CELEBRATING OUR 144TH YEAR OF SERVICE KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN

Volume LXXXV, Number 4 June 22, 2015 5 Tammuz 5775

KJ AT 143 YEARS GUEST SPEAKER ERIC GOLDSTEIN SPEAKS TO “KEHILAH” he 143rd Annual Century Kehilah” and the power of model and communicator, and his views Meeting, which took place on April building strong, interconnected on the power of community, or Kehilah, T30 in the Falk Auditorium of the communities. He spoke of the challenges were particularly meaningful to our Gottesman Center, began with Elie congregation since we carry the sense of Weinstock’s meaningful words of Kehilah in our very name. invocation and welcome. (The complete The presentation set a most appropriate text can be found on page 13.) framework for Rabbi Lookstein to It was an evening that included a introduce the concept of a dues-integrated familiar agenda: the induction of new gift to UJA-Federation. KJ is the first shul members, the celebration of milestone to underscore the importance of anniversaries of longstanding members, contributing to UJA-Federation by the election of trustees, and a memorial to including a donation in the annual dues departed members. structure. We were also privileged that evening to An attentive audience The night’s program also included a be addressed by the CEO of UJA- and opportunities such a vision presents, tribute to KJ Comptroller Hattie Murphy in Federation and KJ member Eric Goldstein. particularly in the present global climate. appreciation for her thirty years of

He reflected on the concept of a “21st Mr. Goldstein is an inspiring leader, role dedicated service. (continued on page 6) 94 SENIORS ARE GRADUATED FROM THE JOSEPH H. LOOKSTEIN UPPER SCHOOL OF RAMAZ MANY TO SPEND NEXT YEAR IN WE WISH OUR GRADUATES CONTINUED SUCCESS AND PERSONAL GROWTH AS THEY ENTER THE FOLLOWING YESHIVOT AND SCHOOLS TO PURSUE THEIR PASSION FOR LEARNING AND THEIR COMMITMENT TO TORAH, MITZVOT, AND AHAVAT YISRAEL Graduates will be spending next year in Israel at the following Torah institutions and programs: Hartman Institute Yeshivat Eretz haTzvi Midreshet Torah v’Avodah (Gush) Israel Experience at Bar Ilan Michlelet Mevaseret Yerushalayim Yeshivat Maale Gilboa Kivunim Midreshet Amit Nativ Yeshivat Orayta Midreshet Ein Hanatziv Sheirut Leumi Yeshivat Reishit Yerushalayim Midreshet HaRova Yeshivat Ashreinu The seniors also earned a wonderful record of college acceptances: Babson College Dartmouth College Johns Hopkins University University of Massachussetts Barnard College Duke University Maryland Inst.College of Art University of Miami University Emory University Muhlenberg College University of Michigan Brandeis University Fashion Institute of New York University University of Pennsylvania Columbia University Technology Pennsylvania State University University of Rochester Cornell University Franklin & Marshall College Princeton University Washington U., St. Louis CUNY - Baruch, Brooklyn, George Washington U. Stanford University Yale University Hunter, John Jay, Queens Harvard University SUNY - Binghamton University Macauley Honors Jewish Theological Seminary Syracuse University at Hunter College of America University of Maryland (continued on pages 10-11) Page 2 KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN

NEW MEMBERS Sixty-one new households joined the Congregation this past year and were officially inducted and welcomed at the 143rd Annual Meeting by Morris Massel, Secretary of the Congregation: Ellen Ackerstaff Karen and Ira Gronowitz Sarah Nanasi and Peter Russell Lenore and Maurice Ades Irwin Hochberg Anne and James Salame Linda and Shane Barbanel Suzan and Mitchell Hochberg Marina and Sam Schwartz Edith Toledano and Samuel Benelbas Anna and Israel Kochin Smadar and David Seinfeld Elyse and Tsion Bensusan Rachel and David Levi Rebecca and Zachary Sohn Anne and David Bergman Ariel and Matthew Levitan Aurora Cassirer and Sander Srulowitz Cecelia and Dennis Bernstein Claudette and Maurice Levy David Stern Sarah and Albert Betesh Amy and Seth Litzenblatt Lynda Strulovic Meghan Schloat and Daniel Cleiman Alana and Elan Luger Eliana and Samuel Tisch Jason Cohen Talia and Eric Mann Audrey and Howard Trachtman Adele and Derek Enlander Melissa and Gabriel Marans Rebecca and Gabriel Tramiel Daniel Etra Roger Markfield Hayley and Michael Turkel Hannah Fraint Audrey and Gary Menachem Chantal and David Ulmer Zahava and Solomon Garber Vivian and Jacob Muller Mira and Claudio Valencia Melissa Schapiro and Evan Garmaise Pamela and David Ness Amy and Michael Wildes Rachel and Robert Garson Erica Fishbein and Jeffrey Newelt Rachel and Michael Winston Sam Genet Jennifer Novick Ruth and Leonard Wisse Rina and Dan Golan Dana Polonsky and James O’Malley Jane and Nicolay Yakubovich Oren Goldhaber Mary and Jonathan Peldman Lisa Young Andrea and Adam Gorlyn Shari and Samuel Raymond Jillian Zurcher Erica and Adam Rosen

Tisha B’Av, Sunday July 26 (observed) WELCOME All Services and Programming at 114 East 85th Street - 8:30 a.m., Morning Services Congregation - 10:30 a.m., by Rabbi Jeremy Wieder: Kehilath Jeshurun “Tisha B’Av: A Fast Day or a Day of Mourning?” warmly welcomes - Films: 11:35 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. (Schedule below) - 7:00 p.m., Shiur by Rabbi Weinstock the following new - 7:50 p.m., Evening Services members - 8:56 p.m., Fast concludes who joined the Congregation 11:35 a.m. - Almost Peaceful (subtitles): Set during the largely unexplored period immediately after World War II, this 2002 film follows a group of mostly Jewish Parisians who attempt to restart between April 30 their lives and rekindle their capacity for happiness in the shadow of unspeakable horrors. (Running and the date on which time, 94 min.) this Bulletin went to press, June 19: 1:15 p.m. - The Couple: A 2004 drama starring Martin Landau and based on the true story of a Jewish Hungarian man’s desperate attempts to save his family from the concentration camps by turning over his fortune to the Nazis.(Running time, 120 min.) Janis Altman 3:20 p.m. - Gett: The Trial of Viviane Amsalem: This 2014 drama tells the story of Jonathan Baron contemporary, marital Sinat Chinam, the baseless hatred that, our teach, led to the destruction Danielle and Steven of our Temples and the commemorative holiday of Tisha B’Av. (Running time, 115 min.) Herbst 5:20 p.m. - Hiding and Seeking: Award-winning 2003 documentary about a Jewish father who Rosalie Kaufman travels to Poland with his two orthodox sons to search for the farmers who hid his family from the Philip Radin Nazis. (Running time, 97 min.) KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN Page 3 SHIVAH ASSAR B’TAMMUZ, TISHA B’AV WHEN TISHA B’AV AND THE THREE WEEKS COINCIDES JULY 5 – JULY 26 WITH SATURDAY EVENING uring the summer months, we mourn and for the other calamities which occurred f observed correctly, the nine days of the destruction of both Temples in on these days extends beyond the fasts Tisha B’Av can greatly enhance one’s DJerusalem, which took place on the themselves. The period between these two Iexperience on Tisha B’Av itself. Rabbi ninth of Av, and the events that led to their fasts, traditionally called The Three Weeks, Joseph B. Soloveitchik, z”l, pointed out that destruction. We fast on the seventeenth day includes several practices of mourning. it is not human nature to mourn of the month of Tammuz, Shivah Assar During these three weeks we do not get our appropriately for tragedies that occured B’Tammuz, because, according to tradition, hair cut, attend weddings or involve 2,000 years ago and, therefore, a system it was on that day that the enemy penetrated ourselves in large joyous gatherings. During was devised to help us gradually enter a the walls of prior to the the nine days which begin on the first of Av, state of mourning. destruction of the Second Temple. The July 17, and continue until the night of the We begin a moderate period of , however, writes that these were not tenth of Av, July 26, we are additionally mourning three weeks before Tisha B’Av. the only tragedies that befell the Jewish forbidden to eat meat and drink wine (except The mourning intensifies on Rosh Chodesh people on this day. On the seventeenth of on Shabbat), to go swimming, or bathe for Av, nine days prior to Tisha B’Av. In this Tammuz four more tragedies occurred: the pleasure and to do any laundry or dry manner when we arrive at Tisha B’Av, we first tablets containing the Ten cleaning that is not absolutely necessary. are ready to commemorate the destruction Commandments were broken by Moses The Talmud writes that when the month of of the Temples with the proper mind set. after the sin of the Golden Calf; the daily Av begins, our mood should reflect our This year is unique in the sense that sacrifice was suspended during the time of mourning for the destruction of the Temples. Tisha B’Av falls on Shabbat. The the First Temple; the wicked Apostumos On Tisha B’Av itself, besides fasting, we are observance of Shabbat takes precedence burned the Torah; and an idol was erected in prohibited from washing our bodies, over a fast day, so with the exeption of Yom the Temple. wearing leather shoes, anointing ourselves Kippur, any fast day which falls on Shabbat Additional tragedies also befell the and having marital relations. It is forbidden, is observed on Sunday. And so it is this Jewish people on the ninth day of the month as well, to study Torah on this day excepting year. The fast begins immediately after the of Av – Tisha B’Av. On this day, the spies the sections of the prophets and the Talmud conclusion of Shabbat. Therefore, some of (meraglim) returned to the Jews in the desert that discuss the destruction. We do not wear the laws are different and should be noted: with a negative report about the Land of tefillin until Mincha and the custom is to sit 1. There is no traditional Seudah Israel. In addition, it was on this day that the on low chairs as mourners do until midday. Mafseket. The pre-fast meal, which in this city of Betar was destroyed. Tens of Our observance of mourning also forbids us case will be Seudah Shlishit, can consist of thousands of Jews were killed, and the from greeting friends on Tisha B’Av. wicked Turnus Rufus plowed the site of the We mourn the Temples that were anything, including meat and wine. Mincha Temple and its surroundings. Tradition destroyed over nineteen hundred years ago, on July 25 will take place at 2:30 p.m. to asserts that the expulsion of the Jews from and we pray that we will be worthy to see allow everyone time to eat a leisurely in 1290 and the expulsion from God rebuild the Temple in Seudah Shlishit. Spain in 1492 also took place on Tisha B’Av. our lifetime. 2. Birkat Hamazon may be recited as a Our mourning for the destroyed Temples mezuman (a group of three men or three women) if the opportunity arises. 3. The prayer Tzidkatcha Tzedek is not KJ FOOD PANTRY said during Mincha. The KJ Food Pantry provides kosher food weekly to New York’s hungry. Clients are 4. Regular Havdalah is not said. The referred to us through the synagogue and local service agencies. Each week clients blessing on the fire is said on Saturday come to KJ to receive food staples tailored to their diets, as well as a selection of fresh night. The blessing on the wine and fruits and vegetables. Ramaz students pack the bags and staff the booth in the lobby haMavdil are said on Sunday. No blessing of KJ, and Ramaz/KJ members also deliver packages to those who are homebound. at all is made on the spices. For further information or to volunteer, please contact Stacy Scheinberg at 5. Maariv and the reading of Megillat [email protected]. Eichah will take place at 9:15 p.m. in the Lindenbaum Gymnasium of the Ramaz Middle School, 114 East 85th Street. For information about the weekly status of the Manhattan Eruv Attendees should wear their non-leather Call the Eruv Hotline: 212-874-6100 ext. 3 footwear to services, and bring tzedakah to donate during the offertory. (Recorded Message) The Jerusalem Talmud affirms that “one who mourns for Jerusalem will yet see its glorious reconstruction.” TO JOIN THE KJ ONLINE COMMUNITY, May our observance of Tisha B’Av this SEND AN E-MAIL WITH YOUR FIRST AND LAST NAME TO: [email protected] year help to bring about that blessed BE SURE TO VISIT KJ’S WEBSITE outcome. WWW.CKJ.ORG Page 4 KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN Keter Torah Awards Bestowed Upon At the conclusion of the morning service on the second day of Shavuot, DeeDee Benel and Sherri Libin were presented by Rabbi Haskel Lookstein with the Thirteenth Annual Judith Kaufman Hurwich Keter Torah Award. These are their remarks:

REFLECTIONS ON A KETER TORAH

azal tov, Sherri. His signature crown gave him his The symbol of royalty itself.” distinctive look. Here, the image of the crown clearly M And while most would view that hat as carries with it associations of authority, Chag Sameach and thank you for this strange and immature, Jughead considered and potentially invokes feelings of fear great honor. it a good luck charm, never to be taken off. and jealousy in those looking at it, or The name of this prestigious award, Bad things tended to happen when the longing for it themselves. Allowing Keter Torah, triggered several memories “crown” was removed. Haman-- or even Mordechai -- to wear the for me, and I found myself reminiscing My older brother would take my king’s crown would have given him too and then doing some research on the word father’s old felt fedora, turn it inside out, much power. keter, a word that never before called for cut off the brim of the hat, and most In both of these cases, though, we are my attention. importantly, and with great care, cut talking about a physical crown which here My earliest memory of a crown is jagged lines out of the top sides of the is an import from Persian society. The the one I wore in 4th grade in hat to resemble a crown. Jewish kings of the Bible were anointed. Flatbush Yeshivah. I even found His friends would do the They did not need physical representations a photo when I was cleaning same, and I think they felt of their authority. out my parents’ home. It was empowered. In fact, the far more important Jewish a fairly large black and These brief moments of references to “crowns” are metaphorical, white picture of my reminiscence led me to a like the ones described in Rambam’s classmates, everyone in more serious challenge, and Hilchot Talmud Torah, d erp: costume, and I’m standing I did some research on how ktrah ur,fb ohr,f vakac in the back row wearing a keter, a crown, is depicted ,ufkn r,fu vbuvf r,fu vru, r,f layers of fabric, draped in Judaism. The crown of Torah is Morashah across my shoulders, toga My first stop took me kehilat Yaakov - the inheritance of the style. In my hand I’m back to the story, Jewish people throughout the generations. holding what appears to be a where we encounter two very The crown of priesthood was first scepter and on my head a different examples of crowns: bestowed on Aaron, and passed along to crown. In Megillat Esther c erp we his descendants throughout the Both the scepter and the crown read: generations. were homemade. My mom had made the “The king loved Esther more than all King David epitomizes the crown of crown and the scepter out of cardboard and the other women, and she pleased and royalty: It is a member of his family who then wrapped both beautifully in shiny, attracted him… so that he placed the royal will one day resume the throne of Israel. Reynold’s Heavy Duty Aluminum Foil. crown upon her head, and made her queen Not surprisingly, the Rambam I’m smiling-and not just a “smile for instead of Vashti.” concludes, that ovhban kusd vru, r,f the camera smile” but a big, wide, natural Esther’s crown symbolized the glory of “…the crown of Torah is greater than one. her elevated status, and no doubt inspired the other two.” It was apparent that I was thrilled - and adulation from the women of Ahasuerosh’s When I look UP at a crown, I see a why not? For us girls there wasn’t a more kingdom, but we understand that there beautifully jeweled item- a physical adored femme fatale than Queen Esther. were limits to the power of her crown. representation glorifying a person, a Esther was the ultimate heroic woman Later in the Megillah u erp we read: majestic ornamentation-a concrete, visible whose beauty, charm and courage “Haman said to the king, ‘ The man object bestowed on an individual to mark a ensnared our enemies, and because of her whom the king wishes to honor… Let victory - or a prestigious status. It bravery we were not destroyed. them fetch the royal robes worn by the physically places its wearer above his or And then, at the exact opposite end of king, and the horse upon which the king her surroundings; it is a mark of my keter associations - there was Jughead rode when he was crowned.’” distinction. Jones, the goofy sidekick in the Archie An interesting interpretation of this When I think of our Jewish references comics. verse is offered by Rabbi Shlomo to crowns, I don’t make those associations; Always hungry and fiercely lazy, Alkabetz, 16th Century Master Kabbalist, I don’t look UP, I look IN…inside, Forsythe P. “Jughead” Jones III always and author of Lekha Dodi. internally, and that is the ikkar. depicted with his long nose, half-closed Rabbi Alkabetz writes: My friend and colleague Rabbi Yonah eyes, “S” sweatshirt, and his interesting “With these words, Haman gazed Weinreb is a gifted scribe and artist. I choice of headwear: a crown-like button almost longingly at the King’s crown. spoke to him this past week to learn about beanie hat. Now that is what he would really want: continued on page 12 KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN Page 5 DeeDee Benel and Sherri Libin

A SENSE OF COMMUNITY

hank you Rabbis Lookstein, approached someone at the Jewish hospital need and celebration?? Weinstock and members of the to give him the names of all the Jewish With the support of Kenny Rochlin, I TBoard. It’s an honor to be standing children born in 1941. was partnered with Alissa Shams, herself a here today. Yashar kochech to my fellow Together with Rabbi Silver, he went Keter Torah honoree last year, and we honoree, Dee Dee Benel. door to door on Sunday afternoons to founded an initiative which we called The holiday of Shavuot celebrates interest people in sending their children to Natan@Ramaz. God’s giving of the Torah - it was at that Chofetz Chaim. Through their diligent “Natan” in Hebrew means “to give.” precise moment that the Jewish people efforts, they encouraged 17 parents to “Natan” is a palindrome, a word which became a “community,” bound by shared enroll their children - an amazing feat for a reads the same backward or forward. laws and values... co-educational, novel, Jewish Day school Alissa and I felt this name was truly I had never really given much thought in America at that time. reflective of what we were doing as we to the notion or sense of “community” Without visionary and innovative believe strongly that when you give to until my mother’s sudden passing three leaders like my grandparents and the others, you receive so much more in years ago. But upon reflection - Jewish founders of Ramaz, my education - in a co- return. communal leadership, both lay and educational Jewish day school founded Natan’s goal is to acknowledge professional, are a significant thread on the ideals of Torah and lifecycle events, both happy and sad within in my family’s history. menschlichkeit - could never the Ramaz community. My mother was the daughter have been realized. We send emails, mail cards, deliver of Rabbi Abraham AvRutick, The tradition of onesies to newborns, cook meals, and pay president of the Rabbinical leadership and communal shiva calls. We sponsor lectures on shiva Council of America from involvement continued etiquette and the power of prayer. We pray 1962-1964, and a leading with my mother and as a group for sick members of our Ramaz spokesman in his time for father, who both became family and bake challah together as a . He was a active members in the community. What makes Natan@Ramaz Rabbi for 36 years in local day school and shul unique is our broad definition of Hartford and West Hartford, communities. My mother “community.” We tend not only to the . My loyally attended her weekly needs of students and parents, but also to grandmother, Frances Tehillim groups and was a faculty, staff and alumni. AvRutick, herself a trailblazer, member of her local Chevra To date, Natan’s 75 plus volunteer authored the very first Kosher for Kadisha. My father served as members have responded to over 300 life- Passover cookbook. Treasurer and Board member of cycle events. We have celebrated and cried My paternal grandfather, Ben both my shul and day school. together as a community and in so doing, Berkowitz, was the founder of the Chofetz When my mother passed away have become stronger. Chaim Day School in Cincinnati, Ohio in suddenly three years ago, I was We are now extending beyond our 1946. At the time it was started, the day immediately enveloped by the support, initial mission of being first responders to school, which later became known as the warmth and kindness of our synagogue, focus on “community building” at the Cincinnati Hebrew Day School, was a led by our dynamic Rabbis Lookstein and children’s level by encouraging them to pioneer school, with a dual curriculum rare Weinstock. think about their community and how they, at that time - coming less than 10 years My loss gave me pause to think: What too, can impact others through their own after Ramaz was established in 1937. does “community” really mean? How can good work. The story is that when my aunt was in we each, individually, benefit from being a Having now had three years of kindergarten, my grandfather recognized part of a community? And, most experience with Natan@Ramaz, and being that there was no place for my aunt (his importantly, as community members, what on the receiving end of the community’s first born) to receive a Jewish education. are our responsibilities toward each other? kindness, I’d like to share some life lessons And so, he approached Rabbi Eliezer Having experienced the outpouring of I have learned in acknowledging others’ Silver, then the local Rabbi in Cincinnati, concern and caring from the shul, and the life-cycle events: about establishing a Hebrew Day school. emotional benefit I received, I wondered if First, small actions make a huge (For those who may not recognize the such a model could be replicated within difference - Sending an email to a sick name, Rabbi Silver was an active voice in the Ramaz community. Could we establish friend, paying a shiva call, dropping a the WWII rescue efforts, having been a way for the Ramaz family to come condolence card in the mail, or cooking a instrumental in the saving of many together as one to support each other in meal. These small acts have profound European Torah scholars and bringing both good times and bad? Could we raise impact on the recipients. They will them to the US, Canada and Palestine.) our voices as one to celebrate with -- and remember these acts of kindness always. After an initial rebuffing, Rabbi Silver mourn with -- each other? What would be Second, it’s not always easy and gave his blessing to the establishment of the impact on the greater Ramaz continued on page 15 the school. My grandfather then community if we could unite in times of Page 6 KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN THE 143rd ANNUAL SYNAGOGUE MEETING THE SPIRIT OF KEHILAH; HAKARAT HATOV

61 NEW MEMBER HOUSEHOLDS Amy and Alex Goldstein INDUCTED Lynnette Gruenhut ith the completion of our Linda Hanania beloved Main Synagogue on the Margery Kalb Whorizon, Rabbi Elie Weinstock Sheera and Michael Moffson began the 143rd Annual Synagogue and Ivan Moskowitz Meeting by invoking the first words of the Sandra and Jay Rothschild Ashrei prayer, reminding us how fortunate Deborah and Sheldon Rubin we are for the myriad blessings God has Ronit and Lawrence Schwab bestowed upon us as individuals, as a Surie and Robert Sugarman Congregation, and as a People. Murray Teitelbaum Following that solemn moment of invocation and an equally moving A SPECIAL PRESENTATION Anniversarians rendition of the national anthems by What followed the salute to our Dr. Inna Bakker, Brenda and Albert Bernstein Cantor Mayer Davis, the congregation anniversarians was a very special tribute to inducted sixty-one new member to KJ Comptroller Hattie Murphy in households comprising one hundred and appreciation for thirty years of dedicated nine people. (A listing of the new members service. She was presented with a appears on page 2 of this Bulletin.) beautifully crafted Birkat haBayit, the The first order of business which traditional prayer for peace and prosperity, immediately followed was the celebration health and harmony, love and laughter, of milestone anniversaries of affiliation for which hangs in many Jewish homes. What thirty-two households. Rabbi Lookstein, better blessing for a woman who has with incomparable warmth, recalled the served the Congregation with such

family histories and communal devotion? ossi Hoffman contributions of each of the celebrants. Y

PRESIDENT’S REPORT ticle: Thank you, Hattie! The following members celebrated President Joel Katz assured those in milestone anniversaries and were honored attendance that KJ is strong and that our by the Congregation: outlook as a congregation and a FIFTIETH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRANTS community is very bright. It was a sound Brenda and Albert Bernstein fiscal year, and our membership continues Hannah Low to grow, as does our diverse array of Gabriella Major-Dresdner programming and services. Evelyn Rochlin

Joel reported that after four years of edit for all photos in this ar

displacement, our construction and Cr FORTIETH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRANTS Ruth and Raymond Brenner renovation project is approaching Tova Bulow completion. He offered a special thanks to Hollace and Steven Cohen Steve Gross and the entire construction Elisabeth and Alan Doft committee, who will be properly Barbara and Abraham Esses acknowledged when we return to our Evelyn Rochlin and Tova Bulow Wilma and Stephen Kule synagogue. Vivianne and Robert Kurzweil The report concluded with an update Steven Lorch regarding the ongoing search for a rabbi to Esther and Eugene Roshwalb succeed Rabbi Lookstein. The focus Amy and Howard Rubenstein groups and community-wide survey led to Shera Aranoff and Alan Tuchman the consideration of 20 new applicants by TWENTY-FIFTH ANNIVERSARY the Rabbinic Planning Committee. Three CELEBRANTS applicants from this group will address the Inna Bakker congregation as visiting scholars. Shira and Lawrence Baruch Faith and Andrew Charles BOARD ELECTIONS David Drezner The report of the Nominating Valerie Feigen and Steven Eisman Committee, as approved by the Board of Diana and Robert Friedman Trustees, was presented by Wendy KJ camaraderie in action KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN Page 7

Greenbaum and adopted by the Raanan Agus congregation. Hannah Freilich The following officers were re-elected Monita Buchwald to the same positions for the 2015-2016 Eric Goldstein Congregational year: Dana Rubinstein President...... Joel Katz Vice President...... Elias Buchwald The following Board members were re- 2nd Vice President...... Surie Sugarman elected: 3rd Vice President...... David Lobel CHARTER TRUSTEES Neil Cohen 4th Vice President...... Dr. Philip Wilner Stephanie Freilich Secretary ...... Morris Massel Erica Schwartz Treasurer...... Jonathan Wagner Tammy Winn Assistant Treasurer...... Sidney Ingber Eric Goldstein addresses our Kehilah BOARD MEMBERS Financial Secretary...... Evan Farber vacancies left by Michael Kaplan and Leor Michael Gerber Recording Secretary ...... JJ Hornblass Yaira Singer Landa, Gabby Fridman and Sherri Libin ALUMNI TRUSTEES were appointed to the Associate Board. REGULAR TRUSTEES Josh Lookstein The Kol Ram Community Chorus Abbe Serphos Two seats were vacated due to under the direction of Daniel Henkin, mandatory retirement (the occupant The following people were elected to provided a musical interlude before CEO having served the constitutional limit of serve on the Ramaz Board: of UJA- Federation of New York, Eric nine years on the Board). These seats were Goldstein, presented his remarks. Eric’s held by Rabbi Manfred Rechtschaffen and CHARTER TRUSTEES views on the power of community struck a Sara Shemia, who were both thanked for Dana Hiltzik chord in an audience who appreciated the their service. PARENT BOARD MEMBERS importance and value of living in - and The following members of the Jason Kollander contributing to - a kehilah. congregation were re-elected to serve as ALUMNI BOARD MEMBERS Regular Trustees: Abigail Tambor DECEASED MEMBERS Alan Friedman COMMUNITY BOARD MEMBER In a solemn moment, and with warmth Roni Pick Margery Lehman and sensitivity, Rabbi Lookstein then paid Alissa Shams David Schizer tribute to twelve members of the Two Associate Trustees, Michael Randi Sultan Congregation who were called to their Kaplan and Leor Landa, completed the eternal reward since the 142nd Annual The following Honorary Board maximum number of years they were Meeting: Members were re-elected for a one year eligible to serve and were also thanked for Shirley Abel period: the contributions they made during their Daniel Cohen tenure and were elevated to Regular Larry Creizman HONORARY BOARD MEMBERS: Trustees, thereby filling the two Regular Andy Fier Harvey Beker Trustee vacancies. Saul Burian was also Maria Finkle Fred Distenfeld elected to the Regular Board of Trustees. Norman Halper Lillian Eisman Kurt Lewin David Gruenstein ASSOCIATE TRUSTEES Ben Milstein Pearl Hack The following Associate Trustees were Ellen Scheinfeld Robert Kapito reappointed: Morris Weiss Ilan Kaufthal Yaira Singer Binstock Dr. Walter Weitzner Dr. Jerry Kestenbaum Jeffrey Esses Morris Wyszogrod Gail Propp Orrin Feingold The congregational membership in Rebecca Feit attendance approved the slate of Ramaz Rocky Fishman R S M School trustees, following which the 143rd Yonina Gomberg AMAZ CHOOL EETING Annual Synagogue Meeting was adjourned Adam Kaplan Dr. Leora Mogilner, Chair of the and all were invited to enjoy a delicious Larry Kassman Nominating Committee, presented its repast of frankfurters, sauerkraut, and ice Robert Katz report on behalf of Jacob Doft, Chairman cold beer, courtesy of Foremost Caterers. Rina Kestenbaum of the Board of the Ramaz School. She Dr. Jody Levine thanked those members of the Board of Joseph Meyer Trustees who completed their terms of Sheera Moffson service and rotated off the Ramaz Board: To fill the two Associate Trustee Page 8 KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN

H E A RING THE S TILL, SM A LL, VOICE 1 Shabbat HaChodesh/Rosh Chodesh Nisan/Parashat Vayyikra 5775, by Rabbi Eric Grossman

On March 21st, the newly-appointed Head of School of Ramaz, Rabbi Eric Grossman, delivered a memorable set of remarks from our pulpit. The first part consisted of expressions of gratitude while the second was a fascinating sermon. Both parts revealed the kind of person Rabbi Grossman is and his exceptional qualifications for his new role in our community. For those who weren’t present - and as a reminder to those who were - we present his remarks as a special intellectual and religious treat.

arashat HaChodesh, the special that prompts this initial question, “Mah Why did the Torah Sheb’al Peh reject kriyah we read this morning, has ha’avodah hazzot lachem,” we find this logical reading? Why would Chazal Pmany important firsts, including the something quite startling: The child not include the blood on the mezuzah in first commandment to Bnei Yisrael. It is depicted in the parashah seems to be our annual Pesach practice? also the first time in the Torah we hear of reacting to the bizarre act of placing blood I believe our Sages were making a the significance of the mezuzah, that is, the on the mezuzah. When he inquires, “What profound point about the nature of Torah doorpost: is the meaning of this?” he is asking, “Why and Jewish education. Sensational and, [The Children of Israel] are to take are we starting dinner by painting the literally, splashy events like blood on a some of the blood and put it on the sides doorpost with blood?” door are certain to trigger strong reactions and tops of the doorposts of the houses ... Ibn Ezra notes that this is clearly the and quicken queries. But Chazal ask us The blood will be a sign for you on the peshat of the verse: the obvious prompt for instead to train our children to react to houses where you are, and when I see the the child’s question must be the sui generis subtle nuances and variations in the pattern blood, I will pass over you. (Exod 12:7a, ritual of painting the blood. However, Ibn of daily life. Ibn Ezra concludes by saying D) Ezra continues, this explanation cannot be that the questions at the seder are prompted Here we see the origin of what is now accepted, since it was rejected by the by the fine differences in what we eat and emblematic of the Jewish home: that on halacha, which does not include daubing how we conduct the meal.4 each of our doorposts is a sign of God’s blood at all as part of the seder.3 The four questions our children are protection. In fact, a better translation of being taught to ask in two weeks’ time are the verb pasach (peh-samech-chet) is not about dipping twice instead of (once or) “pass over” but rather, “protect,”2 so that THREE COMMUNITY MIKVAHS not at all, about variations in posture, and the blood on the door is in fact the sign of the degree to which the bread has risen. It God’s protection, just like the mezuzah The Jacques & Hannah takes both training and a keen sensitivity to represents Shomer D’latot Yisrael, the one’s surroundings to pick up on these Almighty as the Protector of the Doors of Schwalbe Mikvah changes, and that is precisely what the Israel. 419 East 77th Street halacha requires of us. Now, a few verses later we have (between 1st & York Avenues) This sensitivity to detail that we show another important first, and for those of us Telephone: 212-359-2020 our children in ritual is a model for how in Jewish education, perhaps the most they should relate to the world around significant first: them. Kids who are taught to be aware of When your children ask you, “What small changes in the vagaries of ritual, bein does this ceremony mean to you?” then tell The Rennert Mikvah adam l’makom, between humans and God, them, “It is the Pesach sacrifice to the Lord at 5th Avenue Synagogue will acquire the same sensitivity to small who protected the houses of the Israelites 5 East 62nd Street difference and quiet need in people and in Egypt and spared our homes.” (Exod (just off Fifth Avenue) society, bein adam l’chaveiro, between 12:26, 27a) Telephone: 212-753-6058 humans and their neighbors. This is not only the first commandment Living in the Midwest on 9/11, I to educate our children, but the paradigm remember being moved by the reaction of for how Jewish education is conducted. New Yorkers to the tragedy, and thinking Here is the idea that knowledge begins The West Side Mikvah how well it spoke of the city that its with questions, and that students are not 234 West 74th Street citizens responded with such decency. But only encouraged but also incentivized and (East of Broadway) in truth, no one needed the Torah for induced to ask questions, and that our Telephone: 212-579-2011 guidance in how to act in the face of such answers must be logical, reasonable, monumental catastrophe. Decent people of historical, and principled. all faiths, and of no faith, can respond So when we look at the circumstance morally and properly to earthquakes, KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN Page 9 bombings, and similar disasters. It is for To be there for people in times of great I want to leave you with a short story. the small details of everyday life that God need is to be human; to be there for them My students tell me it is one of their gave us Torah-not to show us and our in small moments of triumph is to be a favorites. children how to be good people, but how to mensch. There was once a farmer who be better people, and finer human beings. This is my favorite Shabbat because we discovered that he had lost his watch in a To accomplish this, the Torah teaches begin the book of Vayyikra, Leviticus. barn. It was no ordinary watch, and it had us to pay attention not to obvious need, but This is when most people tune out during great sentimental value to him. After rather to subtle need. leining, but I love the book and have searching high and low among the hay for A Ramaz student asked me what I dedicated most of my time in biblical a long while, he gave up and enlisted the admire most about the school. I told him scholarship to its study. I understand the help of a group of children playing outside that Ramaz is famous throughout the appeal of the sweeping narratives of the barn. He promised them that the person Jewish world for its outstanding Creation and the Exodus, but I am attracted who found the watch would be rewarded. academics, for being the “Harvard” of to the intricate laws of sacrifice and the Hearing this, the children hurried inside Jewish day schools. Tabernacle that the barn and combed through the entire Considering that, I teach us that stack of hay, but still could not find the admire the fact that the God is in the watch. Just when the farmer was about to Ramaz mission This sensitivity to detail details. give up the search, a little boy went up to statement has that we show our children We express him and asked to be given another chance. menschlichkeit - not this idea three The farmer looked at him and thought, academic excellence-as in ritual is a model times a day “Why not?” So the farmer sent the boy the first bullet point. for how they should relate during the back to the barn. The essence of Amidah in the After a while the child came out with menschlichkeit is this to the world around them. modim the watch in his hand. The farmer was both virtue of being sensitive paragraph. happy and surprised. He asked the boy to others in their quiet, When we how he succeeded where the rest had individual needs. extend our gratitude to God in modim, we failed. The boy replied, “I did nothing but I ask my staff at the beginning of each do so not for the great miracles He sit on the ground and listen. In the silence day to begin class not by reading texts, but performed in history, but for the quiet I heard the ticking of the watch and sought by first reading the faces of their students. miracles “sheb’chol yom imannu” that are it in that direction.” If teachers know their students, they are with us every day, all day, morning, noon, On this Shabbat Rosh Chodesh, we ask able to detect barely perceptible changes in and night. By reciting the modim, the God to allow us to hear the muted sound of their lineament that can signal deeper siddur attunes us to the muted miraculous need in others, to heed the subtle wonders issues. nature of our existence that would of His heavens, and always be aware of the The beauty of Yachad is that it otherwise escape our attention. soft ticking of the passage of time. addresses a need that, for far too long, was And this, I believe, is the significance Chodesh Tov and Shabbat Shalom. not on the radar of the Jewish community. of the first commandment given to the Inclusion means being sensitive to the Jewish people. subtle needs of those who would otherwise This month is to be for you the first 1 I would like to thank Marshall Huebner who feel marginalized or ignored. month ... (Exod 12:2a) approached me after services to suggest the theme of the kol d’mama daka, the still small voice of 1 Kgs This virtue of menschlichkeit extends Now to appreciate the meaning of this, 19:12, as a leitmotif of this sermon. beyond adversity. When I became Head of we need to understand that at the time of 2 That pasach means “protect” and not “pass School in Detroit, I appointed one of my the Tanach, the most popular national over” is supported by Isa 31:5, where a series of verbs colleagues and mentors to a high holiday was Rosh Chodesh. If you read the appears, all meaning “protect,” including the verb “pasoach”. This is also why the Torah calls Pesach administrative position. She told me it was books of Nevi ‘im, the Prophets, you will night “leil shimurim,” a “night of protection,” in Exod a life-changing moment, not see shockingly little evidence of Jewish 12:42. This interpretation appears in the Mechilta professionally, but personally. She said she observance• except for Rosh Chodesh. 5 d’Rabbi Yishmael in the introduction to Beshallach, found out who her friends were. “Eric,” God’s first mitzvah to the Jews was not and Rashi hints at this translation in his commentary on Exod 12:32. Why Jewish tradition has preferred she said, “when I was diagnosed with Shabbat or Pesach, both of which are the less-correct (or incorrect) translation “pass cancer years ago, everyone was there for radical rituals that 3,500 years later still over/Passover” is a fascinating question, and I hope to me, everyone felt sorry for me, and differentiate us as a people. Instead, God have the opportunity to give a shiur on this topic at everyone wished me well. But when I was first commands us about Rosh Chodesh, to Ramaz/KJ next Pesach (if we are not in Jerusalem!). promoted, only my true friends cheered me pay attention to the most frequent and 3 See Ibn Ezra to Exod 12:24, both the longer and the shorter commentary. on. The rest were too mired in envy to be commonplace holiday. God’s message to 4 Ibn Ezra, Exod 12:24, longer commentary. happy for me. Bnei Yisrael is that we must learn to see 5 See 1 Sam 20:1ff. and 1 Kgs 4:23, Ezek. 46:1, “It is said that friends are people who significance in the ordinary, holiness in the Amos 8:5. Again, I look forward to exploring these are there for you in the tough times” she profane, and be sensitive to the subtle and other sources during a future shiur on the observance of Rosh Chodesh during the time of the concluded, “but I say friends are changes in the everyday: like the gradual Bible. who are there for you in the good times.” phases of the moon. Page 10 KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN ACADEMIC HONORS CONGREGATION KEHILATH JESHURUN EXTENDS A MAZAL TOV TO....

MATTHEW ABRAHAMS, son of Stacey and BENJAMIN EMMERICH, son of Pamela and graduation from the Ramaz Upper School Harvey Abrahams, upon his graduation Adam Emmerich, upon his graduation from as a recipient of the Tzedakah Award, from the Ramaz Upper School. Matthew the Ramaz Upper School as a recipient of presented to the seniors who demonstrate a will attend Binghamton University in the the Rabbi Joseph H. Lookstein Memorial tireless commitment to worthy causes and fall. Award presented by the Lower School for who mobilize the school community to outstanding personal growth as well as a provide relief. Olivia will attend Midreshet JILL ADLER, daughter of Amy Adler and Chorus Award presented to graduating Lindenbaum in the fall and Syracuse Elliot Adler, upon her graduation from the seniors for excellence in chorus. Benjamin University upon her return from Israel. Ramaz Upper School as a recipient of the will attend Hartman Institute in the fall and Fannye Popkin Memorial Award for University of Rochester upon his return BENJAMIN HIRSCHFELD, son of Dr. Susan excellence in the fine arts. Jill will attend from Israel. Hirschfeld and Elie & Dr. Sarah Maryland Institute College of Art in the Hirschfeld, upon his graduation from the fall. DAVID ERRICO-NAGAR, son of Penny and Ramaz Upper School. Benjamin will attend Moshe Errico-Nagar, the recipient of the New York University in the fall. ALEXANDER AGUS, son of Dr. Nicole and 2015 Isaac Arate Award for Excellence in Raanan Agus, upon his graduation from the Bible, upon his graduation from Yeshiva ALIZA HORNBLASS, daughter of Dr. Chani Ramaz Upper School as a recipient of the University with BA degrees in both Math, Penstein and JJ Hornblass, upon her Rifka Rosenwein Journalism Award with a focus in Computer Science, and in graduation from the Ramaz Upper School granted to the senior who reflects Philosophy, for which he presented an as a recipient of the Avram J. Hellerman commitment to a year of study in Israel and Honors Thesis. David will continue his Bikur Cholim Award presented to the excellence in journalism and writing. He studies toward Semikha at YU and will be graduating seniors who have demonstrated also received The Aron, Leah and Leon going to London with his wife, Leah, for an exceptional commitment to the mitzvah of Swergold Memorial Award for excellence internship though the Chief Rabbi’s office Bikur Cholim. Aliza will attend Midreshet in the study of Talmud, as well as a for High Holiday programing. Torah v’Avodah in the fall and Binghamton Yearbook Award for outstanding University upon her return from Israel. contributions to the yearbook. Alexander JOSEPH GOLDRING, son of Hadassah and Mazal Tov to proud KJ grandparents Ann will attend Yeshivat Orayta in the fall and Dr. Samuel Goldring, upon his graduation and Hon. Jerome Hornblass. Wharton (University of Pennsylvania) from the Ramaz Upper School. Joseph will upon his return from Israel. attend Binghamton University in the fall. BENJAMIN JASPAN, son of Michele and Ronald Jaspan, upon his graduation from MIA GABRIELLE APPELBAUM, daughter of LAUREN GROSS, daughter of Jennifer & the Ramaz Upper School. Benjamin will Suzy and Appelbaum, upon her graduation Saul Burian and Micheal Gross, upon her attend Yeshivat Netiv Aryeh in the fall and from New York University College of Arts graduation from the Ramaz Upper School. Binghamton University upon his return and Science and NYUAbu Dhabi with a Lauren will attend Midreshet Amit in the from Israel. degree in Economics and French. Mia was fall and New York University upon her the recipient of the President’s Service return from Israel. NATHALIE KAHN, daughter of Judy and Dr. Award and The Exemplar of Excellence Hirshel Kahn, upon her graduation from Award. Mia was selected for the Coro JORDANA GUREWITSCH, daughter of Karen the Ramaz Upper School. Nathalie will Fellowship in Public Affairs. and Steven Gurewitsch, upon her attend Midreshet Lindenbaum in the fall graduation from the Ramaz Upper School. and Barnard College upon her return from AMANDA CINNAMON, daughter of Mindy Jordana will attend Midreshet Amit in the Israel. and Dr. Jay Cinnamon, upon her graduation fall and University of Miami upon her with honors from Stern College for Women return from Israel. Mazal Tov to proud KJ BENJAMIN KOHL, son of Caren and Samuel with a BA in Education. Amanda has grandparents Rae and Stanley Gurewitsch. Kohl, upon his graduation from the Ramaz accepted a fifth grade teaching positon at Upper School. Benjamin will attend Ben Day School in REBECCA HERING, daughter of Michele in the fall. Paramus, New Jersey, beginning this fall. and Benjamin Ari Hering, upon her Mazal Tov to proud KJ grandparents graduation from the Ramaz Upper School CAROLINE KOPPEL, daughter of Lynette Audrey and Rabbi Haskel Lookstein. as a recipient of the New York City Council and Steven Koppel, upon her graduation Speaker’s Student Achievement Award. magna cum laude from Northwestern BENJAMIN COHEN, son of Dana and Dr. Rebecca will attend Midreshet Amit in the University’s Medill School of Journalism. Michael Cohen, upon his graduation from fall and Boston University upon her return Caroline has accepted a position with the Ramaz Upper School as a College from Israel. Accenture beginning in August. Mazal Tov Board National Hispanic Recognition to proud KJ grandmother Yvonne Koppel. Program Scholar. Benjamin will attend OLIVIA HERSHKOWITZ, daughter of Karen University of Pennsylvania in the fall. and Michael Hershkowitz, upon her KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN Page 11 ACADEMIC HONORS

SKYLER LEVINE, daughter of Drs. Jody the Sue Moskowitz Chesed Award for graduating seniors for excellence in dance. and Elie Levine, upon her graduation from excellence in character and dedication to She also received a Letter of the Ramaz Upper School as a recipient of the spirit of Jewish ethics. He received a Commendation from the National Merit the Renee Margareten Berger Award School Service Award for outstanding Scholarship Program, a State of New York presented to the student who has achieved commitment in service to school Comptroller Award, and a State of New the highest academic average in General programs, as well as the Sidney York (Regents) Scholarship for Academic Studies. She also received a Rampage Scheinberg Award for Politics and Law Excellence. Orly will attend University of Award presented to graduating seniors for for commitment and outstanding class Pennsylvania in the fall. outstanding contributions to Rampage, performance. David also received the and a Letter of Commendation from the Gorfinkle/Waldman Computer Science ERICA NEWMAN-CORRE, daughter of National Merit Scholarship Program. Award for outstanding work in the study Diana Newman and Isaac Corre, upon her Skyler will attend Wharton (University of of computer science, and a Letter of graduation from the Ramaz Upper School Pennsylvania) in the fall. Commendation from the National Merit as a recipient of the Lillian Jacobs Award Scholarship Program. David will attend for excellence in character and dedication ANDREW LOBEL, son of Judy and David Yeshivat Maaleh Gilboa in the fall and to the spirit of Jewish ethics. She also Lobel, upon his graduation from the Princeton University upon his return from received The Aron, Leah and Leon Ramaz Upper School as a recipient of the Israel. Mazal Tov as well to proud KJ Swergold Memorial Award for excellence Richard E. Kobrin Award for Excellence grandmother Gabriella Major. in the study of Talmud; the English Award in Community presented to the graduating for excellence in literature; the Edith seniors who have demonstrated great JACLYN MEHL, daughter of Robin Mehl Schrank Memorial Award for outstanding sensitivity to the value and importance of and Nancy & Dr. Sydney Mehl, upon her work in creative writing; the History community service. He also received the graduation from the Ramaz Upper School Award for excellence in history; and a Leonard Friedland as a recipient of the Tzedakah Award, Letter of Commendation from the Memorial Award for outstanding work in presented to the seniors who demonstrate National Merit Scholarship Program. the study of the Hebrew language and a tireless commitment to worthy causes Erica will attend Harvard University in the excellence in its literature, as well as the and who mobilize the school community fall. Mazal Tov to proud KJ grandparents Sidney Scheinberg Award for Politics and to provide relief. Jaclyn will attend Carol and Mel Newman. Law for commitment and outstanding University of Maryland in the fall. class performance; the Rampage Award AARON ORWASHER, son of Nina and for outstanding contributions to Rampage; ORLY MINTZ, daughter of Dr. Elizabeth Abram Orwasher upon his graduation a Letter of Commendation from the Wallach and Victor Mintz, upon her from Northwestern University, receiving a National Merit Scholarship Program; and graduation from the Ramaz Upper School BS in Electrical Engineering. Aaron has a Bronfman Fellowship. Andrew will as a recipient of the Sue Moskowitz taken a position with General Dynamics attend Harvard University in the fall. Chesed Award for excellence in character Electric Boat Division in New London, Mazal Tov to proud KJ grandmother, and dedication to the spirit of Jewish CT. Mazal Tov as well to the proud KJ Esther Lobel. ethics, as well as the Gloria Schrenzel grandfather, Louis Orwasher. Sheer Dance Award presented to continued on page 20 GABRIEL LOW, son of Lisa and Nathan Low, upon his graduation from the Ramaz YOM HASHOAH COMMEMORATED ON APRIL 15 Upper School, as a recipient of the Morris S. Arfa Keter Shem Tov Award given to the he cornerstone of this year’s Yom HaShoah program, entitled We Remember the Children, students who best exemplify the qualities Twas Ramaz parent Tzachi Goldberg, who shared the moving story of how with the help of and character advocated in Pirkei Avot. He ’s Pages of Testimony, he discovered, after his father’s passing, that his father had also received the Leonard Friedland been married before World War II and his wife and two young daughters were murdered by Hebrew Language Memorial Award for the Nazis. His recollections and the candlelighting ceremony in memory of outstanding work in the study of the young children killed by the Nazis underscored the worlds that were lost Hebrew language and excellence in its when so many young lives ended before they had the opportunity to start literature, as well as a Yearbook Award for living. The evening, marked by prayer, remembrance and reflection, was a outstanding contributions to the yearbook. fitting way to honor those who were murdered and those who survived. As Gabriel will spend a year in Israel and time moves on and the number of survivors is diminished, it behooves every attend University of Pennsylvania upon one of us to make remembering a priority so that the next generation, learning his return. by example, will also recognize the importance of remembering. We are preparing for next year a Scroll of Commemoration with the names of KJ/Ramaz family DAVID MAJOR, son of Rochelle and members who perished in the Holocaust. Please submit names you want included on the scroll, in Eugene Major, upon his graduation from English, to Yonina Gomberg at [email protected] so that your loved ones can be remembered in the Ramaz Upper School as a recipient of this way. Page 12 KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN REFLECTIONS ON A KETER TORAH continued from page 4 always a parent who humbly and cards to distribute to passersby that listed the crowns found on specific letters in the unobtrusively joins us because he knows the names and numbers of people to call to Torah. He explained: the “whole Megillah” literally, and is ready protest the illegality of Gilad’s kidnapping. “The shin, ayin, tet, nun, zayin, gimmel to read wherever and to whomever. In order to hold this weekly vigil, we and tzaddi, the “SHATNEZ GATZ” are the There have been many memorable had to secure permission from the local seven letters of the Torah that have three- experiences. For example, the students police precinct, and be especially mindful pointed crowns, called tagim. The creatively set up a small area on the not to violate any of the rules for a public discussion in Shabbat yp says that when maternity floor to read to all of the women prayer vigil. We started the weekly vigil in Moshe ascended to the heavens to receive who had given birth in the previous two the fall of 2006 and continued weekly, the Torah, God was found, as it were, tying days. They have provided a welcome regardless of weather conditions, until crowns on the letters. diversion for groups of parents who were Gilad was released as part of a prisoner The Maharal explains this cryptic tending to their ill children, and our exchange in October, 2011. Talmudic passage: (Be’er Hagolah, s erp) students’ reading offered them a welcome I will never forget the flood of phone A crown indicates supremacy. It diversion, and read to Jewish calls from students who over those five rests on the uppermost point The patients who had never years had attended the vigil. They called and nothing can rise heard Megillah and from college campuses, Israeli Yeshivot above it. A king wears crown of Torah is were in awe of and even from their jobs. “Did you hear a crown to signify Morashah kehilat Yaakov - meeting teenagers the news?” they asked eagerly. “Did all the the fact that no who were kids in school know? What were we one, or no thing, is the inheritance willing to take planning to do to mark this event?” more exalted than time for I’d hang up the phone and sigh, not a he. of the Jewish people strangers to tired sigh but an exhilarated one. Our In the Torah, engage them in an students responded as written in Isaiah 6:8: certain letters have throughout the age-old tradition. tagim, crowns, to generations. This year topped hbjka hbbv ,rntu ;ubk-lkh hnu ,jkat hn-,t illustrate the Torah’s them all. One of the people Whom shall I send, and who will go for elevated status. The Torah, which we visited was Vladimir Slepak, us? Then I said: ‘Here am I; send me. represents the epitome of God’s wisdom, the courageous Russian Refusenik. Our has its letters adorned with crowns.” students are far removed from those days And a last story. Every Jew has the potential to of Soviet activism, so I gathered them This time, the kids took the lead. They internalize the values of Torah-and by together in the hallway and asked that they said: actualizing them, is spiritually elevated. Google Vladimir’s name. “We have the idea. The cause of Any sense of elevation that I’ve had was I watched as their eyes widened in awe poverty is a lack of education. We’ll write made possible by the gemilut chesed I have as they read, and a respectful hush the proposal. We’re not going to go the seen performed by our students and their descended. It just so happens that our expected route. Most of the other groups families. helpful parent-reader speaks Russian - but will propose food programs, or fulfilling Let me go back to Purim one more that’s another story. He went close to the needs of the homeless. But really, we time. Vladimir and in Russian softly explained do that already. Our Wednesday’s Ramaz students have a long standing what was about to happen. Despite his tradition of reading Megillat Esther at weakened condition, Vladimir’s piercing local hospitals. We partner with the eyes opened wide and he understood. chaplains who prepare the patient lists for The students entered the room and did KJ ANNUAL DINNER us, and intercede with hospital as they do in all the rooms: pulled the food administration on our behalf. We start the table to them, began rolling out the night with our own reading so that our parchment and recited the traditional students, ambulatory patients, visiting Shehechiyanu, which took on a new Save the Date: family members, and medical personnel meaning for them at that memorable can fulfill the mitzvah of Megillah, and reading. Saturday Night then the readers head to individual Let me tell you another story. For five patients’ rooms. years, on Wednesday mornings, as I’d November 21, 2015 Recruiting 10 boys for our round robin round the corner at Lexington Avenue and style of reading allows for them to move 40th Street, I’d try to get a glimpse of the at 8:00 pm from room to room in a fairly well sidewalk area opposite the Iranian orchestrated and reserved manner. The Mission. I always wondered if they would “Homecoming” girls accompany the readers, wearing show up, but I was never disappointed. costumes, and bringing salt free, sugar free Despite the need to be there by 7:40 - Ramaz Upper School foods in mishloach manot gift bags. This an ungodly hour for teens - our students year, one of our girls read the entire never missed this shacharit prayer vigil for 60 East 78th Street Megillah for a new mom with her newborn Gilad Shalit. I’d be schlepping the bag that listening in. held the siddurim, Israeli flags with tie We need several Megillot and there is strings, posters of Gilad, and informational KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN Page 13

REFLECTIONS ON A KETER TORAH by DeeDee Benel INVOCATION sandwich packing program services NY Common Pantry, and our AT THE 143RD ANNUAL Thursday’s Kosher City Harvest program has retrieved the leftover food from all three divisions for years. So, here’s the plan.” KJ SYNAGOGUE MEETING The students conceived of its name: “RootEd.” The cycle of poverty, they noted in their proposal, is “rooted” in not having by Rabbi Elie Weinstock educational opportunities. We were awarded the UJA Federation grant, “PovertySLAM,” and on Sundays our graduating seniors Eternal God: Tonight, as we begin our congregation’s 144th spent their free hours tutoring Bukharian high school students in the skills they’d need to succeed on the SAT exams. year, we invoke King David’s 144th Psalm. The tutorial program has been a cultural happening of sorts. Most of the Bukharian teens are first- generation Americans, and Ashrei ha-am she-kacha lo - Fortunate is the people for whom for them just coming to Manhattan was an event. The twelfth grade this is so. volunteers are top-notch students, all of whom will be attending prestigious colleges. But you’d never know about that from them. We are fortunate to welcome so many new members to our The seniors arrived on Sundays, SAT review books in hand, all congregational family and encourage them to make the most set to guide, teach and employ all the sensitivities needed to of their association for the betterment of our community. establish a supportive, non-judgmental, upbeat and educationally enriching environment for their Bukharian peers. We are fortunate to recognize the historic affiliation of our Watching our seniors jump into this situation with boundless anniversarians, who have added so much to our congregation energy and the drive to unconditionally share their knowledge and over the decades. talents is a crown of glory that radiates with goodness. The honor that you have bestowed upon me, Keter Torah, this Tonight, we also dutifully recall those within our metaphorical crown, weighs heavy on my head, in my heart, and congregational family who have passed on since last we met down deep in my neshamah, for with it comes the “burden” of even as we rededicate ourselves to preserving their memories responsibility. The union of synagogue and school, of Kehilath Jeshurun and and living by their examples. Ramaz, has been a sort of personal covenant for me - a brit that demands nothing less than all I can give, and that overarching We are fortunate for the efforts of such a dedicated leadership standard is one I have strived to achieve for this kehillah, and for and staff - including one who has kept us in check for 30 my own sense of personal mission. years. The years I have spent working with and learning from your children and with this illustrious congregation have been honor Ashrei Ha-am she-A-donai Elo-hav - fortunate is the people enough, an incomparable zechut, and the added jewel of this Keter whose God is the Lord. is an affirmation of that privilege. Thank you Audrey and Rabbi Lookstein, Rabbi Weinstock, Tonight, we are fortunate for the ability to rededicate Kenny Rochlin, Lenny Silverman, Riva Alper and every member of ourselves as a congregation that lives in accordance with KJ for the support, the challenges, the trust, the humor and the God’s teachings and that sees it as essential to be a part of the scoldings too. broader New York Jewish community. As we celebrate Shavuot, my wish is that we continue to share bikurim the - the fruits of our labor - and continue together to plant We are fortunate for another successful congregational year of and reap the harvest of blessings that comes from our collective serious prayer, , chesed, meaningful Jewish living, efforts. Rav Todot, Chag Sameach. and outreach to those not yet affiliated.

We are fortunate for continued growth while spending one final year displaced from our Main Sanctuary. ISRAEL ACTION We are fortunate for living in a time of tremendous Check out “Artzeinu” opportunity, and we pledge to use these opportunities to The Weekly Israel News Update http://artzeinu.org make a better world - especially in times of crisis, difficulty, and pain - for all of God’s children. The Artzeinu Team Elan Agus,Aliza Hornblass Ashrei ha-am she-kacha lo, Ashrei ha-am she-A-donai Elo- Jonah Hornblass, JJ Hornblass hav. Erica Schwartz Dear God: We are very fortunate, and we are most grateful. We pray for Your continued blessing in fulfilling our This site provides easy access to numerous news sources congregation’s mission of dedication to Your service, the and videos, and is well organized by general topic. Jewish people and the State of Israel, our fellow citizens, and humanity. Amen. Page 14 KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN

UJA@KJ AROUND THE COMMUNITY

s we reflect on a fantastic year of programming through before Purim to celebrate with seniors from UJA beneficiary UJA@KJ - a partnership that illustrates the power of agency Met Council. Together with NATAN@Ramaz, we helped Acollaboration and stands as a tremendous example to the package healthy and delicious mishloach manot and served larger community - we can clearly see the reach of our work. Over brunch to the seniors. The seniors loved sharing in the holiday the year of programs, more than 200 UJA@KJ volunteers have spirit with the KJ community and so appreciated the gift of helped over 300 recipients. Together, we have celebrated and mishloach manot. directly impacted the lives of underprivileged children, homeless In addition to those outstanding projects, UJA@KJ hosted an seniors, and Holocaust survivors. Through these projects, and amazing Lunch and Learn with the Holocaust survivors served by through the incredible generosity of the Selfhelp, a UJA-Federation KJ community, we have made a beneficiary agency. The seniors were difference in the lives of so many. On treated to a delicious lunch and a behalf of each individual whose lives memorable performance by the you have helped change - thank you. Ramaz Lower School choir. We kicked off the year with the first Following the performance, students annual UJA@KJ Sukkot party in the were able to spend time with the KJ sukkah with children from the JCC seniors, talking and learning about

of Canarsie - one of the UJA- their experiences. The room buzzed Federation’s beneficiary agencies. with excitement, passion, and Everyone celebrated together with inspiration. One of the seniors said, craft activities, holiday music, and “I’m 92 years old, but today I feel like games that inspired. I’m back in the Warsaw Ghetto with As we began to prepare for the my friends… I must look so old to holiday season, we hosted a delicious them, but I was once just like them, pre-Thanksgiving meal for the isolated, poor, homeless, and these kids. Such a pleasure.” mentally ill seniors at Project ORE in the East Village - a program UJA-Federation also provides an on-site social worker, Shira of UJA-Federation beneficiary agency Educational Alliance. With Felberbaum, to support the mental health and well-being of the KJ over 30 children making Thanksgiving decorations and 60 community through our Partners in Caring grant. Shira meets with volunteers of all ages serving the hot kosher meal, the seniors congregants offering short-term supportive counseling, truly felt the warm embrace of the community. As one senior said information and referral, consultation, problem-solving, and at the meal, “These kids are such mentsches - every year, they brainstorming to individuals, families, and groups in matters remind me why I love being Jewish.” In addition to this wonderful including caregiving, illness, bereavement, job loss, retirement, meal, UJA@KJ volunteered at Project ORE on several Mondays divorce, becoming ‘empty nesters’, and other significant life throughout the year. These “Mitzvah Mondays” are often the transitions. Shira also facilitates community-wide workshops that highlight of the clients’ weeks! address specific niche needs in the community such as holiday In preparation for Chanukah, UJA@KJ trekked to the West bereavement programs. Side to celebrate with the seniors at Jewish Home Lifecare, a These wonderful events were made possible thanks to our UJA-Federation beneficiary agency. Families played an dedicated UJA@KJ chairs, Rebecca Feit, Abby Kaufthal, and interactive “Human Scavenger Hunt” through which they were Nicole Meyer. For more information about the UJA@KJ able to meet many of the senior residents, and hear about their partnership and upcoming event and volunteer opportunities, lives and experiences. please feel free to contact one of our chairs or the UJA@KJ staff To round out a year of Jewish holiday programming, nearly 70 liaison, Rebecca Zimilover, at [email protected] or 212- volunteers joined us at the Ramaz Lower School on the Sunday 836-1356. We hope to see you at future events! KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN Page 15

A SENSE OF COMMUNITY by Sherri Libin continued from page 5 sometime it’s uncomfortable. I will admit In the weekly Shabbat prayers - before serves as a role model for me of what it is that sometimes when I pay a shiva call to we return the Torah to the ark, we say: to be a lay leader, and who traveled from someone I don’t know well or find out “All those who faithfully occupy Maryland with his wife, Deena, and about a friend with a serious medical themselves with the needs of the children, Devora, Ayelet, Esther, Akiva diagnosis, it is challenging to know what community, may God grant them their and Shoshana to be here today; to say or how to support them. But reward, remove them from sickness, and to my parents Meyer and Judy remember what the great Jewish preserve them in good health and forgive Berkowitz in whose footsteps I strive to philosopher Woody Allen once said, all their sins.; may He bless and prosper follow and whom I hope to make proud “Showing up is 80% of life.” Ignoring the their work and the work of all Israel their each and every day. situation won’t make it go away. brethren.” Reach out to your friends and let them On the merits of all the works of I close with the words of Rabbi Hillel, know you are here for them and are chesed and charity we do, may Hashem our great Rabbinic sage who said it best: thinking of them. Pay a shiva call and just continue to bless our Ramaz and KJ “If I am not for me, who is for me; and sit there - DON’T SAY anything. Your communities. if I am (only) for myself, what am I? And if presence is statement enough. I would be remiss at this time if I did not now, when?” Finally, I’ve learned that we, at Ramaz, not thank my family for their support: Chag Sameach. are a powerful community with the will to To my husband, Alex, who always do good. Many times, we all want to help listens and encourages me in my belief Speaker’s note: For more information each other in times of need, but don’t and endeavors; about Natan@Ramaz, please visit our website know how or where to start. Often, we My children Jacob, Noah and Elliot at: http://www.ramaz.org/about/parents- just need a place to channel our good will who inspire me to be a better person; council/natan or email us at and someone to guide us in the right My in-laws, Barry, Margery, Devora [email protected] direction. Natan@Ramaz provides that and Daniel, who offer me love and direction, and I feel privileged to be a part support; of it. My brother, Benny Berkowitz, who KJ Service Directory

For Shaatnez checking (the biblical Foremost Caterers ...... 201-664-2465 prohibition against mixed fabrics typically Judaica Classics (Doina Bryskin) ...... 212-722-4271 found in the collars of expensive men’s Rabbi Yoseph Lasdun, Tefillin and Mezuzah Checking ...... 212-927-1655 suits): Ketubot by Hand ...... 646-420-0743 Aryeh Leifert, Israel Tour Guide (U.S number, rings in Israel) ...... 720-477-6169 Kent’s Fashion House, 1596 Third Avenue McCabe’s Wine & Liquors ...... 212-737-0790 (between 89th & 90th Streets, phone: 212- Park East Kosher Butcher ...... 212-737-9800 876-0088), and they will be inspected by the Shaatnez checker. Plaza Jewish Community Chapel ...... 212-769-4400 Morris Organic Dry Cleaners and Custom Riverside Memorial Chapel ...... 212-362-6600 Tailors, 436 East 86th Street (between 1st Seasons Kosher Supermarket ...... 212-222-6332 and York Avenues), 212-828-5681, Tauber Fish Market ...... 718-338-5380 (specializing in Shaatnez testing and fixing, talitot, tzitzit)

KJ/RAMAZ CAME OUT IN FORCE ON MAY 31 FOR THE ANNUAL CELEBRATE ISRAEL PARADE

Photo Credit: Mara Lassner Page 16 KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN MY ROOKIE AIPAC POLICY CONFERENCE: A FIRST TIMER’S EXPERIENCE by Dr. Ira Davis

y journey to AIPAC began We ate Shabbat lunch with a core group of American and Israeli peace negotiators approximately one year prior to young members of the Syrian Jewish discuss the peace process. On the final day, Mthe conference when my wife, community in Brooklyn who hoped to we got to lobby our Senators and Eugenia, (in agreement with Rabbi bring more members of their community Congresswoman. I cannot think of another Lookstein’s belief in not letting school get next year. This impressed me as a great forum where you can learn so much in in the way of an education) strongly example of AIPAC recruiting a new three days. encouraged me to register my son, Jacob constituency. We sat with members of the The intangible qualities of the conference (Grade 6), and myself for the AIPAC French Jewish community on Shabbat are its true highlight. It is an opportunity conference. Not one to question my wife’s afternoon who came to learn from AIPAC for Jews in smaller communities to realize request - particularly when being and bring those lessons home. they are not alone. It is for Jews in larger encouraged to go out of town with one of We had learned so much and met communities to appreciate the breadth of my children, I immediately registered to interesting people - and the official support among Jews and non-Jews get the early bird KJ discount. conference had not yet begun. throughout the country. It shows Congress Coincidentally, Jacob’s classmate, Elan, The first day of the conference started and the Administration that Pro-Israel told him about the conference around the with a plenary session with KJ’s own Americans will take time out of their same time I made the reservation. Jacob section. It presented a great opportunity to schedule just to show up in number and thought it sounded interesting and wanted see fellow congregants outside the formal voice their bipartisan support of the to attend. setting of school and synagogue. American-Israel relationship. Since the conference started Sunday Throughout the plenary sessions, we heard It was an opportunity to watch my son morning, we decided to spend Shabbat in from leaders of Congress, the learn and participate in an environment Washington and so we registered for the Administration, and former advisers to which neither I, nor his school, could AIPAC Shabbaton. What a great Israeli prime ministers and American replicate. I am thankful that Jacob took me introduction! We heard Rabbi Steven Weil presidents. We learned about Israeli to the conference. give talks relevant to the Parsha, Purim and innovations and their impact on people’s Passover and AIPAC both tell a story of AIPAC. An AIPAC analyst lectured us on lives throughout the world. We even met delivery and redemption. Part of that story Shiites and Sunnis and Iran’s support and some of them in person. We went to is just showing up Jacob and I have influence throughout the Middle East. We smaller conferences where we heard already registered for next year’s had tasty Shabbat meals with about 500 freshman congressman across both sides of conference. God willing, you will join us. participants, in contrast to the conference the political aisle discuss their relationship Next year in Jerusalem and Washington, which would have over 16,000 attendees! with Israel and listened to former DC!

Some of the over 150 KJ/Ramaz faces who participated in AIPAC’s inspiring and informative Policy Conference, led by Audrey & Rabbi Haskel Lookstein and Rabbis Elie Weinstock, Daniel Kraus, and Roy Feldman. Join next year’s delegation! Mark your calendars now for March 20-22, 2016 KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN Page 17

My Experience at AIPAC 2015 by Jacob Davis, 7th grade, Ramaz Middle School My first day at AIPAC was phenomenal. First, I went to a homeland security bill. Instead, her staff showed up and informed general session where the speakers discussed the new bills that us about her intentions. I am definitely going to the AIPAC Congress was preparing to prevent Iran from acheiving a nuclear conference next year and I hope to see you there. capability. In the middle of the session, my dad took me out and we rode in a cab ride to tour the West Wing of the White House. Top 10 things I learned at AIPAC: When we came back, we went to our session where we saw the 1. Go with your dad, it’s good bonding. movie Beneath the Helmet, a movie where you go through a 2. People want you to understand stuff so you can explain it journey with Israeli high school students who begin their service well. in the army. In conclusion, I learned a lot at the first day of AIPAC 3. You get to hear famous and eloquent speakers. that I wouldn’t have learned in school. 4. You get to attend a concert. My second day at AIPAC was fantastic. At the general session 5. You can do other interesting things in DC. I learned all about Iran’s cheating and goals with their nuclear 6. You can meet interesting people at meals. program. PM came to give us a preview 7. Your senator or congressman can hear your voice (and see about what he would tell Congress. After general sessions were you, in person). dismissed, we went to learn about the peace arrangements 8. You learn how to follow AIPAC’s activities throughout the between Israel and Palestine. Then, we went downstairs to the year online. AIPAC village where we ate lunch. While we were there we gazed 9. You get psyched-up to learn more at next year’s AIPAC. at the Israeli innovations such as Zeekit, a computer program, 10. It’s even better with more friends! which allows you to view yourself in clothes before you buy them. At the end of the day we enjoyed a concert by Matisyahu. As a result of the second day at AIPAC, I know exactly what’s going on and how I can support what I believe. The third day at AIPAC was lobbying day. At the general session, we were instructed on what we had to do on Capitol Hill. I was lobbying Congresswoman Caroline Maloney and she was coming to the convention center. Then, everyone at AIPAC found a television screen to watch Bibi’s speech in Congress as it aired throughout the convention center. After the speech, both New York senators spoke to us in a designated room. Finally, Ms. Maloney was scheduled to arrive, but she had to vote on a

MEN’S CLUB HIGHLIGHTS

Rabbi Stephen Berkowitz of the Jewish Rabbinate in France, provided an “Update on the Jewish Community in France” on Tuesday, May 19.

Special Guest Speaker Reverend Robert Stearns, founder of Eagles Wings, was featured at a Kiddush March 22 Film Screening of “Beneath the Discussion on May 30 Helmet,” featuring remarks remarks by Amir entitled “The Face of Pro- Telem, former IDF Naval Captain. This film takes Israel Activism Today: Israel viewers inside the Israel Defense Forces and Has More Friends Than You literally “Beneath the Helmet” of its brave young Think.” soldiers. Pictured l to r: Men’s Club President Dr. Mark Meirowitz, Amir Telem, and Molly Leader, who helped coordinate the program. Page 18 KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN THE BEAUTY OF KJ SISTERHOOD: ANOTHER GREAT YEAR SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY HERE AND AFAR he 2014-2015 KJ Sisterhood programming community and in Israel. More than 150 women year ended with three wonderful events turned out to honor Brenda Bernstein, this year’s Twhich helped raise charity for the KJ Gertrude Lookstein award recipient. Brenda is community as well as organizations such as: a true example of the beauty of sisterhood. In Sharsheret, Dorot, Shalva, Project Ezra, her acceptance speech, she made special Manhattan Jewish Experience, and Nepal mention of Yvonne Koppel for her years of Earthquake Relief via Chabad Nepal. tirelessly leading the Shiva home response On April 30th we gathered for a flower team. In her honor, Brenda and her family arranging event: From Deli to Table. donated two tzedakah boxes to be used in Participants learned how to make beautiful shiva homes. floral arrangements using flowers found in Our theme this year was also inspired by local delis. The “class” was led by Jonathan the magnificent photos of our guest speaker, Baron of Baron Design Inc. and Susan Blinken, Federica Valabrega, who captures the beauty of Sisterhood board member Jewish women and of sisterhood in her work. Her and home entertaining expert. Each photos were on view at the luncheon and Federica spoke of the participant took home a beautiful inspiration behind them. arrangement for their Shabbat Many thanks to luncheon chairs Jamie Chubak and Hayley table. Corwick, as well as their committee members, for their work in Many thanks to event making the event such a success. chairs, Gabby Fridman and Planning is starting for 2015-16. If you have a programming Randi Moore. idea or would like Eighteen vendors turned out to get involved for Sisterhood Shops, our annual with the Spring Boutique. Merchandise Sisterhood included everything from designer by chairing linens and exquisite hats to colorful kippahs and fine jewelry. or hosting There were new vendors and returning ones, such as : 2 Friends, an event, Chocolate Works, Hedy’s Hat Rack, Little Luxuries, MLP Jewels you don’t and Vicxx. Thanks to Joy Kleeger, Elyse Efron and Stacey have to be a Kanbar for another great shopping experience. board member to The year’s programming concluded with the annual Spring take part: All of KJ’s women are members of the Sisterhood. Luncheon on June 1st. Our theme, “The Beauty of Sisterhood,” Please contact one of us to participate or learn more: was inspired by all of the women whose support enables the Stephanie Katz, President ([email protected]) Sisterhood to provide assistance to those in need both here in our Julie Kopel, Vice President ([email protected]) NEW PRICING STRUCTURE FOR If you think KJ COMMUNITY CATERED MEALS you know The following reflects our new Shabbaton and Holiday (Sukkot, Shavuot) Meal Pricing, what Hebrew effective 9/1/15. This is the first time in eleven School is... years that we have had to raise our prices, but the prices below are still quite reasonable for Think again! an elegant three-course meal. wBar/Bat Mitzvah Program wJewish Holidays, MEMBER PRICING Adults @ $40 per person Traditions & Heritage Juniors @ $35 per person (ages 12-18) wFamily Learning Experiences Children @ $20 per child (ages 2-11) wOne-on-one Hebrew Tutoring

NON-MEMBER PRICING Our Sunday Hebrew School is accepting fall enrollments Adults @ $45 per person Juniors @ $40 per person (ages 12-18) for children entering Kindergarten through Bar/Bat Mitzvah age. Children @ $35 per child (ages 2-11) Contact 212-794-5696 or [email protected] for more information. KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN Page 19

THE 143rd YEAR OF CONGREGATION KEHILATH JESHURUN A RETROSPECTIVE 2014-2015

SHABBAT SCHOLARS Shahar Hazani of StandWithUs wSponsorship of weekly Kiddushim wAIPAC Conference wRabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks wWho Really Wrote the Bible? wPreparations of local houses of wHistory at Home w/ Rabbi J.J. wDr. Sharon Flatto and A Mathematical Proof of Divine mourning & Mourner’s First Meal Schacter Rabbi Ysoscher Katz Authorship w/ Dr. Nick Gura wCollege Connection wKristallnacht: Converstion with wRabbi Dr. Jeremy Wieder wObama’s Negotiations with Iran: Eyewitnesses Securing or Endangering Israel? KESHER wOperation L’Hitraot Israel Pesach Trip SEUDAH SHLISHIT w/ Meir Javedanfar wShemini Atzeret Lunch wChevra Kadisha Seudah Shlishit GUEST SPEAKERS wThe Face of pro-Israel Activism wUJA@KJ wKJ Annual Dinner wSandra E. Rapoport Today: Israel has More Friends Than wShira and Friends Concert wIsrael Bond Shabbat wAri Sprung You Think w/ Rev Robert Stearns wTot Shabbat wThe Yiddish Schmoozers wDr. Sharon Goldman wCatch the Jew! w/ author Tuvia wSpring Luncheon wLunch and Learn wRabbi Ian Pear Tenenbom wNew/Expectant Moms’ wChai Mitzvah wRabbi Hayyim Angel wHow to Build a Better Business in Breakfast wSolidarity with Israel featuring Rachel wHank Sheinkopf Israel; Some Lessons from the Trenches wProgressive Dinner Frankel, Bat Galim Shaer, Iris Yifrach wSholem Greenbaum w/ Jack Zaremski Rimon wFamily Purity Shiur wWidow Connections wDavid Shipper wThe Power of the Ecosystem: Lessons with Yoetzet Dena Block wBereavement Programs wRabbi Aryeh Klapper from Apple w/ Rachel and Rabbi Daniel wShabbat Meal for New Parents wInstitute for Jewish Ideas and Ideals wSteven Ritholtz Kraus wLiving Room Learning Symposia Films: wPurim Party HOLIDAY EVENTS Honor Diaries w/ producer Richard wKaraoke Night BEGINNERS wTeshuva Shiur Green and Ryan Mauro of the Clarion wGuys Night Out wJewish Youth Connection by Rabbi Saul Berman Project wCooking Demonstrations wHoliday Workshops wShabbat Shuva Drasha wYearning to Belong w/ Producer Debra wFriday Night Live! Service & Dinners by Rabbi Haskel Lookstein Gonsher Vinik AM HASEFER featuring Rabbi Benzion Krasnianski, wSukkot Meals wReb Elimelech and the Chasidic wThe Crown of Solomon and Other IDF Colonel (Res.) Geva Rapp, KJ wPurim Mishloach Manot Legacy of Brotherhood w/ writer and Stories w/ the author Rabbi Marc Angel Yoetzet Halakhah Dena Block & Rachel wShabbat HaGadol Drasha producer Rabbi wThe Mystery of the Milton Manuscript Kraus, Rabbi Daniel Kraus, Rabbi by Rabbi Dr. Jeremy Wieder wBeneath the Helmet: From High w/ the author Barry Libin, moderated by Motti Seligson wYom Hashoah Program School to the Home Front w/ remarks Rabbi Haskel Lookstein wHebrew Reading Crash Courses wTekes Ma’avar/Yom HaZikaron by Amir Telem, former IDF Naval wViolins of Hope w/ the author James wPark Chanukah Lighting Program Captain Grymes wNJOP Shabbat Across America wYom Ha’Atzmaut Services Programming Potpourri: wSukkah Dinner Under the Stars and Bar-b-que wSearch for the Lost Jewish Cemeteries GUEST SPEAKERS wMelava Malka wShavuot Dinner & Tikkun Leyl of Shanghai and the City’s wMK Dr. Erel Magalit wPassover Seder wYom Yerushalayim Services Extraordinary Jewish Legacy wRabbi David Stav wBasic Judaism Crash Course w/ Dvir Bar-Gal wRabbi J. J. Schacter wCrash Course in Jewish History w MEN’S CLUB Dr. Stephen Stowe Annual Shabbaton wRabbi Seth Farber wModel Seder w Kiddush Discussions: Sponsorship of weekly Seudot Shlishit wRabbanit Chana Henkin wJewish Learning Institute w The Iranian Nuclear Threat, the Iranian Monthly Chug Ivri wDr. Sharon Goldman wPurim Party Jewish Community and the Iranian Supper Lectures: wDr. Daniel Pipes wPJ at KJ Pajama Havdalah w Opposition w/ Dr. Jack Caravelli and Making David into Goliath wRabbi Kenny Schiowitz Sima Mottale w/ Joshua Muravchik wMayor Bill deBlasio YOUTH ACTIVITIES w wWhat Bruce Springsteen Can Teach us Financing the Flames: How Tax- wRabbanit Dr. Ayelet Libson wTot Shabbat about Tikkun Olam w/ Dr. Adena Exempt and Public Money Fuel a wDr. Beverly Gribetz wPurim Carnival Berkowitz Culture of Confrontation and Terrorism wRabbi Eric Grossman wFall and Spring Shabbatonim wUnusual Shadows of the Chanukah in Israel w/ author Edwin Black wRabbi Warren Goldstein wOpen Gym Programs w Lights w/ Paul Shaviv Update on the Jewish Community in wRabbi Shmuel Hain wShabbat morning and afternoon wIsrael and China - Should Israel France w/ Rabbi Stephen Berkowitz wRabbi Barry Gelman Youth Groups Refocus its Strategic Alliances? wAllen Fagin wTrip to Hershey Park w/ David Goldman SISTERHOOD wRabbi Shlomo Brody wChanukah Extravaganza at Chocolate w How Water Will Determine the Future wPre-Holiday Boutiques wMs. Ilana Gadish Works w of the Middle East w/ Israel Max Book Club wRabbi Chaim Steinmetz wGlow-in-the Dark Dodgeball wCoffee and the Halakhic Process wHolistic Approach to Healthier Living wSuper Bowl Party w/ Rabbi Hayyim Angel w/ Alexandra Zohn SPECIAL EVENTS & PROGRAMS wTefillah Together w w Right Size, Supersize - Nutrition Tips Cooking Demonstration w/ Todd wSeymour Propp Memorial Lecture wTeen Minyan Ski Trip for Good Health w/ Lisa Young English wSoul Cycle w/ Rachel Kraus wTeen Minyan Challah Baking w w Women’s Learning and Leadership Flower Arranging: From Deli to Table wPrayer Series in partnership with wMusical Havdalah and Movie Nights w Across the Centuries: An Historical Museum Tours of natan@ramaz wBnei Akiva “Snif” Youth Groups and Contemporary Analysis w/ Adena SOTHEBY’S : Judaica Art Tour wYachad Shabbaton wShavuot Torah Bee Berkowitz THE JEWISH MUSEUM: Helen Rubenstein- wTorah Learning Coalition wBasketball and Softball Sports w Playwright Iddo Netanyahu discusses Beauty is Power wBlood Drive Leagues w his play A Happy End The Beauty of Sisterhood Annual wAnnual Synagogue Meeting w Israel on US Campuses and the Spring Luncheon, with photo-journalist wSimchat Torah/Shavuot Student Divrei Media: Fighting for Public Opinion w/ and author Federica Valabrega Torah Page 20 KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN

SUMMER TASTE OF TORAH AT KJ h The perfect recipe to satisfy any spiritual or intellectual appetite. Come and feast your souls! Taught by Rabbi Yossi Weiser

TUESDAYS - JULY 14, 21, 28; AUGUST 11, 18 & 25 WEDNESDAYS JULY 15, 22, 29; AUGUST 12, 19 & 26 THE BOOK OF KINGS: ELISHA - 7:00 PM JEWISH LAW & PERSONAL AUTONOMY - 7:00 PM Travel further along the First Commonwealth era as we encounter What does Halakhah demand of us? Where is there room for Elijah’s dynamic successor, examining the spiritual and physical flexibility and change? We will examine case studies from all four confrontations and dilemmas that continue to shape our lives today. sections of Shulchan Aruch (the Code of Jewish Law). Fasten your seatbelts for a fast-paced ride through 3,500 years of Jewish BEN GURION AND THE HOLOCAUST - 8:00 PM jurisprudence. The actions of the Zionist leadership during the years 1937-1945 remain a contentious topic among historians and laymen alike. STUDIES IN THE WEEKLY TORAH PORTION - 8:00 PM Using the latest research, we will try to sort through this terribly Explore the profound insights and relevance of our tradition as disturbing issue to better understand David Ben Gurion’s legacy. derived from the weekly parashah through the classical commentaries of the last 2,500 years. All classes, at 114 East 85th Street, are free of charge and do not require reservations. For more information, contact the Synagogue office at 212-774-5678. ACADEMIC HONORS continued from page 11 MICHAEL ROSENBERG, son of Sari and graduation from the Ramaz Upper School SAMANTHA SHARON, daughter of Diane Wilhelm Rosenberg, upon his graduation as a recipient of the Darkhei Noam Award and Mickey Markovitz, upon her from the Ramaz Upper School as a presented to the seniors who comport graduation magna cum laude from the recipient of the Spanish Award for themselves with inner strength and University of Pennsylvania with a BA in outstanding ability in Spanish, the congeniality. Danielle will attend Franklin Communications. Mazal Tov to proud KJ Lisolette Samuel Gorlin Award for & Marshall College in the fall. grandparents Fran and Arnold Lederman. Excellence in Mathematics for excellence in all phases of mathematics, and a Letter ILANA SCHULDER, daughter of Lu VICTORIA SPERO, daughter of Lavern of Commendation from the National Merit Steinberg and Dr. Michael Schulder upon Sullivan and Dr. Marc Spero, upon her Scholarship Program. Michael will attend her graduation from Barnard College, with graduation from the Ramaz Upper School University of Michigan in the fall. honors. Ilana received her BA in Art as a recipient of the Rabbi Joseph H. History and Visual Arts and accepted a Lookstein Memorial Award presented by GABRIEL ROTH, son of Phyllis Roth & position as a project manager at Media the Lower School for outstanding personal Red Katz and Drs. Aren & Ram Roth, Planet, a content marketing agency. growth. Victoria will attend Boston upon his graduation from the Ramaz University in the fall. Upper School, as a recipient of the Renee JEREMY SCHWARTZ, son of Anne and Sam Margareten Berger Award presented to the Schwartz, upon his graduation summa ETHAN STEIN, son of Dr. Meg Rosenblatt student who has achieved the highest cum laude from NYU Stern School of and David Stein, upon his graduation from academic average in Judaic Studies, and Business with a major in Business and Brandeis University, with honors. In the Gilda Silverman Memorial Award concentrations in Finance and Economics. addition to his BA in Computer Science, presented to the seniors who, with energy Jeremy has accepted a position as an Film, and Near Eastern Judaic Studies, and good humor, have demonstrated a analyst on the credit trading team at UBS, Ethan received The Richard Kaufman ‘58 commitment to learning as the language of beginning in the fall. Mazal Tov to proud Memorial Prize for Leadership and their daily lives. He also received the KJ grandparents Rae and Stanley Academic Excellence. This award is Harvey Blech Memorial Award for Gurewitsch. given “To a student who demonstrates excellence in the study of physics, and the leadership in campus activities and who, Rensselaer Medal. Gabriel will attend JOEY SENDERS, son of Debbie and Dr. through academic achievement, Yeshivat Orayta in the fall, and Princeton Shelly Senders, upon his graduation from exemplifies the well-rounded student who University upon his return from Israel. Fuchs Mizrachi School in . Joey is likely to have a lifelong interest in his or Mazal Tov as well to proud KJ will attend Yeshivat Netiv Aryeh in the her fellow man.” He was also the recipient grandmother Rachel Roth. fall and Yeshiva University upon his return of The Computer Science Student from Israel. Mazal Tov to proud KJ Entrepreneur of the Year Award, The Elsie DANIELLE SCHEINBERG, daughter of Stacy grandparents Audrey and Rabbi Haskel Witt Award in Jewish Studies for the and Ronald Scheinberg, upon her Lookstein. graduating senior who excels in Jewish KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN Page 21 MAY THEY GO HIGHER AND HIGHER We extend a warm Mazal Tov to the following young members of the Congregation who participated in Advancement Day Exercises as they completed the Ramaz Middle School: ELANA BERNSTEIN ARIELLA LINHART THOMAS SHEMIA daughter of Renee and Michael Bernstein daughter of Dr. Leora Mogilner son of Sara and Simon Shemia granddaughter of Eleanore Reznik and Richard Linhart grandson of Marilyn Meltzer and Sheldon granddaughter of Rochelle Mogilner Muhlbauer OLIVIA BOURKOFF daughter of Elana and Aryeh Bourkoff ESTHER MENAGED YASMINE SOKOL daughter of Anat and Louis Menaged daughter of Suzy Kamali Sokol TALIA FOUZAILOFF and Joseph Sokol daughter of Ruth and Rafael Fouzailoff JACK OTTENSOSER son of Judith and Daniel Ottensoser LIA SOLOMON ALEXANDER GLASBERG daughter of Beth Goldman son of Alisa and Dr. Scot Glasberg MICHAEL PERL and Louis Solomon son of Gail and Berndt Perl DAVID GRINBERG BROOKE STONEHILL son of Jeannette and Dr. Mikhail Grinberg daughter of Robyn Price Stonehill and David Stonehill MATTHEW GUREWITSCH son of Karen and Steven Gurewitsch DANIEL VALENCIA grandson of Rae and Stanley Gurewitsch son of Mira and Claudio Valencia

REBECCA HERSHKOWITZ HANNAH VORCHHEIMER daughter of Karen and Michael Hershkowitz SHIREEN SAKHAI daughter of Rachel and Dr. David daughter of Victoria and Daryosh Sakhai Vorchheimer DANYA JACOBS daughter of Dr. Tikva and Zalman Jacobs HARRY SHAMS MEIRA WEINSTOCK son of Alissa and Howard Shams daughter of Dr. Naama and Rabbi Elie DANIEL LEVY Weinstock son of Lisa Don AARON SHAPIRA son of Adrianne and Avi Shapira

ACADEMIC HONORS

studies, and The Frances Taylor Eizenstat ‘65 If you have a child who will be of age to Undergraduate Israel Travel Grant. Ethan delivered the enter Ramaz in September 2016, the commencement address at the Film Department Admissions Office is open for inquiries. commencement. He will attend Brandeis in the fall to pursue a master’s degree in Computer Science. Mazal Tov to proud KJ grandparents Geraldine and Moses Stein.

RAQUEL STERMAN, daughter of Dalit and Dr. Harris RAMAZ ADMISSIONS Sterman, upon her graduation from the Ramaz Upper School as a recipient of the Morris S. Arfa Keter Shem Tov Award given to the students who best exemplify the qualities and character advocated in Pirkei Avot. She also received The Rochelle Miller Sherut Award presented to the Best wishes for a safe and enjoyable summer. graduating senior who, through leadership and dedication, has generated school spirit, contributed to the community, and enhanced the quality of student life, as well a NJ Stars Scholarship and a State of New York Comptroller Award. Randy Krevat, Director of Admissions Raquel will attend Midreshet Harovah in the fall and THE RAMAZ SCHOOL University of Pennsylvania upon her return from Israel. E-mail: [email protected] Mazal Tov to proud KJ grandmother, Ann Sterman. Telephone: 212-774-8085 Fax: 212-774-8099

ANNA WAGNER, daughter of Phyllis and Jonathan Wagner, upon her graduation from Barnard College. Page 22 KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN LEARN TO DAVEN LIKE A BA’AL TEFILLAH KJYD’s Yom Ha’Atzmaut Barbecue - Fun for All Ages!

Rabbi Haskel Lookstein’s 10 Nusach recordings Our community gathered to designed to help people learn how to be a shaliach tzibbur celebrate Yom ha’Atzmaut at KJ’s at daily services, Shabbatot, holidays, Annual Barbecue. Creatively Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur and selichot around the year, organized by KJYD director Aryana are available free of charge on the Ramaz website at www.Ramaz.org/nusach Ritholtz, the festivities included a krav maga (Israeli martial arts) There is no better time than now to avail yourself demonstration and numerous art of this wonderful opportunity! projects. Young and old enjoyed delicious barbecue with a side of popular Israeli music! A HIGH HOLY DAY SERVICE UNLIKE ANY OTHER! Introducing a Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur Service for those in search of a more informative and inspirational experience: K Prayers and Rituals Explained The services on Rosh K Biblical Insights Hashanah morning willl be held on K Historical Overviews Monday and Tuesday, K Great Kiddush September 14th and K Congregational Readings 15th at 8:00 AM. Kol and Singing Nidre services will be Photo Credit: Yossi Hoffman K Over 100 Shofar Blasts held at 6:20 PM on Tuesday night, September 22nd followed by Yom K Questions and Answers Kippur services at 9:00 AM the next INTERGENERATIONAL Services will be conducted at the morning. LEARNING EXPERIENCE Ramaz Middle School’s Lindenbaum Gymnasium For Information Contact: ’s Lunch and Learn participants Gottesman Center 212-774-5678 went back to high school on 114 East 85th Street or KJMay 6 when they joined the (between Lexington & Park Avenues) Beginners @ckj.org Ramaz Upper Tickets only $60 School 11th grade Honors Talmud class for a study session led by Rabbi Yigal Sklarin. LEARN HEBREW IN TIME FOR THE HIGH HOLY DAYS! Participants divided up into chavrutot Our Crash Course in Hebrew Reading and our Intermediate (study groups) and studied the story in the Hebrew Class will have you reading better in time for Rosh Hashanah. Talmud about Rabbi Taught by master teacher Sara Rosen, these classes are perfect for Shimon bar Photo cr those who have no background or as a review for those who wish to Yochai and his brush up on their skills. experiences edit: Rabbi Y learning Co-sponsored by NJOP Torah in the

Six Tuesdays beginning August 4 cave. It was igal Sklarin Crash Course at 6:30 PM and Intermediate Hebrew at 7:30 PM a wonderful learning at the Gottesman Center, 114 East 85th Street opportunity for all those who participated. KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN Page 23 Before the Yom Ha’Atzmaut Celebration BNEI MITZVAH Comes Remembering t was a labor of love coordinated by performed by Ramaz students Rebecca DeeDee Benel, Director of Silverman and Ben Emmerich, and was ICommunity Service and Outreach at followed by a processional of 17 military the Ramaz Upper School, and unit flags from Israel carried KJYD director Aryana by Ramaz students. They Ritholtz: A program that stood at attention as Rabbi modeled itself after the way Elie Weinstock recited the

JACK FISHER Mazal Tov to Nicole and Jeffrey Fisher upon the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Jack, this past April. Jack read Shir Hashirim over Passover in Jerusalem as well as Parashat Shemini and Haftarat Machar Chodesh on Shabbat, April 18th at KJ. Mazal Tov as well to proud KJ grandmother Shirley Boyarsky. Jack is entering the eighth grade at the Ramaz Middle School.

Yom haZikaron and Yom special memorial prayer for ha’Atzmaut are observed in the fallen soldiers of the State the State of Israel: a tekes of Israel. After this poignant ma’avar, a ceremony that moment, Captain Telem transitions from mourning announced the transition from Israel’s fallen soldiers to the sadness of Memorial Day JOSEPH KAPLAN celebrating its independence. to the celebration of Israel Mazal Tov to Jennifer and Michael Kaplan It began with the two-minute Independence Day and the upon the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Joseph, Memorial Day siren for which program ended with a rousing which will take place on August 20-22, in everyone stood in silent performance of everyone’s Jerusalem where he will read Parashat Shoftim. Joseph will also be reading Parshat reflection. The highlights of favorite Israeli songs as Netzavim at KJ on September 12. Joseph is the program included Captain performed by four soldiers entering the eighth grade at the Ramaz Amir Telem of the Israeli from Friends of the Israel Middle School. Navy who spoke movingly Defense Forces that brought about his war experiences and everyone to their feet. While paid tribute to a friend and it is said that a picture is B’tayavon, Battalion Shaked! pilot, Tom Farkash, who was worth 1,000 words, the photos killed in a combat mission. below capture only a small There was a special candle- portion of the emotion and lighting ceremony and the elation that were part of that song Million Kochavim, photo credit: Yossi Hoffman night. written about Tom, was oldiers of Shaked Battalion 424 were greeted by the sight and Saroma of the Chanukah treat, sufganiyot (jelly donuts), thanks to a contribution made by the KJ Youth Department. It was a welcome sight as the soldiers made their way from guard duty to the dining hall. Page 24 KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN TAKING IT TO THE STREET NAVIGATING YOUR MIND, by Rabbi Elie Weinstock n Shabbat afternoon, May 30, thanks to the inspired thinking of Rabbi Elie BODY AND JEWISH SOUL: A Weinstock, the planning of Rabbi Daniel Kraus and their love of Am Yisrael, PANEL DISCUSSION FOR THE Odozens of KJ volunteers brought Shabbat to the Third Avenue Street Fair with DIFFERENT PHASES OF THE a Shabbat booth. Thousands of people stopped by to enjoy free challah rolls, rugelach, lollipops, and MODERN JEWISH WOMAN ice cold water (conveniently distributed A discussion for women only in reusable plastic bottles featuring with the KJ logo). Dozens KJ Yoetzet Halakhah Dena Block of people took the time to Dr. Judy Schwartz, ObGyn make Kiddush - some for and the first time and others Sex Therapist Rachel Hercman, who hadn’t done so for decades. Numerous LCSW berachot were recited, and lots of questions about Tuesday, July 14 Judaism were answered. 7:30 p.m. Our 6-foot long challah Graciously hosted by Esther Kremer

Location provided with RSVP to [email protected]

strategically placed right in the middle of Third Avenue Fun Times With Kesher was a huge draw. As the day ended, a crowd How many challah rolls and rugelach does it take to feed a Street Fair? Purim Chesed Program! Karaoke gathered around to sing Night! Cooking Demonstrations! V’shamru Bnei Yisrael et Ha-Shabbat as Rabbi Weinstock recited Kiddush and HaMotzi Here’s a peek at some of the great and the entire challah was devoured. It was a beautiful Shabbat table (with Birkat Kesher programming over the past HaMazon even recited out loud), and the whole effort was a true Kiddush HaShem. few months: The impact of the afternoon can be appreciated from the following story: KJ members were walking in Central Park in the late afternoon. They noticed that the couple in front of them were carrying our distinctive blue water bottles with the KJ logo that were distributed at the street fair. The couple was talking about how nice it was for a synagogue to be out in the street giving out refreshing cold water and sharing Shabbat. While not affiliated themselves, they commented, “Maybe that is a synagogue that we should check out.” We can never underestimate the power of sharing the love. See you in shul, or maybe at the next Street Fair!

COMING SOON....

CRASH COURSE IN BASIC JUDAISM

Wednesdays, September 2 and 9, 7:00 PM

Explore Judaism’s views on Belief in God, Prayer, Shabbat, Jewish Observance, and Sexuality. Perfect for beginners or those wishing to brush up on basic Jewish concepts. Taught by Rabbi Elie Weinstock. KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN Page 25 In Memoriam

ALAN APPLEBAUM their marriage, but especially in these last completing their Ramaz education. Alan Applebaum, a longtime member years when he was a little weaker. He was In addition to her great devotion to her of the congregation, passed away in his a loving father to Jordan and Barbara and family, Belda was an indefatigable early seventies. His wife, Lillian, was he was very proud of both of them as they advocate for women’s rights to leadership incredibly devoted to him throughout their pursued their professional careers. roles and ritual responsibilities in the married life, especially in the last period of He left a legacy of “hard work, Jewish community. She was nothing less his life. She took care of him with honesty, humility, helping and educating than a heroine in the support of women’s extraordinary devotion. She also came to others” and a lifelong love of Judaism and Torah education on the highest level and shul morning and evening during the week the Jewish people. guaranteeing the rights of women in of shiva and said kaddish in his memory. Jewish divorce law. Alan was consistently generous to both MARIA FINKLE We extend our heartfelt condolences to KJ and Ramaz. He never failed to A Jewish grande dame passed away Marcel, to Nathan and Shari, to Matthew contribute with exceptional generosity to very close to her 100th birthday. She was and Ray, to Bennett and Rebecca, to the Annual Synagogue Appeal and to other a humble aristocrat, a model of what a Victoria and Daniel Feder, to Abigail and appeals to help people in need. He simply Jewish woman can be, the quintessential Shai Tambor, to her brother and sister-in- could be relied upon to respond when Eishet Chayil. When you think of Maria law, Gerald S. Kaufman and Judy called upon to do so. He especially loved Finkle, you think of an exquisitely set table Kaufman, and to her sister and brother-in- to give generously to our Benevolent with friends, neighbors, rabbis and law, Carol and Melvin D. Newman. Fund. communal leaders seated all around, with He gave a generous gift to Ramaz/KJ Maria at the head of the table. MORRIS WYSZOGROD 2010, the fund which has enabled us to She was a ba’alat tzedakah on the What a treasure he was for KJ! A rebuild our synagogue and to completely highest level. Together with her wonderful survivor of the Warsaw Ghetto, he carried reconstruct the Lower School building of husband, Joel, of blessed memory, she his Holocaust experience with him Ramaz. He was especially proud of that gave generously to Bar Ilan University, constantly, but he had the most optimistic commitment. Yeshiva University, Shaare Tzedek and nature and the most beautiful smile which Unassuming in nature, he made friends Ramaz, among many other worthy Jewish was the center of his radiant countenance. with some of the people who sat around institutions. At Ramaz, she and Joel He raised two children in Ramaz, one him in shul which he attended on the established the Zachary Dan Finkle of whom lives in Israel with her husband holidays. He loved KJ and its rabbis and Memorial Scholarship in memory of her and three sons, all of whom have he felt blessed to be part of our beloved son, who passed away at an early completed service in the IDF. His congregation. We, in turn, felt blessed by age. Her response to every request was: knowledge of Yiddish enabled him to him. “Yes!” become a translator at the JDC offices in SAM CINER Our Jewish world was illuminated by Israel in his retirement. During his He moved into our neighborhood less this matriarch. She set a magnificent lifetime, he was a graphic artist and it was than ten years ago, but it seems like Sam example of a worthy life which she he who designed many special awards and Ciner was a member of the KJ community humbly modeled for us all. certificates for KJ and created the Koof Yud for decades. So many of us got to know symbol that is still the graphic trademark him and love him. He was a stalwart at our of our congregation. morning and afternoon minyanim and, of BELDA LINDENBAUM He was a proud and loyal Jew who course, a regular worshipper on Shabbat Belda Kaufman Lindenbaum, an davened with a minyan every morning and holidays. He absolutely loved our shul alumna of Ramaz, passed away at the age here in America and then, after he made and our community. of seventy-six. She was married to Marcel , in Israel. His wife, Helen, of Listening to his son, Dr. Jordan M. Lindenbaum, himself a Ramaz alumnus. blessed memory, herself a survivor, was Ciner, our member, deliver his eulogy, we Their five children are all Ramaz alumni his great, life’s companion who supported found out things about him that we never and several of their grandchildren are him in an equally heroic life. knew. Together with his father, he was a students in the school. Belda was a Vice- passionate New York Giants fan whose President and founding Board member of favorite player was Willie Mays. He was the Jewish Orthodox Feminist Alliance also a gifted baseball player himself who (JOFA) and a founding Board member of “fielded and hit with a lot of grace.” Yeshivat . She and Marcel ase,hu ksd,h He was married to our member, Hindy dedicated Midreshet Lindenbaum Ciner, for forty-nine years and the two of (formerly known as Brovender’s) a tcr vna them were a very special couple. Hindy women’s in Jerusalem to which took extraordinary care of Sam throughout many Ramaz alumnae have gone after Page 26 KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN WITHIN OUR FAMILY BIRTHS Audrey and Gary Menachem upon the birth Olshan, son of Carole and Morton Olshan of Mazal Tov to: of a grandson. New York. Eve and Sammy Attias upon the birth of their Raquel and E. Magnus Oppenheim upon the Adi Goldberg and Adir Feifel, our Bnei Akiva second granddaughter, Adiella Netzach, born to birth of a grandson, Yair David Aryeh, born in shlichim, upon their engagement. their children, Annaelle and Dr. Jakob Nowotny. Jerusalem to their children, Michal and Chaim Andrea and Dr. Robert Meislin upon the Henchy and Jerry Balsam, upon the birth of Cohen. His brit was on Yom Yerushalayim. engagement of their daughter, Rachel, to Marc their first child and daughter, Sarah Molly Samantha and Lee Podolsky upon the birth of Ohringer, son of Sheryl Bloom Ohringer and (Sarah Malia). their fourth child and second daughter, Ruby Barry Ohringer of Woodland Park, NJ. Mazal Sara Rubenstein and Yariv Ben-Ari upon the Gabrielle (Zahava Gavriella). Mazal Tov to Tov as well to the proud KJ grandmother of the birth of their second child and first son, Adam proud KJ grandparents Sharon and Jay bride, Monica Meislin. Jonathan. Podolsky. Sue and Irwin Robins upon the engagement Russie and Jeffrey Berger upon the birth of Nicole and Marco Sardar upon the birth of of their Israeli grandson, Amichai Goldstein, to their second child and daughter, Orly Yaelle. their first child and son, Raymond (Rachamim). Gali Taragin, daughter of Rabbi Moshe and Beth and Ronald Bernard, upon the birth of Mazal Tov as well to proud KJ grandparents Atara Taragin of . their second grandchild, Charlotte Eden (Yaffa Terry and Michael Jaspan. Dr. Shaun Steigman, son of Carole Shulman, Eden), born to their children Ivy and Gregory Janie and Robert Schwalbe upon the birth of upon his engagement to Dr. Yaffa Vitberg, Levi. their 11th grandchild, the fourth child and third daughter of Gail and Martin Vitberg of Setauket, Arielle and Adam Brenner upon the birth of daughter, Bella Naomi (Naomi Eliana), born to NY. their first child and daughter, Sydney Juliet their children Aliza and Joshua Schwalbe. May their weddings take place in happiness (Hadassah Ilana). Mazal Tov as well to proud Judy and Isaac Sherman upon the birth of a and blessing. KJ grandparents Ruth and Ray Brenner. great grandson, Jonah Zachary (Yakir Z’eev), Caroline and Jordan Bryk, upon the birth of born to their grandchildren Drs. Jennifer and MARRIAGES their first child and daughter, Margaux Juliet Adam Yedlin. Mazal tov as well to the baby’s Mazal Tov to: (Miriam Dorit). Mazal Tov as well to proud KJ 100 year-old great-great-grandmother, Florence Eve and Sammy Attias upon the marriage of grandparents: Dr. Eli and Laurie Bryk, first-time Cohen. their son, Joseph, to Shiran Beroukhim, daughter grandparents Judy and David Lobel, and great- Nechi Shudofsky upon the birth of two great- of Naomi and Benny Beroukhim of Rockville, grandmother Esther Lobel. grandsons in Israel. Maryland. Helen and Ruby Davis upon the birth of a Evelyn and Avi Spodek upon the birth of their Brenda and Albert Bernstein upon the grandson, Dov Ber, born to their children, Erica second child and son, Jack Stephen (Yaakov upcoming marriage of their grandson, Jeremy and Josh Elsant. Yeshaya). Rumeld, to Ariela Zenilman, daughter of Maylin Dr. Cheryl Fishbein and Philip Schatten upon Rebecca and Gabriel Tramiel upon the birth and Dr. Michael Zenilman of Lawrence. Jeremy the birth of a grandson, Lazlo Murray (Layzer of their first child and daughter, Chaya Bracha. is the son of Elysee and Myron Rumeld. Moshe), born to their children Erica Fishbein Shahla and Barry Weiner upon the birth of Laurie and Jacques Blinbaum, upon the and Jeffrey Newelt. their grandson, Jagger Louie (Lev Melech), born marriage of their daughter, Julie, to Ethan Zella and Dr. Glenn Goldfinger upon the birth to their children Ethel and Jonathan Weiner. Marcovici, son of Etella and Haim Marcovici. of a grandson, David Bezalel Svi, son of Marla Mattie and Rabbi Yossie Weiser upon the Daniel Cleiman upon his marriage to Meghan and Justin Goldfinger of Neve Daniel. birth of twin granddaughters, Rachel Frumet and Schloat. Wendy and Sholem Greenbaum upon the Leah Miriam, born to their children Tamar and Shelley and Martin Kaufman upon the birth of their second grandchild, Abraham Wolf Chaim Yitzchak Weiser. marriage of their son, David Kaufman, to Anne (Avraham Ze’ev), born to their children, Sima May these children grow up in the finest Betty Zaks, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Allen and David Gross. tradition of Torah, chupah, and maasim tovim. Zaks of Verona, NJ. Mazal Tov to proud KJ Lynnette Gruenhut upon the birth of a grandmother Hannah Low. granddaughter, Shirley Kaye (Shir-li Chaika) BNEI MITZVAH Adam Struck upon his marriage to Angela born to her children, Johanna (Jojo) Gruenhut Mazal Tov to: Gould. and Jonathan Flombaum. Anne and David Bergman upon the Bar Sarah and Mark Tarnofsky upon the marriage Elise and Daniel Kasell upon the birth of twin Mitzvah of their son, Jacob, who read the Torah of their daughter, Danielle, to Jason Amirian, boys, Theodore Wolin (Yehuda Shia) and and Haftarah for Parashat Shemini, and then led son of Edna and Saeed Amirian of Kings Point. Nathaniel Sid (Natanel Tzvi). Mazal Tov as well the Musaf service as well. to proud KJ grandfather Dr. Harvey Wolinsky. Sharon and Asher Levitsky upon the Bar MILESTONES Shelley and Martin Kaufman upon the birth Mitzvah of their grandson, Zachery Markowitz, Congratulations to: of a grandson, Charles Thomas (Reuven son of their daughter, Lily Levitsky. Rosie and Dr. Mark Friedman upon the Tuviah), born to their children Danielle and Judy and Dr. Robert Podell upon the Bar celebration of the 90th birthday of Rosie’s Steven Herbst. Mazal Tov as well to proud KJ Mitzvah of their grandson, Marc Fishkind, son mother, Jean Gluck of Forest Hills. great-grandmother Hannah Low. of Ari and Dr. Debbie Fishkind ( ‘88). Dr. Laura and Daniel Levin upon the birth of COMMUNAL HONORS their third child and son, Solomon Emet ENGAGEMENTS Congratulations to: (Shlomo Emet). Mazal tov as well to the proud Mazal Tov to: Tova Bulow upon dedicating the Rosh KJ grandparents, Caryl and Israel Englander. Beth and Marc Bengualid upon the HaYeshiva chair at Yeshivat Chovevei Torah in Miriam and Aaron Levine upon the birth of engagement of their daughter, Elana, to Jack memory of her beloved husband, Norman their first child and son, Gabriel Joshua. Mazal Harary, son of Rochelle and Eli Harary of Bulow, at the YCT Dinner on May 18. Tov as well to proud KJ grandparents Esther and Brooklyn. Rosie (‘68) and Dr. Mark Friedman upon their Ira Krawitz. Riva Alper and Joe Bierman upon the children, Yael (‘01) and Pinny Farkas, being Georgie and Rabbi Joshua Lookstein upon the engagement of their daughter, Sarah, to Daniel honored as Parents of the Year and receiving the birth of their second child and first son, Oliver Wallis, son of Sharon and Dr. Barry Wallis of Keter Shem Tov award at the Third Annual Joseph (Elimelech Yosef). Mazal Tov as well to Manchester, England. Dinner of Beit Yaakov Ateret Miriam of Far the proud KJ grandparents, Audrey and Rabbi Claire Distenfeld, daughter of Rita and Fred Rockaway, Queens. Yael is a former teacher at Haskel Lookstein. Distenfeld, upon her engagement to Michael Ramaz. KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN Page 27 WITHIN OUR FAMILY Stacy Kanbar, upon becoming Chair of Ruth and Dr. David Musher upon the where he was awarded a Ph.D. degree in Near Amit’s NewGen Board 2015-2017, and to the publication ( Press) of their daughter, Eastern Studies. following KJ members who will serve with her Professor Sharon Ann Musher’s new book, Ryan Schwab, son of Ronit and Lawrence on that Board: Deborah Ash, Tammi Cleeman, Democratic Art: The New Deal’s Influence on Schwab, upon his graduation, cum laude, from Linda Esses, Gabby Fridman, Amy Haber, Lani American Culture. Technion Medical School in Haifa, Israel. Ryan Kollander, Laury Paul, Ronnie Slochowsky, Jacob Olidort, son of Nadia and Joseph will begin his residency in New York. and Lizzy Straus. The following members will Olidort, upon contributing to a Brookings blog Abigail Shay, daughter of Susan and Scott be serving on the Board of Directors for the on the question of whether Quietist Salafism Shay, upon receiving the Maimonides Award same term: Deena Shiff, Audrey Trachtman, can be seen as an antidote to ISIS. for Outstanding Student in Jewish Studies and Naomi Max, Joyce Straus, Laurie Bryk, Raquel and E. Magnus Oppenheim, upon Limudei Kodesh at American Hebrew Audrey Lookstein, and Robyn Price Stonehill. their son Yoni Oppenheim being named to the Academy. Dr. David Musher upon receiving an prestigious “36 Under 36” in The Jewish Week. Dr. Meg Rosenblatt and David Stein upon honorable mention at the annual meeting of the He is the co-founder of 24/6: A Jewish Theater their daughter Natalie’s acceptance to the Committee for Accuracy in Middle East Company, and has been adapting classical accelerated joint MPH/MBA program at the Reporting in America (C.A.M.E.R.A.) for his theater to address issues unique to the Jewish Yale School of Public Health and the Yale letter writing on behalf of Israel. community since 2010. School of Management. She begins her studies Elissa and Dan Ordan upon being honored Susan Rand DDS, who has transitioned this summer. by Drisha at their 36th Anniversary Dinner. formally from her Dental career and obtained Hannah Vorchheimer, daughter of Rachel Sarah Tanz Rich, daughter of Judy Tanz, her New York State Real Estate License. She is and Dr. David Vorchheimer, upon her upon receiving the Young Leadership Award at working with Bond New York in New York graduation from the Ramaz Middle School the Stamford, Connecticut’s Bi-Cultural Day City. Susan can be contacted at 917-373-9203 where she received the Nathaniel Rand Keter School Dinner. or [email protected]. Shem Tov Award. She will attend SAR High Dr. Judith W. Schwartz upon being honored Phyllis Furman Wagner upon receiving the School in the fall. by the Columbia/Barnard Hillel Kraft Center of Malcolm S. Forbes Public Awareness Award Lauren Wagner, daughter of Phyllis and Jewish Life at the Siexas Award. for Excellence in Advancing Financial Jonathan Wagner, upon her graduation from Understanding from the Financial Planning Fordham Law School. She will join PROFESSIONAL AND PERSONAL Association of New York. O’Melveny & Myers in the fall. ACHIEVEMENTS Dr. Ruth Wisse, Yiddish scholar and literary Grace Weil upon her grandson Raffi Sturm’s Congratulations to: and social critic, who delivered the keynote graduation from Florida Atlantic University Fran and Benjy Brown upon their son, address at Yeshiva University’s 84th Medical School. Raffi is the son of Drs. Esther Daniel, receiving the American Bar Commencement Ceremony. and Heshy Sturm of Toronto. Mazal Tov as Association’s Pro Bono Publico Award for Matthew Zimmerman upon being named well to Raffi’s wife, Carly, upon receiving her litigation successes on behalf of the disability Clinical Director of Lexington Avenue Masters in Social Work one week later. community of New York City. Chiropractic and Nutrition. Grace Weil upon her grandson Josh Sturm’s Yosef Friedman (‘04) , of Jerusalem, son of graduation from York University with a Rosie and Dr. Mark Friedman upon publishing ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS Bachelor’s degree in Business. He is the son of a review (kuntress) of the Sefer Tiferet Shlomo Congratulations to: Drs. Esther and Heshy Sturm of Toronto. written by Rabbi Shlomo Rabinovitch, the Dina and Jacques Farhi upon the graduation Radomske . It is being sold in book of their daughter, Talia Farhi Sadres, from the CONDOLENCES stores in Jerusalem. College of New Rochelle with a Masters of Our condolences to: Meyer Gross upon being initiated into Tau Science in Education. Raanan Agus, upon the passing of his father, Beta Pi, the national engineering academic Sue and Dr. Norman Javitt upon the Saul Agus. honorary fraternity at Cornell University in graduation of their grandson, Matthew Javitt, Karen Benson, upon the passing of her recognition of his undergraduate academic son of the Drs. Marcia and Jonathan Javitt of father, Marty Fohrman. achievements. Zichron Yaakov, from the Edmund A. Walsh Deborah Born and Judith Weiss, upon the Dr. Nick Gura, whose book Divine Wisdom School of Foreign Service, Georgetown passing of their father, Benjamin Hammerman. and Warning: Decoded Messages From God, University, with a B. S. degree cum laude with Helen Davis, upon the passing of her will be published in June. It uses gematria (a honors in the Science, Technology and brother, Dr. Louis Janowski. system of numerology that assigns numerical International Affairs major. Janet Fried, upon the passing of her brother, value to a word or phrase) to reveal hidden Sue and Dr. Norman Javitt upon the Irwin Cutler. messages within both Biblical and modern graduation of their grandson, Zachary Javitt, Michele Hering and William Slochowsky, Hebrew. The mathematically generated son of the Drs. Marcia and Jonathan Javitt, upon the passing of their mother, Sydelle messages answer questions such as: Why are from the School of General Studies, Columbia Slochowsky. we here? Who wrote the Bible? What does anti- University, and the Albert A. List College of Hon. Judy Kluger, upon the passing of her Semitism actually represent? Jewish Studies, Jewish Theological Seminary, mother, Olga Harris. Dr. Mark Meirowitz upon moderating and with a B. A. degree from each institution. Paula Menche and Sandy Goldwyn, upon organizing the International Conference KJ Director of Community Education Rabbi the passing of their father, Abraham Pilchik. Commemorating the 100th Anniversary of the Daniel Kraus upon receiving his MBA from Robert Podell, upon the passing of his sister, NYU Stern School of Business. Gallipoli Campaign, co-sponsored by the Sharon Weiskopf. Yehuda Magid (‘02), son of Sandy and Dr. Turkish, Australian and New Zealand Sheera Aranoff Tuchman, upon the passing Norman Magid, upon his February 2015 consulates on April 16. of her brother, Jonathan Aranoff. Lee Miller upon being elected to the Emory graduation from the Zicklin School of May they be comforted among all those who University Board of Trustees for a 6-year term Business at Baruch College with an MS in as an Alumni Trustee. Lee is a 1982 graduate Quantitative Modeling. mourn for Zion and Jerusalem. of the Emory School of Law, having received Nadia and Joseph Olidort, whose son, Jacob, her BA, cum laude, from the University of successfully defended his doctoral dissertation Pennsylvania. and graduated from Princeton University, Page 28 KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN

KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN Non-Profit Congregation Kehilath Jeshurun U.S. POSTAGE PAID DEDICATE 125 East 85th Street NEW YORK, N.Y. New York, NY 10028-0928 PERMIT NO. 2200 Members of the Congregation and others are invited to honor a friend or relative, celebrate a milestone event or memorialize a loved one by dedicating Chumashim or Siddurim.

CHUMASHIM - $45 each SIDDURIM - $25 each

Call Riva Alper Are you receiving your KJ Bulletin late in the mail? Are you receiving double copies of the Bulletin? at 212-774-5670 We need to know! Please e-mail [email protected] or call 212-774-5670.

In preparing the Bulletin, we welcome all KJ members’ announcements of communal, academic and professional achievements. Please e-mail [email protected] or mail it to the synagogue, marked “ATTN: KJ Bulletin” KEHILATH JESHURUN BULLETIN Congregation Kehilath Jeshurun SHABBAT SCHEDULE 125 East 85th Street, New York, NY 10028 212-774-5600 Friday Saturday Lighting Evening Afternoon Sabbath Synagogue Officials of Candles Services Services Ends Haskel Lookstein ...... Rabbi Elie Weinstock ...... Associate Rabbi July Rabbi Daniel Kraus & Rachel Kraus 3-4 Balak 8:13 PM 6:45 PM 8:10 PM 9:14 PM ...... Directors of Community Education 10-11 Pinchas 8:11 PM 6:45 PM 8:05 PM 9:12 PM Hayyim Angel ...... Rabbinic Scholar 17-18 Mattot-Masei 8:07 PM 6:45 PM 8:00 PM 9:07 PM Roy Y. Feldman ...... Assistant Rabbi 24-25 Devarim 8:02 PM 6:45 PM 2:30 PM 9:00 PM Rabbi Dr. Jeremy Wieder ...... Scholar-in Residence August Mayer Davis ...... Cantor Leonard Silverman . . .Executive Director 31-1 Vaet’chanan 7:55 PM 6:45 PM 7:45 PM 8:53 PM 7 - 8 Ekev 7:48 PM 6:45 PM 7:35 PM 8:43 PM Officers of the Congregation 14-15 Re’eh 7:37 PM 6:45 PM 7:25 PM 8:32 PM Joel Katz ...... President 21-22 Shoftim 7:27 PM 6:45 PM 7:15 PM 8:22 PM Elias Buchwald ...... Vice President 28-29 Ki Tetze 7:17 PM 6:45 PM 7:05 PM 8:10 PM Surie Sugarman ...... 2nd Vice President David Lobel ...... 3rd Vice President Dr. Philip Wilner . . . . .4th Vice President September Morris Massel ...... Secretary 4-5 Ki Tavo 7:05 PM 6:45 PM 6:55 PM 7:59 PM Jonathan Wagner ...... Treasurer 11-12 Nitzavim 6:54 PM 6:45 PM 6:40 PM 7:48 PM Sidney Ingber ...... Assistant Treasurer Evan Farber ...... Financial Secretary JJ Hornblass ...... Recording Secretary SCHEDULE OF SERVICES Weekday mornings…………..7:30 AM Sunday mornings……………..8:30 AM Past Presidents Mondays and Thursdays……..7:15 AM Rosh Chodesh Weekdays…….7:00 AM Benjamin Brown Fred Distenfeld Shabbat mornings…………….9:00 AM Chaim Edelstein Samuel Eisenstat Eric Feldstein Stanley Gurewitsch EVENING SERVICES Affiliate Presidents July 1 - July 16...... 6:50 PM July 19 - September 11...... 6:45 PM Stephanie Katz . . . . .President, Sisterhood Julie Kopel . . . .Vice President, Sisterhood Dr. Mark Meirowitz . . .Pres., Men’s Club DATES TO REMEMBER Gealia Friend ...... President, Kesher Margot Marans ...... President, Kesher Friday, July 3 Friday, July 17 Saturday-Sunday, August 15-16 Elizabeth Savetsky . . . .President, Kesher Morning Services at 8:30 AM Rosh Chodesh Av Rosh Chodesh Elul Morning Services at 7:00 AM Sunday Morning Services at 8:30 AM Office Staff Sunday, July 5 Riva Alper ...... Administrator Fast of 17th of Tammuz Saturday-Sunday, July 25-26 Monday, September 7 Rudy Arjune ...... Superintendent Fast begins 4:18 AM Fast of Tisha B’Av (See schedule p.3) Morning Services at 8:30 AM Aryana Bibi Ritholtz ...... Youth Director Morning Services at 8:30 AM Saturday Night Services at 9:15 PM Myriam Bostwick ...... Director of Evening Services at 8:05 PM Fast Begins at 8:19 PM Communications and New Media Fast Ends at 9:11 PM Sunday Morning Services at 8:30 AM Dina Farhi ...... Executive Assistant Sunday Night Services at 7:50 PM Shira Felberbaum ...... Social Worker Fast ends at 8:56 PM Hattie Murphy ...... Comptroller Sy Yanofsky ...... Assistant Comptroller Esther Zarnel ...... Program Associate