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JewishA publication of the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires, serving V the Berkshires and surrounding ice NY, CT and VT Vol. 24, No. 6 Av/Elul 5776 August 5 to September 18, 2016 jewishberkshires.org A New Paradigm in the Funny, It Doesn’t Look Jewish… Israeli/Palestinian Conflict? Washington Institute Experts David Makovsky and Ghaith al-Omari to explore paths to peace at Federation’s Mid-East Update PHOTO: WIKIPEDIA COMMONS David Makovsky Ghaith al-Omari Ah, summer in the Berkshires. The trees in leaf, the fresh highland air, long days warmed by the sun, nights cooled by soothing breezes, picnics, parties, concerts, WILLIAMSTOWN & LENOX – On Sun- ton Institute of Near East Policy. An and everywhere you look, step, or sit…insects. Ants, aphids, bees, beetles, day, September 18, the Jewish Feder- afternoon session will be held at 3 p.m. butterflies, cockroaches, dragonflies, fleas, gnats, grasshoppers, ladybugs, mites, ation of the Berkshires brings its 2016 on the campus of Williams College, and mosquitoes, moths, spiders, termites, and ticks – none of them kosher, but some of Mid-East Update to two local venues, will be followed by a 7:30 p.m. program them, possibly, sort of Jewish. Turn to the back page for a roundup of “13 insects hosting two noted experts on the Israe- at Shakespeare & Company in Lenox. and other strange organisms named after Jews.” Pictured above is Megachile li/Palestinian conflict, David Makovsky Both programs are free and open to chomskyi, named after waspish linguist Noam Chomsky. and Ghaith al-Omari of the Washing- the public. As political instability, societal cha- os, and war and terrorism have over- Inside taken the greater Middle East over the past 8 years, the conflict between Israel Your Federation Presents...... 5-11, 14-15 and the Palestinians has been largely sidelined. Negotiated peace between Rockin’ with Mama Doni! Local News...... 13, 16-20 the two parties, the classic paradigm A Free Family Concert Thanks, Major Donors!...... 14-15 for the last few decades, has been put Culture and Arts...... 25 aside. What will take its place? GREAT BARRINGTON – On Sunday, September 11 at 11:30 a.m., the Food and Drink...... 26-27 MID-EAST UPDATE, Jewish Federation of the Berkshires continued on page 5 and PJ Library present “Rockin’ with Mama Doni,” a free family concert. Kids, parents, and grand- parents are welcome to laugh, clap, Dr. Edwin Kolodny to Talk about dance, and sing along with their inner Jewish child as Mama Doni Gaucher Disease and Its Lessons at elevates the ruach and spirit of our Jewish values, traditions, and the Federation’s Maimonides culture. The show will take place at Society Meeting Hevreh of Southern Berkshire, 270 State Road in Great Barrington. Families are encouraged to make PITTSFIELD – At 7:30 p.m. on Wednes- this concert a mitzvah moment day, August 24, the Maimonides for their children by bringing new Society of the Jewish Federation of the packages of diapers and/or baby Berkshires will hold its third annual wipes to be donated to the Berk- meeting. Noted neurologist and genet- shire Community Diaper Project. “Mama Doni” – Eric Lindberg and icist Dr. Edwin Kolodny will deliver a Doni Zasloff talk titled “Gaucher Disease: Lessons Who You’ll Be Rockin’ With in Culture, Biotechnology, and Human- Emunah, and The Jewish Holiday “Rockin’ with Mama Doni” itarian Assistance.” Collection) have earned them Par- features lead singer Doni Zasloff The meeting will be held at the Hil- ents Choice Awards, and they have (Mama Doni), who is also a leading ton Garden Inn, 1032 South Street in also released a DVD, cookbook, and songwriter, author, and performer Pittsfield (behind Guido’s Marketplace). two volumes of audio books with in Jewish entertainment for kids A dessert reception will follow. Bible stories. About The Jewish Hol- and families. She is accompanied All health care professionals – MDs, iday Collection, Hadassah Magazine by husband Eric Lindberg, a master dentists, nurses, chiropractors, phys- wrote: “Doni Zasloff and Eric Lind- instrumentalist who, besides play- ical and physical and occupational berg give kids not only a whopping ing guitar, has also committed him- therapists – working in or visiting the good time musically and in story- self to the study of other bluegrass Berkshires are invited to this network- telling but offer a hidden bonus: In instruments including mandolin, ing event. three foot-stomping episodes, they dobro, and banjo in order to bring “I am thrilled to invite our health- teach kids how to celebrate Hanuk- American instruments and sounds care community to hear one of the ka, Passover, and Shabbat.” to Jewish faith and tradition. world’s leading experts in genetic Each of Zasloff and Lindberg’s FAMILY CONCERT, disease, Dr. Ed Kolodny, who, inci- Dr. Edwin Kolodny past three CDs (Shabbat Shaboom, continued on page 10 dentally, is also a fabulous speaker. Regardless of your particular specialty, MAIMONIDES SOCIETY, continued on page 5 Page 2 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org August 5 to September 18, 2016

In My View Nice Work If You Can Get It – Along With a Little Help from Our Voluntary Subscribers By Albert Stern, Editor, Berkshire Jewish Voice

It’s good to be a newspaper editor in the Berk- Rebecca Fiske of Bard College at Simon’s Rock. shires. As an example of why, let me share a story Author Daniel Klein wrote about the philosophical underpinnings of classic that unfolded while I was putting together this Jewish jokes for the BJV, while fellow Knosh & Knowledge presenters Roselle issue of the BJV. Chartock, Alex Kershaw, and Letty Cottin Pogrebin all sat down for wide-ranging On Wednesday, August 24, our Federation will interviews about their recent books. I’ve had Yehuda Hannani and Paul Green ed- be hosting its third annual Maimonides Society ucate me about Jewish music; learned about museums with Tenement Museum Meeting, a gathering where local Jewish health founder Ruth Abram; dissected the character of Shylock with Jonathan Epstein, care professionals can meet and share their per- the Jewish actor playing him at Shakespeare & Company; discussed illustration spectives about healing and the Jewish values they with renowned children’s book author Uri Shulevitz; and listened as Roz Chast bring to their practices. My job was to interview the described her creative process. (Not only that, when we did a special section on featured speaker and get a few quotes for the story “People of the Comic Book,” my buddy Lawrence Klein, who founded the Museum promoting the event. of Comic and Cartoon Art in New York and whose story we also told, let me share I reached Dr. Edwin Kolodny to set up an inter- an unpublished cartoon she drew of him.) view time just as a Hadassah meeting he and his wife, Roz, were hosting at their And these are just a few of the compelling Jewish individuals living and/or home was wrapping up. Dr. Kolodny escaped outside and said he liked doing working in the Berkshires whose stories we’ve shared with our readers over the things quickly, and since I was on the phone already, he wanted to go ahead with past two years. We’ve had special sections devoted to farming, music, Jewish the interview. I hadn’t done the research I like to do before talking to someone, books, cooking, and local history, and also initiated Berkshire Jewish Voices, a but figured we’d wing it. lifestyle column where local writers can describe their Jewish lives in personal I had Dr. Kolodny’s bio in front of me, and asked him to explain, in layman’s and offbeat ways. terms, what his work was about. He told me he was a neurogeneticist, a doctor While the function of the BJV will always be to inform our readers about Jew- who studies the link between genes, behav- ish events and initiatives undertaken by the ior, the brain, and neurological disorders Federation and its affiliate institutions in and diseases. He mentioned he was on the Knowing more about what we all are up to the Berkshires and beyond, it has been my team that co-discovered the absent enzyme goal as editor to dedicate space to personal that causes Tay Sachs, and was an advisor and thinking about Jewishly is vital in stories that capture this community in all its in the establishment Chevra Dor Yeshorim, creating our own singular Jewish depth and diversity. In a small Jewish com- a confidential premarital genetic screening munity like ours – one that is also geograph- service for the disease that is widely used communal identity. ically spread out and demographically fluid, in the Hasidic community. Dr. Kolodny also seasonally changing in size and composition talked about his research with National – I believe that knowing more about what Institute of Health laboratory that was instrumental in understanding the nature we all are up to and thinking about Jewishly is vital in creating our own singu- and prevalence of Gaucher Disease. lar Jewish communal identity. The BJV very much reflects the larger communal I scribbled furiously in my notepad trying to keep up with Dr. Kolodny’s wide goals of the Federation and, I hope, the interests and values of its readers. ranging narrative. At a certain point, he must have sensed he was overwhelming I hope you will sustain these efforts by with a voluntary subscription to your me, and so said: “I’ll tell you what – can I just write something up and send it to community newspaper, the Berkshire Jewish Voice. This Federation long ago you?” decided, given the nature of Berkshire County and its fulltime/part time/tour- So one of the world’s most preeminent neurogeneticists just asked me if he ist community, that a print publication is a valuable way to reach the people we could go out of his way to contribute material about his work for an article in our need to reach in order to create, sustain, and fund Jewish life in this region. This small paper. I pondered how I should answer. publication’s revenues do not cover all its costs, however, and so your financial “Um, sure, that would be great,” is what I decided to say. help as voluntary subscribers is essential in our efforts to bring you meaningful, This anecdote perfectly illustrates why it’s good to be a newspaper editor in positive, and entertaining stories about both your neighbors and Jews around the the Berkshires, particularly in the Jewish community. For one, this region has world. attracted a wealth of interesting and accomplished individuals with world class Please see the insert in this newspaper for the different funding levels credentials in the arts, medicine, business, academia, Jewish activism, and many available. An honorary publisher gift of $360 allows us to provide 4 pages of other areas of endeavor – they have great stories to tell and valuable insights to color, while all voluntary subscriptions help us defray the cost of printing share. Second, these individuals love the Berkshires and respect the sophistica- and mailing the thousands of copies of the newspaper we send out to you tion of the local audience, and so are eager to share their stories both through the nine times each year. BJV and by presenting at the many compelling programs our Federation spon- Like I said, it’s good being an editor in the Berkshires. Every day, it’s a kick sors. to be able to talk to fascinating people about the work, ideas, and causes they When we wanted to do a special section about Jewish camping, I was able to are passionate about. I certainly appreciate all the kind words the Federation sit down with Brandeis professor and South County second home owner Amy has received about the paper, as well the efforts of those who have pitched in as Sales, co-author of groundbreaking research about the subject. When we did a contributors, volunteers, and sponsors. I feel privileged to be able to tell these special section about connecting with Israel, her colleague and co-author Leonard individual stories so that we can all better understand our collective story as a Saxe contributed an original article about his recent study of how engagement Jewish community in this beautiful and special part of the world. with Israel promotes Jewish identity among young people. Please continue to support our efforts with a voluntary subscription to the When we had the idea to write about the best translations of Hebrew scrip- BJV. ture, I was able to not only enlist the efforts of our learned local clergy (among them two of The Forward’s most inspiring rabbi honorees), but also of author Seth Brown and two distinguished scholars, Edan Dekel of Williams College and

DEADLINES The next Berkshire Jewish Voice (Vol. 24, No. 7) will cover the period September 19, 2016 through October 31, 2016. The following edition (Vol. 24, No. 8) covers November 1, 2016 through December 15, 2016. The deadline for press releases and other written submissions, all of which are subject to being edited, is September 16, 2016. Because of limitations of space and time, please be so kind as to not submit lengthy articles without first contacting the editor. Advertising deadline is October 11, 2016. For a complete Berkshire Jewish Voice schedule, contact (413) 442-4360, ext. 11, or e-mail [email protected]. Av-Elul 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 3

Rabbi Reflections Trust in the Journey By Rabba Kaya Stern-Kaufman This is a time of journeying. In our weekly emerging spiritual community. You can access information about the future of Torah reading, we are well on our way in the the Rimon community by joining the Rimon Re-Visioning email group at https:// wilderness journeys of the Israelites. Follow- groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/rimon-re-visioning-group. Notes from these ing a pillar of cloud by day and pillar of fire meetings and information about this transition can also be found on the Rimon by night, they move and rest at God’s will. It website: www.rimonberkshires.org . is a journey in which their faith is tested, but The Or HaMeir, a student of the Maggid of Mezritch, writes the following about over time trust is built. I recognize that I, too, this verse from psalms: “A person’s steps are made firm by YHVH, but he delights am on a journey of trust. After four years of in his way” (Ps. 37:23). shepherding Rimon from an idea to the birth I heard the following interpretation of the Baal Shem Tov. He construed this of a community, I am responding to the call to verse to refer to those people who travel to distant places to engage in busi- go forth. In August, I will begin a new chapter ness, as well as others who find themselves traveling far away. The Holy One’s as the rabbi of Congregation Agudat Achim in thoughts are not theirs: they think that all of their endeavors on the way to Leominster, MA. the distant place are for the sake of earning money in return for the business These four years have been rich with learn- they do, and it is for this reason that they set out on their journey. In truth, ing, connecting, and building community. We this is not the Holy One’s intention, for God can accomplish even more than have established a dedicated hevra kadisha they. That is, sometimes, in that far-away place, there is a loaf of bread that is that will continue to provide services to the tied to the businessman’s root-soul, and he must eat of that very loaf in that Jewish community of South Berkshire County very place at that very time (to connect his soul with the divine sparks in it). into the future. We have studied Torah, Midrash, Talmud, Kabbalah, Mussar, and Similarly, he may have to drink his fill of water there. It is for this purpose “the the Hasidic Masters together. Our learning was deepened on many occasions by steps of man are made firm” to travel several hundred miles away – to connect the rich teachings of Rabbi Jill Hammer and many other guest teachers who trav- his soul (to its related sparks) in consuming that bread or drinking that water. eled to us and shared their wisdom. We have davened to new and old melodies in Life is a mystery. It seems that at this time, I am being called to another com- many sacred spaces, both indoors and outdoors in the Berkshire hills. We have munity to fulfill certain concrete needs, but there may likely be other less obvious enjoyed remarkable musical concerts and unique interfaith events. needs, soul needs, of which I am yet unaware. I trust in the process that is un- We have had phenomenal guests supporting our community. I am so deep- folding. And I trust that the Rimon community has developed the inner resources ly grateful to Shir Yaakov Feit, who co-led Friday night services with me for two to support the unfolding of a sustaining Jewish spiritual fellowship. years. The services were magical and inspiring. We enjoyed the generosity and I intend to stay in touch through periodic emails and I welcome you to come musical talents of Lisa Lipkin, Jay Hitt, and Carol Emanuel, who contributed to visit me in Leominster. Kabbalat Shabbat services and to a truly remarkable High Holiday experience last I leave you with some wisdom from Rabindranath Tagore. year. Man is immortal; therefore he must die endlessly. For life is a creative idea; it I am filled with so many mixed feelings but all are dominated by a felt sense of can only find itself in changing forms. gratitude. My original vision was that Rimon would provide many varied oppor- With blessings for the continued blossoming of Jewish spiritual life in tunities for people from any background to access the wealth of Jewish spiritual Berkshire County. teachings and practices. In fact, hundreds of people from all backgrounds have participated in Rimon events. In looking back over these four years, I am deeply Rabba Kaya Stern-Kaufman founded and led Rimon, and was named by The gratified by all that we have accomplished. Forward as one of its most inspiring rabbis in 2015. The BJV would like to wish her As in any organization, there is a core group of dedicated participants. I am happiness and success in the next stage of her journey. For more on Kaya Stern- exceedingly heartened that this core group has expressed the desire and com- Kaufman, see our May 2015 article on her work and spiritual journey at www. mitment to remain connected as a Jewish spiritual community. The Rimon jewishberkshires.org. Re-Visioning Group has been meeting to consider the mission and goals of this

Letters to the Editor

Israeli-founded Businesses Bring Prosperity Scholarship Recipient Expresses Thanks To the Berkshire Jewish Voice: Dear Members of the Jewish Federation Scholarship Committee: I am so happy to share the results as overall business growth in Mas- Thank you so much for the scholarship award. With the high cost of college, of the Massachusetts-Israel 2016 Eco- sachusetts receipt of this scholarship will be helpful. I certainly intend to continue Jewish-re- nomic Impact Study with your read- • MA-Israeli employment growth is lated activities at Williams College and remain a member of the Berkshire County ers. The New England Israel Business growing 5 times as fast as overall greater Jewish community. Council (NEIBC) has prepared this ex- employment growth in Massachu- tensive study presenting the hundreds setts Sincerely, of Israeli businesses in Massachusetts Catherine May and the major impact they are making • Israeli-founded firms secured over on the local economy. $1.2 billion in venture capital from The writer is the 2016 valedictorian at Wachonah Regional High School in Dalton, As Boston has become a major hub 2013-2015, representing 10% of and is one of four recipients of the Henry Simkin and Frances Simkin Schiller and of cyber technology and innovation, it all VC funds raised in Massachu- Dr. Stanley and Faye Simkin Scholarship. is no surprise that the Start-up Nation setts. of Israel has become the perfect part- While these numbers certainly ner for collaboration. We learned in speak for themselves, the study also 2013 that Israeli businesses are bring- highlights businesses like ReWalk, Berkshire ing billions of dollars and thousands Desalitech, and PillCam, which are of jobs into the commonwealth, but we changing the lives of Massachusetts knew then that there was even more citizens through life sciences and social room for growth and cooperation. impact. JAewish publicationA publication of of the the Jewish Jewish Federation Federation of the Berkshires, of the serving Berkshires, V the Berkshires serving and surrounding the ice Berkshires NY, CT and and VT surrounding NY, Some of the key finding of the study I hope you will enjoy the 2016 re- CT and VT include: port. Please find an Executive Summa- • $9.3 billion directly from Israeli ry on the NEIBC’s website here: Published nine times a year by the founded businesses in MA’s 2015 http://neibc.org/. GDP and generating over $18 bil- Jewish Federation of the Berkshires lion in economic benefit to Massa- Best, chusetts – 4% of MA’s total GDP Rachel Goldberg Dara Kaufman: Publisher and Managing Editor Albert Stern: Editor • 9,000 jobs directly from over 200 Director of Community Relations Israeli-founded businesses Consulate General of Israel to Rose Tannenbaum: Graphic Design & Layout New England • MA-Israeli business revenue Jenny Greenfeld: Advertising Sales Representative growth is growing 2 times as fast and Assistant Editor

Editorial opinions expressed in the Berkshire Jewish Voice are those of the newspa- per and not those of any individual. Signed editorials do not represent the view of the newspaper, but rather express the writer’s view. The Berkshire Jewish Voice is under no obligation to accept any advertisement. It does not guarantee the kashrut of any merchandise or service advertised. LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Serves the Jewish community in Berkshire County and neighboring New York, The Berkshire Jewish Voice welcomes signed letters on subjects of interest to the Connecticut, and Vermont. Voluntary subscription donations: $18, $36, $72, $108, Jewish community. Letters are printed upon space availability. The BJV reserves other. the right to edit all letters for content, length, and style. The BJV does not print Berkshire Jewish Voice e-mail: [email protected] anonymous letters, insults, libelous or defamatory statements. Published letters do Phone: (413) 442-4360, ext. 11 Fax (413) 443-6070 not represent the views of the Federation, its board of directors, or the newspaper, but rather express the views of their authors. For verification purposes, please in- clude full name, home address, and a day and evening telephone number. Send letters to: Berkshire Jewish Voice, 196 South Street, Pittsfield, MA 01201, or email: [email protected]. Paid advertisements do not necessarily represent the opinions of the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires or its members. Page 4 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org August 5 to September 18, 2016

Young Judaism Past BBYO International N’siah Reflects on Jewish Foundations and Future Asiprations By Lauren Keats

[This article is adapted from the address Miss This year pushed me out of my comfort zone, however, as I traveled from small Keats delivered at the Jewish Women’s Foundation towns in the US state of Georgia all the way to the capital of the country of Geor- of the Berkshires Annual Meeting on June 27.] gia. I realized that I had taken for granted the ease with which I was Jewish and When my family received our invitation to this was able to freely practice. meeting in the mail, I especially gravitated towards One especially difficult piece of my year was helping regions and chapters the theme of your lunch, “Faces of Our Future.” I recruit members into BBYO. With their strong programs and outreach, BBYO and was drawn towards the “future” aspect, realizing other Jewish youth groups like it should, in theory, have no issue recruiting. We that the focus was directed at Jewish millennials provide leadership positions, new and unique skills, and friendships to last people like me. Whenever I describe or envision the fu- a lifetime. However, in many larger communities recruiting one new member ture, I do so in terms my potential children, grand- would take weeks on end. (Recruitment in communities with smaller Jewish pop- children, and even great-grandchildren. How will ulations was easier.) their society and world function? What will their As I spoke to different teens, it wasn’t necessarily the programs or events of- lives be like? I try to recognize how the actions fered, but rather the word Jewish. BBYO was a Jewish youth group, and teens felt and steps I take today shape that seemingly distant future, though admittedly, I uncomfortable with that. In contrast, organizations such as Young Life, a preva- sometimes fail to do so. lent and expansive Christian Youth Group, seem to have no issues with recruit- This past year, I served as the International N’siah, or president for girls, of ment or retention. So we were forced to consider that maybe it wasn’t our events BBYO. What was formerly B’nai B’rith Youth Organization, BBYO is a pluralistic that we needed to be worried about, but rather the stigma around Judaism as a Jewish youth organization that focuses on engaging more Jewish teens in more whole and the foundation for the Jewish life that we are trying to establish. meaningful Jewish experiences. With a history spanning 92 years, BBYO cur- Judaism has never exactly been the “cool religion.” For the past 5,000 years, rently exists in over 35 countries, has around 20,000 high school members, and this has been a constant thread. Even our inception is based in going off the engages over 80,000 teens worldwide annually. While BBYO leadership positions norms of society, then polytheism, and beginning the new practice of monothe- and chapter membership differ by gender, everything else overlaps. ism. Abraham was the true revolutionary of his time – wasn’t he? This characteri- As International N’siah, I took a gap year between high school and college. zation can be continued throughout our history. During my term, I traveled to over 15 countries and 22 states to serve BBYO’s Unfortunately, I haven’t seen this mindset change that much today. Beginning chapters, regions, and communities as an ambassador, supporter, role model, with elementary school, kids are required to attend the dreaded Sunday Hebrew and cheerleader. I adapted to and School. The struggle and anguish provided whatever role the community experienced by these children does needed and expected of me. In addi- I didn’t simply become International N’siah overnight. not set the best foundation for Ju- tion, I had the privilege of attending daism within itself. During Christ- various Jewish events such as the As a proud Jewish millennial, my foundation and mas, there aren’t fun lights or great Jewish Federations of North America support system served me well. movies, and even Adam Sandler General Assembly, the Union of Reform highlights the fact that he wrote the Judaism Biennial, and AIPAC’s Poli- Chanukah songs just so that the cy Conference. Another important part of my year was collaborating with other Jewish kids wouldn’t feel left out. Even in my own family, the “Christmas Jammy Jewish organizations. Whether it was with youth groups such as NFTY, college Song,” a YouTube sensation of a family dancing in their Christmas PJs, was all the programs like Hillel, or young adult programs like the Shinshinim in Israel or the rage, not a Chanukah anthem. While bar and bat mitzvah season is popular and JDC-Entwine Fellowship, I was fortunate to also have the ability to work with exciting, the focus is no longer on the religious significance, but rather the perk of a other passionate Jews on some of our shared goals such as tikkun olam, Jewish party. Studies even show that involvement in Jewish life post bar and bat mitzvah continuity, and Zionism. drops by 80 percent. In 2013, the Pew Research Center did another study to ana- Throughout my year, I was able to listen to various narratives of Jewish life lyze the Jewish people, and the findings shook the Jewish world at its core, as they around the world and immerse myself in different cultures. In my hometown of found that assimilation was ascendant and participation in Judaism on the decline. Scarsdale, NY, Jewish life is prevalent and seamlessly integrated into daily events. There is nothing wrong or bad about celebrating another culture. However, our Whether it is running into my cantor in the supermarket, or seeing more han- challenge now seems to be how to generate more of an interest in our own heri- nukiahs than Christmas lights during the holidays, my religion never fazed me tage. and always took a place of pride in my identity. I was sheltered from anti- I didn’t simply become International N’siah overnight. As a proud Jewish Semitism and anti-Zionism, learning about the two from a fortunate distance. millennial, my foundation and support system served me well. Beginning at age three, I attended the preschool at Westchester Reform Temple, where I was able to familiarize myself with the holidays and rabbis and began to form Jewish friend- ships and my own Jewish community. As I entered Hebrew school, my parents Third Annual enrolled the family in Sharing Shabbat, a unique Saturday morning program at our temple that begins with family service, continues with an oneg, and concludes with classes for children and Torah study and discussion for parents. Each week, two featured families participated by reading from the Torah and writing a D’var, or by sponsoring the oneg. While many children focused on what chocolate milk would be at oneg rather than what would be taught in class that day, those posi- tive Jewish memories began to create their Jewish identities. The parents of Sharing Shabbat also placed a great emphasis on Judaism by sharing special memories every week. As I graduated from Sharing Shabbat in the 6th grade, I went on to become bat mitzvah, enrolled in Hebrew school post bat Sunday, Sept. 18, 1:30 pm mitzvah, became confirmed, and even became a madricha (student teacher) for at Hevreh of Southern Berkshire the Sharing Shabbat classes until I graduated from high school. The solidifying piece to my Jewish identity was BBYO, where I was able to explore the different options of Judaism through pluralism and define what being a Jew meant to me. BBYO membership isn’t shrinking, but rather has grown every year for over An afternoon of inspiring presentations 5 years. It’s not that Jewish opportunities don’t exist, but rather that millennials by Berkshire visionaries and trendsetters have grown accustomed to a weak foundation that causes them pull away from the religion. As I look into the future of Judaism and think about Jewish continui- John Downing Nancy Kalodner ty, the most effective and successful approach has been providing smooth tran- CEO, Soldier On (national organization Berkshire Realtor, teacher and sitions into different areas of life. BBYO and other high school groups re-excite fighting veteran homelessness) arts supporter teens after their bar and bat mitzvah experiences. Next phase programs such as Hillel, Moishe House, Birthright, and others enable young adults to connect with Gwendolyn Hampton Mary Pope Osborne the religion in personalized ways. VanSant Literacy advocate and author While my time in BBYO is over, I’m already registered for an Early Move in CEO and founder of of the Magic Tree House series for College Program through Hillel on my campus, and I plan to stay involved there. Multicultural Bridge children As Jews focusing on the future, we need to collaborate, improve, and strengthen every Jewish experience. We need to make sure that Jews are finding their iden- John Hockenberry William “Smitty” Pignatelli tity and having unique experiences that solely pertain to the religion. We need to Author, journaist, and award-winning Massachusetts State Representative continue to make Judaism cool – and work to remove the stigmas surrounding it. for the 4th Berkshire District public radio host I’m proud that my Jewish future is bright and that I already have a wealth of unbelievable Jewish memories. I want to acknowledge that I am not alone in my A reception with the speakers will follow the program. participation and passionate involvement. These outlets and places exist through- out Judaism; our task now is ensuring that Jews take advantage of them. Once $15 online (registration at Hevreh.org/BerkshireSpeaks) we achieve that, the faces of our future will be proud of their religion, culture, and $18 at door (check or cash) ethnicity, and those studies and trends will be reversed for good.

Lauren Keats will be a freshman at George Washington University. She is the granddaughter of Anne Schnesel, who serves on the board of the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires and is a founding member of the Jewish Women’s Foundation of Berkshire County.

270 State Road, Great Barrington, MA • (413) 528-6378 You may request that the Berkshire Jewish Voice be mailed to your home. Just email us at MAJOR SPONSORS: WGBY Public TV for Western New England • The Levin Family and LympheDIVAS • The Bookloft • Carlson Propane • The Schnesel Family Foundation [email protected] for information. Av-Elul 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 5 Your Federation Presents

MID-EAST UPDATE, continued from page 1 “Is Peace Possible? Israelis School of Advanced Interna- Connecting With Community Series / & Palestinians: A New Par- tional Studies, and served as a adigm” is the subject of this senior advisor to US Secretary year’s Mid-East Update. Ma- of State John Kerry during the Kosher Hot Lunch kovsky and al-Omari, both of 2013-2014 Israeli-Palestin- Programs in the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires’ Connecting With Community series are whom have served as advisors ian Negotiations. He regularly free and start at 10:45 a.m. most Mondays and Thursdays at Congregation Knesset Israel (16 Colt to high-level political leaders contributes to the New York Road, Pittsfield). Programs are followed by a kosher hot lunch. Lunch is a $2 suggested donation working to resolve the conflict, Times, The Jerusalem Post, for adults over 60 years of age or $7 for all others. Advance reservations are required for lunch and will share and discuss the dif- and Foreign Policy. can be made by calling (413) 442-2200 before 9 a.m. on the day of the program. fering perspectives each side In a March 2015 article For further information on all programs, please call Nancy Maurice Rogers, program director, at brings to the current situation. for the website Politico that (413) 442-4360, ext. 15. For lunch menus, please see page 21. Ghaith al-Omari, Senior al-Omari and Makovsky co-au- Fellow at the Washington thored with former ambassa- Institute for Near East Policy, dor Dennis Ross, they as- previously served as executive sessed the Israel/Palestinian director at the American Task state of affairs as follows: Force on Palestine. He held “In the old game of chicken, MAIMONIDES SOCIETY, various positions within the two cars race toward each other continued from page 1 Palestinian Authority, includ- and at the last second one veers ing director of the Interna- away to avoid a collision. Today, do not miss this unique oppor- with Project Hope, an interna- health care personnel – physi- tional Relations Department the Israelis and Palestinians tunity!” says Stuart Masters, tional humanitarian organiza- cians, dentists, pharmacists, in the Office of the Palestinian are engaged in a new game of MD, chair of the Maimonides tion providing medical assis- optometrists, nurses, physical President, and advisor to for- chicken but as they accelerate Society. tance to developing countries.” & occupational therapists, and mer Prime Minister Mahmoud toward each other, they have Masters adds: “The health He will also speak of the others – will find this Maimon- Abbas. In these capacities, missed the reality that there is care professions have tradi- ethical issues that have aris- ides Society talk both inspir- he provided advice on foreign a gorge between them and they tionally attracted so many en, the consequences of the ing and relevant to their own policy — especially vis-à-vis are each in danger of driving Jews – this true over the cen- Orphan Drug Act, and the re- work.” the United States and Israel — off the cliff. If there is a task turies and around the world. lationship of the Gaucher gene Dr. Kolodny has been and security. He has extensive for American diplomacy now, Meeting together in this way to Parkinson disease. “semi-retired” and living in experience in the Palestin- it is to try to get each off their allows us to further align our Dr. Kolodny writes: “Gauch- the Berkshires since 2012. He ian-Israeli peace process, self-destructive path.” values as both Jews and heal- er disease is among the most collects stamps with a Judaic having been an advisor to the Has their view changed in ers, and raise consciousness common inherited diseases connection from all countries Palestinian negotiating team the 18 months since those about the local, national, and of Ashkenazi Jews, but is not and is a member of the Berk- throughout the permanent words were published? Has a international impact we can very well known. This lipid shire Chapter of the Society status negotiations (1999– new paradigm emerged that have through our professions storage disease was first de- of Israel Philatelists (SIP), the 2001). In that capacity, he can offer peace and put aside and by supporting the work of scribed in France in 1882, but oldest active chapter of SIP participated in various negoti- the tragic conflict? What can organizations like the Federa- the actual cause remained a in the United States (and an ating rounds, most notably at the US do? tion.” mystery until 1962 and an ef- affiliate of the Jewish Feder- the Camp David summit and Join al-Omari and Ma- fective treatment only became ation of the Berkshires). He the Taba talks. kovsky as they take on these Featured Speaker available 25 years ago. The shares this and other hobbies David Makovsky, Ziegler and other questions at the Since 1967, Dr. Edwin story of Gaucher disease is a including gardening, cooking, Distinguished Fellow and Federation’s Mid-East Update Kolodny, a neurologist and fascinating tale, from its mode photography, and travel with Director of the Project on the on September 18. geneticist has been personally of transmission in families and his wife Roselyn, their two Middle East Peace Process at involved in Gaucher disease its effects on blood cells and sons and two daughters, and the Washington Institute for IF YOU GO research as a clinician-sci- organs to the discoveries lead- twelve grandchildren. Near East Policy, is the co-au- entist at several prestigious ing to the abnormal enzyme Programs are free and open to thor with Ambassador Dennis academic research centers. and gene. For More Information the public. Ross of the 2009 Washing- He writes that his talk on “Finally, after more than 30 For additional information ton Post bestseller, Myths, Williamstown, 3 p.m. “will describe many remark- years of one man’s determined and to RSVP for the Maimon- Illusions, and Peace: Finding Williams College, Brooks Rogers able insights gleaned from my effort, a revolutionary new ides Society Meeting, please a New Direction for America Recital Hall at Bernard Music involvement with affected pa- treatment method was devel- contact Margo Golos at jfb. in the Middle East. His 2011 Center, 54 Chapin Hall Drive, tients and their families from oped that has since spawned a developmentofficer@verizon. maps on alternative territorial Williamstown, MA. diverse backgrounds, with the whole biopharma industry.” net or (413) 442-4360, ext. 19. solutions to the Israeli-Pales- Lenox, 7:30 p.m. pharmaceutical industry, and Adds Dr. Kolodny: “All tinian conflict were reprinted Shakespeare & Company, Tina by the New York Times in the Graphic Design Packer Playhouse, 70 Kemble paper’s first interactive treat- www.tgo.com Street, Lenox, MA ment of an op-ed. He is also For more information, call the an adjunct professor in Middle Barbara Greenfeld East studies at Johns Hop- Jewish Federation of the Berk- Proof of ad for: ______Please respond by ______kins University’s Paul H. Nitze shires, (413) 442-4360, ext. 10. Like us on Facebook: Publication: ______BJV May 2016 to: (Tel) 413/ 528-0328 (Fax) 413/ 528-0328 [email protected] • Jewish Federation of the Berkshires [email protected] ❏ For further information on all Jewish Federation of Send• PJ to: Library______Berkshire County Changes req’d. & new proof the Berkshires programs, please call Nancy Maurice No. of pages (inc. cover): ______1 ❏ Approved as is. ❏ Approved with corrections as noted. Rogers, Program Director, at (413) 442-4360, ext. 15. Proof sent: ______4/25/16 Proof # ______1 Approved by: ______

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New Home? Second Home? Retirement Home? Let me show you… The Berkshires Barbara K. Greenfeld ABR, C-CREC, CRS, GREEN, RSPS, SRES Broker Associate • Lic. in MA & NY 413-441-5986 [email protected] Roberts & Associates Realty, inc. Page 6 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org August 5 to September 18, 2016 Your Federation Presents “The Process of Aging” – An “Halachah, Sex, Lies, and Darwin” Intergenerational Discussion Converge, August 18

and Support Group, August On Thursday, August 18 at inent Research Professor, 10:45 a.m., the Jewish Feder- Department of Educational 29 and September 19 ation of the Berkshires pres- and Counseling Psychology, ents “Halachah, Sex, Lies, and University at Albany, State On August 29 and Sep- Darwin,” a talk by Professor University of New York. He tember 19, both Mondays, at Sigmund Tobias. This free pro- has published extensively in 10:45 a.m., the Jewish Feder- gram at Congregation Knesset the scientific and profession- ation of the Berkshires pres- Israel, 16 Colt Road in Pitts- al literature in the fields of ents “The Process of Aging,” field is part of the Federation’s instructional psychology and with therapist Maggie Bittman. Connecting With Community educational technology. He This free program at Congre- series. and his family survived the gation Knesset Israel, 16 Colt Dr. Tobias will describe the Holocaust by fleeing to Shang- Road in Pittsfield is part of the rules about sexual relations hai, an experience described Federation’s Connecting With established by Halachah, in his memoir Strange Haven: Professor Sigmund Tobias Community series. the collective body of Jewish A Jewish Childhood in Wartime Explaining her outlook and religious laws derived from the Shanghai. approach, Bittman writes: Maggie Bittman written and oral Torah. He will “From birth, we begin to age discuss some of the reasons with Time. Along the way, “Should I Remain in My Home for these laws, as well as will IF YOU GO we develop strategies to help degree to which they are ad- manage the stressors that or Downsize” to “Aloneness” Sponsor: Jewish Federation of the Berkshires / Connecting With to “Staying Active in Your hered to. Dr. Tobias will bring Community come with living life – those the themes together with a ‘existence pains’ or ‘existential Community” and many more Venue: Congregation Knesset Israel beyond. naturalistic interpretation for stressors. Along the way we these rules. Date & Time: Thursday, August 18 at 10:45 a.m., followed by lunch find meaning and purpose, Sigmund Tobias is Em- (see page 21). experience aloneness, confront IF YOU GO mortality, and develop self will. Sponsor: Jewish Federation “Within this context, partic- of the Berkshires / Connecting ipants will discuss, share, and With Community offer support to one another.” Questioning Return – A Reading with These discussions are Venue: Congregation Knesset open to anyone interested in Israel author Beth Kissileff, August 22 sharing in this universal topic. Date & Time: August 29 and On Monday, August 22 at slowly fades. Abruptly, she This is a monthly program September 19, both Mondays, 10:45 a.m., the Jewish Feder- is forced to realize that her that Maggie leads and the dis- at 10:45 a.m., followed by lunch ation of the Berkshires wel- fate isn’t separate from that cussions broadly range from (see page 21). comes author Beth Kissileff, of people around her after a who will read from and answer student she interviews com- questions about her debut mits a horrible act right after Where Have All the Small novel Questioning Return. This their conversation. Tragedy free program at Congregation leads Wendy to unforeseen Stores Gone? Find Out Knesset Israel, 16 Colt Road in places to seek knowledge and Pittsfield is part of the Federa- love. Though Wendy Goldberg tion’s Connecting With Com- planned to ask questions of September 1 munity series. others, she finds the ones that Beth Kissileff On Thursday, September 1 Wendy Goldberg, the pro- truly matter are those she at 10:45 a.m., the Jewish Fed- tagonist of Questioning Return, asks of herself. eration of the Berkshires hosts has it all planned out. She’s Beth Kissileff is a fiction Professor Leonard Quart, who going to Israel to research writer and journalist who IF YOU GO and write on newly religious spent two years studying in will talk about the challenges Sponsor: Jewish Federation American Jews who live there. Jerusalem. She edited the facing small businesses in of the Berkshires / Connecting The novel follows the progress anthology Reading Genesis New York City. This free pro- With Community gram at Congregation Knesset of Wendy’s year abroad, the (Bloomsbury, 2016), a collec- immersive experience of Israel tion of writing on the Book of Venue: Congregation Knesset Israel, 16 Colt Road in Pitts- Israel field is part of the Federation’s and the rhythm of life there Genesis by academics. This is Date & Time: Monday, August Connecting With Community proving both disorienting and her first novel; she is at work 22 at 10:45 a.m., followed by series. satisfying, in turn. Over the on a short story collection, a lunch (see page 21). Leonard Quart will speak course of the year, her desire volume of linked stories and to remain an outside observ- a second novel. She lives in about the small businesses Leonard Quart in New York City and their er in her new surroundings Pittsburgh with her family. precarious times. Retail rents ing editor to Cineaste, and the are up in Manhattan by 40 co-author of American Film percent since 2005. Huge, and Society Since 1945 – 4th nondescript chain stores and Edition (Praeger, 2001). He Life Getting You Down? Try “Jewish Humor banks have replaced small also contributes to the Berk- Mom and Pop and specialty shire Eagle. as an Antidote,” September 12 stores. Quart will analyze what On Monday, September Ph.D. from Indiana University, has happened to small shops, IF YOU GO 12 at 10:45 a.m., the Jewish Macht has taught Israeli, Yid- why France has been able to Sponsor: Jewish Federation Federation of the Berkshires dish, and German Literature, preserve a small store culture, welcomes you to join educator, as well as Jewish mysticism and what politicians are doing, of the Berkshires / Connecting With Community writer, and raconteur Dick at the college level. Himself a with little success, to hold the Macht for “Jewish Humor: An director, Macht has also been Venue: Congregation Knesset line against the overwhelming Antidote for the Harsh World an instructor of drama and Israel surge of chain stores. of Reality.” This free program acting at a number of academ- Quart is professor emeri- Date & Time: Thursday, Septem- at Congregation Knesset ic venues. Presently, Macht tus of cinema studies at Grad ber 1 at 10:45 a.m., followed by Israel, 16 Colt Road in Pitts- lectures at synagogues, elder Center CUNY and the College lunch (see page 21). field is part of the Federation’s hostels, adult summer camps, of Staten Island, a contribut- Connecting With Community and continuing education series. programs. Macht will present the wisdom and wit of ‘Jewish IF YOU GO ERKSHIRE Humor’ and while explaining B humor – and especially the Sponsor: Jewish Federation Dick Macht OOFING & Jewish brand – he will light- of the Berkshires / Connecting R en the load by affectionately With Community UTTER CO. communicating insights that Venue: Congregation Knesset G drape laughter on the logic Israel 413-298-1029413 298 1029 of despair. With a B.A. from Date & Time: Monday, Septem- www.BGRCo.net Dartmouth College,an M.A. ber 12 at 10:45 a.m., followed CEDAR ROOF from Duke University, and a by lunch (see page 21). STANDING SEAM METAL ASPHALT SHINGLES Written Estimates • Fully Insured • Owner Installed MA Lic. #145878 SEAMLESS GUTTERS Copper • Aluminum • Gutter Covers

“We like your smile when we’re done” A+ S31033 Av-Elul 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 7 Your Federation Presents “Julius Rosenwald: How One Man Effected Staged Reading – Hiding Change,” August 8 Horst, September 8

On Monday, August 8 Laura Ferber- On Thursday, September 8 life Fred (Horst) Ferber. In at 10:45 a.m., the Jewish Hazen’s grandparents at 10:45 a.m., the Jewish Holland in 1942, 12 year old Federation of the Berkshires and father were rescued Federation of the Berkshires Horst Ferber went into hiding welcomes Laura Ferber-Ha- from Nazi Germany by welcomes Laura Ferber-Hazen for 3 years. Through heroic zen speaking about her great Rosenwald, one of the and community actors, who efforts, the Dutch hid 30,000 uncle Julius Rosenwald, the many Jewish families will perform the play Hiding Jews, most of whom survived. entrepreneur who made Sears, he helped get out of Horst, which is based a true Horst Ferber was one of them. Roebuck & Company a mail Germany. She is also Holocaust story. This free pro- Fortunately for him, he did not order giant. This free pro- the granddaughter of gram at Congregation Knesset obey his deportation orders. gram at Congregation Knesset Laura Rosenwald, her Israel, 16 Colt Road in Pitts- For more on Laura, see the Israel, 16 Colt Road in Pitts- namesake, who was the field is part of the Federation’s adjacent listing for the August field is part of the Federation’s sister of Julius Rosen- Connecting With Community 8 program, left. She is the Connecting With Community wald. She is an actress, series. daughter of a Holocaust survi- series. set designer, and di- Laura Ferber-Hazen and vor and escapee Harold Ferber, Julius Rosenwald was the rector and has recently community actors will present and she says her dream is to son of first-generation German become the executive a play reading from this true carry on the brave, intelligent, Jewish immigrants who be- director of Development story that became both a book and giving nature of her influ- came the business partner of in the United States for and a play by Becky White. ential lineage. Sears, Roebuck and Company. Friends of Herzog Hos- Laura Ferber-Hazen The story was told by the real Rosenwald eventually fash- pital in Jerusalem. ioned this business into the IF YOU GO greatest mail order firm in the Sponsor: Jewish Federation of the Berkshires / Connecting With world. As a philanthropist, he IF YOU GO revolutionized American public Community school education by funding Sponsor: Jewish Federation of the Berkshires / Connecting With Venue: Congregation Knesset Israel Community over 5,300 schools dedicated Date & Time: Thursday, September 8 at 10:45 a.m., followed by exclusively to the education of Venue: Congregation Knesset Israel lunch (see page 21). African Americans in the early Date & Time: Monday, August 8 at 10:45 a.m., followed by lunch 20th century. (see page 21).

For further information on all Jewish Federation of the Berk- shires programs, please call Nancy Maurice Rogers, Program Director, at (413) 442-4360, ext. 15. Page 8 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org August 5 to September 18, 2016 Your Federation Presents Workshop for Health – “Our Meet Shakespeare & Company’s Shylock, Wise and Intelligent Bodies,” August 15

September 15 On Monday, August 15 at 10:45 a.m., the Jewish Federa- On Thursday, September tion of the Berkshires will host 15 at 10:45 a.m., the Jewish Jonathan Epstein, who plays Federation of the Berkshires’ Shylock in this summer’s social worker Francine Li- Shakespeare & Company cata will conduct a wellness presentation of The Merchant workshop titled “Our Wise of Venice. This free program at and Intelligent Bodies.” This Congregation Knesset Isra- free program at Congregation el, 16 Colt Road in Pittsfield Knesset Israel, 16 Colt Road in is part of the Federation’s Pittsfield is part of the Federa- Connecting With Community tion’s Connecting With Com- series. munity series. Epstein will perform selec- Says Licata: “The body is tions from Shylock’s memora- often left out of traditional ble speeches, and also discuss psychotherapy modalities. the character with a Jewish However, more body-oriented context. Epstein has written: therapies propose that our “People often ask whether Frannie Licata, Federation postures, gestures, movements Merchant isn’t an anti-Se- social worker and actions are physical mitic play. Certainly there’s PHOTO:JOHN DOLAN habits which we have ‘proce- er College in New York City. bitter anti-Semitism in it, and Jonathan Epstein as Shylock durally learned’ from our past She has worked primarily with certainly it’s very painful to experiences. These chronic senior clients since moving to be called a ‘dog Jew’ even in a off-Broadway and at scores of Elliot Norton Award and is an physical patterns influence the Berkshires in 2006, first at fiction, but what would make regional theatres around the Associate Professor of Classi- how we perceive our present Fairview Commons and, since it anti-Semitic, I think, is if country including Berkshire cal Performance at the FSU/ experiences as well as our March 2016, with the Feder- the audience walked out of Theatre Festival and ART He Asolo Conservatory for Actor current thoughts, memories, ation. the performance more liable is a two-time recipient of the Training. emotions, self-perception and to prejudice than when they identity. IF YOU GO walked in— and I honestly “In this workshop we will believe that the reverse is the IF YOU GO begin to explore how the body Sponsor: Jewish Federation case.” Sponsor: Jewish Federation of the Berkshires / Connecting With is an essential source for im- of the Berkshires / Connecting Epstein is in his 29th Community proved and ‘embodied’ physi- With Community season at Shakespeare & cal and mental health.” Venue: Congregation Knesset Company, performing in Venue: Congregation Knesset Israel Licata, a Queens, NY na- Israel more than 50 productions. Date & Time: Monday, August 15 at 10:45 a.m., followed by lunch tive, has been a social worker Date & Time: Thursday, Septem- He has performed on and (see page 21). since 1997, obtaining her ber 15 at 10:45 a.m., followed degree from the Silberman by lunch (see page 21). School of Social Work at Hunt-

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One Story – O ne Life Your Federation Dollars at Work

This past March, the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires allocated over $150,000 to help strengthen Jewish life and care for Jews in need in Israel and Overseas. The largest portion of those dollars went to support the critical services of the American Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), The Jewish Agency For Israel, and World ORT. Each month we will high- light the story of one individual you have never met, but whose life has been changed forever due to your generosity.

How a Chance Meeting Led to Big Changes in Ukranian Teen’s Jewish Journey

Sonia Volovik doesn’t like to Volovik developed “Sundays with Sonia,” a chance to learn about Jewish think about what her life would and Yiddish literature in a coffeehouse-type setting. Little Lev Timofeev, 12, look like if her mother hadn’t run pioneered “Jewish Quest,” a scavenger hunt around Kharkov or, more often, into Alla Magas last year in a su- the city’s Beit Dan JCC to learn new information about Jewish holidays and permarket in Kharkov, Ukraine. traditions.“Automatic Rosh Hodesh” is the brainchild of 15-year-old Dasha Back then, the 16-year-old Achkasova — a chance for games and informal learning connected to Jewish had little knowledge of or connec- art and dance at the celebration of each new month. tion to her Jewish identity — un- Alla Magas said she views her role as something of a coach or cheer- til Magas, the American Jewish leader: It’s her job to empower the teens she works with, most of whom are Joint Distribution Committee between 13 and 17. (JDC) youth coordinator in the “We need to build a new generation who knows how many ways there are former Soviet Union (FSU) and to be Jewish. ‘Open your mind,’ I tell them. They need to find their own per- the Active Jewish Teens (AJT) sonal Jewish story,” she said. “AJT never tells teenagers ‘no.’ We say, ‘Yes, project coordinator, prompted her and here’s how we can help you.’” mother near the produce aisle: AJT is divided into a few different tracks: AJTeam, an international “You’re Jewish, right? And you madrich (counselor) school for graduates of the youth movement; AJTravel, have a teenage daughter?” a chance for teens from across the FSU to visit their peers in new cities and Now, Volovik is president of AJT, the JDC youth movement that stretches make new friends; AJT Contest, monthly contests between participants and across the FSU, impacting more than 2,600 teens in more than 50 cities in cities, with a trip to the JDC camp at Szarvas or the youth leadership camp Ukraine, Belarus, Moldova, and beyond. in Bulgaria as the prize; and AJT Government, which gives teens a chance “We need to build a new generation who knows how many ways there are to be elected to AJT parliament or become AJT president and influence the to be Jewish.” programmatic part of the movement, and then make a presentation at the “For me, AJT was a Jewish renaissance. AJT gives us knowledge we BBYO IC. never had before, and then we share that knowledge with our Jewish circle When she looks at her own city and at the hometowns of the friends she’s of friends,” Volovik said. “AJT gives us not a dream but action. Now I know I made during her presidency, Volovik said she knows AJT is the engine that want to tell Jewish stories in every corner of the world.” will power Jewish life in the former Soviet Union for decades to come. And, through its affiliation with BBYO via JDC, AJT is able to give a few “It broadens our horizons. We understand that every day, every seminar, Jewish teenagers from the FSU a chance each year to participate in BBYO’s every conference, we learn something new about ourselves,” she said. “AJT International Convention (IC), and become part of the global Jewish teen is our future because AJT changes lives.” movement. And when it comes to her own Jewish journey, Volovik said she knows Volovik began her time at AJT with the movement’s annual Eco-Festival, she’s pulled off something amazing. a summer camping get-together where teens receive a gentle introduction to “In synagogue, they told me that in the fourth generation of a family that Jewish culture and tradition through song, dance, social action, and more. lost its Judaism, the family will find it again,” she said. “Now I know that Each teen participates in AJT for one year before “graduating”, and all was my job — to come back home.” of the movement’s members are expected to complete a volunteer project to benefit their local Jewish community, too.

Sotto Voce Star Annette Miller Speaks Up, August 25

On Thursday, August 25 at 10:45 a.m., the Jewish Federation of the Berkshires will host Annette Miller, who is starring in this summer’s Shakespeare & Company presen- tation of playwright Nilo Cruz’ Sotto Voce. This free program at Congregation Knesset Israel, 16 Colt Road in Pittsfield is part of the Federation’s Connecting With Community series. Annette Miller has performed with Shakespeare & Company for the past 19 seasons, with roles that include Ruth Steiner in Collected Stories, Martha Mitchell in Martha Mitchell Calling, Maria Callas in Master Class, and the origi- It’s all included at PineHill. nal award-winning performance as Golda Meir from Golda’s Balcony, directed by Daniel Gidron. She’ll talk about her At PineHill, the only surprises we believe in are surprise role in Sotto Voce, Pulitzer Prize winning playwright Nilo birthday celebrations, surprise outings, and our chef’s surprise Cruz’s three person drama about aging writer Bernadette desserts. Our residents enjoy an all-inclusive service fee, Kahn, who lost the Jewish love of her life after he was covering the services you need, for one predictable price. denied entry to Cuba and Miami as a passenger on the in- famous “Voyage of the Damned” ship the MS St. Louis, and Compare Our Care – Discover all that’s included at returned to Europe. PineHill: Please see the article on page 25 for more on Annette • Personal Care, plus extra • Transportation, Miller and Sotto Voce. Annette Miller care when needed housekeeping, and • Medication management laundry • Activity programs, fitness IF YOU GO • Three flavorful, nutritious meals daily center, and much more Sponsor: Jewish Federation of the Berkshires / Connecting With Community Venue: Congregation Knesset Israel Call today to discover the value of All-Inclusive Date & Time: Thursday, August 25 at 10:45 a.m., followed by lunch (see page 21). Assisted Living. 235 Walker Street Lenox, MA 01240 413-637-7000 www.kimballfarms.org We’re Perfecting the Art of Superior Care.

Job#: BKF150501 De: mdk Colors Notes: Size: 3.66x5 Ae: kr C M Y K Publication: Date: 05.11.2015 Client: Kimball Farms Rnd~Ver: r01•vA NA NA NA NA 1017 TURNPIKE STREET, CANTON, MA 02021 • (P) 781.828.9290 • (F) 781.828.9419 • WWW.TRIADADVERTISING.COM Page 10 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org August 5 to September 18, 2016 Your Federation Presents Volunteers are Vital! Jewish Community Comes Together Before You Know It… for Shabbat Across the Berkshires, By Susan Frisch-Lehrer, Coordinator of Volunteers and PJ Library What a summer this has been! can do this mitzvah together. September 9 Before you know it we’ll be busy with We know that it’s not just the gift the beginning of the school year, High bag, but the visit, as well. Some of our NORTH ADAMS – On Friday, Sep- This always special event is spon- Holidays, and the beauty of a Berk- older folks live by themselves or are in tember 9, at 7 p.m., Shabbat Across sored by the Jewish Federation of the shire fall. a facility and rarely have visitors. These the Berkshires will bring together Berkshires, along with Berkshire Min- Once again, we will be bringing are truly acts of gemilut chasadim (acts members of the Jewish communi- yan, Congregation Ahavath Sholom, some joy to our local seniors with gifts of loving kindness). Your visit means ty from throughout the county for a Congregation Beth Israel, Congregation of challot, honey and this year, we’re the world to them! joyous Kabbalat Shabbat service in the Knesset Israel, Hevreh of Southern adding a small container of apple- Enjoy the rest of summer and I look sanctuary of Congregation Beth Israel, Berkshire, Temple Anshe Amunim, and sauce. We tried apples a few years ago forward to hearing and seeing many of hosted by Rabbi Rachel Barenblat, Berkshire Hills Hadassah. and were asked by both recipients and you at our upcoming programs. with participation by area rabbis and For more information, please call senior facility staff that it was difficult leaders. A festive oneg will follow the the Federation at (413)442-4360, ext. for many to eat them. B’shalom, service. 10. We need many volunteers to help Susan Frisch Lehrer, with delivering the gift bags. If you are Coordinator of Volunteers and available and interested please contact PJ Library me and I’ll share with you all of the de- (413) 442-4360, ext. 14 or tails. We especially like it when families [email protected]

FAMILY CONCERT, continued from page 1 Together, they tour the country as a duo and with their larger rock band Nefesh Mountain (which pairs bluegrass with Jewish themes, though for adult audiences), playing over 100 Linking Young dates a year. Jewish Women in The “Diaper Project” Berkshire Community Diaper Project (BDCP) in collabora- Their Fight Against tion with Austen Riggs Center and Berkshire Psychoanalytic Institute, was established to raise funds to provide diapers for Breast Cancer parents who struggle to afford them for their children, since diaper need has been correlated with significant depression in parents and with potential mental health issues for children. The “Diaper Project” has established multiple liaisons with (866) 474-2774 community organizations. www.sharsheret.org Diapers and wet wipes are needed most. Donations are dis- tributed through community health and outreach programs throughout south and central Berkshire County. Av-Elul 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 11 Your Federation Presents

“Refugee Resettlement: “Jewish Literacy: Seeking Out New Exploring an Ethic of Frontiers,” at the September 9 Knosh & Hospitality,” August 11 Knowledge

On Thursday, August 11 Author Richard Michelson will put you on the Spock, and also at 10:45 a.m., the Jewish share his own Jewish journey Federation of the Berkshires will host Deirdre Griffin, the GREAT BARRINGTON – On director of the New American Friday, September 9, Knosh Program at Jewish Family & Knowledge will host noted Service of Western Massachu- children’s literature author setts in Springfield. Her topic Richard Michelson, who will will be “Refugee Resettlement: share stories about his friend- Exploring an Ethic of Hospi- ship with the late actor Leon- tality.” This free program at ard Nimoy and his own Jewish Congregation Knesset Isra- journey in a presentation titled el, 16 Colt Road in Pittsfield “Jewish Literacy: Seeking Out is part of the Federation’s New Frontiers.” Connecting With Community This Jewish Federation of series. the Berkshires program will Discussing events very take place at Hevreh of South- much in the news, Griffin ern Berkshire at 10:45 a.m., will provide and overview of Deirdre Griffin and will be followed by lunch. the United States Refugee The long road to publica- Resettlement Program, which law and social services that tion of Richard Michelson’s is a collaboration of the U.S. led her to join the JFS team latest book, Fascinating: The Richard Michelson and Nimoy, at the actor’s 80th birthday party Department of State and the in welcoming refugees from Life of Leonard Nimoy will be United Nations. She will de- around the world to rebuild the focus of this program. Richard Michelson’s many Michelson’s Jewish themed scribe the resettlement work their lives in Western Massa- Michelson will also talk about books for children, teens and books include As Good As at JFS, which has welcomed chusetts. how Jewish picture books adults have been listed among Anybody: Martin Luther King refugees from Somalia, Bhu- spread Jewish values and the Ten Best of the Year by the and Abraham Joshua Hes- tan, Democratic Republic of IF YOU GO raise the “next generation.” New York Times, Publishers chel’s Amazing March Toward Congo, Iraq, Syria, Burundi, He will explore the universe Weekly, and The New Yorker; Freedom; Lipman Pike: Amer- Afghanistan, and Burma. She Sponsor: Jewish Federation of “children’s” literature, and among the best Dozen of ica’s First Home Run King; will open a discussion of ways of the Berkshires / Connecting and narrate his own journey the Decade by Amazon. He is A is for Abraham-A Jewish to support refugees and an- With Community from uninformed atheist to the only author in the 48-year Family Alphabet; Too Young for swer any questions attendees Venue: Congregation Knesset someone whose books are history of The Association of Yiddish (recorded by Leonard may have. Israel being used to advance Jewish Jewish Librarians to receive Nimoy); and his just published The eldest child of Irish im- Date & Time: Thursday, August literacy. both their Sydney Taylor Gold Fascinating: The Life of Leon- migrant parents, Griffin has 11 at 10:45 a.m., followed by and Silver Medals in a single ard Nimoy. a background in immigration lunch (see page 21). year. Michelson is a three-time finalist for the Massachusetts IF YOU GO Book Award and the National Jewish Book Award. Other Sponsor: Jewish Federation of honors include three Skipping the Berkshires Stones Multicultural Book Venue: Hevreh of Southern Awards, a National Parent- Berkshire, 270 State Road, Great ing Publication Gold Medal, Barrington and an International Reading Date: Friday, September 9, at Association Teacher’s Choice 10:45 a.m. (lunch follows at Award. noon) Michelson is the owner Advance lunch reservations of R. Michelson Galleries in required for this event. Northampton MA, where he Email jfb.officemanager@veri- recently served two terms as zon.net, or call (413) 442-4360, Poet Laureate. He is the recip- ext. 10 ient of a 2016 Massachusetts Cultural Council Fellowship in Cost: $11 with fresh buffet Poetry. lunch. Program only, $5.

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

Lawrence Berke Stuart M. Fischman Toby H. Levine Harold Sparr Lee & Sydelle Blatt Lynn & William Foggle Erna Lindner-Gilbert Lisa Fletcher-Udel Betty Braun Elaine Freidman Amy Lindner-Lesser Edward Udel Cipora Brown Eiran Gazit Helen Maislen Michael & Joan Ury Barbara Cohen Jeffrey Goldwasser & Jonquil Ellen Masters Mark & Judy Usow Mark Cohen Wolfson Stuart Masters Henry & Beate Voremberg, Mimi Cohen Jordan & Laura Green Estelle Miller of blessed memory C. Jeffrey & Judith Cook Harold Grinspoon Robert Newman, of blessed Alexandra Warshaw Gerry & Lynn Denmark Ellen Heffan memory Florence Wineberg, of blessed Jonathan & Lara Denmark Ed Jaffe, of blessed memory Ken & Fran Rubenstein memory Sheila K. Donath Elihu Katzman Stella Schecter Rabbi Deborah Zecher & Anonymous (9) Melva Eidelberg Marilyn Katzman Arlene D. Schiff Rabbi Dennis Ross Ed Abrahams Monroe England, in memory of Howard & Nancy Kaufman Gary Schiff Norman Avnet Monroe B. & Isabel England Lawrence Klein Stephen & Deborah Schreier Barbara Bashevkin Dr. Armand V. Feigenbaum, Sarah Klein Martin Silver Robert Bashevkin of blessed memory Arthur Kriger, of blessed Sylvia Silverberg, in memory of Linda J. L. Becker Dr. Donald S. Feigenbaum, memory Jerome Silverberg Robert Berend of blessed memory Fred & Brenda Landes Richard A. Simons & Marcie Shelley Berend Steven Feiner Beth Laster-Nathan Greenfield Simons Helene Berke Diana & Stanley Feld Andrew S. Levine Mark & Elisa Snowise Page 12 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org August 5 to September 18, 2016 Your Federation Presents “Displaced Persons: Holocaust Survivors and the Paradoxical Lives They Built in America” Author Joseph Berger to talk about the American lives of Holocaust survivors at Knosh & Knowledge, August 12

GREAT BARRINGTON – On years in displaced person traordinary courage, luck, Friday, August 12, Knosh & camps in Germany and, after and hard work.” Knowledge will host Joseph immigrating to the US, grew Berger was a reporter, Berger, author and veteran up in Manhattan and the editor, and columnist with New York Times reporter, who Bronx. Writes Berger: “Like the New York Times from will reflect on the little-known many immigrants and chil- 1984 to 2015. Drawing on story of the new lives 140,000 dren of immigrants, Holocaust his own experience as an Holocaust survivors and survivors’ children lived in two immigrant, Berger spent their children built in Amer- worlds at the same time. On three years as a roving ica. Berger is the author of the one hand, there was this correspondent to New York Displaced Persons: Growing thrillingly rich American turf neighborhoods, writing Up American After the Holo- to explore. On the other hand, feature articles about the caust, which was published they could never forget what ethnic and cultural rich- by Scribner in April 2001 and it was like to feel intractably ness of the city that became is a memoir about his family’s rooted in another, incompat- the core of two books, The experience as refugees in New ible world of refugee parents World in a City and The York in the 1950s and 1960s. who cannot speak English, Pious Ones. Most recently, This Jewish Federation of a world of people dazed he chronicled the building Joseph Berger the Berkshires program will from unimaginable loss, of a new Tappan Zee Bridge, take place at Hevreh of South- and whose loneliness was the first major bridge built notable book of the year by the ern Berkshire at 10:45 a.m., unrelenting. Yet the chil- in the New York area in half New York Times, which called and will be followed by lunch. dren came to terms with the a century, in an occasional it ”an extraordinary memoir” Berger was born in Russia paradox and ultimately paid Times series. and was praised by Elie Wiesel in 1945, spent the postwar homage to their parents’ ex- Displaced Persons: Grow- as a “powerful and sweetly ing Up American After the melancholic memoir, brilliantly Holocaust was chosen as a written.”

The Woodstock (N.Y.) Jewish Congregation seeks IF YOU GO an Executive Director Sponsor: Jewish Federation of the Berkshires to lead, manage, and coordinate the administrative operation of our synagogue. Venue: Hevreh of Southern Berkshire, 270 State Road, Great Bar- The Executive Director reports to the Board of Directors and works closely with rington Date: Friday, August 12, at 10:45 a.m. (lunch follows at noon) the Board, the Rabbi, the staff and the congregation. We seek a joyful, creative, Advance lunch reservations required for this event. innovative and organized leader who is able to solve complex problems and Email [email protected], or call (413) 442-4360, ext. 10 exercise considerable independent judgment. Cost: $11 with fresh buffet lunch. Program only, $5. Please send cover letter and resume to: [email protected]

BERKSHIRE JEWISH CONGREGATIONS & ORGANIZATIONS

Berkshire Hills Hadassah Hevreh of Southern Berkshire BEYOND THE BERKSHIRES P.O. Box 187, Pittsfield, MA Reform Congregation Anshe Emeth (413) 443-4386, 270 State Rd., Great Barrington, MA Conservative [email protected] (413) 528-6378, hevreh.org 240 Joslen Blvd., Hudson, NY Services: Fridays 7:30 p.m., except B’nai B’rith Lodge, No. 326 (518) 828-6848, first Friday of month, 6 p.m., congregationansheemeth.net Chabad of the Berkshires Saturdays, Torah Study at 9 a.m., Welcome to the Services: Fridays at 7:30 p.m., 450 South St., Pittsfield, MA services at 10 a.m. Call to confirm. Jewish Berkshires Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. (413) 499-9899, Everyone is welcome to attend Israel Philatelist Society jewishberkshires.com Congregation Beth El services and events at any of the c/o Rabbi Harold Salzmann Check website for service times and 107 Adams St., Bennington, VT organizations listed here. 24 Ann Dr., Pittsfield, MA locations. (802) 442-9645, cbevermont.org (413) 442-4312 Services: Saturdays at 10 a.m. Please call the organizations Congregation Ahavath Sholom Jewish Federation of the Berkshires directly to confirm service times Reconstructionist Nassau Jewish Community 196 South St., Pittsfield, MA or to inquire about membership. North St., Great Barrington, MA Center & Synagogue (413) 442-4360 jewishberkshires.org (413) 528-4197, ahavathsholom.com Route 20, Box 670, Nassau, NY Learn more about our Jewish Services: Fridays at 5:30 p.m., Jewish War Veterans (518) 766-9831 community and find great Saturdays at 10 a.m. Commander Robert Waldheim nassausynagogue.org events on the community Call to confirm services (413) 822-4546, [email protected] Services: Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. calendar at: Congregation Beth Israel RIMON – A Collaborative Temple Israel of Catskill JEWISHBERKSHIRES.ORG Reform Community for Jewish Spirituality Reform ______53 Lois St., North Adams, MA PO Box 502, Great Barrington, MA 220 Spring St., Catskill, NY (413) 663-5830, cbiweb.org rimonberkshires.org (518) 943-5758, Services: Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. templeisraelofcatskill.org. Berkshire Minyan Temple Anshe Amunim Lay-led egalitarian minyan Congregation Knesset Israel Reform The Chatham Synagogue held at Hevreh of Southern Conservative 26 Broad St., Pittsfield, MA Route 28, Box 51, Chatham, NY Berkshire, 270 State Rd., 16 Colt Rd., Pittsfield, MA (413) 442-5910, ansheamunim.org (518) 392-0701, Great Barrington, MA (413) 445-4872, knessetisrael.org Services: Fridays at 5:30 p.m., chathamsynagogue.org (413) 229-3618, berkshireminyan.org Services: Fridays at 5:45 p.m., Saturdays, Torah Study at 9:30 a.m., Services: Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. Services: Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. services at 10:45 a.m. Av-Elul 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 13

LOCAL NEWS B’Shalom Chorale of the Shofar Factory – Make Your own Ram Horn Berkshires to Hold Its 3rd Before Rosh Hashanah Annual Concert LENOX – On Sunday, August 28 between 4:30 Consisting of a simple horn taken from a ram or p.m. and 6 p.m., Chabad of the Berkshires will similar animal (such as a kudu) and hollowed of GREAT BARRINGTON – The rale also sings a selection of transform the Lenox Community Center into a its internal cartilage, the instrument produces a B’Shalom Chorale of the Berk- folk songs. Shofar Factory, where adults and children can haunting tone. shires will present a concert of Special guest artist will be participate in a hands-on workshop, crafting According to Jewish history, explains Rabbi Jewish choral music at 7 p.m. clarinetist Paul Green. Admis- their own shofars Volovik, the sound of on Wednesday, August 10 at sion to the concert is $15. All for Rosh Hasha- a Shofar accompanied Hevreh of Southern Berkshire. are welcome. nah. This event is G-d’s giving of the To- This is the third season con- The founder and coordina- co-sponsored by the rah (the Bible) to the cert for this summer chorus tor of the B’Shalom Chorale is Jewish Federation of ancient Hebrews as of singers who enjoy exploring Cantor Emily Sleeper Mekler, the Berkshires. they stood at the foot the great wealth of Jewish mu- who was the longtime cantor of During a demon- of Mount Sinai in the sic, sacred and secular, as well Sinai Temple in Springfield. stration, visitors to Middle Eastern wil- as classical and contemporary For more information con- the Shofar Factory derness. In addition, sounds. tact Cantor Mekler at (413) will learn about the Jewish tradition has The B’Shalom Chorale is 531-8706 or email BShalom- criteria an animal’s it that the Messianic conducted by Jack Brown, [email protected]. Hevreh is horn must meet in Era, a time of world who is also the artistic director located at 270 State Road in order to qualify as a peace, will be ushered of the Berkshire Lyric Cho- Great Barrington. genuine shofar. Par- in with the sounding rus and the choral director This year, in its third sea- ticipants who sign of the great shofar. at Simon’s Rock College and son, the B’Shalom Chorale up for the hands-on The shofar is the Hotchkiss School. The became a non-profit organiza- workshop will be able to saw, drill, sand, shel- sounded in Jewish houses of worship on Rosh accompanist is Joe Rose, also tion. It is sponsored, in part, lac and polish their very own horns and then Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, and at the end of Berkshire Lyric and a well- by the Community Foundation learn how to sound the traditional notes. of Yom Kippur. “Chassidism teaches that the call known musician in the region. of Western Massachusetts, The “The Shofar generates an otherworldly of the shofar is reminiscent of the pure voice of The music for this concert Harold Grinspoon Founda- sound. It’s very soulful, very stirring, and the soul,” says Rabbi Volovik. “At Rosh Hasha- ranges from works by classical tion, the New York Community open to much interpretation,” said Rabbi Levi nah, the soul strives to touch the Divine. Also the composers such as Salamone Trust, the Great Barrington Volovik, co-director of Chabad of the Berk- various notes sounded with the Shofar remind Rossi, to contemporary com- Cultural Council, and private shires. “Each individual hears something else one of weeping, which stirs people to better their posers like Meir Finklestein contributors. in the shofar’s voice.” The shofar is one of the ways, which is among the central themes of Rosh and Eric Whitacre. The Cho- oldest wind instruments known to mankind. Hashanah and Yom Kippur.” The Shofar Factory will open to all on Sun- day, August 28, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the Lenox Community Center, 65 Walker Street. Admission Announcing the Third Annual BerkshireSPEAKS to the presentation is $10. Participants wishing to make their own shofar can sign up for the at Hevreh hand-on workshop for an additional fee. For more information, contact Rabbi Levi An Afternoon of Presentations by Local Visionaries and Trendsetters Volovik at (413) 499-9899 or Rabbi@jewishberk- shires.com. Visit Chabad’s website at www.jewishberkshires.com for additional infor- mation.

GREAT BARRINGTON – The Third An- nual BerkshireSPEAKS will take place Sunday, September 18 at 1:30 p.m. This year’s speakers are: at Hevreh of Southern Berkshire. This • John Downing, CEO, Soldier On year’s event will feature six Berkshire (national organization fighting trailblazers and visionaries sharing veteran’s homelessness) their inspirational stories. BerkshireSPEAKS was established • Nancy Kolodner, Berkshire real- to create an opportunity for the entire tor, teacher, and arts supporter community to hear from local res- • Gwendolyn Hampton-VanSant, idents who have had a significant CEO & founder of Multicultural impact on the Berkshires and beyond. BRIDGE “BerkshireSPEAKS continues to • Mary Pope Osborne, award-win- grow each year, with speakers whose ning author of the Magic Tree passion reminds us that anything is House series (130 million copies possible. We have a fantastic program sold worldwide) planned this year and look forward to an afternoon that brings the commu- • John Hockenberry, author, jour- nity together to share empowering nalist, and award-winning public ideas,” said Toby Levine, Co-Chair of radio host BerkshireSPEAKS 2016. • William “Smitty” Pignatelli, Mas- “From my vantage point, Berkshire- sachusetts state representative SPEAKS is about two things—building for the 4th Berkshire District community and learning,” says Rabbi A reception with the speakers will Neil P.G. Hirsch. “What could be better follow the presentations. than bringing our community togeth- Tickets are $15 online or $18 at er to learn from our community’s door. thought leaders? That this happens in BerkshireSPEAKS is an outreach the Jewish community, in a communi- project of Hevreh and is open to the ty that esteems learning, is a chance community. For more information, vis- to hear Torah taught by people of it www.hevreh.org/berkshirespeaks, all different backgrounds and disci- or contact Toby Levine at (413) 298- plines.” 3868 or [email protected]. Hevreh is located at 270 State Road in Great Barrington. a a Create a Jewish Legacy Campaign Please remember the Jewish Community in your will. Page 14 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org August 5 to September 18, 2016 Your Federation Presents Thank you for a wonderful Major Donors Breakfast!

We were thrilled that more than 170 major donors came togeth- Together, we are helping them transform into young adults who er to support and celebrate Federation’s impact at our 2016 Major are proud of their Judaism and have a strong, lasting identity. Donors Breakfast on July 12. As Lauren Spitz, our event chair, noted, “This community does Two parents, Suzanne Sawyer and Marc Bachman, shared their not take Jewish life for granted. Federation works strategically, personal perspectives on the challenges young people and their collaboratively, and tirelessly to meet the needs of our children families face in the Berkshires, and thanked Federation support- and the elderly, and to sustain Jewish life for all of us year round. ers for helping to provide the foundation for local families to raise Those efforts need and deserve our support.” strong, proud, and connected Jewish children. The 2016 Campaign is off to a strong start, having raised over We are deeply grateful to event chair Lauren Spitz and the host $532,000 thanks to so many full and part time residents who have committee for their dedication and support in bringing this won- stepped up to bring the spirit of our caring community to those derful event to fruition. who need it most. As we heard at the event, it takes a village to raise Jewish chil- dren in the Berkshires. From the crib to the classroom to camp to college campuses, Federation is helping hundreds of kids and their families build a supportive network of Jewish peers, connect to their Jewish heritage, and engage in family friendly Jewish life.

Alan and Nancy Milbauer with Ron Hinds Ken and Rhea Werner

Harold Grinspoon, Judy Usow (Federation President), Lauren Spitz (Event Chair), and Diane Troderman Spoken Word poet Vanessa Hidary, Jane Glaser and Julia Kaplan the “Hebrew Mamita”

Elisa Snowise, Kyneret Albert, with Lara and Roger Jill Gaffin, Jacqueline and Robert Spielman, Shirley Eitan and Malka Evan with Bernie and Elaine Roberts Brown and Bill Lehman, and Hal Gaffin

Michael Albert with Elaine and Bob Baum Joan and Michael Ury, Carol Beyer, and Barbara Lafer Wilma and Norm Michaels with Gaye Moelis and Stan Greenfield Av-Elul 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 15 Your Federation Presents

Front: Ann Dorfman, Phyllis Yawitt, Kara Thornton, Estelle Miller and Adam Irick Lynn and Ken Stark Jeff May. Back, Ofer Kaufman and Kathy Fraker

A full house of Federation supporters Robert and Phyllis Yawitt, Nancy Lipoff, and Steve Focused on the challenges for Jewish Youth Kravitz

Steve and Dale Kulvin with Danny Katz Marvin and Helaine Lender with Marc Bachman Joan Gluck, Alba Passarini and Paul Gluck

Bette and Philip Gladstone and Suzanne and Tom Joshua Yurfest, Kathy Fraker, and Roger Brown Marilyn and Elihu Katzman Sawyer

Lisa Schindler-Frankel and Larry Frankel Laurence and Joan Kleinman, Harold and Denyse Mel and Terry Drucker with Robert Spielman and Adler, and Carol Beyer Arthur Gilbert Page 16 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org August 5 to September 18, 2016

LOCAL NEWS Borscht Belt Memories: “Visions in Jewish Community” – “Welcome to Kutsher’s The Great Ideas Talk with URJ Leader Rabbi Last Catskills Resort” Rick Jacobs GREAT BARRINGTON – cades at Jerusalem’s Shalom GREAT BARRINGTON – On Sunday, August 7 at Hartman Institute, where he is Hevreh goes to the movies 10:30 a.m., Hevreh of South- now a senior rabbinic fellow. on Sunday, August 21 at ern Berkshire hosts Rabbi Rabbi Jacobs has held numer- 10:30 a.m. screening of Rick Jacobs, president of the ous leadership posts within the documentary Welcome Union for Reform Judaism. A the URJ, the CCAR, ARZA, to Kutsher’s: The Last longtime and devoted creative and WUPJ. Catskills Resort change agent, Rabbi Jacobs He also has served on the Kutsher’s Country Club spent 20 years as a dynamic, boards of American Jewish was the last surviving Jew- visionary spiritual leader at World Service, UJA-Federation ish resort in the Catskills. Westchester Reform Temple of New York; Synagogue 2000, One of the legendary (WRT) in Scarsdale, NY. and its successor Synagogue Borscht Belt hotels during Prior to his tenure at 3000. its heyday, Kutsher’s was WRT, Rabbi Jacobs served Hevreh is located at 270 family-owned and operated the Brooklyn Heights Syna- State Road in Great Bar- for over 100 years. Explor- gogue, where he founded and rington. For more information, ing the full Dirty Danc- co-directed the first syna- please go to hevreh.org. This ing-era Catskills experience gogue-based homeless shel- lecture is free and open to the Rabbi Rick Jacobs through a close-up look ter in New York City. Rabbi public. A light breakfast will at Kutsher’s rise and fall, Jacobs has studied for two de- be served. this award-winning doc- umentary captures a last glimpse of a lost world as it disappears before our eyes. Hevreh Teams with Multicultural BRIDGE Tickets can be purchased Street in Great Barrington, on ahead at Hevreh by calling the day of the movie for $10. for a Summer Children’s Program (413) 528-6378, or at the For more information, Triplex Cinema, 70 Railroad please go to www.hevreh.org. GREAT BARRINGTON – Hevreh will host The Happiness Toolbox program for youth ages 5 to 13 on Monday, August 8 through Friday, August 12, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. THE JEWISH FEDERATION Participants in the Happiness Tool- FUNDS AND SUPPORTS A box program will discuss how happi- COMMUNITY-WIDE NETWORK ness levels are affected by day-to-day OF ORGANIZATIONS THAT: experiences and learn how to monitor them. Topics covered in the program will Care for people in need here at home, include resilience, leadership skills, how 1. in Israel and around the world. to communicate with people from various Nurture and sustain Jewish life and backgrounds, how to use your voice, how learning today and into the future. 2. to be prepared for the world, and how to make a difference, as well as introduc- is $150 for the week. Financial assistance is tions to French, Spanish, and available. For more information, contact the Judaism, and positive psychol- BRIDGE office at (413) 394-4029 or email ad- ogy techniques. [email protected]. Hevreh is The cost of the session located at 270 State Road in Great Barrington. Inspired Jewish Learning for Children of All Ages Everyone Welcome

Register now for the 2016-2017 Hevreh Religious School year! call...... to speak with Rabbi Jodie Gordon or Joan Goldberg Munch today 270 State Road / Great Barrington, MA 01230 / 413.528.6378 Member, Union for Reform Judaism

hevreh.org Av-Elul 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 17

LOCAL NEWS

Jewish Education in the Berkshires – 2016-2017 The Jewish Federation of the Berkshires has a strong commitment to Jewish youth, helping to provide a high-quality Jewish education for more than 165 children and young adults through grants to congregational religious schools across the Berkshires. Berkshire County is fortunate to have a diverse Jewish community that offers educational opportunities encompassing a wide range of approaches and family preferences. This section offers an overview of local Jewish schools.

Hevreh of Southern about Jewish holidays and peared in class including “Twister She- Berkshire practices. ma” and “Shema Balloon Relay Races.” Great Barrington For more information Student-led conferences in December Hevreh Religious School is about CHAI, please call the and May are a vital part of all classes. opening its doors this September synagogues. The 7th grade b’nai mitzvah class to create a community of learners, works solely with our Rabbi Rachel from young children through high Congregation Beth Israel Barenblat. This allows her to focus school seniors. With the guidance North Adams exclusively on their development and of teachers, song leaders, young The CBI Community He- staying in contact with their families teachers, and rabbis, Hevreh brew School offers a vibrant during their big year. The focus is students explore Jewish heritage, afterschool program in the threefold: The meaning of prayer; the rituals, history and holidays. Northern Berkshires for Pre-K world of Mitzvot and responsible ac- Hevreh will continue its success- through 7th grade. It meets on tion; and exploring Torah closely. Stu- ful Family YACHAD (Together) Mondays from 3:30-5:15 p.m. dents are given full permission to not program where parents and stu- and offer three distinct classes, only ask questions about what they are dents can participate together in plus a monthly arts-based Sun- reading, but also to agree or disagree learning and celebration opportu- day family program and bagel with what they are learning. nities throughout the year. brunch. In addition, CBI offers Hand in Religious School open house Pre-K through 3rd is taught Hand Family, a brand new Family Edu- events include a tot Shabbat on by Jane Shiyah, a beloved cation program on Sundays through- September 10 at 9 a.m. See the school counselor, family coach, out the year focusing on Judaic book article about the September 11 storyteller and magician with 45 arts – including book making for chil- Mama Doni Band concert on years of working with children dren and adults, creating illuminated page 1 for more on opening day and their families. She partners manuscripts, Hebrew calligraphy, and at Hevreh Religious School. with Inquisitive Bernard (aka forming a storytelling troop to develop Contact: Rabbi Jodie Gor- Inky the Wonder Dog), a trained storytelling skills. To learn more about don or Joan Goldberg Munch at therapy dog and state certified the CBI Community Hebrew School (413) 528-6378. For a complete reading specialist. This class fo- and staff, please visit www.cbihebrew- religious school calendar visit cuses on learning blessings and school.weebly.com. Education Director Hevreh.org/religious-school. Hebrew letters, hearing Torah David Arfa, Maggid (storyteller) can be Classes stories and bringing them to life reached at [email protected]. Religious School classes for Kinder- 2016, one student won the regional with drama and flair. Jane also garten through Confirmation, Sundays championship and participated in the leads our CBI Ukulele Orchestra. Chabad of the Berkshires, Hebrew beginning September 11 at 10 a.m. national contest in New York City. The 4th-6th grade class continues School of the Arts Program K–6 classes meet weekly. TAA also partners with Knesset Hebrew study, focusing on prayers and Pittsfield Pre-Confirmation and Confirma- Israel in offering the CHAI program (see adapting the energetic ‘Hebrew through Information was not available at tion begins Sunday, September 11 at separate listing). Movement’ program to build fluency press time. Please call Chabad of the 9 a.m. and meets bi-weekly (7th and To learn more about the Religious and meaning. Favorite past projects Berkshires at (413) 499-9899 or visit 8th grade–pre-confirmation, 9th–12th School, please contact Esther Be- have included game construction, giant their website at www.jewishberkshires. grade – confirmation). nari-Altmann at (413) 442-5910, ext. mapmaking and more. Students have com. Hebrew Skills classes for 3rd–7th 12, or email [email protected] or enjoyed the surprises that have ap- graders, Wednesdays at 4 p.m. begin- visit www.ansheanumim.org. ning September 14 (weekly). Tiny Talmidim classes for pre- Knesset Israel school children meet monthly be- Pittsfield ginning Sunday, September 18 at The Knesset Israel Hebrew School 10:15 a.m. intends to prepare students for Jewish lives imbued with meaning, knowledge, Temple Anshe Amunim and ruach (spirit). Creative teach- Pittsfield ers build dynamic lessons that help Temple Anshe Amunim offers students find relevance in the Jewish religious education for students from story and build their Jewish identity, preschool to high school, along with as well as acquire Hebrew literacy and evening Hebrew and conversion classes other skills for Jewish life. Highlights for adults. All programs feature a full include an energetic teen-led Junior complement of professional educa- Congregation and a robust program for tors and a focus on Jewish subjects, bar/bat mitzvah education. Teachers Hebrew instruction, and individualized take great pride in drawing on the con- learning. gregation’s strengths, helping students The Religious School is led by Edu- understand how and why to participate cation Director Esther Benari-Altmann, in Jewish community. Rabbi David recipient of the 2015 Harold Grinspoon Weiner collaborates with an outstand- Award for Excellence in Education. “I ing faculty on matching curriculum believe that all students deserve to and methodology to student needs. have the opportunity to learn,” she Learning opportunities are available explains. “We have worked very hard for students ages 2.9 through high to build a program that takes students’ school. personal needs and learning styles into Classes are held on Shabbat morn- consideration. Rabbi Josh Breindel ings. Knesset Israel also partners with and our teachers are all committed to Temple Anshe Amunim in offering the this idea; we meet our students where CHAI program (see separate listing). they are and help them grow.” Hours vary depending on the age of the Classes are held on Saturdays. students. For more information: Eve Programs include prayers, holidays, Edwards, Hebrew School Administra- Jewish values, Israel, history and tor, [email protected]. much more. “We believe in a hands- on approach, and therefore encourage CHAI (Community Hebrew our students to lead Kabbalat Shabbat Afterschool Initiative) services as well as Shabbat services, Pittsfield so that they have no anxiety when they CHAI is a partnership between Tem- celebrate their bar or bat mitzvah,” ple Anshe Amunim and Knesset Israel said Benari-Altmann. TAA Family Edu- that meets Wednesday afternoons from cation programs emphasize the con- 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at TAA. cept of L’Dor Va’Dor, from generation This program, offered in conjunc- to generation. TAA also offers a special tion with both synagogues’ Hebrew class to students who would like to schools, offers students a supportive deepen their Tanach knowledge and atmosphere to gain and refine their participate in the regional and national Hebrew language and ritual leadership Chidon Hatanach (Bible Contest). In skills, as well as collaborative learning Page 18 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org August 5 to September 18, 2016

LOCAL NEWS Spirited to Host Wine, Tzimmes, and Honey Discussion Communities – Cake Tasting in Honor of High Holidays Senior Financial Planning LENOX – Thumbing through for Foodies: Wine and High case the excellent quality and your High Holiday recipe file? Holiday Foods Tasting,” to extensive variety of today’s and the Big Election Hoping to kick your humdrum celebrate the Season of the kosher wines. tzimmes up a notch or two? Jewish New Year with Chabad The tasting is open to GREAT BARRINGTON – As time between Tampa and the Wondering if there’s more to of the Berkshires. The pro- the public, and everyone is summer starts winding down, Berkshires, and are members Kosher wines than that gram will be hosted by Spirited welcome and encouraged to Hevreh of Southern Berk- of Hevreh. syrupy-sweet stuff that usu- at 444 Pittsfield Road in Lenox attend, regardless of religious shire continues its series of “Handicapping the Presi- ally ends up on your Rosh on Friday, September 1, from affiliation or level of knowl- discussion communities with dential Election” Hashanah dinner table? noon to 1:30 p.m. edge. Please contact Sara two relevant and compelling On Thursday, September Wishing you knew what Rosh Free samples and recipes Volovik at (413) 499-9899 or offerings. 1 at 3 p.m., a timely panel Hashanah food was all about, will be offered, along with a [email protected] for “Planning for Longevity – analysis will explore the elec- anyway? Come to “Tzimmes wine tasting that will show- more information. Financial Issues for Seniors” toral history, demographics, On Thursday, August 18 at character, and influences of 3:30 p.m., all are welcome to key states along with likely join in this discussion about resulting regional preferenc- Rimon in Transition the financial issues commonly es for the candidates. These [The following is a state- es in Torah, Talmud, Mussar Community Hevra Kadisha (a faced by seniors. Topics may factors lead to a prediction on ment from Rimon about major and Jewish mysticism. Eco-te- Jewish Burial Society) founded include outliving your savings, who will be elected the U.S. changes to the organization. filah prayer hikes brought by Rimon, will continue to of- inflation, long-term health- president in November. This Please also see Rabba Stern- worshippers into the woods to fer services under the auspices care, downsizing, reverse will be an apolitical discus- Kaufman’s final Rabbi Reflec- pray. The Rimon community of Rabbi Neil Hirsch through mortgages, communicating sion about what people think tion for the BJV on page 3.] has gathered for Tu b’Shevat Hevreh of Southern Berkshire. your wishes, and providing will happen rather than what Rabba Kaya Stern- seders, Purim Megillah read- To serve as part of the Hevra family access to your informa- people want to happen. The Kaufman is stepping down ings, Lag Ba’Omer bonfires, Kadisha, contact Rabbi Hirsch tion. Bring your questions and panelists are Harold Adler, Jan from her position as execu- and Tisha B’Av observances. at (413) 528-6378. perspectives! Group leader Kabel, and Richard Kirsch; all tive director of Rimon Center High Holiday services were At this time of transition, Bradley Minnen has 17 years of whom will bring insightful for Jewish Spirituality after offered in 2015. Monthly Rimon is re-visioning its of experience as an inde- and relevant knowledge to the founding the organization contemplative and musical mission and focus. There is pendent licensed insurance discussion. This session will and guiding it for four years. Kabbalat Shabbat services considerable interest in con- professional helping pre- and be moderated by Mark Lefen- Rabba Kaya has accepted an gathered local worshippers tinuing opportunities for study post-retirees think about these feld. offer to serve as the full-time and people from New York and meditation, as well as and other related retirement Hevreh is located at 270 rabbi at Congregation Agudat State and the Pioneer Valley remaining a spiritual commu- concerns. He and his wife State Road in Great Bar- Achim in Leominster, MA. This to davven together in Stock- nity that is dedicated to cele- Dr. Bonnie Saks split their rington. change represents a great loss bridge. In addition, three area brating and grieving together. in the Berkshires. At the same synagogues invited Rimon to Everyone is welcome. You time, the Rimon communi- share its unique and inspiring can follow Rimon’s activities “Tikkun Olam – To Repair ty understands that it is an Shabbat services. on our website http://rimon- opportunity for Rabba Kaya to Rimon has been active in berkshires.org and sign up for the World – A Tribute to grow professionally and bring interfaith work. Two Inter- emails through the google link: her unique gifts to a broader faith Forums on Spiritual https://groups.google.com/fo- American Icon Pete Seeger” public. Views of Death and After-Life rum/#!forum/rimon-re-vision- During Rabba Kaya’s ten- were well-attended. A healing ing-group. Please contact us if To know his music is to know the man ure, she has spread her vision service drew participants from you would like to have a voice of Judaism as a rich wisdom diverse religious traditions. in Rimon’s future. PITTSFIELD – On Sunday, tradition, offering many class- The South Berkshire August 21 at 7 p.m., Tem- ple Anshe Amunim will host a concert to honor the ex- traordinary American legend, Special Summer Shabbat Events at Hevreh Pete Seeger. The Temple’s outstanding performers, Dr. GREAT BARRINGTON – This (888) 266-1200. prayer and to bring out voices Alan Gold, Rabbi Josh Brein- August, Hevreh of Southern Featured concert: Boston in sacred song. del, Stephanie Bennett, Jesse Berkshire will be welcoming Symphony Orchestra, Charles On Friday, August 5 at 6 Waldinger, Jackie Shayer, and and celebrating Shabbat with Dutoit, conductor; Menahem p.m., student cantor Lilah Paul Bernstein, will be joined several distinctive programs. Pressler, piano; vocal soloists, Sugarman will conduct by Knesset Israel’s extremely Kabbalat Shabbat – Return Tanglewood Festival Chorus: service is currently a fourth- talented musicians, Jonathan to Tanglewood Mozart, Overture to The Mar- year cantorial Student at the Denmark and Steven Skoblow On Friday, August 19 at 7 riage of Figaro, Piano Concerto Debbie Friedman School of in this joyous event. p.m., Hevreh hosts its sec- No. 23 in A, K.488. Rossini, Sacred Music at Hebrew Union The evening will feature ond Tanglewood Shabbat of Stabat Mater. College – Jewish Institute of Pete Seeger favorites like, the season. Come early (gates Hot Shabbat! Religion (HUC-JIR). “Where have all the flowers Pete Seeger open at 4 p.m.) and look for On Friday, September 2 at On Friday, August 12 at gone?,” Guantanamera,” and the blue and white balloons in 6 p.m., end the summer with 7:30 p.m., join Shanna Zell, “Turn! Turn! Turn!,” as well and others worked hard to rid the middle of the lawn to set a bang and celebrate Shabbat a singer/songwriter turned as Jewish-themed songs like the water of dangerous toxins up a picnic dinner, and bring outdoors. Bring a picnic din- cantorial student now enter- “Tzena, Tzena, Tzena,” and and provided the inspiration a dessert to share. Kabbalat ner and a dessert to share for ing her fifth (and final) year at even “Hine Ma Tov” – a tradi- and dedication for its ongoing Shabbat will be held at the the Oneg. There will be games HUC-JIR. tional Shabbat service prayer work. back of the lawn at approx- for the kids, a cotton candy On Friday, August 26 at that Seeger sang with Theo- The entire Berkshire imately 7 p.m. Please note, machine, and a lively musical 7:30 p.m., the guest can- dore Bikel. These and many community is invited to share there will be no services at Kabbalat Shabbat. All are wel- tor will be Steven Weiss, the other Seeger classics will be the intimacy and poignancy Hevreh that evening. Please come to this annual event cantor and director of Educa- part of this memorable event. of Seeger’s folk music, and to call the Tanglewood Box Office Visiting Cantors tion at Congregation Sha’aray Pete Seeger died January be part of this moving cele- to purchase lawn tickets at This summer, Hevreh wel- Shalom in Hingham, MA, and 28, 2014 at the age of 94. He bration. There is no genre of comes talented guest cantors president of the American is remembered for his deep be- music that is more inviting to the bima for Shabbat wor- Conference of Cantors. Stu- liefs in the power of song as a than “folk,” as the emotional ship. These cantors and stu- dent cantor Lilah Sugarman force for social change. An avid appeal of the lyrics urges the dent cantors bring their gifts will also be there. environmentalist, his Hudson audience to join in the fun. and their song to heighten For more information, River Project was founded to Admission is $15. Beverages please go to alert everyone to the pollution and dessert will be served. www.hevreh.org. of the Hudson River. Seeger For more information, contact the Temple Anshe Amunim office at (413) 442- 5910, Ext. 10, email templeof- [email protected] or visit www.ansheanumim.org. Temple Anshe Amunim is an accessible building located at 26 Broad Street in Pittsfield. Av-Elul 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 19

LOCAL NEWS Study with Hevreh Rabbis at “Straight Answers to Gay Questions” PITTSFIELD – On Friday, setts already had in place 20 Two Daytime Classes September 16, Congregation years earlier. He also worked GREAT BARRINGTON – at 10:30 a.m., the People of Knesset Israel will host Ed Se- for the Anti-Defamation Hevreh of Southern Berk- the Book Club at Hevreh of darbaum, founder of Rainbow League in New York City, fo- shire’s rabbis lead two study Southern Berkshire will meet Seniors of Berkshire County, cused on intergroup relations sessions this August. and Rabbi Neil Hirsch will as its after Shabbat dinner and public policy. lead a fun discussion of Meg speaker. Attendance began strong Lunch ‘n Learn: “Feminism, Wolitzer’s bestseller The Inter- A Shirei Shabbat service, – with 17 people at the first Theology, and Prayer” estings. This novel is the story with musical accompaniment exploratory meeting in October For three Wednesdays of a group of friends who first will be held at 5:30 p.m., and 2015 – growing to 20 to 30 les- (August 17, 24 & 31) at meet at a summer camp in the will be followed by a home- bians, gay men, transgender 11:45 a.m., join Rabbi Jodie Berkshires, and whose lives cooked kosher dinner pre- people and their friends and Gordon for “Feminism, The- continue to be intertwined as pared by KI volunteers. Then, allies who now attend each ology, and Prayer.” From the they grow up, have children, at 7:45 p.m., the group moves meeting. Meetings are now thkines (personal prayers) of and experience the fullness of from social hall to sanctuary held twice each month: on the Ed Sedarbaum 17th-century women, to the adulthood. Says Rabbi Hirsch: where the program, entitled third Tuesday of the month radical feminist reimagining “This poignant story that holds “Straight Answers to Gay there is a potluck and program Payment must be received by of the Passover Maggid (story), together coming-of-age with Questions” will be presented. at noon at First Congregation- September 14. All are wel- Jewish women have wres- maturity is certainly a book Rainbow Seniors of Berk- al Church of Williamstown, come to attend the service at tled with prayer and theology to include on your nightstand shire County, a program for and on the first Saturday of 5:30 p.m. There is no addi- throughout history. The class this summer. It’s currently LGBTQ seniors and their each month there is a program tional fee for the program after will explore the evolution of being turned into a movie, friends and allies, was founded at 2 p.m. at the Berkshire dinner. For further informa- women’s prayer and spiritu- and is being filmed here in the in October 2015, and in less Athenaeum. tion, please contact Myrna ality through liturgical texts, Berkshires.” than a year has grown rapidly. At the Park Square vigil in Hammerling, director of pro- and participants will have Copies of the book can be Ed Sedarbaum, 70, of William- June following the murderous gramming, at (413) 445-4872, the opportunity to engage in purchased for a discount from stown founded the group in attack that claimed 49 lives ext. 16. thier own creative prayer-work the Bookloft in Great Bar- order to foster a community at the Pulse club in Orlando, through writing and art. rington. of LGBTQ seniors. Those who FL, Rabbi David Weiner and All are welcome. Please All are welcome to join this were born in the 1930s, ‘40s, many members of the Jewish bring your own lunch and discussion. Hevreh is located and ‘50s often were secretive community heard Ed Sedar- enjoy some learning. at 270 State Road in Great about their orientation or baum address the sizeable and Barrington. A light breakfast gender because the conse- diverse gathering. To many People of the Book Club Event: will be served. quences of disclosure at that in the crowd, the existence of The Interestings point in history were dire. This Rainbow Seniors of Berkshire On Sunday, August 28 often resulted in a smaller County was a surprise, a well- informal support network for kept secret. Rainbow Seniors them, especially in rural areas. can be contacted through their Rainbow Seniors seeks to fos- website, www.rainbowseniors. ter new support networks by org, or by email at rainbowse- Berkshire Dramatic bringing people together. [email protected]. Sedarbaum moved to To reserve for dinner on Premiere: Choices by Northern Berkshire in 2003, September 16, please send after a career as a caseworker, $18 for each attendee’s dinner Donald Drake editor/writer, and community to the Congregation Knesset PITTSFIELD – Choices by Don- organizer. He headed the New Israel Office at 16 Colt Road, ald Drake will be performed on York State Hate Crimes Bill Pittsfield, MA 01201, or call Monday, August 22 at 7 p.m. Coalition to fight for a Hate (413) 445-4872, ext. 10, to at Congregation Knesset Crimes Law, which Massachu- make a credit card payment. Israel, the second theatrical co-sponsorship this season between Congregation Knes- set Israel and Temple Anshe “It All Depends On How Amunim. The play is based on a true situation at Philadelphia’s You Look At It!” with Ruth Children’s Hospital in 1977. The individuals in this mod- Breindel ern drama make a decision of PITTSFIELD – What does it biblical proportions. Conjoined mean to look at things in a twins share a single heart that new way? That’s the question can support only one of them. Ruth Breindel will address on The religious Jewish parents Thursday, August 18 at noon debate whether it is moral to Playwright Donald Drake at Temple Anshe Amunim. sacrifice one twin to save the She points out that recently other. The actual attending March 2016 as part of its 25th scholars have found that the surgeon happened to be anniversary season. Mr. Drake statues from the ancient world C. Everett Koop, who later was a distinguished special were not the pristine white became Surgeon General of projects writer for 35 years we have always seen, but the United States. at the Philadelphia Enquirer. were really painted. Medieval The play is directed by Dr. He has been a Pulitzer Prize palimpsests can reveal ancient Barbara Waldinger, who has finalist three times and re- texts, and that even looking at taught theatre arts at Queens ceived a Pulitzer for one of the a common text from a different College, Hofstra University and narrative stories he edited. He angle can bring new meaning Marymount Manhattan Col- pioneered the use of playwrit- to it. Using these and other Ruth Breindel lege. She currently instructs ing techniques to dramatize examples, Breindel will deliver she is president of the Rhode for OLLI and Temple Anshe complex news events (“nar- a multi-media presentation Island Historical Association, Amunim. As artistic director rative journalism”). Although titled “It All Depends On How treasurer of the Classical As- of HRC Showcase Theatre in he loved his work as a jour- You Look At It!” sociation of New England, the Hudson, and a director for nalist, newspaper work took “As a Latin teacher,” Brein- co-founder of a neighborhood the Association of Theatre in a back-seat to theatre when del explains, “I tend to think association in Providence, and Higher Education, the Kenne- Donald Drake left the Enquirer visually – the written word. It a member of the local Friends dy Center/American College in 2001 to become a full-time is by looking at the words that of the Library board. Theatre Festival, and the Plays playwright. we come to understand a great Guests are invited to bring in Progress Annual Short Play Admission is $20 per ticket; deal, not only about the past, their own lunch to this pro- Festival at the Hudson Opera students are free. Refresh- but about how we interpret gram. Beverages and dessert House, she seeks the finest ments and audience talk-back it. I first came to this when I will be provided. Admission is actors for her casts. Her exten- are included. Rabbi David read a fascinating book on the $10.00. sive background equips her to Weiner of KI and Rabbi Josh Archimedes codex, and then For more information, con- select the most promising con- Breindel of TAA will co-lead I continued in that vein when tact the Temple Anshe Amu- temporary plays for Berkshire the post-performance talk looking at the writing of Julius nim office at (413) 442-5910, audiences. with cast and playwright. For Caesar in the Gallic Wars. I’ll email templeoffice@ansheamu- Donald Drake’s play was advance reservations, please explain all that and more at nim.org or visit www.anshe- selected from a field of 220 contact (413) 445-4872, ext. the talk!” anumim.org. Temple Anshe submissions to HRC Showcase 16 or www.knessetisrael.org. Ruth Breindel taught Amunim is an accessible Theatre and was performed in Walk-ins are always welcome. Latin and Greek for 30 years building located at 26 Broad at Moses Brown School in Street in Pittsfield. Providence, RI. Now retired, Page 20 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org August 5 to September 18, 2016

MAZEL TOV LOCAL NEWS

Mazel tov to Jessica Pas- setto and Josh Cutler on their Temple Anshe Amunim held its first annual Education Preparing for the High Holy marriage on Saturday, August Celebration on July 2, with almost one hundred people gath- 6 at Temple Anshe Amunim in ered in support of the religious school and to witness Emeritus Days Pittsfield. Rabbi Harold Salzmann receive the inaugural award for Lifetime PITTSFIELD – Congregation c Achievement in Jewish Education. Tributes to Rabbi Salzmann Knesset Israel’s Rabbi David Chabad’s co-directors highlighted his dedication to the community, the congregation, Weiner will present a three- Rabbi Levi and Sara Volovik and its religious school, as well as his overall commitment to part series of classes anticipat- welcomed Chava Chaya Luba educating young and old throughout his life. Mazel tov to Rabbi ing the Rosh Hashanah and in June, who joins siblings Salzmann and family. Yom Kippur holidays. Classes Mendel, Hershie, Ricki, Chana, will be held on two consecutive and Mushka – a hearty mazel Mondays, September 12 and tov to all. 19 at 7 p.m., and then culmi- c nate at the Selichot service on Saturday, September 24, at 7 Mazel tov to Rabbi Josh p.m. Breindel on assuming the Using text and commen- role of president of Pittsfield tary to prepare attendees for Area Council of Congregations services of greater length and Rabbi David Weiner (PACC), an interfaith organiza- contemplation at this holy tion through which local lead- time of year, Rabbi Weiner holidays) in the renewed sanc- ers of faith communities come will apply his soulful edu- tuary at 16 Colt Road, Pitts- together to build relationships. cation techniques to inspire field. For questions about High c and move those attending to Holy Day services and tickets, Congratulations to Susan a deeper experience. This will please contact the synagogue Rabbi Josh Breindel, Robyn Rosen, Rabbi Harold Salzmann, Gold, newly elected Chairper- be the first Tishrei (Jewish office at 413-445-4872 ext. 10 Audrey Salzmann, Esther Benari-Altmann son of the Board of Trustees of month having the most Jewish or www.knessetisrael.org. Massachusetts College of Lib- eral Arts (MCLA). Susan has been a member of that Board since 2010, and became its chair in April, after having been reappointed Howard Dean to Speak at 49th Annual Fei- by Governor Charlie Baker to a second 5-year term. c genbaum Lecture at Temple Anshe Amunim Mazel tov to Odelya Kalmanofsky, granddaughter of Barbara and Michael Kaplan, on becoming a bat mitzvah. PITTSFIELD – The 49th an- ture series and it presents an c nual Hilda Vallin Feigenbaum opportunity to emphasize the Memorial Foundation Lecture civic and spiritual legacy of Congratulations to Gary Schiff on being named managing will be held on Sunday, Au- this outstanding woman. It director of October Mountain Financial Advisors, an alliance of gust 28 at 7:30 p.m. at Temple is also an occasion to pay a Lee Bank and St. Germain Investment Management, based in Anshe Amunim. The speaker special tribute to her sons Dr. Springfield. Schiff is chair of the Investment committee of the will be Howard Dean, previ- Armand Feigenbaum and Dr. Jewish Federation of the Berkshires. ously the governor of Vermont Donald Feigenbaum, of bless- c and chairman of the Demo- ed memory, who established Mazel tov to Congregation Beth Israel’s recent b’nai mitzvah cratic National Committee the Hilda Vallin Feigenbaum – Jordan Callahan, Jeremy Guy, Gabe Schoenbaum, and Sasha Dean’s topic will be “Elec- Lecture Series in perpetuity Rooney. tion 2016: Which Path Will as a living memorial to their c America Choose?”, a Washing- mother’s spirit.” Mazel tov to Bob Greenberg on his 50th Anniversary of be- ton insider’s look at the future About the Guest Speaker coming a bar mitzvah. of the presidency and makeup of the House and Senate for c Dean’s campaign for the the next four years and be- presidency and subsequent Howard Dean Mazel tov to Nina and Yael Snowise on becoming b’not mitzvah, yond. The lecture, sponsored four years as DNC chair with many good wishes to parents Elisa and Mark Snowise; grand- activities. He has been active by the Temple Anshe Amunim provided him with both an parents Jeff and Judy Cook, vice president of the Jewish Federa- in anti-human trafficking ef- Feigenbaum Lecture Endow- insider’s view and a reformer’s tion of the Berkshires; and great-grandmother Helen Maislen. forts in Asia and in the United ment, is free and open to the commitment to the econo- States. c public. my, foreign trade policy, and After achieving nation- Madelyn Cherry and Gabe Rich recently became b’nai mitz- Howard Dean, former DNC international relations. His al prominence in his bid for vah at Temple Anshe Amunim – mazel tov! chairman, presidential candi- stewardship of the Democrat- the Democratic nomination c date, six-term governor, and ic Party began in 2005 and for president, Dean founded physician, currently serves Mazel tov to Barbara and Michael Wasserman on their daugh- continued through the inau- Democracy for America. Since as a senior strategic advisor ter Stacy Wasserman’s marriage to Tod Damon in June. guration of President Barack 2004, Democracy for America and independent consul- Obama in 2009. c has grown to over a million tant focusing on the areas of Dean currently serves on members who work at the Mazel tov to Jacob Fanto (and parents Clarence Fanto and healthcare and energy issues. the Board of the National grassroots level to elect fis- Andrea Goodman) on his July 2 bar mitzvah at Chabad of the He is a frequent contributor to Democratic Institute, a de- cally responsible and socially Berkshires. MSNBC and is the founder of mocracy building organization progressive candidates to all c Democracy for America. chaired by former Secretary levels of government. Mazel tov to Temple Anshe Amunim’s House Committee on “We are delighted to host of State Madeline Albright. He being named 2016 Temple Members of the Year at the temple’s Governor Dean and feel that has extensive experience in About the Hilda Vallin 146th Annual Meeting in June. Rob Proskin, Stu Besnoff, Rabbi his expertise will be particu- Southeastern Europe includ- Feigenbaum Lecture Series larly insightful as we approach ing in Ukraine, Moldova, and Josh Breindel, Joel Colker, Michael Margolis, Alba Passerini, The Hilda Vallin Feigen- the upcoming elections this the Balkans. He also has an Howard Shapiro, and Dave Wallace worked to renovate the tem- baum Memorial Foundation fall,” said Andy Hochberg, extensive knowledge of Iraqi ple to make it accessible to persons with disabilities. enhances the spiritual and lecture committee co-chair- and Iranian affairs, and has c intellectual life of Temple man. “This is the 49th year of spent time in China and All the best to Ellen and Allan Cutler on their special anniver- Anshe Amunim and the larger the Hilda Vallin Feigenbaum Myanmar as a result of his sary. community. The Foundation Memorial Foundation Lec- National Democratic Institute c has sponsored lectures by leaders in American govern- Way to go Anna Abrahams, a freshman at Monument Moun- ment, literature, theology, and tain Regional High School, who won a statewide essay contest journalism including such sponsored the Massachusetts Foreign Language Association on personalities as Julian Bond, the topic “Languages as the Keys to Global Understanding.” Representative Barney Frank, c Isaac Bashevis Singer, Ber- Mazel tov to Alba Passarini and Charles Wohl on their daugh- nard Kalb, Stephen Roberts, ter Hannah Wohl’s marriage to Jesse Gelburd-Meyers in June. Steven Emerson, Mara Lias- Alba serves on the board of directors of the Jewish Federation of son, and Ambassador Martin the Berkshires. Indyk. c Refreshments will be served Congratulations to Frederic Rutberg who, along with his busi- after the lecture. ness partners, has embarked on a new venture with the acqui- Seating will be limited and sition of The Berkshire Eagle, The Brattleboro Reformer and The early arrival is recommended. Bennington Banner. The doors may close before the c lecture begins. For more information, Mazel tov to Janie and Larry Pellish on their special anniver- please call the Temple office: sary. (413) 442-5910 or visit the c website at www.ansheamu- Finally, mazel tov and yasher koach to Margie Metzger for 25 nim.org. Temple Anshe Amu- years as the driving force behind Congregation Knesset Israel’s nim is an accessible building Berkshire Jewish Film Festival. We appreciate all you do. located at 26 Broad Street in Pittsfield. Av-Elul 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 21

IMPORTANT NOTICE Tuesday kosher lunches resume on September 6

Tuesday kosher lunch, which is not served during August, will resume at Knesset Israel on Tuesday, September 6. Lunch will be also served on Mondays and ProgramsPrograms taketake placeplace MondaysMondays andand ThursdaysThursdays atat 10:4510:45 a.m.a.m. LunchLunch isis servedserved MondaysMonday and and Thursday Thursdays in conjunction Thursdaysat 12 p.m, atthrough noon through September the 3.summer Tuesday months. lunch resumes on September 8. with the Connecting With Venue:Venue: CongregationCongregation KnessetKnesset Israel,Israel, 1616 ColtColt Rd,Rd, Pittsfield,Pittsfield, MA.MA. Community series.

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• Jewish Federation AUGUST potato chips, hot dog rolls, dessert TBA, and tea. of the Berkshires Monday, 8...... 10:45 a.m., “Julius Rosenwald: How Monday, 5...... Closed for Labor Day • PJ Library One Man Effected Change” with Laura Ferber-Hazen. Lunch: Tuesday, 6...... Fish sticks, vegetable soup, sweet Oriental tuna salad platters, borscht and potato, rolls, Berkshire County potato fries, peas, salad, Farmer’s loaf, strawberry watermelon, coffee, tea, and milk for coffee. shortcake, coffee, tea, and milk for coffee. Thursday, 11...... 10:45 a.m., “Refugee Resettlement, Thursday, 8...... 10:45 a.m., “Hiding Horst, a play Exploring an Ethic of Hospitality” with Deirdre Griffin, Direc- reading” with Laura Ferber-Hazen. Lunch: Macaroni and tor of New American Programs at Jewish Family Service of cheese, apple juice, green beans, stewed tomatoes, Western MA. Lunch: Greek salad platters**, chef’s choice pumpernickel bread, melon coffee, tea, and milk for of juice, Italian bread, tropical fruit salad, coffee, tea, coffee. and milk for coffee. Monday, 12...... 10:45 a.m., “Jewish Humor: An An- Monday, 15...... 10:45 a.m., Shakespeare and Co. tidote for the Harsh World of Reality” with educator, writer actor, Jonathan Epstein, on The Merchant of Venice and his and raconteur, Dick Macht, PhD. Lunch: Meat loaf**#, role as Shylock. Lunch: Turkey tenders chef’s way**#, salad, mixed beans, roasted potatoes, rye bread, fruit salad, mixed vegetables, rice pilaf, whole wheat bread, cocktail, and tea. applesauce, and tea. Tuesday, 13...... Sweet and sour chicken, egg drop Thursday, 18...... 10:45 a.m., “Halachah, Sex, Lies, soup, rice, Oriental vegetables, potato salad, pineapple, and Darwin” with Sigmund Tobias, PhD, clinical psycholo- and tea. gist. Lunch: Fresh fish**, borscht and potato, salad, rice Thursday, 15...... 10:45 a.m., “Our Wise and Intelligent pilaf, summer vegetable medley, whole wheat bread, Bodies” with Jewish Federation of the Berkshires’ Social raspberry pillow cookies, coffee, tea, and milk for cof- Worker, Francine Licata. Lunch: Chef’s choice of pizza, fee. juice, beets, salad, pudding, coffee, tea, and milk for Monday, 22...... 10:45 a.m.,”Questioning Return – coffee. a reading” with author Beth Kissileff. Lunch: Salisbury Monday, 19...... 10:45 a.m., “The Process of Aging” steak**#, gazpacho, mashed potatoes, peas & carrots, with therapist, Maggie Bittman. Lunch: Spaghetti and potato bread, applesauce, and tea. meat sauce#, noodle soup, green beans, Italian bread, Thursday, 25...... 10:45 a.m., Annette Miller on her role mandarin oranges, and tea. in Shakespeare and Co.’s Sotto Voce. Lunch: Grilled cheese Tuesday, 20...... Turkey piccatta**#, salad, rice pi- and tomato, pineapple juice, cucumber slices and toma- laf, mixed vegetables, multi-grain bread, apricots, and toes, coleslaw, multi-grain bread, pudding, coffee, tea, tea. and milk for coffee. Thursday, 22...... Frederikke Borge speaks about her Fa- Monday, 29...... 10:45 a.m., “The Process of Aging” ther, Victor Borge. Lunch: Fresh fish**, mushroom soup, with therapist, Maggie Bittman. Lunch: Roasted chicken, asparagus cuts n tips, noodle kugel, rolls, ice cream and salad, potatoes O’Brien, broccoli cuts, Challah, peaches, cookies, coffee, tea, and milk for coffee. and tea. Monday, 26...... Program to be Announced. Lunch: SEPTEMBER Meat loaf, minestrone soup, mashed potatoes, peas Thursday, 1...... 10:45 a.m., “Where Have All the Small and carrots, rye bread, grapes, and tea. Stores Gone?” with Leonard Quart. Lunch: Hot dogs**#, tomato juice, vegetarian beans, coleslaw, potato salad, Page 22 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org August 5 to September 18, 2016

OBITUARIES

Philip Cohen, 86, ardent tion of Volunteers. They also Born in New York City on collection. He also enjoyed golf ett Woodmere Public Schools. classical pianist attended almost every concert October 25, 1918, he was and bridge. He was frequent- A long term community PITTSFIELD – Philip Cohen, each summer. the son of Phillip Colby and ly seen walking around the organizer and union activist, 86, died on Sunday, July 3 at Mr. Cohen is survived by Sadie Sherman Colby. Dr. neighborhood and in town Mrs. Margolis served as trea- home after a brief battle with his beloved wife of 36 years, Colby was a 1935 graduate of hand in hand with his wife. surer of a 500 member teacher lung cancer. Liliana; four daughters, Mar- DeWitt Clinton High School in Dr. Colby is survived by his union and as a negotiator for Born to the late Pauline tha Stine, Amy Cohen, Susan the Bronx, NY and earned his beloved wife of 72 years, the the Maritime Workers’ Union. and Harris Cohen, he grew up Hirsch, and Patricia Putney; undergraduate degree from former Irene Fay Berger, as She was the sole plaintiff in a in Brooklyn, NY. He attended his ex-wife, Harriet Newman Johns Hopkins University in well as two proud daughters successful lawsuit to prohibit local schools, graduating from Cohen; nine grandchildren; Baltimore, MD in 1939. In and their spouses, Jill and Nassau County, NY’s efforts to James Madison High School his sister Norma Barasch; two 1943, he graduated from New Donald Shulman of Boston obtain personal financial and in 1948. He earned his BA nieces; two stepsons Robert York Medical College, complet- and Ellen and Joseph Fabino health information from civil from New York University in and Andrew Romano, and four ing his internship and resi- of Pittsfield. He also leaves five service employees and their 1951 and MS (Chemistry) from step-grandchildren. He was dency in Surgery at Morrisania grandchildren residing in MA: spouses. the University of Michigan in predeceased by his grandson City Hospital, Bronx. Robert Fabino and his wife For two consecutive years, 1952. Benjamin Ziegelbaum. At Mr. Dr. Colby proudly served Jaye of Methuen; Amy Fabi- she chaired the Freeport His- Mr. Cohen began his career Cohen’s request, there were his country during World War no Michael and her husband torical Tour Committee, which as a research chemist for no services or calling hours. II as a Captain in the U.S. Stephen Michael of Acton; sponsored tours of historic DuPont in Wilmington, DE. A private family gathering will Army, where he was an Officer Christopher Fabino and his homes and former residences He later was founder and be held at a later date. Memo- in Charge of officer surgery at wife Heidi of Lenox; Alex Shul- of stage and screen personal- president of Premier Vacuum rial donations may be made to the 250th Station Hospital in man of Brookline; and Lydia ities that included Broderick Process Corp. in Queens, NY. HospiceCare in the Berkshires, Regensburg, Germany. Shulman of Stockbridge. He Crawford, Leo Carrillo, Victor After selling this business Inc. Following his honorable also leaves three great-grand- Moore, and Joan Bennett. 21 years later, he became discharge from the military, children. For close to ten years, Mrs. vice president and general The Jewish Federation of Dr. Colby moved to Pittsfield At Dr. and Mrs. Colby’s Margolis facilitated discus- manager of Bee Chemical the Berkshires mourns with the encouragement of his request, there will be no ser- sions at the monthly meetings Co. in Fairfield, NJ. He later the passing of Dr. Stanley brother, Ira Colby, who had vices. A gathering in celebra- of the Temple Anshe Amunim founded and was president of R. Sacon, 74, of Hingham moved there the previous year tion of Dr. Colby’s life will be book club. She also served Webtronics, Inc. of Fairfield, on Friday, July 15. Dr. to set up his dental practice. announced in the near future. as a member of the Board of manufacturers of plastic film Sacon was the husband Dr. Colby was a dedicated, In lieu of flowers, friends may Trustees of the Temple. slitting, coating, and laminat- of 53 years to Carol caring and highly respected make memorial donations Mrs. Margolis is survived ing equipment. Bloom and the father of physician and surgeon for for- to Berkshire Medical Center by her husband Michael; sons An ardent classical pianist, Federation Board member ty years, retiring in 1987. or to an organization of their David and Joshua; daughters- Mr. Cohen loved playing cham- Jennifer Sacon, her hus- He was a member of the choosing, in care of Devan- in-law Sabine and Jennifer; ber music with his friends band Scott Hochfelder, American Medical Association, ny-Condron Funeral Home, 40 grandchildren Ethan, Jakob, in the Berkshires and at the and treasured “Biggie” to International College of Sur- Maplewood Avenue, Pittsfield, and Sophie; step-grandchil- Northampton Community his grandchildren Noah, geons, and the Berkshire Dis- MA 01201. dren Emma and Grace Hol- Music Center, where he was Alexandra, and Ely. Fu- trict Medical Society, of which land. She is also survived by Marilyn Margolis, 71, long also a member of the Piano neral services were held he was a past president. her two sisters Helene and term community organiz- Connection group which he at Congregation Sha’aray Dr. Colby was an instru- Sandra Benedick. dearly loved. He was an enthu- Shalom, Hingham on ment-rated private pilot who er & union activist Funeral services were held siastic tennis player for most Monday, July 18. Buri- also performed pilot flight DALTON – Marilyn Margolis, Monday, June 27 at Temple of his life, and in recent years, al followed at Or Emet physicals; he flew his own 71, died suddenly at home on Anshe Amunim, 26 Broad delighted in biking the Ashu- Cemetery, West Roxbury. plane for 26 years. World trav- Tuesday, June 21. Street, Pittsfield, MA with willticook Trail up to Adams Contributions may be el was one of his greatest plea- Born in Bronx, NY, she was Rabbi Joshua L Breindel, Spir- and back. He loved to ski in made to the American sures; he and his wife toured a graduate of Flushing High itual Leader, officiating. Burial Aspen, while Liliana worked as Heart Association, P.O. extensively, visiting every School, Hunter College, and followed at Pittsfield Ceme- a volunteer in the thrift shop Box 417005, Boston, MA continent with the exception CW Post University’s Graduate tery, Temple Anshe Amunim and at the local hospital. They 02241-7005. of Antarctica. In addition, he School of Library and Infor- Section. Memorial Donations spent every winter for the past was an accomplished pho- mation Science. Her career may be made to Temple Anshe 30 years in Aspen, where they tographer, documenting each included work as a home Amunim or Planned Parent- Dr. Raymond G. Colby, made many dear friends in the trip with numerous pictures economics teacher in Mass- hood in care of the Flynn & 97, dedicated, caring and town for which they had much that he shared with family and apequa, NY, as head of Chil- Dagnoli-Bencivenga Funeral affection. highly respected physi- friends. dren’s Services for the West Home, 5 Elm St., Pittsfield, MA Mr. and Mrs. Cohen were cian An enthusiastic hobbyist, Hempstead Public Library, and 01201 20 year Tanglewood volunteers PITTSFIELD – Dr. Raymond G. he spent many hours con- as a library media specialist and were recognized for their Colby, 97, died peacefully at structing model airplanes, in the public schools. Her last many years of service by the his home on Wednesday, June cars, and miniature buildings position, prior to retirement, The Jewish Federation of Boston Symphony Associa- 15. for his beloved G-scale train was for six years in the Hewl- the Berkshires extends condolences to Elaine and Lenny Lipton on the pass- ing of Elaine’s mother, 49TH ANNUAL Marian (née Glazer) Liv- erman on Friday, June 24 at the age of 102. She HILDA VALLIN FEIGENBAUM was the beloved wife of the MEMORIAL FOUNDATION LECTURE late Leonard Liverman. Mrs. Liverman was the cherished grandmother SUNDAY – AUGUST 28, 2016 – 7:30 PM of Mark and Cindy Lipton, Karen and Spencer New- man, Peter Lipton, and delighted great-grand- mother of Ella and Josh- Election 2016: ua Lipton and Halle and Colby Newman. Funeral Which Path Will America Choose? services and burial were held on Monday, June with Guest Speaker 27 in Montreal. Contri- butions in her memory may be made to the Elaine and Lenny Lipton Music Howard Dean Endowment Fund at Con- Former Governor of Vermont, Architect of the 50-State Strategy gregation Knesset Israel, 16 Colt Road, Pittsfield. for Election Campaigns, former Chairman of the Democratic Na- MA 01201 or to a fund of tional Committee, and Founder of Democracy for America. the donor’s choice.

Sponsored by Donate The Hilda Vallin Feigenbaum Lecture Endowment Volunteer The lecture is free and open to the public. A reception follows the lecture. Make a Limited seating – arrive early. The doors may close before the lecture begins. Temple Anshe Amunim is an accessible building. Difference Temple Anshe Amunim – 26 Broad Street – Pittsfield, MA – 413-442-5910 Av-Elul 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 23 Calendar – Ongoing Events Around the Community

Continuous – Chabad of the Berkshires guides the group through the triennial or [email protected]. imum. Dinner reservations are due by the “Smile on Seniors,” or “S.O.S.,” volunteer cycle, year-round in the K.I. Library. New- Monday before services. Full information: Thursdays at 6:15 p.m. – “Intermedi- program to serve senior citizens in the comers always welcome to this gathering (413) 445-4872, ext 10. ate Hebrew,” with Esther Benari-Altmann. Berkshires. Information for families who of students of diverse ages, backgrounds, Teens and adults join together for lively Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. – “Torah Plus: can benefit and volunteers: Rabbi Levi and perspectives who search together to study of Modern Hebrew with an expert Exploring Jewish Text and Culture.” Join Volovik at (413) 499-9899 or visit www. deepen understanding of our foundational instructor. Temple Anshe Amunim, 26 Broad Rabbi Josh Breindel for a conversation jewishberkshires.com. text. Free. Information: (413) 445-4872, Street, Pittsfield. Open to the community at based on the texts of the Jewish people and ext. 16. New England Holocaust Institute & large. Information and registration: (413) reflection on what it means to be Jewish. All Museum – Artifacts from the collection of Tuesdays at 1 p.m. – “Beginner Hebrew” 442-5910, ext. 12 or eba@ansheanumim. texts are offered in English. Temple Anshe founder Darrell English are now on view Learn to speak Hebrew from a native Israeli org. Amunim, 26 Broad Street, Pittsfield. Free. at the Adams Free Library, 92 Park Street, with Esther Benari-Altmann at Temple An- Open to the public. Information (413) 442- Fridays, last of month, time varies Adams, telephone (413) 743-8345. Mr. she Amunim, 26 Broad Street, Pittsfield. 5910 or [email protected]. with candle lighting – Chabad of the English remains available to bring selections Open to the community at large. Regis- Berkshires’ “Friday Night Live,” traditional from his collection of Holocaust artifacts to tration, full information: (413) 442-5910, Kabbalat Shabbat service. Information: presentations for organizations, schools, extension 12, or [email protected]. (413) 499-9899 or visit www.jewishberk- and private functions. To schedule offsite Wednesdays, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. shires.com. presentations, call Ed Udel at (413) 446- – optional meditation 11:30 a.m. to noon 8409. Fridays, at 9 a.m. – Meditation with – “Yoga @ KI” with instructor Jane Rosen Rabbi Rachel Barenblat in the Congregation Monthly – Ruthie’s Lunch Bunch meets at Congregation Knesset Israel social hall, Beth Israel sanctuary, 53 Lois Street, North Congregation Knesset Israel at Congregation Beth Israel, or a local 16 Colt Road, Pittsfield. $5 per class for Adams, overlooking the Berkshire moun- restaurant. Call for details. Congregation Knesset Israel members; $10 for non-mem- 16 Colt Road, tains. Silence, chanting, and meditation Beth Israel, 53 Lois Street, North Adams. bers. Open to the public. Information: Jane Pittsfield designed to help prepare for Shabbat. All Information: (413) 663-5830. Rosen at (413) 464-0173 or janerosen@ welcomed. Information: (413) 663-5830 ONGOING MINYANS berkshire.rr.com. Monthly, fourth or fifth Sunday – and www.cbiweb.org. Sunday...... 8:45 a.m. and 7 p.m. Volunteers from Congregation Beth Israel, Wednesdays, from 10:30 to 11:30 Tuesday...... 7 p.m. Fridays, last of the month – The Berk- 53 Lois Street, North Adams “Take and Eat” a.m. – Hevreh of Southern Berkshire, Friday...... 7 a.m. and 5:45 p.m. shire Hills Hadassah Summer Book Club program cook, package, and deliver hot 270 State Road, Great Barrington, offers Saturday, 9:30 a.m. and evenings discusses books with a Jewish theme. All meals for all North Adams clients of “Meals “an hour of morning stillness” with Nina approximately 30 minutes before sunset Hadassah members — and those wishing on Wheels.” Information: (413) 663-5830 Lipkowitz, a certified Kripalu Yoga Teacher. to become members — are welcome to or [email protected]. Donation of $10 is asked for from non-mem- CANDLE-LIGHTING join. For more information on time and bers. Information: (413) 528-6378. August 5...... 7:48 p.m. Monthly – One Monday a month (date location, please contact Carol Goodman August 12...... 7:39 p.m. varies according to length of book), the Wednesdays at 6:15 p.m. – “Conversa- Kaufman at [email protected]. August 19...... 7:28 p.m. CBI Book Discussion Group meets at tional Hebrew”. Practice speaking Hebrew Fridays, once a month at 5:30 p.m. August 26...... 7:17 p.m. Congregation Beth Israel at 7 a.m. Check with native Israeli Esther Benari-Altmann, (followed by a family style Shabbat September 2...... 7:05 p.m. the CBI Newsletter for current books and Temple Anshe Amunim, 26 Broad Street, dinner at 6:30 p.m.) – Congregation September 9...... 6:53 p.m. schedule. Information: Chaim Bronstein at Pittsfield. Open to the community at large. Knesset Israel, 16 Colt Road, Pittsfield. (917) 609-6732. Information and registration: (413) 442- September 16...... 6:41 p.m. Shirei Shabbat (“Songs of Shabbat”). 5910 ext. 12 or [email protected]. Sundays (second of each month) – Unique service combines melodies from See “Berkshire Jewish Congregations and Berkshire Hills Society of Israeli Philatelists Thursdays, 10:45-noon. – Congrega- Carlebach, Debbie Friedman, and Camp Organizations” on page 12 for information on meet. Discuss Israeli and American stamps. tion Knesset Israel, 16 Colt Rd, Pittsfield. Ramah to create a ruach filled (“spirited”) all regularly scheduled services in the area. Coffee and donuts. Information: Ed Helitzer, The Book of Deuteronomy. Rabbi Weiner family friendly experience. Cost for dinner Contact a congregation directly if you wish to (413) 447-7622, daytime. guides conversations about the book in $18 per adult, $15 teens, $50 family max- arrange an unscheduled minyan. its historical context. Discussions touch on Sundays, 10:30 a.m. (every seven comparisons to other parts of the Torah and weeks) – Congregation Ahavath Sholom’s scripture, underlying philosophical issues “Bagels and Brainstorms.” Contact Guy and spiritual implications. Full information Pancer, [email protected] or (860) and schedule: (413) 445-4872, ext 10. 435-2821 for topic and location. Thursdays (fourth of each month) – www.jewishberkshires.org Tuesdays, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. – Hadassah Book Club. For times, locations Torah Portion of the Week study group at of meetings, and further information about Congregation Knesset Israel, 16 Colt Road, the books: Roz Kolodny at (413) 243-2077 Pittsfield. Facilitator Myrna Hammerling Affiliate with a Congregation. You, the congregation, and the Jewish community benefit when you do.

• YOU GET the Jewish enrichment and spiritual nourishment you are seeking.

• YOU GET the rabbinical support you need in times of joy and sorrow.

• YOU RECONNECT with your community and your Jewish roots.

• YOU CAN PARTICIPATE in a variety of services, classes, and programs that keep Judaism alive and flourishing in Berkshire County.

• THE CONGREGATION IS THE INSTITUTION that has sustained the Jewish people for two millenia throughout the world. Orthodox, Conservative, Reconstructionist, or Reform, the Jewish community wins when you join the congregation of your choice. The Jewish Federation of the Berkshires encourages you to affiliate.

Israeli Jewelry

The Mews, by the Red Lion Inn Courtyard Stockbridge, MA 413-298-4436 Page 24 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org August 5 to September 18, 2016 BERKSHIRE JEWISH VOICES Traveling with Jewish Taste Blessing and Peace and Acts of Loving Kindness and Sand in Your Shoes By Carol Goodman Kaufman

The sun was blazing as we hiked up the short but surprisingly steep Synagogue Hill to the St. Thomas Synagogue, located right in the heart of downtown Charlotte Amalie on Crystal Gade (Dutch for street). When we arrived, we were rewarded with a brisk and cooling breeze, and we stood for a while gazing out at the beautiful view of the town on the sea. Leafing through the guest book, I saw names of people I knew from all over. Of course, I thought, Jews will visit synagogues, particularly if they are located in exotic places and have histories that differ from the kinds with which we are familiar. The St. Thomas Synagogue is indeed different from those we frequent here in New England. Officially known by the very long Bera- chah V’shalom Vegimult Hasadim Synagogue (Blessing and Peace and Acts of Lov- ing Kindness), it is a National Historic Landmark and claims to be the oldest shul in continuous use under the American flag and the second-oldest in the Western Hemisphere (after Newport, Rhode Island’s Touro). Sephardic Jews, most fleeing the torments of the Inquisition, came to settle in the Caribbean as early as the 18th century and established trade between Old and New Worlds. The National Park Service cites Danish colonial records that refer to Jews as Portuguese from Brazil. These Jews founded their congregation in 1796, and then built their synagogue in 1833. A second distinguishing feature of the St. Thomas Synagogue is its sand floor. According to the Israeli newspaper Haaretz, there are only five sand floor syn- The ark agogues in the entire world, and all differ slightly. The one in St. Thomas, for example, has a wooden base, while the one in Kingston has one of brick. While several stories circulate as to the origin of the sand floor custom, most scholars agree that because the founders were all of Sephardic ancestry, they had had to adopt a method of practicing their religion out of the prying eyes – and ears – of neighbors who would be only too willing to turn them into the authorities. A sand floor muffled the sounds of prayer. The practice in Europe became a tradition in the Caribbean. Although the St. Thomas Synagogue is affiliated with the Reform Movement, the synagogue is structured like a traditional Sephardic space, with its benches facing one another rather than forward. These benches, the ark, and the bimah are all made of mahogany, a wood native to the Americas and probably not seen in Europe that early. Adorning the sanctuary is an 11th-century menorah brought from Spain, and Dutch chandeliers. Most interesting from a feminist perspective are the four pillars representing Sarah, Rebecca, Rachel, and Leah. The matri- archs’ presence made me wonder if the ushpizin visiting the islands at Sukkot might include women as well. The congregation may be small – about 70 families – but is active. Between Shabbat services and dinners, study sessions, and participation in the Jewish film festival, things are hopping. Several dozen b’nai mitzvah and weddings from the States also take place each year at the historic synagogue. If you happen to be in the U.S. Virgin Islands and aren’t beach-goers, the St. Thomas Synagogue is a worthwhile place to spend time.

The view

Caribbean Spiced Sweet Potatoes

Serves four For a real taste of the islands, try this twist on sweet potatoes that combines sweet and savory.

Ingredients: 4 cups sweet potatoes, peeled and diced 1 cup sweet onion, peeled and sliced thin 1 medium pineapple, cored and diced ¼ cup balsamic vinegar ¼ cup olive oil 1 teaspoon sea salt ¼ teaspoon black pepper, ground ¼ teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped

Directions: Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Line a rimmed pan with foil. The sand floor Put potatoes, onions, and pineapple in a plastic bag. Drizzle oil and balsamic vinegar over all and shake it until all pieces are well coated. Carol Goodman Kaufman is a psychologist and author with a passion for travel and food. She is currently at work on a food history/cookbook, tracing the paths Pour out bag contents into the pan, ensuring they are in a single layer. that some of our favorite foods have taken from their origins to appear on dinner Sprinkle rosemary, salt and pepper evenly and toss once more. plates and in cultural rites and artifacts around the world. She invites readers to read her blog at carolgoodmankaufman.com and to follow her on Twitter Roast for 40-50 minutes or until potatoes start to brown, turning occasionally. @goodmankaufman.

www.jewishberkshires.org Av-Elul 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 25 CULTURE AND ARTS With Sotto Voce, Actress Annette Miller Makes a Soft Voice Heard LENOX – “Virtual” is the word buried memory, of the loss of is his challenge as a direc- pened.” Moreover, she asserts, Annette Miller returns to love and youthful innocence, tor. Though the characters “look at the world today. Look over again as she talks about of helplessness at not being communicate by email and at the ships being turned away Sotto Voce, a drama by Pulitzer able to turn the tide of his- telephone, Cruz has written right now, at the walls being Prize-winning playwright Nilo tory.” Bernadette has lived in his stage directions that put up.” Cruz that opens August 26 at a “virtual” life for years, and no electronics can appear on Director Gidron says that Shakespeare & Company. though she and Saquiel never stage. Gidron says that forces Nilo Cruz, a Cuban-American The actress plays Berna- meet, their virtual relation- audience members “to use immigrant who is not Jew- dette Kahn, a famous German ship develops into “a marriage their power of imagination, as ish, very consciously draws novelist in her 80s living as a of souls through history and well,” in experiencing the play. parallels between the past recluse in New York. Berna- literature. They unite through Miller saw Sotto Voce and the present. “The play is dette lives in memory of her imagination.” during its original run in New very universal because it is so great love, who was a Jewish Given that the protagonists York City, and brought it to specific,” he explains. Refugees passenger on the ill-fated MS (there is one additional char- Shakespeare & Company for fleeing by sea and then being St. Louis, the “Voyage of the acter on stage, Bernadette’s a well-received staged read- denied passage to freedom and Damned” ship that in 1939 Colombian maid) cannot ing last summer. The only safety is a repeated historical was turned away from North interact directly, the words other staging of the play was reality – not only the St. Louis, years, working together on American ports and forced to of playwright Nilo Cruz must a brief run in Miami, and so but also boats carrying Jews Golda’s Balcony, Full Gallop, return to Europe. Her lover drive the play. Cruz apparent- this production will introduce to Israel after World War II, and Master Class, all dramas Ariel Strauss, like nearly one- ly succeeds. Writes Cristine Sotto Voce to a wider range of the Vietnamese boat people in centered around strong female fourth of the ship’s passen- Dolan of the Miami Herald of theatergoers and critics. Miller the 1970s, and the refugees characters. Nilo Cruz’s Berna- gers, died in a concentration an earlier production: “The po- knows she has the opportunity from the Middle East dying in dette Kahn is the latest in that camp. etry of Cruz’s writing is what to put her stamp on the role of the Mediterranean Sea today. line. “A role like this is import- Bernadette is contacted those who love his work cite the reclusive Bernadette Kahn. “Cruz being a Cuban has a lot ant,” says Miller, “because it by Saquiel Rafaeli, a young most often about his style, and “Her soul came through to me to do with his attitude toward shows a woman of substance Jewish student from Cuba in Sotto Voce has that. Yet it also immediately,” says Miller of refugees,” says Gidron. “He still contributing to the world. the midst of a research project contains passages that are re- her attraction to the character. understands what it’s like not Sotto Voce is about making a about the St. Louis, which alistic, whimsical, sensual and “Maybe I felt her tragedy. But being able to communicate soft voice heard. That’s how I carried a family member of his heartbreaking. Cruz may be then I had to find her voice. with those left behind. Each look at it.” own who also perished. Having that rarity, a poet of the stage, And then I started doing work of the three characters is Sotto Voce will be at Shake- unearthed a cache of love let- but he is first and foremost a on what it’s like to be a re- displaced” and constrained in speare & Company’s Elayne ters exchanged by Bernadette dramatist.” cluse, to understand why one their movements. The student Bernstein Theatre from August and Ariel, the student tries to Director Daniel Gidron, doesn’t go out of the house. Saquiel will have to go back to 26 to September 11 (previews meet the aging author. She who was in the early stages And then, what happens to a Cuba. Bernadette’s Colombian begin August 18). For more refuses to meet him in person, of rehearsal with Miller at the person after they decide not to maid is undocumented, and information and tickets, visit however, and this is where time of these interviews, says go out of the house anymore?” cannot return home from the www.shakespeare.org or call the “virtual” part of things is that the play was, in a certain Despite being a fictional US. And Bernadette is denied (413) 637-3353. manifest – the dramatic nar- sense, “about not touching.” work much about memory and passage to the place to which See page 9 for details about rative consists largely of texts Live theater may seem like virtual communication, Sotto she is most attached, the past. the August 25 Connecting of emails they exchange and a an unlikely medium through Voce “is a strong play about a Annette Miller and Daniel With Community program with telephone conversation. which to explore a virtual reality,” says Miller. “The story Gidron have forged a suc- Annette. Says Miller: “It’s a story of world, but that, Gidron says, of the St. Louis – that hap- cessful partnership over the

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ENjOy KOshER & MEvushaL WINEs *KOSHERSpecial STYLE Selections include... Notte Italiano Prosecco, Italy Barkan Classic Pinot Noir, Israel Bartenura Chianti, Italy Recanti Cabernet, Galilee Teal Lake Cabernet/Merlot, Argentina O’Dwyers Creek, New Zealand Jim Nejaime, Wine Merchant Barkan Classic Merlot, Israel Recanati Chardonnay, Galilee 444 Pittsfield Road, Lenox, MA 01240 spirited-wines.com [email protected] Page 26 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org August 5 to September 18, 2016 FOOD AND DRINK The New Jewish Cookbooks

By Carol Goodman Kaufman at his Philadelphia eatery. I then Herb-Roasted Chicken With Quinoa-Mushroom Pilaf happened on an interview with Like the folks in River City, The combination of savory and citrus make this recipe a real winner. If you can’t find a him, in which he recalled falling Iowa, I love getting packages. Who whole chicken, a cut-up one will do just fine. Simply adjust the times. in love with Yemenite Beef Soup doesn’t? And while the Wells Fargo when he first came to Israel as a wagon doesn’t come down the Ingredients: child. When I got a review copy of street to me, the U.S. Postal Service the cookbook, I immediately set 2 whole chickens, about 4 pounds each For the quinoa: certainly does and it has brought out to make that soup, and can ½ cup fresh flat leaf parsley-chopped 2 cups quinoa a couple of new cookbooks right certainly understand why he fell 3 tablespoons fresh thyme-chopped 1 shallot-peeled and diced to my doorstep. Consequently, we so hard. The house smelled like 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary-chopped 2 cups fresh mushrooms, sliced (use have been eating (mostly) well as I a Friday afternoon in Jerusalem 1 tablespoon chives-shopped Shiitake, Cremini, button or your explored their pages and tested out due to the potent hawaiij, a Middle Juice and zest of 1 lemon favorite) some recipes. Eastern spice mixture that gives Juice and zest of 1 orange 2 tablespoons lemon juice Let’s start with Laura Frankel’s the soup its oomph, and the flavor ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil ½ cup pine-nuts, toasted Jewish Cooking for All Seasons: was divine. Salt and pepper extra virgin olive oil Fresh, Flavorful Kosher Recipes for A real patchke, this dish took Holidays and Every Day. What I Directions: three days to prepare, but it was like about this book is that it is or- Preheat the oven to 450. Rinse the chickens thoroughly. Pat dry and place on a roast- worth it. On Day #1 I prepared the ganized by season. While today we ing rack. broth. Day #2 called for preparing can get any fruit and any vegeta- hilbeh, a mixture of fenugreek and Place all the remaining ingredients in a small bowl and whisk together. ble at any time from any place in the world, there’s Use your hands to thoroughly rub the chickens inside the cavity and out with the nothing like a sun- herb mixture. Tuck the wings under the body of the chicken and tie the legs together warmed tomato picked if you wish (this will help keep the shape a little nicer). right from the vine, as Roast the chickens for 20 minutes at high heat. opposed to the pale and hard version found in the Turn down the oven temperature to 200 and slow roast until a thermometer inserted February supermarket. into the thigh registers 160 (occasionally brushing on more of the herb mixture). Indeed, after a long, Remove from the oven and cover the chickens loosely with foil. Allow the chickens to cold and dreary winter, rest before carving. I look forward to three To carve the chickens: Cut down the center along the breast bone on both sides. sure signs of spring Remove the breast bone. Pull the chicken apart slightly to expose the back bone. in my backyard: the Cut along both sides of the back bone and remove it. Cut the birds into quarters and crocus, the red-breasted place on a serving platter. robin, and asparagus. When asparagus is in season, I tend to go a Rinse the quinoa under water for several minutes, rubbing the grains together to bit overboard in trying remove the slightly “soapy” film. new recipes for the delicate green spears. Place the quinoa in a medium saucepan and add 4 cups of water. Cook the quinoa A light and lemony way over medium heat until it is tender (about 20 minutes). to start a spring meal Drain any excess water and lightly drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. Sauté the shallot is Frankel’s Asparagus and mushroom until lightly browned. Add to the quinoa with remaining ingredients. Soup. I do think it is a Salt and pepper to taste. little too thin and light on flavor and would recommend water used to thicken the soup; adding more shallots for flavor, and and dredging the beef in hawaij. less broth in order to achieve some (Solomonov’s recipe for the ha- texture. waiij is not only simpler, but more The recipe calls for transferring flavorful and much less aggressive the ingredients to a blender and than that in Ottolenghi’s Jerusa- then returning the puree to the lem.) Finally, on Day #3 I put it all stockpot. I may sound like a bro- together. A Blog That Mixes the Perfect Drink ken record (remember those?), but I served the soup with warm I would encourage you to invest in Lachuch, a fragrant Yemenite bread for Every Torah Portion an immersion blender. The cost is seasoned with fenugreek. Made low and the convenience is great. Q: Why don’t Jews with both yeast and baking soda, OMG is all I can say about Fran- drink? it was bubbly and spongy, with a kel’s Herb-Roasted Chicken With A: It interferes with texture similar to that of Ethiopian Quinoa-Mushroom Pilaf. While the their suffering. injera. recipe is a bit of a patchke, it is so That’s the myth, The Freekeh with Chicken and well worth it. Fresh herbs, wine, in any case, but the Almonds was not as flavorful as I citrus juices and zests combine to delightful mixol- would have liked, perhaps because make a scrumptious roast chicken. ogy blog Tippling I used olive oil rather than the It was so good that Joel mopped up Through the Torah called-for schmaltz. (Who knew? the drippings with his challah. seems destined to Cholesterol be damned, schmaltz is The image of meringue clouds explode it. “In every the new “it” food!) floating in a sea of frothy pink in portion, there’s a I was happy to find that Zahav’s Floating Islands with Strawber- drink just waiting recipe for my beloved bourekas is All the fixings for a Red Heifer ry Fruit Soup was enticing, so I to be discovered,” is easy, although you do have to leave couldn’t wait to try it. While the one of its mottos. plenty of time for the non-active soup was tasty, the instructions Apparently so. Writes er plate, and two different her creation “The Red Heif- phases. Solomonov offers three should have been vetted for clari- Jewniverse’s Tamar Fox: drinks for Purim, the Gold- er,” concocted from Aperol options for fillings; I chose a savory ty. After macerating the berries to “Amateur bartender and en Scepter, and Vashti’s [an aperitif], rhubarb sim- combination of mushroom, onion draw out the juice, was I supposed Kiddush Club devotee at Tuchis. ple syrup, cranberry juice, and garlic. Make sure to drain the to put all the sugar and juices Congregation Rodfei Zedek “The cocktails are fan- and pale ale. Her commen- liquid from the vegetables before into the blender with the berries? in Hyde Park, Chicago, tastic and really creative, tary about Parsahat Balak, spooning onto the pastry circles. Not clear. Next, when I poured the Andrea Frazier started the but the best part is Fra- about Balaam and his Otherwise, you will have soggy pureed berries into the sieve, as in- blog in October 2015, on a zier’s funny and irreverent donkey, is hilarious, and bourekas. structed, the mixture did not strain dare from the rabbi. Each Torah commentary. (“So completely inappropriate The recipe for Chicken Albondi- through. I ended up using the week the Kiddush Club Pharaoh’s heart was still for a family publication (as gas came to Israel with Solomon- unstrained puree. And, who has reads the Torah portion hard, and G-d decided to is Rashi’s commentary, at ov’s grandmother via Bulgaria, quarter-cup of champagne lying and picks a few key themes re-enact a pivotal episode least according to Frazier’s where the family lived after fleeing around? I used a mix of cranberry or passages to help her of Little House On The Prai- Kiddush Club compatriots). the Spanish Inquisition. These juice and seltzer, which did give the create a new drink. For rie.”) She’s like Rashi, if he So l’Chaim. As Tippling absolutely delicious little balls of soup a nice bit of fizz. the end of the Ten Plagues had access to really great Through the Torah aims to ground chicken are mixed with One last complaint: the book (Parashat Bo) a Dark and liquor (which, as a vintner, prove, according to anoth- garlic, onion, sliced almonds, and wouldn’t stay open. Note to pub- Stormy. For Lot’s Wife maybe he did).” er of its mottos: “Some- celery and graced with a nice dose lishers: we shouldn’t have to place turning into a Pillar of Salt In the weeks leading up times, tradition can only be of cinnamon and smoked paprika. heavy weights on a cookbook just (Vayera) a drink called to our publication date, explained with a glass of I set the albondigas atop a bed of to stay on the page. the Pillar of Salt, which Frazier pondered the be- something delicious.” rice and poured over the whole his Next up was Michael Solomon- combines coconut water, wildering rituals laid out in Tippling Through the tomato sauce redolent of coriander, ov’s Zahav, a fabulously illustrated tequila, lime juice, Bacos, Parshat Hukkat, “that all Torah is at: https:// onion, and garlic. Definitely a keep- book with great background on and a salt rim. Frazier and of the Sages, who presum- tipplingthroughthetorah. er, and made even more attractive the recipes and on his life. I first the Kiddush Club even do ably were not under the wordpress.com/. by being easy to prepare. learned of the chef when we tried drinks for Jewish holidays, influence…were completely Jewniverse is at (unsuccessfully) to get reservations including an alcoholic Sed- confused by,” while sharing thejewniverse.com. Av-Elul 5776 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org Page 27

FOOD AND DRINK It’s not a bird – it’s SuperMeat: Israeli startup aims to grow meat without the animal By Andrew Tobin TEL AVIV (JTA) – The founders of an Israeli food tech startup to be divided on this issue. He said that’s partly want you to enjoy your meat without the guilt – in fact, without because religious Zionists are willing to consider the animal. extralegal factors, like the welfare of the planet, SuperMeat, which launched in December and began an more than haredi Orthodox rabbis would. Israel’s online crowdfunding campaign in July, is developing a method Chief Rabbinate will err on the side of the hared- for bioengineering “cultured meat” from animal cells. Its tagline: im, Cherlow predicted. “Real meat, without harming animals.” “The Rabbinate is trying to include every- Imagine a chicken breast without the chicken, developed in one, so therefore it will go to the more extreme a machine from cells taken from a living bird and cultured in a opinions,” he said. “But I think when there is a nutrient-rich stock. big need, I think most of the rabbis will say you The company has won notice in Israel with slick marketing, should” accept the more lenient position. celebrity endorsements, and news coverage. But the increased Asked if cultured pork would be kosher, awareness has raised tough questions for two highly principled Cherlow said: “Emotionally it’s more difficult. But groups of Israeli eaters: Kashrut observers and vegans. logically it’s the same answer.” SuperMeat’s co-founder and co-CEO, Koby Barak, himself a The New York-based Orthodox Union has yet longtime vegan and animal rights activist, said his company’s to take a position on cultured meat. (The group cultured meat will be both kosher and vegan-friendly, and he doesn’t recognize pig gelatin as kosher.) But Rab- has the supporters to prove it. bi Moshe Elefant, the chief operating officer of the “I have spoken to about 10 rabbis and I don’t see any prob- OU’s kashrut department, suggested the product Chickens, such as this featherless variety lem. It will be kosher,” Barak told JTA. “The vast majority of the sounded a lot like meat. He also confirmed that created at the Rehovot Agronomy Institute vegan-vegetarian movement is very supportive, and we thank the OU’s position would be based solely on Jew- near Tel Aviv, would be spared under a them for really supporting us.” ish law. bioengineering method being developed by the Among rabbis and vegan activists, though, the debate over NOT A BIRD, Israeli food tech startup SuperMeat. exactly what to make of SuperMeat, and cultured meat in gener- continued on page 28 al, is far from resolved. SuperMeat is not the first cultured meat company, but it is the first to focus on chicken. Others have already pro- duced beef, and at least one is working on pork. Mark Post, who made headlines with the first cultured hamburger in 2013, told JTA he hopes to be the first to get his product, recently branded Mosa Meat, to market – in four to five years. What SuperMeat thinks makes it unique is its patented technology, which is being developed by a company co-founder and its head of research, Yaa- kov Nahmias, a biomedical engineer at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Production is to work like this: Cells will be harmlessly taken from a chicken and put into a special machine that sim- ulates the bird’s biology, allowing them to self-assemble into meat. Barak said the process could revolu- tionize how the world eats, striking a ma- Sixth Annual Concert to support the Samuel B. Hanser Visionary Award jor blow against environmental degrada- tion, animal suffering and global health featuring pandemics. Other meats could be made using more or less the same process, he said. WOMEN OF THE WORLD The Indiegogo fundraising goal is $100,000, which Barak hopes will demonstrate consumer interest to in- vestors, from whom it will need to raise millions more. August 17 | 7:30 pm | Kripalu Center for Yoga & Health Science aside, SuperMeat certainly stands out for its marketing. Between the videos of actors and models on the company’s Facebook page are taped testi- Experience the versatile Women of the World as monials by haredi Orthodox and religious Zionist rabbis. they perform music of diverse cultures—integrating Dov Lior, the chief rabbi of Hebron and Kiryat Arba in the West Bank, and their own unique heritages and musical styles in Yuval Cherlow, a Ranaana rabbi who helped found the religious Zionist rab- beautiful harmony. Enhance your evening with binical group Tzohar, argue on video that SuperMeat will be parve. They say dinner, yoga, or overnight accommodations. animal cells don’t count as meat and that SuperMeat’s process anyway transforms the cells into an entirely new substance. Based on similar logic, they say, gelatin Ticket packages and more information derived from pigs is kosher – a position with which many other Orthodox rabbis on the Samual B. Hanser Visionary Award disagree. “Here, from the beginning it’s not con- kripalu.org/hanserevent sidered meat because it’s a microscopic thing…. And even if it were really meat, because it changed its form, a ‘new face has arrived here’ and it’s not considered meat, and it’s clearly parve,” said Lior, The Samuel B. Hanser Award honors the spirit and vision of Samuel B. Hanser and is targeted specifically to advance using a Talmudic expression meaning innovation in yoga research, furthering the goal of making yoga more accessible and accepted throughout society as a that something that had previously been means for creating health and well-being. forbidden is no longer forbidden because of changing circumstances. On the other hand Yisrael Rosen, head of the Zomet Institute, which works to reconcile Orthodox Jewish law and technology, says SuperMeat is meat and suggests it will need rabbinic supervision. Cherlow told JTA he expects haredi Orthodox and religious Zionist rabbis Page 28 Berkshire Jewish Voice • jewishberkshires.org August 5 to September 18, 2016 WORLD NEWS 13 Insects and Other Strange Organisms Named After Jews By Gabe Friedman / JTA

The Cleveland Museum of Natural History last spring an- Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel — Avalanchurus simoni, nounced that a newly identified species of praying mantis was Avalanchurus garfunkeli (trilobites) Other musicians who named after Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg. have Avalanchurus trilobites named for them include John Researchers from the museum said they meant to honor the Lennon and Ringo Starr. Jewish justice’s “relentless fight for gender equality.” It makes sense. Ilomantis ginsburgae is the first mantis classi- Jon Stewart — Aleiodes fied by distinct qualities in its female reproductive parts, rather stewarti (wasp) Researchers than its male ones. Plus, the bug has a neck plate that resem- didn’t explain why this specif- bled Ginsburg’s trademark ruffled collars. ic wasp was named after the As it happens, Ginsburg is far from the first Jewish celebrity former Daily Show host. But to be so honored. Here are 13 more of the world’s most Jewish Stewart was known to make insects and organisms, preceded by their namesakes. the occasional WASP joke.

Lou Reed — Loureedia (spider) This species is classified Carole King — Anacro- among a rare group of “velvet spiders” and lives underground neuria carole (stonefly)The — so it’s only natural that it bears the name of the late Velvet legendary songwriter’s dedica- Underground frontman. Israel is one of the few countries in the tion to environmental causes world where the species is found. inspired Mississippi College professor Bill Stark to name one of the 390 or so stoneflies he classified after her. PHOTO: ZOOKEYS L.L. Zamenhof — Zamen- Aleiodes stewarti hofella (wasp) Eccentric American taxonomist Alexan- dre Girault named this wasp after the Polish-Lithuanian inventor who created Esperan- to, the world’s most successful constructed language, because he liked him. You need a better reason?

Sigmund Freud — Cyclo- cephala freudi, Lepithrix freudi (beetles) In 1897, the pioneering psychologist wrote Loureedia about a patient who had an anxiety-inducing experience with scarab beetle as a child Joey Ramone — Mackenzieurus joeyi (trilobite) Since and associated a variety of 1997, this extinct marine arthropod (an invertebrate creature feelings with the bug. But what with an exoskeleton and antennae) from the Silurian geological really motivated researchers to Coloborhynchus spielbergi period has been named after the late punk icon (née Jeffrey Ross name this beetle after him is Hyman). The other, non-Jewish members of The Ramones have anyone’s guess.

their own trilobite namesakes as well. ALL PHOTOS: WIKIMEDIA COMMONS EXCEPT AS NOTED Andrew Garfield — Pritha garfieldi (spider) This one is a no-brainer. The Jewish actor starred as Spider-Man in two films released in 2012 and 2014. And yes, Tobey Maguire, who played Spider-Man in a series before Garfield did, also has a spider spe- cies named after him. NOT A BIRD, continued from page 27

“We of course are very behind the project,” said 269 working on compassion. We concerned about the environ- founder Sasha Boojor, who is are working on justice. And ment, but our first consider- known for having used a hot that’s what really attracts me ation is always halachah,” he iron to brand himself with his to my vegan activism.” told JTA. movement’s numbers during a Anonymous, another Israeli SuperMeat’s concerns are 2012 animal rights protest in activist group, sent JTA a more in line with those of Tel Aviv. “Of course it would statement saying: “We wish vegans and animal activists. be best if people decided to SuperMeat best of luck with After all, much of the com- stop eating animals all togeth- the research, we welcome pany’s staff comes from that er, but it’s not the reality we’re any initiative that can help world. Like Barak, SuperMe- facing right now. And this animals. However, we must at co-founder and co-CEO research can address the suf- remember that as consumers, Ido Savir has been a vegan fering of hundreds of billions we don’t need to wait for a sci- and animal rights activist for of animals who are suffering entific breakthrough in order nearly two decades. Both men each year for no reason at all.” to save animals. ... There is no left jobs in Israel’s high-tech Boojor added: “If people nutritional need for meat.” industry to join the compa- eat cultured meat, I have no Nahmias, the scientific

ANTHROPODA SELECTA ny and focus full time on the problem at all. I don’t have a brain behind SuperMeat and Pritha garfieldi cause of cultured meat. problem eating it myself.” a rare omnivore on staff, told These deep roots in Isra- But other activists caution JTA his work is motivated by el’s surging vegan and animal against being seduced by Su- his love of schnitzel, an Israeli Karl Marx — Marxella, Marxiana (wasps) The German-Jew- rights movement give Super- perMeat. staple that he said is becoming ish philosopher and economist (whose maternal grandfather Meat street cred. Enthusiastic “SuperMeat is not the increasingly unsafe to eat. was a rabbi) has a pair of wasps named for him. No word on the supporters include the vegan change of mindset that we “As a kid, I was eating what wasps’ feelings about the division of labor in their nests. activist and restaurateur Ori are working on,” said Sharbel my mother and my grand- Shavit and leaders of the Isra- Balloutine, the founder of an mother were cooking. And I Steven Spielberg — Coloborhynchus spielbergi (pterosaur) el-based advocacy groups The Arab-Israel group called The want my kids to be able to eat The Jurassic Park director has a real-life dinosaur — a pterosaur Vegan North and 269. Vegan Human, which works the same kind of schnitzel,” he found in Brazil — named after him. “I’m a great admirer of with Jews to promote vegan- said. “That’s the reason that I the dedication of the people ism and animal rights. “We are do this.” Harry Houdini — Houdinia flexilissima (moth)This moth is described as one of the thinnest in the Lepidoptera (moth and butterfly) family, and it burrows so deep inside the plant it feeds off of that it seems to disappear. Sound like a magic trick? Noam Chomsky — Megachile chomskyi (bee) (See page 1.) website! Some forget that the far-left political theorist was first a linguis- www.jewishberkshires.org tics professor — which may be the reason this long-tongued bee Check out our species was named after him. INCLUDES A CALENDAR OF PROGRAMS AND EVENTS SPONSORED BY THE BERKSHIRE JEWISH COMMUNITY