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JewishA publication of the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires, serving V the Berkshires and surrounding ice NY, CT and VT Vol. 23, No. 7 Elul 5775-Tishri 5776 September 4 to October 13, 2015 jewishberkshires.org The Yiddish Book Center’s Next Art Inspired by Judaism, Nature, Great Adventure and Sacred Responses of the Spirit Founder Aaron Lansky to Discuss Plans to Deepen, Re-Energize, and Re-Imagine Contemporary Jewish Culture at Knosh & Knowledge, Sept. 25

Aaron Lansky GREAT BARRINGTON – On Friday, strategy to place the greatest Yiddish September 25, Knosh & Knowledge library ever assembled at the finger- A working artist for five decades, weaver Wendy Rabinowitz says that presently will host Aaron Lansky, founder and tips of every computer, tablet, and 90 percent of her output incorporates Jewish themes, imagery, and calligraphy. president of the Yiddish Book Center in smartphone user on the planet. Other Above, her mixed-media creation “The Burning Bush: Ehyeh Asher Ehyeh.” For Amherst, who will deliver a talk titled initiatives include a plan to train young more on the Pittsfield artist’s work and creative process, please see page 32. “What To Do With What We’ve Found: people to translate the 98 percent of A Blueprint for the Yiddish Book Yiddish books currently inaccessible to Center’s Next Great Adventure.” This English readers, plus educational pro- Jewish Federation of the Berkshires grams designed to deepen, re-energize, Body and Soul: Documentary program will take place at Hevreh of and re-imagine contemporary Jewish Southern Berkshire at 10:45 a.m., and culture. Examines Jewish Ties to the Land will be followed by lunch. About the Yiddish Book Center As the Yiddish Book Center turns 35 years old, Lansky will offer an ex- After graduating from Hampshire of Israel citing preview of the museum’s latest College in 1977 with a BA in modern PITTSFIELD – On plans, which include an audacious YIDDISH BOOK CENTER, October 14, the continued on page 5 Jewish Federation of the Berkshires, in collaboration Novelist Letty Cottin Pogrebin to with Berkshire Hills Hadassah, Talk About Intermarriage and will screen the documentary Body Preserving Jewish Tradition at the and Soul – The State of the Jewish October 9 Knosh & Knowledge Nation at the Berk- shire Museum’s GREAT BARRINGTON – At the October Little Cinema at 7 9 Knosh & Knowledge, Letty Cottin p.m. A Q&A with Pogrebin will give a talk titled “What Do the film’s producer We Mean By Jewish Continuity? And and director, Glo- Must Intermarriage Necessarily Be a ria Z. Greenfield, Threat to Jewish Survival?”, in which will follow. she will consider the impact of inter- This film pres- marriage on the survival of the Jewish ents a comprehen- people and Jewish heritage. She’ll also sive examination be talking about Single Jewish Male of the broad and

Seeking Soul Mate, her new novel about PHOTO: MIKE LOVETT deep connections a son of Holocaust survivors looking for between the Jewish People and the who appears in the film. The jour- Land of Israel. World-renowned ney moves through Antiquity to the historians, archaeologists, political Middle Ages, and then to modernity, Inside scientists, religious leaders, and where the development of political Zionism catalyzed the blossoming of Shabbat for Seniors...... 2 international law and media experts trace the evolution of the more than a new Jewish spirit. That renewal of Letty Cottin Progrebin Your Federation Presents...... 4-8, 15-18 3,000-year-old relationship between Jewish spirit resulted in the rebirth love and Jewish identity in 1970s and of Jewish sovereignty in the Land of Jewish Education...... 10 the Jewish People and their home- 1980s New York City. Pogrebin, who land. Israel, an event that Harvard Univer- Berkshire Jewish Voices...... 19-21 has a house in the Berkshires, recently “Jewish identity is born in a jour- sity Professor Ruth Wisse declares spoke to the BJV about the novel and ney to the Land of Israel,” says Rabbi is “a miracle of truly Biblical propor- High Holy Days...... 22-23 her own Jewish journey. Lord Jonathan Sacks, formerly the tions.” People of the Comic Book...... 30-31 In Single Jewish Male Seeking Soul chief rabbi of the United Kingdom, BODY AND SOUL, continued on page 4 LETTY COTTIN POGREBIN, continued on page 5 Page 2 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 3

In My View Bringing the Spirit of Shabbat to Seniors By Margo Golos, Development Officer

From my current professional vantage point Show” to both Kindred Lau- – I was hired two-and-a-half years ago to work rel Lake and also Devonshire on this Federation’s annual campaign – I tend Estates Lenox, arriving laden to see much that happens in our community with candlesticks, challah, and through a fundraising lens. But as a former grape juice. Neal and Max’s geriatric social worker, I also see our communi- love for Judaism has been so ty through a social services lens. evident in the way they share In recent years, I have enjoyed volunteering stories, familiar melodies, and with my friend Roz Kolodny to deliver Feder- prayers with the grateful resi- ation-sponsored Rosh Hashanah and Purim dents at both sites. care packages to community members living at At Devonshire, the rabbis Kindred Laurel Lake Assisted Living in Lee. I re- were joined by Noah Hoch- alized that while these visits and packages are felder, an energetic high school very meaningful for the residents, twice a year student from Congregation just wasn’t enough. So I started visiting some Knesset Israel, who shares of these folks a little more often, spending time their love of Judaism and when I was able. the power of Shabbat. Before During those visits, I caught the attention of the very caring recreation director the recitation of the evening Laurel Picard, who was interested in having the Federation arrange a Kabbalat Shema, Neal asked Noah, who Shabbat program for some of the Jewish residents. Together, we conspired to has attended Camp Seneca make something special happen. Lake for many years, to share While in the planning process, I realized that by leveraging this Federation’s his experience of the prayers. community resources, we could expand our reach to other senior care facilities. Noah recounted that while For one, we have the people – our Berkshires Jewish community has a great re- at camp, he discovered the source in retired rabbis, cantors, and Jewish educators who reside here either full timeless power of the She- time or as part-time residents. My thought was that perhaps some of them might ma – first shielding his eyes be interested in spreading a bit of Shabbat joy by volunteering for this project. and entering a contemplative, The Federation got the word out that we were looking for volunteers, and Rabbi personal realm, then opening Neal Borovitz and Rabbi Max Roth graciously answered the call. them up to see himself in the midst of his peers, together affirming their shared religious Noah Hochfelder (right) observes the licht and communal values. Noah’s benching heartfelt words set the tone for the warm and inspiring service that followed. For the residents, this Jewish connection evokes warm memories. For in- stance, as we were wrapping up our Kindred Laurel Lake program, resident Berta Kohl reminded me that we forgot to sing Ein Kelohaynu. She led us through the verses, but then skipped a few. When one of the other participants questioned her about this, she said that this was the practice in her former temple in Buffalo, NY, “when we were running late, the rabbi would make up time by skipping a few verses. I noticed this but no one else did.” Dr. Edith Ginsberg of Devonshire told us: “We’ve been waiting a long time for this, and to see it happening is gratifying. We Jews are such a small minority, and sometimes we get lost. So I am very happy.” The one thing participants at both sites wanted to know was: “When are you coming back?” “Just once a month,” we answered. “Can you come more often?” they responded. We would love to have more people volunteer in this type of outreach, which – I guarantee – will enhance your own experience of Shabbat’s power and beau- ty. I invite people throughout the community to consider leading a future event. Individuals, families, and youth groups can volunteer to at whatever level they are Devonshire Estates residents celebrating Shabbat with Rabbi Neal Borovitz (first comfortable with. From reciting the Kiddush prayers to singing songs to leading a from left) and Rabbi Max Roth (first from right) short Shabbat service, we all have the ability to bring the light of Shabbat to our Jewish seniors. Recently retired from a long career as rabbi of a Reform congregation in New Ahad Ha’am (Asher Ginsberg, poet and Zionist ideologue: 1856-1927) put it this Jersey, Neal had long enjoyed creating opportunities for his post-b’nai mitzvah way: “More than the Jews have kept Shabbat, the Shabbat has kept the Jews.” students to perform acts of tikkun olam. He often had students join him in visiting Shabbat is universal; it binds all Jews together. I am thrilled that our Federation is the elderly and leading a regular Shabbat program for them. Max, a retired rabbi reaching out to these seniors, making sure they know that we remember them, care as well as a cantor, enthusiastically joined the effort to bring the blessing of Shab- about them, and include them in our Berkshire Jewish community. bat and its joyous melodies to the aging residents. The early results have been inspiring. We recently brought our “Shabbat Road Margo Golos is the development officer of the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires.

Young Judaism Life-Changing Camp Experiences Made Possible by Federation By Shayna Sawyer For the second summer, I was able to attend URJ Kutz Torah, but the most impressive (not to mention some- Camp (the summer home of the NFTY Leadership Experi- what nerve-wracking) moment was the hagba’ah at the ence) thanks to the generous support of the Jewish Fed- top. Everyone was in awe, and so was I. eration of the Berkshires. It was an experience I wouldn’t Another memorable moment from my time at Kutz trade for anything in the world. Kutz means so much to was when the Supreme Court passed the legislation me as a person and as a Jewish teen because everyone making same sex marriage legal in all 50 states – all of there is so passionate about their Judaism. us said the she’hecheyanu. Everyone then squished into When I’m at home, I go to services with my family, but a small room to watch President Obama’s speech – on they are not something I necessarily look forward to. At the floor, on the couches, on other people’s laps, but we Kutz, I found myself waiting for our daily tefilah with my all fit. There were tears of joy, and everyone was extreme- friends and enjoying every moment. I never knew what ly supportive of everyone else. to expect when they told us it was time for tefilah. One As well as doing things as an entire group, there was morning we had a silent service, where the song leaders lots of time spent in smaller groups. quietly played the melodies to the prayers but nobody There was a list of chuggim (elective activities) in sang. You could hear the birds chirping and the wind in the lobby that changed every day, and each day we got the trees, and everyone had an opportunity to reflect and to choose from a variety of activities that ranged from think about whatever they wanted to. having conversations with our North American Board to At another morning service, we all went to the tower water polo to watching TED talks. During this time we located on campus. When we got there, the song leaders had the opportunity to speak with visiting faculty about were sitting halfway up the tower with their guitars. When college and continuing your Jewish life in college, and I we came to the Torah service, the rabbi took the Torah think those sessions made me less scared to take that and slung it on his back. Then he proceeded to climb to step in my life. Shayna Sawyer (right) and friends bringing it the top of the tower with the Torah. There they read the YOUNG JUDAISM, continued on next page at a Shabbat Shira song session Page 2 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 3

Rabbi Reflections Just Asking – Questions for the High Holy Days By Barbara Cohen Is this you? (Be honest.) ships. Take an accounting of it. And by all means, try not to run from yourself by Do you feel the approach of the High Holy running the old tapes… “Don’t have time for this!” “Could be using this time to do Days as a dragging and nagging undertow of something I really enjoy.” “I don’t need to examine myself, I am fine just the way I obligation and a yearly ordeal of sitting and am.” standing through services that are obscure and How about we take all of that energy of avoidance and turn it? Begin the work far from the spiritual experience that you have of teshuvah, and lift ourselves, in solitude and in the communities that we are a perhaps longed for and not found? (Usually?) Or part of, to a new level of connection and awareness of the blessing of belonging. do you not even care, but just go because that V’ahavta l’rayacha camocha…You shall love your neighbor as yourself…it begins is what you are ‘supposed’ to do? (Often?) Don’t with us. How do we love ourselves? And is the love all gushy and not clear minded like organized religion because it is the cause of and analytical? Sometimes harsh and punishing? all of the world’s problems? (Yup?) Does this all Our religion talks a great deal about the love of God for the people. There have to be so hard? (Maybe…maybe not?) seems to be real dissonance between the description of this all-loving God and the Not everyone feels this way, but enough peo- fate that befalls the Jewish people throughout history. If, however, you delve into ple do and it is having an effect on the Jewish the writings of our tradition beyond the glancing introduction of a Hebrew school communal world. education, you come face to face with a much more complex relationship with the Yet it doesn’t have to be like this. We can Divine that has been revealed all along. It is exalted and painful, mercurial and take a fresh look at things, reconstruct our re- inspiring, uplifting and terrifying…and in the end, just like our relationships with actions and responses, and benefit from something that has been right under our ourselves and others. noses all along…sound good? Again I ask, does this have to be so hard? So how do we love ourselves in all of our complexity, and then go on to share The High Holy Days comprise time set aside in our tradition to take a serious our lives with others? Where do we begin? By being honest, by being merciful look at ourselves…not just in relation to our Jewish selves, but to our relationship and forgiving, by generosity of spirit, and by not shying away from the hard work with the Divine, to those closest to us, and to the whole sphere of relationships of being fully human. This is the message of these Days of Awe…look no further that we have with others. It is also a time to review behaviors of habit and mind than your own face and then outward, in ever-expanding circles of realization that dull our connections to our lives, to other people, and to the choices that we that you are looking into the face of the Divine. May we all feel the sense of aston- make. Choice – free will, you might say – and the exercise of our intelligence in all ishment that, if we could see this Truth, it might transform the world we inhabit of its manifestations are skills that need to be honed by conscious attention to the together. May it be so. edges of our experience. L’Shanah Tova, The Days of Awe are an orchestrated time of halting the rush and immersing Barbara ourselves in the sitting (and standing) in what could be such useful personal introspection. If the liturgy doesn’t move you, take up the intention of the time Barbara Cohen is spiritual leader of Congregation Ahavath Sholom in Great and think about what is working and isn’t working in you and in your relation- Barrington.

Berkshire YOUNG JUDAISM, continued from page 2

I now have relationships with people who I can talk to anytime I want and JA ewishpublicationA publication ofof the the Jewish Jewish Federation Federation of the Berkshires, of the serving Berkshires,V the Berkshires serving and surrounding the ice Berkshires NY, CT and VT and surrounding NY, CT and VT about anything I want. I made strong bonds with the girls and both of the RAs in my cabin, and I am so happy that I got to spend a month creating these rela- The color photography in this issue of the Berkshire tionships. I can’t stress enough how much Kutz has changed my life. I strongly Jewish Voice is made possible through the generosity of recommend it to anyone even slightly interested in going. I hope that many other people will have a meaningful Jewish experience surrounded by other passionate Stuart M. Fischman, Esq., honorary publisher. The staff of Jewish teenagers, because it will stick with them for the rest of their lives. the Federation and the BJV are deeply grateful. So thank you Jewish Federation for helping to change my life.

Shayna Sawyer is a member at Hevreh of Southern Berkshire.

Berkshire

JAewish publicationA publication of of the the Jewish Jewish Federation Federation of the Berkshires, of the serving Berkshires, V the Berkshires serving and surrounding the ice Berkshires NY, CT and and VT surrounding NY, CT and VT Published nine times a year by the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires Dara Kaufman: Publisher and Managing Editor Stuart M. Fischman, Esq.: Honorary Publisher Albert Stern: Editor Rose Tannenbaum: Graphic Design & Layout Jenny Greenfeld: Advertising Sales Representative and Assistant Editor

Editorial opinions expressed in the Berkshire Jewish Voice are those of the newspa- per and not those of any individual. Signed editorials do not represent the view of the newspaper, but rather express the writer’s view. The Berkshire Jewish Voice is under no obligation to accept any advertisement. It does A dramatic hagba’ah at Kutz Camp not guarantee the kashrut of any merchandise or service advertised. Serves the Jewish community in Berkshire County and neighboring New York, Connecticut, and Vermont. Voluntary subscription donations: $18, $36, $72, $108, other. You may request that the Berkshire Jewish Voice be Berkshire Jewish Voice e-mail: [email protected] Phone: (413) 442-4360, ext. 11 Fax (413) 443-6070 mailed to your home. Just email us at [email protected] Paid advertisements do not necessarily represent the opinions of for information. the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires or its members.

DEADLINES LETTERS TO THE EDITOR The next Berkshire Jewish Voice (Vol. 23, No. 8) will cover the period October 14, 2015 The Berkshire Jewish Voice welcomes signed letters on subjects of interest to the through November 19, 2015. The following edition (Vol. 23, No. 9) covers November Jewish community. Letters are printed upon space availability. The BJV reserves the 20, 2015 through December 31, 2015. The deadline for press releases and other right to edit all letters for content, length, and style. The BJV does not print anonymous written submissions, all of which are subject to being edited, is October 20, 2015. letters, insults, libelous or defamatory statements. For verification purposes, please Because of limitations of space and time, please be so kind as to not submit lengthy include full name, home address, and a day and evening telephone number. Send articles without first contacting the editor. Advertising deadline is November 2, letters to: Berkshire Jewish Voice, 196 South Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201, or email: 2015. For a complete Berkshire Jewish Voice schedule, contact (413) 442-4360, ext. [email protected]. 11, or e-mail [email protected]. Page 4 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 5 Your Federation Presents

BODY AND SOUL, continued from page 1 Producer and director Glo- ria Z. Greenfield, also aims to debunk propaganda, myths, and misinformation about Jews and their connection to Israel. “Over several decades, we have seen in a growing number of forums a very delib- erate and systematic policy of seeking to isolate and remove the State of Israel from the wider family of nations,” she says. “This is done through a willful effort to erode the moral standing of Israel by cease- less and relentless stigmati- zation.”Body and Soul, she asserts, “had to be made to set the record straight.” Greenfield also produced The Case for Israel – Democracy’s Outpost, New York Times wrote that Z. Greenfield, keeps a swift released by Doc Emet Produc- the documentary “is a concise, pace...The [64-minute] film is tions in 2008, and produced skillful recounting of the story as cogent as it is inspiring.” and directed Unmasked Judeo- of the Jewish people and their Tickets are $7.50 general phobia in 2011. connection to the land of Is- admission ($5 for Berkshire In addition to Rabbi Sacks rael. While it tends to conflate Museum members), and can and Dr. Wisse, the film fea- Judaism with Zionism — a be purchased in advance by tures the insights of notables position not all Jews agree calling the museum box office such as Yossi Klein Halevi, with — the film is straightfor- at (413) 443-7171. The Little Benny Morris, Bret Stephens, ward in presenting the histori- Cinema is located at 39 South and Victor Davis Hanson. The cal record. The director, Gloria Street in Pittsfield.

Attention 7th & 8th Graders – Make a Difference with the B’nai Tzedek Youth Foundation

The Jewish Federation of the Berkshires in- zations of their choice. vites 7th and 8th grade teens to become part of The Jewish Federation will provide funding the Berkshire B’nai Tzedek Youth Foundation, for the students to grant out. There is no cost to where they will learn about and participate in participate in this program, but students must PHOTOS FROM BODY AND SOUL Jewish philanthropy, tzedakah, tikkun olam, commit to attend a minimum of four sessions. and social justice. No outside work will be required. The Berkshire B’nai Tzedek Through this process, teens will also learn Youth Foundation is an excit- essential leadership and critical thinking skills, ing hands-on program that en- as well as develop valuable connections to each courages teens to explore their other and a deeper sense of their own personal personal Jewish values and values. learn how to effect meaningful The program will be held at the Lenox change through philanthropy. Community Center at 65 Walker Street from 4 Participants will: – 6:30 p.m. on the following Sunday evenings: • Discuss social issues and October 4, October 18, November 8, Decem- Jewish values that are import- ber 20, and January 24. A light dinner will be ant to them in order to develop served. a group mission The program will be facilitated by Dara • Research important work Kaufman, executive director of the Jewish Fed- being done by local, national, eration of the Berkshires and an award-winning and international non-profits Jewish educator, together with Jenny Gitlitz, a • Learn about the non-profit consultant with many years of expe- grant-making process and rience working with environmental groups issue their own Request for This is an exciting opportunity to bring local Grant proposals youth together to connect with their Jewish • Review grant proposals peers while reinforcing the power they have to and make collective decisions make a difference in our world. about allocating aid to organi- Page 4 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 5 Your Federation Presents

YIDDISH BOOK CENTER, continued from page 1 LETTY COTTIN POGREBIN, continued from page 1 Jewish history, Aaron Lansky The Center’s education Mate, Letty Cottin Pogrebin with a practicing Catholic, who if you know any anti-Semites enrolled in a graduate pro- programs include the Great encapsulates a dilemma com- would have insisted that their looking for some top-of-the- gram in East European Jewish Jewish Books Summer Pro- monly shared by children and children be raised as Catho- line offensive Jewish jokes, studies at McGill University in gram for high school students, grandchildren of Holocaust lics. “Suddenly, with the idea refer them to the pages about Montreal. There he discovered the Steiner Summer Yiddish survivors – how to feel “normal” of non-Jewish grandchildren, Babka. As a portrait of down- that large numbers of Yiddish Program for college students, despite the oppressive weight my so-called tolerance went town Manhattan’s perfor- books were being destroyed— a yearlong fellowship program, of history carried by people out the window,” Pogrebin mance art scene, onstage and not by anti-Semites, but by and Tent: Encounters with they love and need love from. remembers. Raised and edu- off, Pogrebin’s depiction is (as Jews who could not read the Jewish Culture, as well as Born and raised in the cated in a traditional Jewish this writer can attest) spot on. language of their parents and online and on-site courses on Bronx, the book’s protagonist American home, Pogrebin says The novel’s characters are grandparents. Convinced that Yiddish and Jewish culture. Zach Levy remembers feeling that approximately one-third all people of the Left whose someone had to save those The Center has launched an “like a normal all-American of both her parents’ extend- behavior is ideologically in- books, Lansky, ignoring the ambitious initiative to publish boy, rather than the heir to a ed families were lost during formed, if not always reason- cautions of experts who con- new Yiddish translations and European catastrophe.” But the War, and that she is old able when considered from a sidered the task impossible, to mentor emerging translators heir to a European catastro- enough to have been “aware of less Liberal point of view. Their left McGill and started what through a Translation Fellow- phe he is fated to be. Zach’s the Shoah as front page news.” progressive lives are shaken he then called the National ship program. It publishes an father Nathan spent the war She recalls the great anxiety up by a regressive Jewish Yiddish Book Exchange. English-language magazine, years as a resistance fighter, she felt in thinking that her conception of peoplehood that In 1980, when Lansky is- Pakn Treger, and is home to while his mother Rivka sur- “family thru-line with the Zach feels deeply and acts sued his first public appeal for the Wexler Oral History Proj- vived the camps and witnessed Jewish people would be out on, even though he cannot old Yiddish books, it was es- ect. the brutal murder of her first the window,” and the way this outwardly embrace it. Though timated that only 70,000 vol- Visit the Center’s website at child, Zach’s older brother. His reaction imperiled her rela- the novel ends on unresolved umes were extant and recov- www.yiddishbookcenter.org. parents never entirely regained tionship with her daughter. note that Progrebin says she erable. He rescued that many their bearings after emigrating Pogrebin believes that the will keep open ended – will within six months. Today the to the United States, and as anxiety is not uncommon, and Zach and Cleo reunite and Yiddish Book Center’s collec- IF YOU GO a child, Zach had to navigate is in part a product of Jews’ raise the son he had shunned tion totals more than a million “the oppressive atmosphere collective cultural memory of for 3 years? – the final chap- volumes, with the core col- Sponsor: Jewish Federation of in his parents’ apartment the Holocaust. All Jews, even ters suggest that Zach’s eyes lection stored in the Center’s the Berkshires and the horrific images that those not directly affected, might have been opened (via state-of-the-art repository, and Venue: Hevreh of Southern sporadically flashed through she believes, have “inherit- an encounter with a professor more than 12,000 titles avail- Berkshire, 270 State Road, Great his skull.” Before their deaths, ed the trauma” of the Shoah at Hebrew Union College, New able online from the Yiddish Barrington they invoke the Holocaust in and grapple with its meaning York’s center for Reform Juda- Book Center’s Steven Spiel- Date: Friday, September 25, at asking him to promise that he in creating their own Jewish ism) to a different approach to berg Digital Yiddish Library. 10:45 a.m. (catered lunch will marry only within the faith identities. the faith. With Lansky at the helm, follows at noon) and that his children will be Though Zach Levy’s experi- Pogrebin expresses this the Yiddish Book Center has raised Jewish. Despite his own ence as the child of survivors ecumenical ideal more di- Advance lunch reservations expanded its original mission required for this event. Email disengagement from Judaism, underpins the novel, the bulk rectly. “We [as Jews] accept to focus on education, shar- [email protected], he accedes to their wishes. of the narrative is about, as that we survive as a people ing the content of the books it In forming romantic attach- the title suggests, a single with traditions,” she says. “It or call (413) 442-4360, ext. 10 saved—and the culture those ments as an adult, Zach (now Jewish male seeking a soul carries us forward.” But in Cost: $11 with buffet lunch. books represent—with new a lawyer for the ACLU) finds mate. Pogrebin vividly cap- an age of intermarriage and Program only, $5. generations. that in making that vow, he tures the ideological disputes loosening ties to tradition, she was not merely placating his and personality types of an era feels that Jews and Jewish parents. He discovers that he she knows intimately – liberal institutions have to, for the has internalized his parents’ Manhattan in the 1970s and younger generation’s sake, worldview about maintain- 1980s. One of the novel’s two “make Judaism as beautiful

ing Jewish uniqueness and most successful set pieces and complex as we who have continuity despite his plural- revolves around a conten- the deep background know it istic ideals. In that tension tious cross-cultural outreach is. If they rebel, well, rebels JEWISH BEDTIME STORIES and SONGS between tribal Jewish values meeting at which a rabbi and should know what they are Free books and music to nurture Jewish and Left-leaning political and African-American preacher rebelling against. And if they families, for children 6 months – 8 years social inclination, the fictional preside over an attempt to come back, they should have character of Zach Levy con- breach the two communities’ a home base to come back to.” Thanks to the generosity of the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires, Harold Grinspoon Foundation, Spitz/Tuchman Family Fund, and nects with his creator. differences. (It’s where Zach Her prescription is for more in- the Irving Bashevkin Trust, Jewish families in the Berkshires can enjoy PJ Library as a gift that will nourish Jewish life from the start. Letty Cottin Pogrebin, a meets African-American radio clusion and education, adding co-founder of Ms. Magazine, is host Cleo, the daughter a that in her opinion the Talmud PJ Library is a program under the auspices of the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires. an admitted “card carrying lib- Southern minister with whom offers a good model of how to

For more information or to register your child today eral” who has long felt that all he falls in love.) The acrimo- go forward. please visit Jewishberkshires.org. people are created “in tzelem ny that Pogrebin depicts with “We know what Shamai Elokim – the image of God.” such unflinching honesty and thought because the minority Approximately 20 years ago, verisimilitude could only have opinion is in there,” she says, however, one of her daughters been captured by a front line “presented with respect.” became romantically involved veteran of the culture wars who experienced (first, she says, with shock, and then IF YOU GO with sadness, and finally with Sponsor: Jewish Federation of Sukkot Fun on the Farm Festival a renewed commitment to the Berkshires connect with the experiences Venue: Hevreh of Southern of black women) the wrench- Berkshire, 270 State Road, Great ing breakup of a once united Barrington coalition of Jews and African Americans. Date: Friday, October 9, at Some Jewish readers might 10:45 a.m. (catered lunch find themselves unsettled by follows at noon) the novel’s other accomplished Advance lunch reservations set piece, which revolves required for this event. Email around Zach’s relationship [email protected], with an emotionally erratic or call (413) 442-4360, ext. 10 performance artist named Cost: $11 with buffet lunch. Babka – suffice it to say, that Program only, $5. CHESHIRE – The Jewish ees will also be able to enjoy (413) 442-4360, ext. 10 or Federation of the Berkshires the many fun activities at the email: jfb.officemanager@veri- and PJ Library will celebrate farm, including the petting zon.net. Heavy rain will cancel Sukkot with a Family Fun Day zoo, hay rides, a bouncy slide the event. at Whitney’s Farm on Sunday, and house, and the haunted PJ Library, a program of September 27, from 11 a.m. corn maze. Kids can choose the Harold Grinspoon Foun- to 1 p.m. Whitney’s Farm is their own sugar pumpkin to dation, is offered locally by located at 1775 South Street take home. the Jewish Federation of the (Route 8) in Cheshire. Lunch options will be avail- Berkshires thanks to generous Children, parents, and able for purchase, or bring funding from local donors. The grandparents can build their your own – snacks will be program provides free monthly own edible sukkahs, as well as provided. books and music with Jew- create sukkah decorations on Cost is $5.00 per child ish content to children ages arts and crafts tables and visit payable at the event, with no 6 months through 8 years of the Sukkot book center. charge for adults and infants. age. Fall at Whitney’s is Berk- Advance registration is re- shires tradition, and attend- quired by September 20 – call Page 6 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 7 Your Federation Presents Jewish Writers: The Achieve- Jazz in Blues and the American Songbook, ments of British Historian Sept. 21 Martin Gilbert on October 8 Jazz is the quintessential American music, and at the As part of his ongoing September 21 Connecting With series exploring the achieve- Community program, guitar- ments of prominent Jewish ist Sam Rosen and pianist authors, Hugh Black – a Richard Evans will explore the teacher, librarian, journalist, roots of jazz in an entertaining poet, and bibliophile – returns and educational performance to the Connecting With Com- called “Jazz in Blues and the munity series on October 8 to American Songbook.” discuss the historical writing Jazz repertoire has evolved of Sir Martin Gilbert. many forms over 100 years, Sir Martin Gilbert was drawing upon the blues, born in London in 1936 to theatre, cinema, and popu- Jewish parents, Peter and lar song, as well as specific Miriam Gilbert, whose own instrumental jazz composi- parents were refugees from tions. While not unique to jazz, Czarist Russia. Best known improvisation has played a Richard Evans and Sam Rosen as the official biographer of central role in its development Sir Winston Churchill, Gil- Historian Sir Martin Gilbert and has been considered a IF YOU GO bert also wrote many books liberating influence. The duo Sponsor: Jewish Federation of the Berkshires / Connecting With about Jewish history. Among storytelling letters to a lifelong will present several selections Community the books Black will discuss friend. using piano and guitar to are Winston Churchill and Gilbert died in 2014 at the illustrate the role of texture, Venue: Congregation Knesset Israel the Jews, Israel: A History, age of 78 in Jerusalem. rhythm, melody, and harmony Date & Time: Monday, September 21, at 10:45 a.m., followed by Jerusalem in the 20th Century, in the creation of this fascinat- lunch (see page 14). The Holocaust Journals, The IF YOU GO ing music. Boys: Triumph Over Adversity, Sam Rosen is a popular and The Holocaust Chronicles. Sponsor: Jewish Federation Berkeley-trained jazz guitarist Poet Emily Dickinson and Black will also talk about the of the Berkshires / Connecting who plays in many local ven- idiosyncratic Letters to Auntie With Community ues. Richard Evans is a retired Fori: The 5,000-Year History Venue: Congregation Knesset psychiatrist who has for many the Books That Shaped Her of the Jewish People and Their Israel years enjoyed playing jazz Faith, in which the historian Date & Time: Thursday, October piano, most recently with local Life and Worldview, recounts the saga of Jewish 8, at 10:45 a.m., followed by musicians. life in a series of intimate, lunch (see page 14). September 10 “I am glad there are Books. They are better than Heaven,” Meet the New Artistic Director of the wrote the poet Emily Dickin- son, and at the September 10 Williamstown Film Festival WFF Presents: Connecting With Community program, Jane Wald, executive director of the Emily Dick- Wind-Up Fest, Sept. 24 inson Museum in Amherst, The September 24 Connect- Film Fest (Columbia, MO), and will explore the poet’s work ing With Community program the new managing director through the books that filled introduces Paul Sturtz, the Sandra Thomas is the former the Dickinson Family’s library new artistic director of WFF executive director of Images shelves. Presents: Wind-Up Fest – for- Cinema (Williamstown). What can these books tell merly the Williamstown Film Sturtz will talk about why us about the reclusive po- Festival (WFF). Now in its 17th he chose to take the festival in et’s life and worldview? Wald year, the festival welcomes a new direction, his interest in notes that Dickinson’s poems big changes with a new name, the northern Berkshires, and and letters chronicle a life- new faces, and new program- the programming he curated long struggle with issues of ming concept. that includes the creators and faith and doubt, suffering and salvation, nature and deity, Slated for October 15-18, makers of documentary film Jane Wald WFF presents: Wind-Up Fest is and other forms of nonfiction. mortality and the eternal. Nev- a nonfiction festival with docu- Paul Sturtz ertheless, Dickinson’s religious mentary film as its backbone. views have long evaded precise known as The Homestead and The Evergreens) for 14 years, Other forms of nonfiction will IF YOU GO explanation. She refused to be in conversation with docu- become a full member of her has been its executive director Sponsor: Jewish Federation of the Berkshires / Connecting With mentaries, including long-form family’s church and called her- for the last nine. She has over- Community journalism, radio podcasts, self a “pagan,” but she knew seen the expansion of tours, photography, and social Venue: Congregation Knesset Israel the Bible backwards and for- public programs, and audience practice art. Sturtz is also the Date & Time: Thursday, September 24, at 10:45 a.m., followed by wards and often spoke of faith while directing many capital co-director at the True/False lunch (see page 14). and its attributes in poetry. and restoration projects. An examination of the reli- gious texts on the shelves of IF YOU GO her family’s libraries can cast more light on Dickinson’s per- Sponsor: Jewish Federation The Writing Life, with Ruth sonal theological explorations of the Berkshires / Connecting in the context of 19th-century With Community Sidransky on October 1 religious movements. Were Venue: Congregation Knesset they better, to her, than Heav- Israel A daughter of profoundly cuss her life as a writer. Her en? Date & Time: Thursday, Septem- deaf parents, Ruth Sidransky first book, the family memoir Jane Wald has been with ber 10, at 10:45 a.m., followed from childhood was tasked In Silence, was nominated the Dickinson Museum (also by lunch (see page 14). with explaining the hear- for the Pulitzer Prize and the ing world to her mother and National Book Award. Oth- father. Her first words were er works include the Holo- in sign language – when she caust-themed Reparations: A started school, she was placed Novel of War and Rebirth and in a class for special needs A Women’s Primer: A Book children until the principal Of Positive Essays About the THE JEWISH FEDERATION realized that she could hear Attributes of Living Life. She FUNDS AND SUPPORTS A and speak. Her mastery of oral is currently at work on book Ruth Sidransky language provided her family about writing. COMMUNITY-WIDE NETWORK with a pathway to understand- OF ORGANIZATIONS THAT: ing the world, and eventually IF YOU GO she went on to become an au- Care for people in need here at home, thor, educator, and television Sponsor: Jewish Federation of the Berkshires / Connecting With 1. in Israel and around the world. presenter. Community At the Thursday, October 1, Venue: Congregation Knesset Israel Nurture and sustain Jewish life and 2. learning today and into the future. Connecting With Community Date & Time: Thursday, October 1, at 10:45 a.m., followed by lunch program, Sidransky will dis- (see page 14). Page 6 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 7 Your Federation Presents Federation’s Annual Concert a Fun Fundraising Success

LENOX – More than 500 people packed the sold-out Duffin Theater on August 2 to hear singing sensations the Mac- cabeats at the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires’ annual concert. The en- thusiastic audience enjoyed the group’s a cappella harmonies (backed rhythmically by human beatbox Mendy the Maccabeat and, for one song, the Berkshires’ own Ellie Caine), supporting the performers by Post-performance, the Maccabeats graciously greeted the crowd and signed CDs of their music clapping and singing PHOTOS BY ELISA SNOWISE along. “Boots ‘n Katz ‘n Boots ‘n Katz ‘n…” – Ellie Caine blowing the roof Norman Michaels (who co- raised more than $16,000 for This Federation event was off the Duffin Theater chaired the event with Judith the Jewish Fund For Israel’s supported by the Harold Grin- Cook) welcomed the gathered Fund for Victims of Terror. spoon Foundation. and announced that the event

“Swimming in Air”: Ongoing Qigong Connecting With Community Classes with Jeffrey Gordon, September 17 Series / Kosher Hot Lunch Programs in the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires’ Con- Jeffrey Gordon is a native of Pittsfield and enhance joint mobility, bone strength, circula- necting With Community series are free and start at 10:45 a.m. serves the community as an acupuncturist and tion, and balance. most Mondays and Thursdays at Congregation Knesset Israel Qigong instructor. Practicing Qigong is often (16 Colt Road, Pittsfield). Programs are followed by a kosher hot likened to “swimming in air” and has a rejuve- IF YOU GO lunch. Lunch is a $2 suggested donation for adults over 60 years nating and refreshing effect on the body, mind, of age or $7 for all others. Advance reservations are required for and senses. Sponsor: Jewish Federation of the Berkshires / lunch and can be made by calling (413) 442-2200 before 9 a.m. Qigong, similar to Tai Chi, is a simple form Connecting With Community on the day of the program. of exercise to strengthen physical health and Venue: Congregation Knesset Israel For further information on all programs, please call Nancy calm and focus the mind. It is an ideal form of Date & Time: Thursday, September 17, at 10:45 Maurice Rogers, program director, at (413) 442-4360, ext. 15. exercise for older adults and seniors, helping to a.m., followed by lunch (see page 14). For lunch menus, please see page 14. Page 8 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 9 Your Federation Presents

Berkshire Volunteers are Vital! Joe’s Project Care Packages

JewishA publication of the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires, serving V the Berkshires and surrounding ice NY, CT and VT Bring Holiday Spirit to Area Seniors Thank you to our supporters! By Susan Frisch Lehrer, Coordinator of Volunteers The Berkshire Jewish Voice extends a very special “thank you” for the Thanks to all of the many volun- cilities throughout the Berkshire area teers helping with “Joe’s Project” to before Rosh Hashanah. generosity extended thus far by those households who have sent in their deliver Rosh Hashanah care packages Our recipients always enjoy the de- contributions for voluntary subscriptions to the paper. to our many senior adults and those licious challot and honey, the decora- who are ill in the community. Over tive bags, and the visits from families 100 volunteers have been busy. They and friends. This project is truly a Anonymous (5) Fred and Brenda Landes include: mitzvah. Todah rabah to all! Suzanne Bach Jeffrey Lazarus and Phyllis Cohen • Our talented bakers led by Susan Anita Bakst Elaine Lee Gordon of Bagels Too Shana Tovah, Robert and Barbara Bashevkin Donna Lefkowitz • PJ Library, Religious School, and Susan Frisch Lehrer, Coordinator of Crane Lake Camp kids who have dec- Volunteers Bob and Shelley Berend Arline Levine orated bags throughout the summer (413) 442-4360, ext. 14 Rabbi Kenneth Brickman Paul and Fran Lippmann • The dedicated volunteers packing [email protected] Irwin and Ilse Browner Elaine and Lenny Lipton and delivering to homes and senior fa- Alan and Roselle Chartock Frank Litsky and Zina Green Mike and Bobbi Cohn Elaine Loveman Sue and Joel Colker Norman and Wilma Michaels Adele Cukor Richard Mickey and Nancy Salz Joel and Phyllis Curran Alan and Nancy Milbauer Nathan Doctrow Annette Miller Sheila Donath Faith and Larry Newmark Marilyn Dukoff Beth and Joel Radsken Eitan and Malka Evan Elaine and Bernard Roberts Chris Fader and Michele Bauer Stuart and Myrna Rodkin Diana and Stanley Feld Bob and Roz Rosenblatt David and Lea Finck Orson and Dianne Rothkopf Stuart Fischman Shirley Rubenstein Sandra and William Flannery David and Amy Rutstein Robert and Marcia Gold Edwin Salsitz Mae and Irwin Goldberg Bob and Lee Saltz Irene Goldman-Price Susan and Bob Scherr Susan and Marc Goldman Alice and Len Schiller Corinne and Jerry Gorelick Lewis and Joyce Schiller Joel and Carol Greenberg Harold and Joan Schwartz Sue and Joel Gurland Gloria Shipper Preparations for Rosh Hashanah started early, as PJ Library families (above) gathered on the scenic grounds of Tanglewood on August 7 to hear a story and Aaron Gurwitz and Susan Martin Silver decorate gift bags for Joe’s Project. Abramowitz Amy Simons Abramovich Peter Herman and Jerri Chaplin David Slick and Robin Seeley Mara and Muffin Herskowitz Steven Souza and Karen Kwitter Harold and Elaine Isaacson Mimi and Steve Stambler Harry and Arlene Jaroslaw Lois and Michael Storch Registration Open for JFNA General In memory of Jerry Silverberg Carol and Richard Strunin Randy Johnson and Jackie Browner Rosalie Sussman Assembly 2015 Martin and Alice Jonas Ellen and Leonard Tabs Registration is now open for the ing, please contact Dara Kaufman, ex- Eliot Kalman Henry Tulgan and Norma Propp Jewish Federations of North America’s ecutive director, at (413) 442-4360, ext. Adele and Paul Kellman Tulgan General Assembly (GA), which will take 12 or at [email protected]. Ellen Kenwood Gary and Bernice Turetsky place from Sunday, November 8 Lawrence and Sarah Klein Ruth and Robert Waldheim through Tuesday, November 10 in Washington, D.C. The GA is Roy and Leslie Kozupsky Arthur and Terry Wasser the premier annual North Amer- Dave and Ann Krawet Howard and Deborah Wineberg ican Jewish communal event, Lois Kronick Sergey and Natalya Yantovsky attracting Federation volunteer Bob and Carole Landau Margot Yondorf leaders and professionals, the leadership of partner organiza- tions, and a range of national Jewish organizations. Community members are invited to For more information, visit SEED WHAT YOU READ! BECOME A SUBSCRIBER TODAY! attend. If you are interested in attend- www.generalassembly.org/. Yes, I support the Berkshire Jewish Voice! Please accept my voluntary tax-deductible subscription contribution. _____ $360 Mensch & Honorary Publisher (Supports color printing in one edition of the Voice) _____ $108 Sponsor _____ $72 Patron Mail check payable to: _____ $36 Friend Jewish Federation of the Berkshires 196 South Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201 _____ $18 Supporter­­­­ (Please add Berkshire Jewish Voice in the memo)

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Check out our website!www.jewishberkshires.org INCLUDES A CALENDAR OF PROGRAMS AND EVENTS SPONSORED BY THE BERKSHIRE JEWISH COMMUNITY Page 8 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 9

Wishing You A Sweet New Year L’Shana Tova Tikatevu 2015-5776

In Our Kosher Meat Dept. 10-22 Lb. Avg. Wgt.•Frozen In Our Kosher Grocery Dept. 64 oz.•Light White, Empire Light Concord, White or Kosher Kedem Concord Whole Turkey Grape Juice

In Our Bakery Dept. 24 oz.•Plain $3.99 or 79 Raisin 99 99 2 lb. Challah Bread 4 2 In Our Kosher Meat Dept. In Our Kosher Grocery Dept.•24 oz.•Regular, In Our Kosher Grocery Dept.•12 oz.•Wide, Extra Wide, Empire Kosher•Frozen No Sugar, No Salt, Old Jerusalem Gefilte Fish or Medium or Fine or 7 oz. Large Bow Ties Bone-In 99 Mrs. Adler’s 2 $ Manischewitz 5 $ Turkey Breast 3 lb. Pike’n Whitefish / 6 Egg Noodles / 5 In Our Kosher Meat Dept. In Our Kosher Grocery Dept. In Our Kosher Grocery Dept. 39 oz. 8.8 oz.•Marble or 2.75 oz. Meal Mart 99 Osem 2 $ Goodman’s Onion ¢ Stuffed Cabbage 10 Honey Cake / 4 Soup & Dip Mix 99 In Our Kosher Grocery Dept. In Our Kosher Frozen Dept. In Our Kosher Meat Dept. 12 oz. 14.5-15 oz. Fresh Teva 1st Cut 99 Price Chopper 99 Tabatchnick 2 $ Kosher Brisket 13 lb. Honey Bear 3 Soup / 3 In Our Produce Dept. In Our Kosher Dairy Dept. In Our Kosher Frozen Dept. U.S. #1•“New Crop” 96 99 8 oz. Tub 2 $ 13 oz.•Cheese, Cherry or Potato Only 2 $ Fresh NY State 3 LB. Temp Tee Whipped Golden Blintzes Red Apples 2 BAG Cream Cheese / 4 6 Pack / 5 In Our Seafood Dept. In Our Kosher Dairy Dept.•8 oz. Tub In Our Kosher Grocery Dept. 72 CT. ROKEACH 12 oz.•Snacks in Wine Sauce or Spreadable Butter or Unsalted or Salted 1 Ct. SHABBOS CANDLES Nathan’s Snacks 99 Breakstone’s 2 $ Rokeach $4.99 2 $ in Sour Cream 4 Whipped Butter / 5 Yahrzeit Candle / 1 2 $ 2 $ 2 $ In Our Kosher Grocery Dept. AdvantEdge Price / 2 In Our Kosher Grocery Dept. AdvantEdge Price / 4 AdvantEdge Price / 6 ¢ $ $ 4.5 oz. Matzo Ball & Soup Mix or Coupon Savings 50 32 oz.•Vegetable, Beef, Coupon Savings 1 In Our Kosher Grocery Dept. Coupon Savings 1 5 oz. Reduced Sodium Chicken or 25.4 oz.•All Varieties Manischewitz FINAL PRICE Manischewitz FINAL PRICE Kedem FINAL PRICE WITH & 2 50 WITH & 2 $ WITH & 2 $ Matzo Ball Mix COUPON /1 Chicken Broth COUPON / 3 Sparkling Juice COUPON / 5 COUPON • EXPIRES 9/26/15 COUPON • EXPIRES 9/26/15 COUPON • EXPIRES 9/26/15 4.5 oz. Matzo Ball & Soup Mix 32 oz.•Vegetable, Beef, 25.4 oz. or 5 oz. Reduced Sodium Chicken or All Varieties Manischewitz Manischewitz Kedem Matzo Ball Mix Chicken Broth Sparkling Juice ¢ $ $ 50 off 2 1off 2 1off 2 Limit 1 Price Chopper coupon per customer, per offer, per day; may be Limit 1 Price Chopper coupon per customer, per offer, per day; may be Limit 1 Price Chopper coupon per customer, per offer, per day; may be combined with one manufacturer coupon per product purchased, combined with one manufacturer coupon per product purchased, combined with one manufacturer coupon per product purchased, unless prohibited. Void if copied or altered. Offer effective Sunday, unless prohibited. Void if copied or altered. Offer effective Sunday, unless prohibited. Void if copied or altered. Offer effective Sunday, August 23, 2015 thru Saturday, September 26, 2015 in our Price Chopper, August 23, 2015 thru Saturday, September 26, 2015 in our Price Chopper, August 23, 2015 thru Saturday, September 26, 2015 in our Price Chopper, Market 32 & Market Bistro stores. Market 32 & Market Bistro stores. Market 32 & Market Bistro stores. CLU# CLU# CLU# 1602 1601 1603

Prices effective Sunday, August 23 thru Saturday, September 26, 2015 in our NY, PA, VT, NH, MA and CT stores only. All varieties may not be available in all stores. We reserve the right to limit quantities and substitute items. Not responsible for typographical errors. Page 10 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 11 LOCAL NEWS – EDUCATION ROUNDUP Jewish Education in the Berkshires 2015-2016 The Jewish Federation of the Berkshires has a strong commitment to Jewish youth, helping to provide a high-quality Jewish education for more than 212 children and young adults through grants to six congregational religious schools across the Berkshires. Berkshire County is fortunate to have a diverse Jewish community that offers educational opportunities encompassing a wide range of approaches and family preferences. This section offers an overview of local Jewish schools — please check congregational websites for full details.

Hevreh of Southern Berkshire Congregation Beth Israel Hevreh Religious School is throughout the year. at 4 p.m. beginning September The Congregation Beth tion team. Rabbi Greenfield opening its doors this Sep- Religious School open 16 (weekly). Israel education program uses will lead the congregation’s tember to create a commu- house events include a tot Religious School classes for an art-based curriculum com- Ne’arim class for 4th-6th grad- nity of learners, from young Shabbat on September 26 at 9 Kindergarten through Confir- bined with field trips, storytell- ers and teach in the Hand-in- children through high school a.m., and a picnic lunch and mation, Sundays beginning ing, and Hebrew instruction to Hand program for the commu- seniors. With the guidance of sukkah decoration celebration September 20 at 10 a.m. K – 6 teach Hebrew language along nity’s youngest participants teachers, song leaders, young at noon on September 27. classes meet weekly. Pre–con- with Jewish holidays, tradi- (pre-K and K). teachers, and rabbis, Hevreh Contact: Rabbi Jodie Gor- firmation and confirmation tion, and culture. CBI’s educa- For more information about students explore Jewish don or Joan Goldberg Munch classes meet bi-weekly. tion programs meet Mondays CBI’s education programs, see heritage, rituals, history, and (413) 528-6378. For a com- Tiny Talmidim classes from 3:30-5:15 for kindergar- the CBI website (www.cbiweb. holidays. Hevreh will continue plete religious school calendar for pre-school children meet ten through 7th graders, and org) or contact Rabbi Rachel its successful Family YACHAD visit Hevreh.org. monthly beginning Sunday, one Sunday a month for 3-5 Barenblat (rabbibarenblat@ (Together) program where Classes September 27 at 10:15 a.m. year olds and their parents. gmail.com) or Education Di- parents and students can CBI welcomes Rabbi Jarah rector David Arfa Hebrew Skills classes for participate together in learning Greenfield to their educa- ([email protected]). and celebration opportunities 3rd – 7th graders, Wednesdays Congregation Ahavath Chabad of The Berkshires Sholom Hebrew School of the Arts Program and they are having lots of fun” report Shana Centered on the core together in a small group at- prayers of the liturgy and the mosphere that encourages en- Combining a creative artistic program that and Richard Senzel, parents of 8-year-old and values they represent, the new gagement with Jewish culture, includes arts and crafts, delicious baking, sing- 6-year-old boys in the program. “We feel great “V’Ahavta Project” curriculum history, prayer and Torah, and ing, drawing, storytelling, and play performing when we drop them off and pick them up each is built to provide relevant Jewish values. The teaching with Jewish history, tradition, and holiday week, and they do, too!” context to religious school of Torah cantillation, through celebrations, Chabad’s program director Sara Chabad of The Berkshires offers the Hebrew families The school schedule, “Trope Aerobics” gets the Volovik aims to offer a dynamic and energiz- School of The Arts Program on Sundays from starting in September, alter- students up out of their chairs ing experience for her students. Bar and bat 10 a.m. to 12:15 p.m., along with special holi- nates between Sunday after- after a long day at school, mitzvah lessons, as well as Hebrew language day programs. For more information, please call noon one week and Thursday making an ancient skill active programs, are also offered. “The self-confidence Chabad of the Berkshires at (413) 499-9899 or after school the next. and alive. in their Judaic skills and knowledge is growing, visit the website at www.jewishberkshires.com. Class is taught by Spiri- To begin the process, tual Leader Barbara Cohen parent(s) are invited to meet and Head Teacher John Slote, with Barbara Cohen to explore Temple Anshe Amunim who say they strive to break family background and values the pattern of “I had to do it, in order to set realistic and Temple Anshe Amunim the 2015 Harold Grinspoon will be invited to join with so you have to do it” that for attainable goals for each child. offers religious education for Award for Excellence in students for family education generations has characterized Please call (413) 528-4197 or students from preschool to Education. Classes are held programming, student-led ser- the Hebrew school experience. email info@ahavathsholom. high school, along with eve- on Saturdays. In addition vices, field trips, and special Children and parent(s) come com. ning Hebrew and conversion to Hebrew instruction, stu- projects. classes for adults. All pro- dents engage in music, crafts, The Temple continues its grams feature a full comple- stories, drama and hands-on partnership with Congregation Congregation Knesset Israel ment of professional educa- learning with a special empha- Knesset Israel in the Com- The Congregation Knesset trator, (413) 445-4872, ext. 15 tors and a focus on Hebrew sis on the traditions and ritu- munity Hebrew Afterschool Israel Hebrew School curric- or email at instruction and individualized als of Judaism. Group tutoring Initiative (CHAI) which meets ulum intends to prepare stu- [email protected] learning. sessions are available for those Wednesday afternoons from 4 dents for Jewish lives imbued Schedule The Religious School is led students who wish additional to 6 p.m. at TAA. This pro- with meaning, knowledge, and by Education Director Esther help with learning Hebrew. gram, offered in conjunction ruach (spirit). Classes are held Preschool: Saturdays, 10:30- Benari-Altmann, recipient of Throughout the year, parents with Hebrew school, offers at KI on Shabbat mornings, 11:30 a.m. students a supportive atmo- with the Hebrew language Grade K-1: Saturdays, 9-noon sphere to gain and refine their focused CHAI program (in & Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. (Sat. Hebrew language and ritual partnership with Temple An- required, Wed. optional) leadership skills, as well as she Amunim) on Wednesdays Grade 2: Saturdays, 9-noon collaborative learning about at the Temple for kindergarten & Wednesdays, 4-6 p.m. (Sat. Jewish holidays and practices. through 6th grade students. required, Wed. encouraged) To learn more about the The early drop off option for Grade 3-5: Saturdays, 9-noon www.berkshireradon.com Religious School, please con- CHAI with supervised home- & Wednesdays, 4-6 p.m. (both (413) 528-9700 tact Esther Benari-Altmann at work review and programming required) (413) 442-5910, ext. 12, email from 3:15 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. Grade 6 (special class): Satur- [email protected] or visit will continue to be offered days, 9:30-noon; midweek by www.ansheanumim.org. this year. This year, the B’nai consensus Mitzvah class will also meet at Bar/Bat Mitzvah Class: Radon Testing TAA from 4 to 6 p.m., as well Saturdays, 9-noon & Wednes- days, 4-6 p.m. (both required) ❑✓ COMPETITIVE PRICING as 9 a.m. to noon Saturdays ✓ and Mitigation High School: Saturdays, 8:40- ❑ PROMPT SERVICE at KI. ❑✓ FIVE-YEAR WARRANTY NEHA & NRSB CERTIFIED For more information: Ed 9:30 a.m.; evening class on Udel, Hebrew School Adminis- Israel TBD – weekday evenings in the winter Page 10 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 11 LOCAL NEWS Local Group to Host New IDF Reservists, Israeli Consul General England ACLU Executive Share Stories and Concerns at August FIDF Director Event SALISBURY, CT – On Sun- is invited and refreshments LENOX – On August 11, day, September 27 at 11 a.m., will be served. the New England chapter of Stephen Glassman, the New The JCGNWC is a group Friends of the Israel Defense England executive director of of about 50 people who come Forces (FIDF) brought three the American Civil Liberties together on occasion to hear IDF reservists and Yehuda Union (ACLU) will speak on lectures, see films, read books, Yaakov, Israel’s consul general the topic of “Racial Justice, and celebrate Jewish holidays in New England, to the Berk- Anti-Semitism, and the ACLU with social gatherings and din- shires to share stories from of Connecticut.” The lec- ners. All are welcome at events the front lines of both military ture will be presented by the hosted by this 25 year old so- and diplomatic battles. The Jewish Community Group of cial and cultural organization. Jewish Federation of the Berk- the NorthWest Corner (JCGN- Please contact Dr. Alfred Ivry, shires was a co-sponsor of this WC) at Noble Horizons (in the the group’s director, at event. Community Room), 17 Cobble [email protected] or (860) 824- All coming from families Road in Salisbury. The public 4658 for more information. with financial challenges, reservists Sergeant Reut, Ser- geant Major Golan, and Staff 2nd Annual Sergeant Arthur (last names withheld for security reasons) BerkshireSPEAKS Set for are recipients of FIDF IMPACT scholarships and are complet- Sunday, October 18 ing their studies at top Israeli IDF soldiers Arthur, Golan, and Reut with Eiran Gazit at the universities. IMPACT benefi- Gateways Inn GREAT BARRINGTON – munity of sustainable agricul- ciaries give back by donating Hevreh of Southern Berk- ture with a commitment to the at least 130 hours of service to shire’s second annual Berk- local food movement. She has Israelis in need. shireSPEAKS is scheduled for co-authored books on food and Reut served an educator Sunday, October 18 at 1:30 beverages and was an initiator assigned with instilling IDF p.m., and will feature brief of Berkshire Grown’s Holiday values (“ruach Zahal”) during presentations by six Berkshire Farmers’ Market events. officer training programs; she trendsetters who will discuss Eleanore Velez: Coordinator also spoke movingly about her their work, their passions, of the Multicultural Center at volunteer work with and on and their visions for the fu- Berkshire Community College, behalf of aged Holocaust survi- ture. The event, sponsored by her work is focused on bridging vors. Golan, who worked with Hevreh, is open to the commu- cultural gaps between local the IDF K-9 unit, described his nity and will be followed by a and recent immigrants. She re- harrowing search for a fleeing reception with the speakers. ceived the Berkshire Immigrant terrorist, as well as the loss of Event chair Joan Kleinman Center’s Jane Addams Spirit his canine partner in combat; notes that “This is a special Award and was recognized by he now studies architecture. event that will open our minds the Literacy Network with their Arthur shared a riveting story to the extraordinary talent and Founder of Americans Award. from his reconnaissance and innovation here in the Berk- Simon Winchester: New support mission in Gaza, when shires. Using the TED Talks York Times bestselling au- a hard-to-explain sixth sense model, we will not only be thor of The Professor and the helped his unit foil an ambush informed, we will be surprised Madman, Atlantic, Krakatoa: A by Hamas fighters; he current- and dazzled!” Presenters in- Crack in the Edge of the World, ly studies government, and Yehuda Yaakov spoke about the dangers of the US deal with Iran clude: and The Men Who United the gives back by tutoring children Ty Allan Jackson: Social States, he was made an officer from broken homes and by “The Iranians are playing to remain strong and protect activist, speaker, author, and of the Order of the British Em- working at a food bank. multi-dimensional chess, and its inhabitants, he lamented founder and president of Big pire (OBE) by Her Majesty the Consul General Yehuda they have got it all worked that the energy, funds, and Head Books, he was hon- Queen for his work in journal- Yaakov delivered a sometimes out. [Iranian President Hassan political will it will take to ored in 2012 with the Martin ism and literature. controversial overview of the Rouhani] wanted legitimacy do so could have been better Luther King, Jr. Content of Tickets are $15 if you recent nuclear deal with Iran, for the Iranian nuclear pro- spent in more positive modes Character Award. His focus register online at: Hevreh.org/ laying out the Israeli govern- gram, he wanted international in the absence of the need to is to provide books for young BerkshireSPEAKS (online reg- ment’s position. “For us, it is recognition for Iran’s regional mobilize for a potentially nu- people with content and char- istration closes at noon Oct. inconceivable that Iran will hegemony, a free hand and a clear Iran. acters that entertain, inspire, 16). Tickets will be $18 at the be declared the sheriff of the place at the table. He got all of and educate. door. Hevreh is located at 270 Middle East,” said Yaakov, the above.” Sara Katzoff: A theater State Road, Great Barrington. who worked for years as an Yaakov asserted that while maker, writer, and actress, For information, call (413) analyst of Iranian politics. Israel will prevail in its efforts she is the co-artistic director 528-6378. of The Berkshire Fringe and Bazaar Productions, and is a teaching artist for the Play- Berkshire Jewish Teens Learn the wright Mentorship Project at Barrington Stage. Ropes Howard Levin, M.D.: Dr. ERKSHIRE Levin is chief medical of- GREAT BARRINGTON – On Saturday, low ropes course, followed by pizza and B ficer and vice president of October 3 from 3:30 to 6 p.m., Jewish Havdalah. Be sure to wear comfortable OOFING & LympheDIVAS, a Pittsfield teens from across Berkshire County are clothing and closed-toe shoes. R company that makes specially invited to challenge their minds and Cost per teen is $20 for dinner and UTTER CO. designed compression sleeves, bodies with an exhilarating afternoon activity. Register at: G gloves, and gauntlets for on the low-ropes course at Berkshire http://tinyurl.com/lowropesreg. 413-298-1029413 298 1029 women at risk for lymphedema South Community Center. Jewish teens Berkshire South is located at 15 www.BGRCo.net after breast cancer treatment. from grades 6-12 (regardless of affilia- Crissey Road, Great Barrington. This CEDAR ROOF Nancy Thomas: Co-founder tion or youth group membership) are event is co-sponsored by the Jewish STANDING SEAM METAL ASPHALT SHINGLES and proprietor of the Mezze welcome to join HOTY, PFTY, and USY Federation of the Berkshires and the Written Estimates • Fully Insured • Owner Installed MA Lic. #145878 Restaurant Group, she is an participants for an afternoon of group Harold Grinspoon Foundation. SEAMLESS GUTTERS advocate for shaping a com- building and problem solving on the Copper • Aluminum • Gutter Covers

“We like your smile when we’re done” A+ S31033 Page 12 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 13 LOCAL NEWS Former Marine Takes Over as Commander of The Trial of Aaron: A Court- Berkshire Chapter of Jewish War Veterans room Drama Based on a

Robert Waldheim, who Jewish community. He hopes Well-Known Biblical Story served in Vietnam with the to organize a meeting before United States Marine Corps Veterans Day in November PITTSFIELD – On Sunday, the Kristallnacht observance. (USMC), is the new com- so that local Jewish veterans October 18 at 2 p.m., Temple He is co-director of the Hud- mander of the local chapter can be well represented at Anshe Amunim will present a son-based play development of Jewish War Veterans of the commemorations scheduled professional staged reading of group Plays in Progress. United States of America. He for 2015 and beyond. Those The Trial of Aaron, an original The play will be directed says he is proud to follow in interested in more informa- courtroom drama in which by Dr. Barbara Waldinger, the footsteps of the late Robert tion can contact Waldheim via Aaron is accused of violating a director and professor of Shindler, who led the group for email at [email protected], or via the Ten Commandments by Theatre. Dr. Waldinger has decades. telephone at (413) 822-4546. constructing the Golden Calf. taught at Hofstra Universi- “This is not an obligation,” Waldheim has long been Written by temple member ty, Marymount College, and says the Dalton resident. “It’s active in veteran’s affairs in Jesse Waldinger, The Trial of Queens College, and is pres- an honor to carry on this re- the region, and is a member Aaron focuses on the well- ently an OLLI instructor. She sponsibility.” A Berkshire na- of the color guard of Vietnam known biblical story about serves as artistic director of how, while Moses was atop HRC Showcase Theatre, an tive, he says he was inspired Veterans of America James E. Robert Waldheim by the service of recently Callahan Berkshire Chapter Mount Sinai receiving the Ten Equity-approved company deceased local Jewish veter- 65. He was one of nine Berk- States of America is an affiliate Commandments, his brother that performs staged readings ans such as Shindler, Sidney shire residents who enlisted member of the Jewish Fed- Aaron constructed a golden of new plays in Hudson, NY. Novick (veteran of the invasion in the USMC in 1966, he says, eration of the Berkshires. In calf that the fickle Children of She also directs new plays for of Iwo Jima), and his own “all of whom made it home.” addition to participating in Israel proceeded to worship. the Association of Theatre in father-in-law, Bernard Snyder, He served overseas in the annual commemoration cere- Witnessing this transgression, Higher Education, the Kenne- among many others. infantry as an MOS 0311 rifle- monies, Jewish War Veterans an enraged Moses threw the dy Center American College Waldheim is looking to man in 1967-68. also perform the flag ceremony tablets to the ground, and ret- Theatre Festival, and Plays in increase participation among The local chapter of Jewish at the funerals of members of ribution followed. But Aaron Progress, in addition to teach- younger veterans in the War Veterans of the United the Armed Forces. was never called to account for ing and directing at Temple violating the mandate against Anshe Amunim. idolatry. Refreshments will be served What was Aaron think- while the jury deliberates, and Berkshire Hills Hadassah to Support Jeru- ing? Was he guilty of a capital a discussion, featuring Rabbi offense? Why was he never Josh Breindel, will follow the salem Hospital at its Annual Donor Brunch punished? These questions verdict. Admission is $25; will be theatrically explored, members $20, and students PITTSFIELD – Berkshire Hills was Hadassah’s centennial gift all patients throughout the and Aaron’s fate will be de- free. Proceeds will benefit Tem- Hadassah will hold its 78th to the people of Israel. Recog- Middle East. The entire Berk- termined by a jury of select ple Anshe Amunim’s religious annual donor brunch on nized throughout the world shire community is invited to audience members, based on education programs. October 18 at 11 a.m. at the as a leading teaching and share an afternoon of joy and evidence drawn largely from Temple Anshe Amunim is Crowne Plaza Hotel. This year, research inpatient facility, the giving. biblical text. a Reform Jewish congregation the group will honor Helene hospital has healing gardens, For more information on Actors performing in The that promotes engaging and and Larry Berke for their 32 500 innovative patient rooms, attending the brunch, do- Trial of Aaron include Paul widespread participation in years of dedication and stead- and 20 state-of-the-art below nations, and Berkshire Hills Carter, Kate Hettesheimer, An- services, education, and social fast support of Hadassah and ground operating rooms that Hadassah, please email: drew Joffe, Hana Kenny, Ted action programs. the Berkshire Jewish commu- are fortified against attack. Berkshirehillshadassah@ Phelps, John Romeo and John TO RSVP or for more infor- nity. Berkshire Hills Hadassah gmail.com. The Crowne Plaza Trainor. mation, contact the Temple Dedicated in 2012, the hopes to equip and furnish is located at 1 West Street in Jesse Waldinger is an at- Anshe Amunim office at (413) Sarah Wetsman Davidson these rooms to help the hos- Pittsfield. torney, playwright, and author 442-5910, email templeoffice@ Hospital Tower in Jerusalem pital fulfill its mission to serve of The Finaly Affair, which ansheamunim.org or visit debuted at Temple Anshe www.ansheanumim.org. Amunim last fall as part of

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As my parents planted for me before I was born, so do I plant for those who come after me. – Talmud Thank you to these individuals who through their gift to the Legacy Circle will ensure that the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires thrives long into the future. May your name be a Blessing, and may the example you set inspire others to create their own Jewish Legacy.

Lawrence Berke Stuart M. Fischman Toby H. Levine Harold Sparr Lee & Sydelle Blatt Lynn & William Foggle Erna Lindner-Gilbert Lisa Fletcher-Udel Betty Braun Elaine Freidman Amy Lindner-Lesser Edward Udel Cipora Brown Eiran Gazit Helen Maislen Michael & Joan Ury Barbara Cohen Jeffrey Goldwasser & Jonquil Ellen Masters Mark & Judy Usow Mark Cohen Wolfson Stuart Masters Henry & Beate Voremberg, Mimi Cohen Jordan & Laura Green Estelle Miller of blessed memory C. Jeffrey & Judith Cook Harold Grinspoon Robert Newman, of blessed Alexandra Warshaw Gerry & Lynn Denmark Ellen Heffan memory Florence Wineberg, of blessed Jonathan & Lara Denmark Ed Jaffe, of blessed memory Ken & Fran Rubenstein memory Sheila K. Donath Elihu Katzman Stella Schecter Rabbi Deborah Zecher & Anonymous (9) Melva Eidelberg Marilyn Katzman Arlene D. Schiff Rabbi Dennis Ross Ed Abrahams Monroe England, in memory of Howard & Nancy Kaufman Gary Schiff Norman Avnet Monroe B. & Isabel England Lawrence Klein Stephen & Deborah Schreier Barbara Bashevkin Dr. Armand V. Feigenbaum, Sarah Klein Martin Silver Robert Bashevkin of blessed memory Arthur Kriger, of blessed Sylvia Silverberg, in memory of Linda J. L. Becker Dr. Donald S. Feigenbaum, memory Jerome Silverberg Robert Berend of blessed memory Fred & Brenda Landes Richard A. Simons & Marcie Shelley Berend Steven Feiner Beth Laster-Nathan Greenfield Simons Helene Berke Diana & Stanley Feld Andrew S. Levine Mark & Elisa Snowise Page 12 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 13 OBITUARIES

Irene Schwalbe, 84, legal Berkshires. She volunteered He was an indispensable and then retired and moved to Mr. Wein was the longtime secretary and homemaker with the NJ Philharmonic adviser to his clients, many of the Berkshires in 1979. owner and operator of Wein’s PITTSFIELD – Mrs. Irene Orchestra, the Special Olym- whom became lifelong friends. She was a member of Shoe Store on Eagle Street Schwalbe 84, of 20 Strong pics, and The Bach Society Actively involved for years in Congregation Knesset Israel in North Adams. He was an Avenue died Sunday, July 12 of the Berkshires, as well as the New York Civil Liberties and a member of the Beth active member and former at Sweetbrook of Williamstown with Temple Israel’s Women’s Union, Mr. Shack was a cham- Israel Hospital Boston Nurse’s president of Congregation Rehabilitation and Nursing Group (now Sharey Tefilo Isra- pion of the underdog. Alumni and the Verizon Hug- Beth Israel, where he coached Center in Williamstown. el) of South Orange. Born and raised in Brook- a-Bear. She enjoyed crocheting basketball in the North Adams Born in Pittsfield on July She loved spending time lyn, he was heartbroken when and made baby hats for the church league. His love of 26, 1930, a daughter of the with her many friends and his Dodgers moved west but nursery at Berkshire Medical basketball extended to Drury late Harry and Letty (Honig- large family at her weekend quickly shifted his “wait until Center. Her husband, Harry Z. High School, where he was man) Mindlin, she attended home in the Berkshires for next year” brand of fandom Tallen died on April 27, 2007. acknowledged as Drury’s #1 Pittsfield schools, graduated more than 40 years. She and to the Mets. He loved tennis, They were married on April 5, sports fan. He served as mas- from Pittsfield High School her husband, Sheldon, rarely sailing, swimming, lively con- 1941. ter of ceremonies at many end- with honors, and graduat- missed a performance in the versation, theater, music, good Mrs. Tallen was prede- of-year sports banquets and in ed from Pittsfield Secretarial music shed at Tanglewood. books, good food, and good ceased by a brother, Joseph 2002, Drury High School re- School. Mrs. Gross is survived by Scotch. He was most of all de- Sandler, in 1954. named its annual Christmas Mrs. Schwalbe was em- her husband, Sheldon Gross, voted to his family. He lost his Funeral services took place tournament the “Gene Wein ployed as a legal secretary for to whom she was married for loving wife of 61 years, Barba- on Monday, July 27, at Con- Holiday Tournament.” Attorney Albert Silverman for 55 years. ra, barely a month ago. gregation Knesset Israel, with Mr. Wein married Jacque- 15 years. She was a home- She leaves her brother, Mr. Shack was a rock in Rabbi David Weiner, spiritu- line Diana Winer on October maker who enjoyed cooking, Mike Edelstein and wife, Evie; the lives of his children, David al leader, officiating. Burial 12, 1947, in Springfield, MA. reading, and spending time her children, Jon Gross and and Laura; a beacon for his followed in Knesset Israel She died on May 2, 2006. with her family. She was also Marcy Gross Glick; stepdaugh- grandchildren, Nicole, Joseph, Cemetery. Memorial donations Survivors include a son, an avid skier and ice skater. ters Barbara Gross (Michael) and Francesca, to whom he may be made to Berkshire Hu- Lawrence Wein of Palo Alto, Survivors include her hus- Franklin and Jackie Gross was affectionately known as mane Society in care of Flynn CA, and three daughters, band Norman Schwalbe, mar- (Stuart) Siris; and five grand- Papa; and looked forward & Dagnoli-Bencivenga Funeral Sherry Wein and Rober- ried July 1, 1962; one son, Hal children, Adam, Lorah, Travis, to providing direction to his Home, 5 Elm St., Pittsfield, MA ta Sullivan of North Adams Schwalbe and his wife Liane of Alex, and Jennifer. great-grandchildren, Emma 01201. and Paulette Wein of Adams; Indianapolis, IN; brother Irving Funeral services were held and Olivia. The family will sons-in-law, John Sullivan Mindlin and his wife Esther of at Bernheim Apter, Living- miss his penetrating mind, The Jewish Federation of and Robert Wray and daugh- Pittsfield; and several nieces ston, NJ on Friday, July 24. his social conscience, his deep the Berkshires extends ter-in-law, Anne Wein; and and nephews. She was pre- Donations can be made to the love for his family, and his its condolences to one six grandchildren, Andrew deceased by four brothers; Adam Goodkind NF2 Family loyalty to his friends. of our most dedicated Sullivan, Aaron Wray, Emily Robert Mindlin, David Mindlin, Fund at the Children’s Tumor A memorial service was and cherished volun- Sullivan Pace, and Alexander, Herman Mindlin, and Arthur Foundation, 120 Wall Street, held at Plaza Jewish Commu- teers, Merle Ferber, whose Nicole, and Natasha Wein. He Mindlin. 16th floor, New York, NY nity Chapel, New York, NY on mother Ethel passed on also leaves his sisters, Selma Graveside services took 10005-3904 or via the internet Sunday, July 26 Contributions July 22 in Bronx, NY. Weitz of Brookfield, CT, and place Thursday, July 16 at at https://grow.ctf.org/fami- may be made to The American Gertrude Silverstein of Need- Ahavath Sholem Cemetery, lyfund and selecting the Adam Civil Liberties Union. ham, MA. He was predeceased Eugene Wein, 93, Drury Pittsfield, with Rabbi David Goodkind NF2 fund. by a brother, Dr. Stanley Wein Helen Tallen, 97, High School’s #1 Sports Weiner, spirtitual leader of of Valley Stream, NY. Donald Shack, 86, cham- registered nurse and x-ray Congregation Knesset Israel, Fan The family would like pion of the underdog officiating. technician NORTH ADAMS – Eugene to thank the Williamstown NEW YORK – Donald Shack PITTSFIELD – Mrs. Helen D. Wein, longtime Northern Commons staff for its extraor- Charlotte Gross, 80, rare- died peacefully at home on Tallen, 97, of 64 Merriam St., Berkshire civic and business dinary care and compassion, ly missed a performance Sunday, July 12, after a short died Friday, July 24 at her leader and devoted Drury High and to express their deepest at Tanglewood illness, surrounded by his home. School sports fan, died on gratitude to friend and caregiv- SOUTH ORANGE, NJ – Char- family. Born in Boston on October Sunday, August 2 at William- er Stephen Michalenko. lotte Gross passed away on Mr. Shack graduated from 16, 1917, a daughter of the stown Commons, surrounded Funeral services were Wednesday, July 22, sur- Williams College (Phi Beta late Reuben & Tillie (Cohen) by his loving family. held Wednesday, August 5 at rounded by her family. Kappa) and Harvard Law Sandler, she attended Boston Born in North Adams on MCLA’s Church Street Center. Born in White Plains, NY on School before serving in the schools and graduated from February 7, 1922, a son of the Burial followed at Beth Israel January 21, 1935 to John and Korean War. For more than 60 the former Beth Israel Hospi- late Harry and Anna (Kronick) Cemetery. Memorial donations Gertrude (Nurick) Edelstein, years he had a distinguished tal School for Women, class of Wein, he attended schools in may be made to Congregation Mrs. Gross graduated from career practicing law in New 1939, and received her regis- North Adams, graduating from Beth Israel or the Drury High Cornell University with a BA in York City as the managing tered nurse degree. In 1961, Drury High School in 1939. He School Basketball Booster English. She was a salesper- partner of Golenbock and she graduated from Northeast- then attended Massachusetts Club, in care of the Flynn & son with Sheldon Gross Realty Berell, a founding partner of ern University and received an State College (now UMass) Dagnoli Funeral Home, 521 of West Orange, NJ and the Shack, Siegel, Katz & Flaherty, x-ray technician degree. where he was the manager of West Main Street North Ad- and a partner of Blank Rome. Mrs. Tallen was employed the football team. After grad- ams, MA 01247. at Boston Hospital for 32 uating in 1943, he enlisted

a a years, moved to Cape Cod in in the U.S. Army Air Corps The Jewish Federation Create a Jewish Legacy Campaign 1971, was employed at Cape and served during WWII as a of the Berkshires ex- tends condolences to the Please remember the Jewish Community in your will. Cod Hospital from 1971-1974, corporal. family of Boris Berlin who passed way unex- pectedly. A graveside funeral took place on Wednesday, August 5 at Shop for the Holiday at Knesset Israel cemetery.

n local & organic produce n fresh bakery Donate n pasture-raised beef brisket Volunteer from Ioka Valley Farm Make a Difference

For large quantities of brisket & bakery orders: please place your order 72 hours in advance. Call 413-458-8060.

320 Main Street • Williamstown, Mass. wildoats.coop Page 14 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 15

SEE the Berkshire ProgramsPrograms taketake placeplace MondaysMondays andand ThursdaysThursdays atat 10:4510:45 a.m.a.m. LunchLunch isis servedserved Mondays,Monday and Tuesdays Thursday Jewish Voice andat 12 Thursdays p.m, through at noon. September 3. Tuesday lunch resumes on September 8. Venue:Venue: CongregationCongregation KnessetKnesset Israel,Israel, 1616 ColtColt Rd,Rd, Pittsfield,Pittsfield, MA.MA. in COLOR at www. jewishberkshires. org

SEPTEMBER OCTOBER Monday, 7...... Closed for Labor Day Thursday, 1...... 10:45 a.m., Author Ruth Sidransky will talk about her life as a writer. Lunch: Hot dogs and Tuesday, 8...... Falafel**#, pineapple juice, Tahini beans, cranberry juice, salad, hot dog rolls, pineapple, sauce and/or yogurt sauce, simple cabbage slaw, pita and tea. bread, sugar cookies, coffee, tea, and milk for coffee. Monday, 5...... Closed for Shemini Atzeret Thursday, 10...... 10:45 a.m. “I am Glad There are Books. They are Better than Heaven” with Jane Wald, Ex- Tuesday, 6...... Closed for Simchat Torah ecutive Director of the Emily Dickinson Museum. Lunch: Thursday, 8 Roasted chicken**#, noodle soup, Parve kugel with ...... 10:45 a.m., “The Jewish Author Se- Lunch: Chicken tenders#, tomato apples and cinnamon, asparagus cuts n tips, salad, ries” with Hugh Black. soup, green beans, sweet potato fries, potato bread, Challah, honey cake, and tea. tropical fruit salad, and tea. Monday, 14...... Closed for Rosh Hashanah Monday, 12...... Closed for Columbus Day Tuesday, 15...... Closed for Rosh Hashanah Tuesday, 13...... Spaghetti and meat sauce#, salad, Thursday, 17...... 10:45 a.m. Qigong with Jeffrey broccoli, Italian bread, pears, and tea. Gordon. Lunch: Tuna fish and cottage cheese platters**, Thursday, 15 potato salad, whole wheat bread, pudding, coffee, tea, ...... 10:45 a.m., Program to be An- Lunch: Spinach mushroom quiche, pineapple and milk for coffee. nounced. juice, beets, salad, rolls, raspberry pillow cookies, Monday, 21...... 10:45 a.m., “Jazz in Blues and coffee, tea, and milk for coffee. The American Songbook” with guitarist, Sam Rosen and Monday, 19...... 10:45 a.m., Program to be An- pianist, Richard Evans. Lunch: Chicken with sundried Lunch: Chicken piccata**#, Italian wedding tomatoes and artichokes**#, salad, Italian vegetables, nounced. soup, rosemary potatoes, green beans, French bread, rice pilaf, French bread, mandarin oranges, and tea. grapes, and tea. Tuesday, 22...... Salami and pastrami frittata#, Tuesday, 20...... Sloppy Joes#, chicken noodle soup, celery rice soup, vegetable medley, multi-grain bread, baby carrots, salad, hamburger rolls, brownies, and tea. peaches and gingersnaps, and tea. Thursday, 22...... 10:45 a.m., Program to be An- Thursday, 24...... 10:45 a.m., “A Festival of Non-Fic- nounced. Lunch: Fresh fish**, curried asparagus soup, tion: A Look into Wind-up Fest” with Paul Sturtz, Artistic mixed vegetables, lentils & rice, rye bread, bread pud- Director of Williamstown Film Festival. Lunch: Vegetable ding, coffee, tea, and milk for coffee. lasagna, salad, beets, garlic bread sticks, strawberry shortcake, coffee, tea, and milk for coffee. Monday, 28...... Closed for Sukkot Tuesday, 29...... Closed for Sukkot

Linking Young Jewish Women in Their Fight Against Breast Cancer (866) 474-2774 www.sharsheret.org Page 14 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 15 Your Federation Presents

Jewishly Delicious from Jewish Farm to Jewish Table GREAT BARRINGTON – On Thursday, NY. In January 2010, October 8, the Jewish Federation of she opened At the the Berkshires hosts its latest Jewishly Kitchen Table Cook- Delicious event at Hevreh of Southern ing School in a teach- Berkshire. The theme is “Jewish Farm ing kitchen in Hills- to Jewish Table,” and this installment dale, NY. In addition features both a hands-on cooking to private and group class and a talk about Jewish farming lessons, Julie caters principles. small events such as At 10 a.m., chef-instructor Ju- wedding rehearsal lie Gale, owner of At the Kitchen dinners, anniver- Table Cooking School, will use lo- sary celebrations, cally-sourced produce to teach par- and private cooking ticipants how to prepare a beautiful, parties, and has been Chef Julie Gale healthy, and delicious Israeli Mediter- retreat chef for the ranean mezze of salads and spreads. Won Dharma Retreat leaders in the Jewish farming, The class costs $20 and is limited to Center in Claverack, environmental education, and 14 participants, who must reserve and preparing vegetari- food movements. Adamah’s pre-pay for their spots by October 2 an Korean meals for 200 alumni include food justice through the Federation at (413) 442- visiting groups. Gale advocates, rabbis, farmers, 4360, ext. 10. is the author of the community organizers, teach- At 11 a.m., all are invited to attend children’s cookbook ers, chefs, and green business a free talk by Shamu Sadeh, director of I Want to Cook, and leaders. the Adamah Fellowship program at the is currently at work Before coming to Adamah, Isabella Freedman Jewish Retreat Cen- on a memoir with Sadeh was a professor of envi- ter. Sadeh will discuss Jewish farming recipes. ronmental studies, writer, Jew- and how Adamah relates these Jewish ish educator, and wilderness About the Adamah guide. He directed the Teva principles into their organic farming Fellowship and farm-to-table philosophy. Learning Center in its early Tastings of the mezze salads, plus The Adamah years and completed a doctor- preserves and pickled items from Fellowship is a three- ate in Educational Leadership. Adamah’s farm, will follow the event. month leadership Sadeh has the yichus – ances- Items from Adamah’s farm store will training program for tral connections – for Adamah Jewish adults ages from his great-grandparents also be on sale. Adamah fellows hailing a cabbage Hevreh is located at 270 State 20-32 that integrates and father, Jewish farmers and Street in Great Barrington. organic agriculture, Shamu Sadeh co-founded Adamah gardeners who practiced the farm-to-table living, Jewish learning, and has been its program director mystical arts of composting and soil About Julie Gale, Chef and Cooking community building, and spiritual since 2004. He has led the growth conservation. In 2010, the Forward Instructor practice. Adamah is located in Falls of Adamah into the most productive named Sadeh one of the “Forward 50” In 2001, after working as a social Village, CT, where fellows live sur- Jewish educational farm in the coun- who made significant contributions to worker, Julie followed her lifelong pas- rounded by the beauty of the natural try, with a transformative fellowship Jewish life in America. sion for cooking and opened her own world and the Isabella Freedman Jew- program that has produced dozens of cooking school in Westchester County, ish Retreat Center. Page 16 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 17 Your Federation Presents

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1 Thank You, Major Donors The Jewish Federation of the Berkshires hosted more than 170 supporters at its Major Donors Breakfast on July 12 at Cranwell Resort & Spa in Lenox. Co-chair Natalya Yantovsky recounted the moving story of how her family fled anti-Semitism in Eastern Europe and the impact the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires had in helping them create a better, stronger Jewish life for themselves and their children. While Natalya expressed gratitude for the past, she also emphasized the urgent needs of the present. “Right now there are thousands of Jews caught in conflicts fleeing anti-Semitism in Europe,” she said. “Sergey and I feel deeply that through Fed- eration we can provide the support they need for a better life.” Natalya identified the vital role that major donors play in ensuring future success. Major donors, she said, provide 80 percent of the Federation’s campaign funds. She added: “I also want to recognize the many second homeowners who are with us today. More than 40 percent of the 1,200 gifts Federation receives come from you. We want you to know how grateful we are that you have chosen to be part of what we do.” Attendees were treated to an inspiring performance by vio- linist Yevgeny Kutik, Natalya’s cousin, whose family was also 2 3 resettled here. He gives back by advocating on behalf of the Jewish Federations of North America to raise awareness about the worldwide refugee crisis. About his past, Kutik says: “As a kid, I always remember thinking that I had two families – my immediate one and then the Jewish community of the Berk- shires. It was a wonderful way to grow up.” In advocating for Federation, Kutik shared “the most import- ant thing I learned from this community is that when people come together, they truly can heal the world.” The event raised critical dollars for the Federation’s local programs and services and for the growing needs of Jews in the Ukraine, France, and Israel.

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1. Amy Lindner-Lesser, Jewish Federation of the 8. Robert & Elaine Baum, Joan & Michael Ury 14. Eitan & Malka Evan, Sharon & Ira Siegel Berkshires president, with Co-Chairs Natalya 9. Jill & Hal Gaffin, Mimi Cohen 15. Hal Gaffin, Mimi & Saul Cohen & Sergey Yantovsky 10. Jane Glaser, Elihu & Marilyn Katz 16. Arnold &Tatyana Mazurenko (Natalya’s parents) and 2. Yevgeny Kutik 11. Anne Schnesel, Elaine & Ben Silberstein Lyubov Kutik (Natalya & Yevgeny’s grandmorther) 3. Natalya telling her family’s story with the Yantovskys 12. Howard Levi, Alan & Toby Morganstein, 4. Ellen Silberstein, Helene Berger Ruth Glazerman 17. Alan & Toby Morganstein 5. Howard & Judy Levin, Ed & Carol Oshinsky 13. William & Lynn Foggle, Stan Greenfield, 18. Phyllis & Robert Yawitt, Judy & Howard Levin 6. Michael Albert, Ken Stark Gaye Moelis, Hope Silverman 19. Ellen Masters, Gary Schiff 7. Paul & Joan Gluck, Gloria Luria Page 18 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 19 Your Federation Presents

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Member, Union for Register now for the 2015-2016 Reform Judaism Hevreh Religious School year! call to speak with Rabbi Jodie Gordon or Joan Goldberg Munch today meet our new rabbinic team! ...... Rabbi Neil P.G. Hirsch and Rabbi Jodie Gordon 270 State Road / Great Barrington, MA 01230 / 413.528.6378 ...... Member, Union for Reform Judaism 270 State Road / Great Barrington, MA 01230 / 413.528.6378 hevreh.org Register for services at hevreh.org Cantorial Soloist Josh Zecher-Ross Page 18 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 19

BERKSHIRE JEWISH VOICES Raising the Bar in Bar (and Bat) Mitzvahs: How Much Is Too High? By Mara Goodman-Davies

streets of New York, trying not Rather than being diverted our family and friends togeth- level of joy in his all too short to step in pigeon droppings as by this band of bleak-and- er to revel in a fan-tab-u-lous life. subway steam blew in my face, bland-blah bat-mitzvah bum- life-affirming party? I am also glad to say I am I soon came back to reality. I mers, I instead see rainbows We could easily take the not alone in this thinking. I knew that however high my when they try to rain on my money we’ve carefully saved have been to some beautiful hopes, I could not control my parade. Really, who has the and go on a big trip all by bar and bat mitzvahs here not-yet-born daughter’s fate – right to put the price on my ourselves. We don’t have to in the Berkshires that have but I could still give her a heck joy or tell me how spirituali- entertain over 100 people for fit all budgets, families, and of a bat mitzvah. This was my ty should look? You want to three full days. But we don’t religious requirements. The right as a mother-to-be! try to convince me that a 12 want to ask everyone to come constant that has made them You see, I had more than year old girl is going to have from far and wide just to feed all so special is the love that dreamed of a fairytale recep- a life-changing, soul-shaking them cold fish on a semi-stale was shared when people came tion for myself. Years prior, I epiphany from davening for bagel. Our joy surrounding together. had planned two gorgeous, ro- endless hours on one Sat- this bas mitzvah will not just Those of us who make a big I remember sitting in my mantic destination weddings, urday morning? Not unless come from our daughter’s big production might leave our- obstetrician’s office in Man- one in the English countryside Taylor Swift is the rabbi. I achievement. It will be the col- selves wide open for ridicule. hattan’s Lenox Hill Hospital and the other at the Breakers can’t remember exactly what lective consciousness of love, Sure, it can be quite amusing almost 12 years ago. “Con- Hotel in my hometown of Palm I was thinking during my support, and giving that will to poke fun at a flamboyant gratulations,” the doctor said, Beach, FL. What happened? bat mitzvah, but I definitely fill our hearts for many years family event that resem- smiling as he showed me the My engagement to the same wasn’t sitting on the bimah to come. So what if we want to bles “My Big Fat Jewish Bat sonogram images. “You’re go- creep got called off twice. (You contemplating my future life do it in a glammed-up, jubi- Mitzvah.” On the other hand, ing to have a baby girl.” If you bet I kept the ring.) So, when I as a committed Jewish wom- lant style? my attitude is that we’re not ask a cross-section of expect- finally met, Justin, my bashert an, a supporter of Israel, and Funny enough, my mother showing off for our friends and ant mothers what they were and Prince Charming, I had a Jewish community leader. from Florida will be eighty- family – what we are really thinking when presented with ice cold feet about planning I was probably daydreaming nine years old next year. She doing is showing up for them. this exact scenario, I am sure another big wedding. about what Sean Cassidy, is the only close relative I have Life throws us all a lot of unex- you’d get answers such as In the end, we had a lovely John Travolta, and Leif Garret left. Although she is consid- pected tzuris and angst. There- “Thrill! Wonder! Pink hearts! and sensible low-key luncheon would look like in a tallis and ered a mighty force of nature, fore, I am fortified by knowing Sweet kisses! Golden ringlets!” wedding at my uncle’s country yarmulka. the truth is she may not be I am taking advantage of this My all-consuming thought, club on Long Island. But I told Sure, my daughter will around for my daughter’s once-in-a-lifetime simcha to however, at that profound my husband that someday I learn a lot about our Jewish wedding, just like my father create joyful merriment for instance was: “BAT MITZ- was going to want to throw history and customs from wasn’t around for mine. Thank the irreplaceable people in our VAH!” And not just any old a lavish party to celebrate a her preparation. I also know goodness, my father shared lives. Now what could be more balloon-twisting, line dancing, happy family occasion. My dear she’ll become a better person our same “live now” philoso- spiritually rewarding than kasha knishes and franks- one agreed to this, and we went from the two mitzvah projects phy and gave me his version of that? in-a-blanket-bat mitzvah. about creating the necessary she’ll be doing. But let’s get “Bat Mitzvah of the Century,” Let the party begin! Right then and there, I knew I financial “party-savings plan” real folks – my bat mitzvah so many years ago. Looking wanted a bat mitzvah blowout! for our future. And when my girl is still just a kiddo. As she back, I know he enjoyed and Mara Goodman-Davies is the Without shame, I envisioned husband came home on the grows up, she will process appreciated my bat mitzvah author of two novels and two a knock-your-socks-off, black day I visited my OB-GYN, I met G-d, Judaism and the whole way more than I probably did works of non-fiction. She is tie, bank-busting three day him at our front door waving religion thing at her own pace. at my young age. I believe that on the board of directors of extravaganza of champagne the sonogram printout ecstat- So why shouldn’t we make her too was a blessing, because he the Jewish Federation of the toasts feting 12 years of my ically while screaming: “We’re bat mitzvah about bringing got to experience an amazing Berkshires. soon-to-be daughter’s glorious having a BAT MITZVAH!!!!” existence. I wanted a parade Eleven years later, I am of ice sculptures, huge floral deep into planning my daugh- centerpieces, and invitations ter’s bas mitzvah (we like with rhinestones and purple to use the more sibilantly fake fur. I imagined music and hamish-sounding “bas” instead dancing. Glamour and glitter. of “bat”). While my nearest A chocolate fountain. and dearest are thrilled for an Even then, I knew that event they know is SO im- above all I wanted to invite as portant to me, I’ve also heard many friends and family from comments like: “Oh Mara, around the world to share today bat mitzvahs are sub- in my happiness at having dued affairs. Nobody spends brought a little girl into this much or makes that big of a world, who OF COURSE would deal anymore.” And: “The food grow up to an “aishes chayil,” doesn’t have to be that good. a woman of valor, if not the As long as they have some- doctor who cured cancer and/ thing to hold in their hands or the president of the United and eat, it will be fine.” Plus: States. Doesn’t every Jewish “The focus should be on the mother think the same things? ‘mitzvah,’ not the ‘bar.’” Final- Yes, all these crazy, won- ly: “After all, too much is too derful ideas ran through my much. It just isn’t done in the head as I wiped the ultra- Berkshires.” sound jelly off of my round Well guess what folks? Yes stomach. Walking out onto the it is!

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Each year just before the haps we can overcome it. Our movement releases a new High Holy Days, I find my- tradition teaches that there machzor, entitled Mishkan self having this conversation: are two aspects fearing of God, HaNefesh. At Reform con- “Rabbi, I really look forward one of which is a sense of gregations all around North to Rosh Hashanah and Yom awe when witness to majesty. America, including Hevreh, Kippur services each year,” the It’s about wonder. Suddenly, congregants will have both other person will say, “but I fearing God does not seem so the text and counter-texts. At struggle with my belief in God. fearful. Hevreh, we will begin to use All I read in the prayer book is Many moments of day-to- the new machzor in select about fearing God, and trem- day life contain these oppor- services — on the second day bling before the gates. Avinu tunities for awe. It’s there in a of Rosh Hashanah and on Yom Malkeinu, our Father our King beautiful hike, in the quieter Kippur afternoon. This new – I can’t believe in that sort of moments on the front porch High Holiday prayer book is God.” with the morning coffee and a significant milestone in our I relate to what the other daily crossword, or in witness- community, as it also chal- person tells me. I, too, get ing children at play. Those lenges each of us who prays stuck in the difficult theo- sweet moments conjure up a with it to consider the different PHOTO: DAVID A.M. WILENSKY/JTA PHOTO: DAVID logical language. Prayers like sense of simple wonder; surely aspects of our relationships Unetanei Tokef, where we talk something sacred is happen- with God. The editors of the about who shall live and who ing. new machzor intentionally God—our attempts to firmly problematic language, and to shall die, challenge a pray- Our prayer lives, too, offer include varied theologies, believe in God—are complicat- further explore our personal er’s personal theology. Still, I the opportunity for awe-filled because, as Rabbi David ed. Language can be sticky, so relationships with God. take comfort in knowing that moments—when a particular Stern, senior rabbi at Temple I am grateful that there are op- our tradition has space for a phrase in our liturgy resonates Emanu-El of Dallas, writes, portunities to both challenge Rabbi Neil P.G. Hirsch was flexible relationship with God. for us, when we feel the uplift “Names delimit, and God is and complicate God. The Re- installed as spiritual leader at The High Holy Days are an that comes from a communi- limitless.” form movement’s new machzor Hevreh of Southern Berkshire opportunity to explore that ty’s collective singing voice, Each year, as the High Holy is an awesome opportunity, in during the summer. relationship. or when we hug friends and Days arrive, I am reminded the truest sense of the word, Much of the language of the family as we enter the shul for that our relationships with to unstick ourselves from High Holiday liturgy revolves services. around the concept of Yirat So, when we arrive at the Shamayim, the fear and awe High Holy Days, and encoun- of Heaven. We read about the ter language that describes Binding of Isaac, in which God a God whom we should fear, commands Abraham to make a God who is wrathful and a terrible offering of his son. violent, we long for a count- Be Wise… Advertise! This serves as one version of er-text. God can also be kind, In the Berkshire Jewish Voice what our tradition means by loving, and patient. The High fearing God. For many, loving Holy Days invite us into a Contact Jenny Greenfeld a fearful God is unrealistic. relationship with that God, as (413) 442-4360, ext. 13 Why bother trying? well. In truth, if we can confront This year, for the first time [email protected] that which challenges us, per- in a generation, the Reform Page 20 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 21 BERKSHIRE JEWISH VOICES Traveling with Jewish Taste Jewish Soul Food: From Minsk to Marrakesh – Global Cooking to Satisfy Guf and Nefesh By Carol Goodman Kaufman

It was such fun cooking my way through Ottolenghi hardic date-filled cookies and flourless double almond cookies on my to-do list. and Tamimi’s cookbook, Jerusalem, that I’ve decided to Jewish Soul Food, while providing a nice selection of recipes from Diaspora try another. This time it’s Janna Gur’s recent volume, kitchens, suffers from a lack of thoroughness in the editing. Throughout the book, I Jewish Soul Food: From Minsk to Marrakesh (Schocken, found several glaring errors and omissions that were frustrating. Gur, for example, 2014), a large format, beautifully illustrated volume tells the reader that it is okay to put the eggplant into the oven or broiler for Blue whose photographs are cause for salivating. Anybody Ones and Red Ones, but doesn’t say for how long or at what temperature to do so. who comes within ten feet of my kitchen, whether fam- In the rugelach recipe, her neglecting to advise the reader to roll the dough out on a ily, friend, or plumber, must sample the results of my floured surface can lead to messy results for the inexperienced baker. And some- experiments. times, the title of the recipe and its components don’t match. Honey was in the long I started my journey with Gur’s version of krupnik. name of T’bit, but was not listed among the ingredients. The stew was fine without No, not the honey-spiced vodka of the same name, but the honey, but could it have been so much better with it? the delicious Polish mushroom barley soup. More like a stew than a soup, it is chock full of stick-to-your ribs ingredients perfect for a chilly night (luckily – or not – we had a cold streak in June): barley, two kinds of mushroom, onions, garlic, carrots, celeriac, pars- Moroccan Spicy Carrot Salad nip, potatoes, and more. Fall will be here sooner than we like to admit, so try this soup. Serves 6 to 8 I had noticed that many recipes from both Gur’s and Ottolenghi’s cookbooks call for preserved lemons, a condiment commonly used in Indian, North African, I chose to make the pickled lemons myself because I like to do stuff like that. and Cambodian cuisine, so I decided to try my hand at making them. I was, To make this recipe a lot faster (the lemons take several months to cure), hie frankly, a bit nervous to pull out the mason jars – visions of botulism poisoning thee to your nearest specialty grocer and buy them. dancing in my head – but then relieved to learn that the Bell company now advis- es that putting them through a cycle in the dishwasher is good enough to prevent a hideous death. The lemons sat for a month in the fridge steeping in spices and chili peppers, at which point said flavorings were removed. Then they sat alone in their lemon juice bath for another couple months. The lemons’ inaugural appearance came in the form of a Moroccan Spicy Car- rot Salad, an appetizer commonly seen on mezze platters – and for good reason. Their bright color makes for a sunny visual contrast to the darker eggplant and tabouli salads, while the lemons add a notable punch to the salad, assisted ably by garlic, cumin, and mint. Another salad I tried was Blue Ones and Red Ones, a Romanian dish from Gur’s childhood that she claims is the best eggplant salad she’s ever tasted. It is not that for me, but the combination of eggplants, tomatoes, onions, and garlic provides tang and texture. As for the onions, I would recommend using a sweet variety such as vidalia, so as not to overpower the other ingredients. Our first entrée from the book was Salona, an Iraqi sweet and sour fish casse- Ingredients: role made with eggplant and tomatoes. The house smelled wonderful and the dish 6 medium carrots, sliced into below or store-bought) featured an interesting blend of flavors. The eggplant, however, was a bit tough, ¾-inch (2-cm) coins 5 garlic cloves, minced so using the long and thin ichiban variety, cut into coins, might yield more tender 3 cups water 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice results, and eliminate the extra step of peeling. 1½ teaspoons sugar 1 teaspoon ground cumin T’bit (Stuffed Chicken and Rice Hamin with Honey and Spices), is a Sephardic 1½ teaspoons salt ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil version of cholent, the long-cooking stew observant Jews prepare for the Shabbat 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice Salt afternoon meal. This Iraqi version calls for baharat, a mix of spices that includes 1 to 2 tablespoons harissa ¼ cup fresh cilantro or mint leaves, cardamom, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. The heady aro- 1 tablespoon pickled (Moroccan) chopped ma of the chicken cooking in spiced rice filled the house with anticipation, and we lemons, finely chopped (see were rewarded with an excellent meal (I was thrilled, because the mehutanim were with us for the weekend). The chicken fell off the bone, so much so that I would recommend letting the bird cool after taking it out of the oven so that you can remove the skin and bones before serving. Directions: The two former recipes both call for grated tomatoes and onions in addition to Put the sliced carrots in a saucepan and add the water, sugar, salt, and lemon chopped, something I had never encountered before. I’m not sure that this step juice. actually added much to the recipes, so you can probably skip this if you are short on time. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat, and simmer, partially covered, for 10 to 12 My favorite recipe in the book (so far) was Bulgarian Peppers Stuffed with Rice minutes, until the carrots are tender but still have some bite. and Meat. We don’t use red meat in our house very often, so preparing this recipe Transfer the carrots to a bowl (save some of the cooking liquid). was a special occasion, and I prayed that it would be worth the cholesterol. Was it ever. The variety of textures – onions, pine nuts, ground beef – paired beauti- Add the harissa, pickled lemons, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, olive oil, salt, and fully with the savory flavors and aromas. Be forewarned that the recipe is way off about ¼ cup of the cooking liquid and mix. on several points, however. The called-for ten to twelve peppers for ten ounces of Let cool. Taste and adjust the seasoning. meat is pretty stingy. I used a pound of ground beef for seven large peppers. And, the recipe’s call for a cooking time of one and a half hours would have rendered Refrigerate for a few hours, preferably overnight, to let the flavors meld. my peppers into mush. I found they were perfect at forty-five minutes. As a bo- The salad will keep for 3 to 4 days in the fridge. nus, the orange peppers looked like cheerful little pumpkins with jaunty caps, Before serving, bring to room temperature and toss with the cilantro or making me file this recipe away for use on Sukkot, when stuffed foods are tradi- mint. tional fare to honor the harvest holiday. The first Jerusalem kugel I ever saw was actually in Jerusalem, at the Ye- Excerpted from JEWISH SOUL FOOD by Janna Gur. Copyright © 2014 by shurun synagogue on King George Street. Tall and imposing, it was unlike any Janna Gur. Excerpted by permission of Schocken Books, a division of Random kugel I had ever tasted, a contrast of sweet and spicy. The very few ingredients in House LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this excerpt may be reproduced or Gur’s Ashkenazi Jerusalemite Jerusalem kugel recipe include a full tablespoon of reprinted without permission in writing from the publisher. black pepper that, combined with caramelized sugar, made for an unusual result. The family loved it. I could take it or leave it. For dessert, I decided on Bonnie’s Jam and Pecan Rugelach, an American twist on the traditional Ashkenazi pastry. Using apricot preserves, toasted pe- Carol Goodman Kaufman is a psychologist and author with a passion for travel cans, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a dough made with lots of butter and cream and food. She is currently at work on a food history/cookbook, tracing the paths cheese, it was decadently rich – and delicious. We and the mehutanim polished that some of our favorite foods have taken from their origins to appear on dinner off three dozen in three days. plates and in cultural rites and artifacts around the world. She invites readers to Deadline loomed, so I had to stop before trying more dessert recipes. My bath- read her blog at carolgoodmankaufman.com and to follow her on Twitter room scale is heaving a sigh of relief, but I’ve given it notice that I still have Sep- @goodmankaufman.

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Assisted Living . Memory Care . Respite Page 22 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 23 l HIGH HOLY SERVICES AND CELEBRATIONS l

The Jewish Federation of the Berkshires High Holy Day Dates wishes all a happy and healthy 5776. Holiday Date Candle Lighting Havdalah The schedules that appear were provided by local Slichot Saturday, September 5 congregations, which should be contacted directly for Erev Rosh Hashanah Sunday, September 13 6:48 p.m. more information, confirmation of times and events, Rosh Hashanah – First Day Monday, September 14 and details about other planned holiday season pro- Rosh Hashanah – Second Day Tuesday, September 15 7:44 p.m. gramming that may not be listed. The congregational Yom Kippur/Kol Nidre Tuesday, September 22 6:32 p.m. directory with contact information and addresses is Yom Kippur Wednesday, September 23 7:30 p.m. on page 24. Services will take place at the locations Erev Sukkot Sunday, September 27 6:23 p.m. listed in the directory, except as noted Sukkot – First Day Yom Tov Monday, September 28 in the listings that follow. Sukkot – Second Day Yom Tov Tuesday, September 29 7:19 p.m. Sukkot – Chol Ha’Moed Wednesday, September 30 – Candle lighting and Havdalah times are for Saturday, October 3 Pittsfield and were taken from the Congregation Hoshanah Rabbah Sunday, October 4 6:11 p.m. Knesset Israel calendar. Shemini Atzeret Monday, October 5 Simchat Torah Tuesday, October 6 7:07 p.m.

Temple Anshe Amunim Hevreh of Southern Berkshire

“This new year marks a unique milestone,” says Rabbi Josh Rabbi Neil P.G. Hirsch will lead his first High Breindel. “Our sanctuary has been completely remodeled to Holy Day services at Hevreh, joined by Rabbi Jodie reflect a modern esthetic. Even more importantly, with our new Gordon, and will use the Reform movement’s new elevator and redesigned bimah (raised ritual space), everyone machzor, Mishkan HaNefesh. (Please see Rabbi can participate equally Hirsch’s article on page 20.) in our worship.” Temple members leave the syn- SERVICES agogue on the second day of Rosh Hashanah Slichot – Service at 8 p.m. for a special outdoor Erev Rosh Hashanah – Service at 8 p.m. service at an Audu- Rosh Hashanah 1st Day – Service at 10:30 a.m. bon nature preserve in Family service at 9 a.m. Tashlich/Great Barrington Lenox. river walk at 4 p.m. Also new this year, Rosh Hashanah 2nd Day – Service at 10:30 a.m. Ne’ilah) at 3 p.m., followed by break-the-fast. Cantorial Soloist Dara Yom Kippur/Kol Nidre – Service at 8 p.m. Other events: Sukkot pizza party, Wed., Oct. 3 at Rosenblatt will join Yom Kippur – Service at 10:30 a.m. Family ser- 5:30 p.m. Simchat Torah celebration Sunday, Oct. Rabbi Breindel and the 4 at 6 p.m. temple choir to help vice at 9 a.m. Afternoon service (with Yizkor and lead the musical portions of the Reform service.

SERVICES Slichot – Contemplative service featuring stories, music, and guided Rimon Resource Center for Jewish Spirituality meditations at 7:30 p.m., followed by dessert reception. Erev Rosh Hashanah – Service at 7:30 p.m., followed by oneg. This year marks the first time Rimon will of storyteller Amber Chand’s Searching for the Rosh Hashanah 1st Day – Family services (pre-school/grade school) host High Holy Day services, which will be Moon:Tales of Love, Despair, Faith and Forgive- at 9 a.m. Congregational service at 10:30 a.m. held at The Guthrie Center, 2 Van Deusenville ness. Suggested donation $10-$20. Rosh Hashanah 2nd Day – Outdoor nature service, with special Road in Great Barrington. Rimon services, led Erev Rosh Hashanah – Service at 6 p.m. liturgy and readings, at Pleasant Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, 472 West by Rabba Kaya Stern Kaufman, promise to be Rosh Hashanah 1st Day – Service at 10 a.m., fol- Mountain Road, Lenox. contemplative, musical, accessible and inspira- lowed by potluck vegetarian lunch and tashlich. Yom Kippur/Kol Nidre – Service at 7:30 p.m. tional. All are welcome. (No service on Rosh Hashanah 2nd Day.) Yom Kippur – Service at 10:30 a.m. Study session at 1 p.m. After- Yom Kippur/Kol Nidre – noon service at 3 p.m. Yizkor/Ne’ilah at 5 p.m., followed by break- SERVICES Service at 6:30 p.m. the-fast (please RSVP). Slichot – At 8 p.m. at the Yom Kippur – Service at Other Events: Memorial Service of Faith, 10:30 a.m. at Pittsfield First Congregational Church 10 a.m. (break at 1 p.m.). Cemetery. of Stockbridge, 4 Main Afternoon services at 5 p.m. Street in Stockbridge, Ne’ilah at 6:30 p.m., followed Slichot services will be by a vegetarian potluck preceded by a performance break-the-fast (please RSVP).

Berkshire Minyan

High Holy Day services will be held at the Friends (Quaker) Meeting House, 280 State Road (Route 23), Great Barrington, a few hundred yards east of the Berkshire Minyan’s regular home at Hevreh of Southern Berkshire. Sukkot services will be held in the Hevreh library. The egalitarian Berkshire Minyan conducts traditional ser- vices with interactive discussions around personal themes, using the Conservative movement’s Lev Shalem machzor with the addi- tion of different readings and kavvanot.

SERVICES Erev Rosh Hashanah – Service at 6:30 p.m. Rosh Hashanah 1st Day & Rosh Hashanah 2nd Day – Services at 9:30 a.m. Yom Kippur/Kol Nidre – Service at 6:30 p.m. Yom Kippur – Service at 9:30 a.m. (break at approximately 1:30 p.m.) Afternoon service and Ne’ilah at 5 p.m. Sukkot Yom Tov, Day 1 – Service at 9:30 a.m. (No service on day 2). Shemini Atzeret/Simhat Torah (combined) – Monday, October 5, at 9:30 a.m. Page 22 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 23 l HIGH HOLY SERVICES AND CELEBRATIONS l Congregation Knesset Israel Congregation Ahavath Sholom

other, the prayers, the music, and the spiritual atmosphere of this awe-filled time. (See Barba- ra Cohen’s article on page 3 for High Holy Day insights.)

SERVICES Slichot – Service at 8 p.m. Erev Rosh Hashanah – Service at 7:30 p.m. Rosh Hashanah 1st Day – Service at 10 a.m., fol- lowed by tashlich. Childcare available 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The Jewish holiday season at Congregation Knesset Israel Rosh Hashanah 2nd Day – Same as Rosh Hashanah will be the last one with the sanctuary in its present configura- Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur services 1st Day, sans tashlich. No childcare. tion – renewal of the sanctuary will start after the Tishrei holiday take place at Berkshire South Community Center, Yom Kippur/Kol Nidre – Service at 7 p.m. season. Families and guests are welcomed at the tuneful, lay-led 15 Crissey Road, Great Barrington. services, with commentaries on significant Torah themes by High Holy Day worship with the Recon- Yom Kippur – Service at 10 a.m. Childcare avail- Rabbi David Weiner and members of this Conservative congrega- structionist Ahavath Sholom community is an able 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Ne’ilah at 5:30 p.m., fol- tion. inclusive experience, with members participat- lowed by break-the-fast. ing in myriad ways. Congregants deliver divrai Simchat Torah celebration on Erev Simchat Torah – Tuesday, Oct. 6 at 7 p.m., followed by dessert. SERVICES Torah, and help Spiritual Leader Barbara Co- hen create an atmosphere of intimacy with each Slichot – Minchah/study session at 7 p.m. Service at 8:15 p.m. Erev Rosh Hashanah – Service at 6:15 p.m. Rosh Hashanah 1st Day – Service at 8:15 a.m. Children’s program- ming 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tashlich at Pomeroy Ave. bridge at 5:45 p.m. Evening service at 7 p.m. Chabad of the Berkshires Rosh Hashanah 2nd Day – Same as Rosh Hashanah 1st Day, sans tashlich. Yom Kippur/Kol Nidre – Service at 6:30 p.m. Now in its 11th year, Chabad of the Berkshires welcomes all to its friendly traditional services at Yom Kippur – Service at 9 a.m. Children’s programming 9:30 a.m. to its Pittsfield location. Co-directors Rabbi Levi and 12:30 p.m. Afternoon service and Ne’ilah at 4:45 p.m. Sara Volovik say membership is not required – Erev Sukkot – Service at 6:15. “According to tradition, at the New Year the Doors Sukkot Yom Tov – Services both days at 9:30. of Heaven are open – G-d accepts all prayers, from Hoshanah Rabbah – Morning service at 8 a.m. Evening service anyone. We open our doors, as well.” 6:15 p.m. Shemini Atzeret – Service (with Yizkor) at 9:30 a.m. Simchat Torah SERVICES dinner at 5:30 p.m. (please RSVP), followed by celebration/dessert at Slichot – Service at 9:30 p.m. 6:30. Erev Rosh Hashanah – Service at 7 p.m., followed by Simchat Torah – Service at 9:30 a.m. traditional dinner (please RSVP by 9/9 – $36 adult/$12 under 12). Rosh Hashanah 1st Day – Service at 10 a.m. Children’s ser- Congregation Beth Israel vice 11 a.m. Kiddush following Barbara K. Greenfeld service. Tashlich at 1:30 p.m. abr, c-crec, crs, green, rsps, sres Broker Associate • Lic. in MA & NY Rosh Hashanah 2nd Day – Same Congregation Beth Israel’s services will be led by Rabbi as Rosh Hashanah 1st Day, sans 413-637-4200 ext. 16 Rachel Barenblat and visiting student-hazzan Randall Miller. 413-441-5986 cell tashlich. [email protected] This Reform congregation will use Days of Awe, the machzor Yom Kippur/Kol Nidre – Service put together by Rabbi Barenblat, co-chair of ALEPH: Alliance for at 7 p.m. oberts & ssociates ealty inc Jewish Renewal. Childcare will be available. R A R , . Yom Kippur – Service at 10 a.m. (Yizkor at 12:30 p.m.) Children’s EXCLUSIVE LISTINGS SERVICES service 11 a.m. Afternoon HOUSES Slichot – Service at 8 p.m., followed by pot luck dinner. service and Ne’ilah at 5:30 p.m., Erev Rosh Hashanah – Service at 7:30 p.m. followed by break-the-fast. 112 SPADINA PARKWAY, PITTSFIELD. Wow!! Erev Sukkot – Service at 6:30 What a spectacular property right in the heart of Rosh Hashanah 1st Day – Service at 9:30 a.m., children’s service at Pittsfield. A 10 room Georgian Colonial that has p.m., followed by free commu- 10 a.m. Tashlich follows service, with offsite lunch following (please such graciousness about it.. The grounds have RSVP). nity dinner at 7 (please RSVP) been lovingly cared for and include a private pool.. Rosh Hashanah 2nd Sukkot Yom Tov – Services both There is more than ample room for entertaining both inside and outside.. Close to the Pittsfield Day – Service at 9:30 days at 10 a.m. Hoshanah Rabbah, Country Club and a short ride to Berkshire a.m. Medical Center plus many other Berkshire attractions. $595,000. R2483 Yom Kippur/Kol Shemini Atzeret, & Simchat Torah – Please see the Chabad 157 MOUNTAIN DRIVE, PITTSFIELD A beautiful Nidre – Service at 6 split level home in Southeast Pittsfield..roomy and website for details. p.m., preceded by meticulously cared for.. bordering Sackett Brook.. musical service at green house attached to 3-car garage.. separate 5 p.m. shed that has electricity installed.. Wood burning and gas fireplaces.. 4 zoned heating.. radiant heat Yom Kippur – Service in large entry.. $375,000. R2512 at 9:30 a.m., chil- dren’s service at 10 5 EATON LANE, PITTSFIELD. Come on home... down the lane to this comfy and inviting 5 a.m. Yizkor follows bedroom, 4 bath colonial on 1.4 Acres.. Private morning service, with inground pool set in a serene setting of beautiful mussar study after. Afternoon service at 4 p.m. Ne’ilah at 6 p.m., landscaped property.. Will be great as a primary, followed by break-the-fast (please RSVP). second or retirement home.. Across from the Shmini Atzeret – Service (with Yizkor) at 10 a.m. Country Club of Pittsfield, restaurants, theatres and a short ride to Tanglewood, plus close to the Bousquet ski area.. Other events: Sukkot/Shabbat potluck, Friday, Oct. 2 at 5:30 p.m. R2544 $519,000. CONDOS

28 CHURCHILL CREST, PITTSFIELD End unit ranch w/ central A/C.. 2 bedrooms and 1 full bath on first floor level along with bright living room w/ stone fireplace and sliders to deck.. separate dining room.. eat-in kitchen.. Lower Level has 3/4 bath (shower stall).. large panelled family room.. laundry.. HW heater.. central vacuum system the carr difference and attached one car garage.. All electric heat with baseboards.. Association offers pool and tennis. C 2504 we service what we sell $174,500. we offer set-up and delivery ROLLING HILLS, LENOX we offer factory authorized UPPER 2-8 Great location.. short walk to clubhouse, the choice is easy... warranty and repair work mailroom, pool, exercise room, party room and kitchen.. trust the folks at carr! we have factory trained tennis courts nearby and walking trails also.. Kitchen technicians remodeled with KraftMaid cabinets and granite counter- www.carrhardware.com tops.. This unit has high ceilings and a beautiful view of Yokun Brook.. C2187 $169,000. Pittsfield North Adams Lee Gt. Barrington 547 North St. 179 State Rd. 57 Park St. 256 Main St. Wishing You All A Very Healthy And Happy New Year !! 413-443-5611 413-663-6600 413-243-2541 413-528-4520 Page 24 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 25

BERKSHIRE JEWISH CONGREGATIONS & ORGANIZATIONS

Berkshire Hills Hadassah Hevreh of Southern Berkshire BEYOND THE BERKSHIRES P.O. Box 187, Pittsfield, MA Reform Congregation Anshe Emeth (413) 443-4386, 270 State Rd., Great Barrington, MA Conservative [email protected] (413) 528-6378, hevreh.org 240 Joslen Blvd., Hudson, NY Services: Fridays 7:30 p.m., except B’nai B’rith Lodge, No. 326 (518) 828-6848, first Friday of month, 6 p.m., congregationansheemeth.net Chabad of the Berkshires Saturdays, Torah Study at 9 a.m., Welcome to the Services: Fridays at 7:30 p.m., 450 South St., Pittsfield, MA services at 10 a.m. Call to confirm. Jewish Berkshires Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. (413) 499-9899, Everyone is welcome to attend Israel Philatelist Society jewishberkshires.com Congregation Beth El services and events at any of the c/o Rabbi Harold Salzmann Check website for service times and 107 Adams St., Bennington, VT organizations listed here. 24 Ann Dr., Pittsfield, MA locations. (802) 442-9645, cbevermont.org (413) 442-4312 Services: Saturdays at 10 a.m. Please call the organizations Congregation Ahavath Sholom Jewish Federation of the Berkshires directly to confirm service times Reconstructionist Nassau Jewish Community 196 South St., Pittsfield, MA or to inquire about membership. North St., Great Barrington, MA Center & Synagogue (413) 442-4360 jewishberkshires.org (413) 528-4197, ahavathsholom.com Route 20, Box 670, Nassau, NY Learn more about our Jewish Services: Fridays at 5:45 p.m., Jewish War Veterans (518) 766-9831 community and find great Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. Commander Robert Waldheim nassausynagogue.org events on the community (413) 822-4546, [email protected] Services: Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. calendar at: Congregation Beth Israel Reform Rimon: Resource Center for Temple Israel of Catskill JEWISHBERKSHIRES.ORG 53 Lois St., North Adams, MA Jewish Spirituality Reform ______(413) 663-5830, cbiweb.org PO Box 502, Great Barrington, MA 220 Spring St., Catskill, NY Services: Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. (413) 274-1034, rimonberkshires.org (518) 943-5758, templeisraelofcatskill.org. Berkshire Minyan Congregation Knesset Israel Temple Anshe Amunim Lay-led egalitarian minyan Conservative Reform The Chatham Synagogue held at Hevreh of Southern 16 Colt Rd., Pittsfield, MA 26 Broad St., Pittsfield, MA Route 28, Box 51, Chatham, NY Berkshire, 270 State Rd., (413) 445-4872, knessetisrael.org (413) 442-5910, ansheamunim.org (518) 392-0701, Great Barrington, MA Services: Fridays at 5:45 p.m., Services: Fridays at 5:30 p.m., chathamsynagogue.org (413) 229-3618, berkshireminyan.org Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. Saturdays, Torah Study at 9:30 a.m., Services: Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. Services: Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. services at 10:45 a.m.

la dor va dor Experience personalized Jewish learning through art, story-telling, and Hebrew instruction at Congregation Beth Israel Pre-school through Bar and Bat Mitzvah

~ Weekly classes begin Monday September 21st ~ Monthly Pre-school Family classes begin Sunday October 18th

For more information and a registration packet: call 413/663-5830 or email [email protected] 53 Lois Street North Adams, MA 01247 www.cbiweb.org

Rachel Barenblat, Rabbi David Arfa, Education Director Member of the Union for Reform Judaism Page 24 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 25 Calendar – Ongoing Events Around the Community Continuous – Chabad of the Berkshires schedule. Information: Chaim Bronstein at Knesset Israel members; $10 for non-mem- Fridays, from 9:30 to 11 a.m. (2nd “Smile on Seniors,” or “S.O.S.,” volunteer (917) 609-6732. bers. Open to the public. Information: Jane and 4th Fridays through fall) – “Tal- program to serve senior citizens in the Rosen at (413) 464-0173 or janerosen@ mud Study for Everyone,” with Sid Freund. Sundays (second of each month) – Berkshires. Information for families who berkshire.rr.com. Read Talmud (Steinsaltz ed.) and engage Berkshire Hills Society of Israeli Philatelists can benefit and volunteers: Rabbi Levi in spirited debate on the merit of cases. meet. Discuss Israeli and American stamps. Wednesdays, from 10:30 to 11:30 Volovik at (413) 499-9899 or visit www. Knowledge of Hebrew is not a prerequisite. Coffee and donuts. Information: Ed Helitzer, a.m. – Hevreh of Southern Berkshire, jewishberkshires.com. “Don’t say, ‘When I’ll be free, I will study,’ (413) 447-7622, daytime. 270 State Road, Great Barrington, offers lest you never be free.” (Pirkei Avot 2:4.) New England Holocaust Institute & “an hour of morning stillness” with Nina Sundays, 10:15 a.m. (every six Hevreh of Southern Berkshire, 270 State Museum – Artifacts from the collection of Lipkowitz, a certified Kripalu Yoga Teacher. weeks) – Congregation Ahavath Sholom Road, Great Barrington. Information: (413) founder Darrell English are now on view Donation of $10 is asked for from non-mem- Book Club. Contact Walter Orenstein: 528-3280 or [email protected]. at the Adams Free Library, 92 Park Street, bers. Information: (413) 528-6378. [email protected] for titles, dates, Adams, telephone (413) 743-8345. Mr. Fridays, usually first of each month and location. Wednesdays at 12:30 p.m. – Explore English remains available to bring selections at 5:30 p.m. (followed by a family the stories behind the story of the weekly from his collection of Holocaust artifacts to Sundays, 10:30 a.m. (every seven style Shabbat dinner at 6:15 p.m.) Torah portion at Tea and Torah, at Chabad presentations for organizations, schools, weeks) – Congregation Ahavath Sholom’s – Congregation Knesset Israel, 16 Colt of the Berkshires, 450 South Street, Pitts- and private functions. To schedule offsite “Bagels and Brainstorms.” Contact Guy Road, Pittsfield. Shirei Shabbat (“Songs of field MA. Led by Sara Volovik, the course presentations, call Ed Udel at (413) 446- Pancer, [email protected] or (860) Shabbat”). Unique service combines mel- is intended to outline a spiritual road map 8409. 435-2821 for topic and location. odies from Carlebach, Debbie Friedman, for day to day life. Using the weekly Torah and Camp Ramah to create a ruach filled Monthly – Ruthie’s Lunch Bunch meets portion as a starting point, participants will Tuesdays, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. – (“spirited”) family friendly experience. Cost at Congregation Beth Israel, or a local learn from the Talmud, Midrash, and Cha- Torah Portion of the Week study group at $18 per adult, $36 family maximum. Din- restaurant. Call for details. Congregation sidic masters, as well as from the insights Congregation Knesset Israel, 16 Colt Road, ner reservations are due by the Monday Beth Israel, 53 Lois Street, North Adams. of others in the class. The course is free Pittsfield. Facilitator Myrna Hammerling before services. Full information: (413) Information: (413) 663-5830. of charge, and no prior background in guides the group through the triennial 445-4872, ext 11. cycle, year-round in the K.I. Library. New- Hebrew or the subject matter is necessary. Monthly – Volunteers from various con- comers always welcome to this gathering Saturdays from 9-10 a.m., (when gregations, provide a Jewish service, social Wednesdays at 6:15 p.m. beginning of students of diverse ages, backgrounds, Congregation Knesset Israel’s He- interaction, and entertainment to residents October 7 – “Conversational Hebrew”. and perspectives who search together to brew school classes are in session) at Great Barrington’s Fairview Commons Practice speaking Hebrew with native Is- deepen understanding of our foundational – Facilitator Judith Weiner guides a journey and the Great Barrington Nursing and raeli Esther Benari-Altmann, Temple Anshe text. Free. Information: (413) 445-4872, though Jewish texts on justice. All texts will Rehabilitation Center. Information: Don Amunim, 26 Broad Street, Pittsfield. Open ext. 16. be presented in English translation. Fall: Victor at (413) 528-3742. to the community at large. Information a survey of the development of Jewish Tuesdays at 1 p.m. beginning Octo- and registration: (413) 442-5910 ext. 12 Monthly, fourth or fifth Sunday – language for believing in, speaking about ber 13 – “Beginner Hebrew”. Learn to or [email protected]. Volunteers from Congregation Beth Israel, and working for justice. Winter: Mapping speak Hebrew from a native Israeli with 53 Lois Street, North Adams “Take and Eat” Thursdays, from 10:45 a.m. to 12 Jewish language onto contemporary Esther Benari-Altmann at Temple Anshe program cook, package, and deliver hot p.m. – The Book of Kings, with Rabbi Da- American politics. Spring: Focus on issues. Amunim, 26 Broad Street, Pittsfield. Open meals for all North Adams clients of “Meals vid Weiner. This class explores this literary In the KI Library, 16 Colt Road, Pittsfield. to the community at large. Registration, full on Wheels.” Information: (413) 663-5830 chronicle of the history, ideas and per- information: (413) 442-5910, extension 12, Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. – “Torah Plus: or [email protected]. sonalities of Ancient Israel. Wide-ranging or [email protected]. Exploring Jewish Text and Culture.” Join discussions explore themes that arise from Monthly – One Monday a month (date Rabbi Josh Breindel for a conversation Wednesdays, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. the text and our encounter with it. Please varies according to length of book), the based on the texts of the Jewish people and – optional meditation 11:30 a.m. to noon bring your own copy of Tanakh to the KI CBI Book Discussion Group meets at reflection on what it means to be Jewish. All – “Yoga @ KI” with instructor Jane Rosen Library. Information and Schedule: (413) Congregation Beth Israel at 7 a.m. Check texts are offered in English. Temple Anshe at Congregation Knesset Israel social hall, 445-4872. the CBI Newsletter for current books and Amunim, 26 Broad Street, Pittsfield. Free. 16 Colt Road, Pittsfield. $5 per class for Thursdays (fourth of each month) – Open to the public. Information (413) 442- Hadassah Book Club. For times, locations 5910 or [email protected]. of meetings, and further information about Saturday afternoons/evenings in Sep- the books: Jane Rosen at (413) 464-0173 tember (time varies with sundown) or [email protected]. at Congregation Knesset Israel – “Di- Thursdays at 6:15 p.m. beginning mensions of Loss and Healing,” with Rabbi October 8 – “Intermediate Hebrew,” with David Weiner. Discussion group covers Esther Benari-Altmann. Teens and adults topics such as: Why does evil exist? How join together for lively study of Modern do we live in faith, even though…? How Hebrew with an expert instructor. Temple do we heal from loss? Discussions will stem Anshe Amunim, 26 Broad Street, Pittsfield. from readings of a passage from the ancient Open to the community at large. Informa- midrash, Lamentations Rabbah, c. 400CE. tion and registration: (413) 442-5910 ext. Check exact times with KI office, (413) 445- 12 or [email protected]. 4872 ext. 10 or www.knessetisrael.org. Fridays, last of month, time varies with candle lighting – Chabad of the Berkshires’ “Friday Night Live,” traditional Congregation Knesset Israel Kabbalat Shabbat service. Information: 16 Colt Road, Pittsfield (413) 499-9899 or visit www.jewishberk- shires.com. ONGOING MINYANS Sunday...... 8:45 a.m. and 7 p.m. Fridays, at 9 a.m. – Meditation with Tuesday...... 7 p.m. Rabbi Rachel Barenblat in the Congregation Friday...... 7 a.m. and 5:45 p.m. Beth Israel sanctuary, 53 Lois Street, North Saturday, 9:30 a.m. and evenings approxi- Adams, overlooking the Berkshire moun- mately 30 minutes before sunset tains. Silence, chanting, and meditation designed to help prepare for Shabbat. All CANDLE-LIGHTING welcomed. Information: (413) 663-5830 September 4...... 7:03 and www.cbiweb.org. September 11...... 6:51 September 18...... 6:39 September 25...... 6:26 October 2...... 6:14 This is going to be great. October 9...... 6:02

You know it. See “Berkshire Jewish Congregations and Organizations” on page 24 for information on all regularly scheduled services We know it too. in the area. Contact a congrega- tion directly if you wish to arrange Worry-Free an unscheduled minyan. You are why we get up in the morning. Pet Solutions We can’t wait to see what great looks like today. Show us.

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B4Pets_3_5x2_5_FEB2014_OtisGaz.indd 1 2/10/2014 12:08:01 PM Page 26 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 27 WORLD NEWS ‘Miracle’ Babies Born in Israel to Identical Twin Parents

The Cohen brothers with the Cohen cousins

JERUSALEM (JTA) — The Breslov room to see the wonders never before Spring Specials Hasidic community in Israel is calling witnessed in the world,” Kikar HaSh- the birth of two baby girls 20 minutes abbat reported. apart a miracle. The brothers, Niv and Ran Cohen, The girls born in July in Netanya became religious about two years ago $15 Off any facial or 20% Off Free Any service for new are the daughters of two couples – under the tutelage of the Breslov com- massage (complimentary eyebrow or lip wax sauna session). customers. identical twin brothers born 20 min- munity’s rabbi, Eliezer Shlomo Schick, Cannot be combined with with any facial. Limit 1 per customer. Limit 1 per customer. utes apart and married to identical who died recently. Schick introduced Cannot be combined with any other offer. Not valid toward the purchase of Cannot be combined with twin sisters born 20 minutes apart. them to their wives, Leah and Rebec- any other offer. any other offer. a gift certificate. The births at the Laniado Hospital ca, and the couples were married last Expires 10/15/15 Expires 10/15/15 Expires 10/15/15 were first reported by the haredi Or- year, four days apart. They live in the thodox website Kikar HaShabbat. Breslov community in Yavneel, south Voted The Berkshires Best Spa! Hospital staff “came to the delivery of Tiberias.

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Not NCUA Insured Not Credit Union Guaranteed May Lose Value Page 26 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 27 MAZEL TOV WORLD NEWS Mazel tov to Nancy Stoll of Berkshire United Way on being promoted to the position of vice president of Community Impact. Chickens Were First Commercialized in ~ Mazel tov to Robyn Rosen on being recognized as Temple Anshe Ancient Israel, Researchers Say Amunim’s Member of the Year. ~ Mazel tov to both Temple Anshe Amunim and Hevreh of Southern Berkshire, who were honored at Eisner and Crane Lake Camp’s 6th annual stakeholder assembly for both sending 10 or more campers.

Daryl Messinger, Union for Reform Judaism’s Chair-Elect; Debby Shriber, Crane Lake Camp Director; Nancy Gagnon, TAA co-President; Rabbi Josh Breindel; Rachel Alemany, TAA co-

President; Louis Bordman, Eisner Camp Director. C K VIA WIKIPEDIA COMMONS PHOTO: SUBRAMANYA The red jungle fowl

(JNS.org) Chickens were first the red jungle fowl from Asia unearthed large quantities commercialized in southern at least 7,400 years ago and of chicken bones near the Israel during the Hellenistic were brought to the Middle Judean town of Lakhish. Along period around 2,300 years East around 5,000 years ago, with signs of fire and slaugh- ago, according a study pub- although they were considered ter, the bones indicate that the lished by researchers from the exotic and primarily used for chickens were also eaten at University of Haifa. worship and cockfights. the site. “Chicken remains found According to the university, “The large quantity of bones from the Hellenistic period “Globalization that charac- reinforces the assumption that (4th century BCE) in the Ju- terized the Hellenistic regime some of the major industries dean lowlands shed light on in our region, compounded used the chickens for export,” the beginnings of this eco- with developments in interna- the researchers said. Re- nomic revolution, and show tional science and commerce, searchers also found evidence the earliest evidence of the created the right conditions that female chickens were western world’s large-scale for change in the status of the raised to produce mass quan- industrial poultry,” the univer- rooster to generate income, tities of eggs. Similar chicken sity said, the Jerusalem Post and serve as food.” facilities did not reach Europe Daryl Messinger, Union for Reform Judaism’s Chair-Elect; Debby reported. Researchers professors for another two centuries. Shriber, Crane Lake Camp Director; Shelly Rolf; Suzanne Sawyer, The domesticated chicken Ayelet Gilboa and Guy Bar- President of Hevreh; Louis Bordman, Eisner Camp Director. is descended primarily from Oz of the University of Haifa

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are co-directed by Shua Kisile- metrically around it, Magness New Mosaics Discovered in Synagogue vitz of the Israel Antiquities Au- said. These include winged putti thority. The mosaics were first (cupids) holding roundels (cir- Excavations in Galilee discovered at the site during a cular discs) with theater masks, 2012 excavation. muscular male figures wearing GALILEE – This summer, exca- A mosaic discovered in the trousers who support a garland, vations directed by UNC-Chap- synagogue’s east aisle in 2013 a rooster, and male and female el Hill College of Arts and and 2014 depicts three horizon- faces in a wreath encircling the Sciences professor Jodi Mag- tal registers (strips) containing inscription. Putti and masks are ness revealed stunning new human and animal figures, associated with Dionysus (Bac- mosaics that decorated the including elephants. The top chus), who was the Greco-Ro- floor of the Late Roman (fifth register, which is the largest, man god of wine and theater century) synagogue in the an- shows a meeting between two performances, she said. cient Jewish village of Huqoq. men, who perhaps are intend- In 2012, a mosaic show- “The images in these mosaics ed to represent Alexander the ing Samson and the foxes, as — as well as their high level Great and a Jewish high priest related in the Bible’s Judges of artistic quality — and the according to Magness’s findings. 15:4, was first discovered in columns painted with vegetal It was the first time a non-bibli- the synagogue’s east aisle. The motifs have never been found cal story had been found deco- next summer, a second mosaic in any other ancient syna- rating any ancient synagogue. was found that shows Samson gogue,” Magness said. “These During this summer’s dig, carrying the gate of Gaza on his are unique discoveries.” Magness and her colleagues shoulders, from Judges 16:3. The Huqoq excavations, lo- uncovered additional portions “It is not clear if there is a cated in Israel’s Lower Galilee,

PHOTO: JIM HABERMAN of this mosaic, as well as the thematic connection between rest of a mosaic immediately the Samson scenes and the adjacent to it, which is connect- other mosaics in the east aisle,” 2nd Annual ed with a Hebrew dedicatory Magness added. inscription that was uncovered The mosaics have been re- in 2012. moved from the site for conser- New digging reveals that the vation, and the excavated areas inscription is in the center of a have been backfilled. Excava- large square panel with human tions are scheduled to continue figures, animals and mytholog- in summer 2016. ical creatures arranged sym- Biblical Snail that Makes Tekhelet Sunday, Oct. 18, 1:30 pm Color is Becoming Extinct in Israel, at Hevreh of Southern Berkshire Government Reports

(Tekhelet Foundation) The band- level,” he said. An afternoon of inspiring presentations by ed dye-murex (Hexaplex trunculus) “We are looking for partners with Berkshire movers and shakers carnivorous sea-snail, indigenous to vision, for whom the Jewish tradition, the coasts of the Mediterranean and religion and keeping mitzvot (Jewish Black Seas, may be becoming extinct, commandments) are close to their Ty Allan Jackson Nancy Thomas reports the Government of Israel. This hearts,” Ziderman continued. The goal Founder and Publisher, Co-Founder and Proprietor, snail has historical and Jewish Big Head Books Mezze Restaurant Group legal importance as it was used to produce the tekhelet color Sara Katzoff Eleanore Velez from which the tzitzit cords Founder, Co-Artistic Coordinator, Multicultural (fringes, the petil tekhelet in the Director, Berkshire Fringe Center at BCC blessings of the Shema), parts of the Tabernacle, the Temple, Howard Levin, M.D. Simon Winchester and the High Priest’s clothing Chief Medical Officer New York Times bestselling were dyed in ancient times. In of LympheDIVAS author and journalist addition, the snail is considered food in many countries. The trunculus-tekhelet dye color has become available in $15 (online registration closes at noon, Oct. 16) recent years, due to pioneer $18 at door (check or cash) researches conducted by Dr. Israel Ziderman, but it is not manufactured in sufficient 270 State Rd., Great Barrington, MA quantities for universal use. Dr. (413) 528-6378 Ziderman, founder and chairman of is to raise $100,000 to support the Hevreh.org/BerkshireSPEAKS the Tekhelet Foundation (http://www. R&D project and then breed the snails, tekheletfoundation.com), is calling for create the dye and market the tekhelet a breeding campaign to grow the snails products. Major Sponsors locally in Israel. “While the truncu- Dr. Ziderman, since 1984, a world- lus-tekhelet is available in other coun- wide authority in the study of tekhelet, Carlson Propane tries, this would mark the first time in has initiated the current project to McTeigue & McClelland Israel that the color would be grown revive this special tradition amongst all and produced in a mass production communities of the Jewish People.

CONTACT STEVE ERENBURG FOR ALL YOUR REAL ESTATE NEEDS IN THE BERKSHIRES... m: 201 663 0800

47 CHURCH STREET LENOX, MA 413 637 1086 www.cohenwhiteassoc.com Page 28 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 29 CULTURE AND ARTS Book Review: Pepper, Silk, & Ivory, The Story of Jews in the Far East by Sigmund Tobias

Pepper, Silk, & Ivory is man fluent in ten languages, er, as a righteous gentile in composed of many fascinating attended Columbia University Yad Vashem. The Amshinover stories involving Jews in Asia Law School and passed the Rebbe, Rabbi Shimon Shalom that Rabbi Marvin Tokay- bar exam. In the 1930s, as Kalish, exercised leadership er collected during his long now, baseball players went in getting many of the peo- tenure as a rabbi in Japan. to Japan to play in exhibi- ple connected to the Yeshiva Readers should know that tions and Moe did that several safely to Shanghai. The Rebbe Rabbi Tokayer and I have times, and learned to speak demonstrated how quickly he corresponded, met for lunch and read Japanese. On one of thought on his feet when he once, and consider each other these occasions he made his was asked by Japanese mili- friends. Some readers may way up to the top floor of the tary officials why the Germans also remember Rabbi Tokayer St. Luke’s hospital, one of the hated Jews so much. It is from his lively presentation at higher buildings in pre-war because “We are Asians,” the Congregation Knesset Israel a Tokyo, dressed in Japanese Rebbe responded and indicat- few summers ago. clothes and took a pictures ed that the Japanese, as fellow It is a special pleasure to of the city with a tiny camera Asians, were surely on the review this book because a that were later used in the first Germans’ list for eventual ex- good part of it deals with the U.S. air raid. He was selected termination. I remember him Jews in Shanghai, where my to make a speech to the Japa- as a gentle and kindly man parents and I also found safe nese people warning them that Rabbi Marvin Tokayer when we sought his blessing haven from the Holocaust. De- they were misled and would intellectuals who were in and synagogue in Cochin, India, about a health issue while we spite that, I learned a lot from lose the war. Later, he was out of Mao Ze Dong’s circle and congratulated the Jewish were all living in Shanghai. the book about people in the asked to attend a talk by the over the years. Readers are community with the words In summary, this is a Shanghai refugee community, German Nobel Prize winning also introduced to Sidney Rit- “mazel tov.” David Marshall, most interesting book about a and about a vibrant Jewish physicist Werner Heisenberg to tenberg, Yakob Rosenfield, and former President of the Jewish group of fascinating Jews who community that existed in Kai determine Germany’s progress Israel Epstein, a trio of Jewish community, became first min- had a significant impact on Feng, China 300 years ago, towards building an Atomic men who had great influence ister (equivalent to first Prime developments in the Far East. and about many other com- bomb. If Moe determined that in Communist China. Minister) of Singapore. Even well-read individuals, or munities and people that were the Germans were close to de- Many other captivating The book also tells how the others who have lived in the completely unfamiliar to me. veloping the bomb (they were stories appear in the volume. Mirrer Yeshiva made its way region, are unlikely to have The first story in the book, not) he was instructed to kill For example, music lovers to Shanghai, where I studied heard about most of the inter- titled “Two Gun Cohen: A Heisenberg and then commit who are familiar with Joseph with them from 1942 to 1947. esting people described in the Jewish General in the Chinese suicide (fortunately, he did not Rosenstock from the New York Chiune Sugihara, Japanese book. You will enjoy taking the Army” is typical of the book. It have to) with a poison pill so City Opera may not know that consul in Kovno (now Kaunus) time to be introduced to them deals with the interesting story that he could not be interro- he got his start in Japan and issued transit visas permitting in this volume. of Morris Abraham Cohen, gated. Quite a story for a nice continued to work in both them to stop in Japan – sup- aka Two Gun Cohen, who was Jewish boy from the Lower New York and Japan until posedly on their way to Cura- Dr. Tobias is Eminent Research a rough and ready person, East Side. his death. Garcia d’Orta, a cao. Sugihara knew that they Professor, Division of Edu- educated in a Jewish reform The book describes many Jewish physician, botanist would never make it to Cura- cational Psychology & Meth- school in England. He was other remarkable stories and pharmacologist, settled in cao but helped to get them out odology, at the University at send to Canada by his family about Jews in Asia. The Shell Goa, India, in the early 1500s. of Europe safely; he was justly Albany (SUNY). He lives in the where he befriended many Oil Company was founded In 1968, Prime Minister Indira recognized as a rescuer of Berkshires and is a member of Chinese and, in an astounding by Marcus Samuel who also Gandhi held a speech on Jews and is enshrined, with a Congregation Knesset Israel. story, went on the become the originated the classic Shell the 400th anniversary of the little assist from Rabbi Tokay- body guard of Dr. Sun Yat- icon. Beate Sirota, who spoke sen, the founder of modern six languages including Japa- China. Later, he became an nese, ended up working in the advisor to Chiang Kai-shek, American Occupation forces China’s President after World and was influential in getting War II before the Communist a clause into Japan’s new con- takeover. Surprisingly enough, stitution guaranteeing equal subsequently he was also hon- rights to women and other ored by Zhou Enlai, Premier formerly oppressed individu- Sun., Sept. 13 Erev Rosh Hashanah 7:30 p.m. of Communist China. To be als. Jacob Schiff an American WELCOME honored by opposing sides in banker, whose family suffered Mon., Sept. 14 Rosh Hashanah 10:00 a.m. China’s long civil war is very in Russian pogroms against followed by Tashlich unusual. Jews, underwrote loans to Tues., Sept. 15 Rosh Hashanah 10:00 a.m. In another story, we learn Japan enabling them to beat about Moe Berg, baseball Russia in their war in the catcher and spy. Moe played first decade of the twentieth professional baseball for five century. We also meet Laura major league teams, includ- Margolis, an American social ing the Brooklyn Dodgers and worker, who was very help- Boston Red Sox. He was de- ful to the Jewish community NEW YEAR scribed as a slow runner and in Shanghai. The exploits of poor hitter who, nevertheless, Emily Hahn, a flamboyant delivered in the clutch and woman who wrote for the New had a lifetime batting average Yorker, are described. So are a of .243. He was a brilliant number of Jewish doctors and NEW YOU Tues., Sept. 22 Erev Yom Kippur / Kol Nidre Doors open at 7:00 p.m. Doors will be closed during chanting of Kol Nidre at 7:30 p.m. Wed., Sept. 23 Yom Kippur, 10:00 a.m., including Yizkor Hadassah Neilah, 5:30 p.m., followed by Break Fast wishes you a THE HIGH HOLY DAYS AT CAS 5776 are a chance for self-examination, meditation bursting with and spiritual renewal. Poetry mixed with prayer. sweetness. Thoughtful essays, interpretations and shared wisdom. All in a welcoming environment. Services are held at Berkshire South, Crissey Rd., GB See our website for reservation information. Northeast Reconstructionist CONGREGATION AHAVATH SHOLOM BOSTON | NORTHERN NEW ENGLAND | SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND | UPPER MID-ATLANTIC 1320 Centre St. #205, Newton Centre, MA 02459 | 781.455.9055 | [email protected] The creative spirit dwells here HADASSAH THE WOMEN’S ZIONIST ORGANIZATION OF AMERICA, INC. ahavathsholom.com North St., Great Barrington ©2015 HADASSAH, THE WOMEN'S ZIONIST ORGANIZATION OF AMERICA, INC. HADASSAH IS A REGISTERED TRADEMARK OF HADASSAH, THE WOMEN'S ZIONIST ORGANIZATION OF AMERICA, INC. 413-528-4197 [email protected]

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The

7 [email protected] Page 30 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 31 PEOPLE OF THE COMIC BOOK Comics Art Museum Founder Lawrence Klein Shares His Enthusiasms Locally & Globally

By Albert Stern For generations of Amer- ican males, a rite of passage was coming home from college on winter break to find that Mom had thrown out all your comic books. This may have occasioned some foot stomp- ing at the time – and perhaps some more years later, after you notice that a Silver Surfer #1 like the one Mom tossed just sold for $1,700 on ebay – but by and large, it was the Attorney Larry Kleen defending Doubleup kind of loss to which one could ARTWORK PROVIDED COURTESY OF JOE STATON AND TRIBUNE MEDIA SERVICES, INC. resign oneself. It was kid stuff, after all. tion and compensation for his “also enjoyed the hunt.” Back which development organiza- Portugal and Lodz, Poland in Starting in the 1980s, how- work. then, he says, collecting was tions were open to new ideas which work by established US ever, the entire world of comic What’s more, Klein earned “not yet a business business,” about how to revitalize the artists appear alongside newly books changed. Stories and comic strip apotheosis of his and so he and his father were city. Key to the museum’s ac- commissioned drawings by themes designed to appeal to own after a friend who puts able to obtain original work ceptance was Klein’s creation international illustrators. Last adults started to appear. The out the Dick Tracy comic strip and, more crucially for Klein’s of the MoCCA Art Festival in August, he replicated this ap- value of the books and orig- used him as model for the re- future endeavors, develop Soho, which was immediately proach at Pittsfield’s Lichten- inal drawings as collectibles curring character Larry Kleen, personal relationships with embraced by both fans and stein Center in collaboration started to climb dramatically, a ruthless high-priced criminal some of the top illustrators cartoonists who recognized with the Berkshire Art Asso- as did consciousness of comic attorney who has lawyered and writers. Klein’s passion and serious- ciation on Comic and Cartoon book art as a popular aesthet- for such lowlifes as B-B Eyes, When Klein was 15, he ness. Klein befriended the Art Presents: Re-imagined! An ic worthy of serious study. Mumbles, Doubleup, and Ab- wrote the first fan letter biggest names in cartooning, International Show of Comic By the 1990s, comic books ner Kadaver. received by the creators of entered a new financial strato- Klein, who today travels the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, sphere as Hollywood began world as director of leader- Kevin Eastman and North Ad- producing blockbuster movies ship development and general ams native Peter Laird. They featuring the iconic characters counsel for The Darrow School published the letter in the whose adventures had first ap- in New Lebanon, says that as Turtles’ third issue, marking peared in lowly 12 cent titles a youngster in the late 70s, he the start of a close friendship. aimed at children. particularly enjoyed Saturday Klein recalls that less merce- As a lifelong comic book morning cartoons and Star nary time when artists readily aficionado and masterful Wars. However, “in terms of corresponded with their fans (if unassuming) networker, comic books,” he says, “it and shared signed memora- Pittsfield’s Lawrence Klein was She-Hulk #1 that turned bilia. “Today the difference has been the right person in things around for me” (an is that when an artist does the right places at the right admission that this writer, at something like that, they’ll see times as the comics industry least, finds poignant). whatever it is they sent to a morphed from a geeky sub- “I eventually crossed a line fan for sale on ebay the next culture to a worldwide enter- and didn’t realize it,” Klein day,” Klein laments. Eventu- tainment juggernaut. As an remembers. “I wanted to read ally, this avaricious undercur- obsessive young collector, he about what these characters rent turned Klein off, as did was befriended by giants of the did before the stories I was the comics that were being comic book world who appreci- reading.” At the time, earlier published in the early 1990s. ated his tact and enthusiasm. works was not being repub- By the time he graduated from After law school, he founded lished, and so Klein started law school, he had given up the first museum dedicated scavenging for back issues at collecting. to comic book art in New York flea markets and garage sales. At the same time, the newly City, and later used his legal What he remembers most minted attorney felt the strong training to ensure that the fondly about that time was desire to change the world. disabled creator of a key char- the way his father William, a “But I didn’t know what to acter in a megahit superhero noted dermatologist and now a do,” Klein admits. He found Salad days: Klein (far right) with the Teenage Mutant Ninja film got appropriate recogni- Berkshire second home owner, his path after meeting his Turtles brain trust (from left: Peter Laird [co-creator], Steve Lavigne wife Sarah, a teacher. “I saw [illustrator], Michael Dooney (illustrator, sitting), and Kevin young teachers like her leaving Eastman [co-creator]) school, saddled with debt,” Klein says, “but still spending including Jules Feiffer, Art and Cartoon Art. their own money on supplies Spiegelman, Francoise Mouly, A community outreach because art and music bud- Joe Smith, Ted Rall and Roz component of the shows is in gets had been slashed. I won- Chast among countless others, keeping with Klein’s original dered how I could give back?” all of whom supported the ambition to give back through He decided that a not-for-prof- museum. comics, and he has also given it museum dedicated to the art Klein and his wife left New back to the world of comics. form he loved was the way to York City (and leadership of One of his proudest accom- create something positive. the museum) in 2006, seek- plishments is his work on He established the Museum ing a healthier lifestyle in the behalf of Bill Mantlo, a writer of Comic and Cartoon Art in Berkshires. He stayed active in and lawyer who created Rocket downtown Manhattan not long the comic book world, how- Raccoon for Marvel Comics after the 9/11 attack in 2001, ever, bringing unusual comic in the 1970s, later a princi- a turbulent time yet one in themed shows to Pittsfield and pal character in the hugely appearing on a locally pro- successful 2014 film Guard- duced television show called ians of the Galaxy. In 1992, “Geeks With Issues.” Between however, Mantlo was struck by 2008 and 2011, he curated a car while rollerblading, and several shows in downtown has been unable to live inde- Pittsfield, among them an pendently since. Working pro exhibit featuring the work of bono, Klein secured Mantlo a Joe Staton, who has worked just share of the profits and a on Superman, Scooby-Doo, film credit. and Dick Tracy. Staton would In the New York Times Linking Young Jewish eventually transform his friend story about the settlement, Women in Their Fight into “Larry Kleen,” a criminal Mantlo’s brother Michael relat- lawyer who, unlike Klein, is a ed, without naming Klein: “My Against Breast Cancer germophobe who works for the attorney is very good. I’m not Apparatus, a global criminal going to say Marvel came to organization. me and opened up their hearts (866) 474-2774 In the past two years years, and their purse strings.” Klein has gone global, curat- Larry Kleen couldn’t have www.sharsheret.org ing original shows in Lisbon, done it better. Page 30 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 31 PEOPLE OF THE COMIC BOOK Seriously Funny: Roz Chast’s “Cartoon Memoirs” at the Norman Rockwell Museum By Albert Stern Roz Chast admits that these works that best illumi- parents that choked the part of her shtick in creating nate her imaginative depth as closets, cabinets, medicine cartoons is to rely on exagger- a visual artist. In the cartoons, chest, and refrigerator of ation, to take ordinary quirks the drawings generally serve their modest apartment. of behavior or thought and the joke, while in the memoir “I left thousands of books ramp up their absurdity a few the art serves the narrative; in and records and manual notches for comic effect. Like the children’s books, howev- typewriters and appli- the great cartoonists who pre- er, the images have a more ances and grimy liqueur ceded her at The New Yorker self-contained quality and glasses that were probably and in whose ranks she can be possess a charm uniquely last used in 1963,” Chast counted, Chast is a master of their own. writes in a meditation on the one-panel sight gag. Con- The life of a cartoonist, what to keep and what sider, for example, the image even one at the pinnacle of to throw away. Though drawn in her characteristically the profession, is not an easy stuff central is central skittering style of beachgoers one, according to Chast, who in her cartooning, work- snapping cellphone photos of says that her hit-to-miss ratio ing with similar material the Botticellian Venus emerg- of cartoon ideas that make it autobiographically was “a ing from the surf – you’ve seen into The New Yorker would little strange,” she admits. it on billboards throughout strike those not in the busi- “With the cartoons, there’s the Berkshires this summer ness as painfully low. “If I turn always this deniability, advertising the retrospective in 21 they might take two,” you know, where people of her work now on view at the she says, “and I probably do say: ‘Is this about you?’ ‘Is Norman Rockwell Museum in better than a lot of people.” this about your parents?’ Stockbridge. There are approximately 40 And it’s, like, no, no, no. Perhaps more representa- staff cartoonists all working for It’s lens, lens, lens. And tive of Chast’s work, however, the magazine for the limited that’s true. It’s rare that are her more verbal cartoons, slots available – while once something [in a cartoon] is those that compress the roiling many periodicals published really super-direct.” and thematically oceanic inner cartoons, today the roster of Consequently, Chast chatter of the neurotic mind those that do is much attenu- says she needed some dis- into tidy one-panel packages ated, and so artists don’t have tance between the events of angst. A perfect example on secondary markets for their she portrays and creating view at the Rockwell is “The work if The New Yorker says the memoir. She says the ROZ CHAST, continued on page 28 Party, After You Left,” in which no. In the heyday of cartoon- book’s form developed or- the guests who remain express ing, Chast explained, cartoon- ganically. “My mother died A self-portrait by Roz Chast with cartoon art enthusiast Lawrence relief at your departure just ists could start by trying to sell in 2009 and father died in Klein (see story on page 30). as remarkable things start to to The New Yorker, and work 2007 and the book came occur, including Jesus and the their way down the rejection out in 2014,” she says. “I knew Chast. She contrasts the way the Baby Boom generation. Buddha arriving together to ladder until they reached Gent well before that that I want- the story plays out in Ameri- “There are so many of us,” join the fun. Magazine at rock bottom. ed to put it some book form, can families to the experience she says, “and that definitely Because Chast is so ac- Chast shared the advice but didn’t know what it was of some Filipino friends where raises some questions for us complished as a miniaturist, she gives to aspiring cartoon- going to be, or how it would the expectation was that the at this age as we go through her 2014 book-length memoir ists: “If you have anything else fall together. The advantage of elders will be cared for by the it” – taking care of aging and Can’t We Talk About Something you can do, or that you like to this kind of story is that it had younger generations, all of dying parents in a culture not More Pleasant? was a revela- do, you should do that.” a beginning, it had a middle, whom lived close by. American really set up for that to hap- tion. An unflinching chronicle If exaggeration is central and it had an end.” society is not set up that way pen easily. of her aged parents’ long de- to her shtick as a cartoonist, The end of the story for – the idea is that once chil- With a wry and somewhat cline and eventual demise, the so too is her fascination with people caring for their aging dren reach a certain age, the unhappy smile, she adds: “We book has emerged as a touch- stuff – the detritus of life that fathers and mothers is inev- expectation is that they’ll leave know that we’re next.” stone for people who recognize people accumulate and the itable – the parents will die, the house and make their own their own family challenges in identity it gains by being col- life will go on, and those who lives, which Chast found true “Roz Chast: Cartoon Memoirs” the Chasts’ story. While the lected, displayed, and juxta- remain will labor to make in her experience as both a will be on view through October memoir’s themes of aging and posed with other stuff. “I like sense of the experience. Chast daughter and a mother. 26 at the Norman Rockwell generational responsibility are interiors, and I like stuff – it’s says that since the publica- In particular, that dynamic Museum, 9 Glendale Road in universal, the milieu in which just fun to draw,” says Chast. tion of her memoir, she has worries her as a member of Stockbridge. the story unfolds is uniquely “I’m not really interested in been asked Jewish – specifically the petit drawing landscapes – I wish I to speak to bourgeoisie Jewish world of were. I once had to illustrate a groups and grimmest Brooklyn, within a children’s book that took place organizations new member special! claustrophobic family setting in the woods. Alright, what’s dealing with marked by eccentric behav- in those woods? I know there’s elder care One Year iors refined and entrenched trees and leaves on the ground and end of life OLLI Membership over decades. Chast, an only probably. There are some issues. “It’s child who (like so many Jewish logs laying on the ground in fine so long + high achievers, miraculous- a loggish kind of way. Maybe as people un- One FREE Class ly) emerged from this kind there’s some mud or some- derstand that for $50 ($95 value) of stultifying environment to thing. Twigs? Rocks? When I I’m not an have a brilliant career, finds drew those woods, they still expert in any •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• herself driven back by guilt to looked kind of empty and not way, shape, the world that made her in or- woodsy. or form,” she FALL SEMESTER • SEPTEMBER 16–OCTOBER 28 der to manage her flawed and “When I draw an interior says, add- obstinate parents’ lives. In a of a house, it’s like of course ing that she REQUEST A FREE CATALOG certain sense, in Can’t We Talk – they’re gonna have a cou- declines to [email protected] / 413-236-2190 About Something More Pleas- ple of channel changers, not speak on any ant? Roz Chast finds herself in just one. They’re gonna have panel debat- a Roz Chast cartoon, living out some books…and a bowl. And ing the larger t the types of scenarios that she there’s going to be something social issues made a career as cartoonist in the bowl, like maybe one involved. She CLASSES IN GREAT BARRINGTON / LENOX imagining for comic effect. And of the remotes will be in the remains most PITTSFIELD / WILLIAMSTOWN / NORTH ADAMS the result is decidedly tragi- bowl, maybe butterscotch sympathetic Melville and Millay • Frontiers of Science • Jane Eyre comic. candies. I like to imagine you to the many Three rooms of the Rock- could pull open a drawer and people who Epidemics: Past, Present, Future • The Art of Italian Cooking well are dedicated to “Roz know what’s in the drawer. have ap- Wee Drams of the Great Spirits of the World • Vietnam Chast: Cartoon Memoirs.” The That there are pencils inside proached her The World of Mass MoCA • and many more. first gallery showcases the New or pens that didn’t work. When and shared Yorker cartoons for which she I draw an interior, if I didn’t their own is best known (as well as work know it wasn’t a total waste stories. in other media), while a central of time, I’d put a title on every “It’s a room features the original art book. That’s fun for me.” story that a Join over 1000 of the smartest, most engaged, of Can’t We Talk About Some- One of the simultaneously lot of people and active people over 50 in the Berkshires. thing More Pleasant? installed hilarious and poignant sec- have been Partners in Education with Williams College in sequence along the walls. tions of Can’t We Talk About experiencing, Bard College at Simon’s Rock • Mass. College of Liberal Arts (MCLA) The third room collects work Something More Pleasant? and there’s a she’s done as a children’s book is her catalogue of the stuff lot of varia- seek. learn. live. enjoy. illustrator, and it is perhaps accumulated by her packrat tions,” says •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Page 32 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org September 4 to October 13, 2015 Elul 5775 - Tishri 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page PB CULTURE AND ARTS

Vayehi Or – Jewish Spirituality Inspires Local Weaver/Mixed-Media Artist Wendy Rabinowitz

As a child growing up Rabinowitz has had a was almost agony,” she says. on the South Side of Chica- studio in Pittsfield for 26 “It was difficult to start, it was go, Berkshires artist Wendy years and has worked as an difficult to finish, and it was Rabinowitz’s Jewish life was artist since the 1960s, notably difficult to let a piece go.” circumscribed by both par- contributing craftwork to Judy Setting her intention Jew- ents’ estrangement from the Chicago’s landmark Feminist ishly has helped her overcome faith. The only Jewish ritual installation The Dinner Party, the anxiety every artist feels Rabinowitz remembers experi- permanently on view at the standing in front of a blank encing was her grandmother’s Brooklyn Museum. A series canvas – or, in Rabinowitz’s candle lighting on Erev Shab- of chance encounters with case, her loom. She starts her bat, when she would take out an Orthodox Jew in the early day by focusing on Psalm 19 candlesticks brought with the 1970s while she was on a (“The heavens declare the glory family from Poland and mum- retreat at Mount Desert Island of God; the skies proclaim ble the blessing over the flame. in Maine led to her engage- the work of his hands”), then Young Wendy was frustrated ment with Judaism. Invited to scans the Zohar before sitting each time she implored her dinner at the Chabad House in quietly in what she calls a grandmother to teach her the Bangor, Rabinowitz befriended “Shema process” of listening. prayers – the older woman the rabbi and soon struck up Her time at the loom she lik- would shush her and refuse. a deal – the rabbi would teach ens to wandering in the desert, Years later, Rabinowitz vis- Rabinowitz about Judaism if sometimes aimlessly but with ited her dying grandmother in she would teach him about arrival at some destination the hospital. In those emotion- Feminism. “He was actually inevitable. She cites the pas- al last moments together, Rab- curious about the Women’s sage from the Genesis creation inowitz said: “You are passing Movement,” she says, “and story that reads “God saw that over now. Can you tell me the asked me hard questions.” the light was good” as con- prayer over the candles?” While how the rabbi might veying a supremely important “I don’t actually know the have processed her answers message about self-accepting prayer,” her grandmother is unclear, Rabinowitz stayed one’s own work. “Genesis is a finally admitted. “You go and engaged with Judaism, even- blueprint for all creation,” she learn it.” tually exploring the writings of says. As an artist working Rabbi A.J. Heschel. In Hes- Her work was recently fea- primarily in a Jewish mode, chel’s idea that people meet tured at a month-long exhibit Rabinowitz is still exploring, God in places and moments at the Welles Gallery in Lenox, still learning. Her mixed-me- of awe, Rabinowitz was finally and can be found in private dia assemblages and weaving able to connect in a Jewish collection and in synagogues reflect the divine beauty she way to her personal spiritual in the Berkshires and beyond. finds in nature and in Jewish understanding of nature. As Images of her artwork can be mystical and religious tradi- she developed as a creative found at www. tions that celebrate with awe artist, she integrated an in- livingthreadsjudaica1.com. Vessel of Light: Shema, Hear/Listen the wonders of creation. As creasingly Jewish approach an artist, she says, “my way is into her creative process. “Be- Reb Nachman’s way – go to the fore Judaism, working for me field.”

New Yorker Cartoonist Roz Chast: Cartoon Memoirs on view through October 26

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