The New Jewish Voice

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A Gift For You, Courtesy of... May 2021 | Iyar - Sivan 5781 United Jewish Federation Volume 22, Number 18 The New Jewish Voice A PUBLICATION OF UNITED JEWISH FEDERATION Finding Ways to Engage Embrace Spring and Congregants Despite Social Community at UJF Distancing Women’s Dinner BY LARRY STOOGENKE (TEMPLE pursue their passions and find new friends BY NANCY SCHULMAN SINAI) AND JAMI FENER (TEMPLE within the synagogue community. Run by United Jewish Federation’s Wom- BETH EL) members themselves, these small groups en’s Philanthropy is bringing communi- As both Temple Beth El and Temple Si- have proven to be a valuable way to connect ty women together outside this year for nai endured the pandemic over the past even during the pandemic. its annual Spring Dinner being held at the year, the need to find creative ways to en- Temple Sinai has 16 active Sinai Circles, Stamford Museum and Nature Center. gage members became even more compel- with 150 members currently enrolled. The The event will take place on Wednes- ling. Temple Sinai launched Sinai Circles variety of Circles is vast ranging from ac- day, June 2nd (rain date June 3rd) at 6:30 last March; after hearing about this initia- tivity-based (such as Pilates), to social (in- pm and will feature guest speaker Jean tive and collaborating with them, TBE fol- cluding reliving Grateful Dead concerts), Chatzky speaking on “The Judgement lowed suit to form their own version, called to contemplative (meditation) and topical Free Guide to Creating the Joyful. Less Jean Chatsky, Arielle Eden, TBE Clubs. Both programs aim to connect (race relations). Carly Dorman who leads Stressed Purposeful (and Yes Rich) Life guest speaker guest performer small groups of congregants in meaningful you Deserve”. In addition, Arielle Eden, activities and provide a path for members to CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 a Stamford native (aka Arielle Freedberg CONTINUED ON PAGE 6 The Importance of Family Stories BY SHARON FRANKLIN Family Stories.” The program is open to the family relationships and storytelling. Dur- how you tell family stories and the mix of United Jewish Federation’s Grandpar- entire community and will provide helpful ing the program, he will talk about the im- stories you tell can create an emotional re- ents Group will hold a virtual program insights for parents (and grandparents) with portance of passing on family stories to kids serve for younger generations as they face on Tuesday, June 29th at 7pm featuring children both young and old. and grandkids, touching on his research their own challenges, while also helping to Marshall P. Duke who will speak on “The Duke is a professor at Emory Universi- through Emory University on the Holocaust Importance and Impact of Passing on ty who is interested in personality theory, and September 11th. Duke has found that CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

6 JCRC 14 15 17 Life 20-22 PJ 23 Voices Bits Shavuot NEWS & Pieces & Legacy Library and Views PJ Library and Bi-Cultural Field Day Fun

United Jewish Federation’s PJ Library and Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy (BCHA) joined forces for a Field Day Fun program on a blustery day in March. Kids had a chance to run, play games, exercise, and see friends on the field at BCHA. For some kids and parents, this was the first in-person social program they had attended since last March.

Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy’s Athletic Director, Coach Stefan Driehuizen, facilitated the field day games. Field Day participants receive BCHA frisbees. 2 The New Jewish Voice

From UJF’s Chief Executive Officer Acts of Kindness As we finish a year of isolation, both • Call a neighbor and • Email or write to a for- United Jewish Federation, a structured physical and emotional, kindness and the check in. mer teacher who made a dif- organized Jewish communal convener, has need for “Ahavat Israel”, love of a people, • Donate old towels or ference in your life. not only allowed for these impactful pro- has never been more important. Love peo- blankets to a shelter. • Take a friend’s baby for grams to continue but is providing a safety ple, not things… With so many we love and • Surprise a neighbor a walk. net for our community in its deepest time of long to be with kept at a distance, COV- with freshly baked cookies Meaningful gestures have need. Over $500,000 was collected and dis- ID-19, has taught us all the profound im- or treats! meant a great deal throughout tributed to local agencies and synagogues pact people and love have on us each and • Leave unused cou- this past year and will contin- to help with COVID-19 relief, scholarships every day. pons next to correspond- ue to impact people's lives. and much more. And throughout this pan- Both random and intentional acts of ing products in the grocery United Jewish Federa- demic, UJF continued to lead the commu- kindness have never been needed more, store. tion’s 3SQUARE, Dignity nity’s Life & Legacy program, which, as it with so many of us feeling isolated, lonely, • Send a gratitude email Grows and Reading Part- nears the end of year one, has secured over and depressed. to a coworker who de- ners programs have con- seven million dollars to date to impact the From the Random Acts of Kindness serves more recognition. Diane Sloyer, UJF CEO tinued to make a meaning- long-term health of our Jewish community. Foundation website, here are some of my • Give away stuff for ful difference throughout Although we may not know what our favorites that are easy to do while staying free on online marketplaces. our community. Federation was here yes- “tomorrows” look like, with your contin- socially distant: • Find opportunities to give compli- terday, is here today…and we pray we can ued help and financial support of UJF, • Send a positive text message to five dif- ments. It costs nothing, takes no time, and be here for the many tomorrows, no matter we will stand strong and be there for our ferent people right now. could make someone’s day. what the future brings - good or bad! community. When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Giving BY AMY HIRSHBERG LEDERMAN and sorrow as well as oc- - to want to give from the marching orders from the mitzvah of Amy will be the keynote speaker at UJF’s casions of joy. Yet for my heart. And it's important Tzedakah, or righteousness in Hebrew. Year One Life & Legacy Celebration to be 95 year old mother, COV- to figure out what means Tzedakah is the hand-maiden to Tik- held on June 23rd. (see ad on page 10) ID-19 did less to restrict the most to you and why.” kun Olam, the Jewish obligation to re- For more than a year, COVID-19 has her world than the years I was stunned. Mom’s pair the world. Together, they form a call limited our life choices; it has inhibit- and infirmities that have wisdom perfectly artic- to action, to consciously distribute a part ed and in most cases, prevented, our pri- accompanied nine decades ulated the foundation of of what we have to care for others. We or, uninhibited ability to spend time with of living. philanthropic giving: it’s don’t give because it feels good (although family, friends and colleagues. We shel- Most of Mom’s friends all about identifying your it does feel good.) We give because we’re tered in place while yearning for the sim- are gone and my fa- values and priorities and Jews. plest of activities: shopping, going to work, ther, just three months wanting to make the world We give in concentric circles: start- going out to dinner or the movies. We shy of his 100th birthday, a better place. ing with our own family and communi- struggled to “feel” close in times of grief died two years ago. But In my previous work ty and then expanding out into the larger while Mom is wheelchair Amy Hirshberg Lederman as a Legacy Consultant world, which includes Jews and non-Jews CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES bound, her mind is im- for the Jewish Communi- alike. The Talmud specifically recognizes pressively agile. And while her physical ty Foundation of Southern Arizona, I saw that any needy person who lives peaceful- April 23 ...... 7:25 pm mobility wanes, her capacity to offer guid- first-hand the impact of thoughtful philan- ly with us is worthy of charity. April 30 ...... 7:32 pm ance, inspiration and wisdom increases. thropic giving. I watched our communi- During our lives we will undoubt- One such moment came when Mom ty benefit from the endowments and gifts edly have times when our ability to give May 7...... 7:40 pm confided that she wanted to make a differ- of people who cared about issues ranging may be restricted. And yet it is times like May 14...... 7:47 pm ence in her final years. We were sitting on from Jewish education and Israel to social now - when COVID-19 has ravaged our May 21...... 7:53 pm the couch, her fragile body leaning into justice, climate change and the arts. economy and caused a global health cri- mine when she told me: “I want to give Giving requires some soul search- sis unparalleled to anything we have ever May 28...... 7:59 pm more, to make a difference in this trou- ing: How much should we give? How do known, that Jewish tradition requires us June 4...... 8:05 pm bled world – for my children, grandchil- we prioritize our donations? Should we to step up and make a difference. dren and great grandchildren. There are support Jewish organizations over secu- No matter how much or how little we June 11...... 8:09 pm so many people who desperately need our lar ones? Should we give now or wait un- have, the beauty of tzedakah is that it is an June 18...... 8:11 pm help to maintain dignity and a secure life.” til we die? ‘equal opportunity mitzvah.’ As our sag- June 25...... 8:13 pm She paused for a moment and then The Jewish tradition doesn’t speak es taught: “To the one who is eager to give, added: “It’s part of being human, you know in terms of charity. Rather, we take our God provides the means.” This Newspaper, the New Jewish Voice is brought to the community by

r eanin andr Fat wor i eier or one n reises It is free for all who wish to receive it and paid for Frank Policastro/Owner (203) 323-0507 by dollars raised through UJF’s Annual Campaign. 48 Crescent Street [email protected] Stamford, CT 06905 www.crescentcleaners.com Donations can be made at www.ujf.org

MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 COMMUNITY NEWS The New Jewish Voice 3 JCC Gala Celebrates Reopening and Honors Anne Liss Johnson (Courtesy of JCC) At its spring gala, The JCC. Soon after, she spearheaded the The gala will be held outdoors at The Coming Home, scheduled on Wednesday, build of The JCC’s boundless playground. Stamford JCC at 6:30 p.m. and will feature June 9, The Stamford Jewish Communi- In 2008, Anne became the Director of The cocktails and dinner. Dietary laws will be ty Center will celebrate its grand reopen- JCC Sara Walker Nursery School. During observed. ing to the community, welcoming The JCC her time at the school, many new programs Jenny Fishman and Jeannie Kriftcher Sara Walker Nursery School to its New- have been implemented including the Jew- will serve as event chairpersons. field campus and awarding The Arlene & ish values curriculum, expanded parent Visit www.stamfordjcc.org for tick- Irwin Ettinger Legacy Award to Anne Liss and family programs, the creation of a full et and journal reservations. For more in- Johnson. day Pre-K program, and much more. In formation, contact Shannon Jacobs at The gala will be a celebration of the full 2019, Anne was named Associate Execu- 203.487.0965 or [email protected]. reopening of the Newfield Avenue campus tive Director of The JCC, overseeing The and its programs after a year of interrup- Center for Early Learning. Anne was the DEADLINE FOR ARTICLES tions because of the pandemic. At the gala, catalyst for the establishment of The Stam- guests will have the opportunity to tour the ford JCC Preschool at Greenwich Reform The deadlines for the next issues of JCC’s brand new multipurpose classroom Synagogue, now in its second year. Most The New Jewish Voice are: wing, which will allow for expanded com- Anne Liss Johnson, recipient of The recently, Anne served on the committee to Summer Edition: May 3rd Arlene & Irwin Ettinger Legacy Award. munity programs and The JCC Sara Walker bring The JCC Sara Walker Nursery School th Nursery School to be brought to The Stam- to the JCC campus, integral to making sure Rosh Hashana: July 30 ford JCC. The new wing will also be home the SummerPlace Director and the Tradi- that The JCC continues to meet every child to a new infant childcare room and will tions on Wheels Director. Anne was instru- and family where they are while having a Send New Jewish Voice article serve the KidsPlace, Inclusion, Day Camps mental in starting the "What A Production" successful experience. submissions to Sandy Golove at @The J, and general membership commu- summer theater program and the CIT pro- In addition to her work at The JCC, [email protected] marked nities throughout the year. gram, and developed new camp electives. Anne is an active volunteer in the Stamford Anne Liss Johnson, Associate Executive Anne then transitioned to the role of community. She has held leadership roles “Stamford Voice” in the subject line. Director, will be presented with The Arlene Managing Director of Early Childhood, at several schools, served on the board and Expect an acknowledgement; & Irwin Ettinger Legacy Award for her ser- overseeing all birth to 5 year old pro- various committees at Temple Sinai, and please re-send if you do not vice to The JCC and the broader commu- grams. At that time, Anne was a key per- she currently serves on the Bennett Cancer receive one. nity. Anne first came to The JCC in 1997 as son in bringing the JumpStart program to Center’s Paint the Town Pink Committee. Cantor’s Concert at TBE to Feature Nefesh Mountain (Courtesy of TBE) Temple Beth El’s 2021 Norma and Milton Mann Memorial Can- tor’s Concert will be held on Sunday, May 2 at 7:00pm. This year’s concert, on Zoom, entitled “Telling Our Stories through Song'' will feature Nefesh Mountain and TBE Cantorial Soloist Katie Kaplan. Tem- ple Beth El is also pleased to honor Alberto Eyzaguirre, maintenance supervisor at TBE, for his 47 years of service. Nefesh Mountain is the place where Bluegrass, Old-Time, and American Roots music meet with Jewish heritage and tra- *7TFEBUJPO dition. Creators, band leaders and hus- GPSIJHIGFBS band and wife team Doni Zasloff and Eric Lindberg are the heart of this eclectic offer- TQFDJBMOFFET ing, pioneering a new world of American DIJMESFO culture which seamlessly blends their deep love for American and Western musical forms with their own cultural backgrounds as Jewish Americans. Nefesh Mountain has been featured in Rolling Stone, BBC World News, Billboard, The Bluegrass Situation, No Depression, Alberto Eyzaguirre (CREDIT: AVIVA MALLER) Bluegrass Today, Bluegrass Unlimited, The Times of Israel, Jerusalem Post, and Tablet z’l, Frank Rosner, z’l Rabbi Alex Goldman Magazine among others. z’l and Hazzan Sidney Rabinowitz inter- Honoree Alberto Eyzaguirre was born viewed him. He was asked to try the job in Chile on December 19, 1949. Because for two weeks and he has stayed on for 47 his siblings were part of the Student Ex- years. change Program, he heard wonderful Alberto and his wife Patty have been things about the United States. He decid- married since 1978. Their son Daniel is 27 ed to find out about it for himself and came years old. They celebrated Daniel’s birth at to this country on November 22, 1970. He TBE. never looked back. The concert is sponsored by the Mann Alberto came to Beth El because he Family in loving memory of Norma and heard there was a need for someone to help Milton Mann, z’l. at the new building on Roxbury Road. Al Golin, z’l, Herb Kahan, z’l, David Lapine, CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 4 The New Jewish Voice UPCOMING EVENTS Honest Tea Founder to Speak at UJF’s Rothschild Event BY SHARON FRANKLIN and effective negotiators emphasize the poten- on the upcoming Rothschild program: “We On Wednesday evening, May 5th, in business and everyday tial for cooperating as are fortunate to host such an accomplished Barry Nalebuff will speak at United Jewish life. Professor Nalebuff well as competing. Why teacher and businessman. As a professional Federation’s Rothschild virtual program will also touch on his ex- Not? provides a frame- who uses negotiation skills every day, I look entitled “Split the Pie: A Radical New Way periences starting the work for problem solv- forward to hearing new ideas and strategies, To Negotiate (Based On The Talmud).“ Honest Tea Company and ing and ingenuity. Life- especially those that touch on Jewish ideas.” Nalebuff is the Milton Steinbach Profes- other product ventures. cycle Investing introduc- Other committee members include Andrew sor at the Yale School of Management, au- Professor Nalebuff is es a new strategy for re- Bein, Judith Bernstein, Shira Gilboa, Caryn thor, and co-founder of Honest Tea, Kom- an expert on game theo- tirement investing. Mis- Halbrecht, Liat Kochavi, Claudia Kraut, Gail brewcha, and Maker Oats. Dr. Ilan Fogel ry and has written extension in a Bottle provides Sheffler, Simeon Wolhberg, and Ari Yasgar. will moderate the program. Nalebuff will sively on its application lessons for entrepreneurs The Rothschild Society is a UJF busi- talk about the art of negotiating fairly to business strategy. He and tells the story of Hon- ness affinity group focused on education- and effectively in business and in every- is the author/co-author est Tea in graphic format. al, leadership, and networking opportuni- day life. of seven books: Thinking Barry Nalebuff, a Yale business “Split the Pie” is his forth- ties with the objective of benefiting both the “Split the pie” is a principled approach to Strategically and The Art professor and founder of Honest coming book on negoti- local and global Jewish communities. The negotiation and will change the way one un- of Strategy are two popu- Tea. ation, and the subject of program is open to all in the community, derstands power and fairness in negotiation. lar books on game theory the Rothschild program. and attendance is free. Register by going to This theory will help professionals (as well as with over 400,000 copies in print. Co-ope- Program committee member Lisa www.ujf.org/pie or contact Sharon Franklin the general public) become more principled tition looks beyond zero-sum games to Linzer, of L & S Reality, gave her thoughts at [email protected]/203-321-1373 ext. 109. The New Jewish Voice Spring Youth Programs at Chabad of Stamford “The New Jewish Voice” (USPS #184) is published by the United Jewish Federation Inc. (Courtesy of Chabad of Stamford) April 21st from 4:00-6:00 p.m. and run issues facing young Jewish women today 1035 Newfield Ave., Stamford, CT 06905-2521. Chabad of Stamford is excited to offer the each Wednesday for six weeks. The CKC in a fun, informative and interactive way. www.ujf.org for updates and donations community several exciting youth oppor- Open House and end-of-year event will be The girls have an opportunity to meet other tunities for the spring semester. on Wednesday, May 26th. Jewish girls the same age and through art, David Gordon...... President For kids age birth to three, “Tiny Treas- Lastly, Chabad’s Bat Mitzvah Club will community outreach and thought-provok- Diane Sloyer...... CEO ures Mommy and Me” classes are back each meet twice this spring on Sunday, April ing discussions, they can learn, discuss and Advisory Committee Thursday morning at 9:30am at Chabad 25th at 5:00 p.m. and on Sunday, May 23rd debate, all while having loads of fun! Meryl Gordon...... Chair of Stamford on 770 High Ridge Road. All at 5:00 p.m. Chabad’s Bat Mitzvah Club is To sign up for any of these programs Allison Greenbaum, Meryl Japha, Nancy Schulman, classes are held outdoors with social dis- designed to teach girls about many relevant please email [email protected] Ellen Weber tancing, with music, singing, snacks, story

Jewish Link Media Group and challah baking. The Jewish Link Media Group edits and publishes Thanks to a generous grant from the The New Jewish Voice. United Jewish Federation of Stamford, Achieve Happiness With JFS Moshe Kinderlehrer...... Publisher New Canaan and Darien, Chabad of Stam- Adam Negnewitzky...... Design & Layout ford is thrilled to offer children from pre-K Gila Negnewitzky...... Bookkeeper through 7th grade an opportunity to ex- Lecture Series Risa Lefkowitz...... Advertising Representative perience a fun after-school program free (Courtesy of Schoke JFS) Join Dr. Tal Opinions of charge for the rest of the school year. Ben-Shahar on Tuesday, April 27, 2021 at The views expressed in editorials and opinion Chabad Kid’s Club (CKC) will start on 7:30 pm to complete the series of talks in the pieces are those of each author and not necessarily Saul Cohen-Schoke JFS Lecture Series. Rec- the views of the United Jewish Federation. ognizing the challenges of the difficult times Letters experienced by all due to the pandemic, The New Jewish Voice welcomes letters on subjects Grow You! the 9th Annual Saul Cohen-Schoke Jewish of interest to the Jewish community. All letters must Family Service Lecture is a series of three be signed and include a phone number. The editor may withhold the name upon request. online presentations by prominent authors Financial focusing on how to “recover, recharge and Kashruth rejoice” while adapting to the new normal We are not responsible for the Kashruth of any Education from created by COVID-19. advertiser’s product or establishment. As the keynote speaker in the three- part series, Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, co-found- Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar HOW TO REACH THE EDITOR: Schoke JFS Mail: Sandy Golove er of the Happiness Studies Academy, 1035 Newfield Ave. - Suite 200 (Courtesy of Schoke JFS) Save the date speaks about Happiness: How to live an County and the United Jewish Federa- Stamford, CT 06905-2521 for a Grow You! Financial Education Work- inspired life. After graduating from Har- tion of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and E-mail: [email protected] shop from Schoke Jewish Family Service. vard with a BA in Philosophy and Psychol- Darien and in partnership with the Jewish Phone: (203) 912-9945 Susan Greenwald, a current board member ogy and a PhD in Organizational Behavior, Book Council. The committee to organ- Send article submissions via e-mail to of Schoke JFS and a Licensed Clinical So- Ben Shahar taught two of the most popular ize the Saul Cohen-Schoke JFS Lecture is Sandy Golove at [email protected] cial Worker/Nursing Home Administrator, courses in Harvard’s history: Positive Psy- chaired by Michael and Betsy Stone. marked “Stamford Voice” in the subject will discuss information on enrolling in the chology and The Psychology of Leadership Dr. Ben-Shahar talks about how to live line. Expect an acknowledgement; please re-send if you do not receive one. Medicaid program. The presentation will and taught Happiness Studies at Columbia an inspired life and achieve happiness and take place on Thursday, April 29th at 12 University. He is an international, best-sell- rejoice in life when the circumstances are HOW TO REACH THE p.m. on Zoom. This program is funded in ing author whose books have been translat- challenging. His presentation will leave ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: part by a Southwest CT Agency on Aging ed into more than 25 languages. viewers with a positive attitude. DIANE SLOYER (SWCAA) grant. The lecture is a gift, offered at no cost For details about this program, please Phone: (203) 321-1373, ext. 105 E-mail: [email protected] Please bring all your questions to the to the community, through the generosity contact Leah Schechter at 203-921-4161 or session. To register to attend, please con- of Mimi Cohen and Saul Cohen, of bless- email at [email protected]. Please vis- SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION: tact Rebekah Kanefsky, Schoke JFS Case ed memory. The series this year is co-spon- it www.ctjfs.org/saul-cohen-jfs-lecture for Phone: (203) 321-1373 Management Director, at 203-921-4161 or sored by UJA/JCC Greenwich, Federation more details about this year’s unique lecture E-mail: [email protected] email at [email protected] for Jewish Philanthropy of Upper Fairfield series format. MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 UPCOMING EVENTS The New Jewish Voice 5 Celebrating Lag B’Omer with Chabad Stamford JCC’s JTalks with of Stamford Fran Pastore (Courtesy of Chabad of Stamford) Chabad On the evening of Lag B'Omer there will is excited to welcome the Stamford communi- be a special women's celebration hosted by ty to three special events to celebrate the holi- Chabad's Jewish Women Connected. JWC day of Lag B’Omer. will host a "by the fire" Lag B'Omer celebra- On Thursday April 29th at 4:30pm the an- tion where they will enjoy a bonfire, drum cir- nual Family BBQ and Trike-a-thon will be cle and roasted and toasted snacks. The event held. Please join Chabad for this special pre– is on Thursday, April 29th at 7:45PM at a pri- Lag B’Omer event which promises fun, mu- vate home in Stamford. sic, games and food. Enjoy a great time for the The celebrations continue on Friday, April entire family with hot dogs, hamburgers plus 30th at 5:30pm outdoors at 770 High Ridge marshmallows roasted in the bonfire. Kids un- Road where Chabad again invites the commu- der 5 are encouraged to bring their trikes for a nity to join them for a pre-Shabbat celebration. Trike-a-thon in the back parking lot at Chabad For more information on all these events of Stamford on 770 High Ridge Road. This please email [email protected] event is free with sponsorship opportunities. or call (203) 324-2223 x 103

Fran Pastore Myrna Sessa Schoke JFS Begins Citizenship Course in May (CREDIT: WWW.CTWBDC.ORG) (CREDIT: WWW.HRINNOVATIONS.COM) (Courtesy of Schoke JFS) Schoke JFS will be Jewish Federation Association of Connecticut offering a four-week course, beginning in May (JFACT). JFACT is funded by and serves as a (Courtesy of JCC) The JCC invites Council, as an independent source of 2021, to non-citizens to help to prepare them legislative representative for the seven Con- the community to the upcoming JCC counsel to the President, Congress, and for the United States Citizenship examina- necticut Jewish Federations, including United JTalk featuring Fran Pastore, Founder the U.S. Small Business Administra- tion. Some of the topics will include but not be Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New and CEO of the Women’s Business De- tion. Most recently, Fran was appointed limited to United States history, civics, United Canaan and Darien. velopment Council. Myrna Sessa will as Vice Chair of the State of Connecti- States government systems and Constitution- If you have any questions or know some- facilitate the conversation on Tuesday, cut Paid Family and Medical Leave In- al information. one who might be interested in attending the May 4, at 7:30 pm on Zoom. surance Authority Board of Directors. This program is funded by a grant from course, please contact Rebekah Kanefsky, Fran Pastore is a pioneer in the Globally, in partnership with the a Citizenship contract from the Department Schoke JFS Case Management Director, at women's entrepreneurial ecosystem. US Department of State, The Business of Social Security, in partnership with the 203-921-4161 or email at [email protected]. As the Founder and CEO of the Wom- Council for Peace and the University of en's Business Development Council, Connecticut, Fran’s influence has been the leading organization champion- exemplified through her direct work ing female entrepreneurship, Fran is a with women entrepreneurs in Ethiopia, Agudath Sholom Dinner Honors globally recognized expert on the issue Rwanda, Costa Rica and Turkey. of women's economic equality. Myrna Sessa is the Founder and COVID First Responders Domestically, Fran has been in- Principal of HR Innovations based in Congregation Agudath Sholom's annu- physicians Dr. Jason Fischel and Dr. Sam strumental in the passage of legisla- Stamford. al festive dinner will honor seven congregants Maryles, anesthesiologist Dr. Eric Jankelovits, tion benefiting women entrepreneurs, For more information or to reg- who are COVID first responders, including pediatric hospitalist Dr. Rachel (Biller) Redlich, providing numerous testimonies be- ister, visit stamfordjcc.org or con- five frontline physicians and two firefighters. pulmonologist Dr. Steven Thau, and volunteer fore the U.S. Congress. She has served tact Connie Cirillo Freeman at The event will be held on Sunday, May 23rd, at firefighters Michal Cohen and Max Maron. on the National Women’s Business [email protected]. 5:00pm, both in-person under the synagogue's For further information, please see outdoor tent and also virtually for those at home. www.cas-stamford.org, or call the Congrega- The honorees are emergency medicine tion Agudath Sholom office, 203-358-2200. Honor Our Veterans for Memorial Day BY MARCIE SCHOENFELD Museum. A question and answer session May brings spring flowers, Moth- will follow the virtual tour. er’s Day and Memorial Day. Please According to LTC (Retired) David join the Jewish Historical Society of Kaplan, “The legacies of the men and Fairfield County virtually on Sunday, women who served in the American May 2nd at 10 a.m. to honor our Jew- Military Services are an important chap- ish Veterans. ter in American Jewish History from the The program will feature a virtual time of America’s founding to the pres- tour of the National Museum of Amer- ent. Their stories deserve to be told and ican Jewish Military History in Wash- h e ard .” ington, DC, which commemorates and The program is co-sponsored by Fred preserves the services and sacrifices of Robbins Post 142 (JWV, Stamford), Steve Jewish Americans in the Armed Forc- Fischer, Commander. es. The tour will be introduced by Lt This program is free and open to the Col (Retired) Sheldon A. Goldberg, public. Veterans and their families will Ph.D. Dr. Goldberg is the Command- especially enjoy this presentation. Look er of the Greenberg-Lerner Post 692 for the Zoom link on the JHSFC website Top (l-r) Dr. Sam Maryles, Dr. Jason Fischel, Max Maron, Dr. Steven Thau (Jewish War Veterans) in Silver Spring, (http://jhsfc-ct.org). For more informa- Bottom (l-r) Michal Cohen, Dr. Rachel (Biller) Redlich, Dr. Eric Jankelovits MD. He is a docent at the National tion, call (203) 359-2196. MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 6 The New Jewish Voice JCRC NEWS Jewish Community Relations Council Update BY SHARON LEWIS, Fairfield County. email for further details on this JCRC DIRECTOR Josh and Peter are exciting event and contact Sharon The Jewish Com- working towards a Lewis ([email protected]) if you want munity Relations smooth transition to be involved. Council (JCRC) is so that the JCRC JCRC will also work with the the public affairs arm can continue its Interfaith Council and Mayor’s of the United Jewish mission as the pub- Multicultural Committee to es- Federation. Its mis- lic affairs arm of tablish a community reading pro- sion is to represent the United Jewish Fed- gram called Building Bridges interests of the Stam- eration and to build with Books. In partnership with ford, New Canaan bridges within and the Ferguson Library, a commit- and Darien Jewish Sharon Lewis between commu- tee will identify a book for every- communities to pub- nities. Welcome one in the city to read. We will lic officials and agencies, the me- Josh and we look forward to your then join for an event in January dia and the larger community. We leadership. to discuss the book. If successful, convene and mobilize the Jewish we hope this can become an an- community, build relationships UPCOMING EVENTS nual event. with and beyond the Jewish com- In furtherance of the JCRC Another area of JCRC work is munity, and engage in non-parti- goals this year, the committee will educating our community on di- san work focusing on education, work with the Interfaith Coun- verse matters and this spring we United Jewish Federation and UJA-JCC joined together for a advocacy, social justice, commu- cil of South Western CT(IFC) and will host two panel discussions to communal Yom HaShoah program with guest speaker Peter nal security, support for Israel and Mayor’s Multicultural Committee increase our social media savvy Somogyi, who was interviewed by journalist Shushannah Walshe. combating antisemitism. (MMC) to celebrate the diversity and security. During the pandem- Joshua Esses has become the of our city during a Walk for Uni- ic, social media platforms were ourselves, our children and our interview of survivor Peter new chair of the Jewish Commu- ty in our Community on August even more integral as a means parents on social media and how Somogyi by Shushannah Walshe. nity Relations Council (JCRC) 29th. The walk, chaired by Linda of staying connected to others. to deal with hate speech. Although participants were re- Committee. Josh, a Stamford na- Spilka, is an opportunity for every- However, there is also a dark side mote, the intensity of the strength tive, is an attorney at Proskauer one in our community to join in a to social media in that these plat- YOM HASHOAH in our community was palpable. Rose and recently ran for Con- non-political, non-denomination- forms can be breeding grounds United Jewish Federation of Thank you to all who worked to necticut State Senate, losing a al event to promote unity, friend- for identity theft, scams and hate Stamford, New Canaan & Darien, make the evening so meaningful. close race to Patricia Billie Miller. ship and peace. Participants are in- speech. Watch your emails for in- JCRC and UJA/JCC Greenwich The JCRC Committee meets Josh succeeds long-time JCRC vited to walk together (location to formation about the two virtual worked together on a community every other month and welcomes chair Peter Lilienthal who has re- be determined) and then to gath- panel discussions that JCRC will virtual Yom HaShoah Commem- your involvement. If you would cently become the President of er for a music and food festival host on May 3rd and 11th (see ad oration on April 8th. The evening like to learn more, please contact the Jewish Historical Society of near the walk. Please watch your on page 7). Learn how to protect featured a moving and poignant Sharon Lewis ([email protected]).

Finding Ways to Engage Congregants Despite Social Distancing Embrace Spring and Community at UJF Women’s Dinner

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 individual areas in which they spe- CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 "I am so excited to be co-chairing the Wom- cialize. The Club also plans to organ- en's Spring Dinner with Nancy Schulman and the Pilates Circle, said “This has been ize lectures and speakers for the con- Prager), will perform live during the dinner Jill Kaplan,” says Robin Fischel, event co-chair. an incredible opportunity for me to gregation. The first meeting was held portion of the event. “After this past year, I'm thrilled to be a part not only share my expertise but to fos- in January and the featured topic was The evening is chaired by Robin Fischel, Jill of this OUTDOOR and in-person evening ter an environment where our Circle infertility in the Bible. When asked Kaplan and Nancy Schulman, and the fundrais- that is sure to be social, yet socially distant, can really get to know each other inti- about how she came up with this idea, ing auction is chaired by Allison Greenbaum and inspiring. The location is SUPERB. Some mately. We all look forward to sharing Ginsburg said, “I had met so many and Toby Lazarus of Stamford, and Pam Horne wine tasting, inspirational speaker, and good that sacred time together, especially great congregants and was astound- of New Canaan. For those interested, Zoom friends, finally seen not through a computer during the pandemic, and I have seen ed how little I knew about their lives participation is welcome. screen. What can be better?" the Circle participants grow together outside TBE… the response has been Jean Chatzky is the CEO of HerMoney.com Co-chair Jill Kaplan agrees, “This year’s in very personal ways.” The diversity enthusiastic, and we are very excited and host of the podcast HerMoney With Jean Women’s Philanthropy Spring Dinner is not to of the Circles is designed to mirror the about our potential.” Chatzky. The financial editor of NBC Today be missed. This is a great way to kick off Spring varied interests of the congregation Sinai Circles and TBE Clubs have for 25 years and the Financial Ambassador for and a return to a somewhat “normal” exist- and they are all designed to cultivate provided a safe space to nurture au- AARP, she appears frequently on CNN, MSN- ence. I know I speak for many of us when I say meaningful connections. If a con- thentic connections and build com- BC and was a recurring guest on The Oprah that I am really looking forward to being out, gregant does not find a fit, they have munity during a particularly challeng- Winfrey Show. She is a New York Times and socializing in person and learning something the option of creating their own Cir- ing time. These groups not only deep- Wall Street Journal best-selling author. Her new from Jean Chatzky.” cle. Temple Sinai will be launching a en relationships within their small co- latest book is Women with Money: The Judg- Attendees are required to wear masks whole new set of Circles later this year. horts but will also allow those who ment-Free Guide to Creating the Joyful, Less and follow social distancing protocols, and TBE has had a successful launch participate to feel a greater sense of Stressed, Purposeful (and Yes, Rich) Life You are asked to self-monitor their health. The of Clubs including a hiking and walk- belonging and to find their place in Deserve. An in-demand motivational speak- Stamford Nature Center is located at 151 ing club, a group for musicians, a club the greater congregation. er and fierce advocate for financial literacy, Scofieldtown Road, Stamford. Tickets are for theatre and film lovers, and a sup- If you are interested in learn- in 2015, she partnered with the PwC Chari- $95 through May 21st, $125 after, and $360 port group for those dealing with grief ing more about the Circles and table Foundation and Time for Kids to launch for Event Sponsor. “Tricky Tray” raffle/auc- or loss. TBE STEMers, run by Fran Clubs you can reach out to Larry Your $, an in-school magazine that reaches 2 tion tickets are available now at $72 for 100 Ginsburg, meets monthly on Zoom. Stoogenke, Director of Congrega- million school children each month. More at tickets, $54 for 65 tickets and $36 for 36 tick- As a retired obstetrician-gynecolo- tional Engagement at Temple Sinai JeanChatzky.com and @JeanChatzky. ets. All ticket packages will be $10 more at the gist, Fran wanted to create a club for at [email protected] Guests will enjoy pre-packaged dinners along event. For more information and to purchase TBE members interested in the field or Jami Fener, Engagement Co- with live music, wine tasting, crafts and the Tricky tickets visit www.ujf.org/Spring21 or contact of science. The club discusses topics ordinator at Temple Beth El at Tray and Silent Auctions. The program featuring Diane Sloyer @[email protected]/ (203) of interest, and members present on [email protected]. Jean Chatzky will follow at 7:30 pm. 321-1373. Ext. 105. MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 COMMUNITY NEWS The New Jewish Voice 7

MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 8 The New Jewish Voice COMMUNITY NEWS Paul Berger Elected President of Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy BY JUDIE JACOBSON Stamford following his retirement in 2010 from Dr. Paul Berger of Stamford has been Bridgeport Hospital, where he served for 30 elected president of the Board of Directors of years as chief of oncology. The Bergers’ daugh- Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy of Connecti- ter and two sons are BCHA alumni, now mar- cut, announced outgoing BCHA Board Presi- ried and with families of their own. dent David Pitkoff. Dr. Berger has remained an active mem- In addition to Berger, other new member of the Board. So when the school asked bers of the BCHA Board include vice presi- him to again serve as president, he didn’t dents Dan Haron, Greg Teitel and Linda Russ, hesitate. Board treasurer David Zizmor and Board sec- “It’s an interesting time. … A difficult retary Meredith Cohen. time for day schools, specifically in terms of “Dr. Berger is one of the true gad- cost and trying to make day school education ols [greats] of our school having previous- available to as many people as possible with- ly served as president of the Board,” said Mr. out sacrificing the quality of the education,” Pitkoff in a letter to the BCHA community. he said. “His leadership and commitment to the mis- Still, he pointed out, “A lot of people from sion of our school is unparalleled.” New York are moving to Stamford [in search “BCHA is very fortunate to have a long of] a better quality of life. So, it's an opportu- history of brilliant, caring and dedicated nity to make things grow. Mayor David Martin (left) with Matt Greenberg, CEO of Schoke JFS, at Schoke JFS Board presidents who have contributed great He looks forward to working with Rabbi during Passover bag distribution. amounts of time and all of their talents to en- Bernstein, as well as Rachel Haron, current- sure that BCHA accomplishes its mission to ly principal of the BCHA Lower School, who provide an excellent Judaic and general stud- will take on the role of interim associate head Mayor Martin Visits Freedberg ies education to the children of our commu- of school. nity and the greater Fairfield County and “We were looking for the right person Family Kosher Food Pantry Westchester County region” said Rabbi Tzvi and we had a very talented person in Tzvi Bernstein, who currently serves as dean of Bernstein,” says Dr. Berger. “He’s exceptional- (Courtesy of Schoke JFS) A special of community organizations, assisted BCHA and will take over as interim head of ly smart. He gave up a successful law career to thank you to Stamford Mayor David in collecting, organizing and delivering school in June, when Jackie Herman retires. dedicate his time to Jewish education. We're Martin for stopping by the Freedberg Elayne and James Schoke Jewish Fam- “Dr. Berger has already distinguished lucky to have him —and Rachel [Haron] as Family Kosher Food Pantry to help out ily Service Passover Food bags filled himself as such an individual when he first well. She’s a wonderful person and so very during the Annual Passover Food Drive! with traditional Passover foods, to over served as president from 2006-2010, [when] I talented.” Schoke Jewish Family Service volun- 250 households in the Fairfield Coun- was privileged to serve under him as a mem- Dr. Berger calls his predecessor, David teers and staff, along with a large group ty area. ber of the Board of Directors. I am excited that Pitkoff, “The best president Bi-Cultural has I will once again have the opportunity to ben- ever had” and “a special, special man.” efit from his very capable leadership,” Rabbi Likewise, Mr. Pitkoff feels confident the Bernstein continued. school remains in good hands. A native of Providence, R.I., Paul Says Mr. Pitkoff: “We are thrilled to have Berger and his wife, Dina, moved to Westport such an amazing and talented group of leaders from New York in 1979. The couple moved to as we move towards an even brighter future.”

BCHA Upper School students spoke on Zoom with Hussein Aboubakr. Bi-Cultural Teens Meet with Political Asylum Seeker (Courtesy of BCHA) The Israel Advoca- Egyptian military for his writings and activ- cy Club of Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy Up- ities to combat antisemitism, he participat- per School (BCHA) recently partnered with ed in the Egyptian revolution and, in 2012, StandWithUs to share with students the sto- was forced to seek political asylum in the U.S. ry of Hussein Aboubakr, who was raised in a Today, he speaks on behalf of StandWithUs Children Enjoy Outdoor Model Seders traditional Arab Muslim home in Egypt and and writes about antisemitism and Israel. Af- (Courtesy of Chabad of Stamford) enjoying the Passover dishes and expe- was on a path to becoming a jihadist until his ter watching the documentary “Minority of Gan Yeladim held its model sed- riencing the customs and traditions of study of Jewish culture drastically changed One,” which tells Aboubakr’s story, students ers outdoors this year with each class the holiday. his views. After being imprisoned by the chatted with him on Zoom. MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 COMMUNITY NEWS The New Jewish Voice 9 Bi-Cultural 7th Graders Take Home Science Fair Awards

BY JUDIE JACOBSON Five Bi-Cultural students were among Even the pandemic couldn’t keep the finalists taking home awards. Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy 7th-grad- In addition to winning first place in the ers from participating in — and bringing PepsiCo/Pfizer Life Sciences Awards and home a treasure trove of top awards and the Alexion Biotechnology Award, Da- honors from — the 73rd Annual Connecti- vid Isaacs, Gabriel Haron and Liam Haron cut Science and Engineering Fair. took second place in the Future Sustaina- Held virtually, the 2021 fair showcased bility Awards and a certificate in the NASA hundreds of research projects produced by Earth System Science Award, for their pro- middle and high school students represent- ject “Studying Four Climate Change Fac- ing more than 100 schools from all across tors that Impact Plant Growth. They also the state. earned an invitation to compete in Broad- It wasn’t the first time Bi-Cultural stu- com MASTERS (Math, Applied Science, dents had an impressive showing at the Technology and Engineering Rising Stars), prestigious fair, but it was the first time stu- the nation’s premier science and engineer- dents presented their findings via Zoom to ing competition for middle school students. a panel of judges. Other BCHA award winners includ- To create their projects, students en- ed: Asher Marcus and Eddie Janush, who gaged in serious science exploration under earned a second place Alexion Biotech- the tutelage of Bi-Cultural’s science teacher nology Award for their project “The Ef- Christopher Graseck. Bi-Cultural Head of fect of Pollutants on Brine Shrimp [Arte- School Jackie Herman lauded students and mia Salina] Hatching;” and Hannah Co- their science teacher, who guided students hen and Rebecca Forti, who took home a through the arduous scientific process that Middle School finalist medallion in the Fu- Taking home awards and accolades from the 2021 CT Science and Engineering Science taught them how to conduct an experiment, ture Sustainability Awards for their project Fair were Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy 7th-graders (front row, l-r) Hannah Cohen, write up a report and present their findings. “Droughts Effect on Plants.” Rebecca Forti, Eddie Janush, Liam Haron, (back row, l-r) Gabriel Haron, Asher Marcus, ”We are so proud of our students who While the Fair presents an opportunity and David Isaacs. put so much time and energy into this ex- to showcase Connecticut’s youth and their perience. Chris Graseck did a superb job of talents for research and innovation, it also “Seeing an interest in science turn into The Connecticut Science & Engineer- guiding them every step of the way and en- nurtures within them a curiosity about the a desire to explore deeper the questions of ing Fair is an affiliate fair of the International suring that the students took away impor- world they live in, says Bi-Cultural Hebrew how our world works is an amazing trans- Science & Engineering Fair a Program of the tant lessons in the art of science,” said Mrs. Academy Middle School Principal David formation that this event brought to our Society for Science and is supported by the Herman. Giver. students,” said Mr. Giver. state’s academic and industrial organizations. Friendship Circle Teen Volunteers Learn about Rabbi’s Life Journey

Teen volunteers participate on Zoom with Rabbi Motti Flikshtein.

(Courtesy of Friendship Circle) Dur- as actually rapping with the teens. ing an evening in March, in a combined The evening was interactive and fo- program with the Friendship Circle of cused on engaging the teens. One of the Photo of young and old "Rapping Rabbi” Motti Flikshtein. Fairfield County and the Five Towns things teen Rachael Roizer enjoyed was Chapter, 60 Friendship Circle teen vol- “how Rabbi Flikshtein used music in his resonance about what’s most important This program was one in a series of teen unteers met on Zoom with Rabbi Motti storytelling of his life and it was so in- to each of us.” talks, where different speakers present Flikshtein, a rabbi who turned his life spiring.” The participants were able to Besides offering volunteer oppor- topics that are relevant and interesting around after having been a drug deal- ask questions and respond to the Rabbi’s tunities for the teens to interact with to the teens. er. While he left most of his old life be- story. A parent of a teen volunteer, and children and adults with special needs, For more information about becom- hind, he continued with his music and a volunteer himself, Brian Roitman said the Friendship Circle program also in- ing involved with the Friendship Cir- is still a rapper. The Rabbi spoke for two “Rabbi Flikshtein shared some real crys- cludes educational and social oppor- cle, please contact Malya Shmotkin at hours and shared his rap lyrics, as well tal clear moments of clarity, truth and tunities for the volunteers themselves. [email protected] MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 10 The New Jewish Voice COMMUNITY NEWS In the News Mayor Martin Proclaims Education and (Courtesy of Chabad of Stamford) Morah Leah Shemtov appeared with Sharing Day Tina Redwine on News 12 Connecticut to demonstrate some delicious dishes (Courtesy of Chabad of Stamford) To for Pesach and year-round. Find them emphasize the vital role of education in soon the News 12 Website under Chef's ciety, the United States annually marks "Ed- Quick Tips, Chabad of Stamford. ucation and Sharing Day U.S.A." on the an- niversary of the birth of the Lubavitch- er Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem Mendel Schneerson, of righteous memory, who dedicated his life to the cause of education. Established in 1978 by a joint Con- gressional resolution, Education and Shar- ing Day U.S.A. focuses on the very foundation of meaningful education: instructing our youth in the ways of morality and ethics, and teaching them an appreciation for divine inviolable values. This year the Rebbe’s birthday fell on March 24th (Nissan 11 in the Jewish calen- dar) and to mark this, the City of Stamford and Mayor David Martin presented Rab- bi Moshe Shemtov from Chabad of Stam- Stamford Mayor David Martin (left) presents Rabbi Moshe Shemtov with a ford with a proclamation declaring March Proclamation of "Education and Sharing Day" in Stamford, CT. 24th to be “Education and Sharing Day” in Stamford. Mayor Martin has been a long- “our intellectual and moral compass” and The words honored the Rebbe’s mission as a time friend of Chabad of Stamford and also proclaimed that “the character of tireless advocate for youth across the globe, has regularly attended their annual Gala young people is anchored to a communi- teaching that education should not be lim- dinners and community Giant Menorah ty by courage and compassion to prevent ited to acquiring knowledge in preparation Lightings at Latham Park each year. drifting with current times; and to craft a for a career, but extend to universal moral The proclamation acknowledged the more optimistic future by encouraging a and ethical values that are the basis of any importance of education to developing spirit of hope and service in our children.’’ peaceful, civilized society. LIFE & LEGACY® Year One Celebration June 23rd 7:00pm (Rain date June 24th) Stamford Nature Center - 151 Scoﬁeldtown Road Zoom participants welcomed!

Join United Jewish Federation in celebrating the 100’s who have committed legacy gifts to the future of our Jewish Community!

Guest Speaker:

Amy Lederman "My Grandmother's Candlesticks: Leaving a Legacy of Love and Values" Invitations coming soon. For more information call Lenore Fogel, LIFE & LEGACY Coordinator 203-321-1373 x115 or email [email protected]

MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 COMMUNITY NEWS The New Jewish Voice 11 Stamford JCC’s JTalks Series with Brian Kriftcher (Courtesy of JCC) Stamford JCC’s JTalks modeling of four foundational pillars – fam- Stamford Peace now helps more than 1000 series is designed to showcase highly ac- ily, faith, education and athletics. Shared local area youth to play basketball and learn complished individuals, within the Stam- family memories, strong Jewish identity and critical life lessons. ford Jewish community and the commu- the ethic that we are here for making the Seeing academics as the lifeline to move nity at large, who have contributed to the world a better place informs every aspect of beyond systemic inequities Brian started growth and richness of our daily lives for be- his life. Beyond Limits which provides peer to peer ing champions of unique innovations, com- A successful Wall Street executive, in counseling in math and science for 200 kids munity initiatives or other groundbreaking 2006 at the age of 40, Brian made an ide- twice a week. ventures from business to science to philan- alistic career change that brought togeth- Currently the boys’ Varsity basketball thropy to public service. er his twin passions for education and bas- head coach at Notre Dame-Fairfield High In March, the JCC was honored to fea- ketball. Brian’s coaching basketball for the School, Brian is a long-time Board mem- ture Brian Kriftcher, Coach K, as this year’s JCC’s 2006 Maccabi Games was the pivotal ber and former Global Chairman of Peace- first JTalks speaker. Brian’s story is an inspir- point when he rediscovered the joy he found Players International which, through bas- ing narrative of one man’s quest to follow his in sharing his love of the game and teach- ketball, bridges divides and develops leaders dreams. A former president and long-time ing life lessons. He wanted to help disadvan- among children and communities in con- board member of the JCC, he and his fam- taged children dream. flict globally. ily have been among the community’s ma- Brian’s inner-city teaching experience Brian’s humble demeanor and compel- jor philanthropists, including, among oth- strengthened his understanding of the deep ling narrative about his visionary work was er things, having named the Stamford JCC’s opportunity gap in underserved commu- optimistic, uplifting and energizing, all es- “Legacy Gymnasium” in memory of his fa- nities. Brian’s founding of Stamford Peace sential qualities to make his dream of “clos- ther, Noel, a long-time educator. Youth Foundation is the fulfillment of his ing the opportunity gap” a reality. Brian credits his pathway to achiev- mission to use the game as a tool of posi- The video of Brian’s JTalk is available to ing highly acclaimed success to his fa- tive change both on and off the court. Start- view in the Arts & Culture section of the Brian Kriftcher, “Coach K” ther’s, mother’s and step-mother’s focus and ing with just one team of 9 and 10 year olds, Stamford JCC website, www.stamfordjcc.org. (CREDIT: WWW.PEACEYOUTHCT.ORG) Friendship Circle Goes to the Zoo (Courtesy of Friendship Circle) On a together. It was a fun and special morning involved with the Friendship Circle, please clear Sunday morning in March, close to for both of us!” contact Director Malya Shmotkin at 70 Friendship Circle participants met up For more information about becoming [email protected] at the Beardsley Zoo. Volunteers and their special friends enjoyed the morning together. While everyone was waiting for their wristbands, they joined together for songs and prayer. Afterwards, the 20-plus Friendship Cir- cle families and their friends spread out throughout the zoo to see the animals and exhibitions. Friends took photos together, talked to the animals and enjoyed the sun- ny day. Friendship Circle Volunteer Adin Fogel said, ‘My Friendship Circle friend and I had a great time! It was so nice to Tamir Shashoua rides a “bear” at the zoo. have a fun place to go and enjoy our time

(l-r) Bonita Rappaport, Ellie Rappaport, Tracey Davidson, Sarah Davidson, Alana Leventhal, Debbie Leventhal at the Beardsley Zoo.

MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 12 The New Jewish Voice FEDERATION GRANTS AT WORK United Jewish Federation Grants Making An Impact: Your Donations At Work! For nearly 50 years, United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien has been at the forefront of change, adapting to meet the ever-evolving needs of a dynamic community. In these uncertain times, our purpose has never been clearer.

Schoke Jewish Family Service Offers Hebrew Free Loan Program (Courtesy of Schoke JFS) During this dif- emergency assistance program. Communi- as a creditor; you shall not charge them inter- In the local Stamford, New Canaan and ficult time of economic recovery from the ty members can receive funding to support est.” Hebrew Free Loan programs have exist- Darien communities, this initiative contin- loss of employment or income because of immediate, concrete needs including: emer- ed in the United States for over a century to ues to be funded by United Jewish Federa- the pandemic, Schoke Jewish Family Service gency home or car repairs, medical expenses, expand opportunity to those who cannot se- tion of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and of Fairfield County continues to offer help funeral costs, camp tuition, participation in a cure commercial credit. Darien. The Upper Fairfield catchment area through the Hebrew Free Loan program. gap-year or short-term Jewish or Israel edu- To participate in the program, appli- receives funds from the Federation for Jew- Created in 2020 with a grant from the annu- cation program, or attending a vocational or cants will need to provide financial informa- ish Philanthropy of Upper Fairfield County al campaign of United Jewish Federation of technical program to advance their career. tion, secure a guarantor, submit a statement to service that community. Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien, As a Jewish social service agency all of need, and commit to a repayment sched- For more information about the He- the program is designed to offer local com- Schoke JFS programs are inspired by Jewish ule. The length of repayment will be deter- brew Free Loan program, contact Leah munity members the opportunity to receive texts and traditions. As Exodus 22:24 teaches mined by the loan amount, with the assump- Schechter at 203-921-4161 or by e-mail at interest-free loans to support financial needs – “If you lend money to my people, even to tion that most loans will be repaid within 36 [email protected]. All inquiries are kept that do not qualify for funding through their the poor among you, do not act toward them months. strictly confidential. Reflected in the Light: The Diversity of Afula/Gilboa Shines Bright (Story shared by Emek Medical it in time for the inevitable farewell. symbolic and worthy of national rec- Center in Afula, a recipient of United Maher, trained in Jewish studies, ap- ognition. In this year's 73rd Inde- Jewish Federation) plied his knowledge and deeply em- pendence Day celebrations in Jerusa- A male nurse. Judaism and Is- pathic spirit at that critical moment. lem, Maher has been chosen to light lam. Respect and empathy. Life In a phone call with the man's fami- one of twelve flames … an honor be- and death. Corona – Emek Medi- ly, Maher the Muslim nurse, recited stowed upon those who represent the cal Center in Afula-and a moment in aloud in Hebrew the "Shema Yisra- best within our society. time. el" prayer … Hear O Israel, the Lord Reflected in that light is love and Maher Ibrahim is a Muslim male our God, the Lord is One. His act of hope for us all. nurse who heads the nursing staff of loving empathy, kindness and under- Emek and Israel salute Maher Internal Medicine, which was and is standing went far beyond the norms Ibrahim. the designated Corona ward where of nursing and in that brilliant time- Afula/Gilboa is UJF’s partnership the severely ill and ventilated patients less moment, he personified the spir- region in Israel. Along with 10 other have been hospitalized. Maher was it of Emek and Israel. Federations, UJF is part of SNEC, the there when a critically ill, aging, deep- The honor that Maher bestowed Southern New England Consortium. ly religious Jewish man was nearing upon the dying man and his family Donors like you enable us to impact his end. His family would not make has been noticed by Israel as deeply this region each and every day. An Extraordinary Full-Circle Shlichut in Ethiopia As an Ethiopian who made Aliyah 30 years ago, Shira’s recent experience as an emissary in Ethiopia was truly empowering (Courtesy of the Jewish Agency for Isra- family members in Israel after over a decade el) Shira Safrash Aman was born in Ethiopia of separation. Shira chose to help with the and made Aliyah when she was six years old Operation by going on Shlichut (emissary through Operation Solomon. Her older sister service) for three weeks to Ethiopia to help was left behind with her husband but was able with the logistics of such a big and important to reunite with her family in Israel after only undertaking. a year. This period, though relatively short in She left three children behind at home; her comparison to many other Ethiopian Jews’ older daughter, Liel, is a ShinShin (service year stories of families being separated, seemed like Israeli emissary) in Seattle. However, when Is- an eternity for Shira’s family. rael closed Ben Gurion Airport in early 2021 Her connection to olim (immigrants) from due to the increased risk of coronavirus vari- Ethiopia drove Shira to work at The Jewish ants, her three-week Shlichut extended to two Agency’s Absorption Center in Bet Alfa (near months in Ethiopia. Throughout her stay in Afula). And in 2020, 30 years after she made the country, she appreciated the chance to help Aliyah, she had an opportunity to come full other Ethiopian families make Aliyah, just as circle and get real closure. hers did 30 years ago. Operation Zur Israel was facilitating the The Jewish Agency is supported by grants Aliyah of 2,000 Ethiopian Jews who had from United Jewish Federation’s Annual been waiting in Gondar to reunite with Campaign. Shira Safrash Aman (CREDIT: THE JEWISH AGENCY FOR ISRAEL) MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 FEDERATION GRANTS AT WORK The New Jewish Voice 13 United Jewish Federation Grants Making An Impact: Your Donations At Work! We’re leaning into innovative, new approaches to solve the biggest problems of our day: To care for people in need. Respond to crises close to home and far away. And shape our Jewish future. We’re bringing people together to think big. To be bold. To act like the future of our community depends on it. Because it does. Because of YOU, UJF’s generous donors, these programs exist and help so many! Friendship Circle Celebrates United Jewish Federation, Schoke JFS and Passover on Zoom KAVOD SHEF Partner to Help Survivors

(Courtesy of Friendship Circle) (Courtesy of Schoke JFS) Meet Ilya. He is Spring has arrived and over fifteen a Holocaust Survivor from the Former Sovi- Friendship Circle families gathered et Union. With a grant from KAVOD SHEF, online to celebrate the holiday of which is matched by United Jewish Federa- Passover, thanks to a grant funded tion, Schoke Jewish Family Service is able to by United Jewish Federation as part provide direct expense reimbursement to sur- of their annual support of Friend- vivors like Ilya. ship Circle. Ilya desperately wanted to gracefully age Participants joined together on in place in the home which he shared for all Zoom on Sunday March 21. It was an the 60+ years of his loving marriage. A stair- opportunity to socialize and to learn lift enabled him to safely access all 3 floors of about all the different parts of the his home. He is now happily able to get up to seder. Chani Cunin, Teen Volunteer his bedroom at night and down to his base- Coordinator and Chaya Hanoka, ment during the day. Ilya is grateful that the Adult Program Coordinator, led the kindness of others have enabled him to live a families in an hour of singing and life of dignity. going through the steps of the seder. KAVOD SURVIVORS OF THE HOL- Each participant received a package OCAUST EMERGENCY FUND (KAVOD beforehand to use during the event. SHEF) estimates that 80,000 Holocaust Survi- The boxes, which were packed by vors are living today in the United States—and volunteers, contained a seder place- more than 30,000 are living at or near poverty. Ilya mat, a Passover guide, some sed- The support these Survivors receive does not er games, and seder food and drink allow them to afford what is needed to live a Services for Survivors and allocated through items (maror, matzah, salt, lettuce, Friendship Circle model-seder-to-go. dignified life. Many are choosing between heat KAVOD. They partner with local Federations and grape juice). Participants were or food, medicine or rent. Others have dire like UJF and local service agencies like SJFS, able to play the games and munch on the “We are grateful to United Jewish Fed- living conditions because they cannot invest use the grants to provide critical emergency treats as they followed along in real time. eration for providing this impact grant what is needed to repair their homes. services like: “We had so much fun,” Chaya said. and enabling Friendship Circle to bring Recognizing the importance of reach- Dental “Playing the games really helped us con- this program to families,” shared Fred ing any Survivor regardless of where he or Vision nect over Zoom!” Chani added, “It was Springer, Friendship Circle chair. she lives, Seed the Dream Foundation part- Medical wonderful to be able to sing Passover songs For more information about becom- nered with KAVOD to establish the KAVOD Food together, and feel that spring is coming ing involved with the Friendship Circle, Survivors of the Holocaust Emergency Fund Emergency Home Care and hopefully we will all be able to spend please contact Director Malya Shmotkin at (SHEF) in 2019. KAVOD SHEF exponential- Emergency Transportation more time together in person soon!” [email protected] ly multiplies the dollars and vital services di- Emergency Home Services (Emergency rectly reaching Survivors as well as increases Utilities, Home Repair, and Rent Support) awareness to this crisis. Leveraging the funds And more. raised through a special philanthropic nation- “Schoke Jewish Family Service is grateful PJ Library Hosts Movie Watch Party al matching initiative, KAVOD SHEF works to be able to help survivors like Ilya. Thanks The Warmflash and Sperber children en- movie snack bags, and enjoyed a pre-movie with designated communities across the Unit- to the generosity of United Jewish Federa- joyed popcorn and a movie during UJF’s PJ Zoom schmooze time allowing them to see ed States to bring millions of additional dol- tion and Kavod Shef, we can provide needed Library movie watch party on Sunday, April friends and take part in fun ice breakers. lars to the Survivor community. services for these survivors to live their lives 18th. Families were treated to complimentary 100% of KAVOD SHEF matching funds with dignity” shared Rebekah Kanefsky, Case raised are directed toward Emergency Manager at Schoke JFS. United Jewish Federations Shalom/Welcome Program Helps Connect Newcomers Kathy Sosnovich recently moved to Stamford to be near her adult children in town. She received a Shalom Stamford Wel- come visit from Sharon Franklin, Manag- ing Director of Campaign and Community Engagement. Kathy Sosnovich MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 14 The New Jewish Voice COMMUNITY NEWS

Amy & Henry Bubel on the engagement Brooke Wolly, daughter of Dana Bits & Pieces of their daughter, Alissa Jane Bubel Horowitz & Peter Wolly. to Jared Neil Bush. Jordan Wolly, son of Dana Horowitz BY SANDY Liza Kuritsky & Michael Mimoun on Maxine & Jay Freilich on the engage- and Peter Wolly. GOLOVE the birthday of a son, Noam Benson ment of their son, Gary Freilich to To submit infor- Mimoun; and to grandparents, Danielle Hauser, daughter of Karen WE MOURN THE LOSS OF: mation, please call Nancy & Gadi Mimoun. & Mark Hauser. Louis Abbey: father of Debbie (203) 912-9945 or Nicole & Jonathan Makovsky on the Roni & Jan Kaplowitz on the engage- Morgenthaler. email sandy@ujf. birth of a daughter. ment of their daughter, Lauren Avidan Michael Gantshar: son of Miri org Danielle Morgulis & Shawn Rasmussen Kaplowitz. & David Gantshar. on the birth of a son, Ephraim Bonnie & Zev Polansky on the engage- Anne C. Grisanti: mother of Mary Lee MAZEL TOV Morgulis-Rasmussen; and to grand- ment of their son, Tani Polansky Grisanti. Sandy Golove TO GROWING parents Julie & Richard Morgulis. to Alyssa Nagar, daughter of Linda Howard Gunty: father of Robin Evans. FAMILIES: Marisa Levi & Andrew Staines on the Kogen and Avner Nagar. Carol Hoffman: mother of Augusta Dorothy Abrams & Adam Levinson birth of a daughter, Natalie Emma Harriet & Victor Liss on the marriage Hoffman, David Hoffman and James on the birth of a daughter, Miller Staines and a son, Evan David of their granddaughter, Samantha Hoffman. “Millie” Louise Levinson; and to Staines; and to grandparents, Marcia Liss to Paul Lozbin. Paul Josephson: husband of Susan grandparents, Margie & Bob Abrams & Mark Staines. Marian Freed & Robert Martino on Josephson; and father of Jennifer and Sally Wasserman & Henry Melissa & Daryl Litwak on the birth of the engagement of their son, Joshua Josephson, Linda Josephson, and Hecht; and to great grandmother, a son, Eli Beckett Litwak. Martino to Ariella Saperstein. Michael Josephson. Rita Edelson. Alana & Elliot Meiteles on the birth Herb Kahan: father of Cynthia Kahan Suellyn Bache on the birth of her of a daughter, Lila Becca Meiteles; MAZEL and Susan Sieber; and partner to great granddaughter, Logan Reese and to grandparents, Meryl & Larry TO B’NAI MITZVAH: Margery Wiesenthal. Schulman. Meiteles. Jordan Alexander, son of Natalie and Daniel Kaplan: father of Bradley Elana & Chaim Barer on the birth of a Karen & Gary Neems on the birth of Jeffrey Alexander. Kaplan. daughter. their grandchildren, Simone Layla Sasha Handel, daughter of Marni and Sandor Klein: father of George Klein Kristin & Alex Bass on the birth of a Neems and Will Davis Neems. Michael Handel. and Susan Klein. son, Jacob Robert Bass; and to grand- Rose & Bruce Newman on the birth of a Alanna Harper, daughter of Glenn Valerie Perlis: mother of Rebecca parents, Andrea & Eric Bass. granddaughter. Harper & Amy Lilien-Harper. Griffith. Lee Fanwick on the birth of a great Alana & Jed Selkowitz on the adoption Eric Kwalwasser, son of Dani & Avi Rabbi Solomon Schiff: father of Steven granddaughter. of a daughter, Marlow Ivy Selkowitz; Kwalwasser. Schiff. Samantha & Graig Fischgrund on and to grandparents, Betsey & Arty Wesley Levine, son of Hayley and Josh Michael Walshe: husband of Estelle the birth of a son, Maxwell Gesse Selkowitz. Levine. Walshe; and father of Shushannah Fischgrund; and to great grand- Navah & Rabbi Naftali Wolfe on the Brooke & Mia Neigler, daughter of Walshe Yasgur and Dalia Goby. mother, Binnie Ditesheim. birth of a daughter. Helene & David Neigler. Genevieve Weingrad: wife of Murph Adrienne & Scott Karpen on the birth of Aryeh Pollack, son of Maureen & Weingrad; and mother of Deborah a daughter, Elizabeth Bayla Karpen; MAZEL TOV ON ENGAGEMENTS & Jonathan Pollack. Weingrad and Jan Weingrad Smith. and to grandparents, Marcie & Ray MARRIAGES: Harrison Tronick, son of Jane Levine Sybil Zeidman: mother of Elizabeth Blum and Sharon & Sandy Karpen. David Bessaleli on the marriage of and Adam Tronick. Krowitz and Sara Zeidman. Jackie & Marshall Kurland on the birth his grandson, Ezra Jasper to Or-ya Lucas Vellozzi, son of Debby & Chris William Zietz: father of Claire Foster. of a daughter, Maddie Layla Kurland. Buskila. Vellozzi.

COVID, we’re able to say that we ran exact- ly the same program. We even were able to Triumphing Over Tough Times provide summative assessments; we invest- ed in a secure online platform for exams, An Interview with BCHA’s Upper School Principal and we were able to offer tests, quizzes, and final exams. So we were able to make sure BY JUDIE JACOBSON of Connecticut. they had an equivalent experience to what In July 2019, Rabbi Shimmy Trencher Rabbi Trencher talked about how the they would have had in school in terms of arrived in Stamford, Conn. to take up his BCHA Upper School fared during the their learning. new post as principal of Bi-Cultural He- pandemic. Is there anything new to report? brew Academy Upper School (BCHA). Q: It’s been a year marked by chal- Our staff has really been committed Little did he know that less than a year lenges you could not have possibly an- throughout the pandemic to finding ways later — in March 2020— he would undergo ticipated. How are things going? to enhance and grow our program. Which a ‘trial by fire’ of sorts, as the Covid-19 pan- Shimmy Trencher: School is go- is why this year, in the midst of the chaos of demic shuttered Connecticut schools and ing very well. I'm really proud of how the the pandemic, we've added additional AP took learning online…putting his exten- teachers and the students have really come course offerings as well as nine mini-elec- sive experience, and his skills and talents together, making this year work in ensur- tives. We added studio art, a theater pro- as an educator and administrator, to an un- ing that learning is robust and the commu- gram, and a political discussion group. We precedented test. nity continues to grow and develop. added photography and web design and Now, a year and half since he took over In the spring, when we transitioned to mobile app development and film. as head of BCHA Upper School, Rab- distance learning, not one day of instruc- Is there a positive take-away from bi Trencher looks back at the success with tion was lost. We had a plan in place, so Rabbi Shimmy Trencher the past year? which the school has weathered the storm, when school closed, by 8:45 the next morn- Over the course of the last year and and looks ahead to a future that is increas- ing, students were in class. Students were able to engage students and maintain their a half, we've really gotten clear on what ingly bright. receiving the same amount of instruction attention and their interest, even though makes us special as a school, the values A native of West Hartford, Rab- each day that they would have received in they were home. The feedback we received and beliefs we hold, and what we believe bi Trencher is a graduate of the Bess and school. Teachers were able to transition from both parents and students was 100% education is all about. And we've sought Paul Sigel Hebrew Academy in Bloomfield their classes to online learning extreme- positive. to infuse those values into everything we (now the New England Jewish Academy). ly effectively. And because our class siz- Now, when our students apply to col- do and to communicate them to parents, A graduate of Yeshiva University, he holds a es are a little smaller than what you would lege and the college asks about what hap- students, and prospective parents and masters in social work from the University find in many other schools, we were really pened last year in your school in terms of students. MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 SHAVUOT The New Jewish Voice 15 Shavuot Night Learning at 24 Hours of Shavuot Learning with Agudath Sholom Temple Beth El Join Congregation Agudath Sholom on controversy at different junctures of histo- (Courtesy of Temple Beth El) The Rab- Clubs (FJMC), and Seminario Rabínico Sunday, May 16th from 11:00 PM - 2:00 AM ry. The first session will be taught by Rabbi binical Assembly, the membership organ- Latinoamericano. for late-night Shavuot in-person learning Daniel Cohen and the final one by Rabbi ization for Conservative rabbis, is excit- Access to the experience is FREE for with the theme "Controversies Throughout Moshe Kurtz. Also, make sure to join for the ed to present the Conservative/Masorti all, regardless of synagogue affiliation or The Ages''. Learn and debate with your fel- middle session where YOU get to take a role Tikkun Leil Shavuot, 24 hours of learn- organizational participation. https://www. low Stamford Jewish community members! in the debate itself! Please reach out to either ing from May 16th at 12:00 noon to May rabbinicalassembly.org/story/conserva- Sessions will incorporate both traditional lec- Rabbi Daniel Cohen (rabbicohen@cas-stam- 17th at 12:00 noon EDT, in partnership tivemasorti-tikkun-leil-shavuot-5781 tures and interactive debates. Each of the three ford.org) or Rabbi Moshe Kurtz (rabbikurtz@ with United Synagogue of Conserva- A YouTube link will be made availa- learning sessions will explore a unique Jewish cas-stamford.org) with inquiries. tive Judaism (USCJ), the Cantors Assem- ble via social media and all synagogue/ bly (CA), the Federation of Jewish Men's organizational email lists. Cheesecake: The Ultimate Shavuos with Chabad of Stamford (Courtesy of Chabad of Stamford) Jewish Women Connected (JWC) will Shavuot Dessert Celebrate the festival of Shavuos with hold its final cooking club event of the There are two traditions that I love Years ago I developed a basic cheese- Chabad of Stamford in meaningful and year on Thursday, May 13th at 8:00pm. about Shavuot. First is that on this holi- cake batter that suits our family. It’s rich, fun ways this year. Join the community The JWC cooking club meets before day, which begins at sunset on May 16th, cream-cheese loaded and dense. If I want at Chabad of Stamford, 770 High Ridge every major holiday to prepare special we read the Book of Ruth. It tells the mov- a cake that’s fluffier, I substitute a cup of Road, on Monday, May 17th at 10:00am dishes to enjoy with family and friends. ing story of the young Moabite widow ricotta in place of 8 ounces of cream cheese. for the reading of the Ten Command- Participants can either pick up a box of who gave up the comforts of royalty to live I also add some sour cream (or plain Greek ments followed by an ice cream party pre-measured ingredients to prepare among the Israelites. She follows her moth- yogurt) to give the cake an extra tangy fla- and dairy buffet. The event includes a together at home or just join in for a er-in-law Naomi who tries to urge her to vor. And I make all sorts of other chang- special ice cream party for children at Zoom demonstration of varied and de- return to her people. Ruth’s loving response es depending on what we want after a par- 11am. All COVID safety protocols will licious Shavuos dishes. For more in- has endured through the ages: ticular meal. be maintained. formation and to sign up, please email “Entreat me not to leave thee, Here’s the basic cake recipe plus a few To prepare for the festival, Chabad’s [email protected] And to return home from following af- variations I’ve created over the years. ter thee; For whither thou goest, I will go; Basic Cheesecake And where thou lodgest, I will lodge; 1-1/2 teaspoons butter or margarine Avital Chizhik-Goldschmidt Thy people are my people, and thy G d, 1/3 cup graham cracker crumbs my G d. (approximately) To Teach Pre-Shavuot Class Where thou diest, will I die, and there 1-1/2 pounds cream cheese (3-8 ounce be buried; packages) (Courtesy of UJF) On Sunday, May G d do so to me, and more also, 1 cup sugar May 16th, at 10:00am, United Jew- If aught but death part thee and me.” 1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract ish Federation’s Education Com- 1/2 cup dairy sour cream or unflavored mittee is excited to host Avital The second fabulous Shavuot tradition yogurt Chizhik-Goldschmidt for a pre- is eating dairy foods – our family is big on 1/3 cup cream (whipping cream or half Shavuot class entitled “Journalism, dairy meals. The holiday classic is cheese- and half) Jewish Ethics, and Moral Respon- cake of course, the ultimate dairy dessert. 4 large eggs sibility.” The session is free and That’s a good thing, especially for people Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spread will be hosted on Zoom. like me, who work in the food world, be- the butter on the bottom and sides of a Avital Chizhik-Goldschmidt cause the recipe is one that can be changed 9-inch springform pan. Sprinkle the in- is a writer living in New York in a multitude of ways, some simple, some side of the pan with the graham crack- City. Previously, she was the elaborate, that encourage my creative urges. er crumbs. Shake the pan to coat the bot- Life/Features editor at the For- tom and sides of the pan ward, and a reporter for Haaretz. completely. Beat the cream Her essays have appeared in the cheese in the bowl of an New York Times, Vox, and Sa- electric mixer set at me- lon, among others, and Avital dium speed for 1-2 min- has taught journalism at Yeshi- utes or until the cheese has va University's Stern College for softened and is smooth. Women. She does pastoral work Gradually add the sug- alongside her husband Rabbi ar and beat for 2-3 min- Benjamin Goldschmidt in Man- utes or until the mixture hattan's Upper East Side. is smooth, scraping down Avital, 28, is no stranger the sides of the bowl oc- to standing out. As a religious casionally with a rubber schoolgirl, it was not common spatula. Add the vanil- or accepted to write so freely. Avital Chizhik-Goldschmidt la extract, sour cream and She competed in national writ- whipping cream and beat ing competitions amidst mostly sec- or modest wedding gowns, Avital for one minute or until the ular students. “It was kind of weird,” Chizhik-Goldschmidt has emerged as batter is smooth. Add the she says. “I was showing up in a long, a leading Orthodox feminist voice. Her eggs one at a time, beating pleated skirt alongside a bunch of hip- Twitter feed amplifies that voice and after each addition to in- py writers.” gives her a space to apply her lens to corporate them. Pour the Avital is on the JTA 50 Twitter everyday news stories, both Jewish and List. Through writing on topics like non-Jewish. CONTINUED ON PAGE 16 abortion, the sexuality of the mikveh To register, visit www.ujf.org/Avital MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 16 The New Jewish Voice COMMUNITY NEWS

Cheesecake: The Ultimate Shavuot Dessert Cantor’s Concert at TBE to Feature Nefesh Mountain CONTINUED FROM PAGE 15 “Turtle” cheesecake: delete the gra- CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3 batter into the prepared pan. Place the ham cracker coat- springform pan inside a larger pan. Fill ing for the pan. In- Open to the public, tickets for the con- the larger pan with enough hot water to stead, make a bot- cert are priced at $36, $10 for students. come at least 1-inch up the sides of the tom crust by com- To purchase tickets or place a tribute baking dish. Bake the cake for 65-75 min- bining 1 cup crushed ad online go to www.tiyurl.com/tbecc2021. utes or until the top of the cake is tanning graham crackers For further information, call the TBE office lightly. Remove the springform pan from with 1/4 cup brown 203-322-6901, ext. 301 or [email protected] the water and let the cake cool in the pan. sugar, then work in When the cake has reached room tem- 4 tablespoons but- perature, refrigerate it at least 4 hours or ter until crumbly. until it is thoroughly chilled. Remove the Press into the pan sides of the pan to serve. and bake (no need Chocolate Cheesecake: add 10 ounc- for the second pan es melted, cooled semisweet chocolate to yet) for 10-12 min- the batter. utes. Spoon in the Half-and-Half Cheesecake: add 5 basic batter and bake ounces melted chocolate to half the bat- as in the basic recipe. ter, spoon the chocolate batter into the Let the cake cool. For pan, then carefully spoon the vanilla bat- the top: heat 1/4 cup ter on top. cream until hot, add Pumpkin Cheesecake: replace white 3 ounces chopped sugar with brown sugar; delete the sour chocolate and stir cream and replace with 3/4 cup mashed until melted. Let cool pumpkin (canned is fine); stir in 1-1/2 slightly and spread teaspoons ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon over cool cake. Scat- Book Cover grated nutmeg, one teaspoon ground gin- ter 2 tablespoons ger and one teaspoon grated orange peel chopped nuts on top. Optional: pour car- Kitchen and Hip Kosher. Visit her food blog, to the batter. amel sauce on top of cut slices of cake. Kitchen Vignettes, at www.ronniefein.com, Berry topped cheesecake: place whole Ronnie Fein is a cookbook author, food friend on Facebook at RonnieVailFein, berries on top of cooled cake, brush with writer and cooking teacher in Stamford. Twitter at @RonnieVFein, Instagram at melted apricot preserves or currant jam. She is the author of The Modern Kosher @RonnieVFein. Eric Lindberg and Doni Zasloff

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providing personal care products to women in our community. All orders must be received by April 30. Orchid can be picked up between 2-5pm on Friday May 7th.

Place your order at ujf.org/orchid or call Sharon at (203) 321-1373, ext. 109

MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 LIFE & LEGACY The New Jewish Voice 17

Elissa and Philip Klapper Jayne and Bud Schiff Harris Kligman Carol Ruth and Herman Shepherd* LIFE & LEGACY Honor Roll Susan Kostin Nancy Schiffman United Jewish Federation is proud to partner with the Harold Grinspoon Foundation Arthur Kramer* Monica Smyth and Michael Schlessinger to bring the Stamford, New Canaan and Darien community the Harold Grinspoon Life Jeannie and Brian Kriftcher Elayne and James Schoke* and Legacy Program. Through our communal efforts the following individuals have made Elizabeth and Scott Krowitz Chaya and Levi Segal a commitment to one or more Jewish communal institutions to secure our future. Myrna and George Sessa For more information contact Lenore Fogel or Diane Sloyer at (203) 321-1373 or Jackie and Marshall Kurland [email protected], [email protected]. Lorraine and David Kweskin Jessica and Laurence Sheinman Helen and Ed Kweskin Leah and Rabbi Moshe Shemtov Lieba and Steve Lander Stephanie and Bob Sherman Anonymous (13) Lenore and Dr. Ilan Fogel Shelley Leibowitz Malya Shmotkin Adrienne and Michael Alexander Miriam Lavinksy and Morton Folb* Lois D. Stark and Gary P. Lessen Ronnie Ness Sichel Jeri Appel Sharon Franklin Elizabeth Libner Dr. Steven Sichel Mark Appel Connie and Alan Freeman R. and J. Licht Paula Simon Erica Snow Arbron Rachel and Keith Friedman Vered and Mark Links Diane Sloyer Suellyn Bache Marc Friedman Eleanor and Mort Lowenthal Diane and Elliot Sloyer Monica Becker and Edieal Pinker Donna and Edward Fuhrman Stu Madison Ed Smith Rachel Tyd and Robert Beldock Nancy and Mark Funt Lisa and Jeff Manheim Greta Solomon Gayle and Mitchell Bell Lesley and Dennis Gehr Norma and Milton Mann* Miriam and Steve Sosnick Devra Jaffe-Berkowitz and Parry Berkowitz Carole Gladstone Susan and Len Mark Sandy and Moshe Speter Darona and Rabbi Tzvi Bernstein Herbert Gladstone* Chris Maroc Ed Spilka Claude Bernstein Sylvia and Herb Gladstone* Melanie Massell Eileen and Fred Springer Melody Bernstein Leslie Glenn Michal and Rabbi Levi Mendelow Beverly and David Stein Bruce Blasnik Robin Frederick and Michael Gold Nancy Zinbarg Mimoun Betsy and Michael Stone Judith B. Block Cyndy and Eric Goldberg Jessica and Eliaz Niedober Gladys and Greg Teitel Marcia Braunstein Caryl Goldstein* Marsha and Louis Panzer Dr. Julie and Rabbi Jay TelRav Amy and Henry Bubel Meryl and David Gordon Leah and Doni Perl The Estate of Sheila Carmine* Alan Cohen Nan and Paul Gordon Dr. Robin Evans and Dr. Jeffrey Perry The Estate of Thomas Gilmartin* Andrea and David M. Cohen Linda B. Gornitsky Caryl Ferber Poser and Peter Poser The Estate of Ronald Gross* Diane and Rabbi Daniel Cohen Sharon and Larry Greenberg Enid Randall* Ellen and Richard Weber Malerie Yolen-Cohen and Jeff Cohen Pam Ehrenkranz and Matt Greenberg Bonita and Stephen Rappoport Linda B. Gornitsky and Harvey Weber Judy and David S.* Cohen Grecia and Ron* Gross Judith and Robert Raymond Dana and Carl Weinberg Mimi Cohen Scott Handelman Lisa and Harry Rich Leon Weisburgh Rachel and Ephraim Cohen Jacqueline Herman Judy and Adam Rin Janet Welkovich Roberta Cohen Dr. Shara and Rabbi David Israel Betty and Dan* Roberts Robyn and Mark Winarksy Saul Cohen* Sari and Alan Jaffe Sonia and Brian Roitman Neda Khaghan and Robert Yaghoubian Arthur Cramer* Meryl and Ron Japha Arlene and Carl Rosen Sheryl and Dan Young Janice Steinberg and Stephen Davidson Judith and Grant Kallen Arlene Rosen Joan Zinbarg* Helen and Marty Donner Helene and Harvey Kaminski Irma Ross Renee Zinn Fran and Bob Dorf Chanie Kamman Sandra Ross Shoshana Dweck Jason Kaplowitz Sally and Jim Rothkopf *Of Blessed Memory Debra and Daniel Faizakoff Joy Katz Ruth Rothseid This is the list provided to UJF at time of Michelle Fanwick Judith and Sheldon Katz Bonnie Russo publishing. We apologize for any names that Esta and Jay Feinsod Larry Katz Edith Samers have been omitted. Please let us know and the Peggy and Jerry Fensterstock Betsy and Peter Kempner Sharyn and Richard Sarner missing names will be added to the next issue Stephanie and Howard Fogel Liz and Marc Kitay Hilde Scheraga* of the paper. UJF LIFE & LEGACY Testimonials In early 2020, United Jewish Federation I grew up in the people who live here, and the diversity sacred work while engaging with and learn- was selected to join the Life & Legacy Pro- a much different that makes our town so special. I have also ing from each other. The standard of mutu- gram of the Harold Grinspoon Founda- environment- in a learned that while large gifts are needed to al respect and inclusive programming filters tion. Ten additional Jewish communal or- small city in West keep our agencies and institutions afloat, it into everyday life in Stamford, uniting the ganizations have joined UJF in securing the Virginia with a is also the smaller gifts that are the back- community rather than reinforcing bound- future of our Jewish Community. small but close bone of our community’s philanthropy. aries between syn- Each edition of The New Jewish Voice Jewish communi- Every person counts. agogues or schools will feature the testimonials of community (yes there are When asked if I would take part in the or agencies. ty members just like you who have declared Jews in West Vir- Life and Legacy initiative, I said yes right Our hope in their intent to leave a legacy gift to an organ- ginia!). I saw how away. It was a very easy process, which will leaving one of ization in the Stamford Jewish community. my parents gave benefit the institutions I chose, and will our Life & Lega- back to our shul. have an impact for years to come. cy gifts to UJF is SHARON FRANKLIN TESTIMONIAL Sharon Franklin To keep the Jew- that this remark- I have lived in Stamford for over 25 years ish community ELISSA AND PHILIP KLAPPER able communi- and have loved our vibrant and close-knit alive, everyone had to roll up their sleeves TESTIMONIAL ty will continue to Jewish community. It is truly a unique place. and be an active member. My belief is that To us, the beauty of the Stamford Jew- reflect these val- It was a wonderful place to raise my two no matter what the size of your communi- ish community is the seemingly organic in- ues we hold dear, daughters, one now in college and the other ty, small like where I grew up, or in Stam- teraction of Jews from all streams of Juda- and that the next in the workforce. I can see how they have ma- ford with a multitude of Jews, it is impor- ism. Central to creating and maintaining Elissa and Philip generation of Jews tured and grown, and I know it is partly be- tant for everyone to give back by action this unique warmth are our communal in- Klapper raised in Stamford cause of me, but also because of the commu- or support, to keep it alive and thriving. stitutions, chief among them the United will be as commit- nity they live in. They went to Jewish nursery While working at Federation for the Jewish Federation. UJF’s Board of Directors ted to Jewish religious observance and Jew- school and day school, and were surrounded last seven plus years, I have had the hon- represents a wide range of political and re- ish communal responsibility as those who by wonderful friends, mentors and teachers. or of learning more about our community, ligious outlooks. These volunteers do their paved the way for us. MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 18 The New Jewish Voice COMMUNITY NEWS

United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien Invites You To Join The Community On The... BETTER TOGETHER COMMUNITY MISSION TO ISRAEL

Russian Silver Marks: c.1700-1918 Archives at Home

BY PETER LILIENTHAL WITH Ivan Zakharov (ИЗ), who was active in Mos- JEFF BENDREMER cow from 1856-1896. The cup was made in Guess what? Every document, book and 1876 in Moscow according to the assay mark historical item the Jewish Historical Socie- depicting St. George. Its silver purity is 84 ty of Fairfield County preserves once resid- Kolotniki (a unique Russian measure), or ed in somebody’s attic, garage or closet. You 87.5%, a bit less than sterling silver. The as- could have an heirloom in your home…the sayer was Viktor Savinkov (BC). beginning of your own archive. It can begin The second cup is marked with with just one piece. And JHSFC can help Kokoshnick hallmarks (named for the tra- you identify your family treasure. As an ex- ditional headpiece depicted in the assay ample, Elissa Kaplan’s family inherited two mark), established by Tsar Nicholas II and silver Kiddish cups. Not knowing what the used from 1896-1918. It was made by anoth- enigmatic markings on their bases meant, er famous silversmith named Israel Eseevich she asked Jeff Bendremer, an archaeologist Zakhoder (ИEЗ). He was originally active and historian on the JHSFC board. in Moscow but moved to Kiev, Ukraine, in According to Bendremer, “The few 1892 which is where this cup was made. Be- items our ancestors brought with them from cause this type of mark was instituted in ‘the old country’ tells us a lot about their val- 1896 and Zakhoder ended his production ues and priorities. Important in Shabbat in 1907, we can be certain it was made be- and Passover observance, diminutive kid- tween those years. Its silver content is also 84 dush cups might be the only object of value Kolotniki or 87.5% pure silver. portable enough to make the journey. But Your family heirlooms will often come what information can we obtain from the with stories about their history and mean- United Jewish Federation is planning tiny, enigmatic hall marks on the bottom? ing. But sometimes, the items themselves Turns out, a lot!” can tell a compelling story about the past. a trip to Israel in late November 2021. The first cup is marked with the stand- If you have items that you need help ard Russian assay system established by Tsar identifying, please contact The Jewish His- Peter the Great in 1700: a maker’s mark, as- torical Society at (203) 359-2196. Help is Optional extension to the UAE. sayer’s mark, silver standard mark and town just a phone call away! This could be the be- mark. It was made by the famous silversmith, ginning of your archive at home. The trip is being developed around the interests of participants.

Please join us for an informational zoom meeting Sunday morning, June 6th at 10am.

For more information and for the zoom link, contact Diane Sloyer [email protected] | (203) 321-1373, ext 105

MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 INTERNATIONAL NEWS The New Jewish Voice 19 Israel Tops World in Kidney Donations to Strangers Israel has the world’s highest rate of people donating kidneys to strangers. On April 4, the number hit 1,000 … and climbed to 1,003. BY ABIGAIL KLEIN LEICHMAN/ ISRAEL21C As of April 4, the nonprofit organization Matnat Chaim (Gift of Life) has facilitated 1,003 live kidney transplants since 2009 from altruistic donors – people who are not related to their recipients. “We believe Israel has the fourth highest rate of live kidney donations in the world and the highest [per-capita] rate of altruistic kidney donations,” says Judy Singer, assistant di- Rabbi Yeshayahu Heber and his wife, rector of Matnat Chaim (and an altruistic kid- Rachel. She has carried on the work of ney donor herself). Matnat Chaim since her husband’s passing “That figure is somewhat anecdotal bein April 2020. (CREDIT: MATNAT CHAIM) cause in many countries altruistic kidney donation doesn’t exist and in some it’s only beginning to be documented,” Singer tells of donors than any other municipality.” ISRAEL21c. More than 95% of live transplants are suc- “Israeli transplant surgeons go to interna- Altruistic kidney donors and family members participating in the Jerusalem Marathon, 2017. cessful. Some 80% of recipients survive for five tional conferences and tell us their colleagues (CREDIT: MATNAT CHAIM) years and approximately half survive for more from other countries say their numbers don’t than 25 years. come close.” private channels. Matnat Chaim has started using digital media About two-thirds of altruistic donors in Is- China, for example, has about six times as Matnat Chaim was founded by Rabbi to reach the secular population. Though the rael are male; Singer says that’s because Israeli many live kidney transplants as Israel but way Yeshayahu Heber. When he was a dialysis number is still small, the rate of non-religious doctors discourage women from donating un- more than six times the population – 1.4 bil- patient before receiving a kidney donation, donors has more than doubled in that time. til they are finished bearing children. lion compared to 9.2 million. he befriended a young man who died while “We are finding that the more we raise “We believe the distribution will even out The UK, with a population of 60 mil- waiting for a matching donor. awareness in secular communities the more in about a decade because there’s half a gener- lion, recorded 130 altruistic transplants dur- Determined that such a tragedy would not people are becoming interested.” ation of women between 25 and 40 interested ing an eight-year period when Israel’s number happen again, Heber began recruiting volun- “Since Matnat Chaim started operating in donating once they pass their childbearing topped 500. tary kidney donors from his own ultra-Ortho- in 2009, there’s been an almost 400% increase y e ar s .” On April 4, four altruistic kidney trans- dox (haredi) circles to match with potential re- in living kidney transplants in Israel,” Singer During 2020, despite the pandemic, Mat- plants were performed in Israeli hospitals cipients, subject to strict medical protocols. relates. nat Chaim saw a 30% increase in altruistic do- through the efforts of Matnat Chaim, pushing Partly because of this focus, about 90 per- “Interestingly, about 40% of our kidney donations over 2019. Singer says that many peo- the number above 1,000 in 11 years. cent of the altruistic kidney donors in Israel are nors are educators,” says Singer. “More people ple decided to give the gift of life in memory of And that does not include voluntary al- Orthodox or ultra-Orthodox. from small communities than from big cities Rabbi Heber, who died of Covid-19 last April truistic kidney donations arranged through Singer says that in the past three years, donate but Jerusalem has the largest number at age 55. Thirty Second Baggage Disinfection Coming to Airports A new luggage disinfection machine may become part of the biosecurity routine as global travel resumes.

BY ABIGAIL KLEIN LEICHMAN/ prevent future local outbreaks before they be- nearly 39 million flights. baggage handlers is low, but “potential sourc- ISRAEL21C come global pandemics,” he says. “With each passenger carrying one or two es of exposure could include surfaces touched Alongside the x-ray machines that scruti- WarpUV’s AirFort technology was creat- pieces of luggage onto planes annually, air trav- or handled by a person with Covid-19 or by nize our luggage at every airport in the world, ed in-house and tested in Tel Aviv University’s el remains one of the most vulnerable means touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.” we may soon see machines that provide microbial pathogenesis laboratory headed by for spreading airborne infectious diseases,” Fischer notes that baggage handlers at sev- 99.99% disinfection from germs on carry-on Prof. Anat Herskovits. She also serves as War- Fischer says. eral airports became infected with Covid-19, and checked bags. pUV’s head of microbiology. “If you think about the multiple people in some cases forcing shutdowns. Israeli biohazard disinfection startup War- It takes less than 30 seconds for AirFort’s who may touch the same pieces of luggage at “When looking at published data, only pUV plans to start delivering AirFort ma- proprietary 3D array of ultraviolet lights to an airport, just one infected worker or passen- about 80% of infections are from known expo- chines this year to help airports contain the disinfect surface contamination from carry-on ger who handled that bag could spread a virus sure to Covid-19 patients. If 20% of infections spread of bacteria, spores and the viruses that and checked bags, personal items and over- far and wide,” Fischer tells ISRAEL21c. can be prevented using Warp AirFort technol- cause the common cold, seasonal influenza, sized bags and parcels before they enter an air- The US Departments of Homeland Secu- ogy, it’s a major step toward eradicating virus Covid-19 and viruses yet to come. port concourse or the plane’s cargo hold. rity, Transportation, and Health and Human s pre a d .” “Biosecurity has become an urgent and Speed will become essential when the vol- Services issued joint guidelines that categorize “Our plan is to begin deployment in five critical staple of airport security since the Cov- ume of traffic returns to pre-pandemic levels, carry-on items, baggage, and luggage as a bio- airports in 2021 and expand to more airports id-19 containment shut down the vast major- Fischer says, noting that other luggage disin- hazard threat. as quickly as we can build the machines,” says ity of air traffic,” says WarpUV CEO and co- fecting technologies in the pipeline take up to The European Union Aviation Safe- Fischer. founder Amir Fischer, a serial entrepreneur 30 minutes as opposed to 30 seconds. ty Agency (EASA) and the International Air AirFort units will be installed in conjunc- who spent four years in airline and airport se- “And it’s this speed that makes AirFort Transport Association (IATA) have also classi- tion with existing luggage x-ray machines and curity at London Heathrow airport. practical for handling the massive passenger fied these items as a risk of contamination, and on the incoming luggage conveyor and in- “Along with vaccinations and Covid-19 volumes at major airports,” he says. not only related to Covid-19. bound checkpoints. testing, disinfection of passenger luggage can In 2019, 17,500 commercial airports According to the US Centers for Disease ensure a safer air travel experience and help served more than 925 million passengers on Control and Prevention, the general risk to CONTINUED ON PAGE 22 MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 20 The New Jewish Voice INTERNATIONALPJ LIBRARY NEWS PJ Library Corner PJ Ambassadors Host BY SHARON FRANKLIN harvest holiday, today people celebrate the New and exciting things are happening day by studying the Torah (even staying up Bagel Brunches at PJ Library & PJ Our Way in your com- all night!), having a festive meal, hearing United Jewish Federation’s PJ Library Parent Ambassadors Liatte Lasher, Erica Safer and munity, providing more ways for your fam- the story of Ruth, and eating dairy. Try this Mel Vorm invited families outdoors for an early spring bagel brunch and schmooze. ily to share Jewish stories and experiences! easy dairy truffle recipe from The Spruce • UJF’s PJ Library and Bi-Cultural He- Eats website www.spruceeats.com. brew Academy invite you to a “Pre- CHOCOLATE DIPPED OREO TRUFFLES Shavuot Bash” on (DAIRY) Sunday, May 2nd Ingredients: at 10:00am, with • 1 (18-ounce) package Oreos or other crafts, ice cream creme-filled sandwich cookies (30 cookies) truck, and a bub- • 8 ounces cream cheese (softened) ble show. Socially • 2 cups white chocolate (or dark choc- distanced, masked, olate or chocolate chips; chopped) and outdoors. Two • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter shifts to pick from, • Optional: sanding sugar or sprinkles with limited ca- Sharon Franklin pacity. Sign up at Instructions: www.ujf.org/pjbash. Free program for ages Place the cookies in a gallon zip-top bag five and under, siblings welcome. and seal, squeezing out any air. Use a roll- • UJF’s PJ Library & PJ Our Way invite ing pin to crush the cookies into crumb- you to decorate a “Star of Hope” virtually, sized pieces. Place in a large bowl. which will be added to a banner that will With clean hands, a fork, or an electric be hung to add encouragement and cheer mixer, mix the crushed cookies and cream to others. To take part in this project con- cheese until the mixture is well blended. tact [email protected]/203-321-1373 ext.109. Cover the bowl and place in the freezer for (See article on page 21 for more details.) 1 hour. The Reicht/Weinstock and the Lamm families have a chance to meet and enjoy the • PJ Library “Together Experienc- Line a rimmed baking sheet with outdoors at Chestnut Hill Park. es”. Select from one of five virtual experi- parchment paper, then melt the choco- ences, and host two to four families, and late and butter in a microwave, checking of- you can be reimbursed $50. To apply go to ten to make sure it is not overheated; stir https://pjlibrary.org/together. regularly. • Families are eligible to receive “One Remove the cookie mixture from the Book Per Child” Sign up at www.pjlibrary. freezer. With clean, dry hands, break off org and fill out the online form and books small pieces of the mixture and roll into will arrive within several months. For kids 1-inch balls. ages 6 months to 8 years old. Drop a cookie ball into the melted choc- • PJ Our Way offers kids 8 1/2-11 a free olate and use a spoon to roll it until coat- chapter book each month. Tweens can ed. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet choose from a selection of four high-quali- to harden and repeat with the remaining ty titles that have been reviewed by a panel cookie balls. You can decorate with sand- of PJ educators, kids, and parents. To sign ing sugar, sprinkles, or a contrasting flavor up go to www.pjourway.org. of melted chocolate before the chocolate • Grandparents in Stamford, New Ca- coating hardens. naan and Darien can now receive a free After the chocolate hardens, store the subscription of PJ’s PROOF Magazine truffles in an airtight container in the re- Families gathered in a park in Harbor Point to enjoy some mingling and bagels. and 2 free books each year. Sign up at: frigerator for 4 to 5 days or in the freezer www.pjlibrary.org/grandparent-enrollment. for up to 2 months. • UJF’s Grandparents Group presents “The Importance and Im- pact of Passing on Fam- ily Stories,” June 29th at 7pm, featuring Marshall Duke of Emory Uni- versity. The program is open to the entire community and will provide helpful insights for parents with children both young and old, including grandparents. Sign up at www.ujf.org/story. • Shavuot is the He- brew word for “weeks” and refers to the Jew- ish festival marking the giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai, which oc- curs seven weeks after Passover. Originally a Kids connected and enjoyed a bagel at the PJ Library outing in North Stamford. MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 PJ LIBRARY The New Jewish Voice 21 Create Joy With Stars of HOPE Mitzvah Project BY SHARON FRANKLIN home. The stars will also include messages of October, he is helping to organize the pro- United Jewish Federation’s PJ Library and good cheer and hope. Star templates will be duction of the banner. When asked why he PJ Our Way invite area children of all ages to emailed to local PJ Library families, which decided to help with this project, Adam said: participate in a group mitzvah project to cre- can then be printed out or designed digitally. “PJ Library has given me lots of fun books ate a banner of hope. The project is in part- Once a star is completed, it can be returned to enjoy over the years and I wanted to give nership with Stars of HOPE, a non-profit by email, U.S. mail or it can be dropped off back. I like the idea of collaborating with my which empowers people of all ages to trans- in-person (details will be included in the peers and friends to create a Stars of Hope form individuals and communities in need of instructions). banner. The banner will be housed at a local hope through the power of art and messages Be on the lookout in your inboxes for fire station in appreciation for what they give of healing. Once completed, the star-studded the star template and instructions. Complet- to our community." banner will be donated to a local fire station. ed stars will be due by May 17th. The ban- Any child, tween or teen can participate The idea for the banner came about when ner, which is sponsored by the Daniel family in this mitzvah project whether you sub- local Bar Mitzvah boy Adam Daniel and his in honor of Adam’s Bar Mitzvah, will be made scribe to PJ or not. The Stars of HOPE banner mother Julie spoke to UJF Director of Cam- by the Stars of HOPE staff, and then donated project allows a participant to share kindness, paign and Community Engagement, Sharon to the Belltown Fire Station by UJF and the creativity, community, thanks, and healing. Franklin, about a second Bar Mitzvah project Daniel family. Adam chose to support UJF’s For more information or to participate to benefit PJ Library. For this project, Adam PJ Library as his mitzvah project for his up- in this uplifting art project, contact Sharon will collect and organize stars that children coming Bar Mitzvah in June. In addition to Franklin at [email protected] or call 203-321- have decorated in the comfort of their own hosting a PJ Our Way author zoom event last 1373 ext. 109. Adam Daniel PJ Library Gets Baking At Chabad’s Matzah Bakery (Courtesy of UJF) United Jewish Feder- children how to make matzah within the ation’s PJ Library partnered with Chabad of 18 minutes required for Passover and told Stamford for their annual Passover matzah the story of the holiday. The children also bakery on Sunday, March 14th, which was enjoyed music and snacks. The event end- held outdoors at 770 High Ridge Road. Rab- ed with a PJ Library story read by UJF’s PJ bi Moshe and Leah Shemtov taught the Library Director Sharon Franklin.

United Jewish Federation’s PJ Library & PJ Our Way STARS of HOPE Community Mitzvah Project Create a banner that will be donated to a local shelter

Rachel Redlich and her son sample homemade matzah they made at the matzah bakery. Children roll out dough to make matzah.

• Decorate a star and add your own words of hope. • Stars will be collected and added to a community banner - deadline is May 17th. • Participation open to all Teens and Tweens • Share kindness, creativity, community, and healing. Contact Sharon Franklin at [email protected] or go to www.ujf.org/pjhope Thank you to Adam Daniel and his family for sponsoring this project as part of his Bar Mitzvah project. “Pharaoh” shares Passover stories with participants.

MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 22 The New Jewish Voice PJ LIBRARY Passover Comes to PJ Library PJ Library Feature Family: United Jewish Federation’s PJ Library included a matzah mask, a Passover snack, The Azari Family program distributed over 100 complimenta- a toy, crafts, and an activity and blessing ry Passover bags to area children. The bags packet. BY SHARON FRANKLIN Ayala and Shaun Azari moved to Stamford two years ago from Falls Village, Connecticut, a small-town bordering New York and Massa- chusetts. Both are originally from California but met in New York City nearly a decade ago. Ayala and Shaun enjoy living in the suburbs and look forward to nicer weather to spend time outdoors with their baby daughter Eden, and with friends and family. What is your favorite PJ Library book? Our favorite read is Joseph Had a Little Overcoat by Simms Tabback. We love how the book is interactive with cutouts for the chang- ing coat. Our daughter is attracted to the color- ful images and we never get tired of reading her this fun story. Do you have a favorite PJ Library program you have attended? We look forward to participating in PJ Li- brary programs now that the weather is im- Amy Sroka’s son crafts his Elijah cup he proving. We can’t wait to meet all of the new Joanna Lowin Frank and her son receive received in his Passover bag from UJF’s PJ families that have recently moved to Stamford. a UJF PJ Library Passover gift bag. Library. Why is PJ Library important in your Ayala and Shaun Azari with their daughter home? Eden. Reading together is a daily activity so it is amazing to have Jewish-themed stories to before each nap and bedtime. We get to snug- share. gle together in our bedroom and share a book What is your bedtime routine like in (or two) as she winds down. These are the mo- your home? Is a story included? ments we will cherish, and they are made even Our daughter is 8 months old, and we are more meaningful because we are incorporat- creating a routine for her that includes reading ing Jewish stories into her life. PJ Library Families Give Back United Jewish Federation’s PJ Library families donate food for the Schoke Jewish Family Service Passover food drive.

The Lasher girls drop off food in the UJF PJ Library Liz Kitay, a Schoke JFS volunteer, picks up shelf Passover boxes to benefit Rabbi Oren and Chani Zweiter and their family participate in the PJ Library Passover stable kosher Passover food from UJF’s Sharon the Schoke JFS Passover gift bag event. Franklin. food drive.

Thirty Second Baggage Disinfection Coming to Airports

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19 “WarpUV understands the current (SLA) or opt for a Machine as a Ser- two leading industry distributors, War- challenging financial climate in the air vice (MaaS) model in which the airport pUV already has deals underway repre- “The AirFort devices are designed to travel industry, and so we created a busi- is charged a small fee per passenger that senting more than $100 million in reve- meet airports’ passenger flow – inbound ness model that offers two alternatives for could be covered by a ticket surcharge. nue,” he says. and outbound– so we expect there will be the deployment of the devices,” he adds. Fischer reports “a great deal of inter- The company was formed in 2020 by a need for at least double the number of Airports may buy the devices outright est” in the AirFort devices. Fischer along with Eitan Haimovich and x-ray machines in airports,” Fischer says. via a purchase and service level agreement “With access to nearly 100 airports via Gil Luxenbourg. MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 VOICES & VIEWS The New Jewish Voice 23

TEEN VOICES WHY I CARE… How A Leadership Program Changed Focus on: Terry Bernard and Nancy My View On Mental Health Fahey BY NAAMA TEITEL Just like everyone else on the plan- et, the Coronavirus pandemic changed my life in substantial ways last year. While my loved ones and I were so lucky to be healthy, the pandemic kept me from returning to the classroom and seeing my friends. As the summer ap- proached, I had to think out of the box to find something meaningful to do. An administrator at my school suggest- ed that I apply to participate in a summer leadership program for teens run by an organization called Project Proac- tive (PP). She knew I was the incoming co-president of the Mental Health Club at SAR High School (which I attended from freshman to sophomore year) and thought it would be an excellent way to Naama Teitel Terry Bernard Nancy Fahey get more involved in the mental health world. PP is a Jewish-led program con- Often, people don't come forward “Dignity is the ability to stand strong and Here’s why they care: fronting the stigmas surrounding men- about their mental health struggles be- tall in the face of adversity, while being able Describe your involvement with United tal health struggles, especially in the cause of their fears of being judged or be- to bow to the elderly and crawl with the chil- Jewish Federation and how long you have Jewish community. coming outsiders. I strongly encourage dren. Dignity is taking a stand for your be- been associated with the organization? Of course, I jumped at the opportu- each of you to reach out to people in your liefs without losing your mind to anoth- Other than giving over the years, neither nity and applied immediately because community who may be struggling and er’s opinion. Dignity is being an example by of us has been very involved with UJF in the I knew that this was the perfect way to offer a helping hand. You never know how your deeds and through your words, avoid- past. Dignity Grows™ has given us the oppor- hone my leadership skills while focusing much of a difference it may make in their ing gossip, anger and lies. Dignity will man- tunity to learn more about this important or- on something I was so passionate about. mental strength and willingness to get ifest itself in the warmth of your smile, the ganization and work with them to build a During this virtual program, I met other help. Once the conversation begins, filled depth of your love, and the kindness you program which will have a positive impact like-minded teenagers who were equal- with empathy, compassion, and kindness, show to others.” on our community. ly enthusiastic about breaking the mental the shame around mental health strug- -- Mychal Wynn Dignity Grows™ demonstrates one of the health stigma! I also learned about men- gles can start to dissipate. Our commu- many ways Federation supports the commu- tal health first aid and heard from numer- nities will become stronger when we em- EDITED BY JANE LEVENE nity, without regard for ethnicity, religion, or ous guest speakers about their experi- brace each other and build each other up, Terry and Nancy are friends that met dur- sexual orientation. It is a hands-on project ence in the mental health world. After the despite our differences. ing their college years, and since then their that embodies the Jewish values of Tikkun two-week program ended, I had learned Naama Teitel is a junior at Bi-Cultur- friendship has not only remained but grown Olam and Tzedakah. so much about the importance of being al Hebrew Academy in Stamford. She en- stronger. Together, with the support of Unit- Have you been involved with other Jew- more empathetic to the people around us, joys music, fashion, social activism, art, ed Jewish Federation, they launched Stam- ish organizations? especially within our own communities. and spending time with her friends. ford’s chapter of Dignity Grows™. Both wom- Terry: I have been active with many oth- en give credit to another close college friend, er Jewish organizations in various capacities Jessica Zachs, for inspiring them to get in- on an ongoing basis. ADL, AIPAC, Shoah The Importance of Family Stories volved with this initiative. Zachs is the crea- Foundation and United Hatzalah have been CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 the program, guests will have the opportu- tor of Dignity Grows™, which was founded by among my favorite organizations. I am also nity to talk about their own family stories. the Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford's involved with Beit Chaverim and Chabad of pass on a legacy and unite a family. Dur- The program is brought to the commu- Women's Philanthropy. Westport. ing the question-and-answer portion of nity by UJF’s Grandparents Group, whose UJF launched Dignity Grows™ in early Nancy: I am a past member of Temple Si- committee members include Caryn 2021. Volunteers meet once a month to pack nai’s sisterhood. Much of my volunteer work Halbrecht, Meryl Japha, Lorraine tote bags with monthly personal and hygiene has centered around the Stamford public Kweskin, Lynn Lowin, Kathy products for women, girls and individuals schools and Laurel House (a wonderful or- Sosnovich, and Linda Spilka. assigned female at birth, who cannot afford ganization that provides mental health re- Caryn Halbrecht, a local parent them. Totes are delivered to area shelters and sources to individuals and their families). and grandparent, agrees with “the im- social service agencies, including Schoke JFS Why is it important for you to give back portance of passing on values, tradi- and Inspirica. (To find out more informa- in this way? tions and Jewish identity through the tion about the program or to donate, contact Between us we have five daughters, so telling of stories. This program will Diane Sloyer at [email protected]). the idea of supporting women and girls in guide us in effective storytelling and Both Terry and Nancy have been active in need is something we are both passion- demonstrate the impact these stories the Jewish community as well as their great- ate about. Also, during this time of political can have on subsequent generations.” er local community for many years and be- divisiveness, To sign up for this free event go to lieve it is important to give back and do what Dignity Grows™ provides a vehicle for www.ujf.org/story. If you would like they can to help strengthen the organizations bringing the greater community together. more information about the event, they believe in. Terry has lived in Westport We are looking forward to engaging with or if you would like to get involved for 25 years with her husband Russ and their volunteers during our "packing parties" with UJF’s Grandparents Group, three children, ages 28, 26 and 24. Nancy has (when it is safe to do so) and creating a path please contact Sharon Franklin at lived in Stamford for 30 years with her hus- for volunteers, young and old, to work to- [email protected]/203-321-1373 ext. band Kevin and their 3 daughters, ages 26, 23 gether to make our local community even 109. and 20. stronger! MAY 2021 • IYAR - SIVAN 5781 United Jewish Federation The New Jewish Voice 1035 Newfield Ave, Suite 200 Stamford, CT 06905

What aspects of Jewish life do you cherish most—learning, community, worship, caring for those in need or social justice? Whatever you care about most, by leaving a legacy you ensure the things you value are sustained for future generations.

You can help inspire all of our Jewish tomorrows. Contact Lenore Fogel at 203-321-1373 ext. 115 or any of the participating LIFE & LEGACY partners to learn more:

Bi Cultural Hebrew Academy Friendship Circle Temple Sinai Chabad New Canaan Jewish Community Center United Jewish Federation Chabad Stamford Schoke Jewish Family Service Young Israel of Stamford Congregation Agudath Sholom Temple Beth El