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JewishA publication of the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires, serving V the Berkshires and surrounding ice NY, CT and VT Vol. 27, No. 8 Cheshvan/Kislev 5780 November 4 to December 1, 2019 jewishberkshires.org
Middle East Update 2019 Always in the Last Place You Look Kenneth M. Pollack of AEI to speak on the region’s Medieval Jewish treasures hidden for centuries upheavals in the era of Trump on November 10 on view at The Met Cloisters LENOX – On Sunday, November 10 at 2 p.m., the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires’ Middle East Update 2019 will feature Kenneth M. Pollack, resident scholar at the American Enterprise Institute (AEI) who works on political-military affairs, focusing in particular on Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and the Gulf countries. The program will be held in the Elaine Bernstein Theatre at Shakespeare & Company in Lenox, and is free and open to the public.
About the Speaker Kenneth Pollack began his career as a Persian Gulf military analyst at the CIA, where he was the principal author of the CIA’s classified post- mortem on Iraqi strategy and military operations during the Persian Gulf War. He is the author of ten books, includ- ing Unthinkable: Iran, the Bomb, and Kenneth M. Pollack American Strategy (named one of the The Colmar Treasure was uncovered in 1863 in Colmar, a city by the Rhine River, “Best Books of 2013” by The Economist in modern-day France. While renovating a confectionery shop on the rue des Juifs and one of the “100 Notable Books of Washington Post’s “Best Books of the (Street of the Jews), workmen stumbled upon a cache of medieval jewels and coins, 2013” by The New York Times); A Path Year” for 2008 and an editor’s choice of which will be on view at The Met Cloisters in Upper Manhattan through January 12, out of the Desert: A Grand Strategy for The New York Times Book Review); and 2020. According to the online catalogue, the 14th century wedding ring shown here America in the Middle East (one of The The Threatening Storm: The Case for is “the most technically accomplished example of goldsmith’s work in the Colmar Invading Iraq, a New York Times and Treasure. Its miniature dome and supporting arches mimic the imagined form of the Washington Post bestseller in 2002. lost Temple in Jerusalem, metaphorically connecting that site to the newlyweds’ His most recent book, published home. Hebrew letters spelling out ‘mazel tov’ (good luck) set a congratulatory tone, enhanced by red and traces of green enamel.” For more on the Colmar Treasure, Inside in 2018, is Armies of Sand: The Past, Present, and Future of Arab Military please see page 20. A Peek Behind the Scenes...... 2 Effectiveness, an analysis of why Arab armies have historically underper- Beyond Our Comfort Zone...... 3 formed despite considerable monetary Your Federation Presents...... 4-13 investment and extensive training by Local News...... 14-15 Western interests. Before joining AEI, a public Traveling With Jewish Taste...... 19 policy think tank in Washington, DC, MIDDLE EAST UPDATE, continued on page 6 We are almost there, In Good Times Prepare for Crisis but we need your help! Former World Bank economist Ira Lieberman If you have not yet made your gift to the explains why financial crises happen at November 8 2019 Annual Campaign there is Knosh & Knowledge still time to do so! GREAT BARRINGTON – On Friday, November 8 at 10:45 a.m., Knosh & Your gift will help us engage the next Knowledge welcomes former World generation, support the elderly and vulnerable, Bank expert on debt crises, Ira Lieberman, who will talk about his and sustain Jewish life all year round! book, In Good Times Prepare for Crisis, published by Brookings Institution JewishDonate Feder onlineation at jewishberkshires.org of the Berkshires ’ Press. 2019 Annual Campaign This Jewish Federation of the THANK YOU FOR MAKING A DIFFERENCE! Berkshires program will take place at GOAL $855,000 Hevreh of Southern Berkshire, and will be followed by a catered lunch. Prepaid ($11) lunch reservations required in 400 480 advance. Thanks to a generous under- 320 560 writer, lunch will feature an enhanced Ira Lieberman 240 640 menu. Email federation@jewishberk- shires.org, or call (413) 442-4360, ext. reforms in Russia from 1992 to 1995. 160 10, to RSVP. Based in the Washington, DC area, 720 Ira Lieberman worked for the World Lieberman and his wife, Phyllis, have a Bank from 1994 to 2003, helping home in Stockbridge. 80 855 resolve financial crises in Mexico, Lieberman’s book, In Good Times East Asia (primarily Korea), Turkey, Prepare for Crisis, is a sweeping his- and Argentina. He worked with the torical analysis of the reasons why Troika—the European Central Bank, nations, in good times, don’t really do DOING YOUR ANNUAL the European Commission, and the enough to prepare for the next crisis. It IMF—on crisis resolution in Portugal in also explores the consequences of the EXTRAORDINARY IMPACT CAMPAIGN 2013 and in Portugal and Spain on cri- economic unrest this inaction ulti- sis resolution in 2015. He also worked mately visits upon financial markets THINGS IS REAL 2019 on the initial pro-market economic LIEBERMAN, continued on page 4 Page 2 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org November 4 to December 1, 2019 In My View What’s Coming Up for Our Jewish Community? A Peek Behind the Scenes By Dara Kaufman As busy and crazy as life sometimes gets, I for our community. As we embark upon this New Year of 5780 together, here is am extremely grateful that Judaism makes time a “behind the scenes” update about what we will be working on in the coming for us to take a “break.” Whether it is the deep months. breath we take as we enter Shabbat or the deep Federation President Judy Usow, Vice President Josh Bloom, and I will be dive of thoughtful reflection to which we commit attending FedLab, a new initiative sponsored by the Jewish Federations of North during the High Holy Days, this time, set apart America. This 3-day laboratory will bring together leadership from Jewish com- from the daily grind, helps us to recharge and munities across North America for a deep dive into some of the most important replenish our souls for the work ahead. and complex issues facing the Jewish community through three main lenses: The Our recent Fed360 listening tour, focus Anti-Semitism and Anti-Israelism Agenda, #EngageJewish, and Action for Good in groups, and community survey have been an the 21st Century. unbelievable opportunity to take a moment out On December 8, Jewish teens and their parents will have a chance to hear of our “doing” to breathe deep and really listen to a Holocaust survivor speak and tour the new Auschwitz. Not Long Ago. Not Far what is most important to each of you in regard Away exhibit at the Jewish Heritage Museum: A Living Memorial to the Holocaust to Federation and our Jewish community. People in New York City. This bi-annual trip is sponsored by the Jewish Women’s were honest about their concerns, and people Foundation of Berkshire County with support from the Federation. were thoughtful and constructive about ways we can do things better and be Josh Bloom, who is one of the Berkshires’ lay leaders on the stronger together. Many themes began to emerge and we will report on them in Partnership2Gether Committee, will be traveling to Israel in January with leaders future articles, but one thing is for sure – the Berkshires is a community in which from other Southern New England coalition (SNEC) communities to learn more people support one another and lift one about the initiatives we support through another up in so many meaningful ways. our Afula-Gilboa partnership. There Josh We have great challenges ahead, but the The Berkshires is a community in which people will meet with local beneficiaries and the new year fills me with hope. support one another and lift one another up in so Israeli steering committee members as we Thank you to everyone who partici- plan our partnership opportunities for the pated. Thank you for embracing what it many meaningful ways. We have great challenges future. He looks forward to sharing more means to be a community and for sharing ahead, but the new year fills me with hope. about his trip when he returns. your voices, your ideas, and your gener- Susan Frisch Lehrer, Federation’s osity with Federation. We have so much volunteer coordinator, is looking for a strength to build upon. few good men and women to help fill in as friendly visitors for a number of local Over the fall and winter, our strategic planning task force will be reviewing the residents whose current visitors are flying south for the winter. If you are reliable, information we have gathered in order to create a meaningful path forward for the compassionate, and a good listener with an hour to spare each week, you can Federation – a path that will continue to strengthen us as a responsible and thriv- bring some joy and connection to an isolated community member. ing Jewish community. In response to the numerous inquiries I have already received (and it is still Federation is a busy place filled with passionate people including our only October as I write this), we will once again be lighting up the Berkshires hard-working board, staff, and volunteers, all of them pursuing important work with a community Chanukah celebration at Naumkaeg’s Winterlights Festival on December 29. Hundreds of people, young and old, joined us last year for this bright and joyous evening of singing and celebration. And finally, as part of the Federation’s ongoing efforts to support and enhance Jewish communal security in the Berkshires, we will be offering a free STOP THE Berkshire BLEED® training next spring with specialists from Berkshire Medical Center’s trauma program. STOP THE BLEED is a national awareness campaign and call- to-action intended to encourage bystanders, like you and me, to become trained and empowered to help in a bleeding emergency before professional help arrives. JA ewishpublicationA publication ofof the the Jewish Jewish Federation Federation of the Berkshires, of the serving Berkshires,V the Berkshires serving and surrounding the ice Berkshires NY, CT and VT and surrounding NY, CT and VT This free training can save lives and I encourage you to participate. The color photography in this issue of the Berkshire Jewish Of course, it is all of you who make the Federation’s work possible. Thank you for showing up with such energy, passion, and commitment. We are off to an Voice is made possible through the generosity of Robert excellent start this year and we are so excited about the work ahead. Bildner and Elisa Spungen Bildner, honorary publishers. Dara Kaufman is the executive director of the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires The staff of the Federation and the BJV are deeply grateful. Please see page 9 for more on Fed360.
Paid advertisements do not necessarily represent the opinions of CORRECTIONS the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires or its members. In our last issue, Lee Rogers should have been credited as the photographer for Federation’s summer concert. We regret the omission.
Our last In My View column should have noted that the services of Jill Goldstein, LICSW, are contracted by the Federation on behalf of the Berkshire Jewish community through Jewish Family Service of Western MA (JFS) in Springfield.
Berkshire
JAewish publicationA publication of of the the Jewish Jewish Federation Federation of the Berkshires, of the serving Berkshires, V the Berkshires serving and surrounding the ice Berkshires NY, CT and and VT surrounding NY, CT and VT
Published nine times a year by the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires
Dara Kaufman: Publisher and Managing Editor Robert Bildner and Elisa Spungen Bildner: Honorary Publishers Albert Stern: Editor Rose Tannenbaum: Graphic Design and Layout Jenny Greenfeld: Advertising Sales Representative and Assistant Editor
Editorial opinions expressed in the Berkshire Jewish Voice are those of the newspaper and not those of any individual. Signed editorials do not represent the view of the newspaper, but rather express the writer’s view. The Berkshire Jewish Voice is under no obligation to accept any advertisement. It does not guarantee the kashrut of any merchandise or service advertised. To have the BJV mailed to your home, please send a minimum donation of $18 Next issue publication date: December 2, 2019 – December 31, 2019 Thank you volunteers Ellen Rosenblatt and the BJV delivery team, Press deadline: October 25, 2019 • Advertising deadline: November 13, 2019 Michael Albert, Roman Rozenblyum, and Colin Ovitsky Berkshire Jewish Voice e-mail: [email protected] Phone: (413) 442-4360, ext. 11 Fax (413) 443-6070 Cheshvan/Kislev 5780 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 3 Rabbi Reflection Going a Step Beyond Our Comfort Zone By Rabbi Levi Volovik
Welcome to a new year. The past month of found truth. His eloquent testimony to the existence of a Creator was shared Tishri, with its High Holy Days, brought with it with all those he encountered, and he was dedicated to his mission of elevat- a wide range of emotions, carefully packaged in ing humanity and bringing honor and glory to G-d’s name. Despite the difficul- 30 glorious days. Like a ride on a roller coaster, ties, Abraham complied with every request, and he passed every test with flying we soared upward and around, reaching greater colors. heights. We went from soul-searching introspec- Abraham’s directive “to go” is still continuing through us. Inspired by his tion to resolve, from the solemnity and awe-in- faith and motivated by his alacrity in fulfilling the wishes of the One Above and spiring days of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur his mission in uplifting the world through lovingkindness, we, too, forge ahead to the joyful days of Sukkot and the ecstatic toward a brighter and better world. As we resume mundane life that sometimes dancing of Simchat Torah. floods us with problems and challenges, Abraham’s outlook empowers us to not We experienced the full gamut of expression of simply swim with the tide, but to lift our eyes to see the ray of hope in every situa- body and soul through our prayers, hearing the tion, and to know that every difficulty leads to a more purposeful, productive, and stirring sounds of the shofar, and through the meaningful life. joy in fulfilling the mitzvot of sukkah, etrog, and The Midrash relates a rabbinic narrative that took place when Abraham set lulav. And as we leave the month and enter the out to fulfill the most difficult of his trials, taking his beloved son, Isaac, to the new month of MarCheshvan, which has no holidays of its own, we are off on the altar. As he approached his destination from afar, accompanied by Isaac and start of a new year. his servants, he turned to his beloved Isaac and said, “My son, what do you see It is our hope that we all earned a shana tovah, a good and sweet new year for ahead? Do you see what I see?” And Isaac responded, “I see a magnificent, blos- ourselves, just like the good years we wished for one another. A look at the word soming mountain, reaching the heights in its full glory and majesty.” And then “shana” (year) tells us that it shares the same three-lettered Hebrew root as the Abraham turned to his servants and asked the same question. “We see nothing word “repetition.” And if the yearly cycle is repetitious, what makes it a new year? ahead,” they answered, “only wasteland, desert, and desolation.” Abraham then The answer is that the word “shana,” proudly walked ahead with Isaac, with one different vowel, also spells who shared his vision of a promising the word for “change.” It’s the personal We see a beautiful path ahead, blossoming and future, leaving his pessimistic servants positive change that we are going to behind. make in our lives that will now start us flourishing with creativity, activity, and a Judaism Although today’s pundits want to off on a truly new year. that is alive and vibrant tell us that the world is coming to an It’s going a step beyond our comfort end in 10 years, here at Chabad of the zone. It’s breaking an old habit, taking Berkshires, we share Abraham’s mis- on a new mitzvah, sharing an act of kindness, and the recommitment to our val- sion and his vision, knowing that Torah is eternal, and our existence as a people ues and our traditions to achieve goals above and beyond the past year. is eternal – Am Yisrael Chai! We are thankful to our Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. The month of Tishri is the catalyst for starting off with reinforced strength Schneerson, for giving us the opportunity to share that vision with our special and determination, and the personal changes it will take, to make the year ahead community, as do thousands of Chabad emissaries respectively around the globe. what it should be – better, brighter, and fresher in every area of our lives. Now is Encouraged by the support of our many friends of Chabad, we see a beautiful the time to “unpack” our bag of inspiration, which includes Tishri’s feeling of one- path ahead, blossoming and flourishing with creativity, activity, and a Judaism ness with G-d, of unity with others and the joy that we garnered during the entire that is alive and vibrant. We see a community ensuring the future for ourselves month, to infuse any and all spiritual lethargy with renewed energy. and for our children through our commitment to Torah learning and Jewish edu- Reading the recent Torah portions of the week, we are further inspired by cation. We see ourselves unified as one people, no matter what our background our ancestor, Abraham, in the portion of Lech Le’cha. And always, guided by and affiliation, working together toward higher ideals and goals in life. With our past, we find our road map for the future. Abraham was faced with one of change in the right direction on the part of every one of us – and, indeed, every- his many tests, having to leave the land and the home he was accustomed to for one has room for improvement – there is no limit to what we can accomplish for 75 years of his life and go to the place that G-d would show him. His destina- our families, our people, our community, and our society at large. tion uncertain, Abraham was nevertheless quick to respond to G-d’s command. Abraham blazed a trail. He looked at the world, searched for the Owner and Rabbi Levi Volovik is co-director of Chabad of the Berkshires in Pittsfield Letters to the Editor
Standing in Support of Essential Legal Services in Women’s Foundation Grant Helps Handicapped Berkshire County Youth Learn, Exercise, and Thrive Dear Jewish Women's Foundation, Dear Jewish Women's Foundation, The Jewish Women’s Foundation of Berkshire County’s $3,150 grant will have On behalf of our board of directors, staff, and volunteers, I extend heartfelt a meaningful impact on clients of the Berkshire Center for Justice (BCJ). We are appreciation to you and all the members of the Jewish Women’s Foundation of grateful for your support, and proud to be chosen from a large field of deserving Berkshire County for your tremendous support of our recreational therapy pro- applicants. Your contribution is profoundly meaningful to us. gram for youth with special needs at the Boys and Girls Club of the Berkshires. In addition to your generous grant, may I add that on a personal level, it is But more so, I thank you on behalf of all the kids who come into our club and extremely gratifying to know that BCJ is supported in our community. Thank you benefit from this wonderful program, which provides a place where handicapped for standing in support of our unique and essential services that are so beneficial youth can learn, exercise, and thrive. to our community. The Jewish Women’s Foundation contribution makes it possible for our com- munity’s youth to benefit from all aspects of recreational therapy. With school in With gratitude for your generosity, session, our special needs youth are taking full advantage of the club’s programs Eve Schatz, Esq., Executive Director and opportunities. Berkshire Center for Justice Great Barrington Sincerest thanks to all of you! Kathleen Phillips, Marketing & Resource Development Director Boys and Girls Club of the Berkshires Camp – A Really Important Jewish Experience Pittsfield Dear Jewish Federation of the Berkshires, Thank you for helping to pay for my experience at Camp Ramah in Palmer. It was a really important Jewish experience, and I felt that I got to connect with An Unexplainable, Energetic Feeling of Joy and other Jewish people my age. I had a good time in my chugim and loved spending Happiness That is Very Contagious time with my friends. Dear Jewish Federation of the Berkshires, Sincerely, Thank you so much for helping the energy level was sky high and very Ellie Caine to provide me with the opportunity contagious. It was impossible to feel Richmond to attend Crane Lake Camp for three anything less than energetic when the weeks this summer; it was an incredi- whole camp is up and dancing to clas- ble experience! sic Jewish songs. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR At camp, there is an unexplainable, Also, since I enjoy sports so much, The Berkshire Jewish Voice welcomes signed letters on subjects of interest to the energetic feeling of joy and happiness getting to play them every day was Jewish community. Letters are printed upon space availability. The BJV reserves that is very contagious. I think one of amazing! Another really cool part the right to edit all letters for content, length, and style. The BJV does not print the reasons that the atmosphere is so about camp was being able to become anonymous letters, insults, libelous or defamatory statements. Published letters do amazing is because every kid at camp really close with my counselors. In my not represent the views of the Federation, its board of directors, or the newspaper, knows that everyone else is just like bunk, we had an international coun- but rather express the views of their authors. For verification purposes, please in- them – Jewish. selor, which was really cool because clude full name, home address, and a day and evening telephone number. Send My favorite parts of camp were we got to learn about different cultures letters to: Berkshire Jewish Voice, 196 South Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201, or email: either Maccabia or the daily and from around the world! [email protected]. Shabbat services. Even though my Again, thanks for helping to provide team (White Phoenix) lost during Color me with this amazing opportunity of a War, it was still an incredibly amazing lifetime. experience and I really felt like part of a huge team! I also really loved the Sincerely, Donate • Volunteer services. To me, a large part of camp Aliza Munch Make a Difference was the fact that I could really show Lenox my Jewish identity. During services, Page 4 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org November 4 to December 1, 2019 Your Federation Presents
LIEBERMAN, continued from page 1 Bagehot came out with his financial industry] doesn’t because they want to give famous work on the role of the work.” Nouriel Roubini more to shareholders, but it lender of last resort. His view observed: “In the end the also means that the guys who and the general population. (including George Soros), and was that a country’s central significance of government run these institutions, who A lack of memory about, or shares his first-hand experi- bank should be in a position action was dwarfed by the earn most of their compen- an incomplete understanding ence of how recent crises have to save the financial system by significance of government sation on return on capital, of, a previous financial debt been handled. following certain basic rules; inaction.” Henry Paulson’s don’t get the same very large crisis will lead policymakers to At the November 8 Knosh and so the first concept of a view is that “we were liv- paychecks. Greed knows no ignore the signs of impending & Knowledge, Lieberman says lender of last resort was that ing beyond our means – on boundaries. crises, writes Lieberman. A he will draw on his experience of a national central bank in borrowed money and on Another weakness is the failure to adequately apply the as an economist and historian an economy. That was the role borrowed time.” Timothy Federal Reserve is no longer lessons learned in the after- to explain how financial crises that the US Federal Reserve Geithner wrote: “The fun- able to do a banking bailout math of these upheavals cre- arise, why the early 21st cen- played together with the US damental causes of this without coming to Congress. ates a vicious cycle in which tury has been so economically Department of Treasury and crisis…began with a mania The Treasury is precluded yesterday’s unresolved crisis volatile, and what the future Federal Deposit Insurance – the widespread belief that from using an emergency plants the seeds for tomor- might hold. In September, Corporation in the recent devastating financial crises fund for bailouts, so the whole row’s economic calamity. he spoke to the BJV’s Albert crisis. The three of them got were a thing of the past.” concept the bailouts would What’s more, given today’s Stern; this is an edited version together and they interdependent global finan- of their conversation. collectively became cial marketplace, one nation’s the lender of last While we have a low growth/low inflation financial or sovereign debt A high-level question – resort to the US crisis might quickly morph what is a sovereign debt situation, we have a high debt, a weak political banking system, into a regional or worldwide crisis? and the non-bank environment, and laws that don’t support emergency, in the manner of The crises I’ll be talking financial system the 2008 recession that rocked about through historical dealing with a crisis – for example, advanced economies in North periods, all of them more or entities like General Motors And finally, Alan Blinder, imply going to Congress. Now, America, Europe, and Asia. less went into sovereign debt Acceptance Corporation who wrote: “The US finan- can you imagine going to this Per the book’s subtitle, crises. But they could have (GMAC) and the investment cial system...had grown too Congress in time of extreme “From the Great Depression started as a stock market banks Lehman Brothers and complex and far too fragile crisis and getting consensus to the Great Recession: crash or real estate crash or a Goldman Sachs. They all had for its own good – and had from the Congress? Many of Sovereign Debt Crises and financial crisis with banks get- to lean on [a lender of last too little regulation for the the economists I know say this Their Resolution,” Lieberman ting in trouble. So crises can resort] to bail them out. public good.” What is your is at the crux of our prob- provides a long view of how manifest themselves in many As the global economy take on it? lem now – we don’t believe financial crises occur and ways. A sovereign debt crisis expanded, it All of the above. When I the political system is such became clear that give my presentation, I’ll share that we could do what we did Each of the historical crises started with a bust many countries did little chart which shows that during the Bush and Obama of a mania of some kind not have a cen- each of the historical crises years. Leading up to Obama’s tral bank that was started with a bust of a mania election, they had to deal with sufficiently robust or strong of some kind, like the famous McCain and Obama, who were inevitably recur. Put in the is when a country becomes so enough to deal with the kind 1929 stock market crash. In running for office – but those simplest possible terms, a sov- highly indebted that it really of bad debts incurred. So this case the speculation was guys agreed to play ball and ereign debt crisis occurs when can’t finance its basic needs. then there comes the need for in real estate, much of it is not politicize the crisis or the a debtor nation has borrowed It can’t finance its budget or what we know as an interna- associated with soft money in solution. Can you imagine more money from a creditor pay for public goods – that tional lender of last resort. For the economy at very low cost Trump not politicizing it? nation that it can repay. At the can be education, that can be emerging market countries, for a long time. That [kind of So I don’t think we have end of World War II, econom- food subsidies, that can be it’s become the International debt] accumulates very quickly. the will, I don’t think we have ically-advanced nations put health care, that can be lots of Monetary Fund (IMF), sup- But the regulatory issues are the leadership, and, by the into place a monetary order important things. ported by the World Bank, and the ones that shocked me – way, the central bank is still designed to mitigate the eco- So when we talk about a regional development banks and it’s still a big problem in overloaded. Its balance sheet nomic and political conse- sovereign debt crisis, we talk like the Asian Development this country – because much of is very indebted because of quences of financial upheaval, about a country being highly Bank or the Inter-American the accumulated debt was not quantitative easing – the soft its success hinging on the indebted, and usually the rea- Development Bank. For the in the conventional banking money that was given to the ability of “lenders of last son it becomes a crisis is they Euro Zone countries, the system. All the conventional banking system in terms of resort” such as national banks owe that money not in their European Central Bank might banks had their problems, as long-term bonds in order to and multilateral financial own currency but in a foreign have been able to play that role well, but it was investment keep interest rates from rising institutions to prevent a crisis exchange. [The borrowing] is on its own, except the Germans banks and other non-bank dramatically. So while we have from spiraling into catastro- usually tied to trade, but often and other countries in the financial institutions and the a low growth/low inflation phe. In Good Times Prepare for borrowing becomes short-term region did not want it to go on government-backed institu- situation, we have a high debt, Crisis explains how this inter- in nature. When short-term their own to bail out what they tions Fannie Mae and Freddie a weak political environment, national monetary order came debt not tied to trade accu- call the weaker countries in Mac that had very little equity. and laws that don’t support to be and continues to operate. mulates, often that’s tied to the region. So the European Leverage was enormous prob- dealing with a crisis. And of While a book of this scope waste and very often linked Central Bank developed this lem and no one was regulating course, we have high deficits. may seem daunting to the to corruption, so countries troika with the IMF and then the investment banks except If we were to have a series general reader, Lieberman that have been known to be the European Commission to the Federal Trade Commission, of events together – namely, writes in clear, jargon-free corrupt and have borrowed become became the lender of but that was more on the cor- if the Chinese trade negotia- prose about economics, and abroad then begin to run out last resort. porate side, not on financial tions fail and Trump moves logically connects the histor- of foreign exchange. They can’t leverage or financing. Some of to impose heavy tariffs on ical dots among the financial pay their external debts and You quote several noted the biggest banks went “regu- China; if we have Brexit; if crises to illuminate monetary they get into what’s known as economists about the root latory shopping” and lobbied we have continued conflict in policy in the 20th and 21st a sovereign debt crisis. causes of the US finan- their way into getting their the Straits of Hormuz and oil centuries. Having held high- cial crisis of 2008. Joseph own regulator. At one point of shipments are threatened; if level positions at the World Can you explain the role Stiglitz wrote: “The cri- crisis [Fannie Mae and Freddie we have a failure of a big oil Bank, Lieberman has worked of a “lender of last resort”? sis has made it clear that Mac] represented 50 percent nation like Venezuela – now, with governments, corpora- In the 19th century, the self-regulation [by the of mortgage financing in the we don’t have to have them tions, banks, and financiers English economist Walter country…and they had their all, but if we have a series of own regulators. events like this, that will erode confidence. A large-scale world Latkes, Donuts, Ho-Hum – How About As I read your conclu- crisis is more than likely – sions, you seem to imply the people I read and talk to, Bimuelos Instead? that the lessons of the last that’s what scares them. GREAT BARRINGTON – On Saturday, December financial crisis have not 7 from 4 to 5:30 p.m. at Berkshire South really taken root in the IF YOU GO Regional Community Center, PJ Library and culture of the financial Sponsor: Jewish Federation of Federation families are invited for a Sephardic- industry. What do you see the Berkshires inspired Chanukah celebration, and to cook happening in the future if this delicious Chanukah delight - bimuelos! crises are not resolved in a Date & Time: Friday, November 8 at 10:45 a.m. Join together with PJ Library Family Connector meaningful way? Sarah Aroeste Blaugrund to fry some dough, The Dodd-Frank Act did a Venue: Hevreh of Southern enjoy an arts-and-crafts project, and read The lot to strengthen the banking Berkshire, 270 State Road, Great Barrington Hanukkah Moon, a Sephardic story. A short system – not everything, but havdalah will be included. a lot. Some of the basic tools Cost: $11 with fresh buffet lunch. Free admission to And it’s all FREE! Children of all ages wel- to resolve crises were either program only. come. RSVP by December 4 by calling (413) taken away or not provided, 442-4360, ext. 10, or by emailing federation@ however. So the strengthen- Advance lunch reservations and prepayment required for this jewishberkshires.org. Berkshire South Regional ing was forcing the banks to event. Community Center is located at 15 Crissey increase their capital base, Road, Great Barrington. Meet in the lounge. which they’re constantly fight- Email federation@jewishberk- ing because increasing capital shires.org, or call (413) 442- Right: Sarah Aroeste Blaugrund frying up some means less return on equity. 4360, ext. 10 bimuelos So they’re constantly fighting Cheshvan/Kislev 5780 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 5 Your Federation Presents Easy Chair Yoga for Living in a Time of Climate Change – Flexibility, Mobility, and Responding to the Crisis Peace of Mind On Thursday, November 7 at 10:45 a.m., the Jewish On Thursday, December 5 Federation of the Berkshires at 10:45 a.m., join Linda presents “Living in a Time of Novick for “Easy Chair Yoga Climate Change” with three for Flexibility, Mobility, and speakers tackling different Peace of Mind.” This free pro- aspects of this issue in our gram at Knesset Israel, 16 Colt community. This free program Road in Pittsfield is part of at Knesset Israel, 16 Colt the Jewish Federation of the Road, in Pittsfield, is part of Berkshires’ Connecting With the Federation’s Connecting Community series. With Community series. Linda Novick says: “Chair The presenters: Yoga is appropriate for peo- Stu Besnoff has a BS and ple of all levels of mobility. It a master’s in Engineering is a series of breathing and encourage gentle stretching, from Rensselaer Polytechnic stretching exercises done in a proper breathing, strength and Institute. He is a Navy Veteran Extinction Rebellion (XR). and to share concerns and chair, which increases mobil- balance. She attended Pratt and has taught science and Pat Konecky works as questions, as well as informa- ity of the joints, flexibility, Institute in Brooklyn and has technology. Through his a capital project manager tion, about some options for strength and stamina. Some a BFA in art education, and business, Alpine Solar, he in New York City, focusing engagement in our area. We of the exercises are performed has taught art for 50 years. has been advising clients and on energy-efficient, low-im- will break down recent reports standing behind the chair, She’s been teaching yoga building solar installations pact buildings. She has also about the climate crisis in while holding on. Participants since 1997, and lately has for the past ten years. He is a worked against the expansion order to better understand the will learn breathing techniques been focusing on easy yoga climate activist and has been of fossil fuel infrastructure, various ways it will increas- to enhance lung capacity, as for elders. She taught on staff a member and coordinator of particularly hydrofracking ingly impact life on earth. We’ll well as easy stretches and at Kripalu Center for 7 years, 350Mass-Berkshires. in the Marcellus Shale in discuss some local efforts to yoga postures. Yoga is good and is now a regular pre- Judy Eddy has worked New York. More recently, she encourage a broader public for all bodies. Beginners are senter, offering programs that with non-profits for over 30 has been a coordinator with response, that is to press our welcome.” combine painting and yoga. years, primarily in land con- 350Mass-Berkshires and a leaders to actively address this Linda Novick, MFA, is an She’s the author of the book, servation and environmental member of the 350Mass State global emergency.” author, teacher, artist, and The Painting Path: Embodying protection. She has worked Steering team. Pat is a mem- professional level Kripalu Spiritual Discovery through for Hudson Riverkeeper and ber of the Green Committee IF YOU GO Yoga teacher. She currently Yoga, Brush and Color. the Berkshire Environmental for the town of Egremont, and teaches yoga at Berkshire Action Team (BEAT), and of the Public Transportation Sponsor: Jewish Federation West Fitness Center and of the Berkshires / Connecting IF YOU GO she has freelanced exten- Advisory Committee work- Kimball Farms, and all over sively for non-profits of all ing for improved bus service With Community the Commonwealth with Sponsor: Jewish Federation kinds. Now a climate activist, throughout the Berkshires. Venue: Knesset Israel the Massachusetts Housing of the Berkshires / Connecting Judy works with Living the From our presenters: “Our Date & Time: Thursday, Novem- Authority. With Community Change Berkshires, 350Mass- objective in this program is to ber 7 at 10:45 a.m., followed by She explains that her Venue: Knesset Israel Berkshires and the newly- actively engage with partici- lunch (see page 18). approach to yoga encourages Date & Time: Thursday, Decem- formed Berkshire chapter of pants about the climate crisis everyone to listen and love ber 5 at 10:45 a.m., followed by their body. Her yoga classes lunch (see page 18).
Donate ~ Volunteer ~ Make a Difference Page 6 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org November 4 to December 1, 2019 Your Federation Presents
MIDDLE EAST UPDATE, continued from page 1
Pollack was affiliated with the more opportunity for our vital interests. That, again, is a Persian Gulf oil, all the agreement. We don’t know if Brookings Institution, where adversaries in the region and just a wild reversal of 40 to fracking, all of the strategic Jared Kushner’s plan will be he was a senior fellow at the that’s exactly what I’m see- 75 years of American policy. reserves, all of the increased mutually beneficial, mutually Saban Center for Middle East ing – I see our allies terrified They’ve looked at the situa- production from places like tolerable, or even mutually Policy. Before that, he was the that the United States just tion and said that ‘without Iraq, could not compensate. intolerable. All of this is very center’s director and director isn’t playing the role that it the Americans, we can’t fight worrisome to the Palestinians, of research. He served twice at once did, despite the fact that the Iranians, we simply don’t It seems that the Trump who don’t believe that they’re the National Security Council, President Trump keeps talking have the capacity to do so.’ So, administration is putting a going to get a peace deal that first as director for Near East incredibly tough. they’re being forced at least for lot of faith in and devoting actually recognizes balanced and South Asian affairs and the moment to accommodate resources to Israel, which and fair terms for their side of then as director for Persian How is that manifesting the Iranians – they have felt sometimes seems predicated the deal. What the US seems Gulf affairs. Dr. Pollack has itself now? that they have to go and kiss on the idea that Israel can to be offering them is money – also worked on long-term At the most basic level, the ring in Tehran to try to get take care of itself and will ‘We’ll buy you off in return for issues related to Middle our greatest adversary in the the Iranians to stop attack- do so as the dominant power you agreeing, more or less, to Eastern political and military region, Iran, has made very ing them. We need to recog- in the region. Is that a fair what the Israelis want.’ That’s affairs for the Joint Chiefs of significant gains in Lebanon, nize that this state of affairs observation? very disconcerting to the Staff when he was a senior Syria, Iraq, and Yemen. And is one where the Iranians are I know that that is a very Palestinians, and of course the research professor at the our allies are being forced to being emboldened. I think common American perception fact that the Trump adminis- Institute for National Security make choices about dilem- that we are likely to see more and I can certainly under- tration keeps saying that the Studies at National Defense mas that they never wanted attacks and more support to stand why, but if you were deal is going to be forthcoming University. to confront. The Israelis have their allies and our adversar- to speak to any Israeli they and yet it never comes forward become even more aggressive, ies across the region. At some would tell you that that is is also disconcerting to a lot The Middle East in the and they’re not only striking point, I think the Gulf states completely mistaken. And I of people who are worried Trump Era Iranian targets in Syria with in particular are going to think that they’re absolutely that this is not a deal that’s going to fly under any set of In early October, Kenneth M. abandon, they’re now going decide that ‘if the Americans right. Because while it is true circumstances. Pollack spoke with BJV editor after running targets in Iraq, won’t defend us, we’re not Albert Stern about his upcom- as well. And there have been going to be able to fight the ing talk in the Berkshires. clashes up near the Golan. Iranians in the conventional The real strategic issues that Israel faces in What follows is an edited The Israelis feel like they are level and the only resort we’re the long term are enormous problems that version of their conversation fighting a low-level war against going to have is to acquire condensed for space and Iran all across the region, and nuclear weapons.’ Israel cannot possibly handle on its own clarity. of course that’s been their choice. But it’s not something Is this retreat from Let’s start by revisit- that they wanted to do, and engagement a tougher line the Trump more or less allows Your most recent book, ing some of your remarks it’s something that I would that reflects that the idea the Israelis to do whatever Armies of Sand, explores from your 2017 talk at our argue we should not want to that countries have to do they want, what the Israelis why Arab armies have been Middle East Update. One of see them do. This is not going more to defend themselves, understand is that they can’t historically ineffective. Why the things you said would to end well for them, for us, for similar to what Trump has solve their own problems. They did you choose this topic, be essential was for the anyone. said to our NATO allies, for have no ability to solve the and how does it relate to United States to engage in The Saudis and the example? Palestinian issue by them- some of the things we’ve the Middle East with much Emirati, our [Persian] Gulf He may tell himself that selves, they have no ability been talking about this greater resources. Do you allies, face the same dilemma, that’s what he’s doing – I’m to solve the threat from Iran morning? feel as if that has happened but of course they don’t have not at all convinced that that by themselves, they have no [Pollack, in an article for in the last two years? the military capability that is the case. I just don’t think ability to deal with the fact Foreign Policy, identified over- No, unfortunately, I don’t. Israel commits. So, what he’s terribly interested in for- that the Sunni Arab states arching problems as fraught What I see is the Trump they’ve seen is the failure of eign affairs or any of this stuff. are extremely fragile and that civil-military relations of the administration effectively the United States to help them The only thing he seems to be they desperately need help interested in the Persian Gulf to reform themselves and Arab world that has caused is what goes on with Israel, strengthen themselves. Israel many Arab rulers to be so There’s an overarching sense of [US] which I think has clear domes- can’t deal with any of those “frightened of being over- neglect, which in many ways is even more tic ramifications for him, and problems, and those are the thrown by ambitious generals what goes on with Iran, which real problems that Israel faces. that they purposely hobble dangerous and certainly more frightening he has pitched as ‘Obama has It’s nice for a right wing the armed forces to keep them to our allies in the Middle East got a terrible deal I can get a Israeli government to be weak”; a lack of full industri- better one.’ Over the last four told by the United States, alization in the Arab world, with the result that “Arab just walking away from the months, he’s been fawning ‘you know we will move our personnel often failed to get Middle East – not even in the defend themselves, and let’s all over the Iranians trying embassy to Jerusalem and the full potential out of their kind of more deliberate and remember that for 75 years, desperately to get them back recognize your control over the weapons and invariably failed determined way that Obama the United States has had to the table, not understand- whole city of Jerusalem and to maintain them properly”; did. It seems strange to say an informal alliance – but a ing that his own policies have acknowledge your annexation and “Arab cultural-educa- it, but Obama kind of under- very important alliance – with made it close to impossible. of the Golan Heights.’ But the tional practices [that have] stood what he was doing and Saudi Arabia that expanded to Trump misunderstands oil bigger problems that Israel conditioned too many of their was trying to be very delib- include the other Gulf states. markets. I think that’s a com- faces – the real strategic issues personnel to remain passive at erate about it. I think what They would provide a stable monplace belief that because that Israel faces in the long lower levels of any hierarchy he did was problematic, but oil market, which was and of US shale oil production and term – are enormous problems and to manipulate information at least there was a kind of continues to remain critical to some other changes in the that Israel cannot possibly to avoid blame,” thus undercut- a conscious thought being our economy, and in return we structure of the oil market, we handle on its own. It desper- ting the effectiveness of junior directed to it. What I see with would defend them from exter- no longer need to worry about ately needs the United States officers in making battlefield Trump is just neglect, where nal threats. Well, Trump has oil from the Persian Gulf. to lead an effort to deal with decisions.] he’s not understanding what thrown that out the window. And that’s not really correct. them, and they are furious I started out as a Middle he’s doing – making decisions The Saudis have been What many Americans and, I and frustrated and terrified East military analyst and what on the spur of the moment, repeatedly attacked by the suspect, the president himself that the United States is mak- you learn as a Middle East not responding when things Iranians, and not only is the do not recognize is that the ing zero effort to do so. military analyst is that the happen over there that affect United States done nothing, world economy still is heav- Also, Trump hasn’t actually most important element of the American interests. And so but we have made state- ily dependent on Persian Gulf put forward his peace proposal very stable military balance there’s an overarching sense ments which are outra- oil – about 30 percent of all on the Israeli/Palestinian that we’ve had in the region of [US] neglect, which in many geous to them, saying that the exported oil in the world issue. What we’ve seen from over 70 years has been the ways is even more dangerous we don’t regard any threat still comes from the Persian him so far are efforts to kind utter ineffectiveness of the and certainly more frighten- or any attack on anyone but Gulf, and that is expected to of buy Palestinian tolerance ing to our allies in the Middle American stuff (whether it’s remain true for at least 10, if or acquiescence to what MIDDLE EAST UPDATE, East. I think it creates even people or just our toys, like not 20, years down the road. If seems like what’s going to the drone) as a threat to our there were a major disruption be a very pro-Israel peace continued on page 7
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MIDDLE EAST UPDATE, continued from page 6 The Process of Aging, with Maggie Bittman Arab armies. This has allowed region to take up the burden On Monday, November 25 aloneness; and engaging free Israel, the United States, and and defend themselves. The at 10:45 a.m., the Jewish will. other countries like Russia to problem is we can’t do that Federation of the Berkshires Bittman will highlight how completely dominate. It took because they simply cannot presents “Intergenerational: this is a lifelong process, and them 30 or 40 years but the defend themselves. They do The Process of Aging” with the ways people return to Arab states figured out ‘we not have the ability to stand therapist Maggie Bittman. This these existential truths at each just can’t defend ourselves up to the Iranians, let alone to free program at Knesset Israel, stage of life with the added and we can’t attack each the Russians or the Chinese, if 16 Colt Road, in Pittsfield, wisdom that comes with aging. other, we just don’t have the they came in. What we’ve seen is part of the Federation’s Within this context, partici- military capability.’ [That is] is even when they intervene Connecting With Community pants will discuss, share and an incredibly important driver against each other – like the series. offer support, as they explore of the military balance in the Saudis intervening in Yemen – This program will provide these existential truths. region. I will also say that their military capabilities are an opportunity to be part of a it’s just kind of a fascinating so limited that they tend to group dialogue, created and IF YOU GO mystery. This is been going overstrain themselves and risk facilitated by Bittman, who on for so long, and they are so their own political and eco- will explain her outlook and Sponsor: Jewish Federation of bad, so incompetent, that it’s nomic collapse. approach, emphasizing that the Berkshires / Connecting With a just huge mystery that any That looms really large aging begins at birth. She will Community number of people have sought for the United States. One of discuss how all of us are con- Venue: Knesset Israel to answer. I felt as I read other things I also try to do in the fronted with four existential Date & Time: Monday, Novem- people’s work that they just book is to talk about, both in truths as we age – the search ber 25 at 10:45 a.m., followed Therapist Maggie Bittman weren’t doing so systematically the long term and the short to find meaning and purpose; by lunch (see page 18). or methodically. They would term, how the United States facing mortality; experiencing just offer up some kind of one- can do better in helping them off explanation and provide overcome these problems. one or two anecdotes as if that And there are some answers. was evidence. The longer-term answers are Current Affairs: Contemporary American I felt like it was a very obviously better, but even the important intellectual ques- shorter term are very useful. and International Politics tion, but then there’s also a I’ve been very pleased with the critical strategic element for responses I’ve gotten from the On Thursday, November 21 Steven J. Rubin the United States which does US military who have read the at 10:45 a.m., join Professor is professor emeri- bear very heavily what you book who’ve said that what Steven J. Rubin for “Current tus of international and I have been talking about. I’m suggesting we do makes Affairs: Contemporary studies and former In an ideal world, the United infinite good sense. American and International dean of the College of States could say that we’ve Politics.” This course will meet Arts and Sciences at to discuss and explore current Adelphi University, been helping the Middle East IF YOU GO for long enough, that we’ve issues that influence our lives Garden City, NY. invested enough blood and The program begins at 2 p.m. and society at large. This free He is the author of treasure (and the truth is we and is free and open to the program at Knesset Israel, 16 numerous books haven’t invested nearly as public. It will take place at Colt Road in Pittsfield is part and articles and frequently Shakespeare & Company’s Elaine much blood and treasure as of the Jewish Federation of the lectures both here and abroad Bernstein Theatre, 70 Kemble we think), but we’ve invested Berkshires’ Connecting With on such topics as interna- Street in Lenox. IF YOU GO enough blood and treasure. Community series. tional anti-Semitism, Jewish For more information, call the Topics will be chosen by history, popular culture, and Sponsor: Jewish Federation of We’d like to step back and the Berkshires / Connecting With Jewish Federation of the Berk- Professor Rubin in consul- literature. His radio play “Dem we’d really like our allies in the shires, (413) 442-4360, ext. 10. Community tation with the class and in Bums: The Rise and Demise Venue: Knesset Israel view of the issue’s relevance. of the Brooklyn Dodgers” was Members will be encouraged broadcast live on National Date & Time: Thursday, Novem- For further information on all Jewish Federation to participate in discussions Public Radio in December ber 21 at 10:45 a.m., followed by lunch (see page 18). of the Berkshires programs, please call to express views and opinions 2017 and can be currently Nancy Maurice Rogers, Program Director, in a supportive and informal heard online. at (413) 442-4360, ext.15. atmosphere. Educating the Community An Evening with Mark Feuerstein About Immigrants in the WILLIAMSTOWN – The Over the past 15 years, Berkshires, Then and Now Berkshire Jewish community Feuerstein has received critical On Thursday, November 14 doing this fiscal year. She will is invited to an evening with acclaim for his roles in feature at 10:45 a.m., the Jewish provide information about the critically-acclaimed actor and films, television and theater, Federation of the Berkshires scope of BIC’s services, along producer Mark Feuerstein on but he is best known for his welcomes Michelle Lopez, with some data/outcomes so Thursday, November 21 from lead role as Dr. Hank Lawson executive director of Berkshire that attendees can get a better 8 to 9:30 p.m. in the Paresky in the series Royal Pains. Immigrant Center, whose understanding of how BIC Auditorium at Williams Inspired by his real-life topic will be “Educating the funds are raised, used, and College. The event, which is experience, he wrote and Community About Immigrants distributed to those in need. free and open to the public, is created 9JKL, a new CBS in the Berkshires, Then and Michelle Lopez is from sponsored by Williams College. family comedy, with his wife, Now.” This free program at upstate new York and has Feuerstein will discuss his executive producer Dana Knesset Israel, 16 Colt Road, lived in Cuba, Spain, and life in the arts as a proud Jew, Klein. Most recently, he in Pittsfield, is part of the Mexico. She has a degree in and as an actor-writer- appeared on Prison Break Federation’s Connecting With Anthropology and a master’s director-producer who has a as arch-villain Jacob Ness. Community series. in Caribbean Studies. Michelle unique perspective on Jewish Additional television credits From the BIC website: has 5 years of non-profit expe- Identity in the media. He’ll include The West Wing, Sex “The mission of the Berkshire rience, 4 years in international also talk about the importance and the City, Once and Again, Immigrant Center is to assist education, and 2 years in of representation for Jews in Fired Up! and Good, Morning, individuals and families higher education. Since mov- front of the camera and in the Miami. This past summer, in making the economic, ing to the Berkshires recently stories we choose to tell. Feuerstein appeared in Wet Mark Feuerstein psychological, and cultural she has joined the Berkshire In addition to speaking, Hot American Summer: 10 adjustment to a new land, not County Complete Count Feuerstein will help lead a Years Later. His feature film Additionally, he played the only by meeting basic needs, Committee and the Berkshire dialogue about the importance credits include Defiance, In lead in the independent fea- but also by helping them to International Club in order to of how, as Jews, we represent Her Shoes, Abandon, What ture Larry Gaye: Renegade become active participants in help serve the community. ourselves in the face of assim- Women Want, The Muse, Male Flight Attendant, which our community…The Center ilation and navigate the subtle Rules of Engagement, Woman he also produced. offers comprehensive services historical tendency to “keep on Top and Practical Magic. IF YOU GO for individuals from more than our heads down.” 80 countries to promote civic Sponsor: Jewish Federation engagement, facilitate cul- of the Berkshires / Connecting tural integration, and assist in With Community You can now read and share Berkshire Jewish Voice feature stories online! navigating the complex U.S. Venue: Knesset Israel immigration system.” Date & Time: Thursday, Novem- Visit jewishberkshires.org and select Community & Events>Berkshire Jewish Michelle will be discussing ber 14 at 10:45 a.m., followed the history of the Berkshire by lunch (see page 18). Voice for links to highlights of current and past issues. Immigrant Center, its mission, and what the Center has been Page 8 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org November 4 to December 1, 2019 Your Federation Presents The Sacred Music of Jewish Istanbul Ethnomusicologist Joseph Alpar on Jewish music in Turkey and former Ottoman territories at the December 6 Knosh & Knowledge GREAT BARRINGTON – This presentation will include On Friday, December 6 musical performances. IF YOU GO at 10:45 a.m., Knosh & Dr. Joseph Alpar is a Sponsor: Jewish Federation of Knowledge welcomes ethno- scholar, performer, and edu- the Berkshires musicologist Joseph Alpar, cator whose research cen- Date & Time: Friday, December 6 whose topic will be “The ters on musical and religious at 10:45 a.m. Sacred Music of Jewish practices in Turkey and Istanbul.” former Ottoman territories. Venue: Hevreh of Southern Berkshire, 270 State Road, Great This Jewish Federation He is a visiting faculty mem- Barrington of the Berkshires program ber in ethnomusicology and Cost: $11 with fresh buffet will take place at Hevreh music history at Bennington lunch. Free admission to pro- of Southern Berkshire at College for the 2019-2020 gram only. 10:45 a.m., and will be fol- academic year. Alpar earned Advance lunch reservations and lowed by catered lunch. his Ph.D. in ethnomusicology prepayment required for this Prepaid lunch reservations from The Graduate Center, event. required in advance. Email City University of New York Email federation@jewishberk- federation@jewishberkshires. in June 2019, having com- shires.org, or call (413) 442- org, or call (413) 442-4360, pleted a dissertation titled, 4360, ext. 10 ext. 10, to RSVP. “Music and Jewish Practice In this talk, ethnomusicol- in Contemporary Istanbul: ogist Joseph Alpar will discuss Preserving Heritage, Bending ongoing transformations in Tradition.” the sacred musical repertoires Dr. Alpar is also an accom- Jewish Women’s Foundation Receives practiced by h'azzanim (syn- plished vocalist and multi-in- agogue cantors) of Istanbul strumentalist of Turkish, $1,000 From Verizon Wireless Zone in Great and their synagogue congre- Greek, and Sephardic music, gations. While many try to playing santouri, piano, dar- Barrington maintain the community’s buka, and frame drums. He is local music heritage, others the director of David’s Harp, The Jewish Women’s Foundation was the attempt to expand their rep- an acclaimed Philadelphia- winner of Verizon Wireless Zone’s August ertoire with music from Israel, based Sephardic music contest, in which customers voted for their the United States, and Chabad ensemble. He has taught pre- favorite non-profit with the winner receiving Hasidic Judaism. Dr. Alpar viously in the music depart- a $1,000 donation to celebrate the store’s will trace the path of today’s ments of Swarthmore College, new ownership and commitment to the Turkish Jews as they broaden Temple University, and CUNY, local community. Foundation co-founder the scope of their religious Hunter College. Jane Glaser (along with Jewish Federation and musical experiences. of the Berkshires Executive Director Dara Kaufman) accepted the check on behalf of the Foundation during the grand opening ribbon cutting celebration. Thank you to all Foundation supporters who voted!
DISCOVER a lebedike velt, a lively world of Yiddish culture at the Yiddish Book Center in Amherst, Massachusetts
Museum and year-round calendar of events
Exhibits ■ Performances ■ Educational Programs Yidstock: The festival of new Yiddish music
yiddishbookcenter.org Visitors Center Hours: Sunday–Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cheshvan/Kislev 5780 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 9
Hearing Your Voices as We Plan For the Future
We were humbled and inspired by the openness focus groups, interviews and a community survey. of so many caring community members who joined If you could not be with us but would like to share us at Federation’s recent FED360 listening tour. your thoughts on the questions that appear on this Your feedback, gathered through asking five key page, please email Dara Kaufman, Federation’s exec- questions, marks the beginning of Federation’s stra- utive director, at [email protected]. tegic planning process that will help chart a course Over the next few months we will be analyzing for a vibrant and strong Berkshire Jewish com- what we are hearing, sharing what we are learning, munity in the future. Thank you for sharing your and determining where the Jewish Federation of the hopes, concerns, and ideas with us. We will con- Berkshires can make a difference in the future. tinue to gather community input through additional
"Considering Jewish life in the Berkshires, what is our Jewish community doing well?” ”When you think about the future of the Jewish commu- nity, what gives you hope? What concerns you?“
”What do you think gets in the way or could get in the way of us creating a more vibrant Jewish community in the future?“ ”When you think about a ”In what ways, if any, do vibrant Jewish community, you feel connected to Juda- what do you imagine it to ism, Jewish practice, Jewish look like?“ institutions, and the Jewish community?”
Local Educators Train for A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE® Implementation As the Federation-supported A WORLD OF DIFFERENCE Anti-Bias Peer Training program expands to ten more local middle and high schools this fall, educators from across Berkshire County came together for an interactive training on the program in preparation for working as advisors in implementing the program in their respective schools. Page 10 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org November 4 to December 1, 2019
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At Greylock Audiology and Balance Centers we combine audiology and physical therapy.
Having both services available in one location allows us to more effectively improve quality of life through better hearing, better balance and overall health and well-being.
Dr. Andrew Puttick, the owner and audiologist at Greylock • Diagnostic hearing evaluations Audiology, is a state licensed doctor of audiology, not a • All hearing aid fittings are verified using real ear measurements hearing aid salesman. to ensure accuracy We are a medical facility, not a retail store, and our • Balance evaluations and treatment mission as an audiology practice is to maximize quality • Hearing aid dispensing and repairs of life through better hearing and balance. • Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) treatment — Certified provider of LEVO Tinnitus Sleep Therapy Dr. Andrew Puttick • Custom hearing protection and musician’s filters Au.D, CCC-A, FAAA • Hearing aids available from all 7 major manufacturers greylockaudiology.com 510 North Street, Suite 9, Pittsfield, MA • (413) 443-4800 tel • (413) 442-9701 fax
Dr. Trevor Marcotte joined Greylock Audiology in August 2017 and FYZICAL Therapy and Balance was formed. Dr. Marcotte’s specialized training in vestibular (balance) therapy makes him one of the most qualified specialists in all of Western MA to treat vertigo and balance disorders! He is extensively trained in sports/orthopedic rehab and pre- and Fyzical.com/Pittsfield post-operative rehabilitation as well. Comprehensive physical therapy services: • Orthopedic physical therapy Pain Management & Laser Therapy • Fall risk assessments • Custom orthotics Best Physical Therapist • Vestibular therapy/balance therapy and fall prevention • CBD products from Miracles of Health, Muscle MX, • Specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of vertigo & and Rooted Apothecary other vestibular disorders • Certified provider of Hips for Life Cheshvan/Kislev 5780 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 11
LIFESTYLE ENJOY STRENGTH SKIN CARE NUTRITIONRetirement L’CHAIM! HAPPINESS SANTÉ! HEALTH ACTIVE
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BERKSHIRE JEWISH CONGREGATIONS & ORGANIZATIONS
Berkshire Minyan Congregation Ahavath Sholom Jewish Federation of the Berkshires Welcome to the Lay-led egalitarian minyan Reconstructionist 196 South St., Pittsfield, MA Jewish Berkshires held at Hevreh of Southern North St., Great Barrington, MA (413) 442-4360, jewishberkshires.org Everyone is welcome to attend Berkshire, 270 State Rd., (413) 528-4197, ahavathsholom.com Jewish War Veterans services and events at any of the Great Barrington, MA Congregation Beth Israel Commander Robert Waldheim organizations listed here. (413) 229-3618, berkshireminyan.org Reform (413) 822-4546, [email protected] Berkshire Hills Hadassah 53 Lois St., North Adams, MA Please call the organizations P.O. Box 187, Pittsfield, MA (413) 663-5830, cbiweb.org Knesset Israel Conservative directly to confirm service times (413) 443-4386, Hevreh of Southern Berkshire 16 Colt Rd., Pittsfield, MA or to inquire about membership. [email protected] Reform (413) 445-4872, knessetisrael.org 270 State Rd., Great Barrington, MA Learn more about our Jewish B’nai B’rith Lodge, No. 326 (413) 528-6378, hevreh.org Temple Anshe Amunim community and find great Chabad of the Berkshires Reform events on the community 450 South St., Pittsfield, MA Israel Philatelist Society 26 Broad St., Pittsfield, MA calendar at: (413) 499-9899, c/o Dr. Ed Helitzer, (413) 442-5910, ansheamunim.org (413) 447-7622 JEWISHBERKSHIRES.ORG jewishberkshires.com ______Page 12 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org November 4 to December 1, 2019 Your Federation Presents
Beeing There Just before Rosh Hashanah, PJ Library and Federation families gathered at Mill River Farm’s Berkshire Wildflower Honey in New Marlborough to see how honey bees make one of our favorite and most important holiday foods! The dozens of kids and parents who attended got to see a hive up close with all the wax and nectar, and then saw a demonstration of how all the raw elements get pulled and turned into honey. Thanks to Sarah Aroeste Blaugrund for her work in organizing this special event.
PJ Library, a program of the Harold Grinspoon Foun- dation, is funded locally by the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires with support from the Spitz Tuchman Family Fund and the Jewish Women’s Foundation of Berkshire County. The program provides free monthly books and music with Jewish content to children ages 6 months through 8 years of age.
Security Training for Local Jewish Organizations
As the importance of a safety and security pre- security continues to grow, paredness training facilitated the Jewish Federation of the by the Secure Community Berkshires wants to make Network. Staff and leaders active shooter preparedness, together to discuss this crucial America and the Conference of sure our area synagogues and of Jewish organizations from learning how to incorporate topic. The Secure Community Presidents of Major American institutions have the tools and across the Berkshires had the security into their “greet- Network is the national home- Jewish Organizations. resources they need. In late opportunity to hone their skills ers and ushers” programs. land security initiative of The August, Federation sponsored on situational awareness and Thank you to all who came Jewish Federations of North Cheshvan/Kislev 5780 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 13 Your Federation Presents
Berkshire Winter fuel assistance in the Berkshires will get a boost… …thanks to the efforts of the Jewish Women’s Foundation of Berkshire JewishA publication of the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires, serving V the Berkshires and surrounding ice NY, CT and VT County. More than $2,200 was raised at their card and mah jongg party held at Berkshire South Regional Community Center in September. More than 70 members and guests, including a table of men, enjoyed a delightful afternoon Thank you to our supporters! of games, along with a delicious boxed lunch prepared by The Great Barrington The Berkshire Jewish Voice extends a very special “thank you” for the Bagel Company. The monies generosity extended thus far by 160 households as of 11/4/19 who have raised will benefit sent in their contributions for voluntary subscriptions to the paper. eligible households with help in paying Anonymous (3) Kevin and Adrian Kalikow winter heating bills Marion Adler Ed and Ros Kolodny through emer- Robert and Barbara Bashevkin Arnold and Elaine Levine gency fuel assis- Bernard Brachfeld Michael Margolis tance programs run by the Berkshires Michael Buckheim Alan and Toby Morganstein Community Action Jeffrey Cohen and Beth Sackler Harry and Judie Morrow Council (BCAC), Nancy Cook Gerry and Bev Nacheman Construct, Inc. Hermine Drezner Larry and Faith Newmark and the Northern Mel and Terry Drucker Ruth Nodiff Berkshire Jim and Pat Fingeroth Irving and Sharon Picard Community Action Hilary Freedman Sue Rudd Council. Guests also brought a plethora Suellen Havsy Sarah Satalich of canned food items Ken and Mimi Heyman Sol Shalit for donation to the Jeanne Hirshberg Amy Simons Abramovich local food pantries. Nick Hubacker and Maxine Wisbaum Ed and Betty Weisberger Bruce and Karen Jacobs Charles Wohl and Alba Passerini Barry and Marjorie Jaffe Joshua Yurfest and Kathleen Fraker
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38 MAIN STREET 6 MAIN STREET 35 RAILROAD STREET W. STOCKBRIDGE, MA CHATHAM, NY GT. BARRINGTON, MA (413) 232-4253 (518) 392-0332 (413) 528-4211 Page 14 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org November 4 to December 1, 2019 LOCAL NEWS Double Dutch: A Discussion about ReThink the Conversation: Immigration in the Berkshires, the US, #Letsstarttalking: and Europe A Conversation for Teens GREAT BARRINGTON – On Sunday, November 17 and Parents around Mental at 2 p.m. Congregation Ahavath Sholom presents Health “Double Dutch: A Discussion GREAT BARRINGTON – On much of their professional About Immigration in the Sunday, November 10 at lives to helping others have Berkshires, the US, and 9 a.m., Hevreh of Southern open, honest, and productive Europe.” Presenters will be Berkshire welcomes Joanne L. conversations around mental two Berkshires-based and Harpel, MPhil, JD, and Rabbi health and depression. renowned Dutch journalists, Geoffrey A. Mitelman for an The morning will feature Freke Vuijst and Reinout van important morning of conver- the opportunity for parents Wagtendonk. sation around mental health and teens to learn together, as Based on research as well and depression aimed at teens well as break-out time for sep- as personal experiences with and their parents. arate conversations. immigrants, their talk will Ms. Harpel and Rabbi Hevreh is located at include the need for immi- Mitelman are a brother and 270 State Road in Great gration laws and the human sister who lost their brother, Barrington. For more infor- rights violations in practice Stephen, to suicide in 1993, mation, please call (413) today. and have since dedicated 528-6378. Vuijst and van Wagtendonk report on American politics and culture for Dutch media. Their podcast, DoubleDutch, is listened to by Dutch- speaking people throughout Freke Vuijst and Reinout van Wagtendonk the world. Freke Vuijst is an American lived in Great Barrington for Nieuwsradio and other Dutch correspondent for the Dutch 40 years. radio outlets. magazine, Vrij Nederland. She Reinout van Wagtendonk Admission is free for CAS is an award-winning documen- is a freelance journalist. He members, $10 for non- tary film maker and the author recently wrote the series called members. Congregation of four books. Her latest book “Accents: The Stories of our Ahavath Sholom is at 15 North Alias Fortezza: A Hacker’s Immigrant Neighbors” in The Street in Great Barrington. For Odyssey was released by Berkshire Eagle. He was the more information, please call Audible this year. She has US correspondent for BNR (413) 528-4197. Cheshvan/Kislev 5780 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 15 LOCAL NEWS A Torah’s Trek Across the Berkshires By Sandy Ashendorf / Special to the BJV Unlike the joke about “the shul I’d never go soferet. Linda is part of a small, international to,” the Jewish community in the Berkshires community of women scribes who completed has always been a collaborative one. From the writing of the first sefer Torah commis- Federation to Shabbat Across the Berkshires sioned entirely for sofrot. For that project, she Graphic Design to the Berkshire Minyan’s home at Hevreh, wrote 20 of the 62 four-column pages that every www.tgo.com there are many points where Berkshire Jewish Torah comprises, including the entire Book of life intersects. As of late August, weBarbara can add Greenfeld Numbers, the last two parshiot of the Torah, another – the graciousProof donation of ad for: of ______a sefer Torah and several columns in the BookPlease of Leviticus. respond In by ______by Congregation Beth Israel in North Adams to restoring the CBI Torah, two Minyan members, the Berkshire MinyanPublication: in Great Barrington.______BJV May 2016 Patty and Rob Fire, were able to to:use (Tel) the 413/ oppor 528-0328- (Fax) 413/ 528-0328 [email protected] A few years ago, when Rabbi Kaya tunity to apprentice under Linda and learn Stern Kaufman establishedSend to: [email protected] Great more about how to repair a Torah.❏ Changes req’d. & new proof Barrington, she was able to borrow a Torah On August 25, after its journey from North from CBI. When KayaNo. left of pagesthe area (inc. to cover): lead ______County1 to South County, the Berkshire❏ Approved Minyan, as is. ❏ Approved with corrections as noted. another congregation, CBI agreed to allow the together with members of CBI and Hevreh, offi- Berkshire Minyan to extend the loan4/25/16 and the cially welcomed the1 restored Torah to its new Torah was used as aProof second sent: Torah ______when read- permanent Proof home. # ______The rededication Approved ceremony by: ______ings so required. During one Shabbat service, it included remarks from Rabbi Neil Hirsch, Rabbi was discovered that the Torah had some dam- Neal Borovitz, Rabba Kaya Stern Kaufman, age and upon further inspection, it was found Patty and Rob Fire, Linda Coppleson, and David that extensive repairs were necessary for it to Gilberg. All in attendance had the opportunity be deemed kosher. to inscribe a letter of the Torah with the soferet The Berkshire Minyan enlisted the services guiding the process, thereby completing the of Linda Coppleson, Berkshire County’s own restoration as a community.
You can now read and share Berkshire Jewish Voice feature stories online! Visit jewishberkshires. org and select Community & Events>Berkshire Jewish Voice for links to highlights of current and past issues.
New Home? Second Home? (413) 528-9700 Retirement Home? Let me show you… The Berkshires Barbara K. Greenfeld ABR, C-CREC, CRS, GREEN, RSPS, SRES Broker Associate • Lic. in MA & NY Radon Testing 413-441-5986 ❑✓ ✓ COMPETITIVE PRICING and Mitigation [email protected] ❑ PROMPT SERVICE Roberts & Associates ❑✓ FIVE-YEAR WARRANTY NEHA & NRSB CERTIFIED Realty, inc.
JOIN US FOR AN UPCOMING EVENT! CONSCIOUS CONVERSATIONS Thursday, November 7 5:30-7pm This month: Thoughtful and thought-provoking discussion on the topic “How can kids make a difference in climate change?” OPEN HOUSE Thursday, November 14 9-11am Refreshments will be served
Outstanding, affordable education for 2-year-olds through Grade 8 413-637-0755 berkshirecountryday.org Page 16 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org November 4 to December 1, 2019 OBITUARIES
Merrill Roberts, 72, local Temple’s various commit- University in St. Louis and from Atlantic City High School granddaughter Hannah science teacher tees. He was chairman of the Cornell University in Ithaca, and enrolled in the University Potler Espie and husband PITTSFIELD – Merrill Roberts, Friends of the Athenaeum, NY. She was a member of of Virginia, where he received Charles Espie; great-grand- 72, died unexpectedly on and also served as both the Congregational Beth Israel in an economics degree. His son Alexander Espie; sister Tuesday, September 17. He president and a member of North Adams. education was interrupted by Alia Sayegh; and many nieces, was predeceased by his wife, many standing committees for Survivors include her World War II when he enlisted nephews, and cousins. He was June Waldman. the Jewish Federation of the three sisters, Susan Perlman in the US Navy. After spending predeceased by his beloved Born August 27, 1947, Berkshires over the years. of Valley Village, CA, Carole a year at the Harvard midship- daughter, Cathy Potler, Esq. Merrill was for many years, Phil co-produced the Brown of Ravena, NY, and man school, he was deployed Michael Ballon, 63, farm before his retirement, a mid- nationally-recognized radio Jean McWilliams of Averill to the Pacific theater from to table restaurateur, dle school science teacher in program “Listen to Their Park, N,Y as well as a 1942-1945, where he was the Pittsfield public school Voices,” which won an brother, Michael Altschuler of commissioned a lieutenant longtime roundtable chef system. For most of his adult American Legion award. The Glenmont, NY. She also leaves and served on the destroyer on WAMC life he engaged in rigorous program first aired on WBRK. nieces and nephews. escort USS George E. Davis. NORTH EGREMONT – Michael exercise enjoying hours of Based on his profes- Per Dr. Altschuler’s request His experience in the US Navy Ballon, chief proprietor of the running through the streets sional training and skills, there were no funeral services. proved to be defining. He Castle Street Café, died peace- of Pittsfield. His joy grew over Phil developed many audio A burial took place in the noted that his service gave him fully at home on Thursday, the years into ultra-marathon tapes of his interviews with Williams College Cemetery on lifelong friends from a variety September 26 of ALS (Lou competition in which he would troubled youth, as well as a Tuesday, September 17. of backgrounds, an openness Gehrig’s disease) and cancer. run in races of as much as series of training tapes for to new experiences, and a Born August 8, 1956 in NJ, Melvin A. Goldberg, 96, 24-hour durations. child care workers. He most commitment to learning. This to Marcia and Herb Ballon, beloved patriarch and all- Merrill and June enjoyed enjoyed teaching classes at experience fostered an intense his interest in food began as a jazz clubs, the theater, and the Community Hebrew High around mensch interest in people from all child, helping his mother, who the various cultural opportu- School. He was always very PITTSFIELD – Melvin A. walks of life which influenced was a great home cook, and nities offered to them in their pleased when former students Goldberg passed away Friday, him for years to come. continued in the student-run Berkshire community. After greeted him and remembered August 30 in Pittsfield. After the war, Boots con- dining co-ops at Oberlin June’s death, Merrill volun- how much they enjoyed these Born February 5, 1923, in tinued his formal education, College. teered at local theaters and classes. Bronx, NY, he had a full 96 receiving his MBA from the After beginning his cultural venues as both docent He and his wife of 54 years. He graduated from high Harvard School of Business cooking career in New York and usher. In his later years, years, the former Rhoda S. school at age 15 and got his Administration in the class of City, he was drawn to the when running outdoors was Silverstein, were married B.S. from CCNY in 1942 at 19. 1947. His early professional Berkshires, where his par- no longer practical, Merrill January 7, 1965. He served in World War II as a life included an executive ents had a summer home. His found the camaraderie of his In addition to his wife, second lieutenant and naviga- position for a large company in first job here was as chef of local fitness center to be one Phil is survived by his son, tor in the U.S. Army Air Corps, Philadelphia. From 1952-1973 The Williamsville Inn in West of his daily pleasures. He was Daniel J. Kaminstein and his where he flew 34 missions in he was a partner in Capitol Stockbridge. When the inn also an avid pool player. wife, Wendy, of Allentown, NJ; B-24 “Liberator” bombers over Furniture Company of Atlantic was sold a year later, in 1985, Merrill is survived by his their two children Stephanie France and Germany. City. Boots later founded and he returned to NYC, hoping to sister-in-law and brother-in- A. Kaminstein and Matthew After leaving the mili- became president of Whalon’s return to the Berkshires soon. law, Dr. Linda Waldman and Kaminstein; his sister, Carole tary, Mr. Goldberg got his Furniture and Design stores When Michael opened the Rabbi Hesch Sommer; his Paskow of Del Ray Beach, FL; master’s degree at Columbia in Ship Bottom, Avalon, Villas, Castle Street Café in 1989, niece and nephew, Leah and and 2 nephews. University and had a 60-year and Absecon, NJ. it was the only white table- Elvys Contreras, and their Funeral services were career in television and radio During this time he was an cloth restaurant in a town children, Kaleb and Luna. held Monday, September 16 research working for Dumont, adjunct professor at Richard that offered few other dining Funeral services were held at Temple Anshe Amunim Westinghouse, and ABC-TV, Stockton State College and choices. The Café laid the on Sunday, September 22 at with Rabbi Liz P.G. Hirsch, among others. also served on various Boards groundwork for the incred- Temple Anshe Amunim. Burial officiating. Burial followed in He married Norma Nertz in both corporate and non-profit. ible proliferation of other followed in the new section of the Temple Anshe Amunim 1956, moved to Great Neck, He retired from business in restaurants that have made the TAA cemetery at Pittsfield Section (original section) in the NY in 1963, where they raised 1997 but continued active ser- Great Barrington a dining Cemetery. Pittsfield Cemetery. three children, and then to vice to his community, partic- mecca. Castle Street was a Memorial donation may be Lenox in 2016. ularly CASA (Court Appointed place where both locals and Philip Kaminstein, 91, made to the Prayer Book Fund Mr. Goldberg was a Special Advocates), and later New Yorkers felt at home, former president of at Temple Anshe Amunim devoted, loving husband for 62 mentored school children in and it became a center of the Jewish Federation or the Jewish Federation of years of Norma (Nertz); beloved Pittsfield. community. PITTSFIELD – Philip the Berkshires in care of the father of Ron Goldberg and Boots and his wife, Arlene, Right from the start, and Kaminstein, 91, died early Devanny-Condron Funeral Joe Chiplock, Rick Goldberg spent the last 5 years at long before the phrase “farm to Friday morning, September Home. and Judith Milch, and Joan Kimball Farms Independent table” was coined, the restau- Goldberg Munch and Bob Life Care in Lenox. He always rant featured locally grown 13 at Wingate at Melbourne Dr. Marsha Irene Altschul- Place. Munch; doting grandfather enjoyed the wonderful staff ingredients, and the backside er, 69, biology professor Born in Bronx, NY, on June to Jacob, Daniel, and Aliza and interesting residents. of the menu proudly listed at Williams College 10, 1928, he was the son of Munch and Henry and Klara He thought that the fine fare the sources. When the Café the late Sam and Sarah Lisitz PITTSFIELD – Dr. Marsha Goldberg; beloved uncle, and good friends there made had the chance to expand, Kaminstein. Educated in the Irene Altschuler, 69, biology cousin, patriarch, and all- every night a dinner party. the Celestial Bar became the local schools in Kiamesha professor at Williams College, around mensch. His friends would agree that only venue in the Berkshires Lake, NY, he was awarded died on Thursday, September Funeral services were held Boots, with his ready smile, with live jazz every weekend, both his baccalaureate degree 12 at Berkshire Medical on Tuesday, September 3 at warmth, humility, and sharp featuring the best of the area’s and his master’s degree in Center. Hevreh of Southern Berkshire, wit contributed to the enjoy- musicians. Sociology from New York Born April 10, 1950 in Great Barrington. In lieu of ment of life at Kimball Farms. For seven years he was the University. Continuing his Albany, NY, a daughter of the flowers, please make a dona- Boots’ time with his trea- Roundtable Chef on WAMC, education, Phil did graduate late Samuel and Ellen Lillian tion in Mel’s name to the char- sured family was his main where he taught cooking on work at Duke University. (Kloo) Altschuler, she attended ity of your choice. interest in life, and they loved the radio. In 2008 Michael Phil came to the Berkshires schools in Ravena, NY, grad- and admired him in turn. His published The Castle Street Harold “Boots” Potler, 95, in 1962 and served as the uating Ravena-Coeymans- family will forever miss him, Café Cookbook, followed by a ready smile, warmth, director of staff training at Selkirk High School. She but his spirit and example will memoir, A Chef’s Life, in 2014. Berkshire Farm for Boys. He graduated from the University humility, and sharp wit continue to inspire them. Michael enjoyed living near held that position for many of Rochester with a master’s LENOX – Harold “Boots” He is survived by his wife, Mt. Washington State Forest, years prior to his appointment degree and then received her Potler, 95, former longtime the former Arlene Snyder, where he hiked and skied reg- as the director of Archives. He Ph.D. from Indiana University. resident of Margate City, NJ, whom he “swept off her feet” ularly. He also loved to travel, retired in 2012 after 50 years Dr. Altschuler was last passed away at Berkshire with his Hollywood good looks especially to our National of service to Berkshire Farm. employed by Williams College Medical Center on Monday, and married 70 years ago; his Parks. A member of Temple Anshe as a professor of biology from September 16. son, Dr. Andrew Potler and In 2017, after a long and Amunim, Phil served as a 1985 until her retirement Born in Atlantic City, NJ wife, Marcia Powdermaker; circuitous route, he reunited in 2014. Prior to Williams on June 3, 1924, the son of son- in-law Martin Vega; president of the Temple and OBITUARIES, continued on she did postdoctoral referral the late Nathan and Minnie grandson Natan Vega Potler; was a member of many of the page 17 appointments at Washington (Weintrob) Potler, he graduated
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“We like your smile when we’re done” A+ S31033 Cheshvan/Kislev 5780 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 17
OBITUARIES, continued from page 16 Calendar – Ongoing Events with and married his wife, (Vicki) of Alford, MA, and Julia Kreilkamp, who he first daughters Susan (Martin) of Around the Community met over forty years ago, work- Cincinnati, OH, and Nancy of ing in the kitchen at Oberlin Pittsfield, as well as grand- Continuous – Chabad of the of prayer? Facilitated by Myrna Information: (413) 663-5830 and College. daughters Rebecca (Sloane) of Michael is survived by Denver, CO, Elizabeth (John) Berkshires “Smile on Seniors,” Hammerling. Newcomers always www.cbiweb.org. or “S.O.S.,” volunteer program welcome. Information: (413) Julia, who cared for him in of Brecksville, OH, Whitney Fridays, once a month at 5:30 to serve senior citizens in the 445-4872, ext. 16. his illness; brother David and and Maggie of Boston, as well p.m. (followed by a family as great grandsons Arthur and Berkshires. Information for his wife, Karen Reisler; sister Wednesdays, 12:30-1:30 p.m. style Shabbat dinner at 6:30 Walter of Brecksville, OH. families who can benefit and Elizabeth Mariscal and her – at Chabad of the Berkshires p.m.) – Knesset Israel, 16 Colt Graveside services were volunteers: Rabbi Levi Volovik husband, George; sister-in-law (through June 13). Join together Road, Pittsfield. Shirei Shabbat Linda Ballon; niece, nephew, held Sunday, October 6 at at (413) 499-9899 or visit www. with fellow Jewish women in the (“Songs of Shabbat”). Unique three stepchildren, and cat Knesset Israel Cemetery with jewishberkshires.com. Yoda. He was predeceased by Rabbi David Weiner, spiritual Berkshires for inspiring Torah service combines melodies from his brother Jon in 2017. leader of Knesset Israel, offici- Monthly, fourth or fifth study, warm camaraderie, hot Carlebach, Debbie Friedman, Contributions in Michael’s ating. Donations may be made Sunday – Volunteers from tea and delicious refreshments! and Camp Ramah to create a memory may be made to to Knesset Israel, 16 Colt Congregation Beth Israel, 53 Lois Please RSVP to saravolovik@ ruach filled (“spirited”) family Compassionate Care ALS at Road, Pittsfield, MA 01201 or Street, North Adams “Take and gmail.com or call (413) 499- friendly experience. Cost for ccals.org. or P.O. Box 1052, charity of the donor’s choice. Eat” program cook, package, 9899. dinner $20 adult; $15 teen, West Falmouth, MA 02574. and deliver hot meals for all children free. Dinner reservations Wednesdays at Hevreh, – A memorial gathering will Jay Gordon Shapiro, 74, North Adams clients of “Meals are due by the Monday before “Lunch N Learn” with Rabbi Neil be held at a later date. husband, son, brother, on Wheels.” Information: (413) services. Full information: (413) uncle Hirsch at 11:45 a.m. is open to 663-5830 or [email protected]. 445-4872, ext 10. Miriam Rosenbaum, 93, PORT ST. LUCIE, FL – Jay anyone who wants to deepen enthusiastic baker of Gordon Shapiro, 74 of Port Sundays (second of each their relationship to Jewish study Saturdays at 8:45 a.m. – at challah and all things St. Lucie, FL died Thursday, month) – Berkshire Hills Society through text and discussion. Says Hevreh, 270 State Road in chocolate October 3 at his home. He was of Israeli Philatelists meet. Discuss Rabbi Hirsch: Currently, we are Great Barrington. Every Shabbat PITTSFIELD – Miriam a member of Congregation Israeli and American stamps. studying the Book of Judges, morning, gather in Rabbi Neil Rosenbaum, 93, passed away Beth Israel in North Adams. Coffee and donuts. Information: which tells the stories of the Hirsch’s study and dive into the on Thursday, October 3 at Born in Pittsfield on March Ed Helitzer, (413) 447-7622, Israelites as they attempted to less-often read books of the Berkshire Medical Center. 27, 1945, son of Eli and daytime. settle the Land of Israel. It’s a Bible. All are welcome to begin Miriam was a first-gen- Lee (Samuels) Shapiro, Jay story of one people encoun- the day with coffee while study- Tuesdays, from 10 to 11:30 eration American, born attended North Adams schools tering others, the tensions that ing and relaxing on Shabbat. a.m. – Torah Portion of the Week September 18, 1926, in and graduated from Drury exist between those parties, Sessions will be between 45 High School. Upon graduating study group at Knesset Israel, 16 Scranton, PA, the youngest and the complicated, ongoing and 60 minutes. Please be in from UMass, Jay served in the Colt Road, Pittsfield. Facilitator of Abraham and Clara Heller relationship of a Covenantal touch with Rabbi Hirsch for US Army Reserve, then moved Myrna Hammerling guides the Tauber’s four children. The Nation with its God. While the further information: nhirsch@ family moved to Pittsfield on to Traveler’s Insurance group through the triennial cycle, study is ongoing, we welcome hevreh.org. when Miriam was a young- Company in Hartford, CT. year-round in the KI Library. people whenever they may ster, and she was raised in After several years as an Newcomers always welcome Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. Temple be available to join.” Classes her parents’ bread bakery on actuary, he then pursued to this gathering of students Anshe Amunim, 26 Broad available via video conference Kent Avenue. She attended his dream of owning his own of diverse ages, backgrounds, Street, Pittsfield – “Torah bar and restaurant, Mother or conference call. Email Rabbi Mercer Elementary School and perspectives who search Plus: Exploring Jewish Text and Shapiro’s, in Killington, VT. Hirsch a [email protected] to and graduated from Pittsfield together to deepen understand- Culture.” Join Rabbi Liz P.G. Upon retirement he moved to find out how to join remotely. High School in 1944 before ing of our foundational text. Free. Hirsch for a conversation based enrolling in nurses’ training at Florida. Information: (413) 445-4872, Thursdays (fourth of each on the texts of the Jewish people Mount Sinai Hospital in New His wife of 24 years, Sheila York City, where she met her Nancy (Cohen) Shapiro, prede- ext. 16. month) – Hadassah Book Club. and reflect on Jewish values and For times, locations of meetings, thinking and what it means “to future husband, Irving, at a ceased him by just 6 months. Wednesdays, from 10:30 to and further information about be Jewish.” All texts are offered dance. Jay is survived by his sisters 11:30 a.m. – Hevreh of Southern Miriam Weiner of Windsor, the books: Pattie Lipman plip- in English. Free and open to Miriam worked beside Irv Berkshire, 270 State Road, Great CT and Barbara Winer of [email protected]. the public. Information (413) at the family business, the for- Barrington, offers an hour of Rockville, MD; his brother, 442-5910 or templeoffice@ mer Irv’s Auto Supply, before “Shalom Yoga, Gentle Stretch Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. – Janet retiring in 1981. She was an Stephen Shapiro of Wading ansheamunim.org. and Meditation” with Nina Lee will continue to teach an avid knitter, fearless cook, and River, NY; and several nieces enthusiastic baker of challah and nephews. Lipkowitz a certified Kripalu intermediate mat Pilates and all things chocolate. She A graveside service was and Jewish yoga and meditation class at Hevreh every enjoyed gardening, traveling, held Tuesday, October 8 teacher. Check https://hevreh. Thursday. Bring a mat Knesset Israel and watching Boston Red Sox at Beth Israel Cemetery in org/calendar/ for updates. All and water. Contact Janet 16 Colt Road baseball with Irv until his Clarksburg, MA. Memorial levels welcome. Contact Nina at Lee at [email protected] to Pittsfield death in 2006. contributions may be made to [email protected] with learn more, and check She was predeceased by the Wounded Warrior Project any questions. hevreh.org/calendar for ONGOING MINYANS her brothers (Sam and Saul) in care of Flynn & Dagnoli- any weekly changes. Wednesdays at Knesset Israel, Sunday 8:45 a.m. and 7 p.m. and sister (Ethel), and is sur- Montagna Home For Funerals Tuesday 7 p.m. – “Enhanced Prayer Class for Fridays, at 9 a.m. – vived by sons Stephen of San Central Chapel, 74 Marshall Friday 7 a.m. and 5:45 p.m. Francisco, CA, and Robert St. North Adams, MA 01247. Adults” 10 -11:30 a.m. at 16 Colt Meditation with Rabbi Saturday 9:30 a.m. and evenings Road, Pittsfield, KI library. What Rachel Barenblat in the approximately 30 minutes before sunset are we saying when we read Congregation Beth Israel prayers at a service? How does sanctuary, 53 Lois Street, CANDLE-LIGHTING the siddur language connect North Adams, overlook- a a Friday, November 8...... 4:20 p.m. with my life today? How can I ing the Berkshire moun- Friday, November 15...... 4:13 p.m. Create a Jewish Legacy Campaign build my Hebrew reading fluency tains. Silence, chanting, Please remember the Jewish Community in your will. and practice my reading skills? and meditation designed Friday, November 22...... 4:07 p.m. How can I be more comfortable to help prepare for Friday, November 29...... 4:03 p.m. with the language and process Shabbat. All welcomed. Page 18 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org November 4 to December 1, 2019
MAZEL TOV Mazel Tov to… Judith Cook on being honored last month with the MICAH (Members in Community Action Honoree) Award, sponsored by the Berkshire Interfaith Organization (BIO). A mem- ber of Knesset Israel, Judy is also a board member and past president of the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires. She was recognized for her countless hours of service to the Jewish and wider commu- nity. The award was presented in Dalton on October 27. c ProgramsPrograms taketake placeplace onMondays most Mondays and Thursdays and Thursdays at 10:45 ata.m. 10:45 Lunch a.m. is Lunchserved is Monday served Mondays,and Thursday Tuesdays, Jackie Browner and Randy Johnson on the andat 12 Thursdays p.m, through at noon. September 3. Tuesday lunch resumes on September 8. marriage of their son, Evan Venue: Knesset Israel, 16 Colt Rd, Pittsfield, MA. Kenward. c Roz Baron on her son, Rabbi Barry Baron, who was Knesset Israel, 16 Colt Road, Pittsfield, MA. recently appointed campus rabbi and associate chap- lain at Colgate University. He had retired from the Army Chaplaincy as a colonel. c Margo Golos on the engagement of her daugh- ter, Joy Reines, to Craig Zimmerman.
You can now read and share Berkshire Jewish Voice fea- NOVEMBER Thursday, 21...... 10:45 a.m., “Current Affairs” with ture stories online! Visit jew- Monday, 4...... 10:45 a.m., “In the Shadow of Two Steven Rubin. Lunch: Thanksgiving at JFB: Roast- ishberkshires.org and select Great Hills: Literature of the Berkshires” with Michael ed turkey**#, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry Community & Events>Berk- Hoberman. 1st of 3 part series. Lunch: Meat loaf**#, sauce, peas & pearl onions, salad, challah, apple shire Jewish Voice for links noodle soup, peas and carrots, mashed potatoes, dumplings, and tea. to highlights of current and rye bread, fruit cobbler, and tea. Monday, 25...... 10:45 a.m., “Intergenerational: past issues. Tuesday, 5...... Stir fired chicken and broccoli#, The Process of Aging” with therapist Maggie Bitt- egg drop soup, rice, white bread, pineapple, and man. Lunch: Ratatouille with cheese, rice, salad, tea. scones, peaches, coffee, tea, and milk for coffee. Thursday, 7...... 10:45 a.m., “Living in a Time of Cli- Tuesday, 26...... Fish sticks#, sweet potato fries, mate Change: Responding to Crisis.” Lunch: Vegetar- broccoli, salad, pumpernickel bread, applesauce, ian chili and cheese, quinoa, salad, corn bread, ice coffee, tea, and milk for coffee. cream and cookies, coffee, tea, and milk for coffee. Thursday, 28...... Closed for Thanksgiving Monday, 11...... 10:45 a.m., “In the Shadow of Two Great Hills: Literature of the Berkshires” with Michael Hoberman. 2nd of 3 part series. Lunch: Stuffed cab- DECEMBER bage casserole**#, chicken soup, brown rice, baby Monday, 2...... 10:45 a.m., screening of film Like us on carrots, salad, rye bread, mandarin oranges, and Denial. Film runs 110 minutes. Begins at 10:45, breaks Facebook: tea. at noon for lunch and continues to end at 12:45. Lunch: Meat loaf**#, noodle soup, mixed vegetables, oven • Jewish Federation Tuesday, 12...... Chicken Marsala,**#, noodles, green beans, salad, Challah, parve cookies, and tea. roasted potatoes Syrian style, salad, rye bread, of the Berkshires pears, and tea. Thursday, 14...... 10:45 a.m., “Educating the Com- • PJ Library munity about Immigrants in the Berkshires” with Mi- Tuesday, 3...... Chicken with prunes and hon- Berkshire County chelle Lopez, executive director of the Berkshire Immi- ey**#, couscous and toasted almonds, peas, Italian grant Center. Lunch: Squash cheese pie**, stewed bread, mandarin oranges, and tea. tomatoes, salad, farmer’s loaf, baklava, coffee, tea, Thursday, 5...... 10:45 a.m., Chair Yoga with Linda and milk for coffee. Novick. Lunch: Fish chowder, grilled cheese sand- Monday, 18...... 10:45 a.m., “In the Shadow of Two wiches, stewed tomatoes, salad, oyster crackers, Great Hills: Literature of the Berkshires” with Michael pudding and cookies, coffee, tea, and milk for cof- Hoberman. Final of 3 part series. Lunch: Salisbury fee. steak**#, split pea soup, mashed potatoes, green beans, rye bread, parve chocolate chip cookies, and tea. Tuesday, 19...... Eggplant with meat and on- ions**#, Acini di Pepe pasta with chickpeas, pita bread, apricots, and tea. Cheshvan/Kislev 5780 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 19
BERKSHIRE JEWISH VOICES Traveling with Jewish Taste Even Raging Hurricane Dorian Couldn’t Dampen Maritime Provinces Excursion By Carol Goodman Kaufman
While reading the Pulitzer Prize win- ning novel, The Shipping News, I fell in love with author Annie Proulx’s descriptions of Newfoundland, with its rough coastline and unforgiving climate. The Maritime Provinces beckoned me. Well, we didn’t have time to include Newfoundland, but we have just returned from a most amazing road trip to the rest of Atlantic Canada. Herein, just a few highlights. We entered New Brunswick by way of Maine and drove up and down a roller coaster of hills, through miles and miles — and more miles — of pine forests, through the Fundy National Park and its forests, then past fields that stretched to the horizon. Houses sat vast distances from one another, making for what must be a lonely life during the winter months — and quite the trek to a neighbor to borrow a cup of sugar. At the center of every little town along the way was a white clapboard church. I can see why that church would be so important for people living so far from their neighbors. After a week of strenuous labor tending to farming or fishing, church services on Sunday would not only be spiritually uplifting but socially necessary. Oh, did I mention that we got caught in Hurricane Dorian while in Harvey, population 363? The wind raged around us, buffeting the house and felling trees and power lines. The power at the B&B went out and, since the place has a well, we also lost water, all of which only served to enhance the feeling of remoteness. And at Grand Pré, we learned about the Great Upheaval. In 1755 the British Jews, on the other hand, tended to settle in towns where fellow members of forcibly removed the Acadian population from the Maritime Provinces and north- the tribe had congregated, establishing businesses, synagogues, and cemeteries. ern Maine. Even though these proud people had been in the area for little more At one time there were large and thriving Jewish communities in the province. than half a century, they yearned to return to it. Given the Jews’ 2000-year exile However, since the 1960s, large numbers of younger people have left home to from the Land of Israel, during which we never stopped praying for a return, we pursue higher education or employment, so the communities have dwindled. Only certainly identified with their hopes. (If only we could embrace the Hebrew lan- Moncton, Saint John, and Fredericton have any Jewish presence, and the three guage with as much dedication.) communities count fewer than 2,000 Jews in total. The highlight of New Brunswick has to be Hopewell Cape, where the tide goes out so far that you can actually walk on the ocean floor. In fact, twice a day the bay fills and empties over 160 billion tons of water — that’s more than the flow of all the world’s rivers combined — and the tide rises almost 50 feet. We visited Fish and Potato Bake at high tide and saw rocks that simply looked like little islands in the water. Next Serves 8 morning, knowing that this would be the only chance we would have to see low tide before Dorian arrived in full force, we ventured out in the rain. We found that With apologies to Samuel Taylor Coleridge: Water, water, everywhere/and lots those islands were actually rocks that rose about 80 feet above the beach. The sil- and lots of fish. And, boy, did we eat a lot of it. The seafood industry forms ver lining: although we got soaked, we had the beach almost to ourselves. a large part of the provincial economy, and this dish includes two quintes- Once the hurricane had passed, the 17-mile long Confederation Bridge sentially Atlantic Canadian foods: fish and potatoes. While the cod fishing reopened and we drove over it to Prince Edward Island (PEI). For a girl who grew industry collapsed in the last century, it has revived due to significant regula- up landlocked in Pittsfield, it was quite a jolt to be completely surrounded by the tion and restructuring. And, Prince Edward Island, with its iron-rich soil and sea everywhere we went. And even though Dorian had passed, the wind never balanced sunshine and rainfall, is the perfect place to grow potatoes, and abated and I gave up trying to wear a hat. farmers on the island grow many varieties of spuds. In fact, potatoes are so Like many young girls, I had read the Anne of Green Gables novels, but the much a part of the PEI community that the town of O’Leary is home to the fact that the story takes place on PEI escaped my ten-year-old eyes. After all, Canadian Potato Museum. back then I hadn’t been past Brooklyn. But, Anne is so beloved on the island that much of its economy is based on that redheaded girl of Avonlea. Aside from the actual historical sites, there is the AGG Chocolate Factory, the AGG golf course, the AGG B&B, Avonlea Village shopping center … well, you get the picture. But, Ingredients: the real deal is the Anne of Green Gables Heritage Place, part of Prince Edward 1½ lb. Yukon Gold potatoes 2 Tbsp. chopped fresh dill, or Island National Park. There we learned about author Lucy Maud Montgomery 3 Tbsp. butter 2 tsp. dried who, it turns out, was a very prolific writer, having published 20 novels (most set 3 cloves garlic, minced ½ tsp. salt on PEI), as well as 530 short stories, 500 poems, and 30 essays. 3 Tbsp. flour 1½ lb. cod From PEI, we took the ferry to Nova Scotia and drove directly to Cape Breton 2 cups milk 3 Tbsp. cornstarch Island, where we were struck by the people’s strong attachment to both the Acadian and Celtic culture. Everybody we met was bilingual, and street signs, menus, and pamphlets were printed in both English and either Gaelic or French. The people of Nova Scotia are so intent on maintaining their culture that they Directions: have established the Gaelic College in order to bring back the almost-lost lan- Place potatoes in large saucepan; cover with cold water. Bring to a boil. guage to modern use in the provinces. Reduce to a simmer and cook 20 to 25 min., or until just tender. Drain. Cool Caileigh (pronounced kay-lee) concerts of traditional Celtic music are a daily until comfortable enough to handle. occurrence, and at the Celtic Music Interpretive Centre in Judique we were Slice into 1/4-inch thick rounds. treated to an authentic caileigh performance over lunch, complete with fiddle and keyboard. After our meal, we toured the museum’s interactive exhibits chroni- Meanwhile, preheat oven to 425°F. cling the development of the genre in Canada, and even learned a bit of Irish step Melt butter in a pan over medium heat. Cook garlic for about 1 minute, until dancing. softened. Sprinkle with flour. Cook, stirring 2 minutes, then gradually whisk in milk until smooth. Continuing to whisk, bring just to a boil. Reduce to a simmer 3 to 4 minutes, until sauce is thickened. Stir in dill and salt. Set aside. Carol Goodman Kaufman is a psychologist and author with a passion for travel Dust cod with cornstarch; place in 9x13-inch baking dish. and food. She is currently at work on a food history/cookbook, tracing the paths that some of our favorite foods have taken from their origins to appear on dinner Arrange potato slices on top of fish. Pour sauce over top. plates and in cultural rites and artifacts around the world. She invites readers to Bake 30 to 35 min. until the top is golden and the fish is cooked through. read her blog at carolgoodmankaufman.com and to follow her on Twitter @goodmankaufman.
Israeli Jewelry
The Mews, by the Red Lion Inn Courtyard Stockbridge, MA 413-298-4436 Page 20 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org November 4 to December 1, 2019 CULTURE AND ARTS Medieval Jewish Treasures Hidden for Centuries On View at The Met Cloisters NEW YORK CITY – “Periodic waves of persecution against medieval Jewish com- (ritual bath). The community was decimated by anti-Semitic violence in the wake munities,” writes Barbara Drake Boehm in her exhibition catalogue The Colmar of the Black Plague in the mid-14th century, however, and these structures have Treasure: A Medieval Jewish Legacy, “resulted in significant loss of life, the con- long since been destroyed. While some Jews hung on, many fled to more hospita- fiscation of property, or both. Across medieval Europe, Jews had good reason to ble locales. hide their valuables.” The identity and fate of the family that stashed the hundreds of coins, plus The circa 14th century artifacts in the Colmar Treasure were uncovered in gems and 14 finely-crafted rings, is unknown but their possessions attest the 1863 by workmen renovating a confectioner’s shop in Colmar, a town along the vibrancy and affluence of the lost Jews of Colmar. Also surviving are vestiges of Rhine river renowned for its wines. Jewish merchants arrived in this Holy Roman Hebrew manuscripts, which were likely used in Colmar’s synagogue and school, Empire “imperial city” in the late 13th century, and developed a thriving com- and that were later incorporate1d in the bindings of Christian books. munity with a synagogue, The objects have resided in the collection of the Musee de Cluny in Paris, one school, cemetery, and mikveh of the most important global collections of objects and art from the Middle Ages, since 1923. They will be on view, along with related artifacts, at The Met Cloisters, the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s medieval collection near the northern tip of Manhattan, through January 12, 2020.
The Met Cloisters is located at 99 Margaret Corbin Drive, Fort Tryon Park, in New York City. For more information, visit metmuseum.org.
Gilded silver brooch, mid-13th century Fastener with falconer on horseback Sapphire ring
Left: Silver key, first half 14th century. From the online catalogue: “Silver is usually deemed too soft and too valuable for keys, but this example served an exceptional function. Because it is made of precious metal, [Jewish law permitted it to] be worn as an accessory and therefore… not subject to Sabbath restrictions against carrying an object outside the home.” The Colmar key is the earliest surviving example of this practice.
Dress pin with happy faces
Harold Grinspoon Foundation Grants Available to Berkshire Residents The Harold Grinspoon Foundation (HGF) offers generous grants to Jewish individuals and families living in the Berkshires and Western Massachusetts to encourage and enrich participation in Jewish communal life. For full details about the available grants highlighted below – and the rules, restrictions, and deadlines governing their award – please visit hgf.org/grants-awards.
Israel Travel Grants Year-Round Youth Jewish Overnight Jewish Family Camps Rekindle Shabbat Experiences Summer Camping A trip to Israel can be An immersive Jewish Rekindle Shabbat life changing for those Jewish youth groups, A Jewish summer camp camp experience is one Grants encourage people who make the journey. retreats, and trips can experience offers young way for families to bond to experience the HGF may provide an Israel expand a young person’s people the opportunity to and experience Jewish magic of Shabbat together Travel Grant to Jewish sense of self and connect build lasting friendships life together. Families can through a Shabbat meal. adults over 18, youth him or her with wider with Jewish peers and im- rekindle the Jewish spirit HGF reimburses the cost applicants from age 6 Jewish learning and Jewish merse themselves in joyful as they enjoy song, stories, of hosting a Shabbat meal through 18, and families community. Youth ages 6 Jewish living. Youth ages 6 and rituals – all alongside up to eight times per year, traveling together on the to 18 can apply for grants to 18 can apply for yearly new Jewish family friends. providing that a minimum same trip. To be eligible, to attend an event spon- grants to camps that: Family camps must meet of eight individuals attend a qualifying trip must be similar guidelines as youth each gathering. HGF will sored by a recognized Are approved or spon- for at least 7 days and overnight camps, and par- reimburse $10 per individ- Jewish institution, such as sored by one of the five sponsored and organized ticipants must attend for ual, up to a maximum of a national Jewish youth major Jewish movements by a Jewish organization at least two days. $300, to hosts approved movement or organized (Orthodox, Conservative, with a set itinerary OR for the grant. by a Western Massachu- Reform, Reconstruc- be a self-organized trip setts or Southern Vermont tionist, or Renewal) or with a clear itinerary that youth group, Jewish sponsored by a nonprofit includes educational tours, organization, or school. Jewish organization or programs, and experiences Events must include highly school for each day – other re- impactful and meaningful strictions apply. All grants Jewish content and values. OR are reimbursement grants. Are publicly advertised as Jewish overnight camps and meet criteria listed in detail on the HGF web- Visit HGF.org/grants-awards site.