An educational presentation on Non-profit Organization 3 palliative care will take place at U.S. POSTAGE PAID Temple Beth El on February 11. Permit # 184 Watertown, NY The National 3 Folksbiene will perform in concert at Temple Beth El on March 19.

Applications for the Jewish Fam- 10 ily Service-Ben and Joan Zinbarg Camp Scholarship Program are now available.

February 2015/Shevat-Adar 5775 a publication of United of Volume 17, Number 1 Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien TBE Scholar in Residence Super Sunday, Rabbi Jeffrey Salkin Super Community Day Two, zero, one, five, hike! It’s time to solicit donations for the 2015 UJF “You will be Shaken and Stirred” to kick-off the 2015 United Jewish campaign. Adults and students who Rabbi Jeffrey Salkin will tion about Israel? How can we Federation’s Better Together Annual volunteer will participate to raise be featured as the scholar in equip our teens to be able to Campaign. And to add to the excite- monies used to strengthen the Jewish residence on the weekend of talk about Israel when they ment of the day, this year’s Super Sun- communities here in Stamford, New February 6-8 at Temple Beth get to college? The talk will day Kickoff on February 1 is actually Canaan and Darien and support El in Stamford. The theme take place during the Kabbalat Super Bowl Sunday. in 79 countries throughout the world for the weekend is “Martini Shabbat service beginning Super Sunday, UJF’s largest fund- and in Israel. Calls will end at approxi- Judaism: You Will Be Shaken at 7 pm. raising phonathon of the year, has mately 4 pm, prior to the actual start and Stirred.” On Saturday, February 7, moved from December to February of the Super Bowl game. On Friday, February 6, the topic will be “What They starting with the 2015 campaign year. In addition to the monies pledged Rabbi Salkin’s topic will be Never Taught Us In Religious The day will be filled with many ac- via the phone on Super Sunday, UJF “Israel Without Apology.” School.” He will discuss some tivities. More than 100 volunteers are tzedakah cans, distributed to the local Among the questions he will Rabbi Jeffrey Salkin of Judaism’s most controver- expected to gather at the Stamford Jewish Day schools, will be collected discuss are: What do we need sial teachings and why they Jewish Community Center to call fam- at the Jewish Community Center. The to know to be able to have a conversa- See “Scholar” on page 4 ily members, friends and neighbors See “Super” on page 6 Israeli-Developed TalkITT Aids “Chapter Two: Women People with Speech Impairments Who Can” By Maayan Jaffe ware, shortly after his grandmother had JNS.org a stroke. He describes her as “the center A New Program from UJF A little boy with autism says “I love of our family” and says it was “painful” to For some, the phrase “Chapter in the Stamford, New Canaan and you” – and you understand it. Your know she wanted to talk, but was being Two” will probably elicit thoughts of Darien communities and educate them grandfather is able to say “congratula- prevented from communicating. the 1970s romantic comedy drama about Federation and our partner agen- tions” when you graduate – despite the Weissberg, who has degrees in civil written by Neil Simon, but at United cies,” said UJF’s incoming Women’s recent stroke he suffered that impaired engineering and computer science Jewish Federation, the title “Chapter Philanthropy President Lorraine Kwe- his speech. That future is almost the and has been working in the hi-tech Two” has a very different meaning. skin. “In addition, another goal of the present thanks to new Israeli-developed industry for more than 15 years, began “Chapter Two: Women Who Can” de- program is to create a unique bond technology that can extract spoken consulting with speech therapists and notes United Jewish Federation’s new between the participants. The program words from the sounds of people with other related experts. Quickly, he real- Women’s Philanthropy program, which is primarily created for women who are speech disabilities. ized the need for TalkITT – given that will begin in March 2015. at a stage in their lives where they are Danny Weissberg in 2012 co-founded as many as 1.5 percent of the world’s “’Chapter Two’ of UJF is designed to looking to grow within the community VoiceITT, maker of the TalkITT soft- See “TalkITT” on page 19 engage women of varying backgrounds See “Women” on page 8 Family Professional Bits & Pieces 6 Candle 6 15 16 Happenings 20 Adult 21 Lighting Central Support for Seniors Education

Fatherhood and Apple Pie More than 30 Bi-Cultural Day School dads met at one of the school’s recent “Dads Drop Off” mornings. Fathers with students in the school get the opportunity to drop off their children at school, walk them into their classrooms and visit their children in their own environment. BCDS dads then get a chance to socialize and have breakfast with each other in an informal and casual setting. Created by BCDS parent Craig Price, Dads Drop Off happens six times throughout the school year. (Photo by Joanne Karow) 2 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ FEBRUARY 2015 FEBRUARY 2015 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 3 Meet UJF’s New President community news By Ellen Weber coming president of UJF, an To Shoshana, Jim, the members of my mind. The placard read, “The Incoming President Ellen organization committed to the 2014 board, committee members value of one’s life is based not on its Weber gave the following address embracing every member of and our professional staff, I thank you duration, but on its donation.” It hit Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene Presents “From Rosenfeld at the Annual Meeting of United our Jewish community. for giving me such a solid platform on me that our value is in what we do Jewish Federation of Greater Over the last two and which to begin my term. for each other, how we give of our Stamford, New Canaan and a half years, significant I’ve taken on this responsibility as time and the financial support we to Robeson” Darien on December 10. changes have been made president of UJF for one reason: I’m provide – all to improve the lives of For me, it all started in 2003 to our Federation, which passionate about our Federation and others. The very next year, once again Tribute Concert in Memory of Hesh Romanowitz z’l when I retired from Verizon will help us better serve the fully believe in its mission. The answer we rode past that same church. This The entire community is invited to the National of revolutionary poets and Holocaust era partisans, Verona, Sicily, Sweden and Norway. after 27 years. I was looking needs of both our local and to “Why Federation?” seems so obvious time, the placard read. “You make a Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene concert, “From Rosenfeld and Broadway favorites. Mlotek is the artistic director of the National Yid- for volunteer opportunities Ellen Weber, international Jewish com- to me! We help people. Together we living by what you get, you make a to Robeson,” starring Elmore James and Zalmen “Hesh loved Yiddish music and culture. He routinely dish Theatre-Folksbeine and an internationally rec- where I could help people lo- UJF president munities. With Shoshana help Jews here and globally. life by what you give.” Mlotek, to be held on Thursday, March 19, at 7:30 encouraged our family and friends to join him in attend- ognized authority on Yiddish folk and theatre music. cally – making a difference in [Dweck] and Jim [Cohen’s] Last month, along with 12 other I fully believe that our lives are made pm, at Temple Beth El in Stamford. The concert ing performances and concerts. Many will recall ‘My Mlotek brought Yiddish-klezmer music to Broadway their lives – and came across an article guidance, our leadership worked tire- representatives from our commu- richer and more meaningful when we is presented free of charge to the community by Yiddishe Chanukah,’ a concert presented by Folksbeine, and off-Broadway stages. His award-winning shows in the Advocate that drew my attention. lessly to design a new structure that, nity, I attended Jewish Federation of give back. I’m excited about the work Stamford’s Holocaust Memorial Committee and the that he arranged to bring to the community, in Decem- include “Those Were the Days,” “The Golden Land” It was about a program comprised of as Shoshana said in her June Town North America’s (JFNA’s) General of Federation and hope to motivate and United Jewish Federation’s Levy Romanowitz fund, ber 2012. On March 19, ‘From Rosenfeld to Robeson’ and “.” He has served as music volunteers reading with students in the Hall Meeting remarks, will ensure Assembly, where I was inspired by a engage Jews in our community to be as a tribute to Dr. Harry S. “Hesh” Romanowitz, z’l. will be presented in tribute to Hesh. The theme of this director for theatrical productions across the U.S. and Stamford elementary schools. Recog- that we meet our recipient agencies’ myriad of presenters. We heard Car- equally excited and involved. Join me The mission of the National Yiddish Theatre particular concert resonated for him. When he saw and has performed in Paris, Amsterdam, Berlin, Krakow, nizing how important reading is to a short-term needs while planning for ole Sebbah, a young French Jewish by becoming ambassadors for UJF. In Folksbiene, now in its 100th season, is to celebrate the heard Elmore James perform in ‘Soul to Soul,’ he was Jerusalem, Tel Aviv and other cities in Europe and student’s future success, I was intrigued the long haul, and will result in a woman, fearful of rising antisemitism doing so, we become ambassadors for Yiddish experience through the performing arts. enthralled and he always considered Israel as well as throughout North America. and decided to join. This program was strong Federation, a strong commu- in France, thank the Jewish Agency the entire Jewish community. “From Rosenfeld to Robeson,” which debuted to be a treasure. I do hope many will join us for what Romanowitz served as chair of the Holocaust Me- Reading Partners under United Jewish nity and a strong campaign into the for helping her make aliyah and find Over the next two years, I’ll be last summer at the Singer festival in Warsaw, Poland, promises to be a remarkable evening,” said Sheila morial Committee for more than a decade. Contribu- Federation of Greater Stamford, New next generation. a home in Israel. We were moved dedicated to working with Federation takes the audience on a musical journey through Romanowitz, who organized the event. tions fund Yiddish cultural activities and Holocaust Canaan and Darien. Jim’s vision of partnership led to the by Oksana Galkevich, a Ukraine na- leadership, our professional staff, our the repertoire of both Morris Rosenfeld, the Yiddish Broadway and international opera star James is education, including subsidies for the March of the A short time after I started, the new UJF motto “Better Together” and tive, who has spent the last 15 years agencies and synagogues to include poet of the sweatshops, and Paul a veteran of five Broadway shows. He sings in nine Living. Morris Glucksman is the current chair of program expanded to include an after- this sense of collective Jewish identity working to revitalize Jewish life in more local Jewish residents in our Robeson, the African American singer, actor and languages and first sang in Yiddish at Town Hall’s the committee. school element and I became the team is what brought us together during the Ukraine as a social worker and now Federation, in ways that are meaning- civil rights activist. “Yiddish in America,” a Gala Concert Celebrating The event is co-sponsored by ADL, Chavurat leader. When the after-school program summer as we prayed for the three as Director of external relations and ful to them. Our job is to welcome, Together, James and Mlotek explore the pathos the Centennial of the Workman’s Circle in New Aytz Chayim, Congregation Agudath Sholom, appeared to be in jeopardy, I met with Israeli students – Naftali Fraenkel, government affairs for the Joint Dis- embrace, and engage all Jews: affiliated, inherent in love ballads, songs of the sweatshop and York City. James has performed at the Metropolitan Jewish Historical Society, Selah, Temple Beth El, Marty Greenberg, then UJF’s CEO, to Gilad Shaer and Eyal Yifrach, and then tribution Committee. unaffiliated, families, singles, married, slavery, and melodies of spirituality, protest and hope. Opera House, Carnegie Hall, Avery Fisher Hall and Temple Sinai, UJA/ JCC Greenwich, UJF of Greater make a pitch to save it. Following my again showed our support for Israel We learned about the incredible men, women, Millennials, Gen X’ers, The concert will include classic Yiddish songs, songs opera houses in Paris, Vienna, Munich, Berlin, Rome, Stamford, New Canaan and Darien, Union Baptist presentation, Marty looked at me and as more than 500 people gathered programs designed to aid American as well as re-introduce those who previ- Church and Young Israel. For further information, said, “Who are you and how can we get jointly as one. Jews conducted by Federations across ously felt dissatisfied or disappointed visit nationalyiddishtheatre.org or call Temple Beth you more involved in Federation?” He The redesign of our governance in- the country. And we were stirred by in Federation. What differentiates all El at 203-322-6901. introduced me to Nancy Mimoun, then cludes an Advisory Council, which will Jerry Silverman, president and CEO of of us is not important, what can bring Carmel Academy Honors Nora Anderson president of Women’s Philanthropy involve the community in addressing JFNA and Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, us together is what matters. and as I quickly learned, one can never current issues and plan for tomorrow. Britain’s former chief rabbi, who each And finally, we must direct our ef- School Celebrates 18 Years say no to Nancy. I joined the Women’s And, increased cooperation with our echoed the power of Federation as it forts to increase our Better Together Carmel Academy announced that it dents on a 17-acre campus that has been Deadlines for Philanthropy Board and before I knew neighboring Federations has resulted “touches more Jewish lives than any annual campaign so that we can dis- will honor Nora Anderson, the school’s accredited with distinction. Nora’s vision, it, I was hooked. Then in 2012, I became in the formation of a joint committee other organization on Earth.” tribute more funds to our partners and longtime head of school, at its annual unwavering commitment to excellence articles its president. and agreement to work collaboratively I envision the next two years as conduct more meaningful programs Erev Tov Celebration. Erev tov, which and her strong leadership skills have put The deadlines for the next three issues of the Volunteering was my entrance to to ensure that we become a more effec- president as an opportunity for us to to serve and unify all of us. A wonder- means good evening in Hebrew, will take Carmel Academy on the map of Jewish day new jewish voice are: Federation and I’m sure that among tive and efficient organization. strengthen our Jewish community and ful example is the recent Tapestry place on Sunday, March 15, at 5:30 pm, school education,” said Carmel Academy Monday, January 26...... March all of you here this evening, there are The Hertzl initiative, as just discussed safeguard its vibrancy for the future. evening. which drew 300 people at Brae Burn Country Club, in Purchase, President Evan Levy. Monday, February 23...... April many equally unique stories. Whether by Shoshana, encourages legacy giving As Rabbi Sacks said, although there together for an evening of education NY. This year’s annual event will mark Anderson’s commitment to a child- Wednesday, March 25...... May th you were raised in a Federation to any Jewish institution in our commu- might be times we disagree, it is our and camaraderie. Carmel Academy’s 18 year. Anderson will centered education, dedication to best- Send New Jewish Voice article submissions to family, were introduced to UJF by a nity for the future of our community. love of the Jewish people that draws I want to thank you, our donors, for be recognized for her “instrumental and practices and her emphasis on professional Sandy Golove at [email protected] marked “Stamford friend, or received services from one And, not the least, the new mecha- us together. “I don’t need you to agree your support and dedication to Federa- transformative work” on behalf of Carmel development have helped shaped Carmel Voice” in the subject line. Expect an acknowledge- with each other,” he said, “I need you tion. Thanks to our board members Academy and her leadership role within Academy into the school it is today. Her of our partner agencies, for Jews in nism added to our “Better Together” Nora Anderson ment; please re-send if you do not receive one. Stamford, New Canaan and Darien, annual Campaign now allows you, our to care about one another.” who are finishing their term and who the educational world. background in mathematics and the sci- there are multiple roads that lead to donors, to specify, if you so desire, the Federations serve as magnets, co- have given so much of their time to “In her 12 years at the helm of Carmel Academy, ences has put Carmel on the forefront of science, Federation’s doors. impact you want to make through your alescing Jewish organizations and syna- this organization. To Jim and our pro- Nora has overseen our school’s growth from a small technology, engineering, arts and mathematics I feel honored and privileged to Federation donation, here at home, in gogues. If we succeed as a Federation, fessional staff, we can’t do any of this community day school on the second floor of a (or STEAM) education. The school’s cutting-edge Moving to Florida? stand before you tonight as the in- Israel and around the world. we all succeed, and the achievements without you – thank you. synagogue to an institution with more than 250 stu- See “Anderson” on page 4 of each of our partners means success Finally, thank you again to for our whole Jewish community. We’re Shoshana Dweck for her leadership connected, tied together. and commitment in taking on an I’d like to relate a short personal enormous challenge two and a half Relieving Suffering story. My husband and I love to bicycle years ago, taking the bull by the and one of our favorite places is on horns and galvanizing us to make Understanding Palliative Care the North Fork of Long Island. While great things happen. The Reyut (friendship) Committee of Temple Beth Rabbi Joshua Hammerman will also be on the panel Brick & Mortar in Hallandale, FL Since 1980 biking there about two years ago, we And as we approach the joyous cel- El will sponsor an educational presentation on pallia- to provide a Jewish perspective on palliative care and passed, ironically, a church with a ebration of Chanukah, I pray that the tive care on Wednesday, February 11, at 7:30 pm, at explain how this type of care is in line with Jewish FURNITURE DESIGN & BUILD large placard on its lawn. Believe it flames of the candles we light together TBE. The guest speakers will be Donna Coletti, M.D., medical ethics. Those attending will learn about the 19 NE 1st Ave., director of palliative care at Greenwich Hospital; goals of palliative care and the speakers will cover or not, at that very moment, I was as a community burn brightly and re- Hallandale Beach, FL 33009 actually thinking about a Women’s main strong for many years to come. Rabbi M. J. Newman, chaplain at Greenwich Hospi- such topics as pain management, lifecycle of illness, Philanthropy issue that had been on Thank you. tal and member of the Palliative Care Committee; end of life ethics and making peace. 954.454.9500 and Roni Lang, clinical social worker at Greenwich Palliative care, a new field of medicine, focuses Hospital and member of the Palliative Committee. See “Suffering” on page 6 wassersfurniture.com

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• State of the art facilities and equipment • • Board certified pediatric dentists & orthodontists • • On-site specialists in cosmetics, gum treatment • IV sedation for high fear & special needs children • orthodontics and dental implants • www.DentalCareStamford.com www.DentalCareKids.com Open 7 Days A Week! 203.883.4457 Call Today for New Patient Special O ers! 1500 Summer St., Stamford, CT ÊVisit www.ujf.org, facebook.com/stamfordFederation, or tweet UJF at ujfstamford 4 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ FEBRUARY 2015 FEBRUARY 2015 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 5 Chevra Kadisha Dinner Dedicated to Rabbi Ehrenkranz z’l UJF Honors its Past, Celebrates its Present Rabbi Yakov Horowitz, the founder said Michael three dozen local of the Grinspoon-Steinhardt Award On December 10, United Jewish the outgoing UJF Executive Committee memories of being fed chicken soup a communitywide dessert reception. and dean of Darchei Noam, Feldstein, who Chevra Kadisha for Excellence in Jewish Education. Federation of Greater Stamford, New and board, including 2013-14 President as a thank you for her work. UJF thanked those who have served on and founder and director of Project is on the Din- volunteers, both The Covenant Foundation awarded Canaan and Darien held its Annual Shoshana Dweck. Attendees voted on and approved the board, and those members who were YES (Youth Enrichment Services), will ner Committee. men and women,” Rabbi Horowitz with its 2008 Covenant Meeting at Temple Beth El in Stam- Lisa Manheim, the 2014 recipient of incoming President Ellen Weber, who incoming and joined the board starting be this year’s featured speaker at the “It’s especially said Feldstein. Award, presented to outstanding Jew- ford. The evening celebrated the many the Harvey A. Peltz Award for Young will serve for two years, as well as the in- January 1. Thank you’s were given also annual Chevra Kadisha Dinner, to be gratifying this Rabbi Horow- ish educators in North America. accomplishments of those who have Leadership, regaled those gathered coming board. The program was capped to those in the Jewish community who held at Congregation Agudath Sholom year to honor the itz is the author of Rabbi Horowitz is also the founder given their time and resources to UJF with stories from her Federation ex- off by a rendition of “Hatikvah” by Beth joined UJF for the Annual Meeting show- on Thursday, February 26, at 6 pm. His memory of Rabbi two books, “Grow- of Project YES, which provides at-risk in 2014. Amongst those honored were periences, dating back to childhood El Cantor Magda Fishman, followed by ing that “we are truly Better Together.” topic will be “How to Make Your Life a Ehrenkranz, and ing with the Par- teens with a big brother and sister Kiddush Hashem.” to welcome Rabbi sha” and “Living teen mentoring program, school This year’s dinner will be dedicated Horowitz to our and Parenting,” and job counseling and placement, to the memory of Rabbi Joseph Ehren- community.” and has produced a parent mentoring program and a kranz, z’l, who was called instrumental “The dinner Rabbi Yakov Rabbi Joseph several parent- program to train educators in clini- in the growth of the Chevra Kadisha recognizes all of Horowitz Ehrenkranz z’l ing audio-visual cally proven methods of reaching of Stamford and worked tirelessly on the Chevra Kadi- materials. He is a out to children at-risk. its behalf while he was alive and living sha members, who selflessly serve our regular contributor to The Jewish Ob- The cost of attending the dinner is in Stamford. community and perform the important server, The Jewish Press, and $36 a person. Sponsorships are also “The annual Chevra Kadisha din- mitzvah of making sure those who , focusing on Torah, educa- available at $180, which entitles one ner is one of the most eagerly awaited pass away are provided a proper Jew- tional and parenting topics. to two dinner reservations and can be community events on the calendar,” ish burial. There are approximately In September 1997, Rabbi Horowitz made in memory of a loved one. founded Yeshiva Darchei Noam in Invitations to the dinner are being Monsey, NY, a school that is noted for mailed in January. Anyone interested Scholar Continued from page 1 its positive and child-centered learn- in attending the dinner should e-mail aren’t spoken more often. The lecture at Temple Beth Am in Bayonne, NJ. ing environment. Rabbi Horowitz was Sandi Waldstreicher at moms4sons@ Harvey A. Peltz Young Leadership Award will take place as part of the morning He has been called one of the most awarded the 2002 Rockland Educa- aol.com. Reservations must be received 2014 winner Lisa Manheim with United L-r: Outgoing UJF President Shoshana Dweck and 2014 Volunteers of the Year: Michael Wirgin, Janet Welkovich, Nancy Schulman, Shabbat worship service, beginning thoughtful Jewish writers and teachers tor of the Year Award, and received by Thursday, February 19, in order to Jewish Federation CEO James Cohen. Jill Kaplan, Robert Hoff, David Fogel, Zeena Hine and Peter Lilienthal. at 9:30 am. of his generation. His work has ap- national recognition as a recipient guarantee a seat at the dinner. Also on February 7, Rabbi Salkin peared in many publications, including will speak on “The Gods Are Broken.” The Wall Street Journal, Reader’s Digest, The legend of Abraham breaking his and the Congressional Record. Rabbi Anderson Continued from page 3 David’s Treasure Tree at Stamford Hospital father’s idols is Judaism’s most famous Salkin is editor of “The Modern Men’s STEAM programs have garnered both past summer, she was appointed to the (non-biblical) story. He will discuss Torah Commentary: New Insights from national and international awards. Board of the Association Women’s Philanthropy and Partners Bring Smiles to Children whether or not Jews still have the Jewish Men on the 54 Weekly Torah Carmel’s Judaic studies department, of Independent Schools, in which she On December 17, members of Stamford Hospital, filling the shelves died of cancer 14 years ago. Robin was so sick. He had been unwell for courage to break contemporary idols. Portions” and author of the bestseller under Anderson’s tutelage, has been serves with school heads from through- Women’s Philanthropy of United Jew- of David’s Treasure Tree closet. and Joseph Kanarek attended the many weeks and it brought joy to us The lecture will take place at the kid- “Putting God on the Guest List: How to the subject of best-practice case studies; out the country. ish Federation of Greater Stamford, Children who are ill and are pa- event and spoke to the more than to see David smiling again.” dush luncheon following the Shabbat Reclaim the Spiritual Meaning of Your and Carmel’s teaching methodology “Her passion for education is New Canaan and Darien, students from tients in Stamford Hospital are given 30 participants, noting, “We got the According to Belinda Foster, Stam- morning worship service, beginning Children’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah.” is used to train Jewish educators from matched by her commitment to tikkun Bi-Cultural Day School and Carmel the opportunity to select a brand idea of providing gifts to pediatric ford Hospital Foundation’s director of approximately noon. Lisa Gittelman Udi commented, all denominations. Her child-centered olam (repairing the world), an unwav- Academy, and representatives from new toy from the closet. David’s patients from when David was treated operations and development, “UJF has On Sunday, February 8, he will speak “You will be shaken and stirred! philosophy led to the start of the ering love of Israel, and a tremendous the Stamford Chapter of Hadassah Treasure Tree was the idea of Robin at Yale Children’s’ Cancer Center been coming to fill the closet for five about “The Gods Are Broken” at a ses- Rabbi Jeff Salkin offers a vision of school’s PALS program for children dedication to her family. Whether it’s delivered toys to the pediatric wing of and Joseph Kanarek, whose son David when he was first diagnosed with years. Each year, there are more toys col- sion open to fifth, sixth and seventh how Judaism can transform your life with language-based learning dis- raising funds for lone soldiers serving leukemia. When he was in dire pain, lected than the year before. Stamford grade students and their parents. The and the world.” abilities. She has worked to promote in the Israel Defense Forces, cooking the nurses took him to their toy closet Hospital thanks UJF, Bi-Cultural Day program will take place during the The community is welcome to all of and encourage ongoing professional homemade dinners for the homeless, to choose any gift he wanted. For a School, Carmel Academy and Hadassah Sunday Religious School session from the services and presentations by Rabbi development for new and seasoned or bringing up five children with her brief period of time, he forgot he See “Treasure” on page 8 9 am- noon. Salkin. The Scholar in Residence pro- teachers alike. husband, Jordan, Nora is a role model Rabbi Joshua Hammerman stated, gram at TBE is sponsored by Penny and In addition to her work at Carmel that Carmel Academy is proud to call “Ever since his book ‘Putting God Michael Horowitz in loving memory of Academy, Anderson has done much to its own!” said Levy. on the Guest List’ changed the way Bessie Silver z’l and Millie Reiss z’l. further the field of Jewish education For more information about Erev we think about bar mitzvahs, Jeffrey For further information on TBE or on behalf of both students and profes- Tov, or to place a commemorative Salkin has had his finger on the pulse its programs, contact Steven Lander, sionals. She is a sought-after speaker journal ad, contact Seth Young, of American Jewry.” executive director, at [email protected] and mentor who has presented at the Carmel Academy’s associate head Rabbi Salkin serves as the rabbi or call 203-322-6901, ext. 304. RAVSAK and PEJE conferences, has of school for institutional advance- served as a mentor in the RAVSAK-AVI ment, at seth.young@carmelacad- CHAI SuLaM program, and is a current emy.com, 203-983-3508 or visit www. mentor with the Day School Leadership carmelacademy.com. Training Institute. Her leadership and Carmel Academy is a recipient agency vision are said to have transcended the of United Jewish Federation of Greater landscape of Jewish education. This Stamford, New Canaan and Darien.

Rhonda Ginsberg, a science teacher at Carmel Academy; students from Bi-Cultural Day School and Carmel Academy; Ellen Weber, UJF president; Joe and Robin Kanarek; and Robert Potash, cousin to the Kanareks.

ÊVisit www.ujf.org, facebook.com/stamfordFederation, or tweet UJF at ujfstamford 6 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ FEBRUARY 2015 FEBRUARY 2015 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 7 bits and pieces A Labor of Love Communities Team Up to By Sandy Golove MAZEL TOV TO: Max Trell, son of Heidi Trell and Charisse Litchman on the loss of her To submit infor- Peggy and Ron Bates and Gail and Jeffrey Trell; grandparents are Gail G. sister, Dr. Beth Deutch. New Translation of Israeli Nobel mation to Bits and Bob Loonin on the marriage of their Trell and Stephen Trell. Stuart Madison on the loss of his Assist Kosher Food Pantry Pieces, call 321- children, Nicole Bates and Jonathan CONDOLENCES TO: mother, Betty Pfeffer. Laureate’s Work By Lydia Fan and Lynn Saltz thing to be a part of helping our kids 1373, ext. 107, or Loonin. Karen Alter-Reid on the loss of her Rachel Maryles on the loss of her Nobel laureate S.Y. Agnon’s gic – even elegiac – for a time This Thanksgiving, children from learn that even though they are young, e-mail me at sandy@ Naomi Hersh and Bernard Shapiro father, Jerome Alter. grandmother, Betty Primis. novella, “Shnei Talmidei Haka- when ‘Torah was beloved by Greenwich and Stamford worked to- they can make an incredible difference ujf.org. on the marriage of their daughter, Re- David Bahar and Shirley Ephraim on Irene Meltzer on the loss of her hamim Shehayu Be’Irenu” Israel and the entire glory gether across communities to create in the lives of others.” MAZEL TOV TO becca Shapiro, to Rabbi Jeremy Ruberg, the loss of their brother, Isaac Bahar. mother, Freida Topf. (“Two Scholars Who Were of a man was Torah, [when] Thanksgiving food baskets for people Leah Shemtov, co-director of Chabad GROWING FAMILIES: son of Miriam Brunn Ruberg and Rabbi Stephanie Benjamin and Evan Ack- Leslie Moskowitz on the loss of her in Our Town”), was recently our town was privileged to experiencing financial difficulties. of Stamford, said, “Our Mitzvah Club Liz and Alex Dancho on the birth Arthur Ruberg of Norfolk, VA. iron on the loss of their father and Su- mother, Jo Ann Weiss. published in English for the be counted among the most Greenwich children in grades kinder- collected food and then partnered with of a son, Maxwell Henry Dancho; Zeena Hine, Robert Hoff, Jill Kaplan, san Joseph on the loss of her longtime Howard and Neil Nusbaum on the first time by Toby Press. The notable towns in the land on garten-two got out their measuring JFS to prepare the Thanksgiving bags. grandparents are Carole Brafman and Peter Lilienthal, Nancy Schulman, Janet companion, Dr. Lowell Ackiron. loss of their mother, Anne Nusbaum. novella was considered one account of its scholars.’ And spoons to create rainbow bean soup What a fun surprise to find one of the Mike Sharpe. Welkovich and Michael Wirgin, recipi- Ilan Cohavi on the loss of his father, Paul Ostriker on the loss of his wife, of Agnon’s most important yet, as the plot unwinds and jars as part of the Sunday Funday items being put in had been prepared Anna and Paul Felix on the birth ents of the UJF Volunteers of the Year Yitzhak Cohavi. Marilyn Ostriker. works that had been previously insults are traded in the beit program at Jewish Community Center by another kids group! We truly felt like of a son. Award at the UJF Annual Meeting. Joel Evans and Eve Evans on the loss Howard Rothman on the loss of his unavailable in English. Paul midrash…[the reader is led] to Greenwich. The jars were donated a community coming together from all Natalie and Jon Gordon on the birth Lisa Manheim, recipient of the Har- of their father, Leo Evans. aunt, Ruth Rothman Wayson. Bashan and Rhonna Rogol, The cover of S.Y. the tragic denouement. And to the Kosher Food Pantry at Jewish sides to do good for others!” of a son; grandparents are Bach-Yen vey A. Peltz Young Leadership Award Miriam Flatow on the loss of her Jonah Schrag and Valerie Warmflash both active in the Stamford Agnon’s novella here we see Agnon’s power as a Family Service of Stamford and were Both the Sunday Funday program and Alan Garner. at the UJF Annual Meeting. mother, Devora Wagenberg. on the loss of their sister-in-law, Janet Jewish community, translated “Two Scholars tragedian on an almost Greek subsequently organized into Thanksgiv- at JCC Greenwich and the Chai 5 Mitz- Leah and Greg Miller on the birth Ilyse and Dean Schuckman on the Carolyn Ginsberg on the loss of her Schrag. the story and prepared the Who Were in Our scale. With his typical irony at ing food baskets by third-sixth-graders vah Club at Chabad of Stamford meet of a daughter; grandparents are Flossy marriage of their daughter, Rachel sister, Roberta Schankle. Rose Stark and Lois and Amy Stark annotations together with the Town and Other work, the narrator pines for an from Chai 5 Mitzvah Club of Chabad monthly to provide hands-on experien- and Sam Fischel, and Charlotte and Schuckman, to Jay Camhi. Jason Gold on the loss of his grand- on the loss of her husband and their volume’s editor, Rabbi Jeffrey Novellas” earlier, more ideal time which House, Stamford. tial learning programs infused with the Alan Miller; great-grandmother is Guta Susan and Len Mark, recipients of father, Joseph Gold. father, Bernard Stark. Saks, director of the ATID turns out to have been rife with Leah Schechter, assistant director of values of giving and doing for others. Fischel. the Humanitarian Award from the Debby Goldberg on the loss of her Bruce Tobin on the loss of his Academy for Torah Initiatives and Direc- flaws and tragic personalities of its own. JCC Greenwich, said, “It is a wonderful See Pantry” on page 14 Lauren (Wexler) Hazony and Dan Israel Cancer Research Fund. brother, Martin Colner. mother, Gloria Tobin. tions in Jerusalem. Their collaboration This draws the reader to question – was Hazony on the birth of a daughter; Mila and Joseph Rubbak upon their Leo Levine on the loss of his wife, Eva Weller on the loss of her father, as translators was initiated by Rogol, it always ever thus?” grandparents are Nurit and Mark Wex- daughter, Tanya Rubbak, becoming Judith Levine. Noe Heitlinger. with the encouragement of Professor Bashan and Rogol presented a ler and Ruth and Yehonathan Hazony an assistant chair for the ComArts at Nehama Aschkenasy of the University of session at Tapestry on November of Newton, MA; great-grandparents are the Otis College of Arts and Design in Connecticut, while they were discussing 22, exploring the story’s tragic plot Debbie and Ben-Zion Soifer. California. New Around Town the story’s talmudic underpinnings and and ironies, and Agnon’s mixture of Judy and Bob Raymond on the birth Neil Ruben and Hilana Lewkowitz- its influence on the Oscar nominated nostalgia and condemnation. They of a grandson. Shpuntoff on their marriage. Cantor Marcia Lane Joins UJF Staff Israeli film “Footnote.” also shared the journey that brought Melissa and Andy Rosen on the birth Sandy and Moshe Speter on the United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Ca- “I’m still amazed that something them to undertaking and completing of a son, Ezra Ian Rosen; grandparents marriage of their son, Joe Speter, to naan and Darien announced the appointment of Cantor that started just for my own personal this project, and the challenges that are Arlene and Carl Rosen. Audrey El-Gamil. Marcia Lane as director of education and engagement. A fulfillment turned into an opportunity Agnon’s translators faced due to the Amanda and Scott Strother on the Sandi Waldstreicher for being Waterbury native, Cantor Lane studied theater at the Cen- to make one of Agnon’s most important richness, nuance and idiosyncrasies of birth of a son, Asher Warren Strother; named a “mover and shaker” of 2014 tral College of Speech and Drama in London, England. stories accessible to English speakers his language. grandparents are Cindy and Steven by the Connecticut Jewish Ledger. She morphed from actor to storyteller, and from there to all over the world. Not only does the Toby Press recently contracted the Warren. Dr. Stuart Waldstreicher for receiv- arts-in-education director. After serving as the assistant di- story immerse the reader in the rich two translators to do an English ren- Shira and Jon Waldstreicher on the ing the Doctor of the Quarter at Stam- rector of education at Carnegie Hall and as the director of European Jewish life that Agnon strove dition of Agnon’s novella “With Our birth of a son; grandparents are Sandi ford Hospital. training for the School Volunteer Program to preserve, but it invites the reader to Young and With Our Old,” a political and Stuart Waldstreicher. Rivkah and Rabbi David Walk on (now Learning Leaders), she entered the world of Jewish examine modern dilemmas through a satire that centers on the activities of A group of children from Chabad Chai Five Mitzvah Club visited Jewish Family Service Rivka and Yosef Wolf on the birth the engagement of Yehudah Walk to not-for-profits as the director of youth volunteer services Cantor Marcia Lane new lens,” said Rogol. the young Zionists in Shibush, the liter- to help organize bags of food to distribute to those in the community who are in need. Top of a daughter. Tiffany Ben Shimol of Be’er Sheva, at DOROT. Inspired by her participation at Congregation As explained by Rabbi Saks, in his ary correlative of Agnon’s hometown row (l-r): Maury Rosenbaum, Chabad of Stamford; Leah Shemtov, Chabad of Stamford Israel. B’nai Jeshurun, she took a single cantorial class at the Academy for Jewish Re- preface, “The narrator waxes nostal- of Buczacz. and Rebekah Kanefsky, JFS case manager. UJF Tribute Cards are a Ellen Weber on her election as UJF ligion. Six years later, she was ordained as a chazzan. She has served as cantor to president. congregations in Torrington, CT; Nyack, NY; Oakhurst, NJ; and Nashville, TN. wonderful way to connect MAZEL TOV TO B’NAI MITZVAH: Cantor Marcia Lane is excited about the projects she’ll be taking on in her with your family and friends Shira Cohen, daughter of Stella and new position: “I will see everyone from preschoolers (PJ Library), to teens and mark any occasion while Isaac Cohen. (Kuriansky Teen Tzedakah Corps), to seniors (Life Enhancement Classes), and Sydney Eben, daughter of Alix and everyone in between! Shabbat Across Stamford, Yom Hashoah, Tapestry. These supporting the extraordinary David Eben; grandparents are Barbara are all programs that I will be helping to make happen!” Cantor Lane can be work of UJF. To send a tribute, and Joseph Field. reached at [email protected] or 203-321-1373, ext. 104. Charlotte Freund, daughter of Cathy go to www.ujf.org. Bernstein and Bud Freund. Sara Gatz, daughter of Marlene and Suffering Continued from page 3 Jeffrey Gatz. on relieving suffering and achieving role of palliative care is to find the Molly Herckis, daughter of Karen the best possible quality of life for pa- right balance between cure and care. candle and Scott Herckis. tients and their families. The expected Care addresses the impact that disease Mitchell Katz, son of Laura and outcome may not be a cure, but relief may have physiologically, psychologi- lighting times David Katz. from distressing symptoms, the easing cally and spiritually. Palliative care is Jan. 23...... 4:42 pm Sophie Kriftcher, daughter of Jean- of pain and enhancing the quality of not about giving up hope or ceasing nie and Brian Kriftcher. life. It is not the equivalent of hospice to find a cure for illness, but about Jan. 30...... 4:50 pm Jessica Olin, daughter of Suzanne care. It can be offered simultaneously embracing life. Feb. 6...... 4:59 pm and Craig Olin. with life-prolonging curative therapies The community is invited to at- Feb. 13...... 5:08 pm Joshua Pickel, son of Elizabeth and for patients living with serious illness. tend the presentation free of charge. Feb. 20...... 5:16 pm Alan Pickel. It can help patients and their families For further information on TBE or Tyler Pomerance, son of Lisa and face difficult choices, assuring that its programs, contact Steven Lander, Feb. 27...... 5:25 pm Mitch Pomerance. comfort will be a priority and values executive director, at [email protected] March 6...... 5:33 pm Kate Rich, daughter of Sarah and and decisions will be respected. The or call 203-322-6901, ext.304. March 13...... 6:40 pm Ronald Rich. Ashley Shapiro, daughter of Tara March 20...... 6:48 pm and Richard Shapiro; grandparents are March 27...... 6:56 pm Donna and Jerome Simon. Super Continued from page 1 April 3...... 7:03 pm Ella Rose Shapiro, daughter of Sha- contents of the cans will be counted and time show will contain some musical April 4...... after 8:04 pm ron and Rony Shapiro; grandparents the class raising the most money will entertainment to wow the crowd. are Phyllis and Martin Shapiro. win a pizza party as an award. Teens are According to Lisa and Jeff Manheim, encouraged to attend the Super Sunday this year’s Super Sunday Co-chairs, “We event as well and will be invited to join are honored to be part of this important friends in the JCC Teen Room where day for UJF and hope that it proves to  Do you LOVE to read? they will make fund-raising calls, while be a great success. Our goal for Super  Do you LOVE to be around children? enjoying pizza and gaining the satisfac- Sunday this year, in addition to being tion of knowing that they are contribut- a significant fund-raiser, is to raise  Are you looking for a WAY to contribute? ing to the Jewish community. awareness of the recipient agencies Just like during the real Super Bowl, UJF supports.” Join our corps of 125 volunteers as a READING PARTNER! everyone will have the opportunity to February 1 is also the JCC Mitzvah Please contact: Marlyn Agatstein, Director of Reading Partners view some unique commercials. As part Day, which provides additional oppor- at [email protected] or 203-321-1373 x115 of the Super Sunday event, recipient tunities to give back to the community. agencies were asked to submit original Mitzvah day, along with a variety of United Jewish Federation 30-60-second commercials highlighting children’s programming, makes Super of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien their organizations. The scheduled Sunday a family-friendly community- B77 TB7G7 “half-time show” will provide an op- wide event. portunity for everyone to view the Those interested in more infor- commercials, vote on their favorites mation or in volunteering on Super so that winners will be identified. And Sunday should contact Avidan Pell the winners will, of course, be provided at 203-321-1373, ext. 112, or avidan@ monetary awards. Additionally, the half- ujf.org. ÊVisit www.ujf.org, facebook.com/stamfordFederation, or tweet UJF at ujfstamford 8 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ FEBRUARY 2015 FEBRUARY 2015 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 9 UJF Kicks Off Super Sunday Season From Civil War to Civil Rights On December 7, the Greater Stamford Jewish community joined together to kick off the United Through Southern Jewish Eyes Jewish Federation’s Super Sunday season at a Tail By Elissa Kaplan the novel also takes readers Augustine and Rebecca Chastain at the multi-state law firm of McGlinchey Gate Event at the Stamford Jewish Community Nationally-known public from the period after the Cottoncrest Plantation in 1893. Sheriff Stafford, PLLC. He leads the firm’s Center. There were activities for the whole family speaker, raconteur and au- Civil War to the 1960s. The Raifer Jackson thinks it was a double appellate practice team. In addition, and the first chili cook-off contest was held. The thor Michael H. Rubin will program, which is free and murder, and Jake Gold is his leading he is an adjunct professor at three of event’s goal was to bring awareness and attention to speak about his first novel, open to the public, will be suspect in the deaths. One of the major Louisiana’s four law schools, where he Super Sunday and the agencies UJF supports. Super a legal thriller named “The held on Sunday, February 22, themes of the story is how Southern teaches courses in ethics, real estate and Sunday will be held this year on February 1 at the Cottoncrest Curse,” as part of at Temple Beth El, 350 Rox- justice was carried out for plantation finance. Rubin has produced many legal Stamford JCC. the Jewish Historical Society bury Rd., Stamford, starting owners and for the descendants of papers, which have been recognized as Families had the opportunity to visit and learn of Fairfield County’s February at 1:30 pm with refreshments slaves. Through the characters, set- authoritative by state and federal courts, about 10 local agencies that UJF supports in the Featured Program. Accord- at 1 pm. tings and plot, Rubin demonstrates and have been used in law schools Greater Stamford area. Attendees were given tailgat- ing to Donna Meredith in her “The Cottoncrest Curse” his knowledge of Louisiana during around the country. He has received Peter Wolly and event Co-chair Lael Shapiro ing scorecards and, after visiting each agency, they review on the Southern Liter- Michael H. Rubin tells the story of Jake Gold, Reconstruction and in the 1960s, con- national awards for his legal writing from could enter a raffle for a chance to win movie tickets ary Review’s website, the novel loosely based on Rubin’s sidered two intense and dramatic eras the Foundation for the Improvement of and popcorn. UJF congratulates Remi Rosenberg for “takes readers on an epic journey from great-grandfather, a Russian immi- of American history. The Chicago Bar Justice and the Burton Foundation. completing his scorecard and winning the raffle. It United Jewish Federation CEO James Cohen and Jewish czarist Russia to post-Reconstruction grant who left home at age 12, came to Association Record states that, “Rubin According to Fred Goldstein, Rubin’s also offers thanks to the State Theater for donating Family Service CEO Matt Greenberg in front of JFS South to Cajun territory in the swamps America and started earning a living as has struck gold in his debut novel.” uncle who is also a Louisiana native now the prize. Other activities included children’s crafts display. of Louisiana and the streets of New York a travelling peddler. The novel opens Rubin, a full-time practicing lawyer, living in Stamford, “Michael is an excellent and games, as well as a competition for prizes in field City and New Orleans.” The action of with the apparent murder-suicide of is one of the managing partners of See “Rights” on page 20 goal kicks and football tire throwing. Jeff Manheim and to the many volunteers who made it A chili cook-off contest provided attendees with a successful and fun-filled day. The community had an the chance to taste area kosher restaurants and interactive opportunity to learn about some of the agen- caterers’ best tailgate fare. Winners were as follows: cies and schools that United Jewish Federation supports Terrorism Experts Address Crowd at UConn-Stamford Best Overall Chili – Main Event; Boldest Flavor – Six and how the community is “Better Together.” Dr. Bruce Hoffman of Georgetown end in failure and frustration. The Thirteen; and Best Non-chili – Navaratna. UJF thanks For more information about UJF or Super Sunday, University and Dr. Michael Rubin of evening culminated in a question- Joseph Craig, Abel Caterers, Beth Torah Caters and or to learn how to volunteer on February 1, contact the American Enterprise Institute ad- and-answer session moderated by Dr. Mike’s Center for also participating. Dana Horowitz at [email protected] or Sharon Franklin dressed a packed auditorium at the Jeremy Pressman, director of Middle In addition, UJF thanks to Lael and Dani Shapiro at [email protected]. Jewish Student Connection fall 2014 Louis J. Kuriansky Annual East Studies and Professor of Political for chairing the event, to Super Sunday Chairs Lisa and Conference, hosted by the Center for Science at UConn. Continued from page 1 Judaic and Middle Eastern Studies at The 2014 Louis J. Kuriansky Annual Women UConn-Stamford. A record crowd of Conference is made possible through and give back at a time when they feel they can most imity to New York City will afford the group the op- nearly 300 people were in attendance the generosity of the Louis J Kuriansky contribute. ‘Chapter Two’ is geared to women who portunities to explore numerous Jewish museums to hear the experts’ lectures on the Foundation. The Center for Judaic and are empty nesters, retirees or generally those who and historically significant Jewish communities in topic of “The Dangerous Neighbor- Middle Eastern Studies is supported by have more flexibility than before – a group that has the surrounding areas. hood of the Middle East.” Hoffman, a donations from the community and is the life experience, time and desire to focus on what As Sari Jaffe said, “We came back from the Septem- leading expert on Al Qaida, discussed a recipient agency of the United Jewish the community needs and the ability to obtain results ber 2014 International Lion of Judah Conference and the reasons for the proliferation of Federation of Greater Stamford, New as effectively as possible.” were very inspired. The nine Stamford participants ISIS, not just in the Middle East, but Canaan and Darien. The program will occur once a month and consist of really bonded. Sue Frieden and I felt that this feeling, in African nations. Rubin, a leading The Center for Middle Eastern and Judaic four agency tours/volunteer projects, four book club sense of involvement, interconnection with a group of expert on Iran, asserted that any Studes at UConn Stamford is a recipient L-r: Ed Backer and Sary Backer, Louis J. Kuriansky Foundation trustees; Dr. Nehama events and four mini-missions throughout the year. women and increased knowledge could be something strategies aimed at mollifying Iran and agency of United Jewish Federation of Greater Aschkenasy, professor and Center director; Dr. Michael Rubin; Dr. Bruce Hoffman; and Co-chaired by Sari Jaffe and Susan Frieden, the that occurs throughout the year in our community other rogue countries would inevitably Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. Dr. Jeremy Pressman. main focus of the program is the volunteering ex- through our Federation. We feel confident that the periences in which women will participate. These “Chapter Two” program will fulfill these goals.” opportunities will be coordinated in conjunction with For more information about the “Chapter Two: the agencies. Women in the group will meet with the Women Who Can” program, contact Avidan Pell at heads of agencies and learn how the agencies benefit 203-321-1373, ext. 112. from a relationship with Federation. The second phase of the program will be a book club event, focused on Jewish-themed books. Hosted in Treasure Continued from page 5 a private home, the more intimate setting is designed for their commitment to this cause. It brings great to encourage greater interaction of the participants. happiness to the children.” Additionally, the goal is to invite the book’s author to The commitment of UJF and the Stamford com- Hayley Levine and Stephanie Bilenker attend as leader and speaker at the event. munity to fill the closet yearly will continue in 2015. The third piece of the program will be mini-mis- The date for the next David’s Treasure Tree event sions to exhibits, museums and places of Jewish is scheduled for Tuesday, December 8, the second importance. The advantage of being in close prox- day of Chanukah.

ÊVisit www.ujf.org, facebook.com/stamfordFederation, or tweet UJF at ujfstamford 10 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ FEBRUARY 2015 FEBRUARY 2015 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 11 Camp Scholarships Available from JFS this Year Tapestry: A Community Celebration of Adult Jewish Learning By Lynn Saltz The Ben and Joan Zinbarg Camp Scholarship recipients, “Thank you ever so much for helping Applications for the Jewish Family Service-Ben Fund, established for this purpose, provides the me return to the greatest place on earth… My camp and Joan Zinbarg Camp Scholarship Program for funding for the program. The Louis J. Kuriansky journey this year helped me become more proud summer 2015 are now available. The deadline for Foundation and the United Jewish Federation of my Jewish heritage. Thank you for all you have completed applications is Friday, March 27. of Stamford, New Canaan and Darien provide done for me.” While there has been some improvement in these assistance as well, all increasing the number of For those interested in applying, your child or economic times, tightened budgets may still dictate scholarships JFS is able to award. Other charitable children must be entering first grade or above families’ priorities, and JFS understands that many individuals, who understand the impact of this Jew- in September 2015, plan to attend a Jewish day households are finding they have only limited funds ish experience, have also contributed to the camp or sleep-away camp, and the family must demon- to send their children to a Jewish summer camp pro- scholarship program. As a result of their generosity, strate financial need. To obtain an application gram. Through the JFS camp scholarship program, more than 50 children were able to attend Jewish for the Jewish Family Service – Ben and Joan financial assistance is available for eligible families summer camp last year. Zinbarg Camp Scholarship Program for the com- from the Greater Stamford, Darien, New Canaan, It is well-documented that attendance at Jewish ing summer, call Maria McNulty in the JFS office Westport, Weston, Wilton and Norwalk area who camps helps to strengthen youngsters’ Jewish identi- at 203-921-4161. All information is kept strictly are searching for Jewish summer experiences for ties and involvement in Jewish communities, now confidential. their children. and into the future. To quote one of JFS’ grateful Anyone wishing to help support the Camp Scholarship Program should contact Matt Green- berg, executive director, at 203-921-4161 or e-mail Rabbi Ron Fish, of Congregation Beth El in Norwalk, taught a class. Wine, Cheese and Chocolate [email protected]. Lynn Saltz is the JFS marketing and communications coordinator. An Enlightening and Enlivening Tu B’Shevat Experience Jewish Family Service is a recipient agency of United Tapestry co-chairs Rhonda Ginsberg (left) and Carol Lilienthal (right), with UJF Education By Rabbi Jay TelRav and Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Vice President Ricky Arbron (center). Cantor Micah Morgovsky Darien. Tu B’Shevat, the 15th of Shevat, is also called “Rosh At left: Cantor Magda Hashanah La’Ilanot,” or the “New Year of the Trees.” Fishman and Cantor Micah This Jewish Arbor Day is named in the Mishnah as Morgovsky at Havdalah. one of the four new years of the Jewish calendar. Originally celebrated as an agricultural festival mark- YLD Sushi Holiday At right: Attendees ing the emergence of spring, today Tu B’Shevat is Jack Goldberg, Debby a celebration commemorated by Jews worldwide as Goldberg and Marsha an environmental holiday with an added element Social Colten. of spiritual awakening. In the 16th century, the mys- By Peter Wolly tical Kabbalists developed a ritual for Tu B’Shevat On December 2, the Young Leadership Division based on the Passover seder. Rabbi Isaac Luria of Rabbi Jay TelRav and Cantor Micah Morgovsky (Photo by of United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, S’fat and his disciples instituted this festive meal in Crane Song Photography) New Canaan and Darien hosted a holiday social event which eating fruits and drinking four cups of wine at Soosh in Stamford. The event was attended by a could bring human beings, and the world, closer to consuming, has its own blessing. Wine is meant to crowd of about 50, who enjoyed sushi, drinks and spiritual perfection. inspire and comfort, to lend dignity and importance the atmosphere at the recently opened kosher sushi This year, inspired by the Kabbalists’ creativity, to an occasion, and to elevate any event to a higher restaurant. The event was co-chaired by YLD board Rabbi Jay TelRav and Cantor Micah Morgovsky of spiritual level. At Temple Sinai’s Tu B’Shevat seder, members Taly Farber and Peter Wolly. Temple Sinai in Stamford have re-envisioned the four varietals of wine will be enjoyed, just as the Devra Jaffe-Berkowitz, a member of the local com- Tu B’Shevat seder for Jews today. On Tuesday, Feb- mystics instructed. munity and the co-chair of National Young Leader- ruary 3, Temple Sinai will host a Wine, Cheese and Similarly, chocolate – the fermented, roasted and ship of The Jewish Federations of North America, Chocolate Tu B’Shevat seder; an event that aims to ground beans of the cacao tree – was believed by spoke to the crowd about her mission experience in bring all in attendance closer to spiritual, as well as the Aztecs to be a gift of Quetzalcoatl, the God of Russia. The event generated a plethora of toys that spirited, perfection. wisdom. Originally prepared as a beverage, chocolate were donated to David’s Treasure Tree toy closet in Why wine, cheese and chocolate? was believed to give the drinker strength. At Temple the pediatric ward at Stamford Hospital. Dr. Kareem Adeeb, of Wine plays an integral role in almost every aspect Sinai’s Tu B’Shevat celebration, chocolate will be en- the American Institute of Jewish life and ritual observance. It is considered joyed as a delicacy and for the sheer pleasure of the for Islamic and Arabic a holy drink – the only liquid drink that, before See “Chocolate” on page 14 Studies, taught “The Need Tapestry Co-chair Adam Batkin with Paula Snyder for Spirituality.” Tapestry participants enjoyed dessert.

SaveSave thethe DateDate March 19, 2015 • 7:30pm The National Yiddish Theatre – Folksbiene presents

Co-chairs Taly Farber and Peter Wolly

Program is Tapestry participants donated food to the kosher food pantry of Jewish Family Service. co-sponsored by L-r: Carol Lilienthal, Johnna Freud and Meryl Gordon. ADL From Rosenfeld to Robeson Chavurat Aytz Chayim starring Elmore James and Zalmen Mlotek Congregation Agudath Sholom Jewish Historical Society After an extraordinary debut at the Singer Festival in Warsaw, Poland, Broadway and international opera star, Elmore James and Artistic Director Selah Ari Yasgur, Jenn Kruzansky and Loren Steinfeldt of the National Yiddish Theater – Folksbeine, Zalmen Mlotek take you Temple Beth El on a musical journey through the repertoire of Paul Robeson, the great Temple Sinai African-American singer, actor and civil-rights activist. UJA/JCC Greenwich Together, they explore the pathos inherent in love ballads, songs of the UJF of Greater Stamford sweatshop and slavery, and melodies of spirituality, protest and hope. Union Baptist Church With inspiring interpretations, this new concert breathes fresh life into Young Israel songs of revolutionary poets and Holocaust-era partisans, classic Yiddish songs and Broadway favorites.

Concert will be held at Temple Beth El, 350 Roxbury Road, Stamford, CT. For more information, visit nationalyiddishtheatre.org or call Temple office at 203.322.6901.

Presented free of charge to the community by the Holocaust Memorial Committee and the UJF Levy Romanowitz fund, as a tribute to Hesh Romanowitz khhz.

Amy Gettler and Devra Jaffe Berkowitz ÊVisit www.ujf.org, facebook.com/stamfordFederation, or tweet UJF at ujfstamford 12 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ FEBRUARY 2015 FEBRUARY 2015 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 13 14 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ FEBRUARY 2015 FEBRUARY 2015 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 15 Curious George Illustrator Delights Gan Yeladim The Gan Yeladim Early Childhood FAMILY CENTRAL Center PTA held a communitywide event on December 11 in which February & March 2015 Curious George illustrator, Mary O’Keefe Young, was welcomed to FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY GRADES K-8 the school. Co-director of Chabad of Stamford, Morah Leah Shemtov, Annual Purim Bash at Chabad House 4th Annual Havdalah & Hoops Tournament at The J read from “Happy Hanukkah, Open to All. Wednesday, Mar. 4 at Chabad House Stamford, 770 High Ridge Rd., Grades 6-12. Saturday, March 7 at 6:30 pm. Father and son 3-on-3 basketball Curious George” (at left) while Young Stamford, CT. Megillah Reading at 6:15pm followed by Purim festivities for the entire tournament. For more information, contact Mo Concepecion at 203-487-0971 or drew George before the children’s very family! Entertainment, music, food and more! Music, dancing, dress up and get a [email protected]. $18 per person. eyes (at right) . After the reading, the prize, special kids megillah reading with interactive additions! Bat Mitzvah Club & BMC Beyond children had an opportunity to ask JCC Purim Carnival For Bat Mitzvah aged girls. Sunday, Feb. 8; Mar 22 from 6:00-7:30 pm at Chabad. Bat Mitz- Young to draw pictures of George and Sunday, Feb. 22 from 1-4pm. Circus performances, games, food and prizes. vah coming up? Caught up with the theme, clothing and party favors but clueless about Chanukah. The evening included Admission is free.Tickets and bracelets available for purchase. Volunteers needed. For the meaning. Do you think a Bat Mitzvah ends or begins with your party? Did you already dinner and time to play and socialize more information, contact Harrison Peck at 203-487-0970 or [email protected]. celebrate your Bat Mitzvah and are wondering “what now?” Then this club is for you! for kids and adults alike. Limmud NY BBYO Friday - Monday, Feb. 13-16 at Stamford Hilton Hotel & Executive Meeting Center. For Grades 8-12. Every 2nd Monday from 7:00-9:00 pm at The J. For further informa- Celebrate the rich diversity of Jewish culture, life and learning through art, music, text tion, please contact BBYO Regional Office (203) 389-2127 or CVR@.org www. study, film, hands-on workshops, performances and more. Programming for the whole cvrbbyo.net. Leviticus AZA (Boys) & Tikvah BBG (Girls). Teens engaged in opportunities family including babysitting and Camp Ramah at Limmud NY. All meals are glatt kosher. for leadership, athletic, social and community service. Community Chanukah Celebration Cantors’ Concert Financial aid and student pricing available. Register now at www.limmudny.org. CKC – Chabad Kids Club On the eve of the sixth night of Chanukah, more Shabbat Across Stamford – community event Grades K-6. Wednesdays, Feb. 4, 11, 25 from 4-6 pm at Chabad. Incorporating POGS, than 650 people from all over Stamford gathered at Bi-Cultural Friday, Mar. 13. Stamford Jewish community will come together at Rippowam Middle Chai 5, Hebrew School and Aleph Bet. Hands on Chesed Club, science and cooking, together at Rippowam Middle School to celebrate On November 20 at Bi-Cultural, students in the School to celebrate Shabbat with prayer, a traditional Shabbat dinner and the weekly Torah Portion, snacks, aleph bet and Hebrew reading, Judaic homework help included – plus one-on-one tutoring option available. Chanukah. The afternoon started off with tables early childhood school enjoyed a three-part cantors’ opportunity to learn with Scholar-in-Residence, Rabbi Joseph Telushkin. Save the date!! of Chanukah crafts, activities, food and games. concert. Cantor Uriel Catton from The Conservative For more information, contact Marcia Lane at (203) 321-1373 ext. 104 or [email protected]. JCC Matzvah Ball ‘Pretty in Pink’ Children from Bi-Cultural Day School and Carmel Synagogue of Westport, Weston and Wilton, Cantor Shabbat Your Way…We’ve got something for everyone Ages 4-10. Saturday, Feb. 7 from 6:30-8 pm at The J. Fathers and daughters will dance Academy performed Chanukah songs, and a short Asa Fradkin from Temple Sholom in Greenwich Friday, Feb. 27 at 6:30pm at Temple Sinai. Come for Shabbat dinner and then decide and play games. For further information, contact Galit Roloff at 203-487-0974 or video featuring the Sara Walker and Gan Yeladim and Cantor Magda Fishman from Temple Beth El among: Neshama Yoga with Jackie Tepper; A Knitters’ Group; A ZenTangle Workshop; [email protected]. . Fee: JCC Members: $36 per couple ($5 each additional child) th and JCC non-members: $45 per couple ($5 each additional child). preschools was shown. The 8 Day Band rounded in Stamford joined Bi-Cultural’s musical director, Hangout time in the youth lounge (if you’re a teen); Watching a kid-friendly movie with out the festivities with a concert that organizers said Jonathan Cahr, to provide a morning of song, dance popcorn (for kids and kids-at-heart); Beer and Darts (seriously!); Shabbat Worship JCC Supper and Song – Purim Party with Amy Rogel “rocked the house, and had old and young literally and musical education. Each cantor showcased their Services. RSVP for dinner to Temple office by Feb. 21. $10.00 per adults (13+); $5.00 per See description under Birth through Preschool. jumping in their seats!” own musical style and explained the meaning behind child (5-12); and children 5 and under are free each selection they performed. Bi-Cultural Day School is a recipient agency of United BIRTH through PRESCHOOL GRADES 9-12 Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and BBYO Darien. Babies and Babble at the JCC For Grades 8-12. Every 2nd Monday from 7:00-9:00 pm at The J. For further Birth – 2 years with parents or caregivers. Monthly playgroup on Fridays from 3:30- information, please contact BBYO Regional Office (203) 389-2127 or [email protected] 4:30pm. To register, call the JCC welcome desk at 203-322-7900. For further information, www.cvrbbyo.net. Leviticus AZA (Boys) & Tikvah BBG (Girls). Teens engaged in contact Galit Roloff at 203-487-0974 or [email protected] or Dana Drazin-Polikoff opportunities for leadership, athletic, social and community service. at [email protected]. Fee: $18 for JCC Members; $25 for non-members. FRIENDSHIP CIRCLE Got Shabbat! Tiny Treasures Mommy & Me For volunteers in Grades 9-12 at Chabad Birth to 30 months). Fridays from Feb. 6 at 10-10:45am at Chabad. Bring your little one • At Home: Every week, pairs of teen volunteers visit special needs children in their to feel, taste, touch, see and experience a hands-on Shabbat celebration. Caregivers homes offering friendship and unconditional support. welcome. Fee: $15 per class (first timers FREE). • Children’s/Teen Circle: 15 Sundays through the year. Volunteer to work with special needs JCC Supper and Song – Purim Party with Amy Rogel children under the guidance of professionals. Activities include art, music, cooking & sports. Kindergarten, first and second grade Bi-Cultural Day School Shmulie Marcus of the 8th Day Band danced with Rabbi Ages 1-8 with parents or caregiver (no charge for children 6 months and younger. • Special Events. Throughout the year for Friendship Circle volunteers and children and students performed. Front row, l-r: Elliot Nerenberg, Eden Moshe Shemtov of Chabad of Stamford and Dovie Wednesday, Feb. 25 from 5:30-6:30pm. Sing along, sup along in a concert tailored to families they support. Cohen, Sarah Peru and Benjamin Winarsky. Zucker. young children. Pizza and a Purim dessert for children and adults. For further informa- For further information: Malya Shmotkin at 203-329-0015 #414, tion, contact Galit Roloff at 203-487-0974 or [email protected]. Fee: $9 per person [email protected] or www.friendshipct.com for JCC Members and $12 per person for non-members (if registered before Feb 18. Jewish Student Connection Cantor Uriel Catton, Cantor Asa Fradkin, Cantor Magda Beginning February 19, $11 for JCC Members and $14 for non-members. For Grades 9 – 12. Tuesdays at 2:15 pm at Stamford High School. or Thursdays at 2:15 Chocolate Continued from page 10 Fishman and Jonathan Cahr performed for the early Movin’ and Groovin’ at the JCC pm at Westhill High School. For further information on either Tuesday or Thursday, taste sensations. Dark and milk chocolate, chocolate to be cheese strainers. Today’s artisans have elevated childhood school at BCDS. (Photo by Dora Salm) 12 – 30 months, with parent or caregiver. Tuesdays through Mar. 24 (no class 2/17) contact [email protected] dipped strawberries and various nuts and dried fruit the craft to such a level that Divinity can be seen in from 10am-10:45am. Children will swing, spin, jump, stretch, leap, roll and climb. BBYO encased in chocolate will reflect the Kabbalists’ use of their creations. Rabbi TelRav and Cantor Morgovsky Rhythm, music and song aid in the development of fine and gross motor skills, listen- For Grades 8-12. Every 2nd Monday from 7:00-9:00 pm at The J. For further fruits with pits and rinds, and serve as a reminder of will use this third element of the triumvirate to com- ing and social skills while playing and learning. Fee: $209 for JCC Members; $253 for information, please contact BBYO Regional Office (203) 389-2127 or [email protected] the kabbalistic spiritual journey through the various plete the Tu B’Shevat seder ritual, including goat’s non-members (11 sessions). www.cvrbbyo.net. Leviticus AZA (Boys) & Tikvah BBG (Girls). Teens engaged in Continued from page 7 levels of Four Worlds Judaism. milk, stinky and wine-soaked cheeses. Pantry Music and Movement opportunities for leadership, athletic, social and community service. And finally, cheese. The earliest evidence of cheese The event is open to the public, but RSVPs are JFS Kosher Food Pantry accepts donations to help For children birth – 30 months. For toddlers. Wednesdays, Feb. 11, 25; Mar 11, 25 from Kuriansky Teen Tzedakah Corps making dates back to 5,500 B.C.E. in Poland, where required. Contact Temple Sinai’s office at 203-322- those who need assistance with food, gas, pharmacy 1:30-2:10pm at Bi-Cultural Day School with Jonathan Cahr and Rachel Bahar. For more For Grade 10. Meets once a month on Sundays: Feb 22; Mar 22 from 6:30 – 8:00 pm shards of pottery pierced with holes are hypothesized 1649 for more information. or supermarket cards. To donate to the Food Pan- information, contact Joanne Karow, 203-329-2186 x1310 or [email protected]. Music, at The J. For further information or to nominate a teen, contact 203-321-1373. Come try, contact Rebekah Kanefsky at 203-921-4161 or movement, nursery rhymes, dramatization and folk song. Join in whenever you can. FREE. together to learn about philanthropy, leadership, the importance of community, and [email protected]. Music Together at the JCC work together to make our community, Israel and the world a better place. The group JCC Greenwich provides programming for chil- Birth - 5 years with parent or caregiver. Music education program that nurtures will create a mission statement and allocate funds to a non-profit of their choosing dren and adults. Families interested in JCC Greenwich children’s natural enthusiasm for music and movement. To register, contact Music based on that mission statement. programs may contact Schechter at 203-552-1818 or Together of Fairfield County at 203-256-1656. Speak Up for Israel [email protected]. For more information, visit Wonderful Ones Sundays, Feb 22; Mar 22 from 5:00 – 7:00 pm at The J. For further information or to jccgreenwich.org. Ages 1-2 years old with parents or caregiver. Thursdays through Apr 2 from 9:15- nominate a teen, contact Or Berger, JCC Israeli Shaliach at 203-487-0961. For grades To learn more about the Chai 5 Mitzvah Club 10:15am at the JCC Sara Walker Nursery School located at Temple Sinai. Led by Sandi 11 and 12. Israel gets a bad rap, especially on college campuses. Join an elite group at Chabad of Stamford, visit chabadstamford.org Waldstreicher. Children get a social, classroom experience including free play, art of high school juniors and seniors and learn from experts in the field, how to respond or contact Shemtov at 203-3CHABAD, ext. 418, or projects, stories, songs; parents benefit from parenting tips and discussions. Fee: $195 and take action. Students enrolled will attend the AIPAC Policy Conference in March. [email protected] for JCC Members; $234 for non-members (13 sessions). Spaces are limited. A partnership between the JCC and UJF. Lydia Fan is the JCC Greenwich communications marketing manager and Lynn Saltz is the JFS marketing SHABBAT and communications coordinator. Jewish Family Service is a recipient agency of United Ruach Services at Temple Sinai Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford New Canaan and Friday, Feb. 20. For further information, contact Temple Sinai office, 203-322-1649. Ruach means spirit. All musical services are energetic & informal. Open to the community. Darien. Tot Shabbat at Temple Sinai Birth – 7 years old Friday, Feb. 13 at 5:00 pm or Saturday, Mar 14 at 9:00 am. Fee: Free. For further information, contact Temple Sinai office. Open to the community. Dancing, singing, praying and playing. Led by Rabbi TelRav and Cantor Morgovsky.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: BI-CULTURAL DAY SCHOOL (BCDS): 2186 High Ridge Road, Stamford • (203) 329-2186 • www.bcds.org CHABAD: 770 High Ridge Rd., Stamford • 203-3-CHABAD #418 • Leah Shemtov: [email protected] • www.chabadhousestamford.org JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER (JCC OR THE J): 1035 Newfield Ave, Stamford • 203-322-7900 • www.stamfordjcc.org JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE (JFS): 733 Summer Street, Stamford • (203) 921-4161 • www.ctjfs.org TEMPLE BETH EL (TBE): 350 Roxbury Road, Stamford • (203) 322-6401 #306 • [email protected] • www.tbe.org Group leaders helped the children prepare the rainbow soup TEMPLE SINAI (TS): 458 Lakeside Drive, Stamford • (203) 322-1649 • www.templesinaistamford.org bean jars at the Greenwich Jewish Community Center Sunday Funday. The jars were donated to the Jewish Family Service UNITED JEWISH FEDERATION OF GREATER STAMFORD, NEW CANAAN AND DARIEN (UJF): 1035 Newfield Ave., Suite 200, Stamford • (203) 321-1373 • www.ujf.org Kosher Food Pantry. 16 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ FEBRUARY 2015 FEBRUARY 2015 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 17 Open for Business Carmel Students Win STEM Competition By Julie Lapin 2000, is an enrichment program devel- in real-time, using the Internet. for their first place finish and all partici- UJF Inaugural Rothschild Event A team of Carmel Academy’s sixth oped in Israel that encourages advanced Carmel Academy’s 14-member sixth pants as they gained both knowledge On December 3, the United Jewish Federation’s to you,” said Janet Welkovich, chair of the event. grade students captured first place in students to use logic, analysis, creativity grade E2K team studied high school and a sense of sportsmanship from this new business affinity group, The Rothschild Society, Based on the success and positive feedback on the a national STEM (Science, Technol- and teamwork to approach math and chemistry concepts to prepare for the exciting and educational venue.” held its premier event. People from all walks of the evening, a future event will be planned for Spring ogy, Engineering, Mathematics) com- science. The Center for Initiatives in contest, which explored the phases of Carmel Academy was one of the first business world met to network, socialize and dine 2015. The Society will continue to provide educa- petition for gifted math and science Jewish Education, which runs the E2K matter and transitions from one phase Jewish day schools in the country to on sushi from Stamford’s newest kosher restaurant, tional, leadership and networking opportunities students. Carmel Academy’s E2K team and other STEM-based programs in to another. Concepts included sublima- implement E2K eight years ago, when it Soosh. Those attending had the opportunity to with the objective of benefitting both the local and answered every question correctly for the United States, organizes national tion (going directly from solid to gas) was invited by CIJE to pilot the program. hear Professor Edi Pinker, of the Yale School of global Jewish communities. the first place trophy. and international virtual contests and deposition (going directly from Carmel Academy has been so successful Management, give a talk on Israeli businesses and The event was sponsored by Nahum Daniels of E2K, the acronym for Excellence throughout the year. Teams compete gas to solid), said Rhonda Ginsberg, with E2K, the school was tapped by CIJE innovative inventions. Nahum Daniels, LLC and by Myrna Sessa of HR Carmel Academy’s E2K Coach and to implement an SET3 Science, Engineer- “It is a wonderful opportunity to meet with other Innovations. To learn more about the Rothschild Middle School science teacher. ing, Teamwork, Technology and Training Jewish business professionals in the Stamford area Society or to get involved, contact Sharon Franklin During the two-hour competition, enrichment program, as well as an eighth and make connections that are usually not available at [email protected] or 203-321-1373, ext. 109. Carnival Theme at the students performed three experi- grade engineering program. ments, observed results and answered “It is our intention to continue to be At right: Miriam Pell, Caren Ferster-Borowski and Christine questions based on the experiments. in the forefront of science, technology, Bloom Bi-Cultural’s 2014 Auction The sixth-graders performed so well that engineering, arts and mathematics On November 16 at Temple Beth ties, Alan Kalter, announcer for the the contest organizers asked them to (STEAM) education,” said Carmel El in Stamford, the Bi-Cultural Day “Late Show with David Letterman,” further explain four of their answers to Academy Head of School Nora An- School community gathered to cel- moderated the live-auction portion the competitor schools, Ginsberg said. derson. “At Carmel, we prepare our ebrate together and raise funds for of the evening, gathering bids and “I am so proud of our E2K students,” students to be leaders in our fast-paced, the school at the annual BCDS Auc- entertaining the crowd. said Ginsberg. “They voluntarily spent 21st century global economy. Starting At left, l-r: Dean Schuckman, tion. With a carnival-inspired theme, Bi-Cultural Day School is a recipient agency much of their free time preparing for from the earliest years, we offer cutting- Sandy Weiner, Nahum the event included games, food and of the United Jewish Federation of Greater the competition, and they did so be- edge curriculum, resources, facilities Daniels and Joe Zalis. entertainment. As part of the activi- Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. cause they were excited to learn. Their and tools so that our students have the enthusiasm is truly contagious.” learning experiences, the critical think- “The CIJE E2K virtual activities foster ing skills and the foundation for future a healthy sense of competition in an success in a competitive world.” exciting and unique way,” said Linda Carmel Academy is a recipient agency Caryn Halbrecht and Michele Piskin Goldberg, the CIJE math and science of United Jewish Federation of Greater coordinator. “We congratulate Carmel Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. February & March 2015 Support for Those in Need JFS DIVORCE & BEREAVEMENT JFS COUNSELING, MEDIATION & CRISIS JFS Bereavement Support Group JFS For Children/ Adolescents Diagnosed With ADD/ADHD Tuesdays at 11 am. Free of charge. For more information, contact Rossmarie Wednesday afternoons. Finding Your Focus with Dr. Lee Combrinck-Graham Delia at 203-921-4161 or [email protected]. Are you searching for a safe haven to MD. Service includes psychiatric evaluation, review of previous evaluations, Auction committee: Jenny Fuchs (Parents Association co-president), Tara Shapiro (Parents explore your thoughts and feelings about grief? JFS provides an environment of family assessment, on-going support, and medication management. Qualifies Association co-president), Maria Reicin (Parents Association co-president), Robyn Winarsky emotional, physical and spiritual support. for insurance reimbursement. For more information, contact Eve Moskowitz (Auction chair) and Eve Nachman (director of development) gathered for a pre-event at 203-9211-4161 or [email protected]. JFS Divorce with Dignity - Avoid Adversarial Dissolution meeting on the night of the Bi-Cultural Day School Auction. (Photos by Lauren Frey) For more information, contact Eve Moskowitz at 203-921-4161 x122 or JFS College Counseling [email protected]. Divorce mediation program at JFS Stamford. Need help navigating the college admission and application process? Qualified, experienced assistance provided by Claire D. Friedlander, JFS Parent Education Program (PEP) College Consultant. Competitive fees. For more information, contact Claire State-mandated workshop for divorcing parents with children at JFS Stamford. Friedlander at (203- 921-4161 or [email protected]. Fee is $125 per person. Call for date and to register at 203-324-3167. JFS Community and Family Mediation Services JFS Focus on K.I.D.S. Use third party mediator to help families/individuals resolve conflict. Nominal Members of Carmel Academy’s sixth grade E2K Team posed with their trophy after winning For divorced or separated parents experiencing high conflict around fees - available on a sliding scale. Resolve conflicts such as unsatisfactory first place in a recent national STEM competition. Bottom row, l-r: Sara Goldstein, Daniel parenting decisions. Teaches both parents strategies for communicating in a purchase or repair, landlord dispute, neighbor conflicts, issues with children, Kesler, Leah Brill, Daniel Mozer, Josh Ament and Noam Schuk. Top row: Rebecca Katz, non-hostile manner. For more information, contact Erika Garcia at marital partners and divorce. For more information, contact Eve Moskowitz at 203-9211-4161 or [email protected]. Ezra Ament, Zachary Sturza, Jadyn Daniel, Hannah MacDonald, Racheli Milichen, (203) 921-4161 or [email protected]. Andrew Finkelstein and Doron Loewenberg. JFS Single Parent Support Group JFS Counseling at JFS Westport, 431 Post Road East. Fee: $10/session or $50/entire 6 sessions. Qualified, licensed professionals provide counseling and psychotherapy to For more information, contact Rebekah Kanefsky at 203-921-4161 or individuals, children, adolescents, families, couples and groups. For emotional [email protected]. Open to all single parents in an environment for support, support while unemployed, see Life Transitions below. Affordable fees, Imagining a World Without friendship and the exchange of parenting techniques. Topics: scheduling, based on income; no one is “turned away”. Insurance accepted. For more coping strategies, introducing new partners, extended family dynamics and information, contact JFS at 203 921-4161. emotional support. Please call or email to register to attend. JFS Individuals/Families in Crisis Hate Comprehensive services. Assistance with basic necessities, housing, medical, social, legal and financial matters. Fees based on ability to pay. For more Local Leaders Honored at Annual ADL information, contact: Rebekah Kanefsky at 203- 921-4161 #128 or rkanefsky@ JFS EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING ctjfs.org. Dinner The Anti-Defamation League hon- New Canaan and Darien. They are also JFS Computer Training Courses JFS Kosher Food Pantry Non-perishable staples for those in need. Donations welcomed. For more ored Carol and Peter Lilienthal at ADL’s on the board of the Jewish Historical Variety of courses - all levels, individuals or small groups. Nominal fee. For Students from the eighth grade class helped with the evening’s activities: Sophie Teitel, information, contact JFS at 203-921-4161. Michal Yaari, Mia Brenner and Isaac Schildkraut. 2014 Daniel R. Ginsberg Humanitarian Society of Fairfield County, members more information, contact Ilene Locker at 203-921-4161 or [email protected]. Award Reception on December 7. of AIPAC and longtime supporters JFS Life Transitions The Lilienthals are both involved of ADL. Additionally, they are both Wednesdays at 11 am. For Information/Register: Rosemarie Delia 203-921-4161 JFS CARING FOR SENIORS in education and outreach for the mentors with the Starfish Connection or [email protected]. Support group for the unemployed at Stamford JFS office. United Jewish Federation of Stamford, Mentoring program. Discuss concerns and issues related to job loss and alternative solutions for JFS Caregiver Support Group career satisfaction. Supported by both JFS Counseling and Employment & at JFS Westport, 431 Post Road E. Fee: $10 per session. An open forum to Training Departments. provide support and help in dealing with the difficulties and stresses of caring for two generations. For more information or to register, contact Eve JFS Seniors2Work Moskowitz at 203-921-4161 or Email: [email protected]. Job Bank for age 50+. Lower Fairfield employers can list full / part time jobs for JFS Counseling At-Home for Seniors dedicated, skilled mature workers. No fees. For more information, contact A therapeutic, counseling program to serve older community members in their Ilene Locker or Jodi Maxner at 203-921-4161 or www.seniors2work.org homes. A skilled social worker will help explore issues, such as adjustments to living independently, improving social interaction, separation from family members and emotional issues. Service can be billed to Medicare. Strictly confidential. For more information, contact Eve Moskowitz at 203- 921-4161 SUPPORT ext. 122 or [email protected] Friendship Circle Program for Adults with Special Needs JFS Home Companions & Certified Nursing Assistants Sunday, Mar. 1 from 1-4 pm at Chabad. To learn more about engaging in the Trained aides assist seniors with daily activities, chores, and socialization. Adult Chapter as a participant or volunteer, please contact Miriam Sperber at Services provided hourly, daily or up to 24/7. For more information, contact [email protected] or 203-329-0015. JFS Home Companion at 203- 921-4161. JFS Residential Cleaning JCC Support for Blind and Visually Impaired Adults Employ professionally trained individuals to clean your home and at the same Thursday, Mar. 19 from 1-2 pm at the Stamford JCC. For more info: Connie time help support Jewish Family Service. Rates lower or competitive than other Honorees Peter and Carol Lilienthal, Senator Richard Blumenthal, Honoree Judith Alter Cirillo Freeman at 203-487-0983 or [email protected]. Guest speaker service providers. For more information, contact Jodi Maxner at 203- 921-4161 on topics relevant to vision loss. JCC Reservations required. Free to all. Jill Kaplan, Sue Yellen and Stacey Essenfeld posed for a picture at one of the carnival- Kallman, ADL Connecticut Regional Director Gary Jones and Karyn Ginsberg Greenwald. or [email protected]. themed photo booths. (Photo by Harold Shapiro) ÊVisit www.ujf.org, facebook.com/stamfordFederation, or tweet UJF at ujfstamford 18 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ FEBRUARY 2015 FEBRUARY 2015 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 19 Chesed Comes Alive at Bi-Cultural Bi-Cultural Offers Adult Education Symposium Series By Dora Salm a project to collect donations for the By Dora Salm cally designed to provide an overview of the history, Chanukah?” Bernstein discussed the unique aspect The age-old adage is that charity be- Friends of the Israel Defense Forces. Bi-Cultural Day School and its faculty are offering laws and philosophic underpinnings of each holiday of lighting the Chanukah menorah in a manner that gins at home. But at Bi-Cultural, chesed “All the money that we collected adults a glimpse inside its Jewish education program included in the series, and that each workshop has is described by the rabbis of the Talmud as “the most happens at school – and it happens on goes for helping Israeli soldiers in through its upcoming faculty-led “Take an Hour “something for everyone.” beautiful way”; and Rabbi David Walk discussed the a daily basis in many ways. their recreation times. Books, games, Symposium Series.” The set of interactive learning “By using a cross section of the faculty each evening, meaning behind the eight-day celebration. The word chesed, translated as “kind- exercising; the soldiers are there to workshops, open to all members of the community, people should really enjoy experiencing the variety Jacqueline Herman, principal and head of school, ness” or “acts of kindness,” is central to protect our homeland and we want to is centered on holidays, having recently launched a of teaching styles, methods and expertise of each of said of the premier event, “The first symposium was tikkun olam (repairing the world) and support them in any way that we can,” Chanukah session and continuing with its upcoming the faculty presenters, first-hand,” he said. a wonderful night of learning. We had more than 50 is an essential guiding principle in Bi- explained Schildkraut. Passover (including a parents’ guide to preparing a Bernstein explained attendees will have the op- attendees and it was incredible to see current parents, Cultural’s educational foundation. Anat Chavkin, FIDF director for the model seder for young children) and Shavuot. portunity to share some of what he most values alumni parents and members of our community com- Rabbi Yehuda Jeiger, coordinator Westchester and Connecticut area, who teacher Rabbi Tzvi Bernstein orga- about BCDS: “The time I spend with my class in the ing together to learn. We are so fortunate to have of Middle School Jewish Life, oversees worked with the Chesed Club, said, “It is nized the series, explaining that each class has a spin vibrant learning environment is such a wonderful such a special faculty who can teach such insightful the school’s Chesed Club, an in-school so powerful to see the students choose for the adult learners: “I was inspired to create this experience. For this program, I want people leaving knowledge and understanding of the holidays.” activity for students in fifth through different organizations to give tzedakah seminar series by personally observing the dynamic each session saying to themselves, ‘I am really glad Upcoming “Take an Hour Symposium Series” eighth grades. The group of more than to; I’m proud of them for caring about interaction between the teachers and the students I came this evening because I learned something I sessions will take place at BCDS at 7 pm on the fol- 20 students meets weekly during their the soldiers.” at Bi-Cultural. I felt that the parent body and the didn’t know about our Jewish tradition.’” lowing days: Monday, March 23 (Passover); Tuesday, lunchtime to discuss ways in which the In addition to their support of Israel, community at large would really enjoy experiencing The first symposium, “Perspectives on Chanukah,” March 24 (“A Parent’s Guide to the Model Seder”); school can become involved in help- students have also reached out to other that same love for teaching that our BCDS students took place on December 11. BCDS faculty presented and Monday, May 11 (Shavuot). All sessions are free ing charitable organizations, either countries around the world, collecting experience every day. There is so much talent here four perspectives on the holiday. Robert Abrams of charge and open to the entire community. through volunteering, donating or shoes for children in Africa and school and being a central place for Jewish learning is a real provided an historic analysis of events that led up to Bi-Cultural Day School is a recipient agency of the United awareness-raising. Jeiger explained that supplies for children in Honduras. service to the whole community.” the Maccabean revolt; Rabbi David Israel presented Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and the students play an active role in setting Josh Warhit, a “lone soldier” of the IDF, is presented a donation check by Bi-Cultural Providing a forum for students to Bernstein explained that each program is specifi- an analysis of the talmudic question, “Why celebrate Darien. goals and choosing which organizations student Isaac Schildkraut. Also in the photo are Rabbi Yehuda Jeiger and Anat Chavkin, achieve chesed and provide for tzedakah is they will coordinate with, gather sup- FIDF director for the Westchester and Connecticut areas. multi-faceted, Rabbi Jeiger explained. plies for or raise funds for. “We do a lot within the school because “All the chesed projects within the unit at Stamford Hospital that pro- explained: “The students’ generosity chesed represents the fiber of the school. Friendship Circle Alumni Gather Together school are student-driven – the students vides gifts to any child admitted to the will support and buy food for the JFS Our year-long theme is respect, and By Jackie Schechter choose where all the effort goes. They hospital and fulfilling the Chanukah Kosher Food Pantry – food which JFS this encompasses what the committee On December 21, more than 40 young adults also contact the right people to make it gift wishes of more than 20 children will then distribute to hungry people is all about. This prepares our students gathered at the Stamford restaurant Six Thirteen happen and really get the ball rolling,” through the Ohel Children’s and in need.” for real life in the Jewish community, to socialize, celebrate Chanukah and give back to Rabbi Jeiger said. Family Services agency. The students Being part of a global Jewish com- where I hope they will continue to do the Friendship Circle, an organization they had all Recent chesed projects have included also helped collect $250 in donations munity, the Chesed Club recognized chesed long after they graduate.” been a part of in high school. collecting and delivering more than for Stamford’s Jewish Family Services, the importance of supporting Israel, Bi-Cultural Day School is a recipient The Friendship Circle is a nationwide organization 100 toys to David’s Treasure Tree toy which was allocated directly for the food especially Israeli soldiers. Eighth- agency of United Jewish Federation of Greater that pairs Jewish teenagers with children with special closet, an organization in the pediatric pantry. Matt Greenberg, CEO of JFS, grader Isaac Schildkraut spearheaded Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. needs, engaging them in holiday celebrations, fun activities and home visits. The recent alumni event was the first of its kind, as the growing organization A Year of Chesed at JCC Nursery School (there are currently 350 high school volunteers in the Stamford area) looks to connect its expanding Friendship Circle Alumni celebrated Chanukah at Six Thirteen. By Luisa Viladas are woven into the preschool curricu- ignated for the non-profit organization alumni base. With the goal of building a caring lum and reinforced in the children’s Wildlife in Crisis, and a total of $434 Alumni enjoyed the food and atmosphere at Six our larger community, for years to come.” Circle, contact [email protected] or call community where young students, par- homes, ultimately becoming a part of was collected. Thirteen. The evening included a short speech by David Wayne, an alumnus and a current board mem- 203-329-0015,ext. 414. ents, teachers and administrators treat their world.” In December, the school’s pre-kin- Raquel Spilka about the importance of giving back ber, shared that he felt invigorated and inspired: “It Writer’s note: As a former Friendship Circle volunteer each other with kindness, the theme “We think of kindness as being dergarten class attended the JCC’s to the Friendship Circle and a video of local special was beautiful to see how much Friendship Circle plays who attended the event, I thought it was wonderful to catch of the year at the JCC Sara Walker equivalent with niceness, but the Chanukah luncheon for senior adults. needs teens completing their bar and bat mitzvah an active role in the lives of past volunteers – whether up with former volunteers and meet others my age who had School is chesed, the Hebrew word for implication of chesed is much greater After the children sang to the seniors, ceremonies with the help of the Friendship Circle. in school or at work. I am truly humbled by the pas- been involved in the organization. Many of them are now loving-kindness. than this,” added Anne Liss Johnson, they stayed for lunch and handed out Fred Springer, the Friendship Circle Board chair and sion that these young adults display as a result of their pursuing careers related to the work they did with special For the past five years, the school has managing director of the school. “It bags of treats. father of two former volunteers, said a few words, and volunteer experiences at the Friendship Circle. It was needs children through the Friendship Circle, a testament to incorporated a different Jewish value is loving-kindness without expecting The children also collected food alumni each received a Friendship Circle travel mug a wonderful evening, infused with Chanukah spirit – a the organization’s impact not only on the families it serves, into its curriculum each year. Chesed anything in return or any strings and other items to donate to the JFS before heading home. Springer said, “This inaugural night that will stay with us for a long time.” but on its volunteers as well. (kindness), kavod (respect), mishpacha attached.” Kosher Food Pantry. Toys for Tots gathering of ‘graduated’ Friendship Circle partici- For more pictures, become friends with Friend- Friendship Circle is a recipient agency of United (family), mitzvah (good deed) and According to Waldstreicher and received a donation of two large pants is a great first step to building a committed ship Circle on Facebook at Friendship Circle Con- Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and ahava (love) are values that have be- Johnson, chesed can take many forms bags of toys donated by students and Hannah Zelazny, a 4-year-old student at the alumni base of support; not only for the FC, but for necticut. For more information on the Friendship Darien. come part of the children’s, teachers’ for children: visiting the sick, collect- their families. JCC Sara Walker Nursery School, learns the and parents’ everyday vocabulary. ing clothes for the poor, feeding the “Parents and teachers hope and meaning of chesed as she and classmates “Children can identify, understand hungry, or just simple acts of going dream that their children will grow make weekly donations to their classroom’s TalkITT Continued from page 1 and relate to these values,” said Sandi out of one’s way to make someone’s up to be kind, caring human be- tzedakah box. population has a speech disability or impairment “We applaud innovative technologies that open Waldstreicher, educational coordina- day special. ings,” Waldstreicher concluded, “but – and decided that with enough innovation, a solu- tor for the JCC Sara Walker Nursery Every Friday, students bring tzedakah children are not born knowing how make the world a better place.” the door for individuals with disabilities to become tion could be created. more of a part of the broader community,” says Renee School. “Learning to be a kind and money to school and add it to a tzedakah to be kind. By providing them with The Jewish Community Center is a “The solutions that exist today, none of them actu- respectful person, helping others, and box. From week to week, the children opportunities to practice chesed and recipient agency of United Jewish Federation Dain – co-founder of the Baltimore Jewish Abilities ally use personal or normal speech,” Weissberg, who Alliance, which promotes the communal inclusion of sharing your life with friends and fam- notice the money increasing. The first by role-modeling kind behaviors, we of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and serves as CEO of Ramat Gan-based VoiceITT in Israel’s ily comes naturally when these values semester of this year, tzedakah was des- can teach children that they can help Darien. people with disabilities – upon learning of VoiceITT. Tel Aviv District, tells JNS.org. “They all bypass speech. “Ultimately, these will change people’s lives.” Some even monitor head and eye movements. But Once Weissberg perfects TalkITT in its current none of them allow people to communicate in the version, he hopes to perfect the solution for other, BCDS Students Donate Funds to JFS Food Pantry most natural way: their voice.” similar users. For example, he envisions that the next The TalkITT software works by creating a diction- version of the software will be able to learn new words ary of sounds and associating them with meaning or The Israeli-developed TalkITT software helps a boy with automatically – the user would have speech patterns words. The user makes a sound and associates it with a speech impairment communicate “I love you.” (Photo that TalkITT picks up on, after which point the software a word on the software. The app recalls the transla- courtesy of VoiceITT) would suggest words (“did you mean X or Y?”) and tion for future conversations. Weissberg equates the remember those words for future conversations. process to how a mother of a child with a speech dis- purchase and equally as challenging to implement. Weissberg also believes that people diagnosed with At left: Jewish Family Service CEO Matt ability will learn to understand her child, associate “The phone makes it so we can do things easily and Greenberg accepted a tzedakah donation degenerative speech disabilities, such as those associ- his or her sounds with meaning and know what he distribute them to the population rather quickly,” says ated with Parkinson’s disease or Amyotrophic lateral from Bi-Cultural Day School middle school or she wants when no one else can do so. Arnheiter, noting that today is “a better time than students, grades five-eight. The contribution sclerosis (ALS), could begin using the software upon “Like the mother that makes that association, so, yesterday” for struggling with a disability. diagnosis. This way, as speech deteriorates, TalkITT will be used to purchase food or gift cards for too, will the software. Once the software learns, then he Arnheiter says that with the increased focus on the JFS Kosher Food Pantry. L-r: Rebekah would be part of the solution at an early stage. “The is now not limited to talking only with his mother. He understanding the brain, the drive to reduce the software could learn and then speak in the speaker’s Kanefsky (JFS); Michal Smart (BCDS); can speak to friends at school, because the software can stigma of some of these challenges, and the dedica- Johnna Freud (JFS); students Mia Brenner, unique, real voice,” Weissberg says. translate what he says for anyone,” says Weissberg. tion to creating new solutions to meet the needs of For now, Weissberg is traveling with his team around Helene Leichter, Maya Weiner, Sidney Due to its functionality, the software would work people with disabilities, “we’ll figure out better ways Steinberg, Sophie Teitel and Michal Yaari; the U.S. to build new partnerships and increase fund- for people who speak any language – English, He- of bridging the gap.” ing. The company recently made a presentation in Matt Greenberg (JFS); and Rabbi Yehuda brew or even the speech pattern of an autistic child Since launching, TalkITT has won many presti- Jeiger (BCDS). For more information about Maryland at the Israel-Adventist mHealth Innovation who has invented his own language (as long as it is gious awards, helping it gain exposure and the fund- Forum, and Weissberg says he or his colleagues are how to donate to the JFS Kosher Food Pantry, consistent). The software app can currently run on ing needed to keep the project going. Most recently, visit www.ctjfs.org or contact Kanefsky willing to attend similar events to share their work. tablets and smartphones. the company, which has offices in Boston, won the Weissberg adds that he has many people working at 203-921-4161 or [email protected]. Matthew Arnheiter – vice president of innovations, Philips Innovation Fellows Competition. TalkITT is Jewish Family Service is a recipient agency or volunteering for him who understand the need for research and development for Netsmart, the country’s currently in the alpha testing phase, partnering with TalkITT due to a personal connection to the issue of United Jewish Federation of Greater longest-standing healthcare information technology hospitals and other medical associations to get access Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. the technology is addressing. “It is a great feeling to company – says mobile healthcare technologies like to voice recordings of people with speech disabili- be a part of something that can really change the TalkITT have burst onto the scene since the iPhone ties and to test them through the system. Next, the lives of so many,” he says. came out in 2007. Before then, many new technolo- technology will enter the beta testing phase, when Maayan Jaffe is an Overland Park, KS-based freelance gies were catered to niche markets, were expensive, or it will give the software back to these hospitals and writer. Reach her at [email protected] or follow her were purpose-built technologies that were difficult to associations and make it available for clinical trials. on Twitter, @MaayanJaffe. ÊVisit www.ujf.org, facebook.com/stamfordFederation, or tweet UJF at ujfstamford 20 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ FEBRUARY 2015 FEBRUARY 2015 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 21 JCC Lecture Will Help Parents Crack Toddler Code The JCC Sara Walker Nurs- children, and how they can shift their perspective Tickets to the lecture are $12 each, or $10 for What’s On for Adults ery School’s #raisingtodayskids to view the world from the child’s point-of-view. She JCC members. Purchase tickets at stamfordjcc. lecture series, for parents and will also discuss how to create clear routines, limits org or call the JCC welcome desk at 203-322- February & March 2015 educators, focuses on issues and boundaries; how to interact in ways that help 7900. For more information, contact Sandi OPEN EVENTS encountered while raising chil- parents through day-to-day struggles; and how to Waldstreicher at 203-322-6541 or swaldstreicher@ 3000 Years of Jewish Music in 3 Hours (3rd in the series) at the JCC Mah Jongg at the J dren in today’s world. The third ensure that toddlers receive the kinds of attention, stamfordjcc.org. Tuesday, February 3 • 11 a.m. $35 for 5 sessions / JCC members $25. Learn to play this classic game from resident Mah Jongg masters. lecture in this year’s series will guidance and interactions they need to develop The Jewish Community Center is a recipient agency of Cantor Marcia Lane, director of education and engagement for UJF, will lead this session for senior All levels welcome. Bring a 2014 National Mah Jongg League card. To register, to schedule lessons or for be held on Thursday, February the skills of resilience, self-reliance, self-regulation, United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan adults on the Americanization of synagogue music, Israeli music, Broadway portrayals of Jewish mu- more information, contact Connie Cirillo Freeman at 203-487-0983 or cfreeman@ stamfordjcc.org. sic, and Sephardic musical styles. To register or for more information, contact Connie Cirillo Freeman 26, at 7:30 pm, at the JCC on empathy and compassion. and Darien. at 203-487-0983 or cfreeman@ stamfordjcc.org. Mah Jongg at Temple Sinai Newfield Avenue. Mondays from 6:30-9pm. FREE but bring your own mah jongg card. For more information or if you “How Toddlers Thrive” will Tovah Klein, Ph.D. Beginners’ Torah Study with Melissa Cohavi are new to mah jongg, call the Temple office at 203-322-1649. Continued from page 9 Fridays from 12:00 – 1:00 pm at Temple Sinai. Fee: Free. Learn about the Torah, its law, its stories be the subject of a presentation Rights and the ancient people. Bring lunch. National Yiddish Theatre – Folksbiene Thursday, March 19 at 7:30 pm at Temple Beth El. For more information, visit by author Tovah Klein, Ph.D. Klein will give parents speaker and a really smart guy. There is history in his note, he composed the music for his wedding in the Being Marc Chagall’s Granddaughter is a Gift and a Burden, Bella Meyer nationalyiddishtheatre.org or call Temple Beth El at (203) 322-6901. the tools they need to enjoy interactions with their lineage. His great-grandfather (my grandfather) founded historic Touro Synagogue in Newport, RI.” Sunday, Mar. 29 at 1:30pm (1pm nosh). Location to be determined. This program is sponsored by the Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield County and is in memory of Edythe Siegel. Neshama Yoga at the JCC toddlers, and at the same time help sow the seeds the Orthodox synagogue in Alexandria in the late 1800s; Those with questions about the program are asked Fridays, Through Mar. 27 (no class 2/13) | from 9:00-10:30am. FEE: $198 JCC members / $231 non- for a lifetime of success. Klein is the author of the his grandfather, a Louisiana legislator, participated in to contact Marcie Schoenfeld at 203-359-9148 or e- Bible Study with Rabbi Eugene Borowitz members (11 sessions). A fusion of Kundalini Yoga and Jewish spiritualityl. Led by Jackie Tepper Robinov. book by the same title, with a foreword by Sarah Huey Long’s impeachment proceedings; and his father mail [email protected]. Saturdays at 9am at Temple Sinai. Fee: Free. Join a special group of people who meet to share in Parenting Conference Jessica Parker. was a federal judge with the Circuit Court of Appeals in The Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield County is a Shabbat and study Torah For parents of all children- babies, toddlers, preschool, elementary and teens. Sunday, Mar. 15 Klein will discuss how parents can understand the New Orleans. His mother was a published writer, so his recipient agency of United Jewish Federation of Greater The Center Women of The J present, ‘What Every Woman Should Know’ from 9:00 to 1:00pm at Chabad House Stamford, 770 High Ridge Rd, Stamford, CT 06905. $36 per often-mystifying aspects of the behavior of young Wednesday, February 25 • 8:30 a.m. person, $54 a couple, $10 per child (full children’s program) $80 max/per family. Join other parents novel is a natural product of his heritage. On a personal Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. A morning of enrichment designed for all women in the community, covering a range of health-relat- to hear from our panel of presenters on topics to help parents gain insight into this awesome “career ed topics of interest to women across all stages of adulthood. No charge. For information, contact path” we all share. Forty five minute sessions by presenters on topics that you want to hear about for Nancy Schiffman at 203-487-0941 or [email protected]. your kids. Health, psychology, nutrition, education PLUS full Brunch and kids programming too. February & March 2015 Cooking Club at Temple Sinai Shabbat Across Stamford Thursday, February 5 at 6:30pm. Fee: $36.00 per session, registration for one session at a time or all Friday night, March 13th, the Stamford Jewish community will come together at Rippowam Middle 4 – payment is due at time of registration.Taught by Chef and Food Writer Ronnie Fein. Maximum: School to celebrate Shabbat with prayer, a traditional Shabbat dinner, and the opportunity to learn 12 people per sessions. Each session will focus on different types of cooking. with Scholar-in-Residence, Rabbi Joseph Telushkin. Save the date!! Happenings for Senior Adults Couples Chef Night - CHOPPED! Shalach Manos Packing Party For couples. Saturday, Feb. 7 at 7pm. Early bird sign up by Jan. 16th- $75 per couple | After early Open to all. Tuesday, Feb. 24 at 7:30pm and Thursday, Feb. 26, 2015 at 9:00am at Chabad House Stamford. The J ( JCC) Social Senior Program bird- $100 per couple. A date like you’ve never experienced! Cooking, wine, judges, prizes! Come and pack Shalach Manos sent to our friends all over Stamford. Be a part of the Purim project- lend a hand! Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays at The J (JCC). For more information or reservation: Connie Cirillo Freeman at 203-487-0983 or [email protected] Crochet at the J Speak Up for Israel for Adults Programs vary by day of the week. All welcome. Transportation available for Stamford residents. Fee: $24 for JCC Members / $30 non-members plus cost of materials (purchased separately. For Monday, Jan. 26 from 7-8:30pm at the J. 8 sessions. Fee: Free – All welcome. Monthly sessions to information on both classes or to register: Connie Cirillo Freeman at 203-487-0983 or learn the history and complexities surrounding Israel, past and present. All levels of knowledge are BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENING. Feb. 3; Mar. 3 [email protected]. Learn how to crochet a scarf or hat in 3 sessions. Taught by Madeline welcome. Hear from guest speakers from AIPAC, ADL and other organizations and engage in deep Field. Limited capacity. meaningful discussions. Led by Or Berger, JCC Israeli Shaliach. JCC program in partnership with UJF. HOLIDAY LUNCHES For further information or to register: Or Berger t 203-487-0961 or [email protected]. • Purim. Tuesday, Mar. 3 from 12 - 1:00pm. Suggested $3.00 donation. Free Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Tu B’Shvat Seder! Tuesday, Feb 3 at 7:00pm at Temple Sinai Torah and Tea at Chabad • Stanley Ferber Memorial Senior Passover Seder. Tuesday, Mar. 31 from 11:30am-1:30pm with Hazzan Sidney Rabinowitz. Free to all seniors Don’t miss our creative and tasty take on the Tu B’Shvat Seder as we celebrate the season with Wine, For Men and Women. Tuesdays from 11 am - 12pm at Chabad Loft Café. Fee: $5.00 per class. For further information: Leah Shemtov at 203-324-2223 or [email protected] HOT KOSHER LUNCH for older adults (60+). Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays from 12-1pm at The J. Suggested donation: $3 for lunch and $1 each Cheese and Chocolate. Space is limited so make sure to RSVP to the temple office today. As always, feel free to call or email Rabbi TelRav or Cantor Morgovsky with any questions. Trip to the Westchester Theatre way for transportation. Reservations are required for both lunch and transportation. Lunch reservations: call Tuesday by noon for Thursday and Friday Games & Gab at the J Thursday, March 19 (matinee performance). Fee: $65.00 (includes lunch). Join The Brandeis lunches. Call Friday by noon for Tuesday lunch. Call every Monday to make/confirm reservations for the week. Cancellations: call as soon as possible. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays, 1 – 3 p.m. FREE. Bring your game of choice - bridge, University Committee and see “Camelot”. Contact Blossom Katz to make reservations at 203-322-4673. Scrabble, canasta and more. For information, contact Connie Cirillo Freeman at 203-487-0983 or JCC MORNING MOVIE MATINEE FOR SENIOR ADULTS ON. Fridays through Mar 27 at 10am. Coffee and a movie on the large screen TV in the Tu B’Shvat Seder [email protected]. All are welcome. What could be better than a Wine, Cheese & Chocolate Tu B’Shvat Seder? Tuesday, Feb. 3 at 7pm. JCC’s Senior Adult Lounge. Free to all seniors. Israel Folk Dancing Fee: Free. Celebrate the season with Wine, Cheese and Chocolate. Space is limited so make sure to Connect with Israel while reaping the mental and physical benefits of dance. Light, Kosher refresh- RSVP to the temple office today at 203-322-1649. Feel free to call or email Rabbi TelRav or Cantor JCC RETIRED MEN’S CLUB. Mondays from 10-11am (members only); invited speaker at 11am (open) at the JCC. Every meeting is followed by ments. For other locations and schedule, go to www.ctisraelidance.com. Morgovsky with any questions. a soup-and-sandwich lunch and a bridge game after the meal. Reservations required. Lunch Fee: $3 suggested donation. For information Israel Lunch & Learn Series at the J UConn Judaic Studies: To register for the 2014 Lunch & Learn Lecture Series, the annual or to make a reservation: Connie Cirillo Freeman [email protected] or at 203-487-0983. Speaker and kosher lunch. Bridge game after First Thursday of each month: Feb. 5; Mar. 5 from 12-1 pm at the J. Fee: FREE. Join Or Berger, the JCC’s Is- conference, or for more information about these or other programs of the Center for Judaic & Middle lunch. All welcome. raeli shaliach, for a lunch and learn series focusing on interesting topics and current events related to Israel. Eastern Studies, please contact the Center at [email protected] or (203) 251-9525. Sessions will include time for questions and answers often short videos. Bring lunch. JCC will provide dairy LET’S TALK. Thursdays, 11am-Noon. Feb 12, 19, 26; Mar 12, 19, 26 at the JCC. Free (6 sessions). For information or to make a reservation: dessert. For further information or to regtister: Or Berger t 203-487-0961 or [email protected]. Connie Cirillo Freeman at [email protected] or at 203-487-0983. Engage in meaningful conversation about a wide variety of topics JCC Annual Spring Gala, ‘A Night of Amazement’ FOR WOMEN Sunday, Mar. 8 at 6pm at Rockrimmon Country Club. The JCC’s major fundraiser of the year will that may range from how to live a fulfilling life, creating healthy relationships, savoring our cherished memories, to embracing changing life circum- recognize community leaders Sue McGraw, Garry Feldman, Craig L. Price and Jeannie Kasindorf. The Hadassah Book Club - February stances. All will be encouraged to express their feelings and experiences related to the themes that emerge in a safe and supportive environment. evening will include dinner, entertainment and a commemorative journal. For more information, visit Wed., Dec. 10 at 7:15pm. Location TBD. “Human right day selection – The Sandcastle Girls” by Chris Led by a facilitator tor from Jewish Family Services. Limited capacity. stamfordjcc.org or contact Shannon Jacobs at 203-487-0965 or [email protected]. Bohjalian. For further information or RSVP: Rhonda Greif at [email protected] or 203-829-9341. #raisingtodayskids: ‘How Toddlers Thrive,’ lecture by Tovah Klein, Ph.D. Hadassah Book Club - March LIFE ENHANCEMENT CLASSES. Tuesdays & Thursdays through Mar 26 from 11-11:45am. Classes designed to entertain, educate and enrich. Thursday, February 26 • 7:30 p.m. at The J. Author Tovah Klein will discuss the tools parents need to Wednesday, Jan. 21 at 7:15pm. Location TBE. | LOCATION: TBD. “My Father’s Paradise: A Son’s • Aging Gracefully. Common-age related health issues with practical advice on how to support each other in aging gracefully enjoy their interactions with their toddlers, and at the same time sow the seeds for a lifetime of success. Search for His Family’s Past” by Ariel Sabar. For further information or RSVP: Rhonda Greif at For information, contact Sandi Waldstreicher at 203-322-6541 or [email protected]. [email protected] or 203-829-9341. • Current Events and Timely Topics. Informal conversations and talks with various speakers about what’s going on in Stamford, as well as national Jewish Historical Society: Book Talks, February - An Officer and a Spy by Robert Harris Pesach Preparedness and international events and timely topics. Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 10:30am at the JCC. Fee: Free. Presenter: Peter Lilienthal. A fictional account For Women. Monday, Mar 16 at the home of Rachel Maryles. 7:15pm (mingle, meet and nibble); • Our Stories on Thursdays. Hear one-of-a-kind stories about the lives, experiences, occupations or pastimes of JCC senior program participants. of the Dreyfus Affair of 1895, portraying this historical conspiracy with all its intrigue and infamy. For 8pm (programs); JWC Members Free / Non Members $15. Join us for an evening that will set you on the path for Perfect Pesach Preparedness- on every level, physical and spiritual (& emotional) Free to all seniors. further information, contact Marcie (203) 359-9148. Jewish Historical Society: Book Talks, March - Suddenly, Love by Aharon Appelfeld • Seniors in Song. Sing along with old favorites, Yiddish to Broadway Wednesday, Mar. 18 at 10:30am at the JCC. Fee: Free. Presenter: Bob Abrams. Set in Israel, this is a MONTHLY BIRTHDAY LUNCHEONS. Tuesdays, Feb 24; Mar 24 from 12-1pm. $3 suggested donation. Reservations required. novel of two lonely people who come together amidst memories of their pasts and the challenges of the present. For further information, contact Marcie (203) 359-9148. FOR MEN SHABBAT WITH OR BERGER – JCC ISRAELI SHALIACH Jewish Historical Society February Program: “The Cottoncrest Curse: From the Tefillin Club Fridays from 11:30 am-12 pm at the Stamford JCC. Discussions on Israel prior to Shabbat lunch Civil War to Civil Rights through Southern Jewish Eyes” Every Sunday from 8-9am at Chabad. For men and kids. Join the guys to wrap Tefillin, say Shema, Sunday, February 22 at 1:30pm (1pm nosh) at Temple Beth El. Fee: Free. share some words of Torah and inspiration and bond over bagels and lox breakfast. Jewish Historical Society March Program: From Rosenfeld to Robeson, Men’s Night Out Pizza & Bowling Adult Volunteer Opportunities The Folksbeine Yiddish Theater For Men. Thursday, Mar. 19 at 8pm at BowlMor Lanes (Old Rip Van Winkle lanes), Norwalk JCC (The J) Jewish Community Center Thursday, Mar. 19 at 7:00 at Temple Beth El. Refreshments to follow. Kosher Lunch Program for Seniors. Help set up and serve HOT Kosher lunch to seniors. Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays at the JCC. For more Jewish Values: Where the Rubber Hits the Road information or reservation: Connie Cirillo Freeman at 203-487-0983 or [email protected] Sundays, Mar. 8, 22, 29; Apr. 5 from 9:45-11am. Fee: Free. Taught by Rabbi Jay TelRav. Judaism teaches ADULT VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES us to “Honor our Father and Mother” but what about when they are abusive? Everybody cheats on JFS (Jewish Family Service) JCC (The J) Jewish Community Center their taxes, don’t they? Those little soap bars are mine to take home from the hotel, aren’t they? From Kosher Lunch Program for Seniors. Help set up and serve HOT Kosher lunch to seniors. Drivers needed to deliver food from the Kosher Food Pantry to individuals in the community. For information: Rebekah Kanefsky at the profound to the mundane, life presents choices every day. Torah tells us to “do good” but it isn’t al- Tuesdays, Thursdays & Fridays at the JCC. For more information or reservation: Connie Cirillo Free- 203-921-4161 or [email protected] ways so clear what that means. We’ll use real-world examples to examine what our tradition has to say. man at 203-487-0983 or [email protected] Judaic Needlework: The Kesher Chapter of the Pomegranate Guild of Judaic Needlework JHS (Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield County JFS (Jewish Family Service) Sundays, February 8 and March 8 • 10 a.m. – 12 p.m at the J. Drivers needed to deliver food from the Kosher Food Pantry to individuals in the community. • Harry Rosenbaum Judaica Library. At the JCC. Cover 2 hour slot (or more) once a week. You’ll be trained on the computer system and the When members of the Pomegranate Guild sit down to stitch, they are reviving Jewish traditions For information: Rebekah Kanefsky at 203-921-4161 or [email protected] through their work with textiles. Meetings are a rich blend of needlework, culture, tradition and arrangement of books in the library. Call 203-487-0957. religious practices as they relate to Judaic textiles. In the Jewish tradition, an item created by an JHS (Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield County • Help protect the pieces of our Jewish history: Do you enjoy finding out about our region’s early Jewish settlers? Do you want to help Jewish unrecognized stitcher is as esteemed as one created by a master artisan. The Guild recognizes this • Harry Rosenbaum Judaica Library. At the JCC. Cover 2 hour slot (or more) once a week. You’ll be tradition and encourages membership, beginner and professional, women and men alike. For more trained on the computer system and the arrangement of books in the library. Call 203-487-0957. organizations retain their history and documents? Call 203-359-2196. information, please email [email protected] or visit pomegranateguild.org. • Help protect the pieces of our Jewish history: Do you enjoy finding out about our region’s early Jewish UJF’s Reading Partners Monthly Lunch and Learn at Chabad settlers? Do you want to help Jewish organizations retain their history and documents? Call 203-359-2196. Read one-on-one with Stamford public school children. One hour a week, mornings or afternoons. 11 elementary schools and 2 community centers. Open for Men and Women. Wednesdays, February 25 2015, 11:30-12:45pm. $10 per class. A special UJF’s Reading Partners Wednesday Lunch and Learn class that will meet monthly in the conference room at Chabad House Read one-on-one with Stamford public school children. One hour a week, mornings or afternoons. Training, literacy focused workshops and support network provided. Contact Marlyn Agatstein 203-321-1373 x115 or [email protected]. Stamford. Join us for a great fresh lunch, friends- new and old, and of course some Torah learning 11 elementary schools and 2 community centers. Training, literacy focused workshops and support together with Leah Shemtov. network provided. Contact Marlyn Agatstein 203-321-1373 x115 or [email protected]. FOR MORE INFORMATION / ADDRESSES: BI-CULTURAL DAY SCHOOL (BCDS): 2186 High Ridge Road, Stamford • (203)329-2186 • www.bcds.org FOR MORE INFORMATION / ADDRESSES: BI-CULTURAL DAY SCHOOL (BCDS): 2186 High Ridge Road, Stamford • (203) 329-2186 • www.bcds.org CHABAD: 770 High Ridge Road, Stamford • (203)3-CHABAD #418 • Leah Shemtov: [email protected] • www.chabadhousestamford.org CHABAD: 770 High Ridge Road, Stamford • 203-3-CHABAD #418 • Leah Shemtov: [email protected] • www.chabadhousestamford.org JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER (JCC OR THE J): 1035 Newfield Ave, Stamford • (203)322-7900 • www.stamfordjcc.org JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER (JCC OR THE J): 1035 Newfield Ave, Stamford • 203-322-7900 • www.stamfordjcc.org JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE (JFS): 733 Summer Street, Stamford • (203)921-4161 • www.ctjfs.org JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE (JFS): 733 Summer Street, Stamford • (203) 921-4161 • www.ctjfs.org TEMPLE BETH EL (TBE): 350 Roxbury Road, Stamford • (203)322-6401 #306 • [email protected] • www.tbe.org TEMPLE BETH EL (TBE): 350 Roxbury Road, Stamford • (203) 322-6401 #306 • [email protected] • www.tbe.org TEMPLE SINAI (TS): 458 Lakeside Drive, Stamford • (203)322-1649 • www.templesinaistamford.org TEMPLE SINAI (TS): 458 Lakeside Drive, Stamford • (203) 322-1649 • www.templesinaistamford.org UNITED JEWISH FEDERATION OF GREATER STAMFORD, NEW CANAAN AND DARIEN (UJF): 1035 Newfield Ave., Suite 200, Stamford • (203)321-1373 • www.ujf.org UNITED JEWISH FEDERATION OF GREATER STAMFORD, NEW CANAAN AND DARIEN (UJF): 1035 Newfield Avenue, Suite 200, Stamford • (203) 321-1373 • www.ujf.org 22 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ FEBRUARY 2015 FEBRUARY 2015 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 23 Couples Cooking Night – “Chopped” JCC Matzah Ball will be “Pretty in Hollywood Theme at JCC Purim Israelis Work to Transform Negev Desert Through Chabad House Stamford will host a Couples Cook- Pink” Carnival ing Night – “Chopped,” on Saturday, February 7, at The JCC’s Matzah Ball father-daughter dance returns Kids and grownups of all ages are invited to come 7:15 pm, based on the “Chopped” cooking show. this year, with the theme “Pretty in Pink.” Girls ages 4-12 to the Jewish Community Center’s 23rd Annual Pu- Farming Couples will have to cook a meal together, regardless and their fathers, or other special men in their lives, are rim Carnival on Sunday, February 22, from 1-4 pm. By Maayan Jaffe Aschendorf – is part of the area’s in- of their cooking experience, and will have the op- invited to attend the event, which will be held on Saturday, The event will be held indoors at the JCC, located JNS.org novative spirit, aiming to encourage portunity to get assistance from the panel of “judges” February 7, from 6:30-8 pm, at the Stamford JCC. at the intersection of Newfield Avenue and Vine In southern Israel, the next genera- young entrepreneurs who are looking – a rabbi, a psychologist and a chef – as the round “This is a special night, celebrating the bond between Road in Stamford. tion of Jewish pioneers is making the to make a future working the land to progresses and the meals become more advanced. fathers and daughters,” said Galit Roloff, assistant direc- Those attending will walk down the red carpet desert bloom. stay and invest in their own farms in The idea of the evening was brought to Leah Sh- tor of KidsPlace at the JCC. “Guests enjoy music, danc- when the JCC is transformed into a Hollywood- A group of young, Zionist, idealistic the Negev. emtov by someone in the community who wanted to ing, treats, fun and games. It’s a wonderful chance for themed carnival, with arcade games and attractions, a adults are cultivating a previously un- The area, however, is desert. In spend time with their spouse. Shemtov said the event the girls to get dressed up and dance the night away.” photo booth and prizes. For younger children, there inhabited area in the northwest Negev fact, the Negev is so dry that in 2001, will highlight the importance of couples, whether The cost is $45 per “couple” and $5 per additional will be inflatables, crafts and more. on Israel’s borders with Egypt and when former Prime Minister Ehud At right: Nava Uner married or not, newly married or married several child ($36 per “couple” and $5 per additional child Hamantashen and other treats, as well as lunch and Gaza – growing tomatoes, potatoes, Barak offered Yasser Arafat the area works in Bnei Netzarim, years, to spend time together. for JCC members). Festive dress is suggested. Com- other refreshments, will be available for purchase. lettuce, cauliflower, pomegranates, as part of a land-for-peace deal, Arafat one of three Halutza The cost to attend the event is $100 per couple memorative photos will be taken. Admission will be free. Tickets and bracelets may be olives and more. turned it down over his concern that (pioneer) communities and reservations are required. To RSVP, contact The JCC is located at the intersection of Newfield purchased for games and attractions. “I am there (in the Negev) because it is “a place of death... Nothing could in the Young Farmers Shemtov at 203-324-2223, ext. 418, or morahleah@ Avenue and Vine Road. Volunteers are needed for the event. For more I can make a difference,” said Nava grow there.” Incubation Project. (Photo chabadstamford.org. For more information, contact Galit Roloff at information or to volunteer, contact Emily Eisen at Uner, who lives in Bnei Netzarim, one But today, these young farmers, provided by JNS) of three Halutza (pioneer) communi- with the support of veteran farmer 203-487-0974 or [email protected]. 203-487-0973 or [email protected]. ties, as part of the new Young Farmers mentors, are changing sand into the Save the Date: Chabad House The Jewish Community Center is a recipient agency of The Jewish Community Center is a recipient agency of Incubation Project. blossoms of a new beginning. They use United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan The Jewish National Fund estab- hydroponics and scientific techniques Parenting Conference and Darien. and Darien. lished the project shortly after the developed in the former Gaza-based Chabad House Stamford will host a Parenting 2005 unilateral disengagement from Jewish communities of Gush Katif to Conference on Sunday, March 15, from 9 am-1 Workshop for Parents – Raising Sign Up for Purim Shalach Manos pm, for parents of all children: babies, toddlers, Gaza, one of the most polarizing grow bug-free produce. Packages events in Israel’s history. The Halutza Yedidya Harush, JNF’s liaison for preschoolers, elementary and teens. As Chabad last Kids with Joy planned communities are part of JNF’s the Halutza communities, explained held a parenting conference 10 years ago, coordina- On Tuesday, February 10, from 9:15-10:15 am, the The Jewish holiday of Purim will be celebrated on tor Leah Shemtov realized that there was a need for JCC Sara Walker Nursery School will host the next Thursday, March 5. It is a holiday mitzvah to send Blueprint Negev campaign, which is that when the communities were JNS.org. “Everything is so new you Center, an educational Jewish farm in another parenting conference. lecture in its #raisingtodayskids parent and teacher gifts of food to friends, traditionally called mishloach aimed at developing southern Israel founded shortly after the disengage- feel like you are a part of the begin- Maryland – said the impulse to work the A panel of presenters will discuss topics to help education series. Rabbi Daniel Cohen of Congrega- manot or shalach manos. Chabad House Stamford will through infrastructure and jobs. The ment by residents of Gush Katif, only ning of something new and special. land in Israel is deep and “strikes at the parents gain insight into their “awesome career path.” tion Agudath Sholom will lead a workshop on raising again offer themed shalach manos packages for com- Negev comprises about 60 percent of 30 families took part in the plan. Yet It has its challenges, but being able core of the Jewish soul.” He explained The 45-minute sessions will cover health, psychology, kids with optimism, gratitude and joy. munity members to send. Past years’ themes have Israel’s land, but only eight percent the initiative grew steadily until four- to live and farm here – this is some- that many of the Jewish holidays and nutrition and education. Children’s programming Rabbi Cohen is the spiritual leader of Congregation included a spa package and a wine bottle puzzle, of Israeli citizens live there. But in and-a-half years later, there are now thing I really enjoy, that I love. This laws center on harvesting Israel. “[The will also be available. Agudath Sholom, and serves as a national officer of the and Leah Shemtov hopes to create something special recent years, the Negev has rapidly close to 400 families living in the three is pioneering.” idea is] livnot u’lehibanot, to build the For further information and to RSVP, contact Rabbinical Council of America. He is a regional board this year as well. evolved into a hub of activity, with a communities, with plans to grow to Harush compared the 21st-century land and to be built by the experience,” Shemtov at 203-324-2223, ext. 418, or morahleah@ member of the Anti-Defamation League, a member of Regardless of the theme of the shalach manos, new cyber-security park, an expanded 15,000 families. The Young Farmers Israel pioneer to those of the past. he said. chabadstamford.org. American Israel Public Affairs Committee National Coun- Rabbi Moshe and Leah Shemtov, of Chabad House Israel Defense Forces presence and Project brought a younger cohort to He said they both face challenges and Manela said he has seen children cil, and has served as chairman of the Vaad of Fairfield Stamford, use the opportunity to reach out to the the growth of Ben-Gurion University the land, enabling first-time famers to opportunities. When the first pioneers and adults who work on Pearlstone’s County and the Stamford Rabbinical Council. community and spread the sense of Purim and of the Negev. lease greenhouse space with minimal came to Israel after the Holocaust, they CAS Anniversary Lecture in Memory farm achieve “tremendous growth The #raisingtodayskids series was created by the Yiddishkeit to more than 700 people in Stamford. The Young Farmers Incubator capital down and low up-front costs for were tired and disenfranchised, with and insight... I see an awakening, of Rabbi Ehrenkranz JCC Sara Walker Nursery School to assist parents If you would like to add someone, or be added, to Project – co-sponsored by the Ness one agricultural season. In other parts no government support and no infra- an excitement and a joy – a con- Save the date of Wednesday, March 18, for Con- and educators in handling issues encountered while their distribution list, contact Leah Shemtov at 203- Foundation, Karen Ferber and Ellen of the country, several years’ capital structure from which to draw. But they nection to the world and to God gregation Agudath Sholom’s 125th Anniversary Com- raising children in today’s world. The February 10 324-2223, ext. 418. could be required. had world Jewry’s support and belief in – through the experience [of being memorative Lecture, in memory of Rabbi Joseph workshop will be held at the school, located at 458 Uner, a South African immigrant, building a Jewish state. he ew ewish oice at Pearlstone],” Manela told JNS.org. Ehrenkranz. Rabbi Benjamin Blech, author and Lakeside Dr., Stamford. T N J V is one of those younger adults. She “The challenges we face today are “Working the land is a window into Yeshiva University professor, will speak on “Under- Admission is free and all are welcome to attend. “The New Jewish Voice” (USPS #189) is published monthly by the converted to Judaism after volun- that people think Israel is built and the Jewish experience. That window standing the Kaddish: How to Change the World – A For more information, contact Sandi Waldstreicher United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and teering in a Negev kibbutz, where she strong already, meaning we don’t need is exponentially wider, deeper and Darien Inc., 1035 Newfield Ave., Stamford, CT 06905-2521. Tribute to a Rabbi and a Legacy.” The lecture will at 203-322-6541. met her husband. She spent the last Zionism, which is very wrong,” Harush really higher in Israel.” take place at Agudath Sholom, 301 Strawberry Hill The Jewish Community Center is a recipient agency of www.ujf.org for updates and donations several years studying in Jerusalem, told JNS.org. “The second challenge is Beyond the spiritual and the ideal, Ave., at 7:30 pm. For further information, contact United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan Ellen Weber...... President but she and her husband wanted to that we have to attract people to come there is also a strategic component the CAS office at 203-358-2200. and Darien. James A. Cohen...... Chief Executive Officer return to the south. When they heard because most people have the comfort to the Halutza communities. Harush Advisory Committee about the Young Farmers Project, they of living in the center of Israel or even said the area used to be a magnet Meryl Gordon, Dana Horowitz, Meryl Japha latched on. Be’er Sheva. Getting people is harder for the smuggling of drugs, weapons Reporter Group Staff “We became religious and we were than it seems.” and women. The Sudanese used the The Reporter Group edits and publishes The New Jewish Voice. looking for a place where we could But it is not impossible. Jakir Manela unoccupied border to cross illegally Rabbi Rachel Esserman...... Executive Editor keep growing spiritually,” Uner told – executive director of the Pearlstone into Israel. Furthermore, terrorists Diana Sochor...... Layout Editor were able to move relatively freely Michael Nassberg...... Assistant Editor Jenn DePersis...... Production Coordinator from Gaza to Egypt to Israel to carry Alaina Cardarelli...... Graphic Artist out attacks. Bonnie Rozen...... Advertising Representative The Halutza communities were Kathy Brown...... Bookkeeper struck hard by the recent war against Opinions Hamas; more than 70 rockets fell on The views expressed in editorials and opinion pieces their land. JNF provided 40 mobile are those of each author and not necessarily the views bomb shelters to keep the popula- of the United Jewish Federation. tion safe. While some residents did Letters flee, Harush said most remained and The New Jewish Voice welcomes letters on subjects of additional families joined, even in interest to the Jewish community. All letters must be recent months. signed and include a phone number. The editor may withhold the name upon request. Until now, JNF has invested more than $6 million dollars in these com- Kashruth munities. The organization is cur- We are not responsible for the Kashruth of any rently funding a $4 million medical advertiser’s product or establishment. center and a $2.5 million synagogue. Deadline “Israel’s biggest national mission is Regular deadline is the last Wednesday of the month the Negev,” said Harush. “We are for the next issue; i.e., the last Wednesday in July for the September issue. Israel’s pioneers.” Maayan Jaffe is senior writer/editor In Connecticut, nearly one child in five is hungry or food insecure and does not get enough food out- How to reach the editor: for Netsmart (ntst.com) and a Kansas- side of the free meal programs provided by the public schools. Women’s Philanthropy of the Jewish based freelance writer. Contact her at Mail: Sandy Golove Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien is joining other programs throughout the 1035 Newfield Ave. - Suite 200 [email protected] or follow her on Stamford, CT 06905-2521 A sunset in Israel’s Negev desert. (Photo by Matthew Parker via Wikimedia Commons) Twitter, @MaayanJaffe. country to do something about this situation in our own backyards. E-mail: [email protected] Fax: (203) 322-3277 Your support helps 3 SQUARE provide elementary school-age children identified as “in need” with a Phone: (203) 321-1373, ext. 107 Your ad bag of food each Friday to sustain them through the weekend. Most of these children are chronically Send article submissions via e-mail to hungry and don’t have regular access to food. Sandy Golove at [email protected] marked “Stamford Voice” in the subject will make news! line. Expect an acknowledgement; For further information, please contact Rebekah Raz at [email protected]. please re-send if you do not receive one. For information on advertising, contact How to reach Bonnie Rozen at (800)779-7896, ext. 244 the advertising Representative: or [email protected] Phone: 1-800-779-7896, ext. 244 Subscription Information: Phone: (203) 321-1373 ext. 107 ÊVisit www.ujf.org, facebook.com/stamfordFederation, or tweet UJF at ujfstamford 24 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ FEBRUARY 2015