Women of faiths, abilities and backgrounds, and the JCC pro- the way. For the safety of all participants, no bikes, the Stamford Jewish Community Center. vides substantial scholarships for those with financial skates, scooters or animals (other than service ani- Rain or shine, participants of all ages will raise need. The Run/Walk will help provide the funding mals) are permitted. Bikes and scooters are permitted funds for JumpStart, a therapeutic early childhood necessary to continue and expand these much for participants with special needs. classroom experience for 2-year-olds with special needed programs for our extended community,” Check-in will begin at 8:30 am and the Run/ needs; Hand in Hand (Yad B’Yad), a division of said Beth Baer, co-president of The Center Wom- Walk will start at 9 am. The event is certified by USA Day Camps@The J, offering a summer experience en. “We believe that each individual enriches our Track and Field, and the run portion of the race is for children with a variety of needs; Recreate and JCC community, and this belief upholds the Jewish professionally timed. The fee to enter the Run/Walk is $36 per adult/$18 per child ages 6 to 18. Children 5 and under are free. Online registration for the JCC Run/Walk is The U.S., Israel and the Middle East available at www.stamfordjcc.org, or contact Sheryl Hoffman Lecture Features Bret Stephens Young at [email protected] for more informa- tion. Families and local businesses can also support For the first time in the history of the Brussels. In January 2002, he was named JumpStart and the inclusion programs at the JCC by annual Hoffman lecture, a previous speak- editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Post, a posi- becoming sponsors of this communitywide event. er, Bret Stephens, will again be the guest tion he assumed at age 28. He returned to JumpStart is a recipient of a grant from United Jewish speaker. On Thursday, September 27, at the Journal in late 2004. He has reported Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. 7:30 pm, at Temple Beth El, Stephens will stories from around the world, including discuss “The U.S., Israel and the Middle Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iraq, Lebanon and East – Where is it All Going?” Gaza, and has interviewed dozens of world Stephens became an op-ed columnist leaders. In June 2017, he became a regular Deadlines for and associate editor for The New York Times political analyst for MSNBC. in April 2017. Before that, he spent 11 The lecture will be followed by a ques- articles years as the author of “Global View,” the Bret Stephens tion-and-answer period. For further infor- The deadlines for the next three issues of The foreign-affairs column of The Wall Street mation, call the synagogue at 203-322-6901, New Jewish Voice are: Journal, for which he was awarded the Pulitzer Prize ext. 300, or e-mail [email protected]. Monday, August 27...... October for distinguished commentary in 2013. He also served As with all the Hoffman lectures, the public is Thursday, September 27...... November eight years as the Journal’s deputy editorial-page edi- invited to attend without charge. A dessert reception Monday, October 29...... December tor, responsible for the newspaper’s global opinion will follow the lecture. Send New Jewish Voice article submissions to section, as well as a member of the editorial board. The lecture is sponsored by the family of the late Sandy Golove at [email protected] marked “Stamford Stephens began his career at The Wall Street Hyacinthe and Harold E. Hoffman, former members Voice” in the subject line. Expect an acknowledge- Journal in 1998 as an editor in New York, and later of TBE and the Stamford community, who were ment; please re-send if you do not receive one. wrote editorials and articles for the newspaper from dedicated to many civic and Jewish causes.

Schoke JFS Brain Fitness Program May you and your family Opens Registration have a sweet New Year By Lynn Saltz to find multiple ways to problem solve and approach Schoke Jewish Family Service will offer a Brain tasks can improve mental flexibility, as well. The ses- Fitness program that targets a variety of cognitive sions are designed for a range of ages and abilities, areas to help stimulate the brain. Memory skills, vi- which can be adjusted based on the participants. sual-spatial skills, organizational skills and attention The next sessions of Brain Fitness will take place are some of the cognitive areas that the program will at the Stamford JCC. Those interested in attending address, with the goal of providing a mental workout can sign up for a three-session set or for an individual for the brain. Facilitated by Dr. Toby Lazarus, group class on Mondays, 10:30 am-noon: sessions will be offered at the Jewish Community Session #1: Center and individual sessions will be available in ‹‹ October 15 – Organization and Planning ~ Your most affordable choice ~ individuals’ homes. ‹‹ October 22 – Memory-Word Finding “These interactive programs, engage the mind in ‹‹ October 29 – Visual Spatial Skills O thoughtful ways,” said Lazarus. “Word play, puzzles, Session #2: Thomas is the son of the former owner of memory games, and problem-solving activities can ‹‹ November 26 – Logic Leo P. Gallagher Funeral Home enhance your brainpower and are fun ways to chal- ‹‹ December 3 – Language and Memory 453 S S C 06902 lenge yourself.” ‹‹ December 10 – Perception 2033599999 C 2039125454 855 817 0097 Strategies for improving skills will also be discussed The cost for JCC members is $20 and for non-mem- W during these sessions, and participants will share bers $25 for a three-session set. *Not affiliated with Leo P. Gallagher and Son* which techniques they find most effective. Being able See “Brain”on page 10

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www.DentalCareKids.com www.DentalCareOralCareOrtthodontics.chodontics.com 203.883.4457 Call Today for New Patient Special O ers! 1500 Summer St., Stamford, CT ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 4 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ SEPTEMBER 2018 Success in Spring Women’s Philanthropy of United Jewish Federa- tion of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien held its annual Spring Dinner in late May and hosted close to 200 women for this annual event. Chaired by Allison Greenbaum and Toby Lazarus and Auction At right: Dinner Chairs Jill Kaplan, Chairs Wendy Handler, Jill Kaplan and Robin Madan, Robin Madan, Toby Lazarus, Allison the evening was an overwhelming success, according Greenbaum and Wendy Handler to Women’s Philanthropy President Tara Shapiro. received a well-deserved round of “The room was full of women of all ages, the flowers applause from the attendees. were gorgeous, the food delicious and guest speaker, Dara Horn, was phenomenal. It was an honor to be among so many awesome women. UJF also thanks its caring and generous sponsors including Damsel Fly De- signs, Mrs. Bloom’s, TD Bank and Karp’s Ace Hardware, Union Street Carpet, and Bev Max,” shared Shapiro.

At left: full house was entertained by author Dara Horn (not shown).

Three generations of Waldstreicher women – Sandi, Audrey and Rachel – enjoyed a night with United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. Volunteers Make a Difference This past May, more than 60 Herbert and Sarah M. Gibor Reading Partners and supporters gathered for the annual end of year Volunteer Ap- preciation Breakfast. The keynote speaker was children’s au- thor Tish Rabe, who entertained the au- dience with tales of her career, samples of her work and even a Speaker Tish Rabe entertained the little song and dance. audience with tales of her career. Other highlights of the event included Ed Smith, Gibor Foundation trustee, telling the history of the Gibor Foundation’s association with Reading Partners, and Ellen Weber recognizing past Reading Partner’s Director Marlyn Agatstein’s dedication and contributions to the pro- gram’s success. The year wrapped up with each school celebrating its Reading Partners with an end of year party, certifi- cates and a new book for each child who participated in and completed the program. The summer of 2018 marked 19 years that Reading Partners has served the Stamford community. “I am so excited to be planning for the milestone 20th year of the program,” said Lenore Fogel, Reading Partner’s director. “ We have some new and exciting initiatives in conjunction with the Stamford public schools that I hope will make the program even more successful.” See “Volunteers” on page 14 Daniel Benjamin Alex Troyb Beth Boyer of Benjamin, Gold & Troyb, P.C. wish all the members of our community a happy & healthy New Year. L’Shanah Tovah Tikatevu!

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R T of H 1 O E N E T W A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC SEPTEMBER 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 5 Creating Future Connecting to Israel with Reading Philanthropists Literacy Kuriansky Teen Tzedakah The United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, ture socio-economic success. Israel Connect has New Canaan and Darien is committed to strength- proved to be an effective way to teach English and Corps Application Now Open ening its connection to Israel and continues to look the majority of the program’s participants have By Jessie Katz for ways to connect and partner with its sister region, reached 90 percent on their English proficiency The Kuriansky Teen Tzedakah Corps, a program of Afula/Gilboa. exam. “This seems like a promising and exciting United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Toward that end, UJF is launching a new program opportunity for volunteers and an outstanding Canaan and Darien, is a teen philanthropic leader- called Israel Connect in the local community. Vol- program for Israeli students. We fund so many ship program designed to train the next generation unteers from the local area would partner with high amazing programs in the region but this provides of community philanthropists. Applications are now school students in the Afula-Gilboa region, building a a unique and special opportunity for the people open for rising 10th-12th grade students. “living bridge” (gesher) to help further the education to people connection,” according to Diane Sloyer, Each month of the academic year, participants meet of students living there. CEO, UJF. over dinner to explore the fundamentals of philanthro- Israel Connect is a program that works in col- The commitment would require a 45-minutes-per- py, engage with community guest speakers and visit local laboration with Israel’s Ministry of Education to week meeting with a student during the morning nonprofit organizations. The importance of training advance learning of the English language via video hours. (The seven-hour time difference does not to become a community philanthropist resonated with conferencing. allow for afternoon or evening conversations.) A 2017-2018 corps member Tamar Cohen, who stated, Through the program, high school students in simple curriculum is provided to mentors and the “When given the responsibility to donate money, it is Israel connect with volunteers across North America lesson plans always include time for informal chatting important to understand the donors intentions so that to provide Israeli students with an English immersion and conversation. the money is used for its maximum impact.” experience. The connection to Israel – “the bridge” Consider joining more than 400 volunteers A core component of the program is a matching – is considered a bonus. throughout North America who are already making gift-driven fund-raising process, courtesy of a gift from English proficiency is considered important for a difference. Anyone interested in sharing this learn- the Louis J. Kuriansky Family Foundation. For six years, Israeli students as it is the key to post-secondary ed- ing opportunity with students in the Afula-Gilboa the foundation has dedicated funds to this program ucation. One-third of Israel’s university entrance region should e-mail Judy Weinberg, UJF’s director to introduce teens to philanthropy and foster leader- exam is based on English proficiency. Access to of outreach, engagement and community relations ship skills and Jewish values. “It was awe inspiring to proper English education is correlated with fu- at [email protected]. see participants become creative fund-raisers and to see these teens go on site visits and really investigate organizations before making grants. Jewish commu- nities around the world will benefit from these future JCC Membership Open House philanthropists,” said Ricky Arbron, UJF president. On Sunday, September 16, from 10 am-2 pm, the day options, as well as after school program and Recruitment is well underway for the 2018-2019 co- community is invited to attend the Jewish Community enrichment classes.” hort. Candidates for this group of teen leaders must be Center’s Membership Open House. There will be incentives for new members who join entering 10th-12th grade, live in Stamford/New Canaan/ “It’s the perfect opportunity to get to know the on or before the open house, including friends and Darien and have leadership experience. The 2018-19 J,” said Ilene Madwed, JCC managing director of family discounts. Current JCC members who refer cohort will meet once a month during the academic year. membership services. “The community is invited new members will benefit from a rewards program. To apply, visit https://ujf.org/jewish-communi- to tour our extensive facilities and get the latest For information, contact Madwed at 203-487-0945 or ty-relations-council/kuriansky-teen and submit an information on new offerings for the fall semester. 322-7900, or e-mail [email protected]. application by Friday, August 31. For more informa- At the J, we have 60 group fitness classes per week, The JCC is located on Newfield Avenue, at the tion, contact Jessie Katz at [email protected]. an updated fitness center with certified personal intersection of Vine Road in Stamford. Jessie Katz is the director of the Kuriansky Teen Tzedakah trainers, and a renovated pool and gymnasium. The JCC is a recipient agency of United Jewish Federation Corps. In addition, there are full-day childcare and half- of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien.

ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 6 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ SEPTEMBER 2018 bits and pieces By Sandy Golove Lindsay and Jacob Sigel on the birth Vivian Weiss and Howard Weiss on Bennet Katzin, son of Heather and To submit infor- of a daughter, Emerson Blake Sigel; the marriage of their son, Daniel Weiss, Marc Katzin; grandparents are Sandra mation to Bits and grandparents are Eileen and Billy Green- to Cheryl Lauren Spigler. and Michael Kamen. Pieces, call 203-912- span, and Sharon and Tom Wieken. Sandi and Stu Waldstreicher on the Jacob Kuinin, son of Susan and Len 9945, or e-mail me at Miriam and Josh Sperber on the marriage of their son, Bradley Wald- Kunin. [email protected]. birth of a daughter; grandparents are streicher, to Annie Zagha, daughter of Jacob Silver, son of Anna and Steven Mazel Tov TO Linda and Jack Lehrer, and Orit and Alissa and Sammy Zagha; grandmother Silver. GROWING FAMILIES: Julien Sperber. is Audrey Waldstreicher. Eli Steinerman, son of Rachel and Dorothy Abrams Amy and Sam Sroka on the birth MAZEL TOV TO: Joshua Steiner; grandparents are Gail and Adam Levinson on the birth of of a son; grandparents are Ilya and James Aminoff on winning gold and Bob Loonin. a son; grandparents are Margie and Elaine Kohen, and Rochelle and Louis at the Australian Gymnastics Nation- Kayla Wilen, daughter of Michelle Bob Abrams, and Sally Wasserman Sroka; great-grandparents are Claire als; grandparents are Ruth and Mel and Adam Wilen; grandparents are and Henry Hecht; great-grandmother and Larry Gochman, Zelina “Anene” Aminoff. Linda and Joe Rothman. is Rita Edelston. Kohen and Lillian Neidich. Joshua Appel, son of Jeri and Mark CONDOLENCES TO: Jessica and Adam Barkin on the Tzivy and Seth Steinmetz on the Appel, on becoming an Eagle Scout. Amy Fishkow Benjamin on the loss birth of a son. birth of a son; grandparents are Liba Jim Benjamin for receiving the of her father, Harold Fishkow. Aliza and Chazan Rafael Bokow on and Steven Steinmetz. George and Ziporah Freedberg Excel- Jonathan Fass on the loss of his the birth of a daughter; grandparents Lexi Kraus Sternberg and Marc lence in Spirit Award from Congrega- father, Robert Fass. are Gital and Rabbi Avigdor Bokow, Sternberg on the birth of a son, Zach- tion Agudath Sholom. Helen Felder on the loss of her and Margie and Larry Nussbaum. ary Brett Sternberg; grandparents are Michal Fass for receiving second father-in-law, Marvin Felder. Nikki and Matt Feinberg on the Kathy and Howard Kraus. place in the Rabbi Alex J. Goldman n Robert S. Fields, Andrea Fields, birth of a boy; grandmothers are Karen Amanda Warren and Scott Strother Memorial Essay Contest. Ellen Fields, Kate Fields and Steven Feinberg and Nancy White. on the birth of a daughter, Zoe Eliza- Keith Friedman for receiving the JCC Fields, and Jane Flax Lewis on the loss Shira and Reuven Fischer on the beth Strother; grandparents are Cindy Volunteer of the Year Award. of his wife, their mother and her sister, birth of a daughter. and Steven Warren. Alyssa Goldberg for receiving the Joan Flax Fields. Joanna and Mark Frank on the birth Leah and Bruce Tillman on the birth Temple Beth El Fred Weisman Tikkun Paul Franks on the loss of his father, of a son, Samuel David Frank. of a granddaughter. Olam Award. David Franks. Kayla Freeborn and Peter Rosen- Rachel and Michael Weinstein on the Joy Katz on becoming the next JCC Adam Furmansky on the loss of his thal on the birth of a daughter, Da- birth of a son; grandparents are Rivka president. grandfather, Alvin Mishkin. kota Faye Rosenthal; grandmother is and Rabbi David Walk. Amber Kitay, daughter of Liz and Gary Gepner on the loss of his step- Linda Simon. Gabriella Zur and Raviv Jackier on the Marc Kitay, who graduated magna cum mother, Shirley Gepner. Dana and Jason Greenman on the birth of a daughter; grandparents are laude from the University of Arizona; Jonathan Gordon on the loss of his birth of a daughter, Carly Samantha Pam Ehrenkranz and Matt Greenberg. grandparents are Marsha and Ed stepfather, Jerry Kaye. Greenman; grandparents are Denise MAZEL TOV ON Engagements/ Greenberg and Nancy Kitay. Amber Zimra Gordon on the loss of her and David Greenman, and Ilene and Marriages/Anniversaries: was in the first graduating class of the mother, Esther Gordon. Bert Madwed. Adrienne and Michael Alexander on Jewish High School of Connecticut. Caryl Greatorex, David Schiff and Erica and William Kraypohl on the marriage of their daughter, Lizzie Rachel Klein, daughter of Allison Marc Schiff on the loss of their mother, the birth of a daughter, Talia Amber Alexander, to Eli Reichner. and Gary Klein, graduated with Myra M. Fass Schiff. Kraypohl; grandparents are Judy and Rochel and Hecky Attar on the mar- distinction from the University of Ellen Harris and Jennifer Kramer Bob Amster. riage of their daughter, Shana Attar, Virginia. on the loss of her husband and her Shari and Ari Levine on the birth to Tomer Mangoubi; grandmother is Elie Kligman, son of Leah and stepfather, Mark Evens. of a son; grandparents are Betty and Yospa Lieberman. Marc Kligman, on his many baseball Karen Jablon, Michael Jablon and Irwin Keller, and Laya and Bernard Penny and Stephen Block on the achievements. Among those, Eli threw Barbara Reese on the loss of their Levine; great-grandmother is Sarah engagement of their son, Stanley Block, a 7-inning complete no hitter game mother, Roslyn Jablon. Kestenbaum. to Gabrielle Haar, daughter of Ashera in his second career varsity start – the Amanda Jermyn, Adrian Katz, Anton Jessica and Eliaz Niedober on the and Jeffrey Haar. only known no-hitter by a freshman in Katz and Joanne Zeger on the loss of birth of a daughter; grandparents are Shirley Firestein on the marriage of Nevada state history. His grandparents their mother, Ray Katz. Sherry and Bennet Kfare. her grandson, Gus Firestein, to Taryn are Nancy and Harry Kligman. Sharon Karp, Deborah Wolfsohn Naomi and Daniel Newman on Brandes. Shira Nerenberg and Alissa Weisser and David Wolfsohn on the loss of their the birth of a daughter, Eva Abigail Meryl and David Gordon on the on receiving the George and Ziporah father, Dr. Alfred Wolfsohn. Newman; grandparents are Rose and marriage of their son, Daniel Gordon, Freedberg Hineni Award from Con- Diane Klein on the loss of her cousin, Bruce Newman. to Lea Winter; grandmother is Regina gregation Agudath Sholom. Eliot Silverstone. Sara Malka and Avi Petrushka Greenwald. Barbara Novak, Anne Peskin and Emily Klein on the loss of her broth- on the birth of a son; grandparents Emily Hernberg and Mike Belanger Eileen Rosner on being honored by the er, Elliot Darer. are Diana and Rabbi Daniel Cohen; on their engagement. Israel Cancer Research Fund for their Evelyn Kucker, Susan Peyser and great-grandparents are Meryl and Sherry Hertzberg on the marriage lifetime of community work and chesed. Peggy Thompson on the loss of her Rabbi Herbert Cohen. of her son, Ari Hertzberg, to Deborah Craig Price for receiving the Bi-Cul- husband and their father, Marvin Deena and Eli Schaffer on the birth Ellerton. tural Day School Young Leadership Harvard Kucker. of a son, Jude Truden Schaffer; grand- Maggie and Bernie Levy on their Award. Vince Lanci on the loss of his mother, parents are Shari and Allen Glucksman. 50th wedding anniversary. Melanie Roloff and Marisa Young Patricia S. Stabile. Adina and Ari Shrage on the birth Cindy and David Pitkoff on the en- for receiving the Temple Beth El Teen Ari Lefkovits on the loss of his father, of a daughter; grandparents are Rose gagement of their son, Joshua Pitkoff, Volunteer Award. Dr. Alfred Lefkovits. and Bruce Newman. to Ada Rauch, daughter of Susan and Celia Rosen for receiving third place Barbara Messer on the loss of her Lauren Rauch. in the Rabbi Alex J. Goldman Memorial mother, Eleanor Sutker. Sharon and Steven Ritz on the en- Essay Contest. Frieda Nassau Chaleff Reitman, UJF Tribute Cards are a gagement of their son, Joshua Ritz, to Liz Ethan Sausville, son of Lisa and Madeline Chaleff, Norman Chaleff, wonderful way to connect Keller; and to grandparents Ellen Hyams- David Sausville, on becoming an Eagle Marc Reitman, Randa Reitman and with your family and friends Abrams and Sandy and Fred Golove. Scout; grandmother is Anne Peskin. Beverly Rudman on the loss of her hus- Roz and Mitchel Rubin on the mar- Ashley Shapiro for receiving first band and their father, Julian Reitman. and mark any occasion while riage of their daughter, Arielle Rubin, place in the Rabbi Alex J. Goldman Gary Neems on the loss of his father, supporting the extraordinary to Matthew Gofstein. Memorial Essay Contest. Seymour Neems. work of UJF. To send a tribute, Ellen and Richard Weber on the en- Samuel Terr, son of Marilyn and Irwin Niedober and Eileen Fruchter gagement of their son, Michael Weber, Adam Terr, on becoming an Eagle on the loss of their mother, Marilyn go to www.ujf.org. to Jacklyn Mahgerefteh, daughter of Scout. Niedober. Moussa and Parvaneh Mahgerefteh. Gail G. and Stephen Trell for re- Michael Pollack on the loss of his ceiving the Schoke JFS Mitzvah Award. sister, Cheryl Shafer. Sheryl Young for receiving the JCC’s Judy Rothstein and Lisa Rothstein Hyacinthe and Harold E. Hoffman on the loss of her husband and her Humanitarian Award. father, Howard Rothstein. MAZEL TOV TO B’NAI MITZVAH: Meredith Scheine on the loss of her Congregation Agudath Sholom mother, Susan Schultz. Adult b’not mitzvah: Marilyn Altman, Jackie Shiff on the loss of her father, Lior Krinsky, Carol Lilienthal and Marcel Smigel. Shushannah Yasgur. Walter Shuchatowitz (Mr. S.) on Malcolm Fenster, son of Nathasha the loss of his brother, Yehoshua and Joel Fenster; grandparents are Shuchatowitz. Madeline and Sol Field. Gen and Murph Weingrad on the loss Max Fink, son of Michele Haiken of their son, Lewis Weintraub. and Ephraim Fink. Gail Weis, Mia Weinstein, Adam Weis Elisha David Gewanter, son of Batya and Miriam Krikler on the loss of her and Richard Gewanter; grandmother husband, their father and her brother, is Arline Gewanter. Roney Weis. Isabelle Kanefsky, daughter of Re- Karen White and Deborah White on bekah and Brian Kanefsky. the loss of their father, Dr. Jules White.

Please support our advertisers, and tell them you saw their ad here in SEPTEMBER 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 7 Schoke Jewish Family Preparing for the Service Volunteer Lunch Inevitable Schoke Jewish Family Service hon- food distribution for Rosh Hashanah, Rabbi Elchonon Zohn, A light breakfast will be ored its volunteers at Soosh restaurant. Thanksgiving and Passover; weekly the founder and director of served before the program The guests received certificates of Shabbat meal delivery; and many other the National Association of begins, and there will be time appreciation along with a flowering services provided to the residents of 15 Chevra Kadisha (or NASCK), for questions-an-answers after plant. Schoke JFS could not fulfill its towns across Fairfield County. To volun- and who often addresses the presentation. mission without a dedicated group teer with Schoke JFS, contact Jonathan Jewish groups on end-of-life In addition to his duties of volunteers, who are involved with Fass at Schoke JFS at 203-921-4161 or issues, will be the featured at NASCK, Rabbi Zohn is the Kosher Food Pantry; coat drives; e-mail [email protected]. speaker at a community the director of the Vaad program at the Jewish Com- Harabonim of Queens Jewish munity Center of Stamford Burial Society, and fields doz- on Sunday, October 14, from Rabbi Elchonon Zohn ens of questions each month 10 am-noon. on Jewish burial from people The program is titled “Preparing throughout the world. He has been the for the Inevitable” and will focus on advisor of the Stamford Chevra Kadisha end-of-life issues such as hospice/ for the past two decades. palliative care, caring for elderly par- The program is being co-sponsored ents, wills, purchasing burial plots, by Chabad Lubavitch of Fairfield pre-need vs. at-need, and Jewish County, Chavurat Aytz Chaim, Con- burial practices. gregation Agudath Sholom, Temple “Most people don’t like to discuss Beth El, Temple Sinai, United Jewish issues related to death and dying until Federation of Greater Stamford, New they are immediately faced with the Canaan and Darien, and Young Israel issue,” said Michael Feldstein, a board of Stamford. member of the Stamford Chevra “I’m delighted that all of the syna- Kadisha (Jewish burial society) and gogues in our community realize the im- the chair of the program. “However, portance of this program, and have agreed it’s much better to deal with these to co-sponsor the event,” said Feldstein. L-r: Lois Meyer, Schoke JFS case manager; Matt Greenberg, Schoke JFS CEO; Rebekah issues before one is forced to, as many No reservations are necessary. The Kanefsky, Schoke JFS case management; Lisa Rich, Schoke JFS donor relations coordinator; folks are not in the best emotional program is free and open to the entire Beverly Stein, president of the board of Schoke JFS; Cathy Sachs; Meryl Japha; Jeri Appel; state if they are experiencing a ter- community. For more information, Liz Kitay; Jill Knopoff; Gail G. Trell; and Jonathan Fass, Schoke JFS COO. (Photo by minal illness or if they have just lost contact Feldstein at michaelgfeld- Erika Gadson) a loved one.” [email protected]. Soosh Partners with Friendship Circle Soosh, Stamford’s kosher sushi are pleased to have the opportu- to the special needs community. restaurant located in the Crowne Plaza nity to give back by coaching and Rica had this advice for other hotel, has recently partnered with the mentoring our special needs staff. businesses that might be interested in Friendship Circle of Fairfield County in ... It is so incredibly heartwarming building a similar program. “There is a new initiative. Store owners Rica and to witness the special needs staff no reason why a person with disabil- Ari Lieberman were inspired on a visit finish a new task and be so proud ities cannot be the right person for a to Detroit when they ate at Soul Café, of their accomplishments and job. Hiring adults with special needs a restaurant that was partially staffed contributions. It’s honestly very is not only the right thing to do, it is by adults with special needs as a part heartwarming all around.” good for business. The question is of that city’s Friendship Circle. The The special needs employees at not whether to hire employees with two entrepreneurs decided that they Soosh are known for their engage- special needs. The question is really would like to build a similar program ment and motivation. “They enhance why not?” in their own restaurant based on the everyone’s work environment with For more information about the Detroit model. their enthusiasm and positive atti- Friendship Circle, visit www.Friend- Soosh employs adults with special tude,” says Rica. “The quality of their shipCT.com. For more information needs in a manner that is customized to Tal Cohen-Weinberg was hard at work work is excellent and there has been about Soosh, visit www.SooshCT.com. each participant’s skill set and amount preparing cutlery. almost no turnover in this group.” The Friendship Circle is a beneficiary of time available to work. The program Soosh is planning to continue and agency of United Jewish Federation of Greater is flexible and ranges from one employ- ing take-out bags with basic necessities; expand the opportunities available Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. ee who works several times a week for and branding the bags with the store’s several hours a day, to participants who logo, etc. One employee, who is known work once a month for a few hours at for an artistic talent, is now in charge a time. of the artwork for the store’s Shabbat The Friendship Circle participants package packaging. help with a variety of tasks. These in- When asked about the rapport clude, but are not limited to, stocking between the Soosh employees and most take-out items, including soft the Friendship Circle participants, drinks, paper goods, sauces, etc.; stock- Rica said, “Our Soosh employees

ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 8 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ SEPTEMBER 2018 from schoke jewish family service Indeed: More than Just a Job Search Engine By Ilene K. Locker search, research on companies, salary electronic devices. Likewise, in today’s If you are looking for work or think- comparisons and job market analysis dynamic workplace: ing about changing jobs or careers, are and trends. ‹‹ Stay abreast of new trends and tech- you considering the following: One-on-one consultations gave nology in your field. ‹‹ Are you having problems with em- participants the opportunity to create ‹‹ Continue to learn - attend seminars, ployment websites? or update existing Indeed accounts take courses, and keep any relevant ‹‹ Have you decided what type of work and learn the correct way to search, certifications and licenses current. you want and how to identify it online? upload and forward resumes to com- ‹‹ Affiliate with appropriate profes- ‹‹ Are you wondering how to distin- panies of choice. Those with estab- sional organizations. guish yourself from other applicants? lished accounts could work with the We are fortunate to have Indeed ‹‹ Do you know how to upload your Job Squad to fine tune their profiles based in Stamford. The company’s resume? Two men at the Indeed Job Squad workshop. and learn how to maximize the site’s generosity, exemplified by its Job ‹‹ Are you wondering about the ne- (Names held on request.) effectiveness. Squad outreach, enables Schoke JFS cessity of providing a profile picture? Regardless of whether you are clients to benefit from its extensive Many of our clients gained valuable and tips on how to best maneuver re-entering the workforce, seeking to experience connecting people to new insight on how to grapple with these through Indeed’s online site, as well change jobs, or merely “testing the opportunities each day. If you would issues when Indeed’s Job Squad team, as addressing precautions to ensure waters,” there are many factors that like to attend a similar workshop, con- comprised of staff volunteers, conduct- site security. Aside from the actual jobs influence successful outcomes. It is vital tact Ilene K. Locker at 203-921-4161 or ed a recent workshop here at Schoke available aspect, Indeed offers a wealth to cultivate and maintain your networks [email protected]. Providing there is Jewish Family Service. of information in regards to career since 75-80 percent of jobs are filled sufficient demand, Indeed has agreed Presenters provided an overview advice, tools for organizing a career from within or by word of mouth. A to an encore engagement. majority of positions never even appear Ilene K. Locker is the Schoke JFS director on job boards! Logic dictates that a fair of employment and training services. proportion of your time needs to be Schoke Jewish Family Service is a recipient Carmel Academy Students devoted to relationship building; take agency of United Jewish Federation of Greater Win Top Honors a deep breath and step away from the Stamford, New Canaan and Darien remembering times past Sara Walker (1921-2006), Strong and Proud Educator By Larry Ginsberg JCC Nursery School from 1957 until her Sara Walker (1921-2006) inspired retirement as a director in 1991. Each countless nursery school students, student was special to Sara because each teachers, administrators, summer had individual needs and abilities to be campers and staff for 34 years, and nurtured. Sara was committed to giving never forgot a name or a face. Children every child the love and caring “to make loved and were inspired by this remark- them feel good about themselves.” She able educator who certainly gave love strived to transmit to our children those away. Many a young parent watched values that she believed were necessary Seven Carmel Academy students placed in the top 10 percent in the international Math teary eyed on the first day of nursery for them to succeed in life. Perhaps Olympiad Competition. Pictured (l-r) are the five Carmel students who were the overall school as their child walked hand in Rabbi Stephen Pearce said it best in winners for their respective grades: fourth-grader Jacob Lebwohl, fifth-grader Nathan Toback, hand with Sara without looking back. his eulogy for Sara on November 19, sixth-grader Adina Ament, seventh-grader Sophie Citron and eighth-grader Ben Levy. In Children and families were mesmerized 2006: “Sara stood rooted in the very addition to the school’s overall winners, sixth-graders Lily Lebwohl and Yishama Orlow also by Sara Walker’s love and caring. best values, giving shade and shelter to ranked in the top 10 percent internationally. The students competed in five competitions There was something special about her family, reaching out in embrace to throughout the academic year, testing their knowledge in complex math word problems. Sara Walker. She touched the lives of our her students and friends….” community. We are all – students, parents, Upon Sara’s retirement in 1991, the colleagues and friends – richer because JCC Nursery School became the Sara Sara was a significant part of our lives. Walker JCC Nursery School. To this t g f Sara was born in Romania in 1921. day, the school “continues to honor Rosh Hashanah Gree in s rom When she was an infant, her parents Sara’s memory and carry on her vision Judith Roll, Chef/Owner immigrated to Mandatory Palestine. to provide the highest quality of early There she experienced the years of childhood education.” Sara Walker struggle for a Jewish existence in our died from the effects of Parkinson’s homeland. She became a British soldier disease on November 16, 2006. She was serving in Egypt and achieving the survived by her two sons, her daughter- rank of sergeant. In 1939, she met the in-law and three grandchildren. Her • 203.504.8888 • love of her life, James Walker, a Scots husband, James, predeceased her. In BULL’S HEAD PLAZA - 59 HIGH RIDGE RD., soldier serving with the British Army 2007, one of Sara’s granddaughters, STAMFORD, CT 06905 • 203.890.9999 • in Egypt. They married in Mandatory Carrie, stated, “She was the strongest, 927 HIGH RIDGE RD., Palestine in 1944. The Walkers moved proudest woman I have ever known.” • 203.292.9788 • STAMFORD, CT 06905 3381 POST RD., SOUTHPORT, CT 06890 to Edinburgh, Scotland, and emigrated Our community has benefitted from tabouligrill.com judysbarandkitchen.com to the United States during the winter of Sara’s strength, pride and belief in the 1949-1950. Sara became a U.S. citizen, education of our children. “ ” "...the best Israeli food outside of Israel." pure Americana! and she, James and their two young sons Larry Ginsberg is a board member of the moved to Stamford in 1956. Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield County. Sara Walker was an educator: a teach- The Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield er in one of Palestine’s first Montessori County is a recipient agency of United schools, a Hebrew teacher in New York Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New and ultimately our beloved leader of the Canaan and Darien.

File photo of Sara Walker with unidentified preschool children. SEPTEMBER 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 9 10 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ SEPTEMBER 2018 Family Store: Downtown Stamford 1940-1965 Groundbreaking Exhibit Under Construction By Elissa Kaplan town Stamford during 1940-1965. These dates were Some may ask, where did the earliest Jewish Stam- The Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield County chosen because, according to The Samuel Koenig ford business owners come from? In Colonial times, strives to build community through sharing and pre- Report of 1940, there were about 3,000 Jews living the first Jews in the area were of Spanish-Portuguese serving Jewish history, heritage and culture. Under in Stamford at that time, and their main occupation descent by way of Brazil and the West Indies. In 1859, the leadership of Lester Sharlach and Gail Gruber was trade and commerce. According to Sharlach, German Jewish immigrants settled in Stamford. By Trell, JHS is embarking on a new project that will there were about 300 Jewish owned or operated 1881, Eastern European Jews began to arrive and tell the story of postwar downtown Stamford through businesses in Stamford. In the 1960s, the Stamford formed the foundation of the present-day Stamford Jewish eyes. Urban Redevelopment Commission began a proj- Jewish community. Immigrants from post-World JHS is planning an exhibit about Stamford busi- ect to redevelop Stamford. Many buildings were War II Europe and later from the former Soviet nesses owned or operated by members of the Jewish torn down, which forever changed the landscape Union represent the main waves of 20th century community in the Atlantic, Pacific, Bedford and of downtown Stamford. Part of Pacific Street is now Jewish immigration. Main Street areas that were in operation in down- under the Stamford Mall. See “Store” on page 20

Karp’s Hardware Bedford Jewelers “Anne Frank: Hiding for the Last Time” Connecticut National History Day Winners By Joan Kranz needed to expand their knowledge of the Holocaust Madina Saleh and Haneen Abuteen, two seventh and the era in which Frank lived. In addition to hours graders at the Madina Academy in Windsor, decided of extended research, they further credited their to research Anne Frank’s life in hiding. Their inves- understanding to the help of a Holocaust survivor, tigation resulted in an original performance titled Tuttie Fishman. Although five years younger than “Anne Frank: Hiding for the Last Time.” It was judged Frank, Fishman was in the same concentration camp. to be the entry in the 2018 Jewish Historical Society Additional advice and encouragement to produce of FairfieldDry Cleaning,County Connecticut Laundry, FlatState work National His- their best work was provided by Saleh and Abuteen’s tory Day competitionPick upthat / Deliverbest incorporatedy Jewish teacher, Salwa Collins. The prize-winning entry can history, heritageAll Work and/or Done a JewishOn Premises personality. be viewed on the JHSFC website,jhsfc-ct.org, or at the FrankThe Policastro/Owneyoung studentsr said they were(203) excited 323-0507 to JHSFC Archives at 990 Hope Ave., Stamford (behind share48 Crescent their knowledge Street and [email protected] for Anne Frank.m the State Cinema). SalehStamford, – who CT enjoys 06905 theater,www.crescentcleaners.co debate, reading, writingm The Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield County is a and playing sports – was able to convince Abuteen – recipient agency of United Jewish Federation of Greater whose favorite activities outside of school are reading, L-r: Haneen Abuteen and Madina Saleh Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. making slime and keeping fish – that writing and performing in an original production would turn out to be thought provoking. Friendship Circle Presents Sensory While writing the script, they realized that they Happy Box to Agudath Sholom Brain Chanukah! Continued from page 3 The Friendship Circle presented a sensory box For eachDry individualCleaning, class,Laundry, the costFlat workis $8 for JCC to Congregation Agudath Sholom, sponsored by members and $10Pick for up non-members. / Delivery the Kanefsky and Mark families. The sensory box For moreAll information, Work Done contact On Premises Lazarus at 203-921- is the first of many that will be gifted to synagogues 4161 or by e-mail at [email protected]. Frank Policastro/Owner (203) 323-0507 and Jewish establishments in Fairfield County. The 48Schoke Crescent Jewish Street Family Service [email protected] a recipient agencym of box is full of hand-picked sensory items, including UnitedStamford, Jewish CT Federation 06905 of Greaterwww.crescentcleaners.co Stamford, New Canaanm noise cancelling headphones, a sensory sack, fidget and Darien. lap pad and more. The box is intended to help to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for individuals with unique abilities. For more information, or to sponsor a sensory box L-r: Rabbi Daniel Cohen of Congregation Agudath Sholom, Happy for your synagogue or organization, e-mail Malya@ Izzy Kanefsky, Rebekah Kanefsky, Chanie Kamman of The Friendship Circle and Susan Mark. New Year! FriendshipCT.com. Dry Cleaning, Laundry, Flat work Pick up / Delivery A Child with a Smile is Worth All Work Done On Premises Frank Policastro/Owner (203) 323-0507 Everything 48 Crescent Street [email protected] Stamford, CT 06905 www.crescentcleaners.com Dr. Leon Hanna and Dr. Kayla Mazer (pictured at right with an unidentified child), members of the United Jewish Federation community, visited the Back to School Shop Congregation in Stamford, where they demonstrated proper oral hygiene and gave each of the nearly 300 children in attendance MishkanHappy Israel of Easton a brand new toothbrush and oral care packet. The fourth The First & Only Synagogue annual event, held at Davenport Ridge Elementary APassover! traditional—warm and friendly, welcoming School, was supported by more than 250 volunteers, many environment—serving Fairfield County since 1945. from the UJF community. Back to School Shop creates ConvenientlyDry Cleaning, located Laundry, on the Trumbull-Easton Flat work Pick up / Delivery a one-day pop-up store where disadvantaged elementary border just minutes from the Merritt Parkway All Work Done On Premises school children from the local community come to shop FOR SERVICE TIMES AND INFORMATION for free. Back to School Shop began under the auspices Frank Policastro/OwnePLEASE CALL: RABBIr TORENHEIM(203) AT 323-0507 of UJF, but has since grown into an independent non- 48203-268-0740 Crescent Street • [email protected] profit organization. Stamford, CT 06905 www.crescentcleaners.com SEPTEMBER 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 11 Chapter Two Goes Green By Sari Jaffe from Jewish Federation of North other Connecticut communities and In late June, the members of America. The goal of the program is places of interest and importance to Chapter Two, a women’s program of to develop community amongst wom- the Jewish communities. United Jewish Federation of Greater en who are in a new chapter of their More information about Chapter Stamford, New Canaan and Darien, lives, such as those who are retired Two and its programming for the spent the afternoon at a garden party or are empty nesters. Chaired by Sari 2018-19 year is available through the held at the home of Shelly and Eddie Jaffe and Sue Frieden, the group has UJF office. Contact Sharon Franklin, Senker. Local floral and landscape had a myriad of experiences, learn- director of the Community Campaign, designer Christine Bloom of Hedge ing about Federation and the local at 203-321-1373, ext. 109, or e-mail Designs led the women on a tour of Jewish agencies, as well as visiting [email protected]. the Senker’s garden, pointing out var- ious plants and flower varieties. After the garden tour, the group gathered On the Road With PJ Library for a demonstration by Bloom, who created a large centerpiece using some of the flowers picked from the Senker garden. The workshop was designed to teach the participants how to create their L-r: Hostess Shelly Senker with landscape own centerpieces using greens and designer Christine Bloom. flowers from their own gardens, and supplement store bought blossoms to Friends old and new said they enjoyed create a “unique and natural” design. light refreshments and socializing in a Bloom also fielded many general ques- beautiful setting. tions asked by the Chapter Two wom- Chapter Two came into existence en regarding flowers and plantings. four years ago after receiving a grant

In June, UJF’s PJ Library took its show on the road for a day in Waveny Park in New Canaan. The day included a hike, snacks and story time with author Elliot Sloyer. PJ Library provides community engagement programming, in addition to free Jewish books and music, to children ages 6 months to 8 years old. Children ages 9-11 are eligible for PJ Our Way, which is also a free book program. For more information on how to get involved, learn about upcoming events and find out how to receive free Jewish books, contact Judy Weinberg, UJF’s director of outreach, engagement and community relations, at [email protected].

Chapter Two women enjoyed the garden at the home of Shelly and Eddie Senker.

UJF invites you to the premier event of

A Night of Good Spirits Connect with like-minded people & enjoy a night out featuring tastings and signature drinks by Litchfield Distillery.

Saturday, November 3rd 8:00 p.m. Silvermine Arts Center 1037 Silvermine Road, New Canaan

$50pp in advance, $60pp at the door

Host Committee in Formation: Marni Amsellem, Sarah & Justin Breiner, Taly & Trevor Farber, Joanna & Mark Frank, Jessica & Adam Furmansky, Cara Hanna, Jill & Mitchell Kaplan, Belinda Lasky, Hayley & Josh Levine, Nicole & Jon Makovsky, Rachel & Sam Maryles, Maureen Pollack, Adam Rafalowicz & Molly Schrag and Rachel & Greg Waldstreicher

Sign up at ujf.org/spirits or contact Sharon Franklin 203-321-1373 ext. 109 or [email protected]

ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 12 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ SEPTEMBER 2018 SEPTEMBER 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 13 14 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ SEPTEMBER 2018 UJF’s Tournament helps Dodge Childhood Hunger United Jewish Federation of and tournament winner Young Israel mation about United Jewish Federation shop and pack bags, should contact Greater Stamford New Canaan and of Stamford. Players and spectators or 3SQUARE, or like to volunteer to Diane Sloyer at 203-321-1373, ext. 105. Darien’s Annual Dodgeball Tour- gathered together for a barbecue and nament for Charity was held on the competitive games of dodgeball. August 6 with more than 70 people The heat did not stop the group from in attendance. The event, chaired playing in support of UJF’s 3SQUARE by Seth Young, Josh Levine, Seth initiative and Sandwich Packers in Tobin and Rob Hoff, drew teams Stamford’s sister city Afula; both from around the Jewish community, initiatives combat childhood hunger. including Bi-Cultural Day School, UJF thanks its sponsor Donald Kon- Carmel Academy, Temple Beth El rad of TitleVest and offers additional thanks to Seasons of Scarsdale, Grade A Grocery Store and to the JCC for use of their facilities. Anyone who would like more infor-

Team Young Israel emerged as the Dodgeball champs!

Co-chairs Seth Young represented Team Dan Avner and Lisa Manheim, from Team Carmel and Josh Levine represented Team Temple Beth El, fought for the win. Beth El and Team Carmel.

Volunteers Continued from page 4 Reading Partners is currently in provides training and workshops Diane Sloyer, UJF CEO; Don Konrad, Title Vest event sponsor; and UJF President Ricky the process of recruiting volunteers throughout the year. Those interest- Arbron for the 2018-19 school year. Volun- ed in joining the Reading Partners’ teers do not need to be experienced, team should contact Lenore Fogel Program Gives Teens Tools to Combat Antisemitism but do need to enjoy reading and at 203-321-1373, ext. 115, or read- For high school juniors and seniors, responding to negative sentiment about being around children. The program [email protected]. Israel can often be daunting. The “Speak Up for Israel” program at the Jewish Community Center of Stamford will once again bring together teens from across the community to help equip them with the tools necessary to engage in an educated dialogue in support of Israel. Facilitated by Noa Bober, the JCC’s Israeli shlicha (emissary), “Speak Up for Israel” seeks to help students who are soon to enter college learn about Israel, and acquire the knowledge and confidence to respond to tough questions, while gaining leadership skills. Bober, along with experts in the field from organizations such as AIPAC, CAM- ERA, Israel Action Network, StandWithUs, ADL and more, will lead educational sessions. There is no cost to enroll. Students will meet for eight sessions throughout the school year and attend the AIPAC Policy Conference in March at no charge. The JCC “Speak Up for Israel” program is made possible by the generosity Guests listened to the presentation of children’s author Tish Rabe (not pictured) at the of donors in the community. Space is limited. For more information, contact Reading Partners annual volunteer appreciation breakfast. Bober at 203-487-0961 or [email protected].

שנה טובה ומתוקה

Wishing You a Healthy, Happy, Peaceful New Year

Elayne and James Schoke Jewish Family Service of Fairfield County Serving Greater Stamford, Westport, Bridgeport and Upper Fairfield County Phone: 203-921-4161 • www.ctjfs.org

Rosh Hashanah Grtings from SEPTEMBER 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 15 Carmel Academy’s New Twist on Summer Reading By Julie Lapin One of the items included in the students’ sum- For many children, the idea of taking time to read mer reading assignment was a list created by the in the summer is a dreaded activity, often driven by Carmel faculty, where teachers personalized their a book list of required reading and meaningless as- recommendations by sharing a memory associated signments that may not suit a student’s interest. At with a book from their childhood. Carmel Academy, the school’s approach to summer “‘Freckle Juice’ by Judy Blume was my favorite reading veers from the traditional, with the goal of when I was probably around 7 or 8 because I had encouraging children to be genuinely excited about lots of freckles! I’m pretty sure my sister and I tried reading, even when school is out. to mix the ingredients in the book to make some “Our summer reading program is not a chore freckle juice concoction,” wrote third grade teacher or an assignment. Instead, we use our students’ Tanya Ofer. close connection and relationships with their peers, Second grade teacher Gina Perl shared: “I re- teachers and family members to help pique their member reading the book ‘Zucchini’ by Barbara interest in reading some great books and hopefully Dana in third grade and begging my mom for a develop a genuine love for reading,” said Jennifer pet ferret. I also loved the ‘Anne of Green Gables’ Gensior, Carmel Academy’s director of general series, so much that as an adult I took a trip to Jennifer Gensior, Carmel Academy’s director of general studies curriculum. Prince Edward Island.” studies curriculum, discussed a book with Carmel students “At Carmel, we approach reading as a social activ- Fourth grade teacher Matt Showman wrote Gabe Loren (left) and Lyla Dynner (right) during a ity – where our students form relationships through about the book “The Time Machine.” “How cool student book club, which encourages peers to share their a shared love of reading,” said Gensior, pointing to would it be to travel in time? Could you find love of reading. Carmel’s peer book clubs, intergenerational book all the answers to life’s questions? What would clubs and buddy reading programs that take place happen if you met yourself in the future? These childhood reads and memories. throughout the school year. were the questions racing through my 9-year-old “I am so excited to discuss the books they chose When summer approached, Carmel’s summer brain,” he said. to read over the summer with all the students when reading assignment sought to encourage students Throughout the summer, Carmel posted many they return in September,” said Gensior. to have conversations about books with people in of these recommendations via the school’s social Carmel Academy is a recipient agency of United their lives – both their friends and family mem- media sites, prompting school parents and mem- Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan bers. Instead of a traditional summer reading log, bers of the community to share their own favorite and Darien. students were given an interactive assignment. Prompts included, “Choose one book that a friend wants you to read because he or she thinks it is the best book,” and “Choose a book that your mom/ dad/grandparent/teacher or any adult promises you will love.”

NextGen Continued from page 1 Jewish families moving into the community and many younger people returning to this community after finishing their education, re-focusing on the 20s, 30s and 40s age group seemed necessary. “As our community continues to grow, UJF is proud to take the lead and launch a rebooted affinity group serving 20s, 30s and 40s called Next- Gen,” said Sloyer. “Understanding that Federation brings together Jews from different parts of our May the year 5779 community, backgrounds and levels of observance to celebrate our shared history and peoplehood, bring peace and harmony The congregation of this is an important undertaking. Together we are creating a community that is welcoming to to the community of Stamford Temple Sinai in Stamford all and that responds to each individual’s search wishes its friends, neighbors for Jewish meaning and connectivity.” and the family of Israel Greg Waldstreicher grew up in Stamford and and the entire community moved back with his wife, Rachel, and son, Jack- son, about a year ago. He recently joined the UJF a peaceful board and shared the following: “I loved growing up in Stamford. Although I attended Bi-Cultural & Day School, I knew kids from everywhere from summer camp, JCC sports leagues and commu- healthy nity Little League. After living in other places, I was drawn back here because of the diversity New Year and open mindedness of the Jewish community. 5779. I joined the UJF board to be an active participant in strategic change and with the growth of the younger segment of the Jewish community. I am Joy Katz, Marshall Kurland, 458 Lakeside Drive, Stamford, Connecticut thrilled to be part of spearheading the launch President Chief Executive Offi cer 203-322-1649 of NextGen.” www.templesinaistamford.org The first NextGen event will take place Saturday evening, November 3, at Silvermine Art Gallery and will feature tastings from Litchfield Distillery. (For more information, see the ad on page 11.) UJF’s reboot reaches beyond NextGen. For this L’SHANAH TOVAH past year, UJF has shared several events with its from neighbor Federation, UJA-JCC Greenwich. Plans are underway to formally combine education initiatives with UJA-JCC Greenwich to include programs like Tapestry, Melton and Women’s Education Day. “I am excited to see educational opportunities shared by both Federations. Although I live in Stamford, I take Melton classes in Greenwich. It just makes so much sense for the two Federations to share this endeavor,” noted Peter Lilienthal, a UJF board member and chair of UJF’s Jewish Community Relations Council. Federation leadership looks forward to sharing more news in the months ahead. “It has been an exciting year of evaluation and it’s been wonderful speaking with so many of you and brainstorming together on how to move Federation forward. With your help, we can strengthen this community. This is just the beginning of more great things www.jhsfc-ct.org to come,” said Sloyer. ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 16 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ SEPTEMBER 2018 UJF Connects to Jewish Roots On an evening in July, United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien partnered with UJA-JCC Greenwich to host Chashi Freedman, director of education for Nativ. Nativ is the Jewish Agency for Israel’s Jewish identity-building education program for soldiers in the Israel Defense Force who may not be considered Jewish, feel disconnected from their Jewish roots or wish to learn more about Judaism and Zionism. Most students are immigrants from the former Soviet Union or children of FSU immigrants – young men and women who may expe- rience feelings of alienation and isolation as a result of their immigration and their lack of knowledge about Jewish culture and history. L-r: Shara and David Israel, Nativ Director Chashi Each year, the Jewish Agency’s Nativ courses work L-r: Hosts Nimrod and Rachel Dayan with Nativ Director Freedman and UJF CEO Diane Sloyer, all friends for 40 with around 1,700 immigrant soldiers in a four-and- Chashi Freedman. years, participated in the evening’s event. a-half week program of learning, traveling through Israel and sharing in observance of Shabbat and Jewish holidays. Nativ seeks to provide immigrant soldiers with an affirmative, cross-denominational way to connect to their Jewish roots. After completing the program, many participants choose to pursue an At right: The optional extended conversion course. crowd listened to UJF and UJA community members gathered in Director Chashi a local home, heard from Freedman, and watched Freedman as he a film to hear directly from the Nativ participants. shared the impact “Having a daughter in the IDF, I am proud to know of Nativ. that our U.S. philanthropy can do so much to affect so many. Our impact is real and I am extremely proud,” shared Elissa Klapper. For more information of the Nativ program or the work of UJF in Israel and overseas, contact Diane Sloyer, UJF CEO, at 203-321-1373, ext. 105.

Moon Continued from page 1 Ido Anteby, chief executive of SpaceIL, outlined the schedule. He explained that SpaceIL will test the spacecraft through October, and in November, the company will deliver it to the Cape Canaveral launch site in Florida. The launch date is set for December; two months later, on February 13, the spacecraft is expected to land on the moon. “It’s a very compact spacecraft,” says Anteby. “We worked together with the IAI team and SpaceIL team on very sophisticated IT JUST engineering to get [it] all the way to the moon.” MAKES CENTS SpaceIL is backed by a number of donors, includ- ing U.S. casino magnate Sheldon Adelson, the Schus- TO ADVERTISE terman Family Foundation and South African-born HERE! billionaire entrepreneur Morris Kahn. To advertise, contact Kahn said costs associated with the program hover Bonnie Rozen at around $95 million. He emphasized that he will under- (800)779-7896, ext. 244 or bonnie@ write any gaps in funding, saying “this project will not thereportergroup.org stop, will not have any problem, because of money.” He or Diane Sloyer at (203) also called on the Israeli government to follow through 321-1373, ext 105 or with its pledge to fund 10 percent of the project. [email protected] “When the rocket goes into orbit,” Kahn said, “I think we will all remember where we were when Israel landed on the moon. ...Space is going to be very important to the future.” According to SpaceIL, once the spacecraft disengag- es from the launch rocket, it will begin orbiting Earth in continuously larger elliptical orbits. This long and Pre-K through complex course will allow the spacecraft to reach the moon with minimal fuel consumption. At a certain stage in its orbit, the spacecraft will reach a point that is near Grade 9 the moon. It will then ignite its engines and reduce its speed to allow the moon’s gravity to pull it in, and will begin orbiting it. The entire journey, from launch to landing, is expected to last about eight weeks. BY DESIGN In addition to taking photos on the surface of the moon, the spacecraft will measure its magnetic field By focusing on the formative years of at the landing site, using a magnetometer installed childhood, our students are equipped on it. The measurements are intended for research with exactly what they need to take conducted at the Weizmann Institute of Science-UCLA. the next leap, from subject to subject, Once it completes its mission, the spacecraft will remain grade to grade and to the nation’s best on the moon, displaying the flag of the state of Israel. high schools, colleges and beyond. SpaceIL’s spacecraft is not only small – it measures 2 meters-by-1.5 meters and weighs 600 kilograms (1,323 pounds) – but also significantly less expensive than those usually launched into deep space. This will be the smallest spacecraft to land on the moon to date. That’s one small achievement for the world, but one giant leap for Israel. COME TAKE A CLOSER LOOK! Join us at 9 a.m. any Thursday this Fall for Coff ee in the Commons. Ask questions, take a tour and get a close-up look at our program. www.countryschool.net/visit

GO BOLDLY. 635 Frogtown Rd, New Canaan, CT • (203) 972-0771 • www.countryschool.net A co-ed, independent day school for students in Pre-K (ages 3 & 4) through Grade 9. Illustration of the SpaceIL lunar space craft. SEPTEMBER 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 17 Honey Cake, Something Old, Something New By Ronnie Fein utes, then invert onto a cake rack to cool completely. Kosher Kitchen” and “Hip Kosher.” Visit her food blog, Jewish-Americans, both ko- Makes 12 servings. Kitchen Vignettes, at www.ronniefein.com, friend her on sher and non-kosher, eat differ- Ronnie Fein is a cookbook author, food writer and cooking Facebook at RonnieVailFein, or follow her on Twitter and ently than we did generations teacher in Stamford. She is the author of “The Modern Instagram at @RonnieVFein. ago. Our food is more modern, healthier, too, and in keeping with all the culinary trends of the moment. These days, some of my kosher colleagues are using new techniques, such as “sous vide,” and most of us make use of products our grandmas never contemplated The cover of Ronnie – like coconut yogurt – to cook Fein’s newest cookbook, up foods they probably never “The Modern Kosher May you be Wishing everyone heard of – like Indian-style Kitchen” inscribed in the tandoori chicken. a happy, healthy Gone are some of the one-time-favorites: tongue and sweet Book of Life sandwiches and p’tcha, kishke and schav. New Year! for good health, But then come the High Holidays and we all seem Ellen & peace, and prosperity. to scurry back to our roots. It’s our way of connecting Richard Weber with our people and paying tribute to those who and Family Marsha Kaiser Shendell have come before us, honoring our families and their food. Rosh Hashanah wouldn’t be the same & Family without our beloved briskets and kugels, gefilte fish and plum cake. Our family is no different. When I was growing up, the High Holiday meal started off with matzo ball May the new year May the New Year soup, then came roasted turkey, kugel and carrots. Dinner always ended with honey cake, because my be the start bring you Aunt Belle was a master baker and her honey cake was of only the beyond delicious, at least to the adults at the table. peace, health, I never liked honey cake when I was a child. It sweetest things! took years to appreciate the heavy crumb, moist with and joy! liquid bee-sugar and that hint of citrus Aunt Belle had Cheryl Bader, Stephen, suggested as an addition to the batter. After I realized how much I like it, I have baked one every year since. Rachel, Daniel and Evan Goldblum Meryl and David Gordon But my kids and grandkids didn’t like honey cake, either, until I made one change: I decided to mod- ernize the recipe by using date honey (silan). Silan isn’t actually honey made from bees. It is a syrup made from dates and is as sweet, thick and viscous as honey. Have aDiana Happy and & Healthy Barry Gould New Year! Everybody, young and old, loves this cake! So – my Rosh Hashanah dessert is still old-fash- ioned, but it’s modern, too. A little tradition, a little something new. Most of all, it’s still very much in keeping with eating honey on the holidays. Wishing everyone I usually make Date Honey Cake a few weeks a happy, healthy SHANA before the holidays, wrap it well and freeze it (for and sweet up to a month). TOVA Date Honey Cake New Year! Rabbi Moshe & Leah 1¾ cups all-purpose flour Tzemach, Mussie, Shternie, 1½ tsp. baking powder Advertising Levi, Yisroel, Shaina, Rivka & ½ tsp. baking soda Representative ½ tsp. salt Gavriel Shemtov ½ tsp. cinnamon ½ tsp. ground ginger ¼ tsp. ground nutmeg 2 tsp. grated fresh orange peel May the sound of 1 tsp. grated fresh lemon peel the shofar bring peace and May peace, 1 cup date honey happiness, and ½ cup cold, strong coffee good health to us all! good health ¼ cup vegetable oil be with you 2 large eggs 1 throughout the /3 cup sugar Preheat the oven to 325°F. Lightly grease a 9”x5” New Year. loaf pan. Line the pan with parchment paper, then lightly grease the paper. Set the pan aside. Nancy, Gadi, Michael and Bari Mimoun BARBARA & LARRY MILLER AND FAMILY Mix the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, orange peel and lemon peel together in a bowl. Set aside. May this New Year Whisk the date honey, coffee and vegetable oil be a time of together and set aside. peace & joy for you In the bowl of an electric mixer set at medium and all those you love. Shana Tova speed, beat the eggs and sugar for 2-3 minutes or until well blended. Stir in the honey mixture and J blend it in thoroughly. Add the flour mixture and H blend it in thoroughly. Spoon the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for Warm Wishes for a sweet 60-70 minutes or until a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10 min- New Year filled with health, JCC Rosh Hashanah Luncheon for Seniors May the new year joy and peace! On Friday, September 7, from 11:30 am-1 pm, the JCC will host its annual Rosh Hashanah luncheon. be the start Thanks to the generosity of Henry Stern and his family, in memory of Sandra Stern and Irene Krinsky, of only the Diane and Elliot Sloyer the luncheon is free to all seniors. Guests will enjoy a kosher holiday meal and hear the blowing of the shofar. sweetest things! RSVP is required no later than Wednesday, August Rebecca, Yoni, Coby and Zimi 29. Those planning to attend must contact Connie Edith Samers & Cirillo Freeman at 203-487-0983 or cfreeman@ Edward Smith stamfordjcc.org. ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 18 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ SEPTEMBER 2018 Coats Needed for Schoke JFS VOICES AND VIEWS Those cleaning out their closets during the summer are asked to bring gently used, clean winter coats (especially large sizes) to Schoke Jewish Family Service for the Kosher Food Pantry clients. Coats and winter gear – such as new hats, Noa Bober, the New JCC scarves, gloves and mittens for adults and children – are being accepted at the Schoke JFS office at 733 Summer St., th6 floor, Stamford. Donations of gift cards to retail stores such as Old Navy, Target, Kohl’s, etc., would also be appreciated. Israeli Shlicha Contact Rebekah Kanefsky, director of case management, at 203-921-4161 Shalom Stamford! to make an even deeper or e-mail [email protected] for drop off information. My name is Noa Bober. connection, with an even Starting in September, I am bigger impact. I went back for going to start a new chapter a second summer and heard New Around Town in my life and will be joining about the year-round shlichut your community as the new program of the Jewish Agency Yaakov Faratci to Join Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy JCC Israeli shlicha (which for Israel* and I knew I had Yaakov Faratci will join the Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy means “messenger” in He- to be a part of it. of Stamford faculty as a middle school Judaic studies school brew). I can’t explain how ex- In this next year or two teacher. The newly formed school opens this year as an cited I am to meet everybody! in Stamford, I will strive to outgrowth of the merger of the Bi-Cultural Day School and But before I do, let me tell develop strong and deep the Jewish High School of Connecticut. you a little bit about myself. friendships with the people of Faratci will also continue to serve as teen director of Noa Bober I am 23 years old and live the community. I want to be Congregation Agudath Sholom in Stamford, a post he has in a small place in Israel called Moshav a bridge between Israel and Stamford, held for the past two years. Together with his wife, Yolly, he Lakhish, which is located 40 minutes and show Israel as I experience it from also served as youth director for NCSY (National Council of from Beer Sheva. I was a counselor in the moshav, the mechina and the army. Synagogue Youth) and as city director for Stamford NCSY. Yaakov Faratci the Bni Hamoshavim youth movement I think that the complexity of Israel is The Faratcis are members of the Board of Education for for two years in my moshav. I was also a part of what makes it so beautiful and New England and Upstate New York NCSY. part of a group in my school that taught special. My hope is that through my work Raised in Chicago, Faratci studied at Jerusalem’s Yeshivat Orayta. He is a drama to the younger groups. After a people will see more than what they recent graduate of Yeshiva University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology, year of pre-army mechina, a leadership read in the newspapers or hear on the and plans to pursue a master’s degree this coming year. development program, I joined the news. I’d like to expose people to many “I am committed to teaching a vast and diverse range of Jewish content and army as a search and rescue instructor. opinions and teach them to be critical hope to bring energy to the school,” says Faratci. “At Bi-Cultural, students come I served for two years and my main role about everything they read or hear. first. Their personal growth matters just as much as their academic growth. was to teach groups of civilians all over At the same time, I look forward to [They] are the most precious gifts our world has … not because of what they Israel how to respond to and save lives embracing a new lifestyle and culture do, but because of who they are.” in case of a major earthquake. different from my own, and learning Judy Weinberg, Director of Outreach, Engagement and At the end of my service, I worked at as much as possible – exploring my a summer camp at the JCC in Durham, Jewish identity and feeling connected Community Relations NC. I developed a very deep connection to Jewish peoplehood and Israel even United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New to the community and came back for when I am so far away from home. Canaan and Darien welcomes Judy Weinberg as director a second summer. I found living in a I am looking forward to meeting you of outreach, engagement and community relations. Wein- Jewish community outside of Israel all very soon! berg’s responsibilities include managing various community fascinating. In Israel one doesn’t need Noa Bober programs, such as PJ Library, the Shalom Stamford and to do anything in order to be Jewish. In *The Jewish Agency for Israel receives Shalom Baby programs; and the Jewish Community Rela- the States, I unexpectedly experienced an annual core allocation from the United tions Council. She will also work with the 3SQUARE and what it is like to choose to be Jewish Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Reading Partners programs. every day. I learned so much from this Canaan and Darien. In addition, UJF Weinberg comes to UJF from the position of North Amer- Judy Weinberg phenomenon. The experience I had provides a grant to the JCC for the emissary ican project manager of Jerusalem Unity Prize and Unity at the summer camp made me want in the local community. Day. Her experience also includes positions as directors of education at Reform and Conservative synagogues in New York and Boston. Diane Sloyer, chief executive officer of UJF, states, “We’re excited to have Judy bring her professional expertise to our community building and engage- Antwerp Jews get City to Refill Dried-Up ment efforts. She recognizes the importance of outreach and will help lead us in determining the needs of our community.” Pond for Rosh Hashanah Ritual Weinberg, who was born in the U.S. but raised and educated in Israel, has By JTA staff nah because it is near the heavily Jewish also served in the Israeli army. She lives in White Plains with her husband and (JTA) – Municipal authorities in neighborhood in Antwerp, where some two teenage children. Antwerp agreed to replenish the dried 18,000 Jews live. Before its severe de- Rabbi Moshe Yachnes Named to Bi-Cultural Judaic Studies up pond of a centrally located park so pletion, the pond also contained fish, that local Jews can perform Tashlich, a which to some is a requirement for Faculty ritual of atonement requiring a large any body of water used for the ritual. Rabbi Moshe Yachnes has been appointed to the faculty body of water. However, following the drought it is of Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy as a middle school Judaic The Belgian city’s fire department will not clear how many fish remain. Jewish studies teacher. The newly formed school is the outgrowth pump thousands of gallons of water into community members plan to add fish of the merger of Bi-Cultural Day School and the Jewish the Stadspark pond in time for Rosh Ha- to the Stadspark pond with permission High School of Connecticut. shanah, the Jewish holiday when Tashlich from the municipality, the report said. Raised in St. Louis, Rabbi Yachnes attended the Rabbin- is performed, the Lema’an Teda Jewish In addition to the fill-up, local ical Seminary of America, from which he received rabbinic newspaper reported the week of August synagogues from the Machzike Hadas ordination. He is currently completing his master’s degree 3. The pond had dried up because of and Sjemiera congregations have been in education from Aspen University. the extreme heat wave recorded in re- approached to install large basins with Before joining the Bi-Cultural staff, he lived in Queens, NY, Rabbi Moshe Yachnes cent weeks in Western Europe, where fish to facilitateTashlich . Rosh Hasha- where he worked for the Jewish Education Program of Queens, temperatures exceeded 100°F. nah this year begins on the evening an organization that provides Jewish education classes for public school students. Thousands of Jews perform Tashlich of Sunday, September 9, ending two “I look forward to bringing my passion for learning and teaching Torah to at Stadspark each year on Rosh Hasha- days later. Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy,” said Rabbi Yachnes. Support in Our Community

Employment and Life Transitions Support Group Schoke JFS Spousal Bereavement Group Tuesdays, 1st and 3rd of every month at Stamford office of Schoke JFS, Support for grieving the loss of a spouse or significant other. Contact 733 Summer St. Looking for emotional support while searching for Amanda Geffner, Schoke JFS Therapist at 203-921-4161 or ageffner@ employment? Facilitated by Lois Meyer, LMSW, Case Manager. No cost. ctjfs.org. Fridays at 10:30 AM, beginning September 8th at Stamford For registration, please contact 203-921-4161 or email [email protected] JCC, 1035 Newfield Ave. Financial Fitness Coaching Brain Fitness Group If you would benefit from a financial coach, register for a two hour The group will focus on attention skills with practical support to help coaching session with Liz Krebs at [email protected] or call reach personal brain fitness goals. Advance registration suggested. 203-368-5537. Contact Rebekah Kanefsky at 203-921-4161 or email at Mondays, Oct. 15, 22 & 29, 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM at the Stamford JCC, [email protected]. 1035 Newfield Avenue. JCC Members $20 for 3 sessions/Community $25. Let’s Talk JCC Members $8 for individual session/Community $10. Seniors talk about common interests and concerns, facilitated by a To register, contact Connie Cirillo Freeman at 203-487-0983 or email Schoke Jewish Family Service counselor. [email protected]. For additional information, contact Dr. Tuesdays, 11 :00 AM, Free at the Stamford JCC, 1035 Newfield Ave. Toby Lazarus, Schoke JFS Brain Fitness Program Coordinator at 203- Contact Eve Moskowitz at 203-921-4161 or [email protected]. 921-4161 or [email protected]. SEPTEMBER 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 19 JDC and Israel Team Up to Alleviate African Poverty Through Agtech By JNS staff to think about how many lives we will impact over (JNS) – In a ceremony in Jerusalem on July 31, the coming years,” he said. the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee TOV’s partnership with the Israeli government and Israel’s Ministry of the Economy formalized will include the transfer of Israeli agtech knowledge their partnership to leverage Israeli agricultural tech- to experts, businesses and smallholder farmers in nology as part of JDC’s new Tikkun Olam Ventures emerging economies, as well as the development of (or TOV) program, which seeks to alleviate poverty knowledge in Israel about both the needs of small- among Africa’s smallholder farmers. holder farmers to promote innovation and effective Attendees included Shay Rinsky, director general business models for reaching smallholder farmers. of the Ministry of Economy and Industry; Mandie L-r: Shay Rinsky, director general of the Ministry of Economy The partnership will also foster “knowledge com- Winston, director of JDC’s international-develop- and Industry; philanthropist Seth Merrin; and Mandie munities” in Israel to disseminate and develop knowl- ment program; and American businessman and Winston, director of JDC’s international-development edge gained through TOV’s work in Africa, which is philanthropist Seth Merrin, who has long been in- program. (Photo by JDC) already underway in seven farming demonstration volved in investment work in the developing world, sites in Ethiopia. including his ongoing efforts at the Agahozo Shalom “TOV is a novel philanthropic model that creates “This initiative is an important platform for the Youth Village in Rwanda. the perfect public-private partnership to implement Ministry of Economy and Industry to give the develop- “Israel has incredible skills and technologies to the technology and the training necessary to signifi- ing world access to Israeli solutions to the challenges share that will make the world a better place and cantly improve the yields of the farmers, which begins faced by so many,” said Eli Cohen, Israel’s minister significantly improve the lives of many,” said Merrin. the journey out of poverty. It is incredibly exciting of economy and industry. “Out of the Blue,” Regal Biblical Color “Tekhelet” Returns to Modern Israel By Eliana Rudee Dr. Baruch Sterman, author of “The Rarest Blue: (JNS) – A new exhibit exploring the mysterious The Remarkable Story of an Ancient Color Lost to color tekhelet, a vibrant blue dye mentioned 49 times History and Rediscovered,” also noted at a Jerusalem in the Torah and later chosen as the central color of press conference ahead of the exhibition opening, Israel’s national flag, opened recently at the Bible “During Roman imperial control of the region, using Lands Museum in Jerusalem. tekhelet was made a crime of treason punishable by The source of the color tekhelet was a mystery for execution, and the knowledge of how to make it was nearly 1,500 years until later identified by archaeo- lost for 1,200 years.” logical evidence from around the eastern Mediter- As tallit reverted to a prayer shawl rather than a ranean coast. The tekhelet exhibit at the Bible Lands daily garment, the shawls were decorated with blue Museum was launched in honor of Israel’s 70th year stripes as a memento to the tekhelet that was once of independence, as the power and significance of part of the tzitzit. tekhelet emerged from Jewish memory in modern times It is thus no surprise that when it came to choosing as the inspiration for Israel’s vibrant national flag. the colors of the Zionist flag in the 19th century, tekhelet The exhibit narrates the quest for the biblical was a strong contender. The leaders of the Zionist blue color, “yearned for by mankind throughout movement found that tekhelet blue stripes with a Star generations.” of David in its center perfectly expressed the identity “Its sacred meaning took root in Jewish history There is a photo but since it shows the blue not sure we want and national aspirations of the Jewish people, and when the Israelites were commanded to cover the to put it in. Also they didn’t send a caption so basically it’s this is what was used. Mirroring old practices, “This Ark of the Covenant and Tabernacle utensils with “Threads dyed the color of tekhelet with the murex snails is how the Jews decided to identify themselves and tekhelet dyed cloths, and to tie tekhelet threads to the used to make the dye. (Photo courtesy of JNS) be identified,” said Sterman. corners of their garments as a reminder of God and his David Wolffsohn, who designed the flag for the commandments,” curator Yehuda Kaplan told JNS. the same time period mentioning the color. Tekhelet First Zionist Congress held in Basel in 1897, wrote: As the dye industry declined, the origin of the textiles became prized commodities in the ancient “Indeed we have a flag, white and blue. Thistallit color baffled many for centuries, only to be recently world, as unique expressions of royalty and divinity. in which we wrap ourselves in prayer – is tallit is identified by marine biologists and talmudic re- “The large number of snails required for their our emblem.” searchers who discovered the source – murex snails production and the complex manufacturing process, Then, in 1948, the flag of the Zionist movement indigenous to the Mediterranean shores, near Haifa. together with their beauty and resistance to fading, became the national flag of the newly established The fade-resistant pigment from a glandular secretion made textiles dyed in blue and purple into luxury state of Israel. “Now not only an expression of of murex snails was likely used in ancient times by items identified with royalty and divinity,” said Kaplan. Jewish personal devotion that survived millennia early peoples of the Near East, applied to textiles for It is described as the pure color that made up the of historical transformations, but also imprinted the biblical blue. The color mirrors the stone lapis high priest’s robe and the thread used in his head- as a modern symbol of national pride and deter- lazuli (called sapphire in the Bible), imported from dress, as well as the color used on tzitzit (tassels of the mination on a global stage, tekhelet blue lives on,” Afghanistan to the ancient Near East, and prized Jewish tallit, or prayer shawl) to remind the Jewish stated Kaplan. for its heavenly color of God’s throne and footstool. people of God and his commandments. Since its discovery, tekhelet is now seeing a revival. Archaeological evidence for the tekhelet industry, “The decline of the tekhelet dye industry [and along According to Rabbi Tuly Weisz, director of Israel365, dating back to 15th century B.C.E., includes remains with it, the skill required to produce these dyes] after “Today, for the first time in centuries, people are once of crushed murex shells and potsherds bearing re- the Muslim conquest in the seventh century C.E. led again wearing tekhelet on their tzitzit. From even the mains of the dye, in addition to small pieces of dyed to the disappearance of the blue thread from the smallest sea creature, we continue to see the wonders textiles discovered in Syria and documents from tzitzit,” said Kaplan. of the Bible come to life in the land of Israel.” NAVASKY JEWISH EXPLORERS AT CONGREGATION BETH EL-NORWALK A Modern Approach to Hebrew School (Ages 3-13)

Winner of the 2017 Solomon Schechter Award for innovative programs Classes Start September 9th Warm, friendly, inclusive environment • Welcoming to interfaith families Monthly K'tanim program to introduce preschoolers to Jewish holidays and songs. Custom website to help grade school students learn at a self-directed pace. Lots of extracurricular activities to develop friendships and have fun! Located right o exit 16 on 1-95 at 109 East Ave, Norwalk. To learn more, visit congbethel.org/hebrewschool, call (203)838-2710, or email [email protected] ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 20 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ SEPTEMBER 2018 Isaac Herzog Elected Jewish Agency Chairman Source: www.jewishagency.org government of Israel. It is essential that The Board of Governors of the Jew- we preserve both our independence ish Agency for Israel has unanimously and our partnership, and I wish you elected Member of Knesset Isaac much success in that crucial endeavor,” Herzog to succeed Natan Sharansky Sharansky said. as chairman of the Jewish Agency As government secretary, Herzog Executive. The vote by Jewish leaders laid the foundation for the historic from around the world took place at compromise on egalitarian prayer at the opening plenary of the board’s June the Kotel that was adopted for all reli- meetings in Jerusalem. gious streams. Over the last 20 years, In electing Herzog, the board ac- he has been a regular speaker and cepted the recommendation of the participant at the Jewish Federations Leadership Nominating Committee, of North America’s General Assembly. composed of the leaders of the Jewish An attorney by profession, Herzog Agency’s constituent organizations – was elected chairman of the Labor Party the Jewish Federations of North Amer- in November 2013, making him leader ica, Keren Hayesod-UIA and the World of the opposition. In 2014, Herzog led Zionist Organization. Chairman-elect the alliance between the Labor Party Herzog addressed the gathering shortly and MK Tzipi Livini’s Hatnua Party after his election and was congratulated creating the Zionist Union, Israel’s by outgoing Chairman of the Executive largest central-left political party. Natan Sharansky and Chairman of the Outgoing Jewish Agency Chairman Natan Sharansky (at right) and Chairman-elect MK In addition to being minister of the Board of Governors Michael Siegal. Isaac Herzog shared a moment following Herzog’s election at the Jewish Agency Board of Jewish Diaspora, Herzog was the minister Sharansky concluded his tenure at the Governors’ meetings in Jerusalem on June 24. (Photo by Nir Kafri for the Jewish Agency of Housing and Construction (2005), organization’s helm during the course for Israel) minister of Tourism (2006-07) and of the board meetings. Herzog stepped minister of Welfare and Social Services down from the Knesset and entered 1960. When his father served as Israel’s taking a major part in anti-BDS activ- (2007-11). Prior to that, he served as office on August 1. Ambassador to the U.N. from 1975-78, ities following the Second Lebanon government secretary (1999-2001). He “I’d like to thank Natan for his nine Herzog studied and graduated from War, leading the international Forum also served as the Israel government coor- years of outstanding leadership and The Ramaz Jewish High School in New against Anti-Semitism and chairing dinator for the provision of humanitarian direction and hope and am confident York and attended Jewish youth camps Taglit-Birthright. aid to the population of Gaza in 2008-09. that Isaac Herzog will lead the Jewish Ramah and Massad. He continued his “We are the only organization whose “A Jew is a Jew is a Jew, no matter Agency in the same honorable and education in the U.S., studying Interna- leadership includes representatives of his denomination or the type of kippah compassionate fashion as Natan Sha- tional relations, English literature and both the coalition and the opposition, he chooses to wear or not to wear on ransky,” Siegal said. Arabic at Cornell New York universities. of Orthodox, Conservative and Reform his head. I promise to work hard to Herzog, son of former Israeli Pres- Herzog has worked with world Jewry Jewry, and of Jewish communities promote Jewish unity and to partner ident Chaim Herzog and grandson of all his life. From 2007-09, he was the around the world. We are the indepen- with the prime minister and the gov- Israel’s first chief rabbi, Yizhak Isaac minister of the Jewish Diaspora, Society dent voice of the Jewish people and, at ernment to achieve this crucial goal,” Halevi Herzog, was born in Israel in and the Fight Against Anti-Semitism, the same time, our main partner is the Herzog said. Two Israeli Universities Ranked among World’s Top 100 By JTA staff rankings,” Technion President Peretz rankings started 15 years ago. The ranking’s top 10 stayed the same (JTA) – Two Israeli institutions were Lavie said, “but of course a high place “The proof is in the pudding,” said as last year, the Times of Israel reported, ranked among the world’s 100 top in the Shanghai ranking is an exciting Hebrew University’s president, Asher with Harvard and Stanford at first and universities. The Technion-Israel Insti- stamp of international recognition of Cohen. “Hebrew University’s continued second followed by Britain’s Cam- tute of Technology in Haifa and The the Technion’s excellence.” commitment to excellence and innova- bridge. Among other Israeli schools, Hebrew University of Jerusalem were Hebrew University, which this year tion has placed us among the world’s the Weizmann Institute of Science was 77th and 95th, respectively, out of 1,200 is celebrating its centennial, returned leading academic institutions for 14 years. included in the institutions ranked universities surveyed in the prestigious to the top 100 after being knocked That’s something we can all be proud 101-150 and Tel Aviv University was in Shanghai Ranking of world universities out for the first time last year since the of — staff, students and professors alike.” the 151-200 group. that came out on August 14. The Technion moved up 16 places from its 2017 ranking and was listed as A Kosher Cheeseburger is Now Possible – Well, Almost Israel’s top university for the third con- By Josefin Dolsten the bun into umami-laden perfection. The Orthodox Union, the largest secutive year, the Times of Israel reported. TEANECK, NJ (JTA) – For many Until now, the cheeseburger was the kosher certifying agency in the United It was the seventh straight year the public Americans, no hamburger is complete stuff of daydreams for Jews observing States, was “thrilled” to put its seal of university has ranked in the top 100. without cheese. Whether a slice of no- kosher dietary laws that prohibit the approval on the Impossible Burger, “We constantly measure ourselves fuss American or something fancier, mixing of meat and dairy. Sure, there said Rabbi Menachem Genack, CEO and improve regardless of international the cheese melds the beef patty with are vegetarian meat substitutes and of the organization’s kosher division. fake cheeses – made from ingredients Approving the burger took only two such as black beans and brown rice, months because many of its ingredi- Store Continued from page 10 cashew nuts and soy – but the kosher ents already were certified kosher, said Much of the research for this proj- looking to find out what Stamford cheeseburger remains a chimera. Rabbi Yitchok Gutterman, who oversaw ect is being done with the help of the was like during that time. Now a new product is making the the process. Center for Stamford History. In ad- To contribute to this project or help forbidden attainable. Well, almost. Though the burger is 100 percent dition, the Jewish Historical Society in any way, contact the Jewish Historical The Impossible Burger is a meatless kosher, a cheeseburger could raise is collecting information about the Society of Fairfield County by calling patty that has made waves for tasting questions of appearances. A Jewish legal “family store,” and believes there are 203-321-1373, ext.150, or e-mail info@ and looking just like the real thing. It concept known as “marit ayin” (literally, many people out there who can help. jhsfc-ct.org. For more information even “bleeds” just like a juicy burger “appearance to the eye”) bans certain JHS would like to hear from anyone about JHS, visit http://jhsfc-ct.org. thanks to heme, a protein that puts otherwise kosher actions that could ap- who owned or operated a business The Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield the hem- in hemoglobin. pear to violate Jewish law. In the case of in downtown Stamford during the County is a recipient agency of United In May, the Redwood City, CA-based the Impossible Burger, an onlooker could 1940s, ‘50s, or ‘60s, or had family Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Impossible Foods announced that the see an observant Jew eating what looks (close or extended) who did. JHS is Canaan and Darien. burger, which launched in 2016 and is like a genuine cheeseburger and assume only available at restaurants, had been that mixing meat and cheese is allowed. certified kosher. It recently received an- But restaurants can deal with that by other seal of approval as the Food and displaying a sign that says the burger is Drug Administration certified it as safe not made from meat, Genack told JTA. to eat after answering questions about Still, some observant Jews may gag at the genetically engineered substance the mere idea of eating a cheeseburger, used to produce plant-based heme. even if halachah, or Jewish law, says the Noam Sokolow, who owns the kosher non-meat option is OK. “For people for dairy restaurant Shelly’s Café with his whom kashrut and Jewish eating prac- wife, Shelly, said he typically serves only tices is a matter of identity as opposed dishes made from scratch. He was willing to halachah, this is ironically more of to make an exception for the Impossible a challenge,” said David Kraemer, a Burger. “This gives us an opportunity professor of Talmud and rabbinics at to serve a kosher cheeseburger,” he the Jewish Theological Seminary who said. “We’ve had kosher veggie cheese has written about the history of Jewish burgers and other types of substitutes, eating and identity. but the Impossible Burger is not just an Gutterman, the rabbi who oversaw ordinary veggie burger.” certifying the burger as kosher, said he Shelly’s Café has four variations of the has been flooded with questions asking burger on its menu – with Swiss, cheddar, about it. “It’s incredibly popular,” he The Syl-May Cut Rate Drug Store cheese fondue and a no-cheese option. said. “Everybody is buying it!” SEPTEMBER 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 21 22 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ SEPTEMBER 2018 VOICES AND VIEWS Why I Care… teen voices “Community is the human expression of Divine love. It is where I am valued simply for who I am, how I live and what I Goldman Memorial Essay give to others. It is the place where they know my name.” – Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks Contest Winners The annual Rabbi Alex Goldman Memorial Essay Contest challenges high school students to think about their personal Jewish experience. The winners of the Annual Focus on: Toby Lazarus and Rabbi Alex Goldman Memorial Essay Contest for high school students were announced in May. Below left is second place winner Michal Fass’ essay. Third place winner Celia Allison Greenbaum Rosen’s essay is at right. Ashley Shapiro’s first place essay was printed in the June/July/ By Jane Levene August issue of this newspaper. Toby Lazarus and Allison Green- By Michal Fass By Celia Rosen baum have been active members of the My heartbeat Two years ago, Stamford Jewish community for many matched my steps I sat in our Alba- years. Recently, they worked together as I turned the cor- ny, NY, kitchen, to co-chair United Jewish Federation’s ner. There stood eyes filled with Women’s Philanthropy Spring Dinner. my new school, tears, as my par- Toby and her husband, Allan Avnei Hachosh- ents told me that Lichtenberg, have lived in Stamford en, a building of in a few months we for 19 years. They have four children, Jerusalem stone. would be moving two sons and twin girls. Toby, a Ph.D., I kissed my broth- to Stamford, CT. started working at Schoke Jewish er goodbye and Earlier that year, Family Service earlier this year as the walked to my new Michal Fass as I began my Celia Rosen Outreach coordinator for the Brain L-r: Toby Lazarus and Allison Greenbaum classroom. As I freshman year of Fitness Program. entered, the students greeted me high school, I had made it clear to Allison and her husband, Fred, have Describe your past and current in- with forced smiles and uncomfortable my friends and family that, after nine lived in the Stamford community for volvement with UJF. stares. The only other American intro- years of Jewish day school, I needed 20 years. Prior to coming to Stamford, Toby: I feel as if I have been in- duced herself. We were interrupted by some distance from my tiny Jewish they lived in Hong Kong for three years. volved in Federation for my entire the arriving teacher. Everyone stood up world and, by attending a secular Allison and Fred have two sons – Richie, life and I remember doing volunteer at once. Morah Liat asked me to come private high school where I was one who participated in a tech start-up work with my mother as a child. In to the front and introduce myself. With of only a handful of Jewish students, I internship program in Israel this past graduate school, I was active in the flushed cheeks and trembling hands, had done just that. At my new school, summer and is currently a student at (former) University Department for I mumbled with incorrect Hebrew I discovered political activism. I cam- Cornell University, and Matthew, who Federation through the Chicago and a pathetic excuse for an accent. paigned for Bernie and, with my new will be attending Colgate University Federation, which provided graduate Morah Liat tried to reassure me with friends, attended rallies at the NY in the fall. students with opportunities to be a friendly smile and, “Zeh b’seder.” I sat State Capitol to increase minimum Here’s why they care… involved with Federation. I served back down avoiding eye contact with wage to $15. Now, we were moving to as president of the Chicago chapter the other students. Stamford and I had to give all of this during graduate school. I am also a Coming from Houston, my start of up. My dread grew when I learned The New Jewish Voice graduate of the Behrend Institute sixth grade in Modi’in was definitely that I had two realistic options for “The New Jewish Voice” (USPS #184) is published monthly by for Leadership program developed not the easiest. As a self-conscious school: the local public school, which the United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan by UJF and am currently on the UJF eleven-year-old girl, moving across the overwhelmed me with its thousands of and Darien Inc., 1035 Newfield Ave., Stamford, CT 06905-2521. Women’s Philanthropy Board. world was not easy. I was ready to enter kids, or a fledgling pluralistic Jewish www.ujf.org for updates and donations Allison: When we moved to Stam- middle school with my other friends high school, with fewer than thirty Ricky Arbron...... President ford, I was asked to be on the UJF in America, but instead, we moved to students. Would I return to a tiny Diane Sloyer...... CEO, Advertising Representative Women’s Philanthropy board. I Israel and I was in a completely new all-Jewish universe, the very thing I Advisory Committee served on the board for three years, world. My classmates didn’t speak my had been fleeing? During my visit to Meryl Gordon...... Chair and that was my introduction to language and they certainly didn’t the Jewish High School of Connecticut Meryl Japha, Nancy Schulman, Ellen Weber UJF and the good work that it does. act as I did. The girls in my class all (JHSC), I stubbornly wore my coat, Since that time, I have volunteered wore the same outfit, all brought zipped, arms crossed over my chest. Reporter Group Staff The Reporter Group edits and publishes The New Jewish Voice. for various UJF programs, serving as the same food, and all had the same “Will I be forced to pray?” I asked the Rabbi Rachel Esserman...... Executive Editor a committee member for the Wom- pencil cases. Meanwhile, I sat there head of school. “Of course not,” he Diana Sochor...... Layout Editor en’s Philanthropy Spring Dinner and with a completely different outfit, said “You can’t make kids pray.” His Ilene Pinsker...... Assistant Editor helping with the auction; a Reading “American” food for Aruchat eser (a answer surprised and impressed me. Jenn DePersis...... Production Coordinator Partner for three years; and a Super snack at ten o’clock), and a purple Although I was half convinced it would Bonnie Rozen...... Advertising Representative Kathy Brown...... Bookkeeper Sunday volunteer solicitor for mul- pencil case instead of a red one. I ruin my life, I chose JHSC. In the spirit tiple years. wish I had gotten the memo about of adolescent revenge, I relished the Opinions Describe the UJF programs you are how to show up for class. idea that I would be miserable and that The views expressed in editorials and opinion pieces are those of each author and not necessarily the views currently working on. How do they As the year progressed, I became my parents would feel tormented and of the United Jewish Federation. benefit the local community as well as more and more comfortable with He- guilty forever. the greater Jewish community? brew and Israeli culture. By mid-year, Sad and angry, I began 10th grade Letters Toby: I am on UJF’s Women’s I had become friendly with the girls in at JHSC in September 2016. In the The New Jewish Voice welcomes letters on subjects of interest to the Jewish community. All letters must be Philanthropy board. In this capacity, I my class, and had even made a few close first weeks of that year, someone in signed and include a phone number. The editor may have helped with the Women’s Philan- friends. Although I had started to feel my class invited me to a teen volunteer withhold the name upon request. thropy Spring Dinner and UJF’s Super comfortable in my new home, others event for Friendship Circle. I needed Kashruth Sunday, where we solicit donations. in my family were struggling with the friends and I needed something to We are not responsible for the Kashruth of any adver- The Women’s Philanthropy dinner, move. One night, my parents shared do, so I grudgingly agreed to attend. tiser’s product or establishment. which I co-chaired this year, was a with a heavy heart that we needed to Other invitations from kind classmates great opportunity for Jewish women return to the United States. followed; adults who were not my HOW TO REACH THE EDITOR: from our community to get together Just a year before, we had moved parents reached out to me. Someone Mail: Sandy Golove to socialize, learn about UJF, raise across the world, and now, again, the I barely knew brought me to “Coffee 1035 Newfield Ave. - Suite 200 money and hear a wonderful speak- same would happen. As my last day Break,” a weekly gathering where Stamford, CT 06905-2521 er. Author Dara Horn was this year’s in Israel approached, I said goodbye Jewish girls sat down to discuss every- E-mail: [email protected] guest speaker. to my new friends. The next morning thing from marrying a Jewish partner Phone: (203) 912-9945 Allison: I recently started help- we got on the plane, ready for another to organ donation to the existence of Send article submissions via e-mail to ing with UJF’s 3SQUARE program “new beginning.” This new beginning the soul. I went to the JCC to hear IDF Sandy Golove at [email protected] during the 2017-18 school year. I find started off as badly as the first. I was soldiers speak about their service, and marked “Stamford Voice” in the subject this a rewarding program to volun- not returning to Houston. Instead, I I attended “Soosh and Schmooze,” line. Expect an acknowledgement; teer for as it helps so many kids in was moving to Stamford. My time in where teens discussed the parasha over please re-send if you do not receive one. our public schools get the nutritious Israel had not been long enough. We kosher sushi. I began volunteering for HOW TO REACH THE food they need on the weekends. I had just started to find our place as Friendship Circle, visiting my nine ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVES: also had the opportunity to co-chair Israelis and I had just started to find year old Friendship Circle buddy every BONNIE ROZEN the 2018 Women’s Philanthropy myself as a young adult. week. There was no single moment Phone: 1-800-779-7896, ext. 244 Spring Dinner in May with my friend The rabbis teach us that “All begin- of transformation; rather, instead of E-mail: [email protected] Toby Lazarus. nings are difficult,” but you never know saying no to the Jewish community, I DIANE SLOYER Have you been involved with other how difficult until you experience one began saying yes. Phone: (203) 321-1373, ext. 105 Jewish organizations in the community for yourself. As a student in Jewish day I started my junior year with the E-mail: [email protected] or elsewhere? school my whole life, I have studied intention of taking on more respon- SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION: Toby: I currently work at Schoke hundreds of rabbinic teachings. How- sibilities. I joined the Teen Board of Phone: (203) 321-1373 JFS as the Brain Fitness coordinator. I ever, the most meaningful statements Friendship Circle and am often asked E-mail: [email protected] have been on the Parents’ Association are the ones that connect directly to my to give divrei Torah at Friendship Circle See “Care” on page 23 See “Fass” on page 23 See “Rosen” on page 23 SEPTEMBER 2018 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 23 Care Continued from page 22 board at Bi-Cultural Day School and have run its and I have met some of my closest friends. I feel it is nuity of the Jewish people, improve people’s lives book fair for years. I have been a member of the JCC important to give back to this welcoming community. and help the needy. Center Women’s board for over 15 years, and I am I also want my children to feel connected to their Allison: Because caring about and advocating for on the development committee for the Jewish High Judaism and particularly to Israel, and supporting Israel is so close to my heart, I know when I and others School of Connecticut. These are all agencies that these organizations helps them see how important support UJF, we are directly making an impact on a UJF supports. In addition, I am involved in Friends volunteer work is and how important community is. variety of social causes and agencies there. Besides of the Israel Defense Forces and we are members of tikkun olam is in my DNA. my love of Israel, I have tried to focus on being an Congregation Agudath Sholom. Allison: I developed a love of being Jewish early active volunteer since moving to Stamford. There is Allison: I am a life member of Hadassah, par- in my life. One experience that had a big impact something about the people here that inspires me ticipated in its book club and recently served on on me in high school at age 18 was going to Israel (and many others) to get involved and give. It is an the board as programming chair. While my chil- with the United Synagogue Youth. I had the op- amazing and caring community that has shown me dren attended Bi-Cultural Day School, I helped portunity to see the country and was inspired by the beauty and rewards of giving back. run the book fair, and at Westhill High School what the Israelis were able to accomplish building I was on the Scholarship Committee. My sons the modern state of Israel. I feel it is not only im- and I were regular volunteers for the Stamford portant to support my local community, but also Fass Continued from page 22 Youth Tennis Academy, which teaches the sport to support Israel. experiences. “All beginnings are difficult” is such a to underprivileged kids in our area. My younger In your opinion, why should others get involved statement. This new beginning shaped me into the son, Matt, and I were monthly volunteers with in UJF? person I am today. the Adult Friendship Circle this past year. It was Toby: The money raised for UJF supports many My year in Israel developed my resilience. Despite wonderful to give back to my community and of our community’s Jewish agencies as well as my challenges, I continued to work hard to become share this with my sons. programs in Israel and throughout the world. It’s an Israeli. This taught me to find my inner strength Why is it important for you to give back in this way? important for the Jewish community to support and use it to my advantage. Toby: As a mother of four, I live by the adage “it our institutions, especially during a time when My year in Israel taught me the importance of takes a village.” The Jewish community in Stamford there is a rise of antisemitism in our country and having a strong support network. Throughout the has been our village where my children were raised worldwide. These agencies help ensure the conti- year, my new friends, my old friends, and my family guided me in adapting to Israel. Arriving in Stam- ford, I looked for a similar support system to help Continued from page 22 me through the same journey. Rosen My year in Israel introduced me to a new way of events, including adult board meetings and galas. I zachor and tikkun olam (memory and acts of repair). living as a Jew. Never before had I felt so connected have become passionate about its mission of kind- Looking back, I am beyond grateful that at a time to the land, language, culture, and religion of the ness and inclusion. I was invited to participate in two of difficult beginnings, I did not completely push away place in which I lived. I no longer felt like an outsider, selective teen groups, “Speak Up for Israel,” through the Jewish world that ultimately helped to ground but now I truly belonged. the JCC, and “Kuriansky Teen Tzedakah Corps,” me and continues to allow me to grow. I am grateful My year in Israel helped me to become an educat- through UJF. “Speak Up for Israel” has strengthened that my initial resentments did not deter the people ed Israel advocate. I can now share my love of Israel and informed my Zionism. Kuriansky has brought around me from reaching out. I have not become with a passion and understanding that many are not to my attention the importance of philanthropy as more observant. I still struggle religiously. However, fortunate enough to have. well as the social service needs in my new Jewish the Jewish community of Stamford and JHSC invited Despite the heartache of moving to Israel and back, community; it is teaching me how to be a thoughtful me to re-learn the Jewish values of activism, tzedakah I am thankful for this opportunity. I now realize how consumer of the missions, programs and budgets of (righteousness), pluralism, tikkun olam and chesed lucky I am to have turned my new beginning into charitable organizations. The Jewish High School of (loving kindness). As I write this with Passover only an opportunity for growth. The matter of the fact Connecticut embraced my questions, doubts and days away, I find myself thinking about the stories of is, that beginnings are hard, but they are necessary. interests. At school, I coordinate Model United Na- an exiled people endlessly facing difficult beginnings, In the new beginnings each of us face every day, we tions and Debate Club, and I helped to organize the struggling, persevering and flourishing. realize our true potential. school walkout on March 14 to protest gun violence, This September, Celia Rosen will be a 12th-grader at Michal Fass will be a 12th-grader this September at SAR an event which embraced the twin Jewish values of Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy. High School.

ÊVisit www.ujf.org or facebook.com/stamfordFederation 24 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ SEPTEMBER 2018