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april 2017/nisan-iyar 5777 a publication of United jewish federation of Volume 19, Number 2 Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien Cocktails, Dinner, Legacy, Holocaust Through the and Laughs Lens of Cinema An Evening with Schoke JFS UJF Holds Annual Yom Hashoah Program The annual gala of the Solomon will perform his By Sharon Franklin the Jewish experience in film. Elayne and James Schoke stand-up comedy based on the United Jewish Federation He is adjunct professor of Jewish Family Service, An show. “His performance is a of Greater Stamford, New cinema at Yeshiva University Evening with Schoke JFS, to laugh-filled hour of everybody Canaan and Darien will and has also taught at Fair- be held on Wednesday, May you know, or have known, and hold a community wide com- leigh Dickinson University, 10, at 5:30 pm, at the Italian some you want to forget, but memorative Yom Hashoah Hebrew Union College, The Center, has a new format, com- can’t. Be prepared to laugh program on Sunday, April 23. Jewish Theological Seminary, bining a four-decade legacy until you cry!” said Lynn Saltz, The program will be held at Kean University, Queens Col- of honoring supporters with Schoke JFS marketing and Temple Beth El in Stamford lege and YIVO Institute for a celebration of the agency’s communications coordinator. at 4:30 pm. This year’s event Jewish Research. Goldman work across Fairfield County. Honoring a long-standing will be themed “A Commu- is founder of Ergo Media In lieu of a silent auction, Steve Solomon tradition, Schoke JFS will nity Wide Remembrance of Dr. Eric Goldman Inc., a New Jersey-based film this year’s celebration will offer the 38th Annual Mitzvah the Holocaust Through The distributor, specializing in welcome Steve Solomon, creator and Award to the Beldotti family and the Lens of the Cinema.” Jewish-oriented film. He has also been star of the two-time, award-winning 11th Annual Young Leadership Award The keynote speaker will be Dr. Eric on the faculty of the Wexner and Ru- Broadway comedy “My Mother’s Italian, to Mark Frank. Goldman, a Jewish film scholar and ed- derman fellowship programs, and is a My Father’s Jewish and I’m in Therapy.” See “Legacy” on page 2 ucator, who has written extensively on See “Holocaust” on page 8 “Lost” Indian Jews A Council for Us All Immigrating to Israel UJF Establishes Jewish Community By JNS staff ognized the Bnei Menashe as a lost Relations Council (JNS.org) – One hundred and two tribe and about 1,700 Bnei Menashe By Gail Rauner issues in the immediate term: immi- members of India’s Bnei Menashe members moved to Israel before the United Jewish Federation of Greater gration and community engagement community arrived in Israel in mid-Feb- Israeli government stopped giving Stamford, New Canaan and Darien with refugees, and combating antise- ruary, marking the latest group of so- them visas. The government later announced the official establishment mitic violence and vandalism (with the called “lost” Jews to make aliyah. reversed that policy, enabling Bnei of its new Jewish Community Rela- hope of addressing racist violence and Members of the Bnei Menashe Menashe immigration to resume. The tions Council on March 9. Like JCRCs vandalism in all of its forms). After the community claim to descend from Jews latest Bnei Menashe immigrants come throughout North America, the Stam- meeting, JCRC member Ann Liebergall banished from ancient Israel to India from the northeastern Indian state of ford, New Canaan and Darien JCRC will of New Canaan commented, “When we in the 8th century B.C. Their immigra- Mizoram and will be the first members serve as the primary public relations first discussed establishing the council tion is organized by Shavei Israel, a of their community to make aliyah since arm for the Jewish community, with last year, we could not have known Jerusalem-based nonprofit that calls January 2014. particular focus on: interfaith and how relevant and needed it would be itself “the only Jewish organization “Over the course of the coming inter-community relations, Israel advo- in 2017.” today that is actively reaching out to year, with God’s help, we will bring a cacy, relations with political figures, law The JCRC is made up of volunteers ‘lost Jews’ in an effort to facilitate their total of more than 700 Bnei Menashe enforcement and the media, and tikkun from the area and is chaired by Peter return [to Israel].” immigrants to Israel – the largest-ever olam projects (repairing the world). Lilienthal of Stamford. A full-time staff In 2005, then-Sephardi Chief Rabbi airlift in a single year,” Michael Freund, At the JCRC’s first meeting on March director will begin working with Lilien- of Israel Shlomo Amar officially rec- See “Indian” on page 18 6, the group chose to focus on two See “Council” on page 2

Candle Bits & Pieces Passover Professional Adult Voices & Lighting 2 6 14 Support 16 Volunteers 18 Views 18

Shabbat Across Stamford Community is what it’s all about. Once again, the Jewish communities of Stamford, New Canaan and Darien gathered together to celebrate Shabbat on March 3 at Shabbat Across Stamford. See page 5 for more details. L-r: Rebekah Raz, UJF VP; Ellen Weber, immediate past president; Ricky Arbron, UJF president; Sharon Franklin, UJF director of community campaign; Nan Gordon, JEEP chair; and Linda Spilka, Shabbat Across Stamford chair. 2 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ APRIL 2017 CEO Message What Really Happened in Sweden By James A. Cohen stand. There are many ways that we can act in a posi- comes soon. I am very proud that Federation has By the time this edition of The tive fashion to serve as a bulwark against this bigotry. launched this important initiative. I look forward New Jewish Voice goes to print, First, we must demand leadership and appropriate to sharing more news about the JCRC’s activities in Sweden’s brief moment in the language from our elected officials. Second, we coming months. spotlight of the American media must support organizations that speak out against I have said many times in recent weeks that I am will have become a memory. But these acts, whether these organizations be Jewish or glad my grandmother is no longer living, because I would like to resurrect this sponsored by any other segment of the community. the rise of antisemitism and the viral verbiage being tangential moment in history to Perhaps, most importantly, we can rely on our newly used against Jews would have killed her. I owe it to raise a different point. One thing established Jewish Community Relations Council to her, and we all owe it to all who have come before that is actually taking place in build relationships with all segments of society to us, not to stand still, but to speak up and put a stop Sweden is unfortunately being make sure that relief from this unfortunate episode to this nonsense now. replicated here in the United James Cohen, States: a rise in antisemitic acts. UJF CEO Malmö (the third largest city in Sweden, well- Legacy Continued from page 1 known to readers of the Wallender mystery series) has The Beldotti family (James, Jim, Michael, Chris, seen incidents of antisemitism increase by threefold Lisa, Amy, Mike Jr. Tina, Lucas, Zack, Maxwell and in the last two years. This in and of itself is troubling. Grace) are life-long residents of Stamford and, When you add this statistic to increases across Europe along with the Beldotti bakery, the only family and the very troubling antisemitic acts taking place owned kosher bakery in Stamford, are household in the United States in the first quarter of 2017, the names to many across the community. Three picture painted is even worse. Today, as I write these generations of Beldottis have contributed to the words, nine more Jewish Community Centers were growth of the bakery, with brothers Michael and subjected to bomb threats. Chris leading parts of a business that began when As a community, we simply cannot allow this to Michael and his father, James, purchased DeLite bakery more than 30 years ago. The Beldotti family has supported synagogues, soup kitchens, youth athletic leagues and public schools with generous Thank You contributions. Schoke JFS clients have benefitted Thank you to Hildi Todrin of Crane Song Pho- from Beldotti donations for three decades, as well tography, who volunteered as photographer for the as the family’s participation in the Russian Immi- December 4 United Jewish Federation Soiree. UJF grant Absorption Program. regrets not crediting Todrin’s work for her photos, Frank was born in Charles- The Beldotti family which appeared on page 17 in the February/March ton, SC, and grew up in Flori- issue of The New Jewish Voice. da, where his leadership skills Awards, a New York City getaway with tickets to a became apparent through his play, a pair of fold-up bikes, and a home dinner involvement in camp and syn- for 10 prepared by Columbus Park Trattoria. The agogue activities. In his senior comedy stand-up will follow and the evening will CANDLE LIGHTING year in high school, Frank was conclude with dessert. The evening is co-chaired a participant on the March of by Liz Kitay and Meryl Japha, and the live auction TIMES the Living, which he said was a is chaired by Sandy Speter. March 24...... 6:53 pm defining experience in his com- General tickets include the dinner, show and mitment to Jewish causes. Frank dessert for $180. Show tickets will include a dessert March 31...... 7 pm moved to Stamford in 2010 and Mark Frank reception for $65 per person. Those interested in April 7...... 7:08 pm in April 2014, he joined Calibre attending should visit www.ctjfs.org to reserve tickets. April 10...... 7:11 pm One’s New York City office, a global retained search To discuss donations for the evening, contact April 11...... after 8:12 pm firm serving the technology industry. Frank became Lisa Rich, Schoke JFS donor relations coordinator, involved with Schoke JFS through Jewish Twenties at 203-921-4161 or [email protected]. April 14...... 7:15 pm and Thirties and joined its committee in 2011, and Schoke Jewish Family Service is a recipient agency of April 16...... 7:17 pm continues to serve. Frank joined the board of Schoke United JewishDry FederationCleaning, of Laundry, Greater Stamford, Flat work New Canaan Pick up / Delivery JFS in 2015 and was nominated to participate in the and Darien. April 17...... after 8:19 pm All Work Done On Premises April 21...... 7:23 pm Behrend Institute for Leadership in 2017. The evening will begin at 5:30 pm with appetizers Frank Policastro/Owner Continued(203) from 323-0507 page 1 April 28...... 7:30 pm and cocktails, followed by a kosher Italian dinner, Council67 Crescent Street [email protected] May 5...... 7:38 pm presentation of awards to the honorees, and a thalStamford, and the CT committee06905 inwww.crescentcleaners.co late April. “We have muchm May 12...... 7:45 pm live auction. Items will include tickets to the Tony work to do and already have made wonderful contacts in the community, noted Lilienthal. “It speaks to the wonderful vitality of our community and the desire ofHappy so many to make it even better.” The JCRC came to fruition following a recom- mendation Chanukah! to the UJF Board of Directors from the Advisory Council, a body convened by UJF three times a year,Dry Cleaning,made up of Laundry, lay leaders Flat fromwork across the community. UJFPick President up / Deliver Rickyy Arbron noted, “I am gratefulAll toWork the DoneAdvisory On CouncilPremises for studying the issues and recognizing the need for a JCRC. I Frank Policastro/Owner (203) 323-0507 am67 Crescent confident Street that its work [email protected] be highly successfulm andStamford, beneficial CT 06905 to the entirewww.crescentcleaners.co community. Plansm are already underway for several activities which we will be reporting out to the community soon.” In a recent statement, UJF CEO James Cohen thanked the funders who are making the JCRC possible:Happy “I express heartfelt thanks to Eleanor and Mort Lowenthal, the estate of Ronald M. Gross, The Louis New J. Year!Kuriansky Foundation, The Mann Family FoundationDry andCleaning, a generous Laundry, anonymous Flat work donor for helping to establishPick the up Jewish / Deliver Communityy Relations Council. TheirAll Work vision Done will benefit On Premises our community for generations to come.” FrankFor Policastro/Owner more information on the JCRC, (203)contact 323-0507 Cohen 67 Crescent Street [email protected] atStamford, [email protected]. CT 06905 www.crescentcleaners.com

Happy Passover!

Dry Cleaning, Laundry, Flat work Pick up / Delivery All Work Done On Premises

Frank Policastro/Owner (203) 323-0507 67 Crescent Street [email protected] Stamford, CT 06905 www.crescentcleaners.com april 2017 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 3 COMMUNITY NEWS Bret Stephens to Address Jewish High School Gala Dr. Andrew and Elizabeth Lustbader to be Honored On Sunday, April 30, support- observations about the Middle the first parlor meetings in living ers of the Jewish High School of East in simple and compelling rooms like my own, when this Connecticut will hear from Bret words,” added Erickson. “The talk school was just a dream,” observed Stephens, a member of The Wall on April 30 will blend his real life Randie Weseley, the co-chair of Street Journal’s Editorial Board as a Jerusalem resident and his this year’s Jewish High School and writer of “Global View,” the up-to-the-minute 2017 insights.” Gala. “Their commitment to the paper’s foreign affairs column. Erickson observed that, “Bret’s growth and well-being of young “We are thrilled to have Bret focus on the imperative to create adults is exemplified in Andy’s join our school’s annual Gala,” and sustain policies that promote long career in both pediatrics and commented Geoffrey Erickson, a safe and secure Israel is well- psychology and in Elizabeth’s high chairman of the Jewish High aligned with the focus of JHSC. His school counseling career. School Board of Trustees. talk will resonate with the hearts “Andy was an active founder “When not much older than Bret Stephens and the heads of all of us in the and serves on our Board of Trust- our seniors, Bret became the audience on April 30.” ees. Elizabeth has counseled our editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Post. Since then, he At the Gala champagne brunch, juniors and graduating seniors as has won a Pulitzer Prize for commentary, served as the school will also recognize two they pursue next steps in their ac- The Wall Street Journal’s deputy editorial page editor leaders in youth advocacy and the ademic journey,” said Weseley. “My and has authored a book on the dangerous tilt to successful growth of young adults, Elizabeth and Dr. Andrew Lustbader own family learned first-hand of isolationism in American foreign leadership policy. Dr. Andrew and Elizabeth Lustbader. Elizabeth’s empathy and insights “Unabashed and direct, Bret Stephens calls out “Andy and Elizabeth were with us on day one, at as our daughter, Talia, was a student at JHSC.” The Jewish High School Gala brunch will take place at 11 am on Sunday, April 30, at Temple Beth “Celebrating Unity” at Temple Sinai El in Stamford. Sponsorship opportunities and tickets Temple Sinai of Stamford are available through the school website (www.jhsct. will be “Celebrating Unity” org) or by contacting Sarah Rich (203-357-0850 or at its annual gala on Satur- [email protected]). day, April 29, beginning at The Jewish High School of Connecticut is a recipient 6:30 pm, at Temple Sinai. agency of United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, This year’s gala will honor New Canaan and Darien. two cornerstones of the community, Arlene and Carl Rosen, and will also cele- Deadlines for brate honorary gala hosts Stacey and Todd Palker. The evening will include articles cocktails and dinner, silent The deadlines for the next three issues of The and live auctions, and en- New Jewish Voice are: tertainment. The annual Friday, March 24...... May gala raises funds to sup- Friday, April 28 ...... June port spiritual, educational Arlene and Carl Rosen (Photos by Anna Stacey and Todd Palker Thursday, May 25...... July/August and social programming Sawin Photography) Send New Jewish Voice article submissions to for Temple Sinai and the pated in the temple’s Amidah Leadership Initiative, Sandy Golove at [email protected] marked “Stamford community at large. a leadership development program, and Stacey is Voice” in the subject line. Expect an acknowledge- Arlene and Carl Rosen, members of Temple See “Unity” on page 4 ment; please re-send if you do not receive one. Sinai since 1980, have been actively involved with the temple and the greater Jewish community for many years. Arlene has served in many capacities at Temple Sinai, including most recently as president of the Board of Trustees. In the community, Arlene is currently serving as a UJF trustee. Carl also served as president of Temple Sinai’s board, and he is the co-founder of Temple Sinai’s annual Mitzvah Day. Carl has been a trustee of UJF and is currently a vice president at Schoke Jewish Family Service. He was the recipient of the JFS Mitzvah Award in 2012 and the Family Champion Award of the Connecticut Council of Family Service Agencies in 2014. Stacey and Todd Palker have been members of Temple Sinai since 2014. The Palkers said they were drawn to the temple through the eyes of their two young children as they witnessed them engage with Cantor Micah Morgovsky and Rabbi Jay TelRav at Tot Shabbat services. Stacey and Todd have both partici-

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• 203.504.8888 • • 203.890.9999 • Continued from page 3 BULL’S HEAD PLAZA - 59 HIGH RIDGE RD., 927 HIGH RIDGE RD., Unity STAMFORD, CT 06905 STAMFORD, CT 06905 currently a member of the Board of of their time to our community and tabouligrill.com judysbarandkitchen.com Trustees. In the greater community, we are grateful for their leadership. Stacey was the co-chair of UJF Super The Palkers represent the Stamford “ ” "...the best Israeli food outside of Israel." pure Americana! Sunday and teaches art appreciation Jewish community’s next generation. at Gan Yeladim. Todd, a pediatrician Their energy and joy in volunteering in Stamford, is on the Olami task force within our temple and the community and is medical director of Sarah Walker create tremendous excitement for and the JCC day camp. our future.” Gloria Skigen, Temple Sinai presi- A limited number of seats are still Chanukah Greetings from dent said, “We are so excited to have available for Temple Sinai’s Celebrating Judith Roll, Chef/Owner the opportunity to celebrate and Unity Gala. To reserve seats, or to place honor Arlene and Carl Rosen and a tribute ad in honor of the Rosens or the tremendous contributions they the Palkers, or for more information have made to our congregation and about the gala, contact Shelly Welfeld the Stamford Jewish community. Both at Temple Sinai at 203-322-1649 or Arlene and Carl have given generously [email protected].

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tabouligrill.com judysbarandkitchen.com “ ” "...the best Israeli food outside of Israel." pure Americana! april 2017 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 5 Stamford Community Gathers for Shabbat Across Stamford On March 3, the Stamford Jewish community gathered together for the third annual Shabbat Across Stamford dinner, which included Friday night services and a Shabbat dinner. Tizmoret, a Queens College a cappella group, entertained the crowd with both Jewish and popular songs. Almost 300 people attended the communal Shabbat experience, this year held at the Stamford Athletic Club. Stamford was one of the first cities to hold a Friday night Shabbat experience open to all backgrounds and Jewish affiliations. The evening started with candle lighting, led by event Chair Linda Spilka. Following the candle light- ing, guests could pick between two services: an Orthodox service, led by Rabbi Daniel Cohen of Agudath Shalom and Rabbi Eli Kohl of Young Israel, and a progressive service led by Rabbi Joshua Hammerman of Temple Beth El, Rabbi Jay TelRav Guests gathered together for a community candle lighting. of Temple Sinai and Rabbi Mark Golub of the Chavurat Aytz Chayim, govsky of Temple Sinai. of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and this program or UJF, contact James Co- along with Cantors Magda Fishman Shabbat Across Stamford was orga- Darien, and co-sponsored by the Board hen at 203-321-1373 or Sharon Franklin of Temple Beth El and Micah Mor- nized by the United Jewish Federation of Rabbis. For more information about at [email protected]. National Inclusion Project Partners with Stamford JCC The National Inclusion Project has summer experience. young people with disabilities and the world organizations looking to become inclusive partnered with the Jewish Community Research shows evidence that the around them. By driving the movement for or to enhance their inclusive programs. For Center of Stamford to create an inclu- Let’s ALL Play model helps children social inclusion in after-school programs, more information on the National Inclusion sive environment where children with with disabilities improve self-esteem, summer camps and community based Project and to help ensure no child sits and without disabilities can play, learn social skills and confidence, while activities, children of all abilities learn, on the sidelines, visit the website www. and laugh together. As part of the part- those without disabilities improve play and laugh together. Over the last 12 inclusionproject.org. nership, the National Inclusion Project their leadership, problem solving and years, the Project has provided training, The Jewish Community Center is a provides the Let’s ALL Play program empathy skills. The model encourages curriculum and support to YMCAs, JCCs, recipient agency of United Jewish Federation model, training, expertise, annual Pow- children to come together and partic- Boys and Girls Clubs, 4H, CampFire USA, of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and er of Play Conference and a network of ipate in recreational activities such as kids museums, zoos and other community Darien. inclusion experts ready to problem solve swimming, arts and crafts, community and share best practices on ensuring that service, physical fitness and more. It no child sits on the sidelines. also allows children with and without The JCC is one of the few organiza- disabilities to create friendships that Give Your Child the Gift of Time tions that the National Inclusion Project may not have been possible in other has chosen to partner with for a second parts of their lives. A Transitional Kindergarten Where Young Minds Take Root year. “We are excited to continue our “The JCC of Stamford believes in partnership with the JCC in order to welcoming all, regardless of age, faith, make sure that no child has to sit on ethnicity, need or ability. This belief the sidelines,” says Nick Leisey, National helps make us a strong and supportive Inclusion Project executive director. community, and upholds the Jewish Hand in Hand, a division of the JCC’s values of welcoming guests, kindness, summer program called O-la-mi, offers respect and communal responsibility,” an inclusive summer experience for said JCC CEO Eric H. Koehler. “We are rising third-eighth graders with a variety excited and honored to work with the of needs, including, but not limited to, National Inclusion Project in support- communication and learning differ- ing and growing our Hand in Hand ences, ADD/ADHD, social anxiety, sen- program, where all children of diverse sory motor integration challenges and needs and abilities can build positive those on the spectrum. The mission of relationships, and see the value in each the program is to improve each child’s other and in our community as a whole.” ability to develop positive relationships About the National Inclusion Project: The and make social connections in their National Inclusion Project was co-founded community and with peers, as well as in 2003 by entertainer Clay Aiken and to create an enjoyable inclusionary serves to bridge the gap that exists between

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FILE: CRML_170104_NJV LAYOUT: Size Change SIZE: 4.9167 x 7.875” CLIENT: Carmel Academy PUBS: New Jewish Voice PAGE #: 1 REV #: 0 DATE: January 2017 6 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ APRIL 2017 bits and pieces By Sandy Golove Jacqueline Herman, Community Jeffrey Lotstein, Leslie Lotstein, Anne Marie Segal on the loss of her To submit infor- Leadership Award Richard Lotstein and Steve Lotstein on grandmother, Ruth Van Beek. mation to Bits and Hillary Isaacs, Gan Yeladim Award the loss of their mother, Gloria Lotstein. Sandy Shapiro on the loss of his Pieces, call 203-912- Doris and Ron Warmflash, Lamp- Arthur Mostel, Linda Kucinski, Rob mother, Malka Shapiro. 9945, or e-mail me at lighter Award Mostel and Carolyn Weiser on the loss of Walter Shuchatowitz, Phyllis Land- [email protected]. Congregation Agudath Sholom his wife and their mother, Stella Mostel. er, Avrom Shuchatowitz and Robert MAZEL TOV TO honorees: Doni Perl on the loss of his grandmother. Shuchatowitz on the loss of his wife GROWING FAMILIES Daniella and Mitchel Balsam, Young Steven Posner on the loss of his and their mother, Deena Shuchatowitz. Francine and Av- Leadership Award mother, Laura Posner. Betty Young, Denise Teicher and ishay Amichai on the birth of a son, Barbara and Larry z”l Miller, Chai Rabbi Liz Rolle on the loss of her David Young on the loss of her husband Leo Amichai, and a daughter, Leni Award father, Alan Paul Rolle. and their father, Sol Young. Amichai; grandparents are Jeannie and Dean Schuckman, Community Ser- Nofie Rosovsky on the loss of her John Zimmerman on the loss of his Irwin Rifkin. vice Award father, Harold Schachter. mother, Beverly Sladon Zimmerman. Shanna and Carlos Bermeo on the Sandi and Stuart Waldstreicher, birth of a son, Luca Stephen Bermeo; Guests of Honor great-grandmother is Faye Manger. MAZEL TOV TO B’NAI MITZVAH D’VAR TORAH Phyllis and Gary Gladstein on the Ela Dynner, daughter of Heather birth of a grandson, Asher Coby Cohen. and Glenn Dynner INSIGHTS FROM OUR CLERGY Leora and Yaakov Hauptman on the Shira Haron, daughter of Rachel and birth of a son; grandparents are Darona Dan Haron; grandparents are Linda Parashat Vayakel/Pekudai/Shabbat HaChodesh - March 25 and Rabbi Tzvi Bernstein, and Ruth and and Larry Rezak By Rabbi Ita Paskind also detail the sewing of the priests’ Dave Hauptman; and great-grandpar- Atara Ivri, daughter of Maruja and Are you a list-maker? many garments, so they could serve ents are Sarey and Samuel Bernstein Allon Ivri I am. I use the Notes app on my in the Mishkan. and Debby Steinhorn. Adam Nack, son of Robin Novak phone, drop appointments on my Lists are now floating around our Danielle and Ramsey Mellette on Nack; grandmother is Barbara Novak calendar for specific tasks and have at homes, as we clean and shop and invite the birth of a daughter, Maise Liv Talia Raich, daughter of Risa and least five “Google Docs” open at any and plan and kasher and cook for Pesach. Mellette; grandparents are Jodi and Steven Raich given time. If you’re a list-maker, you get It’s the ultimate holiday for lists. David Kaplowitz. Allison Yakubovich, daughter of it. Obsessing over the smallest details Like the lists that keep me sane, the Deborah and Omry Netzer on the Shana and Robert Yakubovich keeps us sane. It allows us to be pro- details in our parashat this Shabbat and birth of a son, Adar Netzer; grandpar- CONDOLENCES ductive, knowing that we won’t forget those related to Pesach aren’t trivial. ents are Lieba and Steven Lander. Philip Anfang on the loss of his anything as long as we check our lists. They serve a purpose. In the Torah, Rebecca and Yerucham Pliner on the father, Samuel Anfang. Details and lists are on the Jewish the Mishkan was built exactly as God birth of a granddaughter; grandparents Rachel Bahar on the loss of her mind now, as we finish reading the instructed, and it created the sacred are Sandy Weiner and Marc Weiner. brother, David Ezekiel. Book of Exodus this Shabbat. It’s a space necessary for the Israelites and Alyssa and Robert Smith on the birth Stuart Berger, Andrew Berger, Jon- double Parasha, Vayakel/Pekudai, and God to deepen their relationship. And of a son, Justin Ryan Smith; grandpar- athan Berger and Jennifer Yeger on even a casual read will convince you the details that drive us nuts as Pesach ents are Eileen and Harold Orlow. the loss of his wife and their mother, that God is also into details. In these draws closer enable us to reflect on Miriam and Josh Sperberg on the Sharon Berger. portions, the Israelites put into action our history as an oppressed people birth of a son, David Liam Sperberg; Bruce Blasnik on the loss of his what God had already instructed them and commit ourselves to rooting out grandparents are Linda and Jack Leh- father, Donald Blasnik. – to gather different materials and to oppression wherever it lies today. rer and Orit and Julien Sperber. Rabbi Asher Bush on the loss of his fashion them into the Mishkan, the Long live the list! Tara and Adam Weitz on the birth of mother, Annette Radley. Tabernacle, and all of the fixings need- Rabbi Ita Paskind is the spiritual leader twin grandsons, Milo Shai Weitz and Asher Judy Cahn on the loss of her mother, ed for its operation. These portions at Congregation Beth El in Norwalk. Reilly Weitz; grandfather is Gary Weitz. Helen Altschuler. Elie and Eli Wolfe on the birth of David M. Cohen on the loss of his a son; grandparents are Barbara and brother, Louis Cohen. New Around Town Ron Ashkenas. Ilan Dan on the loss of his brother, Amanda Hirsch Geffner, M.A., L.C.S.W., Part-time Schoke MAZEL TOV Yaakov Doron. Alix and David Eben for being hon- Elaine Finkelstein on the loss of her Jewish Family Service Clinical Social Worker ored by Carmel Academy. father-in-law, Meyer Finkelstein. A graduate of the National Institute for the Psychothera- Michael Feldstein for being honored Tamar Gershberg, Ben Gershberg, pies in 2001, Amanda Hirsch Geffner has practiced relational at the Chevra Kadisha Annual Dinner. Michele Gershberg and Oren Gersh- psychotherapy with children and adults since 1997. Geffner Rory and Steven Kaufman on the berg on the loss of her husband and has been facilitating bereavement, caregiver and other sup- engagement of their daughter, Ali their father, David Gershberg. port groups at Family Centers/Center for HOPE in Darien Kaufman, to Jason Jacobson, son of Shari Goodstein and Vivian Goodstein since spring 2014. She specializes in trauma (EMDR) and Joann and Scott Jacobson; grandpar- on the loss of their father, Sol Goodstein. spirituality/mindfulness. Along with offering writing work- ents are Flora and Carl Kaufman. Janet Jones and Glenn Ostriker on shops for adults and children in the community, Geffner Sally Klapper, daughter of Elissa and the loss of their father, Dr. Paul Ostriker. was a founding co-editor of Psychoanalytic Perspectives: A Phillip Klapper, on completing her Frieda Knopf, Alex Goldblum and Journal of Innovation and Integration, as well as having been basic training in the IDF and beginning Irving Goldblum on the loss of their published in Psychoanalytic Dialogues. “I am delighted to be her army service. sister, Mildred Schifreen. joining the JFS family and look forward to this opportunity Gayle and Howard Rothman on the David Kweskin and Patricia Zisman on to foster creativity and engage with chesed in community,” Amanda Hirsch engagement of their daughter, Rachel the loss of their mother, Minerva Kweskin. commented Geffner. Geffner Rothman, to Michael Sackman, son of Family of Libby Libo. Beth and Stuart Sackman, of North Shelley Leibowitz on the loss of her Brandeis Women’s Theater Event Caldwell, NJ. mother, Phyllis Ginsberg. The Brandeis Women’s Committee will attend “Sweet Charity” at the Ethel Chabad of Stamford honorees: Naomi Lieberman and Aryn Gross- Kweskin Theatre at 1349 Newfield Ave.,Stamford, on Sunday, June 11, at noon. Doron, Liat and Zev Feller, Friend- man on the loss of her husband and The cost is $40, which includes lunch. Reservations can be made by calling Betty ship Circle Teen Award her father, Samuel Lieberman. Roberts at 203-322-3735. UJF Tribute Cards are a wonderful way to connect with your Please support our advertisers... family and friends and mark any occasion while supporting the Tell them you saw their ad here in extraordinary work of UJF. To send a tribute, go to www.ujf.org. april 2017 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 7 “Improv on Ice” Comedy Fund-raiser for JCC Tzahal Shalom On Saturday, April 1, the celebrated improv troupe a sense of extended family. Improv on Ice are Marcy Kurzman and Lisa Popper. Chicago City Limits will appear at the Stamford Last year alone, the officers who participated in Serving on the event committee are Alix Eben, Hope Jewish Community Center for an evening billed as the program made connections with more than 1,000 Levensohn, Ilyse Lyman and Dana Roth. “Improv on Ice.” The event follows in the footsteps adults and children, and organizers expect to reach Tickets to Improv on Ice are $75 per person or of “Cocktails and Comedy,” which for the past four an even greater audience with this year’s program, $750 to reserve a table for 10. Those attending must years has raised funds to benefit the JCC’s Tzahal which is funded entirely through the generosity of in- be 18 years or older. Cocktails (for those 21 and Shalom Program. dividuals in the community. The annual fund-raising older) and dairy dessert will be served, and dietary Now in its 39th year in Stamford, Tzahal Shalom, event was created to give the broader community an laws will be observed. Doors will open at 8:30 pm, organized by the JCC in cooperation with the Friends opportunity to experience a connection with Israel. with the show beginning at 9 pm. of the Israeli Defense Forces, brings active-duty Israeli Chicago City Limits is New York City’s longest-run- Those wishing to attend should register online at officers to Stamford each year for a cross-cultural ning improvised comedy show, with more than 10,000 stamfordjcc.org, in person at the JCC welcome desk, encounter with the community. The primary goal of performances. Founded in 1977 in Chicago by ac- or by calling 203-322-7900. For more information, the program is to deepen mutual understanding and tors participating in the workshop program at The contact Nancy Schiffman at 203-487-0941 or nschiff- strengthen the unity of the Jewish people. Americans Second City, the group has been performing in New [email protected], or visit stamfordjcc.org. and Israelis are given opportunities to learn about York and around the country for more than 30 years. The Jewish Community Center is a recipient agency of each other and their societies, person-to-person, Co-chairing this year’s Tzahal Shalom visit are Stel- United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford New Canaan while potentially building lasting relationships and la Cohen, Karen Cowit and Susie Gold. Co-chairing and Darien. Joy and Celebration at Chabad Gala On February 26, Chabad of Stamford held its annual celebration dinner honoring people in the community. This year, the event also included a concert with Broadway star Dudu Fisher, a native Israe- li. More than 500 people attended the dinner and concert. Congratulations were extended to honor- Broadway star Dudu Fisher ees Jacqueline Herman, wowed the crowd at the Community Leadership Chabad of Stamford annual Award; Hillary Isaacs, dinner. Gan Yeladim Award; Zev, Doron and Liat Feller, Friendship Circle Teen Award; and Ron and Doris Warmflash, Lamplighter Award. L-r: Hillary Isaacs, Josh Hurwitz, Sondra Mehl, Jacqueline Herman, Doron Feller, Zach Bittker, Zev Feller and Liat Feller. (Photos by Aviva Maller)

During her speech, Hillary Isaacs, recipient of the Gan Yeladim award, acknowledged the morahs of Gan Yeladim Early Childhood Center whom she works with daily. Standing (l-r): Sonia Avny, Debra Bloomgarden, Julie Gerowitz, Margarita Kunin and Lieba Lander. Brandeis Women’s Spring Luncheon The Brandeis Women’s Committee upcoming annual Spring Luncheon will be held on Thursday, June 8, at noon, at the Rolling Hills Country Club in Wilton. Blossom Katz will be the honoree. Reser- vations can be made by calling Gloria Mehlman at 203-322-3059. Best wishes for a joyous Passover!

www.jhsfc.org ÊVisit www.ujf.org, facebook.com/stamfordFederation, or tweet UJF at ujfstamford 8 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ APRIL 2017 Jewish Superstars of TBE Meditative Shabbat By Steve Lander spirituality within the context Boxing The community is invited of the traditional liturgy led to a Meditative Shabbat ser- by Cantor Fishman in a mu- By Elissa Kaplan In addition, Silver has been a con- vice on Friday, April 7, in the sical service along with Rabbi “In the 1920s, the most famous sultant and on air commentator for social hall at Temple Beth El Joshua Hammerman. At the Jew in America was not a scientist, documentaries on boxing for ESPN, in Stamford. The service will conclusion of the service, entertainer, author, or Supreme Court PBS, HBO, the History Channel, A & include a pre-service prepara- Tinkham will speak about justice. The most famous Jewish per- E, and Madison Square Garden-TV. His tory yoga session at 6:30 pm her new book. son in America during ‘The Roaring articles about boxing have appeared in with TBE congregant Pamela Tinkham, MSW, LCSW, Twenties’ was a world cham- The Ring Magazine, The New Tinkham. Chairs will be set RYT®, is a licensed clinical pion boxer named Benny York Times, Boxing Monthly up so that participants can do Pamela Tinkham social worker, a somatic Leonard.” Thus begins a new and boxing web sites. He has chair yoga if preferred or use therapist and a yoga-psy- book of Jewish social history, promoted boxing, been an the chair for balance. All are welcome chotherapist. She holds a master’s “Stars in The Ring: Jewish inspector with the New York and encouraged to attend. degree in social work from Fordham Champions in The Golden State Athletic Commission, Tinkham will also lead the group University where she graduated with Age of Boxing.” The Jewish and is a member of the In- through a chakra meditation, which honors, and a bachelor of arts degree Historical Society of Fairfield ternational Boxing Research is also included in her book in dance from Butler University. She County invites the communi- Organization. Currently, “Healing Trauma From the Inside also holds national certifications ty to meet the book’s author, Silver serves as an advisor to Out: Practices from the East and West.” from The Yoga Alliance, the Ameri- Mike Silver, an internationally the Hank Kaplan Boxing Ar- Cantor Magda Fishman contributed can College of Sports Medicine and known boxing historian, who Mike Silver chives at Brooklyn College. to Chapter 23 and Chapter 29, which the American Council on Exercise. has been called the In The New York speaks about TBE and the Mind Body Tinkham runs her psychotherapy foremost authority Times’ April 3, 2016, Soul service that was offered in 2016. practice out of Stamford; further on the Golden Age Metro Section, Sam The main service at 7:30 pm will information about Tinkham can be of the Jewish boxer, Roberts wrote, “Mr. also aim toward an intensified Jewish found on www.PamelaTinkham.com. on Sunday, April Silver affectionately 30, at the Jewish recalls an era when Community Center, boxing rivaled base- 1035 Newfield Ave., ball in popularity, Murder at the Archives! Stamford. The pro- when Benny Leon- By Elissa Kaplan gram will start at 1:30 ard was ‘the first Jew- It was a dark and stormy night. On pm, and is free and ish-American pop February 25, members of the Jewish open to the public. The cover of “Stars in The Ring: Jewish culture icon’ and Historical Society of Fairfield County Refreshments will be Champions in The Golden Age of about which Philip and Jewish Twenties and Thirties, a served at 1 pm. Boxing.” Roth could write program of Schoke Jewish Family Ser- Silver has been with authority.” vice, gathered at the JHSFC Archives, involved with boxing for many years. In For more information or answers to 990 Hope St., to solve the murder 2004, he was the curator of an exhibit questions, contact the Jewish Historical mystery surrounding Chief Constable at The National Museum of American Society of Fairfield County at 203-359- Louis Drucker. Jewish History called “Sting Like A 2196 or [email protected] or visit its The murder mystery evening was Maccabee: The Golden Age of the website at http://jhsfc-ct.org. an intergenerational collaboration of American Jewish-Boxer.” In 2007, he The Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield these two groups – JHSFC and JTT. co-created a film and lecture series for County is a recipient agency of United Jew- Members of JHSFC created, produced The San Francisco Jewish Film Festival ish Federation of Greater Stamford, New and acted out the original murder Israel Emissary Yael Stolarsky interviewed called “Jews, Boxing and Hollywood.” Canaan and Darien. mystery. Members of JTT publicized Eva Weller. Tova Feldstein is shown in the event, created the atmosphere with background. RAEL IS DA lighting, music, sound effects, food N Y A K C and drink. Each guest who attended followed the murder became a prece- H A S M the event was given a role to play as dent setting case, described in the New I

P M a townsperson, such as blacksmith, York papers and recorded in law books Mishkan Israel doctor, baker, grocer, or witness at the covering Connecticut law. Drucker is trial. Props were also provided. buried in the Rodef Shalom cemetery in ב״ה Day Camp What was considered the amazing Fairfield. In addition, the New Canaan

Police Department has a monument to מ א ל In Stamford Since 1975 part of the evening was that the Drucker שכן י ש ר case really happened. Drucker, a Ger- Drucker on their grounds, because he man Jewish immigrant, was murdered died in the line of duty.  The Best Summer Place in Fair eld County for Boys & Girls! in the line of duty on Christmas Day According to Leah Schechter, sin-  Daily Hot Lunch & Snacks Provided 1887 in New Canaan. Drucker’s job gles outreach coordinator at Schoke  Transportation Throughout Fair eld County that day was to shut down an illegal Jewish Family Service and member of  Consistent Top Rating from State of CT Since 1975 tavern run out of Jacob Scheele’s house. JTT, “As I said that night and want to  Contact Us Today for Free Information on Exclusive Discounts & Promotions! When Drucker arrived at the Scheele repeat, the murder mystery night was an home, Scheele shot Drucker with a incredible coming together of so many Contact Us: double-barreled shotgun. The trial that See “Archives” on page 12 (203) 268-0740 — BPT/Trumbull/Fair eld (203) 428-4130 — Stamford/Greenwich (914) 595-4461 — Westchester County [email protected] www.MishkanIsrael.com

A break in the action for dinner.

Holocaust Continued from page 1 film reviewer for New Jersey’sThe Jewish will also have the opportunity to view Standard. Goldman was also a member the exhibit at the April 23 program at of the Educational Advisory Committee Temple Beth El. of the United States Holocaust Memo- Program Chair Barbara Webski rial Museum in Washington. noted, “We are pleased to have Dr. Eric Prior to the April 23 program, a Goldman speak at our program this reception will be held in early April at year. His presentation ‘The Holocaust the Government Center in downtown Through the Lens of the Cinema’ will Stamford featuring an exhibit of photos bring a unique approach to our annual and history of local Holocaust survi- Yom Hashoah program.” For more vors. The exhibit, designed by Sherry information about the program or the Steiner, will run through the beginning exhibit, contact Sharon Franklin at 203- of May. Members of the community 321-1373, ext. 109, or [email protected]. april 2017 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 9 Bi-Cultural Visits MoMath A group of about 40 Bi-Cultural Day School version of Lilith magazine. “I am delighted that my and Jewish heritage and values have always been an faculty and staff hit the road and headed for New Jewish connection and heritage paved the way for important part of my life.” York on January 16 to spend the day at the National me to join this exciting project. My background See “MoMath” on page 19 Museum of Mathematics – aka MoMath. Among other activities, staff members were asked to predict whether or not a square-wheeled tricycle would go Bi-Cultural Second-Graders Weigh in round in circles, based on a series of mathematical calculations. Then they got to test their predictions by riding square-wheeled tricycles. on a Makerspace Challenge “It wasn’t just fun. It was serious fun,” says Bi-Cul- tural’s Associate Principal for General Studies Rachel Haron, who organized the day. According to Haron, it was all part of an inno- At right: It’s been a year since Bi-Cultural Day School vative, experiential professional development day unveiled its Makerspace Lab, a national STEAM-based held at the nation’s first and only math museum. (science, technology, engineering, art and math) initiative Unlike most professional development programs that focuses on design, invention, creativity and critical in which teachers sit still (and silent), listening to thinking. Since it was introduced in February 2016, Bi- lectures, Haron describes the program as hands- Cultural’s Makerspace has been called a popular spot for on and, as such, “authentic.” Because MoMath is students, including (l-r) Eden Cohen, Sylvie Rosenberg all about interactive exhibits designed to stimulate and Ella Dulitz, who marvelled at the 3D printed creations inquiry, spark curiosity and reveal the wonders of they produced. mathematics and beyond. “Math is a playground,” says an enthusiastic Haron. “We wanted our team to discover different ways to make math come alive.” And by “team,” Heron doesn’t just mean math JHSC Leaders Attend Inaugural teachers. “People had to try things out and think of all the ways we really integrate math into our daily lives – Community School Conference because that’s ultimately the purpose of math: how Jewish High School of Connecticut’s education- met is attractive to both consumers and donors.” it’s incorporated into science, how artists use math, al and lay leaders attended the first Prizmah Day The sense of community focused on klal Yisrael, how you figure things out – like distance and time, School Conference, held in Chicago in February. the Jewish people as a whole, often resonates with etc. – using math. How math is used in all different Prizmah is a recently formed umbrella organiza- 21st-century Jewish families that have varying degrees of subject areas,” she says. “Staff came back inspired tion made up of formerly denominational-specific Jewish educational backgrounds and cultural literacy. with all sorts of ideas about how to incorporate these Jewish educational organizations. The conference Ari Lieberman, a Judaic studies teacher at JHSC methodologies in the classroom.” included educators from schools of various sizes who attended the Prizmah conference, commented MoMath co-founder and executive director Cindy and denominations. that “some of the biggest names in Jewish education Lawrence became involved with MoMath after meet- “In the beginning of the 21st century, Jewish commu- gathered under one roof and the quality of presen- ing Glen Whitney, a fellow founder of the museum, nity schools were the exception, but now many more tations was excellent.” at her synagogue. are becoming the norm,” said Rabbi Elisha Paul, JHSC The Jewish High School of Connecticut is a recipient “It was Glen’s idea to create a museum of math, head of school. “Especially in mid-size communities agency of United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, and were it not for my initially getting to know him where philanthropic resources are often stretched thin, New Canaan and Darien. during Tot Shabbat, I would never have been a part the idea of having one school where students from all Jewish Federations of North America helps to underwrite of this exciting venture,” she recently told the online backgrounds can have their Jewish educational needs this annual conference.

ÊVisit www.ujf.org, facebook.com/stamfordFederation, or tweet UJF at ujfstamford 10 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ APRIL 2017 Pow! Wham! Swoosh! Our Community Raised $300,000 on Super Sunday!

Ilana Appleby Alan Freeman Lael Shapiro Arlene Rosen Todd Palker & Gary & Nancy Schulman Cheryl Bader Goldblum Mitch & Dovi Zucker & Sarah Lipsker Super Sunday Co-Chair Stacey Palker & Gerry Knopf

Danielle Jeiger & her daughter Meira Rebekah Raz, Sharon Franklin Connie Freeman Super Sunday Co-Chair Gail G. Trell Tzedakah Coin Collection Project! Dahlia & UJF CEO James Cohen & Marlyn Agatstein Sarah Breiner

Thank You To Our Generous Sponsors and Supporters:

Mark & Jeri Appel The Liebergall Family Ricky Arbron Long Ridge Camp Arbron Media Associates Mercury Bookkeeping Service Team Bi-Cultural Day School! Aviva Maller Photography Minute Man Press Team Carmel Academy! $500 Agency Incentive Raffle Winner: Benjamin, Gold & Troyb, P.C. Andrew Moss The Friendship Circle BCDS Parents Association Norwalk Self Storage Thank You To Our Food Sponsors! Entered to win by Sandy Golove Blue Wave Kickers Pediatric Healthcare Associates Abel Catering Acme Supermarket SUPER SUNDAY SYNAGOGUE CHALLENGE Carmel Academy Julie Rosenberg, MS, CCCSLP, LLC Beldotti Bakery This year, every new or increased gift to the UJF Better Irene & David Cohen Caroline & Eileen Simmons Together campaign was eligible for the Synagogue 50/50 Navaratna challenge. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, thousands Dano Enterprises Inc. Union Street Carpet and Flooring of dollars were raised and split across our donor’s specified Sam’s Center Café synagogues. Recipients of this initiative included: Shoshana Dweck & Family Ellen and Richard Weber Shop Rite Congregation Agudath Sholom, Chavurah Aytz Chaim, Temple Beth El, Temple Sinai, Young Israel of Stamford. Eli Zucker Photography Hillary & Bob Zitter: 613 Hanna and Mazer Dental Group in honor of Jackie Herman SOOSH Stop and Shop Kid’s tzedakah coin collection Karp’s True Value Hardware Congratulations to coin collectors! You raised over $1700 Trader Joe’s for people in need! Stay tuned for the announcement of which class won the pizza party! All Photo Credits: Aviva Maller Photography april 2017 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 11 Pow! Wham! Swoosh! Our Community Raised $300,000 on Super Sunday!

Ilana Appleby Alan Freeman Lael Shapiro Arlene Rosen Todd Palker & Gary & Nancy Schulman Cheryl Bader Goldblum Mitch & Dovi Zucker & Sarah Lipsker Super Sunday Co-Chair Stacey Palker & Gerry Knopf

Danielle Jeiger & her daughter Meira Rebekah Raz, Sharon Franklin Connie Freeman Super Sunday Co-Chair Gail G. Trell Tzedakah Coin Collection Project! Dahlia & UJF CEO James Cohen & Marlyn Agatstein Sarah Breiner

Thank You To Our Generous Sponsors and Supporters:

Mark & Jeri Appel The Liebergall Family Ricky Arbron Long Ridge Camp Arbron Media Associates Mercury Bookkeeping Service Team Bi-Cultural Day School! Aviva Maller Photography Minute Man Press Team Carmel Academy! $500 Agency Incentive Raffle Winner: Benjamin, Gold & Troyb, P.C. Andrew Moss The Friendship Circle BCDS Parents Association Norwalk Self Storage Thank You To Our Food Sponsors! Entered to win by Sandy Golove Blue Wave Kickers Pediatric Healthcare Associates Abel Catering Acme Supermarket SUPER SUNDAY SYNAGOGUE CHALLENGE Carmel Academy Julie Rosenberg, MS, CCCSLP, LLC Beldotti Bakery This year, every new or increased gift to the UJF Better Irene & David Cohen Caroline & Eileen Simmons Together campaign was eligible for the Synagogue 50/50 Navaratna challenge. Thanks to the generosity of our donors, thousands Dano Enterprises Inc. Union Street Carpet and Flooring of dollars were raised and split across our donor’s specified Sam’s Center Café synagogues. Recipients of this initiative included: Shoshana Dweck & Family Ellen and Richard Weber Shop Rite Congregation Agudath Sholom, Chavurah Aytz Chaim, Temple Beth El, Temple Sinai, Young Israel of Stamford. Eli Zucker Photography Hillary & Bob Zitter: 613 Hanna and Mazer Dental Group in honor of Jackie Herman SOOSH Stop and Shop Kid’s tzedakah coin collection Karp’s True Value Hardware Congratulations to coin collectors! You raised over $1700 Trader Joe’s for people in need! Stay tuned for the announcement of which class won the pizza party! All Photo Credits: Aviva Maller Photography 12 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ APRIL 2017 A Life Well Lived... Our Kneading the Way to a Enduring Legacy Beautiful Shabbat On March 5, the Chevra Kadisha held By Faygie Holt also received their own FC measuring its annual gala event at Agudath Shalom. Shabbat tables across Stamford were spoons, a brochure about challah and The featured speaker, Dr. Erica a bit more festive recently after dozens recipe cards so they could continue to Brown, director of the Mayberg Center of children, teens and parents took part bake the Shabbat bread on their own. for Jewish Education and Leadership at in two recent challah bakes offered At the volunteers’ event for teens George Washington University, was said by the Friendship Circle of Fairfield and their moms, a number of different to inspire everyone with her knowledge County. The events were sponsored braiding techniques were displayed and insight into “A Life Well Lived: by local residents and FC supporters and the teens were able to pick from Our Enduring Legacy.” She spoke Rhonda Maron and Marlene Gatz. a variety of toppings, including onion about how the process of tahara deeply “Everyone loves the smell and taste and cinnamon sugar. The class was touched her, and how children in many of fresh-baked bread,” said Malya taught by Leah Shemtov who relayed communities, even from the age of 13 Shmotkin, the director of the Friend- how “the mitzvah of challah is unique, years, are trained to think about the ship Circle, “and what better way to as it turns something mundane, like importance of preparing bodies for L-r: Maury Rosenbaum and honoree celebrate Shabbat than with a fresh, bread, into something holy.” burial according to the Jewish tradition. Michael Feldstein (Photos by Clive Salmon) homemade challah made together with She also explained that as one makes In addition, Michael Feldstein, a other Friendship Circle participants challah, “it is a special time to speak longstanding member of the Chevra Chevra Kadisha, and given a plaque. and friends.” with God and make special requests, Kadisha (meaning “holy society”), Both speakers spoke about the Jew- Among those who took part in the like asking for a refuah, ‘a healing,’ for was honored and lauded for his ish men and women who prepared baking for families was Stacey Palker, those who are sick.” The teens were work, especially in the marketing bodies for burial according to the and her 6-year-old son, Aaron. They asked to think of someone who might and promotional activities for the Jewish tradition. were joined by Friendship Circle vol- need a helping hand and to pray for unteer Esther Leah Lipsker. them as they made their bread. “This was a wonderful opportunity to All the participants received instruc- bake challah with my son and a chance tions on how to bake the challah at to spend time with other families with home, so as to enhance their Shabbat. special needs,” recalled Palker. “Aaron As Palker recounted, “Aaron was so loved decorating the challah. He load- proud of the challah. It was a huge hit ed it up with cinnamon and sugar, and on Shabbat!” stuffed it with chocolate chips.” In addition to challah baking, with step-by-step instructions led by Shmot- kin, each child made their own chef’s L-r: Rabbi Naftali Wolfe, Navah Wolfe, Paula Giver, David Giver and Adam Batkin. hat and apron. The budding bakers Archives Continued from page 8 people from across the community. Col- future projects!” laborating as different organizations For more information about upcom- to put on an event like that [murder ing JHSFC Murder Mysteries, see future mystery night] is what it really means issues of The New Jewish Voice. to be part of a connected Jewish com- The Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield munity. Thank you all for your time, County is a recipient agency of United dedication and participation. I look Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New forward to working with all of you on Canaan and Darien. Sign Up Now for L-r: Stacey Palker and her son, Aaron, posed Temple Sholom’s for a picture while in the process of making L-r: Marlene Gatz and her daughter, Sara, the challah dough. show off their braided challahs. Summer Programs! Connecting Nature and Summer Little Explorers Judaism At Carmel Academy, Tu B’Shevat Thursdays, June 8July 2 was time to celebrate nature. Through the lens of Jewish experiential 1 am14 am environmental education, every grade explored the gifts of nature • For toddlers (over 18 months old) with with the help of facilitators from parent/caregiver Eden Village, an organic farming camp. Some students learned about • Introducti on to Pre-School experience Jewish environmental stories through • Led by nursery school teacher acting. Other students made their own lip balm and candles, learning • Enjoy free play, arts and craft s, music the importance of using sustainable and story ti me ingredients. Some students made their own kippot using dry felt wool. The • $380 for Temple Sholom members/ hallways were full of the tea blend $425 for non-members aromas that students made for Havdalah, to better understand the connection between nature and Judaism. Above: Carmel Academy eighth-graders Leah Brill and Chaya Itsy Bitsy Playgroup Banschick worked together to create an herbal tincture as part of the Tu B’Shevat program. Wednesdays, 1 am11 am

• For babies (under 18 months old) with parent • Free, drop-in class open to the community • Led by an early childhood & music specialist • Gross motor play, music ti me and more!

For more information about either program, please contact David Cohen at 26228121 or davidcohentemplesholomcom Temple Sholom, East Putnam Avenue, Greenwich, CT april 2017 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 13 14 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ APRIL 2017 “Angels & Prophets” Spreads Its Wings Carmel Academy’s Middle School Band By Julie Lapin School students join in, their young Those who haven’t yet heard of An- voices are very beautiful.” gels & Prophets may be downloading The members of Angels & one of their songs to their music library Prophets, who play a mix of cover in the near future. and original Jewish rock songs, What began as a musical outlet decide on their musical selections for a group of Carmel Academy’s together. students has turned into perhaps “We really want the audience to one of the first-ever middle school feel engaged and to get into the Jewish rock bands. Angels & Proph- music,” said guitarist Talia Orbach. ets entertains guests at the school’s And it’s that engagement with the largest events, played their first live audience that has given the band venue in December and is gearing confidence to spread its wings beyond up to record several original tracks Carmel’s walls. The group played at at a recording studio. the Community Chanukah Concert “I feel proud of all of us. When we in Stamford, opening up for the first started this last year, many of us group Shlock Rock. couldn’t do what we do now. In the time “Before you get on stage your we have been together, we have learned heart is pounding, but once you so much,” said drummer Adam Israel. start getting into the music and The band, comprised of 14 mid- the beat, it is so much fun,” said dle-school students, has truly bonded keyboardist Brian Jablowsky. Carmel Academy middle-school Jewish rock band, Angels & Prophets, posed for a photo during over their shared purpose. “Music is Their next goal is to record a a recent practice. L-r: Gabi Stern, Jonah Weinstock, Tzvi Kalb, Adam Israel, Lily Fanwick, our cornerstone, and spreading joy demo track of original musical Yadid Orlow, Matan Coll, Aaron Eben, Seth Brown, Matan Kramer-Richard, Joshua Ament, and ruach (spirit) is our mission,” co-written by Rabbi Rothstein and Daniel Kesler, Brian Jablowsky and Talia Orbach. said Rabbi Isaiah Rothstein, Carmel the students. Academy’s madrich ruchani (spiritual “They really feel they are able to leader), who created the band with bring the same joy and spirit they are Brandeis Women’s Lunch and Learn the students. bringing to Carmel to the greater com- The Brandeis Women’s Committee will hold a Lunch and Learn luncheon “The name Angels & Prophets is drawn munity,” Rabbi Rothstein said. on Wednesday, March 29, at 10 am, at the Peoples Bank Community Room, 350 from biblical references,” Rabbi Rothstein In order to book studio time, the band Bedford St. The guest speaker will be Stuart Gibson, who will speak on “The said. “Angels comes from the Talmud, will be launching a fund-raiser. No mat- History of the Russian Museum.” which mentions in several places that ter what the future holds for Carmel’s Gibson is an international museum and cultural policy expert with 25 angels sing songs to God daily. Prophets is Angels & Prophets, the band’s members years’ experience working with cultural organizations and governments drawn from the Tanach (scripture), which say their experience playing music with under economic and political transitions. He has worked extensively in says that when musicians would play, and each other has been an important part the Soviet Union, Central Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East. He the prophets would be able to ‘see.’” of their middle-school years. was the director of the Hermitage Museum. He was the founding member Band member Lily Fanwick said she “It really feels like we are a family,” and is presently secretary of the Hermitage Museum International Advi- witnesses the band’s mission come alive said Talia. “We all have different skill sory Board. Currently, he is also an UNESCO advisor to the Uzbekistan every Friday morning when Angels & levels and we are all different, but we Ministry of Culture and Sport on the Kurdish Regional Government. He Prophets leads a morning gathering for can all connect through music.” attended NYU, Ecole Nationale des Ponts et Chaussees in Paris and Uni- the lower school that ushers in Shabbat Carmel Academy is a recipient agency versity of London. with community song. “We lead the of United Jewish Federation of Greater The charge to attend is $25 and reservations can be made by calling Judy song, ‘When I Rise’ and when the Lower Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. Altman at 203-322-1798. april 2017 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 15 Let All Who are Hungry Come and Eat By Rebekah Kanefsky “All who are hungry, let them enter and typically offered in place of food. Schoke Jewish Family Service operates eat. All who are in need, let them come Although it is impossible to invite every member food drives year-round, but its largest celebrate Passover with us.” On Passover, in need to one’s seder table, Schoke Jewish Family food delivery program is for Passover. On Jews have an obligation to feed those who Service embraces the value of maot chitim. JFS staff Sunday, April 2, in both the Stamford and are hungry, and also to invite them into could not do this without the leadership of program Bridgeport offices, more than 300 bags their homes and to their tables. Another Chairs Risa Goldblum, Liz Kitay and Marina Sapir in of food will be distributed to the neediest mitzvah of the holiday of Passover involves the Stamford office, and Sheri Warshaw and Wendy community members within the 17 towns the giving of maot chitim, literally translated Cohen in the Bridgeport office. Thanks to their served by the Schoke JFS. as “wheat money,” to ensure that the poor service to the community’s neediest, Kosher Food On Passover, Jews are reminded of the can purchase the wheat they need to bake Pantry clients will receive what they need for their many obligations to those who are in great- their own matzah. In the past, maot chitim holiday table. est need. As it says in the Passover haggadah, Rebekah Kanefsky was provided as food. Today, money is In the weeks leading up to April 2, the community was involved in the JFS food collection efforts. On See “Hungry” on page 18 Chabad Brings Model Matzah Stanley Ferber Memorial Senior Passover Seder Factory to Stamford On Tuesday, April 4, at 11:30 am, the Stanley By Taly Farber unleavened bread is closely guarded at every step Ferber Memorial Senior Passover Seder will return On Sunday, April 2, Chabad of Stamford will host of its production.” to the JCC, led by Hazzan Sidney Rabinowitz. The a Model Matzah Bakery at Chabad of Stamford. Based on the success of last year’s first Model seder will be followed by a traditional Passover meal. “Open to all families and kids of all ages, the Matzah Bakery, this year’s event will also feature a The Passover seder is presented each year for the bakery is a fun and exciting hands-on experience science presentation by Dr. Schnitzel’s Wacky Science senior adult community, free of charge, thanks to for all to come and make their own shmurah Fun. Dr. Schnitzel (aka Rabbi Michoel Goldin) has the generosity of Beverly Ferber, in memory of her matzah and see the details required to make ko- been entertaining children with science projects husband, Stanley Ferber. sher matzah,” said Leah Shemtov, co-director of for more than 10 years. His shows have been called Admission is free to all seniors. Reservations are Chabad of Stamford. educational, exciting and hands-on. required by Tuesday, March 28, by contacting Connie Says Rabbi Moshe Shemtov, co-director of Chabad There is no charge for the event, and all are Cirillo Freeman, JCC director of senior adult services, of Stamford, “ We want to teach community mem- welcome. Sponsorship of the event is appreciated. at 203-487-0983 or [email protected]. bers about the special process of making shmurah To sign up and RSVP for the event, contact pro- matzah for the Passover seder, and offer hands-on [email protected], call 203-324-2223, ext. Temple Sinai Family Seder opportunities to see how the special handmade 103 or visit www.StamfordChabad.org. Temple Sinai will hold a second seder for families on Tuesday, April 10, at 5 pm. The seder is open to all and is intended to be engaging for all ages. For Quinoa for Passover those who RSVP before Saturday, April 1, the cost to attend will be $36 adults and $18 children (13 By Ronnie Fein bring to a boil over high heat. Lower the heat, cover and younger). After April 1, the cost to attend will After years and years of de- the pan and simmer for about 15 minutes or until be $54 adults and $18 children (13 and younger). bate, most authorities say that all the water has been absorbed. Set aside. Those interested in attending are asked to call quinoa is perfectly fine during Heat the olive oil in a wok, stir-fry pan or sauté the temple office to make reservations as soon as Passover. Although it looks like pan over medium heat. Add the scallions and cook possible. For more information and to RSVP, contact a grain, cooks like a grain and for 2-3 minutes or until they have softened. Add the 203-322-1649. fills you up like a grain, quinoa quinoa to the pan and cook, stirring to distribute isn’t a grain and it isn’t related ingredients evenly. Sprinkle with the mint, lemon Chabad of Stamford to Hold Family to the five grains prohibited peel and salt and pepper to taste. Cook for about Communal Seders during Passover. It doesn’t rise one minute or until the ingredients are hot. Chabad of Stamford will hold two family communal or grow near the forbidden The cover of Ronnie Makes 4 servings. seders. The first seder will be held on Monday, April grains. It is also unlike beans, Fein’s newest cookbook, Quinoa Salad with Carrots, Raisins and 10, at 7 pm. The second seder will be on Tuesday, corn and other kitniyot. “The Modern Kosher Almonds April 11, at 7:15 pm. There is a suggested donation So – why not! Especially Kitchen” 1 cup quinoa to attend, adult $45 and child $22. For more infor- because quinoa actually has a 2 medium chopped fresh carrots mation and to make reservations, call 203-324-2223, lot more to offer beyond being a friendly food for ½ cup raisins ext. 102; e-mail [email protected]; or Passover. It’s wondrous – once used as a food for 3 scallions, chopped visit www.stamfordchabad.org. Those wishing to the poor in South America, quinoa is a nutritional 3 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley attend either of the seders are asked to RSVP by powerhouse, especially useful for vegetarians. It’s 1 tsp. finely chopped fresh ginger Monday, April 3, to 203-324-2223, ext. 102. a complete protein, and it’s also gluten-free, low- 1 tsp. grated fresh orange peel carb, no-fat and no-cholesterol. It’s easy to digest ½ cup lightly toasted almonds and it’s filling. 3 Tbsp. vegetable oil TBE Offers Second Night Seder Alas, it’s no longer food for the poor. Because of 2 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar This year, Temple Beth El will offer a Second its popularity, quinoa can be expensive. 2 Tbsp. orange juice Night Seder on Tuesday, April 11, at 6 pm. The com- Quinoa has a nutty, earthy flavor. Some people Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste munity is invited to join Rabbi Joshua Hammerman find it slightly “soapy” – it needs rinsing even when Rinse the quinoa several times in a strainer. Place and his family as he leads the seder featuring a full the package says pre-rinsed. Once rinsed, though, the quinoa and 1½ cups water in a saucepan, and dinner with a choice of turkey, brisket, chick or a you can use it like rice or noodles for soup, eat it bring to a boil over high heat. Lower the heat, cover vegetarian option. as cereal or serve it as a side dish with dinner. You the pan and simmer for about 15 minutes or until The cost to attend for adults and children 13 and can sauté quinoa like pilaf, or use it to stuff peppers all the water has been absorbed. up is $40 per person and children ages 3-12 are $20 or mushroom caps. You can cook it and make it Spoon the quinoa into a bowl. Add the carrots, per person. Children under 3 are free. RSVP by into a salad. It’s versatile, healthy and tasty – what raisins, scallions, parsley, ginger, orange peel and al- Tuesday, April 4, at www.tinyurl.com/tbeseder or call more can you ask? monds, and toss to distribute the ingredients evenly. the temple office at 203-322-6901, ext. 304. For your dining pleasure at Passover (or any other In a small bowl, mix the vegetable oil, cider time), here are two refreshing quinoa recipes, one vinegar and orange juice. Pour over the quinoa side dish and one salad: mixture, toss ingredients and let rest for 15 minutes Wishing you and Sautéed Quinoa with Scallions and Mint before serving. Taste for seasoning and add salt and 1 cup quinoa pepper to taste. your family 2 Tbsp. olive oil Makes 4-6 servings. peace, health 3-4 large scallions, chopped Ronnie Fein is a cookbook author, food writer and ¼ cup chopped fresh mint cooking teacher in Stamford. She is the author of “The and happiness 2 tsp. finely grated lemon peel Modern Kosher Kitchen” and “Hip Kosher.” Visit her food this Pesach Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste blog, Kitchen Vignettes, at www.ronniefein.com, like her Rinse the quinoa several times in a strainer. Place on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RonnieFeinKitchen, or Nancy, Gadi, Michael and Bari Mimoun the quinoa and 1½ cups water in a saucepan, and follow her on Twitter and Instagram at @RonnieVFein. Passover Greetings om

ÊVisit www.ujf.org, facebook.com/stamfordFederation, or tweet UJF at ujfstamford 16 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ APRIL 2017 Carmel Academy First-Graders Explore Their Community By Julie Lapin “In fact, the students took seven learned about fire safety at the fire- “Who are the people in your neigh- field trips where they learned about house and checked out books at the borhood?” Let Carmel Academy’s first various institutions and interviewed library. Students’ writing about what graders can tell people! people who work in them. To pre- type of job they would want and why After months of learning about what pare for their visits, the students was on display, and artwork, inspired institutions are considered integral to read non-fiction texts, watched by artist James Rizzi, adorned the walls. a community, the school’s first-graders videos and brain-stormed interview “This program truly represents the culminated an integrated social studies questions,” said Carmel first-grade epitome of integrated learning,” said unit by creating their own community: teacher Julie Rubin. Jennifer Gensior, Carmel Academy’s “Carmel Place.” As part of a culminating program, director of general studies curriculum. Throughout the school year, first the students created “Carmel Place.” “The students read and wrote about graders visited important places in the Dressed as bakers and bankers, police non-fiction texts, applied math and sci- community as part of their social studies L-r: Albie Becher and Daniella Felsman and firefighters, librarians and postal ence skills, experienced each of the jobs curriculum – from the police station to served pastries to their customers at their workers, the students went to work at they were learning about through field the bakery to the grocery store. Carmel Place bakery. their respective businesses and invited trips, developed public speaking and their parents to be the patrons. interviewing skills, and applied their Using “Carmel cash,” parents and learning in an authentic environment. A Day of Service For faculty purchased treats at the bakery, What a great experience!” bought stationery at the general store, Carmel Academy is a recipient agency mailed letters at the post office, got of United Jewish Federation of Greater Carmel Academy Students fingerprinted at the police station, Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said: “Life’s most persistent and urgent question is, ‘What are you doing for others?’” For many, Martin Luther King Jr. Day was not merely a day off At right: Carmel to remember King, but a day of Academy first-graders service – a chance to give back. Shaya Becher, Niv Carmel Academy’s seventh- and Hendin, Nate Young eighth-graders did just that: and Daniel Shteingart voluntarily exchanging a day off sang a song for their from school for a day of chesed. guests at “Carmel Fourteen students spent MLK Jr. Place.” Day at SportsCenter in Shelton and played with new friends through The Friendship Circle, an organization that brings special needs and typical youth together through shared experiences. Shown are Carmel Academy seventh-grader Maya Fogel and eighth-grader Mimi Chapman at SportsCenter.

April/May SUPPORT FOR THOSE IN NEED SPECIAL EVENTS EMPLOYMENT & TRAINING Schoke JFS Brain Fitness Schoke JFS Computer Training Courses Tuesdays, April 25th and May 16th at 1:00 pm. Designed for individuals looking to stimulate Variety of courses - all levels, individuals or small groups. Nominal fee. For more their brain power with a meaningful experience focusing on insight, reducing stress, information, contact Ilene Locker at 203-921-4161 or [email protected]. inspiring confidence, and providing practical support to help reach personal goals! Come and meet others and participate in some mental exercises to stimulate brain power. $10 fee Schoke JFS Seniors2Work to attend. Light refreshments will be served. Advance registration suggested by contacting Job Bank for age 50+. Lower Fairfield employers can list full / part time jobs for dedicated, Jami Fener, Brain Fitness Program Coordinator at [email protected] or 203-921-4161 ext. 121. skilled mature workers. No fees. For more information, contact Ilene Locker or Jodi Max- ner at 203-921-4161 or www.seniors2work.org SAVE THE DATE An Evening with Elayne and James Schoke JFS. Wednesday, May 10 at the Italian Center, Schoke JFS Life Transitions Stamford. 38th Annual Mitzvah Award to the Beldotti Family and Young Leadership Award Beginning Wednesdays at 4pm to Mark Frank. Cocktails at 5:30 pm, dinner, live auction and at 8:00 pm, stand-up comedy Support group, meeting weekly, for unemployed facing the emotional challenges of finding by Steve Solomon of the Broadway show, My Mother’s Italian, My Father’s Jewish and I’m in employment at the Stamford Schoke JFS office, 733 Summer Street, 6th Floor.Contact Anne Therapy. For more details or RSVP, visit www.ctjfs.org. Birchenough at 203-921-4161 or [email protected].

DIVORCE & BEREAVEMENT Parent Education Program (PEP) State-mandated workshop for divorcing parents with children at Schoke JFS Stamford. Fee is $125 per person. Call for dates and to register at 203-324-3167. CARING FOR SENIORS Schoke JFS Focus on K.I.D.S. Not Enough Money for Food? For divorced or separated parents experiencing high conflict around parenting decisions. Schoke JFS will provide information and eligibility assistance for financial help to purchase Teaches both parents strategies for communicating in a non-hostile manner. For more food. For a consultation, please contact Rebekah Kanefsky, Schoke JFS Case Manager at 203- information, contact Erika Garcia at 203-921-4161 or [email protected]. 921-4161 or email [email protected]. Schoke JFS Home Companion SUPPORT A program placing fully trained and vetted home companions and CNAs matched to the Schoke JFS Brain Fitness Pilot Program needs and specific circumstances of senior clients. Trained aides assist seniors with daily Working with clients to improve brain function while aging in the client’s home. JFS activities, chores, and socialization. Certified Nursing Assistants can provide personal care, is looking for volunteers to provide one-on-one brain fitness training. No experience toileting, and medication management. Services are provided hourly, daily or up to 24/7 at necessary. Contact Jami Fener at 203-921-4161 or [email protected]. competitive rates. Full supervision by professional Schoke JFS staff. For more information contact Isrella Knopf, Director of Senior Services at Schoke JFS at 203-921-4161 or email at Schoke JFS Kosher Food Pantry [email protected]. Non-perishable staples for those in need. Donations welcomed. Please contact Rebekah JFS Residential Cleaning Kanefsky at 203-921-4161 or email [email protected] to arrange drop-off. For more Employ professionally trained individuals to clean your home and at the same time help sup- information, contact JFS at 203-921-4161. port Schoke Jewish Family Service. Rates lower or competitive than other service providers. For more information, contact Jodi Maxner at 203-921-4161 or [email protected]. COUNSELING, MEDIATION & CRISIS Let’s Talk - FAIRFIELD Schoke JFS For Children/Adolescents Diagnosed With ADD/ADHD Starting in February 2017. Thursdays, 12:45 pm. FREE at the Bigelow Center for Senior Wednesday afternoons. Finding Your Focus with Dr. Lee Combrinck-Graham MD. Service Activities, 100 Mona Terrace, Fairfield, CT. includes psychiatric evaluation, review of previous evaluations, family assessment, on-going Seniors talk about common interests and concerns, facilitated by a Schoke Jewish Family support, and medication management. Qualifies for insurance reimbursement. For more Service counselor. Contact Rebekah Kanefsky at 203-921-4161 or [email protected]. information, contact Eve Moskowitz at 203-921-4161 or [email protected]. Let’s Talk - STAMFORD JCC Schoke JFS College Counseling Tuesdays, 11 – 11:45 a.m. Free to all seniors. For more information, contract Connie Cirillo Need help navigating the college admission and application process? Qualified, experienced Freeman. assistance provided by Claire D. Friedlander, JFS College Consultant. Competitive fees. For Let’s Talk - STAMFORD more information, contact Claire Friedlander at 203-921-4161 or [email protected]. Thursdays, 11:00 am. FREE at the Stamford JCC, 1035 Newfield Avenue. Schoke JFS Counseling Seniors talk about common interests and concerns, facilitated by a Schoke Jewish Family Qualified, licensed professionals provide counseling and psychotherapy to individuals, Service counselor. Contact Anne Birchenough at 203-921-4161 or [email protected]. children, adolescents, families, couples and groups. For emotional support while Let’s Talk - WESTPORT unemployed, see Life Transitions below. Affordable fees, based on income; no one is “turned Thursdays, 1:00 pm. FREE at the Westport Senior Center, 21 Imperial Avenue, Westport. away”. Insurance accepted. For more information, contact JFS at 203-921-4161. Seniors talk about common interests and concerns, facilitated by a Schoke Jewish Family Schoke JFS Individuals / Families in Crisis Service counselor. . Contact Anne Birchenough at 203-921-4161 or [email protected]. Comprehensive services. Assistance with basic necessities, housing, medical, social, legal and financial matters. Fees based on ability to pay. For more information, contact: Rebekah Kanefsky at 203- 921-4161 #128 or [email protected]. april 2017 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 17 18 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ APRIL 2017 VOICES AND VIEWS Bringing the classroom to life Jewish day schools focus on individualized learning By Jacqueline Herman challenging mathematical concepts, see each and every day the byproduct we are uniquely able to individualize In Proverbs we are taught: “Raise these are the moments that serve as of the values we teach: We see it in the learning in order to engage children a child according to his inclination.” a student’s joyful reward, building a kindnesses students show one another comfortably in our Torah and our It is a lesson for the ages, but with life-long love of learning. – in the respect they have for teachers faith. At the same time, we broaden particular relevance for today’s edu- For me, being a Jewish educator – in the reverence they have for Torah. their intellectual horizons, advance cators and parents. It inspires us to means working in close partnership Finally, as a Jewish school, we hold their social and emotional growth, and approach each child as an individual, with parents. After all, we share a mutu- onto a profoundly meaningful con- ensure they emerge as mensches, with allowing his or her unique talents al goal: to raise mensches and confident stant: the notion that God is ever-pres- the tools to handle the challenges of and interests to guide us in helping young leaders. That goal is best met ent, guiding us through the Torah. high school, college and careers, and the student learn through the pursuit when the Jewish values and lessons We approach the Torah as the living with the confidence to lead. of his or her genuine passions. It is a learned in school are reinforced in the document that it is. Our challenge is Jacqueline Herman is Head of School of reliable blueprint for making learning home. Likewise, our strong emphasis to connect every lesson to something Bi-Cultural Day School. accessible and enjoyable. on Jewish values, coupled with our each child can apply in a meaningful This is an edited version of an article “The beauty of Jewish day school is alliance with parents, helps us ensure way to his or her own life. that appeared in the February issue of that it can bring the best of our tradition that every child remains grounded. We As Jewish day school educators, Jewish Links. together with all that is cutting edge in education,” I often tell parents. Yes, we teach Hebrew, Chumash, Hungry Continued from page 16 Navi, Mishnah and Gemara, and our March 12 and 19, Schoke Jewish Fam- students of Bridgeport’s Hebrew High matzah and macaroons. In Stamford, children emerge deeply knowledge- ily Service was at the Stamford Stop & School Merkaz also collected food. JFS program chairs will host a bag able and equipped with the kind of Shop to kick off the food collection. Foodtown Supermarkets has donated packing event at the Summer Street high-level analytic skills that are honed Local synagogues and schools collect- the 300 bags of food with items for office. In Bridgeport, the Federation by the study of Judaic text. At the same ed food, as well. Throughout March, the seder table, such as grape juice, for Jewish Philanthropy, Merkaz and time, today’s Jewish day schools provide The Conservative Synagogue will join instruction in contemporary topics, forces to collect, bag and deliver food such as computer coding, beginning Indian Continued from page 1 as part of their Mitzvah Day event. with the earliest grades, and weaves Shavei Israel’s founder and chairman, grants arrived on February 14, and the Beyond the meals served, the Passover engineering seamlessly into the secular said in a statement. “After 27 centuries remaining 72 arrived on February 16. food drive increases the Jewish commu- – and even the Judaic – curriculum (like of exile, this lost tribe of Israel is truly The new immigrants will live in the nity’s connection and empathy with one using a 3-D printer to create miniature coming home. But we will not rest until northern Israeli city of Nazareth Illit, another. Food drive recipients have said items used in the Mishkan, guided by all the remaining Bnei Menashe still in which “already has a flourishing Bnei they feel “remembered” by the communi- Torah instructions!). And, we teach India are able to make aliyah as well.” Menashe community,” according to ty and those volunteering have said they the full range of secular subjects too, Thirty of the Bnei Menashe immi- Shavei Israel. feel enriched by participating in tikkun successfully balancing the basics with olam (repairing the world) by bringing opportunities for creativity, exploration the community together in recognition and discovery. of one of the holiday observances. As an educator, I like to say that it’s Those who want to fulfill themitzvot not about “A”s, it’s about the “Aha!” for Passover, and don’t know how to get moments. Whether they come while involved, can donate Passover food to debating Jewish texts or tackling the Kosher Food Pantry, or contact the JFS staff office to be included in the list The New Jewish Voice of volunteers bagging and delivering. There are many ways to get involved this “The New Jewish Voice” (USPS #189) is published monthly by holiday and JFS welcomes helping hands. the United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien Inc., 1035 Newfield Ave., Stamford, CT 06905-2521. If you know of someone who could www.ujf.org for updates and donations benefit from the Kosher Food Pantry services, have them contact JFS at 203- Ricky Arbron...... President 921-4161 or [email protected]. All services James A. Cohen...... Chief Executive Officer are strictly confidential. Advisory Committee The Elayne and James Schoke Jewish Meryl Gordon...... Chair Family Service is a recipient agency of United Meryl Japha, Nancy Schulman, Ellen Weber, Sue Yellen Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. Reporter Group Staff Rebekah Kanefsky is the Schoke JFS The Reporter Group edits and publishes The New Jewish Voice. Indian Bnei Menashe members celebrated Purim in Israel. (Photo by Wikimedia Commons) director of case management. Rabbi Rachel Esserman...... Executive Editor Diana Sochor...... Layout Editor Michael Nassberg...... Assistant Editor Jenn DePersis...... Production Coordinator Bonnie Rozen...... Advertising Representative Kathy Brown...... Bookkeeper Opinions The views expressed in editorials and opinion pieces are those of each author and not necessarily the views of the United Jewish Federation. Letters The New Jewish Voice welcomes letters on subjects of interest to the Jewish community. All letters must be signed and include a phone number. The editor may withhold the name upon request.

Kashruth We are not responsible for the Kashruth of any adver- tiser’s product or establishment. HOW TO REACH THE EDITOR: Mail: Sandy Golove 1035 Newfield Ave. - Suite 200 Stamford, CT 06905-2521 E-mail: [email protected] Phone: (203) 912-9945 Send article submissions via e-mail to Sandy Golove at [email protected] marked “Stamford Voice” in the subject line. Expect an acknowledgement; please re-send if you do not receive one. HOW TO REACH THE ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: Phone: 1-800-779-7896, ext. 244 SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION: Phone: (203) 321-1373 ext. 107 april 2017 ■ THE NEW JEWISH VOICE 19 New Bi-Cultural Program Speaks to the Heart The notion that Judaism is a way of to be created “b’tzelem elokim” – in the life that is carried in people’s hearts – image of God. that its core values and foundational “These are the things that students concepts must become a part of people carry in their hearts,” explains Michal as children so that they may be guided Smart, associate principal for Judaic by them as adults – is the catalyst be- Studies. “Things that we want everyone hind a program introduced this year to know by the time they graduate at Bi-Cultural Day School. – such as the concept that everyone The program B’chol Levavecha – is created in God’s image, that no one “with all of your heart” – encourages person is better than someone else.” students in grades two through eight B’chol Levavecha incentivizes chil- to commit to memory central pieces dren to learn on their own by awarding of Judaic knowledge that may serve them points for learning items included them well throughout their lives: For in booklets issued at the beginning of example, the brachot, the books of the the year. Students who hit their targeted Tanach, the pilgrimage festivals, the points win a day trip. Hebrew months, etc., as well as Judaic Bi-Cultural Day School is a recipient values and ideas, such as the three agency of United Jewish Federation of Greater pillars of the world and what it means Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. Bi-Cultural Chess Team Makes its Move At right, l-r: The Bi-Cultural Day School Chess Team of Nathan Tadiashvilli, Gabriel Haron and Eric Kwalwasser took third place overall in the National Educational Chess Association Chess Tournament, which was held on February 5 at Stamford’s Italian Center. The team members were among 75 students hoping to shout out “checkmate.” In addition to their team win, Tadiashvilli placed third and Haron placed fourth in the tournament’s Primary Open Division. This follows the team’s fourth place win at the 32nd NECA Chess Tournament on December 11 at the King School in which 72 students participated. In that tournament, Kwalwasser raised high the first-place trophy in the Primary Novice Division, while Tadiashvilli placed first and Haron placed sixth place in the Primary Open Division. Thank You for Your Service, Sgt. Ostroff! SCHOKE JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE (SCHOKE JFS)

Bi-Cultural Day School students were given an inside glimpse into the life of an American soldier when Sgt. First Class Larry Ostroff stopped by for a visit. Ostroff, who serves in the U.S. Army’s 990th Engineer Company, discussed with seventh- and eighth-graders the challenges soldiers face today, taking the time to answer the students’ many questions. Soon after, the Stamford dad was deployed to the Middle East for 400 days. As part of the school’s “Chesed” initiative, Ostroff’s son, Zachary, an eighth-grader, then launched an in-school campaign to collect items for care packages to be sent to soldiers who, unlike Zach’s dad, don’t receive any from home. Said Zachary, “I wanted [them] to feel the same happiness that my father does when he receives a package.” The school thanked Ostroff for his service. JCC Brunch and Learn: Israel’s Ethiopian Jews Israel is a country of minorities, built and founded by immigrants from a multitude of ethnic groups. Join Yael Stolarsky, JCC Israeli shlichah, for the last two talks in this year’s Brunch and Learn series on minorities in Israel. The topic on Thursday, April 20, and Sunday, April 23, will be Ethiopian Jews. Today, Israel is the home of the largest Ethiopian Jewish community in the world, with about 140,000 citizens of Ethiopian descent. Stolarsky will lead a discussion on the challenges they face. The April 20 session will be held from 11 am-noon. The April 23 session will be held from 10-11:30 am. Both sessions will be held at the Jewish Community Center, Newfield Avenue. There is no charge to attend. For more information, contact Stolarsky at 203-487-0961 or [email protected].

MoMath Continued from page 9 For Lawrence, it’s all a part of tikkun more to help sharpen math skills and olam, repairing the world. drive home the message that math can For Heron, it’s also about “taking be cool – Bi-Cultural students will be math off the page.” For adults and kids, front row, center. too. Which is why, when “Math Magi- Bi-Cultural Day School is a recipient cal” comes to Stamford this spring – a agency of United Jewish Federation of Greater program that uses magic, comedy and Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. 20 THE NEW JEWISH VOICE ■ APRIL 2017