April 2016 CONTACT INFORMATION

Adath Israel Tradition

Serving the Adath Israel Chavurah since 1904 Newtown, Monroe, Bethel, Brookfield, Southbury, Trumbull, Oxford, Danbury

(The Little Synagogue that Could: First building: 1919, First rabbi: 1923) Ritual: Conservative Social: Progressive Oneg Shabbats: Priceless

April 22 Adar II - 22 Nisan 2016 5776

The first night of Passover is on Friday April 22

School Vacation

April 10 - 17

Enjoy your Spring Break!

Adath Israel

ANNUAL MEETING

Sunday may 1 9:00 am

More information on Page 9 Vote: Budget & Board Slate of Officers

In This Issue Announcements 1 Just For the Record 5 Community Programs & Events 10 Rabbi’s & President’s Messages In Memoriam 2 The Nezvesky School 6 11 Community Care Committee Contact Information Pre-School Playgroup Donations Ritual 3 7, 8 12 Purim Carnival Photos Hosting an Oneg / Kiddush Photos 4 Upcoming Activities and Events 9 April Calendar 13 Name Tags

From the Rabbi’s Study

During this month of April, we will celebrate the Festival of Passover. One of the imag- es of the observance of Passover is the envisioning of Elijah the Prophet visiting the Se- der. The Cup of Elijah represents God’s promise to give the Land of Israel to the People of Israel. We sing that Elijah will arrive with the Messiah. The messianic era, means a time of peace and security for all humanity.

At the same time that we open the door for Elijah and sing his song, we also recite the passage, “Pour out Your wrath upon those groups of people who insist upon doing evil and bringing about death and destruction. Destroy and remove them from the face of the earth.”

There are twin values that we emphasize in Judaism—to yearn and strive for peace and happiness for all on earth, while at the same time to always be willing and prepared to defend ourselves against those who want and intend to destroy us. We should easily understand, with terror and violence so prevalent in the world today, that the reality of life demands the fulfill- ment of both these values. Pharoah and Haman in many different manifestations are still with us. We must continue to teach the twin Torah values of reaching out to improve the world, while remembering the verse, “These are the commandments of the Creator by which we should live.” and not die.

Rabbi Barukh Schectman

President’s Message

Dear Congregants,

I hope all is well as we go forward into our springtime mode. This past Wednesday, Florence and I had the pleasure of being part of the minyan during the reading of the story of Purim. Rabbi Schectman did a wonderful job during the Megillah reading of incorporating both Hebrew and English, making it interesting while adding an historical per- spective. I also enjoyed all those that participated in the parade. A special shout out to Spencer Tingley, who was profoundly energetic in his costume, and thank you to all the readers and planners and the hamentaschen bakers.

Fellow congregants, please note that this is the time of year that we begin the process of filling spots on our Community Care & Share board for the coming year. Many of our board members have agreed to stay on, and for that I am thankful. How- The Community Care and Share Committee met re- ever, there are openings; there are board members that cently. We are thrilled that David Wiener is back would like to take on other challenges and others who home to continue his recuperation. The committee have put in many years at different levels who feel the has been assisting the Wiener’s and will continue need for a period of time off to reinvigorate themselves. with the help of the congregation to assist them in Think about being part of the process. Join us during this any way they see fit. Our committee would like to time of stability and growth. It will make you feel good. sponsor an upcoming Oneg. Stay tuned for the date. As Hillel said, "doing a good deed makes you feel so good For the next school year, the committee is discussing that you want to continue to do more mitzvot". options to get our high school students involved. We Looking forward to seeing everyone during the coming would like to extend a warm welcome to Rabbi month as we prepare for the Passover celebration. Schectman.

With Blessings of Shalom from my family to yours, Susan Littlefield, Bob Rubinstein Secretary

From The Ritual Committee

ADULT B’NAI MITZVAH CLASS SHABBAT ACROSS AMERICA

Our current Adult B’nai Mitzvah class has been meet- Shabbat Across America was held on Friday, ing for just about one full year. Our three students March 4th. Rabbi Baruch Schectman lead a have gained Hebrew literacy skills and have begun to spiritual and educational service which was study the prayer service and ritual practices. In one enjoyed by many. Our event was well attend- more year’s time they will be ready to be on the Bimah ed and everyone came with delicious dinner for a group B’nai Mitzvah ceremony. If you already contributions. have some Hebrew reading skills and you would like to join the class, you would be most welcome. Contact: Thank you to all congregants who came to [email protected]. Adult Education is a perk share in prayers that spread across all of of membership and is offered at no additional cost be- America! yond membership dues. Non-members pay a class fee ~Bonnie Goldstein and are welcome as well. If you know of anyone out- side of our congregation who might be interested in the class, please encourage that person to contact us. Mazel Tov!

~Katherine Kohrman To the Goldstein/Vine Family

as Eric MEGILLAH READING is called to the Torah Rabbi Baruch Schectman led our congregation in a fun as a Bar Mitzvah filled Megillah Reading Service for Purim. We had four awesome chanters this year....Rebecca Goldman, Saturday April 9, 2016 Mark Silverman, Mark Rebb and Bonnie Goldstein. Our parade was small, but boy, did we move! The sound of groggers filled the room at the mention of Haman, and Rabbi Schectman teaches us something new with every service!

~Bonnie Goldstein

Congregants visited Two Roads Brewery on March 6th. The Mah Jong Momma's are having a laugh We brought games and munchies and had a really nice from Michelle's video. It's never too late afternoon. Consider joining us next time around!!! to join in on the fun....if you want to learn, come and we will teach you! ~Bonnie Goldstein ~Bonnie Goldstein

NAME TAGS

There’s been a little confusion about our new name tags. We introduced them at the same time that Rabbi Schectman arrived so it seemed obvious that they were designed to help him get to know us. But if you are thinking that, and thus thinking that as soon as he learns your name, you no longer need to wear your name tag, you would be, well, wrong! The idea of introducing name tags here at Adath Israel was actually hatched several months before we hired Rabbi Schectman. They are an initiative of our synagogue’s Transition Committee. The idea behind them is that knowing each other’s names is an important part of building a community. It is the first step to building relationships, and it is in those relationships that we begin to feel like we are creating a connected vibrant congregation. You will find your name tag in the lobby of the synagogue. Please wear your name tag whenever you are in the building and then please remember to return it to the alphabetized box before you leave. Let’s make 2016 be the year when we really get to know each other and start to feel like a family.

CEMETERY PLOTS

AVAILABLE The new sign at the entrance to our cemetery FOR FAMILIES OF CAI MEMBERS on Moose Hill Road in Monroe. Adath Israel Cemetery (a division of B’nai Israel Cemetery) 472 Moose Hill Road, Monroe, CT

Information packets are available. Please contact Susan Rubin at [email protected] or call 203-426-5188 and leave her a message.

JUST FOR THE RECORD It appears that even with his singing career histo- Lesser Known Jewish ry, only one Broadway Recording Artists cast album and a solo LP ~ Contributed by Charles Berger in 1964 have been is- He was probably known best for his TV sued. He has had only roles in "Bat Masterson" (1958-1961) several singles. There and "Burke's Law" (1963-1966, 1994- was one in 1959 on Cap- 1995). His movie appearances ranged itol - "I Want The Whole from "The Atomic City" in 1952 (his World To Love You" favorite) to the remake of "The War Of and "Soon". In 1962 on The Worlds" in 2005 where he appeared Felsted there was "Red as the character of Tom Cruise's father- Silk Stockings And in-law. To those who don't remember, Green Perfume" and he was the star of the original film!!! "Moonlight Gambler” (featured). (In 1957, On June 14, 1919, violinist Martin Frankie Laine's version Klass and singer Eva Klass welcomed of this song went to #3 into the world Eugene Klass in New York City. Gene on Billboard). Gene's version had almost the same ar- showed at an early age a talent as a violinist but when rangement and went nowhere. he broke his arm playing football at New Utrecht High School, he turned his attention to singing. He received He returned to Broadway in 1983 and from the sound- a singing scholarship to the Chatham Square School Of track of "La Cage Aux Folles" on RCA, Gene sang "Song Music and was there for two years. During this time he On The Sand....". He was nominated for a Tony award sang at such venues as nightclubs, fairs, and vaude- for actor in a musical in this presentation. Ironically, his ville. He even won a prize on the "Talent Scouts" radio co-star George Hearn won this award. Throughout the program. 1980's, he continued to appear in musicals as well as a one-man cabaret show "Gene Barry In One". He changed his last name to "Barry" in honor of John Barrymore and GENE BARRY went into Broadway On December 9, 2009 at the age of 90, Gene died of heart theater. His first role was in 1942 in "New Moon" and failure in Woodland Hills, CA. His grave marker in- he was in several shows in the 1940's. In 1944, he met cludes the words "A Class Act", probably a reference to Betty Kalb while rehearsing for the Broadway show his given name "Klass". "Class" or "Klass" apply equal- "Catherine Was Great". They married that year and had ly. two sons - Michael (1946) and Frederic (1953). In 1967, the couple adopted daughter Elizabeth. Gene and Betty had been married for 59 years until her death in 2003. When his stage career began to fade, he went to Hollywood to begin a movie acting career. Have an opinion? Like to write?

Newsletter contributions are Shop at always welcome…

Congregation Adath Israel Have family or student news you would like to share? Contact: AmazonSmile is the same Amazon you know. [email protected] Same products, same prices, same service. Please note that current and past copies of the Support Congregation Adath Israel by starting your newsletter can be found on the synagogue web- shopping at: site, www.congadathisrael.org http://smile.amazon.com/ch/06-1365965

THE NEZVESKY SCHOOL

Last month we had our annual Purim Carnival on Sunday March 20 and a splendid time was had by all. The carnival began with an inspiring magic show by MagicLee and a purimspiel read by Lynn Wie- ner in the sanctuary. We had many familiar games and projects and some new ones, including Hamen- taschen in a jar, organized by Rosalie Newman.

I'd like to thank all who participated in organizing the event. First, special thanks are due to Laura Goldstein for purchasing the prizes and setting up the games and Marina Arena for organizing volunteers. I'd also like to thank Robyn Anton, Eric Linnetz, Jodi Markowsky, Jack Nahmias, Rosalie New- man, Stacey and Larry Schumer, Pam Tassiello, Jessica Tendler Sachs, and Cara Tingley , for setting up and breaking down and providing supervision at the games, food and prize tables. Special kudos to Cara Tingley and Susan Rubin for hamentaschen and pizza. We also had a number of teen volunteers, including Rachel Arena, Jacob Markowsky, Jonathan Nahmias, Jack Schectman, Matt Schumer, Allie Tassiello, Adrianna Tingley and Eric Vine. We were also pleased to see both of Rabbi Schectman's children participating, Jack helping out with Rosalie Newman's craft project and Halaylah enjoying herself with the children of the Hebrew School.

This April we will have a school dinner on the Family Service night of April 1. The service is early and short so that families with young children can attend without it running too late in the evening. We look forward to seeing all of our grades there. On April 9, we will welcome Eric Vine as he is called to the Torah as our newest Bar Mitzvah and congratulate Eric and his parents, Laura Goldstein and Steven Vine on this special day.

On April 24, we will hold a Model Seder during Sunday School. This will take place on the second day of Passover and will be led by Rabbi Schectman as we will celebrate Passover with the school and families. The Seder will be sponsored by grades 3 & 6. We look forward to seeing everyone there.

David Smith, Education Chair 203-364-1788 [email protected]

Tuesday, March 22

The 4th and 5th grade classes enjoyed an afternoon at Katherine Kohrman’s house baking Hamantahsen for the Purim Holiday.

Ima Abba v’Ani

PRE-SCHOOL PLAYGROUP for children ages 2 to 5 (children not yet enrolled in Kindergarten) and their parent or caregiver. Children learn about the Jewish holidays in an age-appropriate way, make crafts, sing and dance, and have a GREAT time. This program is led by Jodi Markowsky and meets once a month from 9:30 to 10:30 on Sunday mornings during the school year. And it is FREE to attend.

We ask that a parent or caregiver remain with the child during the class and that you bring a small snack and drink. It is strongly encouraged that the snack be nut-free (i.e. no peanut butter products).

Playgroup dates remaining for this school year: April 5 & May 1

Call or email the office to reserve your spot! 203-426-5188 or [email protected]

Purim fun! Sunday March 20

Photos by Leslie Murray

UPCOMING ACTIVITIES & EVENTS

MAH JONG MADNESS

Mondays 7:00 PM

at Adath Israel

For both experienced and beginner players

Come join in on the fun!

http://adath.ticketleap.com/hypno-lorenzo-comedy-hypnosis-show/

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS & EVENTS

444 Main Street North | Southbury | CT | 06488

Jewish Federation Bus Trip! Lower East Side of NYC! Sunday, May 22, 2016 Join us for a great day, as we travel to the Lower East Side for a day of cultural fun. Reserve your seat today- Call for tickets! 203-267-3177

Foundation Scholarship Info College scholarship applications are due April 30th! The Foundation has created an informative financial aid website for students and their parents to receive information on the costs to attend college and how to finance those costs. There is a technical school program available for Waterbury residents as well. Visit us at www.jfed.net/Foundation/scholarships to download your application now. Hurry to get your application in by the April 30th Col- lege Scholarship deadline.

Foundation Campership Info Jewish Summer Camp applications are due April 15th! Jewish camping experiences are one of the best ways to cultivate Jewish identity in children and teens. Due to the large number of requests, compli- ance with all requirements are strictly enforced, and any application not received in the Foundation office by April 15th will not be considered. Our guidelines have changed. Please visit www.jfed.net/Foundation/camperships to get your application now. Submit your completed application to [email protected].

IN MEMORIAM Yahrzeits: April 2016 CONTACT INFORMATION

6 Apr 27 Adar II Stephen Weinrib, Father of Amy Greenfield Office Phone: 203-426-5188

8 Apr 29 Adar II Theresa Block, Wife of Dan and mother of Jake Block Rabbi Barukh Schectman [email protected] 8 Apr 29 Adar II Ruth Kalish, Grandmother of Pam Tassiello 9 Apr 1 Nisan Elizabeth Stratford, Mother of Ival Kovner Administrative Assistant: Susan Rubin [email protected] 10 Apr 2 Nisan Irving Trager, Father of Joyce Goldin 10 Apr 2 Nisan Alex Rosenthal, Father of Jonas Rosenthal 2015 – 2016 Officers of the Board

11 Apr 3 Nisan Sylvia Kaye, Mother of Gary Kaye President: Bob Rubinstein [email protected] 19 Apr 11 Nisan Jeffry Nezvesky, Brother of Janis Schertzer, Jay and Joel Nezvesky Vice - President: Amy Greenfield 20 Apr 12 Nisan Jerry Wiener, Father of David Wiener Vice - President: Rosalie Newman Vice - President: Susan Wilson 21 Apr 13 Nisan Sue Shapiro, Mother of Diane Gamse [email protected]

21 Apr 13 Nisan Louis Rubinstein, Father of Robert Rubinstein Treasurer: Lauren DiMartino 25 Apr 17 Nisan Gloria Brotman, Sister of Florence Rubinstein [email protected]

26 Apr 18 Nisan Kalman Spigel, Father of Ruth Theaman Secretary: Mark Silverman [email protected] 27 Apr 19 Nisan Helen Rubenstein, Mother of David Rubenstein 29 Apr 21 Nisan Richard Mott, Father of Sara Barnes Member at Large: Jim Arena Member at Large: Steven Bamberg 30 Apr 22 Nisan Shaul Kochwa, Mother of Varda Kruman 2015 – 2016 Committee Chairpersons

… and let us not forget Birthday Books: Mardi Smith

13 Apr 5 Nisan Alex Lonky Education Chairperson: David Smith [email protected] 15 Apr 7 Nisan Goldie Chernoff Freedman 19 Apr 11 Nisan Max Busker School Parent Coordinator: Cara Tingley [email protected] 21 Apr 13 Nisan Harry N. Newman Teen Volunteer Coordinator: Stacey Schumer 21 Apr 13 Nisan Rachel Geller Federation Rep: (position available) 23 Apr 15 Nisan Jacob Nezvesky 23 Apr 15 Nisan Katie Rachel Epstein Fundraising: (position available) [email protected] 25 Apr 17 Nisan Hannah Kaufman Honorarium: Susan Rubin [email protected]

BRONZE MEMORIAL NAMEPLATE House: Mark Silverman [email protected]

If you wish to install a memorial nameplate in the sanctuary, Membership: Jodi Markowsky please contact Susan Rubin at 203-426-5188 or [email protected]

by email [email protected] Men’s Club: Tod Bogdanoff [email protected]

Newsletter: Susan Rubin [email protected]

ADVERTISING YOUR BUSINESS Programs: (position available) IN THE NEWSLETTER [email protected]

Business card size: Publicity: Karen Klein [email protected] $10 monthly / $90 yearly Ritual: Katherine Kohrman 1/4 page: $15 mo. / $135 yr. [email protected] 1/2 page: $25 mo. / $225 yr. Safety: David Wiener Full page: $45 mo. / $405 yr. [email protected]

Sisterhood: Bonnie Goldstein Email: [email protected] [email protected]

DONATIONS HOST

We gratefully acknowledge the following contributions to temple funds: AN ONEG

General Fund OR KIDDUSH Rosalind Berger in memory of her mother, Tillie Levy Bonnie & Bob Goldstein in memory of Bonnie's mother, Barbara Hosting a Friday Oneg or Saturday Kid- Magilnick dush is performing a Mitzvah for our Alyce Block in memory of her daughter-in-law, Theresa Block community. After services is a time Florence & Bob Rubinstein in memory of Florence's father, Charles when we have a chance to slow down Weiss and catch up on the weekly events Susan Wilson in memory of her father, Stephen Jay Portnoy with our fellow congregants. Diane Gamse in memory of her mother, Sue Shapiro Rita Frost in memory of her mother, Sylvia Frost It’s not only a Mitzvah, but a way for Rita Frost in memory of her husband, Francis J. Caro you to celebrate an event in your fami- Mark Sochard ly and share the good news with our congregation. Many people host to Building Fund commemorate birthdays, anniver- Sylvia Nahoum in memory of her mother, Marie Glantz saries, engagements, awards, gradua- tions, victories and other happy occa- sions. You may also host in memory of a loved one. Of course, you don’t THANK YOU need a reason to host and you may

also buddy up and host with a friend. For sponsoring our March Kiddush, Onegs & Holidays If you wish to participate in this Mitz- vah or for more information, please Friday, March 4— families celebrating Shabbat Across America e-mail the office at Saturday, March 19—The Brodsky Family in honor of Bella’s Bat Mitzvah [email protected]

Wednesday March 23—Megillah Reading — Friday Oneg Dates Available Katherine Kohrman and the 4th & 5th grade classes April 29 Friday, March 25—Charles & Rosalind Berger in honor of their May 6, 13, 20, 27 58th Anniversary June 17, 24 August 12, 26

“LEAVE YOUR LEGACY Saturday Kiddush Dates Available

May 21 ON THE TREE OF LIFE”

Celebrate a special day with us! A great way to honor past and present Honor an achievement, birthday or family members and friends anniversary. Do a mitzvah. Sponsor an Oneg or Kiddush this year.

Large Leaf—$1800. each; Small Leaf—$180. each Reserve your date now!

Order forms available at the synagogue or by emailing [email protected]