Brooklyn Region Winter 2014

BROOKLYN REGION WINTER 2014

Hadassah Brooklyn Region Invites you to join us for some Amazing Winter Events HBR President's Message Janet Young

Dear Hadassah Sisters, Associates and Friends, BROOKLYN REGION I want to give a hearty Mazal Tov to all our chapters and EXECUTIVE BOARD members for working so hard throughout 2013. You brought in President new members and increased your fundraising efforts with great Janet Young programs. Brooklyn Region had so many wonderful events for our members, that it is Treasurer no wonder why we are such a close community. Barbara Katz I am delighted to report that Hadassah met its $176,600 Double Your Impact, 2013 Recording Secretary Matching Gift Challenge. Thanks to overwhelming support from Hadassah Members, Diane Hunt Associates and supporters, our Double Your Impact Matching Gift Challenge was a huge Corresponding Secretaries success. I am confident that this success will continue this year. While we are aware of Susan Klein the challenges ahead in fulfilling our commitments to HMO to ensure that we provide Florence Manglani vital lifesaving excellence in medical care in Israel, and stellar medical research that Education VP benefits humanity, we are steadfast. We are all passionate for our mission and keep Brenda Rosenbaum Hadassah warmly in our hearts. Programming VP Marlene Lempert Historically, strength is in numbers, so do your best to continue to bring in new Fundraising VP members this year. Share the joy of Hadassah Membership with family and friends. Let Alma Krull them know what a wonderful organization we are and how friendly and caring our Membership VP members are. Invite them to your chapter's events and to our Brooklyn Region events. Ilene Shapiro Now you can double your impact, and Hadassah's, when you make a gift of “life Caryn Tanditash membership” to a friend or family member for just $212 (payment plan available.) In Honorary VPs addition, you will get a multi-generational Hadassah pin of your choice! Gail Hammerman Each New Year we make resolutions. We want to be more productive, clean out the Francine Klugerman closets or basement, call our family and friends more often, etc. Yet somehow, in the Roni Schwartz flow of daily life, we tend to lose focus. We can disagree on what changes we need to Claire Shapiro make, but we can all agree that without our health we have nothing. Hadassah knows Judi Silversmith Shirley Ugelow this, and wants to help us live healthy lives. Are a VPs Cardiovascular disease kills more women than men in the U.S., and women present Enid Benezra symptoms differently than men. We want you to learn about risk factors, prevention Harriet Sayer and detection of heart disease, the #1 cause of death among women in the U.S. and worldwide. On Sunday, March 23rd at 9AM, at the East Midwood Jewish Center, we are presenting an exciting morning of heart health awareness. Brooklyn Region, in BULLETIN STAFF cooperation with the Maimonides Medical Center and the East Midwood Jewish Center, under the leadership of Hadassah's Myrtle Wreath recipient Elaine Sarfati, RN, MS, our Editor-in-Chief Irene Stundel Health and Wellness Chair, are collaborating on a very comprehensive morning program Associate Editor on heart health. You will learn about signs, risk factors, and symptoms of heart attack and Marilyn Cranney stroke, and learn about prevention, treatment, and coping strategies. You will start the Margaret McDonough morning with a stress reduction, stretching, and relaxation session with Sally Hipscher. Design Editor We will learn from top professionals in the field of cardiology and get nutritional Esther Lefkowitz Reporters information, and learn about delicious ways to cook heart healthy meals with Sarina Carol Dolman Roffé. There will be free health screenings and you will go home with printouts of your Linda Drucker screenings to bring to your personal doctor for review. Please invite your neighbors, Shelli Feldman family, friends, and your adult children to register (see flyer) to join us for a great morning Barbara Gershuny with a kosher, light, heart healthy, dairy brunch, and to learn about living heart healthier Ethel Gold Alma Krull lives. (See flyer inside.) Marlene Lempert On Thursday, February 27th, join us for a joyous celebration at our program “G-d, Evelyn Pincus Israel, and the Heart." This is a perfect jump-start to our big “Every Beat Counts” Sarina Roffé program on March 23rd! (See flyer inside.) Brenda Rosenbaum I look forward to seeing you at our region and chapter events, and wish you a healthy, Elaine Sarfati Ilene Shapiro warm, safe and successful year! Ruth N. Siegel Sheila Silverman B’Shalom, Caryn Tanditash

Brooklyn Region News 2 Winter 2014 FUNDRAISING REPORT JEWISH EDUCATION VP REPORT Alma Krull V.P. Fundraising Brenda Rosenbaum On October 27, 2013, Brooklyn Region We are looking forward to an exciting Winter into Spring recognized its members who had contributed Jewish Education programming. Our successful Ivrit $1,000 or more (above and beyond their chapter L'Hadassah continues on Wednesdays. Our January 13th Go contributions) to Hadassah in 2013. The Forth and Study discussed “The Wanting” by members purchased a Yahrzeit, was a Keeper Michael Lavigne. On April 7th the book will be of the Gate, purchased an annuity at “Those Who Save Us” by J. Blum and June 9th we Hadassah’s outstanding rates (far superior to will meet again for the final book before summer bank rates), or became a centennial founder. hiatus, the book TBA . On February 27th we will have the Thirty guests attended the event at Alma & appetizer to the special Region program on heart health Burton Krull’s home. They received an update (Every Beat Counts 3/23/14), entitled “G-d, Israel, and the on Hadassah from Janice Weinman, Executive Heart”. We will feature a program about Tu B'Shvat, a skit Director & CEO of Hadassah National. We also about the seven species, delicious heart healthy fruit and so heard from Michael Miller, Executive Vice much more (see flyer inside). We are planning to have our President & CEO of the Jewish Community First Hadassah Annual Shabbat Zachor Service in March in Relations Council. It was a most informative collaboration with the East Midwood Jewish Center. Stay afternoon which included a luscious lunch. tuned for a flyer/email as soon as the arrangements are Our upcoming Chai Society recognition is completed. We are also looking forward to another education being planned for May 4th. Our $1,000 series by Dr. Susan Aronoff when she becomes available. recognition is being planned for September, 2014. I hope that there will be so many members eligible to attend that there will be PROGRAMMING VP UPDATE insufficient space to hold them all. I’m looking forward to seeing all of you at our future Marlene Lempert events. We will kick off the new year with some very exciting Any questions about becoming a Chai programs. Society, Keeper, or other contributor, call Alma Our Winter Education Program will be on February Krull at 917-369-9233. 27th “G-d, Israel & the Heart” (see flyer inside). On March 17th we will have our annual Purim Party (see flyer inside) where we will celebrate our Chapters and have a concert produced by Area Vice President Enid Our Go Forth and Study Book Club Benezra and her husband Jack. What will our office continued this January with “The manager Esther Lefkowitz and little Ava come dressed as this year? On March 23rd we have our Heart Health Wanting” by Michael Lavigne, led by Awareness program “Every Beat Counts” (see flyer Laura Goldberg. As always the women inside). On April 7th we have our next Go Forth and enjoyed a lively discussion. Study Book Club with Education Vice President Brenda Rosenbaum. In May we will thank our Chai Society and Major Donors with our annual brunch. It’s not too late for you to join the Chai Society (see ad inside). In June we will celebrate Israel as we march in the annual Celebrate Israel Parade. We will also have another Go Forth and Study Book Club, and to finish off the month our annual Spring Concert with the Hadar Foundation. I hope to see you all at our upcoming events and stay tuned for more things to come during 2014.

Brooklyn Region News 3 Winter 2014 M MEMBER GET A MEMBER E M Ilene Shapiro and Caryn Tanditash, Membership Vice Presidents B U E For 2014, you can Double Your Impact for the Member-Get A Member Campaign. P R Any Hadassah member who gifts a $212 life membership receives a D S multigenerational pin of their choice as outlined in the online enrollment forms. A H Associate membership remains the same, but there will be no gift. Tell all your T I family & friends that this is a wonderful way to show their continuing support for E P Hadassah by giving a loved one a gift of a life membership.

JEWISH TRIVIA with Brenda JEWISH/ZIONIST EDUCATION — BOOST YOUR JEWISH I.Q .

1. The original reason behind Tu B’Shevat was 5. What famous Jew was born and died during a. Tithing the month of Adar? b. Ecological a. Herzl c. Reminder of Adam’s eating of b. King David the tree of knowledge c. Danny Kaye d. Relieving winter boredom d. Moses

2. Tu B’Shevat should remind us that 6. How many days does Adar 1 have? a. The world belongs to G-d a. 30 days b. Man and G-d are partner b. 28 days in preserving the Earth c. 29 days c. The heavens belong to G-d and the d. 31 days earth belongs to man d. The Big Bang created the universe 7.The megillah states the 3. On Tu B’Shevat we traditionally eat month of Adar is: a. watermelon a. The 5th month of the Hebrew calendar b. cantelope b. The 12th month of the Hebrew calendar c. apples c. A month before Aviv (spring) d. carob d. The leap year month

4. Today in Israel Tu B’Shevat is celebrated with a a. Barbeque

b. Planting of trees

b . 7 a . 6 d . 5 b . 4 d . 3 b . 2 a . 1 : s r e w s n c. Day of fasting A d. Day of feasting

Brooklyn Region News 4 Winter 2014 Brooklyn Region News 5 Winter 2014 HMO UPDATES Hadassah Researchers Use Functional MRI to Detect Responsiveness in Unconscious Patients The clinical evaluation of consciousness in Disorder familiarity, imagery, and visual responsiveness. of Consciousness (DOC) patients, based on their The authors report: In 9 patients, they found exhibited behavior, is difficult and remains erroneous auditory-related activation; however, in many cases," report researchers at the Hadassah only in 5 of the subjects was Medical Organization. differential activation found for Aiming to determine the plausibility and challenges language. Six patients exhibited of implementing a clinical service to evaluate the differential response to their own consciousness level in patients suffering from (DOC), name. In three patients, a response to the researchers found via Functional MRI that different visual stimuli was identified. In one patient, the patients exhibited different degrees of responsiveness. auditory and linguistic systems were clearly activated They explain that recent studies demonstrate different in a hierarchical pattern and, moreover, willful levels of stimulus processing, as well as evidence of modulation of brain activity was identified in the some level of awareness in sub-groups of these imagery test. patients. Lead Author of the study was Atira S. Bick, With 500 beds, 19 stories (five underground) and coordinator of the clinical service in Hadassah's state-of-the-art technical equipment, the Tower is the Functional MRI Unit. The original research article, most advanced medical facility in the Middle East. entitled "Implementing Novel Imaging Methods for The study was composed of 11 patients (ages 11-67), Improved Diagnosis of Disorder of Consciousness who were diagnosed as being in either vegetative or Patients", appears in the Journal of the Neurological minimally conscious states. Using Functional MRI, Sciences, Volume 334, Issues 1–2, 15 November 2013, researchers evaluated auditory, language, voice Pages 130-138.

David Project Campus Advocates Engage at Hadassah We have seen and heard so much about the (Middle Chagall windows. The morning group visited the East) conflict, that it's a relief to see a place which is an Charlotte R. Bloomberg Mother and Child Center, island of peace,” said a where the students witnessed the full array of ethnic member of the David groups among the pediatric patients. The afternoon Project delegation, which group visited the Judy and Sidney Swartz Center for visited the Hadassah Emergency Medicine, where adults of all different eth - Medical Organization on nic groups were being treated. The morning group met January 2nd. Dr. Amjad Faran, a Jordanian/Palestinian resident in The David Project is a anesthesiology, who shared his experience as a Boston-based Israel advo - Palestinian working in Hadassah's hospital. He told cacy organization, which educates campus activists the delegates that his residency is the envy of from around North America. A key element of its edu - Palestinian colleagues who are studying in other coun - cational program is the “Israel Uncovered” mission, tries. “They are in good programs,” he said, “but I get which takes students to Israel to learn about the coun - to do far more than they do and have superior train - try firsthand. Past National Hadassah President Nancy ing.” Falchuk sits on the David Project board and ensured Dr. Faran added: “There's also an emphasis on that a visit to Hadassah was research, even for residents, so that this will become an on the delegates’ itinerary. important part of my medical career.” Responding to One bus of the students, the students’ questions, Dr. Faran said he had never representing diverse ethnic had difficulty with patients rejecting him because he is backgrounds, arrived at a Palestinian, and that he is a totally integrated mem - Hadassah in the morning ber of the department. Dr. Faran lives in Ramallah with and the second, in the after - his wife and child, and his only complaint is the extra noon. Both groups toured time it takes him to get home. the Sarah Wetsman Davidson Hospital Tower and the

Brooklyn Region News 6 Winter 2014 Those Who Save Us by Jenna Blum

Monday, April 7, 2014, 1-3 PM

Hadassah Brooklyn Region Office 1625 Ocean Avenue, Brooklyn NY (between Avenues K & L)

$10 per sessions in advance, $15 per session at the door (Non-Hadassah Members $15 in advance, $20 at door)

Light Refreshments will be served

Questions? E-mail us at [email protected], type Brenda in the subject line.

For fifty years, Anna Schlemmer has refused to talk about her life in Germany during World War II. Her daughter, Trudy, was only three when she and her mother were liberated by an American soldier and went to live with him in Minnesota. Trudy's sole evidence of the past is an old photograph: a family portrait showing Anna, Trudy, and a Nazi officer, the Obersturmfuhrer of Buchenwald.

Driven by the guilt of her heritage, Trudy, now a professor of German history, begins investigating the past and finally unearths the dramatic and heartbreaking truth of her mother's life.

Combining a passionate, doomed love story, a vivid evocation of life during the war, and a poignant mother/daughter drama, Those Who Save Us is a profound exploration of what we endure to survive and the legacy of shame

The book is available at the Brooklyn Public Library and book sellers.

Reply by 4/4/14 to: Brenda Rosenbaum, 915 East 17th Street, (Apt. 201) Brooklyn 11230 [ ] Reserve ___ seat(s) ($10 members, $15 non-members) [ ] I would also like to contribute $ ______to help support the extraordinary work of Hadassah! $____ enclosed. Please make your check payable to Hadassah Check # ______.

Name ______Address ______Apt ______Zip ______Phone ______E-mail ______

Photos may be taken at this event for our website, or newsletter. If you do not wish your photo taken, please tell the photographer. You may obtain a copy of Hadassah’s Financial report by writing to the Hadassah Finance Department, 50 West 58 Street, New York, NY 10019.

Brooklyn Region News 7 Winter 2014 HONORING ELAINE SARFATI AT OUR CHANUKAH CELEBRATION by Marlene Lempert On Monday afternoon, December 2, 2013, Hadassah enthusiasm and integrity are powerful attributes that members and friends came from all parts of Brooklyn to have touched all of us. She is committed to the ideals of celebrate Chanukah and enjoy our annual Hadassah. She has served Hadassah for many years Chanukah/Journal Luncheon honoring Elaine Sarfati. and in many positions including President of Highway- Celebrating the “The Festival of Lights” with Hadassah West, Naomi Hannah Yassky, and presently as President has become a tradition that makes the holiday experience of Tamar. President Janet Young presented Ruth with more meaningful. the Brooklyn Region 2014 Leadership Award. Needless Marlene Lempert, Programming VP welcomed to say Ruth was touched and surprised, and very everyone. She created beautiful table centerpieces that appreciative. "I am proud to be member of this reflected Hadassah’s value of tikkun olam, which was Hadassah family" she said. Thank you for your embodied by the extraordinary Hurricane Sandy Relief leadership Ruth. May you go from strength to strength. work done by our honoree, Elaine Sarfati. Janet Young presented her with a special copy of the Janet Young, Brooklyn Region President, gave us up Hadassah Brooklyn Region Journal. dates on Hadassah We celebrated the medical care and publication if the research. Janet Young Hadassah Brooklyn welcomed Kathleen Region Journal 2013 Marcario, Asst. Vice dedicated to Elaine President and Branch Sarfati for her Manager of Astoria extraordinary Federal Savings Bank. leadership organizing Kathleen greeted us and facilitating relief and expressed her efforts for the victims appreciation for the of Hurricane Sandy in wonderful work the Gerritsen Beach Hadassah does as a community in bridge to peace Brooklyn and in her through state of the art home town of Far medical research and Rockaway. Elaine health care. Everyone embodies the spirit of was delighted by the our founder, Henrietta handy gifts she gave Szold. In the wake of out compliments of the program’s sponsor, Astoria Hurricane Sandy, in the face of darkness, destruction, Federal Savings Bank. and chaos, Elaine recognized the needs of the victims, The Installation of the 2014 Brooklyn Region Board was and without hesitation, sprang into action and did what conducted by Doris Geller who discussed how important had to be done. She created a plan and got support from our Board Members are, who spend a great deal of their her nursing students and the Brooklyn South time planning and taking care of Region business. For a community. Her passion and enthusiasm influenced change of tempo Enid (Area VP) and Associate Jack others to cook, donate, and make trips to bring relief, Benezra delighted everyone with a reading of a Chanukah supplies, and hot food to the hardest hit neighborhoods. Story by Isaac Bashevis Singer. Gail Hammerman presented Elaine Sarfati with a Janet Young discussed the video, “Choose to Make Your special proclamation from Marty Markowitz, Brooklyn Impact With Hadassah”, and how important the choices Borough President, in which December 2nd was we make by our contributions in both volunteer and proclaimed Elaine Sarfati Day! financial support are to the mission of Hadassah. Hadassah's Myrtle Wreath Award is one of the most Ruth Siegel, Tamar President, is a Hadassah treasure. prestigious tributes awarded by the organization. It is She has honored us with her participation in Hadassah bestowed upon individuals who have made significant activities and projects for decades. Her warmth, sincerity, Chanukah continues on p. 13

Brooklyn Region News 8 Winter 2014 ! ""# $ %"&' ! ( ) * " +, -. ,/0 1! ! ('2 3' % " ""#

! "# $% &' () * + , - -"."//" 0111111 $11111111111111111111111111111111111111111111+ -1111111111111111111111111 ,2 11111111111111111111111111111111111111111111 11111111111111111111111111 ( 3 011111

Brooklyn Region News 9 Winter 2014 AROUND THE REGION

BAY RIDGE CHAPTER MEDINAH CHAPTER Barbara Gershuny and Carol Dolman, Presidents Evelyn Pincus, Social Secretary Health and Happiness in the New Year to all in the Shalom Chavarim, Hadassah family. At our open meeting in September, Jane To usher in 2014, the Bay Ridge Chapter sponsored a Gleiberman gave a book report on “The Lost fundraising luncheon on Sunday, January 12th. The theme of Wife” by Alyson Richman. We had a lovely the luncheon was "Chicken Soup for the Body and Soul". The discussion afterward. We also had our Turkey discussion moved from the role of chicken soup in helping to Raffle kick-off. Diane Hunt was our Hostess. cure colds and other physical ills to healing afflictions of the At our meeting in October, Shirley Rand, ably soul. Were grandma and mom right when they served us assisted by Ethel Gold, presented a musical chicken soup when we were sick, especially with a cold? Our program that allowed us to hear Jewish music discussion showed that, yes, there are curative properties in as it evolved through the ages. We all chicken soup. To deal with the healing of the soul, we talked thoroughly enjoyed the program and had a about the power that the inspirational and uplifting stories long discussion afterwards. Pearl Light was found in the series of books called "Chicken Soup For The our Hostess. Soul" by Canfield and Hansen have had on positively In November, our annual Fall Luncheon at changing people's lives--healing their souls. The program the Mirage Diner, chaired by Evelyn Pincus, then focused on the concept of having a soul and how that was well attended. The girls had a lovely notion impacts on the work we do for Hadassah. social afternoon. Also in November at our Participants enjoyed a delicious vegetarian meal at a local monthly meeting we had the Turkey Raffle restaurant. The chapter is looking forward to hosting more drawing. Ros Kirschenbaum had the winning events this year. Please stay tuned. ticket. Thanks to Maxime Zalstein for chairing this fundraiser and presenting a program that brought us up to date on Israeli Affairs which Hadassah’s is her specialty. Evelyn Pincus was our 97th National Hostess. Convention The December meeting was cancelled due to imagineimmaagginne inclement weather. Our annual New Year’s Day luncheon was held at 3 Star Restaurant July 21-24, 2014 and we all had a lovely time. The afternoon Las Vegas was well-planned by Chairperson Joan Rosof. During January and February we have our

winter recess and resume activities in March. We always have our ongoing fundraising with MANHATTAN BEACH CHAPTER the sale of Mah Jongg cards, greeting cards, Linda Drucker, President trees, certificates, health seals, tickets to Manhattan Beach chapter of Hadassah is back after a Brooklyn College events, Count Your difficult year. We have survived Hurricane Sandy's Blessings and our Simcha Cake at every devastation and severe illness. Thank G-D. Our first fund meeting. raising event is sold out. On February 9, 2014 we are having Although small in number, we consider a trip to the Brooklyn Navy Yard. It includes a bus tour of ourselves a very vibrant and close knit group. the entire Navy Yard, a kosher lunch, and a docent led tour Thanks to all our Medinah members for their of the Navy Yard museum. We will also be planning a everlasting commitment to Hadassah, Israel Spring event to be announced soon. and the Jewish People.

Brooklyn Region News 10 Winter 2014 AROUND THE REGION

PARK SLOPE CHAPTER — E thel Gold, President We begin 2014 ready to tackle new challenges. group that smuggled children from France into Thanks to our wonderful membership and Executive Switzerland in the fall of 1943. We look forward to her Board we continue to present innovative programs presentation. that stimulate our minds, encourage participation and Park Slope invites everyone to our wonderful set goals for fundraising that benefit new and ongoing Passover Women's Seder on March 31 led by Rabbi projects at Hadassah. Heidi Hoover and organized by Hazel Tishcoff. To recap our final activities of 2013: The 2nd Mah Experience a fantastic program recognizing Jongg Tournament in November was a great success. outstanding women through the ages, tasting charoset Although weary from 7 hours of playing, the women from many cultures and joining us in festive dancing. and one male had an enjoyable day. Thanks to Sarina Plans for our April book discussion are in the works. Roffe for organizing the event and Rebecca Schneier Title and facilitator TBD as well as details for a docent for tallying the scores on the computer and helping to led museum tour in the Fall. set up the lunch and snack tables. Congrats to the one Future events are being planned. We need your table of "beginners" that ventured and succeeded in support! Your contributions to Hadassah in Israel and honing their skills learned at our teaching sessions. around the world make an IMPACT! The Installation Ceremony - "A Seed Is Hope - The Flower Is Joy" was a bittersweet evening. Roni Schwartz, National VP Chair Young Judaea, Past Second Mah Jongg Tournament Held President Brooklyn Region & Park Slope Chapter officiated. Ushering out the 2013 Board with certificates and flowers was truly a heartwarming Park Slope Hadassah, in coordination with moment. In addition, welcoming in the 2014 mostly Brooklyn Region, held its second Mah Jongg "re-installed" Board members and Officers was a joy. Tournament on Sunday, November 24 at East As each was handed a "packet of seeds" they were Midwood Jewish Center. charged with planting the seeds of success in their The event drew serious Mah Jongg players particular portfolio. We celebrated with champagne from all over Brooklyn and Staten Island. The and luscious desserts. only tournament in Brooklyn, the event included As always our Hanukkah Fest was fabulous. Shlomo a light breakfast and lunch. Chaired by Sarina Haviv and Park Slope member Michelle Feldman Roffé, helpers included Ethel Gold, Club entertained us with wonderful Hanukkah songs in President, and Rebecca Schneier, as well as Hebrew, English & Yiddish. Todah to Sally Hipscher Linda Garmisa. for leading us in dance. We had a terrific response to Players played according to national Mah our auction bids and were thrilled that we were able to Jongg League rules, with 50 minutes permitted contribute seven overly large black bags filled with for each round of four games. There were four toys, dolls, books and puzzles to the Ohel Children's morning rounds and three afternoon rounds. Home & Family Services. Gail Griffel, Barbara Katz, First prize was $125, second prize was $50 and Gail Fier and Merrie Melman - many thanks for your third prize was $25. The tournament was a huge tireless efforts in organizing this event. success and all the participants said they would We begin January, 2014 with our Pot Luck Dinner & come again if the event was repeated. Book discussion - "The Sisters Weiss" by Naomi Ragen The scheduling of the next Mah Jongg led by Lynn Reicher. On February 27 we will host Tournament is to be determined. author, Nan Lefenfeld who will address the subject of Jewish Humanitarian Resistance in France during the Sarina Roffé Shoah. She will highlight the work of the MJS, a Jewish

Brooklyn Region News 11 Winter 2014 ! " #$%#&'&# (%) ' *+,*-./" 0-- 1.+- 1.2*3$ # " " 8 "" ( = $ B # ' ""

' % # " ' A # !' ! ! = ! $' B' # 4 "5 5) 6 7$%1%14$8%9 &8()' :.; <= +>0?:+- <' ? (@ & =

! " # $% &'( ) # *+,+- . " "/ 01 2333333 -" .) */!33333333333333333333333333333334 !33333333333333333333 !3333333333333 */!33333333333333333333333333333334 !33333333333333333333 !3333333333333

Brooklyn Region News 12 Winter 2014 Chanukah continues from p. 8 New York Metro Area Leadership Symposium: CREATE - ADVOCATE - MOTIVATE contributions to Jewish Life -- in the United States or in Israel -- in politics, LEAD HADASSAH TO HIGHER GROUND diplomacy, science, the arts or Sunday, October 6, 2013 organization work. Past Brooklyn This was an absolutely fantastic day! 140 Hadassah Leaders in the Region Presidents Judi Silversmith and NY Metro Area attended this all day symposium. The speakers Shirley Ugelow presented Elaine Sarfati included: Hadassah President Marcie Natan, Consul for Media with the coveted Hadassah Myrtle Affairs from the Israeli Consulate Shahar Azani and Jeff Wilcox, Wreath Award, in recognition of her noted motivational speaker. work on behalf of Hadassah and Shahar Azani, Consul for Media Affairs, Israeli Consulate in New particularly to health care, and her relief York gave us a global overview of Israel as a light unto the world in effort following Hurricane Sandy. Ethel technology, energy, conservation and innovation. He shared his Gold, Elaine’s Park Slope Chapter views on the tensions in the Middle East and beyond. He repeatedly President, presented Elaine with flowers. thanked Hadassah for all we have done and continue to do for Elaine’s work continues as she is Israel. planning a special Hadassah program Jeffrey Wilcox, President, Third Sector Company, was the "Every Beat Counts", which targets heart presenter for the Leadership Focus at the symposium. He was health issues that impact women, men inspirational, motivational, and thought provoking. The concept of and their families. Elaine says that our Core Values in terms of identifying Hadassah as a “cause,” knowledge is one of the most powerful resonated with the attendees. He inspired us to challenge "business tools that a woman can have to protect herself and her family. Hadassah is as usual," and to think outside the box to mobilize our members in actively involved in educating women a call to action and to engage the younger generation. and their families about health from the Hadassah National President Marcie Natan gave us an update on perspective of healthy life choices to the wonderful successes in Hadassah Hospitals in Ein Kerem and preventing disease and promoting the Sarah Wetsman Davidson Hospital Tower in Mt. Scopus. She wellness. Elaine chairs this program on shared personal stories of her meetings with... March 23, 2014. Look for the flyer in this National President Marcie Natan gave symposium attendees an bulletin. update on patient care in Hadassah Hospital at Eil Kerem and at the Cantor Sam Levine entertained us Sarah Wetsman Davidson Hospital Tower in Mt. Scopus. with a wonderful interlude of music and The photo below shows the Committee presenting a certificate of song. Following the performance, Appreciation to Gail Hammerman, NY Metro Resource Chair for all of Eleene Schwartz, who worked hard this her hard work on this program. afternoon selling raffle tickets, began drawing and distributing the wonderful prizes that were contributed. Todah rabah to Janet Young, Gail Hammerman, Judi Silversmith, Marlene Lempert, Esther Lefkowitz, Diane Hunt, Enid Benezra, Jack Benezra, Joyce Klausner, Elaine Sarfati, Eleene Schwartz, Myra Schwartz, Cantor Sam Levine, Caryn Tanditash, Ruth Siegel, Shirley Ugelow, Ethel Gold, and Margaret McDonough, Kathleen Representing the Metro Region: Loren Roth, Pres. of Northern New Jersey Marcario of Astoria Federal, and Region; Rae Gurewitsch, Pres. of New York Region; Lorraine Richter, Pres. of everyone else who worked to make this Suffolk Region; Marcie Natan, Hadassah National President; Janet Young, Pres. such a successful program. of Brooklyn Region; Gail Hammerman, Metro Area Resource Chair; Viviane Kovacs, Pres. of Nassau Region; Caren Caplan, Pres. of Lower New York State Region and Deborah Wiskind, Pres. of Westchester Region.

Brooklyn Region News 13 Winter 2014 ! "# $ !%& '()* + ,-- . /0*1 + 2& '3'45 0'1 %& 6 7 8 & - 9 $": ; ; -: - - <

8+$;8+$;8+$; ,7 +6+$,7 +6+$,7 +6+$ % % % + + + ,:>;,:>;,:>; +:=+:=+:= +$+$+$

! " #$ %&' ( " )*+*, - ! !. /& 011111 ). 11111111111111111111111111111111112 11111111111111111111111 11111111111111111 ). 11111111111111111111111111111111112 11111111111111111111111 11111111111111111 3. ! ! 4!! ! . /11111111

Brooklyn Region News 14 Winter 2014 Message from Marcie Natan Strides for a Cure

We did it! Elaine Sarfati, Your donation was one of many that enabled Hadassah to meet its Women’s Health Chair $176,600 Double Your Impact, 2013 Matching Gift Challenge. You made a difference! On Sunday, Oct 20th a few Thanks to overwhelming support from Hadassah Members, Associates hearty women from Hadassah Brooklyn Region, with banner in and supporters, our Double Your Impact Matching Gift Challenge was a hand, walked the 3.5 mile huge success. The 2013 Match officially launched on Giving Tuesday, Making Strides Walk for Breast December 3, culminating with record breaking generosity on December 31. Cancer in Prospect Park. With Acts of tzedakah, from people just like you, are essential to the care of many fliers, phone calls and patients at Hadassah Medical Organization (HMO), the completion of the personal attempts made to get Sarah Wetsman Davidson Hospital Tower, and HMO's cutting-edge med - more people on board we ical research impacting Israel and the world. considered not having Hadassah participate as a group but will Thank you for all that you have done to ensure our success. continue to support the walk Have a happy and healthy 2014. and individuals who wish to walk.

[CHOOSE] WHERE YOU MAKE YOUR IMPACT is Hadassah’s new organizational campaign that supports our mission-driven, donor-centered, philosophy. When you support Hadassah, you make an [impact].

N You make broken lives whole and keep crucial medical research moving forward. N You help at-risk youth in Israel become productive and proud citizens. N You enable Jewish American youth to establish a lifetime connection to Israel and their heritage, helping to ensure a vibrant, committed Jewish community for future generations. N You empower women and enrich their lives through leadership development and Jewish, Zionist, and health education programs. Together, these women become advocates and activists who can transform the world.

Make your personal, positive tzedakah impact where it means the most to you. Choose the area that speaks to your heart and support it with a gift!

Brooklyn Region News 15 Winter 2014 Brunch & Learn With Author Yossi Klein Halevi: Like Dreamers: The Story of the Israeli Paratroopers Who Reunited Jerusalem and Divided a Nation by Adele Cohen On December 22, 2013, an audience of over 140 today’s political climate in the Middle East, while people gathered for a “Brunch and Learn” with author clearly respecting all views. Yossi Klein Halevi. He discussed his book “Like After hearing Mr. Halevi’s thought-provoking Dreamers: The Story of the Israeli Paratroopers Who discussion, this author can’t wait to sit down with his Reunited Jerusalem and Divided a Nation”. This book and gain a better understanding of many of engaging and very informative program was Israel’s internal debates. produced and facilitated by Dr. Howard Honigman Many thanks to everyone from The Institute for (President of the Institute for Living Judaism in Living Judaism, The East Midwood Jewish Center and Brooklyn,) in cooperation with Hadassah Brooklyn Hadassah Brooklyn Region who helped Dr. Honigman Region, and the East Midwood Jewish Center. make this the great success it was! A special todah Originally from Brooklyn, Mr. Halevi captivated the rabah to his wife Joanne Honigman and Sally audience as he discussed the theme of his book: a Hipscher! comparison of Israel’s liberal and conservative Sign up for the last in this three part series featuring movements. He illustrated his point with interviews best-selling author, Gershom Gorenberg, whose latest of seven men who were paratroopers in the brigade offering The Unmaking of Israel, was described by that conquered the Old City of Jerusalem in the 1967 Jeffrey Goldberg in the NY Times Book Review as, war. These men were forged into a cohesive military "...indispensable, closely argues, and conditionally unit, and later took what might appear to be opposite apocalyptic." This brunch and learn will be held on paths. A few became settler leaders, others went on to Sunday, January 19, 2014 at 11 AM at EMJC, $10 per be leaders in the Peace Now movement. Having made person (payable to ILJB.) Mail your check to the office! aliyah in 1982, he gave an honest Israeli perspective to

Left to right: Yossi Klein Halevi, author of “Like Dreamers: The Story of the Israeli Paratroopers Who Reunited Jerusalem and Divided a Nation”, Dr. Howard Honigman, President of The Institute of Living Judaism [ILJB], Joanne Honigman, ILJB Board Member, Janet R. Young, President Hadassah Brooklyn Region, Jay Young, Hadassah Associate

Insert: Janet R. Young, Emily Pariente, ILJB Board Member

Brooklyn Region News 16 Winter 2014 Mazal Tov To Hadassah Fellow Mollie Isaacson! Kudos to Mollie for being accepted into the very Project and Vital Voices Global Partnership, and was exclusive Hadassah Leadership Fellows Program! a Presidential Management Fellowship recipient and Mollie Isaacson of Brooklyn, New York, is a Life program participant. Mollie received her M.A. in Member of Hadassah and a Young Judaea alumna. International Affairs from George Washington She attended camps University, where she studied transnational crime Sprout Lake and Tel and human rights, and her B.A. in Political Science Yehudah for many years. and International Development Studies from McGill Mollie has spent time University. She speaks fluent Spanish and volunteering with the conversational Hebrew. Latin American and We are very proud of Mollie and wish her great joy Ethiopian immigrant and success as a Hadassah Fellow! communities in Israel and with at-risk communities in Latin America. She currently serves as a manager in the public sector, working on issues involving immigration policy, refugees and asylum- seekers, vulnerable children and victims of human trafficking. Mollie traveled to East Africa twice as part of teams assigned to interview refugees for resettlement. She has completed fellowships at several human rights and anti-trafficking non- governmental organizations, including the Polaris

! "#! $ % !% & & '(%) % * ! % !% + % + , -

Brooklyn Region News 17 Winter 2014 + 4 !! "# $# %& '!! # ! !# !#! # 1 ! ( ' !! ' )! ! * !""#$%&'( / )* + , -'( !* + , -' .+&/0%12' .+&/0%12' ) +, 0, 2, ) ., 2, 0+2 ! -,, 0/, 2, ! //+ -1+ 0+2 - ) 0 +, 0, 2, ) 0 ., 2, 0+2 ! 0/, 0, , ! -1+ 3+ , ) - +, 0, ) - ., 3+ ! 2, , ! 0++ , 0 ) / +, ) / ., ! 0, &" ! 3+ &" 3 # 3 # ) 1 +, ) 1 ., ! +, " ! 2+ " "4 "4 ) + +, -'( ) + 2+ -' ! , ! ,

We remember those we have loved, and lost… and the sweetness ahse they brought to our lives. Hadassah’s Perpetual Yahrzeit program ensures that Kaddish will be recited— in Jerusalem—for your loved ones. Every year. Forever. View video of synagogue, with breathtaking Chagall windows, where Kaddish is said. Go to www.hadassah.org/yahrzeit. For information or to establish a Yahrzeit, call 877.212.3321 or email [email protected]

Brooklyn Region News 18 Winter 2014 ZIONIST MUSEUM & WHAT IS ZIONISM TODAY? EDUCATION CENTER Have you ever wondered what Zionism means today when the At a very informative program, State of Israel already exists? The answer is complex and nuanced. Janet Young, Hadassah Brooklyn Gil Troy, Yossi Klein Halevi, Gusti Braverman, David Breakstone, Region President, was joined by Tova Birbaum Steven Cohen and others discussed and debated the Ruth Gursky, Immediate Past meaning of relevance of Zionism today. President of New York Region at Marcie Natan, Hadassah National President moderated panelists the Zionism Museum and Professor Gil Troy (McGill University), Rabbi Shmuel Golden Education Center's Symposium on (Congregation Ahavath Torah: Past President, Rabbinical Council of Major Non-profit Organizations America), and Tova Birnbaum (Central Slicha, World Zionist that "Make a Difference in Israel." Organization) on the topic "Making Zionism Relevant Today." Ruth (a member of Hadassah's Lauren Katz, Hadassah's Policy Associate, spoke about her National Speakers Bureau) gave a participation in the Voices Fellowship, an educational and leadership wonderful presentation on training program for Jewish young adults reshaping the Hadassah's extraordinary work in conversation about Israel and social justice in the American Jewish Israel. The other organizations that c! ommunity. presented were Zaka International, Emunah of America, JNF (Jewish National Fund,) and AMIT. The event was very well attended and following the presentation, attendees enjoyed refreshments and mingled at the tables to ask questions and take home literature.

Todah Rabah to Stephen Epstein ! for inviting us to participate, and to ! our Hadassah Brooklyn Region Marcie with panelists panelists Professor Gil Troy, Rabbi Shmuel Golden and Tova Birnbaum at the American Zionist Movement Conference. members who attended to show their support! HADASSAH ASSOCIATES MOVIE NIGHT OUT

Pictured left to right: Janet Young, Steven Epstein, Ruth Gursky

Pictured above: Main: Ronnie Feldman, Brooklyn Hadassah Associates Chair; Insert (l to r): Ronnie Feldman, Burton Krull and Jay Young

Brooklyn Region News 19 Winter 2014 Hadassah Brooklyn Region NON-PROFIT ORG. 1625 Ocean Avenue U.S. POSTAGE Brooklyn, NY 11230 PAID 718.382.6454 [email protected] Brooklyn, NY www.brooklyn.hadassah.org Permit #4194

Region Upcoming Events

Monday, February 17 Presidents’ Day – Office Closed J o

Thursday, February 27 1pm – G-d, Israel & The Heart Program @ HBR Office i n

Saturday, March 15 Shabbat Zachor /Shabbat Hadassah @ EMJC u s

Monday, March 17 12pm - Region Purim Party @ EMJC a n

Sunday, March 23 9am – 1:30pm - Women’s Health Event @ EMJC d

Monday, April 7 1pm – Go Forth & Study @ HBR Office n j o

Tues., Apr. 15–Tues., Apr. 22 Passover – Office Closed y

Sunday, May 4 11am - Brooklyn Region’s “Special Chai” Society Reception o u

Sunday, June 1st 11am – Celebrate Israel Day Parade w/Young Judaea r s e

Wed., June 4 & Thurs., June 5 Shavuot – Office Closed l f Monday, June 9 1pm – Go Forth & Study @ HBR Office Monday, June 30 12pm - Brooklyn Region Spring Hadar Luncheon Concert @ EMJC Date TBA – Associate Event with Ron Schweiger about “The Boroughs of New York”

CHARITABLE SOLICITATION DISCLOSURE STATEMENT HADASSAH, THE WOMEN'S ZIONIST ORGANIZATION OF AMERICA, INC. 50 West 58th Street, New York, NY 10019 - Telephone: (212) 355-7900 A copy of Hadassah's latest Financial Report is available by writing to the Hadassah Finance Dept., 50 W. 58th Street, New York, NY 10019. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL OR RECOMMENDATION BY ANY STATE/COUNTY.