Congregation Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek

The WholeMegillah

November & December 2018 23 Heshvan – 23 Tevet, 5779

Inside this issue President’s Yom Kippur Address pgs 4–5

Heading to the river on the Kivvun Taschlich walk.

Vlad Smolkin art exhibition Chanukah preparations...... 9 and Books and Bagels with Victoria Smolkin...... 6–8 Genealogical research with Arthur Meyers...... 16 www.cbsrz.org T H A N K Y O U IN THIS ISSUE to the following donors from 8/4/2018 to 10/5/2018

2nd Century Campaign Carol LeWitt & Bruce Josephy: in memory From Our Andy Schatz & Barbara Wolf of Tom Doyle Bruce & Jane Lindenman: in appreciation 3 Building Fund of the High Holy Days Rabbi Marci Bellows Susan Furman Stephen & Barbara Mason: in honor of President's Letter 860-526-8920 Dick Palmer's marriage to Tully [email protected] Chesed Fund Stephen & Barbara Mason: in memory 4–5 Arthur Sherman: in loving memory of of Nat Mason Cantor Belinda Brennan Linda Sherman Cantor Educator Leonard & Ellen Nodelman: in memory Smolkin 860-526-8920 Food/Beverage Fund of Adam Nodelman 6–8 [email protected] Stephen Angle & Debra Guss Harvey Payton & Lori Shafner: in honor of Rabbi Bellows and her heartfelt sermon Brad Jubelirer President Samuels Scholarship Fund on Rosh Hashanah Chanukah, 860-349-2386 Chris & Beth Mercier Elizabeth Pear: in memory of Celia Pear Gabbi [email protected] Palmer & Susan Morrel-Samuels E.A. Quinn Landscape Contracting: in appreciation of Sandy and 9 Amy Conley Religious School Fund Vice-President Andrea Seidman 860-434-0489 Chris & Beth Mercier Phil & Cindy Rischall: In memory of Dorothy Kivvun Korner

Daniel & Lynda Wilkes: in memory of & Harold Rischall, Edward Koster 10 David Fogel Joan Hoberman Phil & Cindy Rischall: in memory of Financial Vice President 860-395-4722 Edward Koster Donations [email protected] Saul & Hila Rosen: in memory of Hamantaschen Latke Debate, Steven Barasz & Shelley Sprague: in memory Marcia Beth Cohen Project Amigo Ali Rosenblum of Philp Sprague Steven & Frani Ross: in memory of Secretary Harvey & Helen Boxer: in loving memory 11 860-391-3231 Ann Samuels Levine of James Cohen Joel & Marcy Saltzman: in memory of Jeff & Beth Brewer: in memory of Jeff Brewer Milton Weintraub Photo Gallery Treasurer Sarah Zomback Joel & Marcy Saltzman: in memory of 860-663-1745 Michael & Pamela Crair: in memory of 12–15 [email protected] Rose Weintraub Natt Crair Sandy & Andrea Seidman: in memory of Rochelle Dauenheimer: in memory of Paths to Past Wendy Bayor Frances Seidman David and Dora Adler Administrator Sharon Taubman: in memory of Louis 16 860-526-8920 Arnold & Barbara Davis: in memory of Glickman, MD and Blossom Glickman [email protected] Joe Belport Victor & Terry Traeger: in honor of the Jane Doyle: in memory of Tom Doyle Shrinkwrapped, High Holy Days The Whole Megillah Martin & Elizabeth Drobiarz: in memory Published bi-monthly by Corinne Weber: in memory of Beatrice Mashed Potatoes of Henry Drobiarz Congregation Beth Shalom Gottfried Rodfe Zedek Ellen Friedman: in memory of Anna Cirulnik 17 Ellen Friedman: in memory of Esther Miller 55 East Kings Highway Rabbi Discretionary Fund PO Box 438 Irving Friedman: in memory of Raymond Arlene & Harry Grossman: in appreciation of Social Action Chester, CT 06412 Voice: 860-526-8920 Fielding Rabbi and in memory of Arlene's mother 18–19 Fax: 860-526-8918 Neil Gottfried & Marilyn White-Gottfried: Brad & Lori Jubelirer: in honor of the www.cbsrz.org in memory of Barbara Margolis volunteers and staff who made the Jewish Trivia Harvey Hoberman: in memory of Jeanne High Holydays so wonderful Editor Hoberman and Joan Hoberman Gerald & Mary Kelly 20 Sean Konecky Burton Jaynes & Susan Sobolov-Jaynes: Melissa Lieberman & Sam Kantrow: in Editor Emeritus in memory of Irving Sobolov appreciation of Rabbi Bellows Remembrance Lary Bloom Gene & Marilyn Kalet: in memory of Bruce & Jane Lindenman: in appreciation of Contributing Photographer Rose Kalet the High Holy Days 21 Deborah Rutty Lorraine Klappholz: in memory of Lowell Rose Madnick, Carole and Steve Riccardi: in Klappholz Editorial Assistant appreciation of Rabbi Bellows and in Calendars Wendy Bayor Jack & Annette Levine: in appreciation of memory of Bert Madnick 22–23 Andrea and Sandy Seidman's kindness Arielle Santangelo: in appreciation of Rabbi Design/Production Justin Marciano Carol LeWitt & Bruce Josephy Bellows 2 From our Rabbi Why ?Why CBSRZ? By Rabbi Marci Bellows

The following is excerpted from Rabbi You may recall receiving a phone call So, chaverim, I have a job for you. On Bellows' Yom Kippur morning sermon. from a member of our Board of Directors this Day of At-One-Ment, 5779, I invite you As human beings, it is so natural to pon- over the past few weeks. Our lay leader- to do five things: der – to whom do I belong? There are so ship wanted to wish you a Good New Year, 1) Be proud of your involvement with why many different answers. Identity is more as well as learn more about CBSRZ CBSRZ. Continue to think about why this fractionalized and complex, determined is special to you and what you’d like to community is so special to you, and help by such factors as country, language, gen- see more of here. More than two-thirds us take steps to ensure that it remains for der expression, profession, political party, of those who answered shared that it is generations to come. socioeconomic status, and religion. Each of our community which is most precious to these components makes up our identity them. And that is remarkable. 2) If you are feeling disconnected like pieces of a pie. Additionally, many of us express a from CBSRZ, please reach out to one of For many of us, identifying the Jewish deep desire for spirituality and con- us in the staff or leadership, anyone with slice of that pie or its importance among nection with something greater than whom you feel comfortable, and talk with the other pieces has become increasingly ourselves, and numerous paths are open us. We’d love to understand more, and difficult. to you. we’d be honored to help you find your What is the binding agent that connects Some connect with the Divine place here. us to the Jewish people? What helps us feel through prayer or music. Some through 3) If you are feeling disconnected from like we belong? There is fear that loyalty to learning our sacred texts or languages. the Jewish community, please let me or Judaism may be waning among younger Some through guided meditation or Cantor Belinda know. We’d love to talk generations of , who tend to dislike walking through our meditation garden. with you, and help you along a path to labels and prefer more fluid lifestyles. They Some through performing acts of Tikkun a new feeling of belonging and being at may seek out the Jewish community to fulfill Olam and good deeds which change the home in our faith tradition. current needs, such as a lifecycle ceremony world. All of these actions, whether we or the education of their children, rather think consciously about it or not, allow 4) Learn something new – some new piece than regarding membership or us to experience the Oneness which of Jewish text, some new part of a lifecycle involvement as a lifetime commitment. unites us all. event, or something new about a - We in the leadership all feel fortunate We strive to be inclusive and welcom- ish ritual. The more you know, the more that you have chosen to belong here, to ing to folks with all different kinds of sto- you’ll feel like a confident, competent part CBSRZ. You belong to the CBSRZ family. ries or journeys which led you to CBSRZ. of the community. Explore your heritage, And I don’t use the word “family” lightly. No matter what brought you here, wel- discuss it, and debate it. Try a new ritual. Let me share with you why we should come home. We are proud to have active You might decide that you don’t like it, or make that Jewish piece of the pie, and the members of all ages at CBSRZ. And all ages that it isn’t meaningful to you, but you will CBSRZ piece of the pie, more present in are invited to learn with us, participate and have experimented and expanded your our lives in this new year. interact with us, and help shape CBSRZ own Jewish identity. You will have made into what you envision it could be. We an IMFORMED CHOICE about your own WHY belong to CBSRZ? have babies, we have nonagenarians, and Jewish life. In order to come together as a Jewish every age in between. community so that we can care for 5) Make a new friend here at CBSRZ. So And, we really hope you just enjoy each other and the world. many wonderful people are here, and we being here. That you find meaning in We really care about each other here, and all have unique stories to tell. our well-curated art exhibits. That you it is heartwarming and inspiring, every day are moved and entertained by our musi- And may we all have a good and healthy that I have a chance to witness it and be cal performances. That you find yourself new year. Amen. part of it. We learn each other’s names. You sitting on the comfy couches just outside find your own unique place, on your own the sanctuary and engaged in friendly L'shalom – In peace, terms, within our larger structure. We care conversation. Rabbi Marci N. Bellows when you aren’t around. 3 Yom Kippur Address: This is Our Home

Dear Friends and I see a holiness and goodness in all be hard to believe but there are of you, and hence, as I look at you moments in the service where my Fellow Congregants: all, I see and I feel G-d’s presence. attention just wanders off.

At the beginning of our service, our I gaze upward and stare upon those I want to begin by wishing each Choir and Cantor bring our mind set magnificent beams that create the and everyone of you Good Yentif into worship by singing Ma Tovu: Mogen Davud: The Star of David and hope 5779 brings us closer to frame that supports our sanctuary our families, our friends, and to our How beautiful are your tents, O from above. community in peace and in good Jacob, your dwellings, O Israel! health. As for me, through Your abundant My eyes wander to study the grace, I enter your house to worship selected divine phrases from As I have the greatest honor to stand with awe in Your sacred place. inscribed in gold leaf on the beams on this bima and address you as of each wall, reminding us of God’s President of our congregation, I look While these words bring us to the holiness and our obligation as a out upon this grand sanctuary and Israelite camp of Bedouin tents nation of Israel to live as a holy peo- I see our Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek encircling the Tabernacle extending ple by pursuing peace, justice, and family. over the desert plains prior to cross- truth through Torah, worship, and ing the Jordan, this verse reminds acts of — righteous giving. I see love. us of the awe and the beauty of this sacred place, as we worship as one. I look beyond the Rabbi and Cantor and I become entranced with the I see unity. When Sol Lewitt designed our sanc- ark presenting its magnificent design tuary, I believe he knew that each and colors. On this most solemn day I see and of the unique features of his design I feel forgiveness, inclusion and would keep the inattentive congre- acceptance. Therefore, I see and feel gant in holy thought. So, I need to Certainly, I know I am not alone. Peace in this House of Peace. make a confession. I know it may

4 How lovely is it to take in the splen- space are ready for the Holidays. I carob trees in the world; as my fore- did landscape and the exterior also want to thank all of the many fathers planted those for me, so I too structure of this holy building as you volunteers, from those who manage plant these for my children." approach from East Kings Highway parking, to preparing the break fast, when you came here this morning, to assisting with Tashlich and the In order to protect our home now or any morning? children’s service. It is our volun- and preserve it for our children and teers and lay leadership that make generations that come after us, it is Our community has a beautiful us a participating community in our essential that we launch a Capital sacred place here at CBSRZ that we CBSRZ life. Campaign for our Second Century. all can proudly call our home. My fellow congregants, it is now Everyone will have the opportunity For the past seventeen years, we imperative that we as a united con- to give out of love for this sacred have come together here to weave gregational family take the necessary place. We hope that those of us our Jewish identity and our spiritu- action to preserve and to protect our with means will feel compelled to ality. We learn together, celebrate Jewish Home. give generously and feel apprecia- together and support one another tion from within for the goodness in times of need or loss. This is the Twenty years have passed since we of their philanthropy. Equally as Center of our Jewish life. We are a last launched a Capital Campaign. important, those of us with financial Jewish family, and this is our fam- It was so successful that we were constraints will have the opportunity ily’s home! able to build our holy space on this to fulfill the of Tzedakah by large parcel of land and pay off the giving whatever they can. We are a However, please take the time to mortgage within months. We were congregation that recognizes that a look around carefully and you will fortunate in that we had many very small gift from some can be a bigger see that the exterior of our syna- generous benefactors. All of us ben- personal expense than a large gift gogue, specifically our siding and efited and continue to benefit from from others. This is and always has our roof, needs repair, replacement, their generosity. Sadly, many of been the spirit of CBSRZ. Any gift is and restoration. With the changing them are no longer with us. But their preciously valued. Thus, every one needs of our Congregation, interior legacy lives on, as they were among of us can savor the benefit of know- modifications for better functionality the many who built this house and ing that part of each of us and our and safety are necessary as well. made it our congregational home. legacy lives in CBSRZ forever.

During these Days of Awe, we focus What made the campaign truly suc- Exodus 25:2 states: “And G-d said to on our inner soul, and we work on cessful was that nearly every Con- Moses, Tell the to bring Me mending and restoring ourselves gregant contributed and thus was an offering for the Tabernacle. You so that we can be more effective as able to take joy in the Mitzvah of are to receive My offering from G-d’s partners in Tikun Olam for the Righteous Giving knowing that part only those whose hearts are com- remainder of the year. As I hope of each of them lives in CBSRZ for- pelled.” My fellow congregants, and pray that we continue to find ever. We are all rewarded for these as I believe you have been spiritu- the Mitzvah of World Repair outside gifts every time we enter this shul, ally uplifted throughout these High of these walls, it is now that we and yes, our legacy will be here as Holiday Services in our beautiful need to take a good look at our very long as this building stands. sacred place we call House of Peace, own home and realize that our own Pursuers of Justice, it is my prayer synagogue needs repair. With this in mind, Rabbi Bellows that all of our hearts stay compelled reminded me of the involv- throughout this year to do what we I know I speak for everyone in ing Honi, a famous first-century Jew- can to preserve our home (and our thanking our Rabbi, our Cantor, our ish sage. It goes like this: legacy) through the Mitzvah of right- Choral Director and Choir and the eous giving. Religious Affairs Committee and One day Honi was journeying on Gabbis for all of their hard work and the road and he saw a man plant- Like these beams that surround us preparation in making our High Hol- ing a carob tree. He asked, "How and merge above to form the Mogen iday Services wonderfully beautiful, long does it take for this tree to bear Davud to frame our sanctuary, our and thus spiritually awakening us for fruit?" The man replied: "Seventy synagogue needs our support. reconciliation and renewal. Our pro- years." Honi then further asked him: fessional staff and especially Wendy "Are you certain that you will live G’Mar ChatiMAH Tovah. Bayor do so much behind the scenes another seventy years?" The man May we all be inscribed in the Book to ensure that our services and holy replied: "I found already grown of Life for a Good Year.

5 ART, BOOKS & BLINIS: A New and Different MAIN STREET ART OPENING and BOOKS & BAGELS EVENT

iblings Vlad Smolkin (artist) and Mars and the transfer of the Western at CBSRZ explore the contradictions SVictoria Smolkin (Russian History Wall to Mars or the last vestige of and complexities of this attitude Professor) will be joining forces on our Jewish humanity being the culti- using humor and an idiosyncratic Sunday, November 11, at 4 pm, to vation of flowers on Mars. approach to art making. Self-criti- share their work with the public at a cism, irony and humor have always new and revamped Main Street Gal- been central to Jewish life and cul- lery Art Opening/Books & Bagels Smolkin has been making art that ture, and there is a rich history of Talk at Congregation Beth Shalom relates to Judaism since childhood. Jewish artists, comedians and musi- Rodfe Zedek in Chester. In 1988 four-year-old Smolkin and cians doing just this. I see myself as his family immigrated to the United working within and continuing this States from the Soviet Union, in part tradition. My works often depict Sharing space at CBSRZ seems to because of their experience as Jews unconventional meeting points and be a highly appropriate thing for who were treated especially badly as overlaps between groups and cul- this brother and sister to do, since both religious and ethnic outsiders. tures: to explore commonality rather each of them is heavily invested Although he did not grow up reli- than difference in the most unex- in space of one sort or the other. gious, his "...family history is marked pected places." Vlad Smolkin describes himself as by intolerance, oppression and mur- a VERY Reformed Jew with strong der based on the fact that they were cultural ties to his Jewish heritage. Jewish." Now, living in the United Victoria Smolkin, a professor of his- He believes that "The essence of all States, Smolkin feels "...a strong tory at Wesleyan University, will be religions is wonder, and Judaism attachment to his ethnic and cultural bringing us her new book A Sacred embraces that essence...Art-making Jewishness and to the history of his Space is Never Empty, in which she is a faith system that weaves in and family." explores the history of atheism in out of all religions." Smolkin's work the Soviet Union and shows how, begs the question "What is faith... in different ways during differing what do we structure our faith "Questions of faith and identity periods of Soviet history, atheism around...ideas, physical objects..." are always present in my work — was reimagined as an alternative His work references movements especially because, for me, being cosmology that in the end failed to such as the Hudson River School in an artist is itself a faith system and take hold and replace the religious which artists see G-d through idyllic world view, a perspective on life's beliefs that never really disappeared landscapes. big questions and an attitude about during the Soviet period. people and things. I do not keep kosher. I do not subscribe fully Although serious at its core, to the stories of the Tanakh, and I A Sacred Space is Never Empty has Smolkin's art is often whimsical, struggle with the concept of a uni- been greeted with critical acclaim. almost "nonsensical" (Smolkin's fying G-d force. With that said, I Paul W. Werth, author of The Tsar's comment). His outer space series, do not consider myself to be any Foreign Faiths: Toleration and the for example, envisions how Judaism less Jewish than more traditional Fate of Religious Freedom in Impe- might exist on other planets such as Jews. The works that I will present rial Russia, wrote: "This splendid

6 book skillfully reveals the changing nature of religion in the USSR, the limits of secularization under Com- munism, and the important place of spirituality in the twentieth century. Smolkin exposes the striking irony of how Soviet authorities found themselves trying to replicate the spiritual and emotional offerings of religion even as they sought to destroy it."

Denis Kozlov, author of The Read- ers of “Novyi Mir"; Coming to Terms with the Stalinist Past notes: "This is a very important book, highly innovative and superbly researched. Smolkin has written nothing less than a history of the making — and subsequent unmaking — of Soviet atheism. A must-read."

Catriona Kelly, in the Times Literary Supplement, called the book "engag- ing and informative" and described its prose as lively and often enter- taining. Victoria Smolkin

Vlad and Victoria will be sharing their work with us in our space at CBSRZ on Sunday afternoon, begin- ning at 4 pm. This opening recep- tion is open to the public at no charge.

Vlad's art will be on display, avail- able for sale, in our Main Street Gal- lery, and Victoria's book will also be available both for sale and for autographing after she gives a talk on the origin of and impetus behind her book. Her family’s background and experience were no less pivotal for her than it was for her brother in determining the direction she was to follow — specializing in Soviet and contemporary Russian history. She has written that her historian's inter- est in the forces that shape human experience led her to focus on the institutions and structures of power that shape culture and everyday life: politics, ideology, and religion. That in turn led her to investigate how Continued on page 8 7 ART, BOOKS & BLINIS Continued from page 7

This is a Tree (from Mars landscapes), 2018 Flashe and gouache on paper 6 x 8 inches

Midnight in the Garden, 2017 Acrylic and gouache Keyhole (from Mars on board landscapes), 2018 10.5 x 7.5 inches Flashe and gouache on paper 18 x 14.5 inches

modern states, in their efforts to refreshments and beverages, this 2018, and the first three weeks of mobilize citizens for particular polit- time thematically adapted to include January, 2019. And be sure to come ical and economic goals, shape lived blintzes, blinis and, who knows, to a new type of art opening/book experience through various ideolog- perhaps a little vodka? event on Sunday, November 11, at ical and cultural projects. Certainly, 4 pm, and share our ‘Sacred Space’ an important, topical and thought- with both Smolkins, their thought- provoking subject in our day. But Vlad Smolkin's exhibit can be provoking insights and the fascinat- one that will be leavened by Vlad's viewed Monday through Friday, ing work they have created. whimsical art and the always ample 10am–3pm, November, December, 8 Religious Affairs At CBSRZ

Celebrate the Festival of Lights!!

lease join us as we celebrate latkes, vegetables, rice, etc.). Serv- at 4:00 pm, Liz Jones and Sue Peck Shabbat and the sixth night of ices will begin at 7:00pm when we will be working in the kitchen at PChanukah! On Friday Decem- will be joined by our beautiful choir. LATKEPALOOZA making the deli- ber 7 at 6:00pm we will have a Please bring your favorite menorah cious latkes we will be eating at NON-DAIRY potluck dinner. A gor- and seven candles; we will continue dinner. If you are able, please come geous brisket is being provided by our tradition of lighting all of the and help them! You can simply Bob Zemmel of Alforno Restaurant menorahs and basking in the glow come to help, or bring your own and CBSRZ will provide latkes and of the candle light. Oneg will follow latke batter to add to the festivities. beverages. We ask that those coming services. Please contact Liz Jones if you are for dinner to bring a meat dish, or interested in helping, sagenbasil@ other non-dairy side dishes (salads, This promises to be a great evening, aol.com. but we will need help! Beginning

Gabbi Report

e want to send a heartfelt or read one of the English prayers, Kol Nidre Torah holders. This year’s thank you to the 140 plus were chosen because they help make theme was congregants who have Wcongregants that partici- CBSRZ what it is today. These are been members for twenty or more pated in our Rosh Hashana and Yom our Board members, our Committee years. Fortunately for us, we have Kippur services. Many of you get Chairs and our volunteers. With- many such congregants and had to nervous but we truly appreciate your out them, CBSRZ would not be the pick a representation so the bima participation. Our Torah readers and spiritual and lively place that it is. It didn’t get too crowded! Hebrew Haftarah readers are a very was wonderful to see you all up on special group and obviously have the the bima along with our beloved On behalf of your Gabbis, we wish hardest job. Those that were asked Rabbi, Cantor and choir. Every year, you a healthy and sweet new year. to open the ark, or have an aliyah, we come up with a theme for the —Kevin Fox and Laura Roman

9 Kivvun Korner Rabbi Bellows Rabbi Rabbi Bellows Rabbi Rabbi Bellows Rabbi Rabbi Bellows Rabbi Rabbi Bellows Rabbi

Happy Birthday! Yom Huledet Sameach!

November December Alexander Infeld November 1 Cameron Lieberman December 4 Erin Brennan November 4 Annika Liss December 18 Morgan Corpuel November 21 10 ATTENTION: Looking for phi- with long ones preceded and followed Hamantaschen losophers, satirists, humorists, by short ones. , scholars, scientists, artists, Latke Debate mystics, mathematicians, cantors, The audience will act as judges for the doctors, therapists, humanists, debate and vote for a winner at the poets, etc. who would be inter- end of the proceedings. The modera- ested in participating at CBSRZ tor, Rabbi Bellows, will announce the on Sunday, Feb. 24, 2019. Time to winner but may decide, as moderator, be announced. to use her power to ‘moderate’ the final score(s). This will be a mock-formal debate, in true academic style. Participants Examples of thrust of will march into the Great Hall of different arguments: CBSRZ (social hall) in full academic regalia, to the strains of ‘Pomp and Anti Arguments: Circumstance’, with flunkies holding Anti-Hamantaschen - Hamantaschen banners for each ‘side’, one banner come from a violent story. for Latkes, one for Hamantaschen. Anti-Latke - Latkes are made of pota- The moderator, Rabbi Bellows, will toes which contributed to the Irish start the proceedings by making a few famine. remarks about the historical signifi- Pro Arguments: cance of this momentous event, then Pro-Latke: The latke represents introducing, one by one, each of the warmth, a mother's love and the case debaters with short and pithy recital of rests. his/her credentials (faux credentials, if you please). Pro-Hamantaschen - The triangular shape of Hamantaschen is symbolic to Jews. Two triangles make a Jewish star. The debaters will sit in a row behind the podium. Presentations can vary in Food (obviously, latkes and haman- length from short and sweet to long taschen) will be served as will liquid and ponderous, and will be staggered refreshment, including wine. CBSRZ Yarn Crafters — ShelleySprague or the last 6 months or so, the which volunteers knit or crochet squares and to drop off our squares. It was so CBSRZ Chesed Yarn Crafters have that are made into afghans for students much fun to go down to Sam and Shar- Fbeen knitting and crocheting 6 inch who are beginning their scholarships. on’s basement, which is totally dedicated by 6 inch squares for an organization Project Amigo pays seamstresses living to the cause, to see the meticulously called Project Amigo, in addition to the in a migrant camp in Colima 250 pesos sorted thousands of colorful knitted comfort shawls and chemo caps that we (approximately 14$) to sew the squares and crocheted squares that are waiting create for Yale-New Haven Hospital and into afghans. Their wages are paid by to be sorted into lots of 96 (the amount Hospice. Project Amigo is a charity that volunteers in the U.S and Canada. of one afghan). There are individuals supports students in Colima, rural west- and groups from 48 states busily creat- ern Mexico so that they can create their Many scholarship students live in ing these beautiful squares and sending own educational opportunities and bet- unheated homes in the mountains where them to Cheshire. Sam just shipped 16 ter their quality of life. it can get down to the 50s at night. The large boxes, each containing 9 packages hope is that the afghans will help keep of 96 squares, to Mexico, and there are The foundation removes the financial the students warm on chilly nights, con- many more needing to be bundled. barriers to education through scholar- tribute to many nights of restful sleep ships that include school fees, transporta- and lead to alert students who do much The CBSRZ Yarn Crafters will be reach- tion, uniforms and school supplies, and better academically. ing out to area senior centers and knit- a hot lunch. ting groups to see if we can double the In July our group held a Knit-in at CBSRZ number of squares we donate next time! Sam and Sharon Brown of Cheshire have and collected 160 squares! On August 8, So, if you are inspired to join us, contact started an initiative in the United States in I drove to Cheshire to meet Sam Brown me at [email protected]. 11 PICTURE GALLERY Bellows Rabbi

Doing what we do best. Rabbi Bellows Rabbi

12 The congregation unspools a Torah scroll to celebrate Simchat Torah.

13 Liz Jones

Consecration ceremony in the sanctuary: A special way to commemorate the beginning of a child’s formal at CBSRZ and affirms our commitment and dedication to educating our children in the Jewish tradition. Tracy Kleinberg Tracy

14 Deborah Rutty Deborah

CBSRZ VP Amy Conley addresses the crowd at the dedication of the Syd and Bernie Slater Meditation Garden. Deborah Rutty Deborah Rutty Deborah

Dedication of the Syd and Bernie Slater Meditation Garden. Erica Udoff and Linda Pinn present contribution from the Art Gallery Committee.

Liv and Noa González Twins. Lesser (Liv on left, Doubly welcome Ellie and Evan Philips Noa on right)

15 PATHS TO THE PAST, AND FORWARD TO THE PRESENT by Arthur S. Meyers

here are many reasons we By borrowing books through your In this instance it was Gabriella Safran, explore genealogy or (my prefer- local library, such as Photograph- very knowledgeable Professor in Jew- Tence) family history. One friend ing the Jewish Nation: Pictures from ish Studies at Stanford University. likes to see how far back his family S. Ansky's Ethnographic Expeditions can be traced through the computer. (Brandeis Univ. Press; Univ. Press of Over three days, we explored the life Another friend proudly shares his pre- New England, 2009), you can see what and writings of S. Ansky, Russian and Mayflower roots. Still others work in Czarist Russia looked and felt like for writer, ethnographer, and a determined way (and against some people in the Pale. Or you can visit revolutionary. He wrote The Dybbuk, “brick walls”) for basic documentation, outstanding free, nearby exhibits as an the cornerstone of the Jewish theater such as Marcia, my wife. individual or on a group tour: https:// in both Hebrew and Yiddish, during www.yiddishbookcenter.org/visit/ devastating war and violent revolu- permanent-visiting-exhibits tions. Professor Safran led us in learn- Some are handed published research ing about the writer’s life and work (my German side.) Others are con- Another path to the past is through and the connections between political tent to find in written history enough attending conferences and week- crisis and Jewish creativity through information to understand what end programs, as Marcia and I did in lectures, a film screening, guided read- it was like in that time and place October at the Yiddish Book Center ings, and much discussion among the for families, without having all the in Amherst, MA. We had attended participants, who came from around documentation or knowing specific another program there two years ago the country with a wide range of ages details. (I wondered what my Rus- but this one was truly outstanding. and backgrounds. For the next such sian side ate on the ships they came The Center brings in eminent scholars, weekends, call 413/256-4900, or look on and there it is in books today.) who are excellent in communicating. at: https://www.yiddishbookcenter.org

Still another path to the past (and forward to the present) is to reflect on our own stories, as I did 30 years ago, during an earlier national debate on immigration, when I wrote: We walked across the frozen Bering Strait And spread out across the land, explored the northeast coast But decided not to stay, came in search of opportunity And found it, came for religious freedom But not for everybody, were forced to come, and remained, If we didn’t die during the passage, were starving and had no other choice, So we worked and prospered, were fleeing tyranny, And heard about this land, came to be with family, But didn’t always stay, had no choice, If we wanted to live. We came on ships planes any transport walked hid bribed lied. We are here now. We all came here.

(By the way, my Russian family came through “chain migration,” _as the first ones worked to save money to bring the others.) 16 Mashed Potatoes at Thanksgiving?

e hosted Thanksgiving I was intrigued, so I did an infor- tend to follow those of our parents. for many years. In addi- mal survey. Sure enough, every Traditions provide comfort — as does Wtion to family, we started one of our non-Jewish guests had family — and Thanksgiving is nothing inviting friends who didn’t have always had mashed potatoes on if not family and comfort. extended families in the area. We the Thanksgiving table. None of have been as large a group as 25 our guests who’d grown up with I’m thankful for the mashed pota- in all, different ages, different reli- two Jewish parents had ever had toes, though I don’t eat them: gions, different regions of origin mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving. always the sweet potatoes. And it and different diets. We planned for is fun — and important — to make vegetarians, vegans, gluten-frees It’s not hard to figure out why. everyone feel at home. and pickies. And my sister and her Mashed potatoes have (or is it “has”) husband keep kosher. The first year, milk. Milk and turkey isn’t kosher Celebrate diversity! we even bought an organic, free- (or is it “aren’t” — but I digress). range, kosher turkey, but my son Historical note: Neither potatoes nor and I were up until 2am pulling out But almost none of the Jewish guests pinfeathers with pliers, so we’ve sweet potatoes were likely included (other than my brother-in-law) had a in the original Thanksgiving, though had a little low-key kosher turkey family tradition of for at least since, and one year a minister friend both had been brought back to Europe several generations. Indeed, most of by early explorers of South America, who’s a great cook made a kosher our Jewish guests eat treif and have turducken! and both were plentiful in Europe by no problem with their Thanksgiving the time of the Plymouth and James- pie a la mode. Yet, the tradition for town colonies. Mashed potatoes were Most fascinating has been the pota- Jewish families of only sweet pota- included in cookbooks as early as the toes. As our guests offered to bring toes remained. Despite significant mid-eighteenth century, and sweet various dishes, someone asked and regular publicity in the general potatoes not long after. Perhaps also of about bringing “the” mashed pota- press about people serving mashed interest, candied yams, a Thanksgiv- toes. I’ve occasionally liked mashed potatoes at Thanksgiving. ing favorite, used meringue until about potatoes, but I realized I’d never 1919, when there was a big push to use been to a Thanksgiving with mashed Traditions are that way. We talk of the newly introduced marshmallow; the potatoes — always sweet potatoes mindfulness, yet many decisions seem popular switch from meringue to the (one of my great aunts swore her to be because we’ve always done it generally non-kosher marshmallow does great health at 100 was due to eating that way. Religious customs, political not appear causally related to the severe a sweet potato every day). affiliation, and other “identities” often anti-immigrant sentiment at that time.

Shrink Wrapped at BOOKS & BAGELS

n Sunday, December 9, porary love story. This witty and and surprising twists. Irene will Books & Bagels will be wel- irreverent tale tracks Sophie Mark's delight us with readings from the Ocoming Irene Silvers (Silber- remarkable and amusing journey to book and the story of bringing this stein) and her new novel, Shrink find empowerment and happiness book to fruition. Come prepared Wrapped, a humorous, contem- in a world of messy relationships to be highly entertained!

17 ter Historical Society and member of the SAC invites all members of CBSRZ to Chester Land Trust. submit issues for consideration. What is- sues raised during the campaign resonate SOCIAL Sponsored by T’ruah, the Rabbinic Call with you? As the parties prepare their for Human Rights, Human Rights Shabbat agendas over the next two months, what celebrates International Human Rights issues should we air? As organizations that ACTION Day on December 10, the date on which you value tell you of their goals – or con- the United Nations adopted the Universal cerns – please pass those along to andy@ COMMITTEENEWS Declaration of Human Rights in 1948. andrewschatz.com.

The Constance Baker Motley Preserve on And then come be part of the discussion Constance Baker Cedar Lake Road in Chester, across from and decision. the Motley’s home from 1985 to 2005, was Motley, Chester’s Civil created last year by the Chester Land Trust Rights Giant–Human and contains a written and pictoral history JEWS AND THE CIVIL Rights Shabbat Decem- of Judge Motley’s life in Chester. RIGHTS MOVEMENT ber 14 at 7:30 pm CBSRZ TO HOST – OUR DISCUSSION On the evening of December 14, following CONTINUES a short Shabbat service for Human Rights LEGISLATIVE FORUM Shabbat (beginning at 7:30 pm), CBSRZ MARCH 7 Please hold Friday evening January 18 – the will host a presentation and discussion start of the weekend honoring Martin of the life and work of Constance Baker Regardless of who wins when Connecticut Luther King Jr. Motley, who as a key civil rights lawyer and goes to the polls this month, profound The Social Action Committee has tradi- strategist, elected official and judge helped issues will face our government in 2019. tionally hosted an MLK weekend event dismantle segregation in America. Born in With expected deficits in the billions, hard New Haven, she worked with Thurgood choices are likely, and prioritization among focusing on civil rights. Last year, we Marshall, as a lawyer with the NAACP Le- programs will be critical. showed a film about Rabbi Joachim Prinz, gal Defense and Education Fund, including one of Dr. King’s friends and colleagues, on the landmark Brown v. Board of Educa- Against this backdrop, the CBSRZ Social who spoke immediately following Dr. tion case. She was later elected to the New Action Committee will host a legislative King at the 1963 March on Washington, urging that in the face of discrimination York State Senate, was the first female forum on Thursday March 7. We will look elected as Borough President at several possible areas for legislative “the most urgent, the most disgraceful, the most shameful and the most tragic and first African American woman ap- advocacy. These may or may not require pointed a Federal District Court Judge. financial appropriations. We particularly problem is silence.” A talk by Judge Clif- Judge Motley spent weekends, vacations look for issues that involve essential Jewish ton Graves, Jr., and discussion that fol- and holidays at her home at 99 Cedar Lake commandments and traditions. lowed, highlighted the role that the Jew- Road in Chester from 1965 until her death in 2005.

Writer, activist and historian Marta Daniels will lead a discussion after presenting Crusader for Justice, a power-point slide show she created exploring Judge Motley’s life as a lawyer, public servant and judge, as well as her life spent in Chester. Ms. Daniels, author of three books, dozens of academic papers and hundreds of research papers and op-ed articles, spent a 35-year professional career focused on expanding and improving civic engagement on public policy issues of peace, justice and economic inequality. She helped organize the 1968 Poor People’s Campaign conceived by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference. She remains a political and civil rights activist as The CBSRZ board of directors kicked off our annual High Holiday food drive. For the past six years, we have collected and well as serving as a trustee of the Ches- delivered to the Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries over 2,000 pounds of food each year, which we are told is the largest annual contribution to SSKP. This year totaled over 2100 pounds. 18 ish community played in the civil rights and SAC’s Johanna Schaefer is current movement of the 1950s and 1960s. president, of UACT, and members of the CBSRZ social action team have worked This year, we hope to continue that with Mr. Sajuti through UACT. discussion. We will be joined by a repre- sentative of the Religious Action Center Each year, SAC raises money through the of (RAC). It has long sale of food at the annual CBSRZ spring been noted that the RAC conference concert and sends proceeds to area Henry Gottieb helps Bruce Josephy deposit bags full of room is where lawyers drafted much of food into the Shoreline Soup Kitchens & Pantries truck at non-profit organizations. Past recipients the civil rights legislation of the 1960s, CBSRZ on Yom Kippur. Ellen Rabin, the executive director have included Shoreline Soup Kitchens & including the Voting Rights Act of 1965. of SSKP, drove the truck to CBSRZ shortly before Kol Nidre; Pantries, HOPE Partnership, York Cor- We will try to explore more deeply the she stayed for the Kol Nidre service and thanked CBSRZ rectional Institute and Bare Necessities, and the Social Action Committee for our commitment and historic relationship between the Jewish tzedakah. among others. Although CBSRZ does not and African American communities – and have the ability to provide physical sanctu- where we go from here. ary, by sending this money to the Unitar- ian Universalist Church, we hope to call attention to the help that congregation, also YORK PRISON TO a member of UACT, has provided to Mr. HOST CBSRZ BOOK Sajuti, his family, and the cause of freedom over the past year, as Mr. Sajuti fights legal CLUB AND CHOIR battles to stay in the U.S. SAC also thanks the CBSRZ congregants who have donated York Correctional Institution, the all female On Yom Kippur morning Alex and Zach Infeld helped load funds to support sanctuary for Mr. Sajuti. prison in Niantic and only women’s prison food onto the truck supplied by Shoreline Soup Kitchens in Connecticut, has accepted two CBSRZ & Pantries. This year, colorful and re-usable bags were donated by Rona Malakoff and Ethan Goller, passed If you would like to help in the sanctuary proposals for ongoing projects. out by the Social Action Committee at Rosh Hashanah efforts, please contact Linda Rigono – and used by CBSRZ congregants to deliver food on Yom [email protected]. CBSRZ and York will assemble a joint Kippur; these bags will also be used by SSKP clients. women’s book club, to meet at York and discuss books chosen by the entire needed to help with preparation serving Annual Clothes Drive group. We anticipate meetings once a and clean up between 4 and 6pm. month beginning soon. Dates and times for Parkville Com- have not yet been selected, and will If you would like to volunteer, please munity School probably be determined by schedules of contact Teri Fogel for Deep River the women at York, but it is likely to be ([email protected]) or Johanna For the past four years, we have sponsored weekday or Sunday afternoons. Depend- Schaefer for Chester (johannadschaefer a clothing drive for Parkville Community ing upon the number of women at York @gmail.com). School in Hartford. 83% of the 535 students who are interested, CBSRZ may put to- in this PK through 5th grade public school gether more than one book club. Anyone are students from low income families. interested in possibly being part of the SOCIAL ACTION COM- book club should contact Linda Rigono MITTEE DIRECTS Many of you contributed in the past from ([email protected]). the goodness of your hearts in the true FUNDS TO SUPPORT spirit of Tzedakah. We are again appealing The choir at CBSRZ will also be doing a to you to help provide winter coats and joint program with women at York. The SANCTUARY jackets for the students. Sizes range from program will focus not only on music in The Social Action Committee has sent a 6 to 16. Clothes can be dropped off in the general but religious music in particular. check for $600 on behalf of CBSRZ to box located in the religious school wing, as Meg Gister, CBSRZ choir director, plans the Unitarian Universalist Church of Me- you enter on the left. to include not just singing but discussions riden to support its efforts in providing about experience and connection. If you prefer, you can give Wendy a check sanctuary. For over a year, the UU Church made out to CBSRZ, and we will purchase has provided sanctuary for Sujitno Sajuti, the needed 69, who came from Indonesia in 1981 to clothes. Want to Volunteer to pursue his Master’s (Columbia University) Help with a Meal Site? and PhD (UConn). Mr. Sajuti, who has In appreciation, been trying to get a green card for nearly Sandy Herzog CBSRZ prepares and serves meals each 40 years, has worked extensively on social Social Action calendar quarter in Deep River and justice in Connecticut throughout that Committee Chester. The upcoming meal in Deep River period, including with United Action Con- Sandherz2003 is Thursday November 15, and Chester necticut (UACT). CBSRZ is a member, @yahoo.com is Sunday December 16. Volunteers are 19 Jewish Trivia for November courTesy of NormaN haNeNbaum

November November 23, 2009 Yitzhak Aronowicz: captain ofe th November 3, 1917 Lord Arthur Balfour, British Foreign Exodus, a ship with 4500 Jews on Secretary, signed the Balfour Dec- board bound for Israel but refused laration established the state of entry. Palestine for Arabs and Jews. November 29, 1986 Cary Grant (born Archibald November 4, 1995 Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin Leach): actor assassinated at a peace rally by Yigal Amir, an Israelite right-wing extremist. November 4, 1954 Abe Ribicoff elected governor of Connecticut December November 4, 1938 The Andrew Sisters record “Bei mir December 2, 1763 Dedication of the Touro Syna- bist du Schön.” gogue in Newport, Rhode Island. November 4, 1938 Kate Smith introduces “God Bless Touro is the oldest synagogue in America” to her radio program, America. song composed by Irving Berlin. December 7, 2017 U.S. recommends that Jerusalem November 9-10, 1938 Kristallnacht, Night of the Broken become the capital of the State of Glass, in Germany and Austria, Israel. considered the beginning of the December 8, 1987 Palestine Intifada founded by Holocaust. Yasser Arafat. November 12, 1954 Ellis Island closed. It openedn i December 26, 1936 Arturo Toscanini conducts the 1897 and processed over 20 mil- first performance of the Israeli lion immigrants. Philharmonic in Tel Aviv. The November 20, 1945 Nuremberg trials begin for the orchestra was founded by the Nazi leaders. Polish violinist Bronislaw Huber- man in 1935. Deceased Deceased November 1, 1985 Phil Silvers: comedian, actor December 1, 1973 David Ben Gurion: Israeli Prime November 4, 1995 Yitzhak Rabin: Israeli prime minister Minister November 4, 1847 Felix Mendelsohn: composer December 2, 1990 Aaron Copland: musician November 8, 1983 Rabbi Mordecai Kaplan: founder December 8, 1978 Golda Meir: Israeli Prime Minister of Reconstructionism December 10, 1987 Jascha Heifitz: violinist November 8, 1905 Dorothy Kilgallen: writer, newscaster December 12, 1971 David Sarnoff: founder of RCA November 9, 1991 Yves Montand: actor December 14, 2014 Bess Myerson: politician, November 9, 1952 Chaim Weizman: first president of television actress, former Israel Miss America November 10, 1960 Isadore Freed: composer of Jewish December 16, 1984 Jan Pierce: opera singer melodies December20, 1962 Arthur Rubinstein: pianist November 10, 1973 Allan Sherman: singer, comedian December 23, 2000 Victor Borge: pianist November 11, 1995 Jerome Kern: composer December 25, 2016 Carrie Fisher: actress November 18, 2004 Cy Coleman: composer December 26, 2016 Debbie Reynolds: actress November 20, 2004 Yasser Arafat: leader of PLO December 26, 1974 Jack Benny: entertainer November 22, 2014 Claire Bagelman: singer (of the Barry Sisters) December 29, 1967 Paul Whiteman: conductor November 23, 2006 Betty Comden: lyricist December 30, 1979 Richard Rogers: composer

20 REMEMBRANCE Charles Gottfried Leonore Palmer Tobias Abraham Buchzeiger Jacob Rabinowitz Memorial Plaques Eileen M. Ilberman Justive V. Tobis David Cirulnik Rita Rogers Heshvan 23, 5779 to 22, 5779 Paul Jaffe Regina Waldinger Davida Schatz Edelson Minnie Rogow Jack Banner Joseph Katz Sara Rotfuss Yosoloff Isadore Elson Jacob Ronor Samuel Banner Miriam Klar Dora Zelvin Max Fine Yetta Sacks Bunie Baron Hyman Peck Eva Fisher Selick Samuels Jack Baron Philip Peckeroff Memorial Plaques Rose Frankel Arthur Schur Rose Baron Isidore Raab Kislev 23, 5779 to Tevet 23, 5779 Jack Freed Irving Schwolsky Nathan Benson Joy Hellman Resnikoff Eleanor Adler Mary Pinkus Goldstein Frances Siegel Sam Chiat Rabbi Alexander Lawrence Joel Adler Sol Harris Ruth Silverman Harry Debowsky Schindler Samuel Adler Irving Isaacson Mark Simon Lee Diamond Sonia Schulman Abraham Altman Harold Leichtman Esther Sivin Jerome Fischbach Lucille Schur Esther Baron M.C. LeWitt Julius Starr Arthur Frank Lillian Shaftel Leah Baron Jack Lifshitz Arthur Tobias Nathan Frankel Morris Sigel Norman Bass Victor Marko Pearl Weiner Helen Friedman Esther Smith Pearl Wexler Bass Pauline Mazer Max Zavadnick Rachel Friedman Samuel L. Sollins Martha Bernstein Yetta Michael Irving Ziprin Rachel Friend Lester Sondak Rosalind Berwick Gladys Oppenheimer Florence Gage Abraham Sprecher Bella Breslow Marvin Palmer Harry Glazer Benjamin Sprecher Harris Breslow Abraham Peckeroff Lubah Peck Ruben – beloved parent of Hastings Yahrzeits Heshvan 23, 5779 to Kislev 22, 5779 Michael Peck Ethel Goodman – mother of Linda Polomski Harry Archambault – father of Ray Dorothy Rubin – mother of Matthew Rubin Victor Gottfried – father of Corinne Weber Archambault George Saffir – grandfather of Ron and Max Guttman – father of Evelyn Foster Abraham Baskin – stepfather of Linda Pinn Richard Glassman Constance Hieatt – sister of Ellen Nodelman Ruth Yavner Belgrade – mother of Barbara Maxine Schaefer – sister-in-law of Johanna Alanna Hitschmann – friend of Gene & Marilyn Spargo Schaefer Kalet Jeremy Bixon – late husband of Rebecca Bixon Rabbi Alexander Schindler – father of Debra Marcus Hoberman – father of Harvey April Lee Bloch – cousin of Emma Gonzalez- Trautmann Hoberman Lesser Lillian Shaftel – mother of Maxine Leichtman Hanna Issner – great-grandmother of Janet Celia Braunstein – grandmother of Natalie Adam Singer – beloved cousin of David & Teri Scharr Gochberg and grandmother of Lindstrom Fogel Marlene Scharr Etta Cohn -grandmother of Gail Feld Esther Smith – mother of Susan Furman and Bernard Kalet – brother of Gene Kalet Lee Diamond – father of Barbara Mason Martin Smith Seymour “Tim” Krechevsky – brother-in-law of Dora Fink – mother of Hyman Fink Priscilla Sobrino – grandmother of Bianca Roni Berson Jerome Fischbach – father of Nancy Fischbach Gonzalez-Lesser Charlotte Kurtzberg – mother of Howard Helen Friedman – sister of Estelle Breslow Sol Stolowy – grandfather of Ethan Goller Kurtzberg Rachel Friend – grandmother of Sheila Friend Justine V. Tobis – mother of Justine Redak Henry Landauer – uncle of Corinne Weber Byrne Todd Wahl – friend of Rabbi Marci Bellows Harold Leichtman – father-in-law of Maxine Barry Gilman – cousin of Ellen Gottfried Silvia White – mother-in-law of Marilyn White- Leichtman Helen Gilman – aunt of Ellen Gottfried Gottfried Michael Levy – father of Hadass Rubin Lewis Goldfinger – father of Eve Ber Dolores Malakoff – mother of Rona Malakoff Adaline Barbara Goodman – sister of Linda Yahrzeits Kislev 23, 5779 to Tevet 23, 5779 Ann Marcus – mother of Natalie Lindstrom and Polomski grandmother of Lauren and Meg Gister Lawrence Gottfried – brother of Ellen Gottfried Eleanor Adler – aunt of Sally Michael Yetta Michael – grand-mother of Sally Michael Benjamin Greenberg – father of Penny Robiner Pomerantz Pomerantz Richard Hays – brother of David Hays Lawrence Joel Adler – brother of Rochelle Muriel Moran – mother of Donna Amarant Marcus Hoberman – father of Harvey Dauenheimer Laurette Pinn – mother of Edward Pinn Hoberman Samuel Adler – grandfather of Sally Michael Rita Rogers – wife of Samuel Rogers Jack Hyman– grandfather of Stephen Davis Pomerantz Esther Schaffer – mother of Marilyn White- Eileen Ilberman – wife of Barry Ilberman Harry Archambault – father of Ray Gottfried Benjamin Jackoway – father of Rita Fink Archambault Eliezer Schindler – grandfather of Debra Dr. Maurice Jacobs – father of Stephen Jacobs Sylvia Baker – mother of Stuart Baker Trautmann Miriam Jacobson – mother of Beth Laites Norman Bass – father of Susan Fine Sali Schindler – grandmother of Debra Erwin Kahn – uncle of Linda Sherman Pearl Wexler Bass – mother of Susan Fine Trautmann Regina Kest – sister of Gene Kalet Rosella Berkon – grandmother of Rebecca Georganne Schrepferman – mother of Lisanne Miriam Klar – wife of David Klar, mother of Blake Kaplan Iris, and dear friend of Maureen Layman Alvin Bielot – father of Doreen Joslow Irving Schwolsky – father of Peter and John Beverly Gilman McCaffrey – cousin of Ellen Gilda Biener – cousin of Eve Ber Schwolsky Gottfried Breindel Bloch – grandmother of Michael Crair Marc Sherman – brother of Linda Pinn Sol Meller – father of Tracy Kleinberg Bella Breslow – mother-in-law of Estelle Breslow Frances Siegel – grandmother of James Cohen Jacqueline Michael – mother of Sally Michael David Cirulnik – father of Hila Rosen Max Simon – father of Ken Simon Pomerantz Leroy Averill Cohen – father of Hila Rosen Reverend Robert Trautmann – father of Robert Eileen Moran – sister of Donna Moran Stella DeNicola - mother of John DeNicola Trautmann Edwin Perlstein – father of Mitch Perlstein Hyman Farber – father of Beverly Glassman Victor Udoff – father of Erica Udoff Sylvia Price – mother of Michael Price Frances Fine – mother of Philip Fine Olive Wright – mother of Doris Helbing Joy Hellman Resnikoff – mother of Henry Erwin Fischer – grandfather of Rick Hornung Yvonne Young – friend of Robert & Debra Resnikoff Arthur Goldstein – father of Harvey Goldstein Trautmann Marvin Radom – father of Debra Landrey Mary Pinkus Goldstein – mother of Jackie Gertrude Zemmel – mother of Bob Zemmel

Condolences are extended to: Please remember to inform either Beth Brewer or Shelley Sprague, co-chairs of Denny Van Liew, on the loss of his mother Mary Ann Van Liew the Chesed Committee, if you or someone you know is ill, in need of help, or has experienced a death in the family... Marvin and Rita Ruzansky, on the loss of their daughter Susan Bush Peter Leff M.D., on the loss of his mother Deborah Leff Michele Kleiman, Stephen Rozenberg and family on the loss of ...Our Chesed Committee is here to help. Michele’s father, Howard Kleiman. 21

23 Heshvan- NOVEMBER 22 Kislev, 2018 5779

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 23 HESHVAN 2 24 HESHVAN 3 25 HESHVAN Congregational Trip to Israel Congregational Trip to Israel Congregational Trip to Israel 5:30pm Religious Affairs 7:30 Erev Shabbat Service 9:00 am Committee

4 26 HESHVAN 5 27 HESHVAN 6 28 HESHVAN 7 29 HESHVAN 8 30 HESHVAN 9 10 2 KISLEV ELECTION DA Congregational Trip to Israel Congregational Trip to Israel 4:15pm - 5:45pm Kadima 12:00 pm Lunch and Learn 7:30pm Erev Shabbat Service 9:00am Holy Scrollers 9:30am - 10:15am Hatchala (Gr 4-7) with choir and Kristallnacht 10:30am Shabbat service and 9:30am - 12:00pm Kadima Congregational Trip to Israel Remembrance bat mitzvah of Erin Brennan (Gr K-7) 5:30 pm Facilities 7:00 pm Choir

11 3 KISLEV 12 4 KISLEV 13 5 KISLEV 14 6 KISLEV 15 7 KISLEV 16 8 KISLEV 17 9 KISLEV VETERANS DAY 3:00pm SSKP Board meeting 4:15pm - 5:45pm Kadima 4:00pm - 6:15pm Deep River 7:30 pm Erev Shabbat Service 9:00 am Torah Study 7:00pm Choir Rehearsal (Gr 4-7) Meal Site 10:30am - 1:00pm B'nai Mitzvah 9:30am - 12:00pm Kadima 6:00pm - 7:30pm Adult B'nai 7:00pm Board of Directors workshop #2 (Gr K-7) Mitzvah 12:00pm - 1:30pm Gesher (Grades 8-9) 4:00pm - 6:00pm Smolkin - Art Reception and Book Discussion

18 10 KISLEV 19 11 KISLEV 20 12 KISLEV 21 13 KISLEV 22 14 KISLEV 23 15 KISLEV 24 16 KISLEV THANKSGIVING 9:30am - 10:15am Hatchala 5:30pm - 8:00pm Social Action No Kivvun 9:00 am Torah Study 9:30am - 12:00pm Kadima Committee Office Closed (Gr K-7) 7:00pm Choir Rehearsal Office Closed 7:30 pm Erev Shabbat 9:30am - 10:30am Rabbi's Book Club 10:30am Education Commit- tee Meeting 4:00 pm Interfaith Thanksgiv- ing Service Trinity Lutheran Church Centerbrook

25 17 KISLEV 26 18 KISLEV 27 28 20 KISLEV 29 21 KISLEV 30 22 KISLEV

No Kivvun 7:00 pm Choir Rehearsal 4:15pm - 5:45pm Kadima 7:00pm Erxecutive Committee 7:00 pm Erev Shabbat with (Gr 4-7) Piano 6:00pm - 7:30pm Adult B'nai Mitzvah

22

23 Kislev- DECEMBER 23 Tevet, 2018 5779

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY

1 23 KISLEV 9:00 am Torah Study

2 24 KISLEV 3 25 KISLEV 4 26 KISLEV 5 27 KISLEV 6 28 KISLEV 7 29 KISLEV 8 30 KISLEV CHANUKAH CHANUKAH CHANUKAH CHANUKAH CHANUKAH CHANUKAH CHANUKAH

9:30am - 10:15am Hatchala 6:00pm Communications 5:45pm Facilities Meeting 4:15pm - 5:45pm Kadima 6:00pm Non-Dairy Potluck No 2nd Saturday Service 9:30am - 12:00pm Kadima Committee 7:00pm Choir Rehearsal (Gr 4-7) Dinner 9:00 am Torah Study (Gr K-7) 6:00pm - 7:30pm Adult B'nai 7:00pm Hanukkah Service and Mitzvah Celebration

9 1 TEVET 10 2 TEVET 11 3 TEVET 12 4 TEVET 13 5 TEVET 14 6 TEVET 15 7 TEVET CHANUKAH CHANUKAH 3:00 pm SSKP Board Meeting 12:00pm - 1:00pm Lunch and 4:15pm - 5:45pm Kadima 7:30 pm Human Rights Shabbat No 2nd Saturday Service this 7:00 pm Choir Rehearsal (Gr 4-7) Learn Service and Program month 9:30am - 12:00pm Kadima 12:45pm - 6:00pm Red Cross 7:00pm Board of Directors Blood Drive 6:00pm - 7:30pm Adult B'nai 9:00 am Torah Study (Gr K-7) Mitzvah Baking 9:30am Books & Bagels with Irene Silvers reading from her book, Shrinkwrapped

16 8 TEVET 17 9 TEVET 18 10 TEVET 19 11 TEVET 20 12 TEVET 21 13 TEVET 22 14 TEVET

9:30am - 10:15am Hatchala 7:00pm Choir Rehearsal 4:15pm - 5:45pm Kadima 7:30 pm Erev Shabbat Service 9:00 am Torah Study 9:30am - 12:00pm Kadima (Gr 4-7) (Gr K-7) 12:00pm - 1:30pm Gesher (Grades 8-9) 4:00pm - 6:00pm CBSRZ at Chester Meal Site (UCC)

23 15 TEVET 24 16 TEVET 25 17 TEVET 26 18 TEVET 27 19 TEVET 28 20 TEVET 29 21 TEVET CHRISTMAS EVE CHRISTMAS DAY No Kivvun No Kivvun 7:00 pm Executive Committee 7:30 pm Erev Shabbat Service 9:00 am Torah Study Office closed

30 22 TEVET 31 23 TEVET No Kivvun New Year's Eve

23 55 East Kings Highway PO Box 438 Chester, CT 06412

The Whole Megillah may be viewed in color on the web at www.cbsrz.org

Many thanks to these recent Oneg sponsors

Ellen & Len Nodelman

Brad & Lori Jubelirer

Maxine Klein & David Zeleznik

Ruth Levy and Stephen Nardine

Phil and Susan Fine

Shelly Sprague and Stephanie Arbige

Doreen & Jon Joslow