Kol Hadash Fall 2019 BJ.org
In this issue Opening Thought: Page 2
Prayer, Music & Spirituality: Page 12
Social Justice and Activism: Page 15
Contents
Opening Thought A Rabbinic Word
Opening Thought.........................2 Learning, Growth & Families.......3
The Effect of Jewish Summer Camp................................4 New Faces.......................................4 Kadima@BJ Electives......................5 Teen Trip: Immigration in America..................5
Community, Caring & Belonging.................................... 6 The BJ Archives Committee: Preserving the Past; Illuminating Our Journey................7 From the Dusky Desk... ..................8 Jewish Home Project......................9
Life Moments & Milestones.......10
Births, B’nai Mitzvah, Deaths ........ 11
Prayer, Music & Spirituality....... 12 New Faces in BJ’s Growing
Mindfulness Practice..................... 13 Breaking New Ground with the Yetzirah Cohort for Spiritual Transformation............... 14
Social Justice & Activism........... 15
BJ Launches Race and Us, a New Year-Long initiative............ 16
Advancing BJ............................. 17
What Does It Take for BJ To Be BJ?............................. 18 2020 Projected Operating Budget......................... 19 Thank You, Donors....................... 20
In many languages there are words that are their own antonyms: they also mean their opposite. It may seem unlikely at first but, with just a few examples, you’ll see that many of these words are part of our everyday vocabulary. The word cleave, for instance, means to cut in half and to stick together. Sanction means permission to do something and a measure that forbids it to be done. There are many such words, called contronyms, such as clip, fast, left, seed, and strike. A Hebrew contronym, most appropriate for this time of year, is shanah, the word for year, which also means both to repeat and to change. We arrive at the threshold of a new year: Do we repeat or do we change? Perhaps more precisely, what must we repeat and what must we change? To live is to be in motion; to change and to evolve. But to live is also to be rooted; to be attached and to follow patterns. To live is, indeed, to inhabit the tension between repeating and changing. This is one of our great challenges, and it demands discernment, wisdom, and lots of soul searching. A true Jewish spiritual community must support its members in that pursuit. A true Jewish spiritual community must simultaneously lead back to the roots and serve as witness for what is unfolding. A true Jewish spiritual community has a responsibility: to
be faithful and to evolve, to be anchored and to be relevant, to revere and to defy. This has always been our aspiration at BJ. To always be a contronym community that repeats and changes. You will see this reflected in the multiplicity of our programs this coming year, in our praying, in our learning, in all our doing. You will see this reflected in the pages of this Kol Hadash. You may have noticed a new look for this Kol Hadash, it is a precursor of an entirely new look for BJ in print and online. We have worked over the past year with a talented and creative team to develop a new graphic identity for BJ that reflects our dynamic ethos. Our new logo, which will be revealed shortly with the launch our new website, represents the ever evolving BJ that lives in the present and anticipates the future, even as it remains deeply rooted in the rich soil of history. May we be blessed with another year of vitality and creativity, of community, and of service. L’shanah tovah tikatevu, Rabbi Roly Matalon
Learning, Growth & Families
In this section • • • •
The Effect of Jewish Summer Camp New Faces Kadima@BJ Electives Teen Trip: Immigration in America
Learning, Growth & Families
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The Effect of Jewish Summer Camp
Alice Tecotzky When tasked with explaining the effect of Jewish summer camp, I, the self-identified writer, always find myself embarrassingly incoherent. To articulate all that URJ Eisner Camp has taught me or express the depth of my summer friendships seems an impossible feat, but, due to my belief that Eisner’s impact must be readily disseminated, I feel compelled to try. I first began attending Eisner in 2011; though in that first year I undoubtedly enjoyed camp and reveled in its many joys, I had yet to conceptualize the myriad ways in which Eisner would serve as a catalyst
for my growth. With each passing summer I became more enmeshed in the lives of my friends, more aware of my surroundings, and more sure of not only of who I currently was, but of who I hoped to become. As a camper, Eisner enabled me to simultaneously escape life’s often burdensome seriousness and authentically consider how I could infuse my life with meaning, which is perhaps a topic more serious than any other. Nowhere else have I found such a sacred balance. Now, as a counselor for seven- and eightyear-olds, I see my younger self reflected in the campers I so admire and love; in
their laughter I hear my own 2011 giggles, and only in witnessing my own experience through a new lens have I genuinely begun to understand how intensely Eisner has molded my identity and sense of self. The experience of attending a Jewish summer camp is not finite; it ripples through the spheres of your life, affecting how you exist in all spaces, both explicitly and implicitly. There are few statements I can make with absolute confidence, but this is one of them: I am better for having attended Eisner, and the world is better for having Eisner in it.
New Faces We are excited to welcome incredible new staff members to our Family Life and Learning Team. Rachel Barnehama, Associate Director of Family Life and Learning rbarnehama@bj.org, x 244 Laura Schultze, Assistant Director Youth and Teen Engagement lschultze@bj.org, x 242 Makai Dorfman, Family Educator mdorfman@bj.org, x 248 Left to rght: Makai Dorfman, Laura Schultze, Danielle Freedman, Rachel Barnehama, Michael Witman.
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Kadima@BJ Electives Rachel Barnehama Making historically Jewish food. Storytelling through the lens of the Holocaust. Traveling through Jewish history. Exploring Jewish Immigration in NYC. What do these things have in common? They are all offered as Kadima@BJ electives. In thinking about designing our 2019-20 elective program, there was one question that kept arising: How do we create a space for students that feels like their own, while competing with the complexity of afterschool schedules and allowing students to take ownership over their own learning? This year, the Kadima@BJ electives will provide deep Jewish learning in a fun and engaging context. One of the biggest challenges of supplementary school education is finding a way to create educational programs that are engaging, exciting, and inspiring. In our Thursday student-only electives, we
strive to instill a sense of Jewish pride and belonging—both here at BJ and in the Jewish community at large—through hands-on multi-disciplinary experiences, such as art, drama, music, walking tours, and cooking; all rooted in Jewish text and history. Through a flexible elective schedule, students will develop a sense of ownership, comfort, and enthusiasm around their Jewish identity. There’s something for everyone, which is why students have the opportunity to choose three electives to engage in over the course of the year. And that isn’t just for our Thursday kidonly electives. That applies to our Family electives too. This year we are offering multiple options, from understanding Shabbat basics to embodying Jewish values to understanding Jewish views on the environment. Through our family electives parents and children will gain a deeper understanding of Judaism and feel better connected to each other and the BJ
Kadima@BJ Kadima@BJ, our Hebrew school, ensures that our children feel ownership, excitement, and comfort over their Jewish identity. For our 3rd-6th graders there is flexibility in our elective program where we let families choose three to engage in over the course of the year. At Kadima there’s something for everyone!
community by learning together and experiencing Shabbat. Learn more about Kadima@BJ by emailing rbarnehama@ bj.org
Teen Trip: Immigration in America Laura Schultze It’s all over the news today: refugees and immigration. There are people struggling and we are all eager to help—but how can we? Is there anything we can do? In the past, on the years when we didn’t go on the Civil Rights Journey, we have taken 8th and 9th graders to New Orleans to talk about natural disasters and to learn about food deserts, but this coming January, we will be digging deeper into the topics of immigration and refugees by traveling to Arizona and exploring Phoenix, Tucson, and visiting Nogales. Historically, Arizona has taken in more refugees than all but just a handful of other states, despite the efforts of lawmakers to change that. By the end of the Obama administration, between 300 and 500 refugees were arriving in Arizona each month, mostly from Cuba, Iraq, Syria, Somalia, and the Democratic Republic of
hope that they will understand the involvement of non-profit organizations in supporting immigrants and refugees in the United States. We hope they will understand that immigration is extremely political today and always has been, and the people who ultimately suffer are those trying to come to the United States for legitimate reasons. They will have the opportunity to learn from individuals who are affected by immigration laws in our country, and meet the people who are enforcing current bans and laws. The trip will take place over Martin Luther King Day Weekend, from January 16-20, 2020. Find out more information about this opportunity by contacting Laura Schultze, lschultze@bj.org
“Historically, Arizona has taken in more refugees than all but just a handful of other states, despite the efforts of lawmakers to change that.” the Congo. In 2018, Arizona only resettled 652 refugees, an 87% decrease from 2016, and a 77% decrease from 2017. Federal officials announced plans to let no more than 45,000 refugees into the country but, with the travel bans and the stopping of refugee admissions, the US won’t even reach half that number. So what are we hoping to achieve from this trip? We hope that our 8th and 9th graders will gain an appreciation for Jewish Phoenix and southwestern Judaism. We
Community, Caring & Belonging
In this section • The BJ Archives Committee: Preserving the Past; Illuminating our Journey • From the Dusky Desk... • Jewish Home Project
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The BJ Archives Committee: Preserving the Past; Illuminating Our Journey Colin A. Weil Did you know that BJ has a formal archive? The Archives Committee is a wonderful volunteer effort, led by Myriam Abromowitz and Ilene Richman, who together with their dedicated team help to preserve, organize, and interpret the material culture which reflects our rich history from 1825 to today. While the Jewish Theological Seminary was given a substantial trove of archival materials through 1994, our on-site Archive also contains some material from our early days, but is heavily weighted to mid-90s to present. With both print and digital media, video and audio recordings, professional and personal photographs, and many physical objects, the BJ Archive is a collected reflection of the daily life of our community. The Archive team also searches for and acquires books and articles which reference BJ, our leaders, and our important social justice work. And there is still much work to be done: scanning, cataloging, labeling, and more. As we begin to imagine our bicentennial celebration, a fully indexed and digitized Archive will be the foundation of the important storytelling that is to come. If you have spare time during weekdays, and would like to help, please email archives@ bj.org. And keep an eye out in the KJ for special projects requiring specific skills. Later this fall, we will celebrate the work of the Archives committee with a special Shabbat, which will include tours of the archive and a more indepth look at the collections. What does BJ Archives do? 1. Organize and store records, both print and digital, that reflect BJ’s history from 1825 to the present 2. Document BJ’s buildings and historical artifacts 3. Gather books and articles that reference BJ
4. Show the people that make up BJ 5. Organize and store “Do not forget!” materials 6. Capture activities that reflect BJ’s daily activities and special events The Archives committee could use some help! Over the coming weeks and months, check the Kol Jeshurun and Kol Hadash for more information
about upcoming projects or, to be notified of new projects, email archives@bj.org. Please include any special technical skills you have. Right now we are looking for • BJ members from the 1980s and 1990s who can help identify individuals in period photographs • Current members who can help organize and digitize old audio materials.
Can you identify this man? Our congregation has a rich history, beginning with its founding in 1825. As we approach our 200th anniversary the Archives Committee is working to preserve and share B’nai Jeshurun through the centuries. Sometimes we come across an item, such as the 89th St bust, that is missing essential information. The figure’s clothing suggests the 19th century while the lack of a beard indicates he was probably not a rabbi. Was he a founder, a trustee or a lay leader? (Until the mid-19th century, BJ, like most U.S. synagogues, did not have any ordained rabbis leading the congregation.) Any one know who he might be? We need your help to solve this mystery as well as move forward with the ongoing work of the Archives committee. In addition to documenting the past we preserve the present for the congregation of the future by showing the people, events and activities that are B’nai Jeshurun now. We also organize and store “Do not forget!” materials and contribute to gallery exhibits. We are currently looking for: photographers to document the stained glass windows in 88th and 89th St; BJ members from the 1980’s/1990’s who can identify individuals in period photographs and current members who can help organize and digitize audio materials. To contact Archives, email archives@bj.org. Over the coming months, check the Kol Jeshurun and Kol Hadash for more information about new projects. If you would like to know more about our congregation’s history please come to services on Shabbat, October 18th and 19th. Tours led by Archives members following services will highlight some things you probably never knew about BJ and a talk after kiddush on October 19th will provide more information about our history and the work of Archives. Join us for a great weekend.
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From the Dusty Desk of the Executive Director
Colin A Weil While summer is known for sun and sand, family time, rest, and relaxation, here at BJ, summer is also synonymous with construction. Along with BJ, both the IDEAL School and Riverside Language Program have limited programming in July and August, so this is the perfect time to get the loud and dirty work done. The focus this summer was on the Community House elevators replacement, building out the Sanders-Gardner Teen Lounge on the mezzanine, and continued work on the Community House exterior, including finishing the restoration of the 6th floor terrace. completed before Labor Day and both new elevators are now in service (see photos above and right). This summer we also made significant progress planning the restoration of the Sanctuary stained glass and the replacement of the Community House windows, work which will commence next summer, along with continued facade restoration. We are moving through the process with our Homeland Security Grant, and we will post our RFPs (requests for proposals) before the end of the fall, for work to commence in the spring. In other news, some of you may already have noticed a change in our overall program schedule. After much analysis in the spring, and as we shared at the Annual Meeting this past June, we have determined that there was an important opportunity to reduce expenses by taking a more structured approach to our
program schedule and building operating hours. By reducing the use of the building on Sunday afternoons and evenings, and on Monday and Tuesday evenings, we will save on security and operations staff, and on utilities. As part of this shift, some smaller programs and meetings will move to members’ homes, reviving a BJ tradition of home-hospitality and offering a more intimate communal experience. As always, I welcome questions you may have, and I’m always happy to give campus tours.
Above: Sanders-Gardner Teen Lounge in progres (far left, completed (Center and right). Below, top row: Elevator motors, before and after; bottom row: 6th Floor Terrace, in progress and finished.
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Jewish Home Project Sarah Rosenthal The Jewish Home Project (JHP) was established in 2018 as an extension of BJ’s vision to support individuals with a wide range of Jewish identities, backgrounds, and Jewish knowledge and provide the tools to help them lead Jewish lives and create Jewish homes. JHP welcomes all, and is inclusive of multi faith families, multi heritage families, the LGBTQ+ community, those who have converted, people of all racial and cultural backgrounds, and anyone who wants to lead a Jewish life. Through JHP, several new programs have been created at BJ to foster the vision of the Jewish Home Project for the larger Jewish community. The Next Stop series was created with the intention of supporting individuals, couples, and families during major life transitions. The three-part expert-led
With a similar structure, Next Stop...Kids created a space for parents who are expecting (or planning to be) to discuss creating a nurturing Jewish home for children, and build a community with other soon-to-be and new parents. Through building community, resources, and programming, The Jewish Home Project provides tools for people to meaningfully incorporate Jewish traditions and rituals into their homes and lives. Both Next Stop... Marriage and Next Stop...Kids will run again this year, with the addition of programming for young couples, and a continuation of the Family Life and Learning programming for parents and children.
“... The Jewish Home Project provides tools for people to meaningfully incorporate Jewish traditions and rituals into their homes and lives.” series is geared toward people seeking out Judaism to help guide meaningful decision making and relationship building. This past year, Next Stop...Marriage offered eight couples an opportunity to learn about wedding rituals and begin exploring the foundation of marriage through a Jewish lens. With sessions led by a rabbi, clinical psychologist and certified financial planners, Next Stop...Marriage established a track of programming for couples at BJ.
What Matters: End of Life Conversations The hardest conversations are also the most important ones. If you haven’t yet thought about your end-of-life plans, trained facilitators can help you identify what is important to you, so that you can share your wishes with your loved ones. This fall, BJ will host in-home gatherings on this topic. Contact Billie (bdistefano@bj.org or x264) for more information about What Matters: End of Life Conversations.
Life Moments & Milestones
In this section • Births • B’nai MItzvah • Deaths
Life Moments & Milestones As of May–August 2019 Births Mazal tov to members Carolina, Andy, and Sophie Neiman, and Patricia and Javier Neiman, on the birth of their son, brother, and grandson, Alexander Miki Neiman. B’nai Mitzvah Mazal tov to the following members and their families: Eliza Knoepflmacher, her parents Amy Veltman and Daniel Knoepflmacher, and her sister Lucy Knoepflmacher, on Eliza becoming a Bat Mitzvah. Jacob Bergson, his parents Johanna and Malachi Bergson, his brother Luke Bergson, and his grandparents Dr. Allen and Deirdre Bergson, on Jacob becoming a Bar Mitzvah. Ella Vanderhoek, her parents Stephanie Green and Zeke Vanderhoek, and her sisters Ruby and Isabella Vanderhoek, on Ella becoming a Bat Mitzvah at International House in Harlem. Celia Lambert, her parents Vicky Kahn and Philippe Lambert, her brother Daniel Lambert, and her grandparents Nancy and Fred Kahn and Michèle and Jacques Lambert on Celia becoming a Bat Mitzvah.
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Nathaniel Glass and his mother, Diane Glass, on Nathaniel becoming a Bar Mitzvah. Joshua Bromberg, his parents, Renee Rachelle and Lawrence Bromberg, and his sister, Stephanie Bromberg, on Joshua becoming a Bar Mitzvah in Israel on June 27. Valerie Heather Joy Lissaur, her parents, Michael André Lissaur and Debby Rauch Lissaur, and her brother, Jesse Liron Mackoff Lissaur on Valerie becoming a Bat Mitzvah. Thomas Ulysse Darmon-Sanger, his parents Victoria Sanger and Jean-Charles Darmon, his stepmother Catherine Nguyen, and his brothers Julian Cambier, Jack Kruit, and Louis Darmon-Sanger on Thomas becoming a Bar Mitzvah.
Deaths The community of B’nai Jeshurun mourns the death of the following members, and we extend our sincere condolences to their loved ones. Miriam Rothenberg Dominique Boer Ronnet Glezer Ivan Stux Thomas Gustav Buchler Barbara Aber Peter Sturtevant Share your life moments and milestones with BJ by emailing Billie DiStefano at bdistefano@bj.org. For lifecycle emergencies, call 212-787-7600 x1.
Planned Giving Making a planned gift to BJ ensures that your commitment to our spirited and dynamic community continues to help us grow, innovate, and make lasting social change for generations to come. To find out more about how you can create a meaningful legacy through supporting the BJ community, visit www.bj.org/plannedgiving or contact Jennifer Rubenstein at 212-787-7600 x252.
Prayer, Music & Spirituality
In this section • New Faces in BJ’s Growing Mindfulness Practice • Breaking New Ground with the Yetzirah Cohort for Spiritual Transformation
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New Faces in BJ’s Growing Mindfulness Practice Cantor David Mintz With another year of growth and development in BJ’s Center for Prayer and Spirituality, the communities commitment to meditation and mindfulness practice continues to deepen. The growth of the coming year will be brought forward through the commitment of our current staff and lay leaders, in addition to a series of new faces, representing some of the leading teachers and artists in the world of Jewish meditation and soul-stirring music today. Our monthly series of Mindfulness Kabbalat Shabbat services will return on November 15, and will now be held in the Rabbi Rachel Cowan Chapel, bearing the name of such a dear teacher who helped to spearhead contemplative practice in our community. In addition, the mindfulness prayer leadership team will be joined by composer, multi-instrumentalist, and recording artist, Elana Arian. Inspiring communities across the country, Elana recently released her third album of original music—A Spark of Light— a collaboration with Grammy-winning producer, Ben Wisch. Elana has served on the faculty of both Shirei Hagigah in London and the Hebrew Union College–Jewish Institute of Religion in New York. In addition to her work as a guest Artist in Residence for communities across the United States, Elana has written original music inspired by specific meditation practices and looks forward to enhancing those very practices in the BJ community. In addition, this year will introduce a new monthly series of mindfulness intensives,
each exploring a particular middah (spiritual character strength), through learning, meditation and music. To do this, we are welcoming a guest faculty from across the country, bringing a diverse breadth of talent and experience. In the coming months, we will welcome Yael Shy, Director of Global Spiritual Life at NYU, who most recently led BJ’s Meditation Minyan, as well as Rabbi Lisa Goldstein and Rabbi Marc Margolius, of this Institute for Jewish Spirituality. We look forward to another year that is rich with meaning, purpose and beauty and can’t wait for you to join us.
Below: Lisa Goldstein. Right, from top: Yael Shy, Elana Arian, Marc Margolius.
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Breaking New Ground with the Yetzirah Cohort for Spiritual Transformation Wish you could discover how prayer and spiritual practice is actually changing your life? Good news: You can. This year, BJ’s Center for Prayer and Spirituality is truly breaking new ground through the Yetzirah Cohort for Spiritual Transformation. Led by the Center’s director, Cantor David Mintz, this cohort will harness the tools of positive psychology to give us a deeper understanding of how prayer and spiritual practice is making a difference in our lives. Over the course of the coming year, the Yetzirah Cohort and its 25 members— drawn from all areas of BJ communal life—will be meeting monthly, with each member committing to an ongoing spiritual practice for the duration of the year. For some, this is a personal prayer practice while, for others, it’s meditation, yoga,
mussar, learning as spiritual practice, or a home-based ritual practice. While engaging in this practice and meeting in reflection groups, the cohort will then harness the research and tools of positive psychology—the scientific study of the strengths that enable each of us thrive—affirming that, in leading fulfilling lives, we can cultivate what is best within ourselves. Utilizing powerful metrics from the VIA Institute on Character, participants will take online assessments on a quarterly basis to determine which character strengths are most dominant in their current experience, as shaped by their spiritual practice. It might be perseverance and honesty, love and kindness, or humility and hope. Each member of this cohort will then see, in tangible terms, how they are growing and changing during this time of
committed, intentional practice. Are you growing in compassion through your yoga practice? Is meditation cultivating deeper lovingkindness in your life? What was once difficult to discern will become illuminated. For so many of us, the very word “spiritual” captures something that we can’t fully describe. A feeling; a connection; a yearning; an embrace; a presence; a hunch. To cultivate spiritual transformation, however, we need to hold a true understanding of what’s going on for us; how we’re growing and changing in our hearts, minds, and souls. Through this innovative work, members of the Yetzirah Cohort will, in a sense, be taking an x-ray of their spiritual practice and revealing the building blocks of a transformed spiritual life.
Social Justice & Activism
In this section • BJ Launches Race and Us, a New Year-Long Initiative • Synagogue Vegan Challenge • Help Immigrants Get Jobs
Social Justice & Activism
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BJ Launches Race and Us, a New Year-Long Initiative Earlier this month, we launched Race and Us, a yearlong initiative examining the role of race in Jewish identity, Jewish community, and American society. A primary goal for this year will be to understand the barriers to belonging that are uniquely felt by Jews of color. What assumptions do we make on the basis of skin color about who is ‘in’ and who is ‘out’ of the Jewish community? How are those assumptions expressed, and what is the impact of those words and actions? Because it is not possible to investigate these questions without examining the larger context of American society in which we live, a second goal will be to study how the history and role of race in America has shaped us and our institutions. We will look at the places where racism, both explicit and implicit, has created enduring inequity. And we will confront the realities of racism that America has never adequately grappled with, so that we can fulfill our moral and religious obligation to take part in the soul searching our country deeply needs. Our hope is to open a conversation that examines the complexities and nuances of race and racism, rooted in learning, critical thinking, and self reflection, separate from any particular political agenda. We are also grateful for the commitment of the Race and Us steering committee, and the leadership of the three co chairs, Vicki Abrams, Julie Kowitz Margolies and Eliana Slurzberg. Here we share reflections from Vicki and Julie on what participating in this project means to them.. Find out more at www.bj.org/raceandus. Julie Margolies Addressing discrimination and implicit bias has been a key aspect of my work throughout my career as a civil rights attorney and as a mediator. Yet even with this background, I hadn’t examined how implicit bias might present itself in my spiritual home. This humbling revelation
work will yield multi-faceted opportunities for each of us to engage with and educate ourselves about these issues and about the rich diversity of Jewish culture. I am energized by the hope that our community will work toward BJ becoming a place where no one is made to feel like an outsider because of their race or ethnicity, and where we are all enriched and uplifted by the diversity of our members. Continued on page 28
“What assumptions do we make on the basis of skin color about who is ‘in’ and who is ‘out’ of the Jewish community?” has made clear to me that addressing issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion is not only political work, it is spiritual work we must undertake as individuals and as a community. I believe the committee’s
Synagogue Vegan Challenge After a few years of interest from members of our BJ Environmental Advocates group (formerly the Environmental Justice Hevra), we were finally able to apply for the Shamayim: Jewish Animal Advocacy Synagogue Vegan Challenge. We are proud to be one of five communities chosen out of 20 applicants. This year, we will embark upon a journey and exploration around how Judaism is interconnected with caring for animals and plant-based living. In Judaism, there is a long history of being stewards of the earth, both passed down through tradition and codified in our laws. Now is the perfect moment to remember our connection to the earth and the environment around us. We hope that, by participating in this challenge, we can be open to new ways of thinking about our diets, whether from an environmental or health perspective, and dive deeper into what our tradition can teach us about a plantbased life and its impact on the world around us. We recognize that for some in our community, plant-based living has been a focus for many years while, for others, this may be a new area of exploration. We are excited to create a foundation this year where many in our community will get the opportunity to start (or continue) thinking about the relationship between Judaism, caring for animals, and plantbased living. Each month, we will take an existing program where food is served and replace what we normally order with vegan nosh or a meal, incorporating Jewish learning from our partners at Shamayim. We encourage everyone to take a brief survey at www.bj.org/synagogueveganchallenge, to help us and our partners at Shamayim better understand where our community is now and what might be useful over the course of this year as we learn together.
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Help Immigrants Get Jobs: Volunteer for BJ’s Job Readiness Team Over the last three years, the Job Readiness Team of BJ’s Refugee & Immigration Committee has developed and run an innovative program in resume building and job seeking skills, serving nearly 200 refugee and immigrant students enrolled in the Riverside Language Program (RLP), which has office and classroom space at BJ. The program was spearheaded by Robert Klein, the original Chair of the Job Preparation Team of BJ’s Refugee and Immigration Task Force. It relies entirely on volunteers to serve as instructors of workshop sessions and as one-on-one mentors. According to Berta Colón, Executive Director of RLP, “One of the challenges our students entering into the workforce faced was that they didn’t know how the job placement process works in the US and they needed help navigating the system.” “BJ’s workshops teach them the basics like how to write resumes, cover letters and use online job search tools. But a key aspect of the program has been mentorship. There are a number of students who have very specific goals in terms of the sectors they want to pursue, but they are outsiders who don’t have a network and don’t understand the nuances of each sector,” Berta said.
Even folks who grow up in this country and understand the language and the system find it hard to connect with people in their chosen field. Imagine how challenging it is for someone who is new to the country and doesn’t know how to navigate this system. “Pairing a student with a mentor who’s already in that field and knows how it works is enormously valuable. Our students say it’s incredibly helpful to interact with someone who understands the industry and can give them advice,” Berta added. BJ member Leslie Verter mentored a student who had done accounting. “When I asked her to be more specific, she said ‘payroll.’ I pressed her to go on and I learned that she was the assistant to the owner of a large company. That kind of detail can only come out one to one,” said Leslie. Peggy Foner, a retired hospital administrator, was paired with a young woman from Indonesia who had been a physician in her native country. Said Peggy, “While she couldn’t practice medicine in the US, there were a number of health care positions she could pursue with the right kind of certificate. I helped her fill out online applications, sharpen her resume and prepare for interviews. Today she is working as a phlebotomist at Quest Labs.”
“ It’s stories like these that show us the impact our program can have.” Penny Dannenberg mentored a Chinese woman in her early 30’s, who was terribly worried about money. Penny said, “She told me she worked in a bank, but because her English was halting and she was very shy, she was unable to articulate her responsibilities. After several weeks of one-on-one conversation, her English and her confidence improved enough for her to find a “survival job” so she could earn money while attending classes.” According to Committee Chair Debra Kalmuss, “It’s stories like these that show us the impact our program can have. We rely entirely on volunteers to serve as instructors and one-on-one mentors. One indication of the program’s success is that we have outgrown the capacity of our current workshop and mentoring volunteers, and we now require more volunteers to help us manage this growing project. We need you. Don’t stand by as the immigration debate plays out. Get involved with BJ’s Job Readiness Team.”
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What Does It Take for BJ To Be BJ? As I reflect back on the past year in the life of our wonderful congregation, I am both honored and humbled by what this community and our dedicated spiritual leadership and staff have done together and look forward to a bright future ahead. Your participation and financial support made 2018-2019 a year of incredible growth and transformation for B’nai Jeshurun. In 2018, our High Holy Days services included over 4,000 people, while in a more intimate vein, an evening Minyan that now supplements our daily morning Minyan gives members more options to experience the BJ community through prayer. BJ affords adults, children, teens and families abundant programs, classes and community service opportunities that
enrich the lives of individuals and enhance our collective sense of community. And each and every week, hundreds convene on Erev Shabbat and Shabbat morning for beautiful and meaningful services, the lifeblood of our congregation. At this time, I am pleased to share with you BJ’s 2020 Projected Operating Budget. Our community’s $9 million operating budget is realized through your membership and Kol Nidre Appeal contributions, annual fundraiser participation, foundation and grant support. While tzedekah is often characterized as meaning “charity,” Judaism more precisely views tzedekah as the mitzvah of ensuring fairness throughout a community. We experience every day how BJ embodies the
mitzvah of tzedekah, serving as a communal home where one is able to both receive and give support. It is because of our member donors that we have hope that BJ will continue to be a community where growth is achievable, activism is constant, and sustainability is possible. With you as our student, our teacher, our caregiver, our activist, we carry the light of limitless possibility for this community and the values we cherish so deeply. Thank you for making BJ your spiritual home and a philanthropic priority. This community is so fortunate to be partners on this journey. Amanda Greenawalt Director of Advancement
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2020 Projected Operating Budget ENDOWMENT
FY20 Budget Revenue
36% $3,350
HIP ERS
G R ANT S &
10% $933
& S ES A LE AL S NT E R
B EM M
9% $835
TU I P R TI O OG N & R FE A M ES
9% $784
C O N T R AC T S
Total Revenue $9.28 million
2% $185
34% $3,193
ANNUAL F UN D N
51% $4.664
ADVA NC
EM
EN T
M AD
ATIO STR IN I
CAM P
U
S O PE RA
26% $2,328
O TI
N
S S&
R ECU
IT Y
PROGRAM
Program includes: Shabbat & Holidays Family Life & Learning Tzedek/Social Justice Pastoral Care Adult Education Jewish Home Project
Total Expenses $9.13 million
Advancement includes: Development Membership Communications
11% $1,046
FY20 Budget Expenses
12% $1,113
Annual Fund includes: Kol Nidre Appeal, fundraising events, memorial and honorary gifts, progam support, etc.
Advancing BJ
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Thank You, Donors Each year we thank our donors who make gifts in addition to their membership dues during the prior fiscal year. These funds provide the support necessary to sustain our organization and keep it running for members 365 days a year. While membership, tuition, fees and other earned income provide just more than half of our operating budget, we depend on the generosity of our member donors for the remaining half. We are grateful for your ongoing support of B’nai Jeshurun.
Bradley and Carolyn Abelow Cara Aber and Matthew Mandell Jed Aber and Arianna Merems Nina Aber and Stuart Moskowitz Harriet Abraham Shirley Abraham Emily Abrahams Myriam Abramowicz Beryl Abrams Rachel Abrams and Pierre Sussman Vicki and William Abrams Iris and Richard Abrons Madelyn and Allen Adamson David Adelman and Ilana Feldberg Adelman Efrom and Harriet Adler Karen Adler and Laurence Greenwald Nathan Adler Hilary Agin and Jonathan Summer Judith Aiges Meg and Seth Akabas Sharon and Sheila Akabas Sandy Albert and Bob Gass Garrett and Nancy Karina Albistegui Adler David and Jillian Allweiss Amy Altman Anita Altman Marlene and Murray Altman Stephen Altman Arinn Amer and Avi Hoffman Gail Amsterdam Bret Ancowitz and Shirah Rubin Marcia Annenberg Carol Ansorge Sharon Anstey Sanford Antignas Bruce Appel Gary and Alyssa Apple Lois Arenson Sima Ariam Maurice and Michelle Arlos Heidi Aronin Dennis Adler and Robin Aronow Mitchell and Penny Arons Ron and Sandy Ashendorf
Judith Atkinson Elise and Marian Axelrad George Azarias Jody Baer Hannah Bailenson Michael Bailenson Arlene and Alan Baily Daniel Balaban Toby Baldinger Michael Gertzman and Carole Balin Paul and Stephanie Balint Michael Bar and Gabriel Katz Judith Barack Marion and Tzvi Barak Joshua Barbanel and Anemona Hartocollis Joyce Barco and Evan Lacher Phyllis Bard Richard and Lesley Baren Amotz Barnoy and Minna Elias Sarah Baron and Jeremy Kahan Laura and Richard Bass Lori Bassman Robert and Jane Baum Ted Becker and Christine Lin Lynn and Maurice Beer Matthew Beer and Jacqueline Yeh Beth and Arthur Belkin Nancy Beltrandi Manor Ben-Shaul Ellen and Samuel Bender Emily Benedek Amy Bennett Georgette Bennett and Leonard Polonsky Roni Bennevat Caroline Benveniste Marc Berenzweig Asya and Theodore Berger Barbara and Melvin Berger Mark Berger and Jane Eisner Pearla Bergfeld Meredith Berkman and Daniel Mintz Isabel Berkowitz Joel Berkowitz and Leslie Sweet
Aron and Manette Berlinger Jennifer Berman Melissa Berman and Richard Klotz David Bernard Gail Berney Monica Bernheim Dale and Gary Bernstein Debra Biegelson-Wechsler and Ron Wechsler Emily Bierman and Matt Doherty Andrea Bigelisen and Drew Kopf Robert Bildner and Elisa Spungen Bildner Paul Binder and Shelley Doctors Elliott Bird Darice Birge and Michael Handel Jonathan and Lauren Birnbaum Shirley Bisgeier Yildiz and Richard Blackstone Daniel Blaser Ronna Blaser Jeannie Blaustein and Peter Bokor Norman and Sheila Bleckner Helene Blieberg Ellen Bloch and Jeffrey Scott Johnson David Block and Elizabeth Lynn Jenny Bloom and Jacki Levy Leonard Bloom Barbara Blum Barbara Bock Dana and Jesse Bodine Marsha and Dominique Boer Stacy Bolton John Bonavita and Harold Bonavita-Goldman Allan and Renee Borkow Charles Borrok Rachel and Gregory Bovitz Michal Bowen Gabriel and Katherine Boyar Stacey Bradie and Todd Phillips Julie and David Brail Nancy Ramsey
We strive to have the most accurate data. If you feel there is an inaccuracy on this page please contact Jennifer Rubenstein, jrubesntein@bj.org.
Advancing BJ
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Thank You, Donors Arlene and Irwin Brandon Avery Brandon and Gary Hennion Clifford and Laura Brass Mandy Braun Sandra Brawarsky Ritalynne Brechner and Brian McGlynn Victor and Stephanie Brener Joan and Israel Brenner Ryan Brenner Loren Brenowitz Frances and Jonathan Brent Joe Bress Edward Brill and Michele Levin Deborah Brissman Jeanette Brizel Dov Bronner and Shula Wiener Brad Ruskin and Susan Brooks Robert and Tricia Brown Samuel and Rachel Bruce Burton, Cynthia and Seth Budick Yael Buechler and Yair Kramer Lisa Buksbaum Martin and Kathryn Bunin Janet Burak Eileen and Larry Butler Rory and Rachelle Butler Robert Buxbaum and Sonia Gluckman Debra and Edward Calb William and Patricia Call Charles Cantor Jacques and Karen Capelluto Audrey and Jacob Cappell Marion Capriotti Joan Cardell Zachary Cardell Ellen Carni Lynda and Robert Cassanos Susanne Catinella Joan and Steve Cela John Censor and Stephanie Graff Anita Chanko Todd Chanko and Ami Weil Susan Charney Joseph Checkler Sheryl Checkman Sandra Cheiten Renee Cherow-O’Leary and John O’Leary Larry and Susan Chinitz Adam and Linda Chinn Rachel Chodorov Laura and Andrew Chonoles Mort and Harriet Chwatsky
Rebecca Chynsky David and Herzlia Clain Barbara Cohen Dorothea Cohen and Simeon Baum Elizabeth Cohen Harry Cohen Madeline Cohen Paula Cohen and Samuel Hess Rebecca and Jared Cohen Robert Bank and Alan Cohen Rochelle and Don Cohen Rodney Cohen and Sheryl Green William and Gail Cohen Michelle Cohlan and Marcus Cohlan Debra Cohn Marian Cohn David Coleman and Gallit Schuller Lauren Coleman-Lochner and David Lochner Francine Collins Deborah Colson and Mark Diker Steven Conner Beatrice and Charles Cooper Elizabeth and Jay Cooper Sara Corderman Ellen Corenswet and John Morgan Ellen and Jonathan Coven Marianna Crespi and Daniel Goldfarb Thomas Strauss and Wendy Cromwell Elissa Cullman Robert Daley Lawrence and Susan Daniels Patty Dann Penelope and Steven Dannenberg Norman Danzig Bryan and Fern Daves Benjamin and Lisa-Karyn Davidoff Judith Davidoff Rosen Douglas and Sandra Davidson Laurie Davis Marvin Davis Michael Davis Lois de la Haba Mozart de Oliveira and Andrew Mandel Paul Deards and Sonia Taitz Jay Dengrove Myra Derkatch Bradley and Carolyn Desch Howard Dessau Helena Diamant Glass Robyn and Jon Diament Isaiah Dicker
Alan and Ruby Dienstag Carol and Andrew Dikman Donna and Thomas Divine Henry and Luisa Dlugacz Barbara and Eric Dobkin Alisa and Daniel Doctoroff Ariel Doctoroff Jacob Doctoroff Jenna Doctoroff Shirley Dorfman Dina Doustan Lawrence Drath and Audrey Sieger Sylvia Dresner Susan Drexler David Dreyfuss and Gertrude Chavez-Dreyfuss Donald Driss Yonah Levenson Ilona Coleman and Ken Druker Gail Dubov Paula Dubrow Alan Roemer Anne Ebersman and Dan Caligor Vivian Ebersman Peggy and James Edelson Gordon Edelstein Barbara Egdal Reva Egdal Alan and Janice Ehrenreich Anne Eidelman Marcy Einhorn Jenny Eisenberg laurel eisner Gail Eissenstat Michael Ekstract and Jennifer Zallen Andrew and Jill Ellner Jamie Emhoff and David Gottesfeld Fred Endelman Michelle Ender and Aaron Blumenthal Mr. Gary and Mrs. Julie Engel Shelley English Amber and Daniel Entenberg Cynthia Epstein Sam Eskenazi Rochelle and Maks Etingin Michel Evanusa Martha Faibisoff Leslie Falk and Zachary Treuhaft Christopher and Kai Falkenberg Eloise Falleder Jonathan and Shirley Feder Phyllis and Samuel Feder
We strive to have the most accurate data. If you feel there is an inaccuracy on this page please contact Jennifer Rubenstein, jrubesntein@bj.org.
Advancing BJ
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Thank You, Donors Alex Federman and Tamar Kotz Jeffrey and Michelle Feig Susan Fein Michael Feinberg Howard and Nancy Feinglass Amy Feldman Gabriel Feldman Aliza Felix Sharyn Feller Harris and David Harris Carl and Judith Felsenfeld Stephanie Finder Susan Fine and Arnon Mishkin Robert Elting and Rachel Fink Joseph and Patricia Finkelstein Alan and Laraine Fischer Rae-Ann Fischer Donald Fishbein Franklin Davidson and Carol Fishberg Alice and Jon Fisher Lynda Fisher Ted Fisher Monica Fishman and David Iankelevich Elissa and Howard Fishman Susan Fishman David Fitterman Daniel and Fern Flamberg Joy Fleisig Lydia Forster-Brock James Fraiman and Sarah Friedman Alan and Mimi Frank Susan Frankel Tobie Franklin Deborah and Lawrence Fraser Laurence and Natanya Freed Michael Freed Helen Freidus Earl Freiman Paul Freireich Noel Freudberg Anne and Adam Fried Lauren Friedland Rochelle Friedlich Barbara and Joseph Friedman Deborah Friedman Hillel and Betsy Friedman Lenore Friedman Marian Faytell Friedman and Joel Friedman Lara Friedrich and Benjamin Milder Jane Fuchsberg Jonathan Fulop Natalie Furman Yosefa Galchen
Paula Galowitz Christina and Michael Gantcher Hope and Victor Gany Kay Gardiner Alan Garten David Gass Samantha Gass Shana Lebowitz and Aaron Gaynor Peter Geffen and Susie Kessler Deborah and Theodore Geiger Michael Geller and Antonio Pagliarulo Judy Geller-Marlowe and Glenn Marlowe Carol Gelles Jerrold and Barbara Gendler Madeleine George and Lisa Kron Michael Gerber Anne Germanacos Linda Gerstein Mark and Valerie Gerstein Sian Gibby Lawrence Gifford Jody Gilman Edna Ginsberg Noah and Shantal Ginsberg Sara Ginsberg Martha Ginsberg Rosenfeld Barry and Merle Ginsburg Judy Gitenstein Edward and Amie Gitlin Diane Glass Arthur Rubin and Barbara Glassman Edna Golandsky Anita Golbey and Lee Adlerstein David Gold Janet Gold Joe and Karyn Gold Ann and Sam Goldberg Rina Goldberg Susan Goldberg Jeffrey and Laurie Goldberger Deanne and Michael Golden George and Sharon Golden Laura Goldenberg and Howard Seibel Robert Goldenberg Kimberly Goldenberg Brooks and Peter Brooks Sarah Goldenstein Lisa Goldfarb and George Burns Jerry Goldfeder and Alice Yaker Cynthia and Laurence Golding Diane Goldkopf Alvin and Phyllis Goldman
Ilana Goldman and Jordan Goldstein Rebecca and Robert Goldman Ricki Goldman Shoshana Goldman Allen Bromberger and Lauren Goldstein Bess and Greg Goldstein Frederic Goldstein and Phyllis Lefton Jacklyn Goldstein Joan and Steven Goldstein Merle Goldstein Traci Goldstein Dorothy Goldstick Jennifer Golub Naomi Goodhart Morris Goodman Susan Goodman Lola Goodstein Robin Goodstein Harriet Goren Karen Gorstayn Arthur and Irma Gottesfeld Deborah and Ivan Gottesfeld Matthew Gottesfeld Sally Gottesman Jacqueline Gotthold and Brian Watkins Joyce Gottlieb Marsha and Paul Gourvitz Laurie Graff Natalie and Arthur Grand Ariel and Adam Granoff Bennett and Marcy Grau Amanda Greenawalt Deborah Greenberg Steven Morey Greenberg Miriam Greenberger Jillian Greene Barbara Greenspan Mercedes Gregoire Michelle and Paul Grobman Scott and Susan Grodnick Jane Gronau and Zvi Rozen Helen Gross Philip and Sharon Gross Marcia Grossman and Steven Fialkoff Seth and Jared Grossman Eric Grossman Connie Gruber Robert Gruenspecht Pamela Grutman Achsah Guibbory and Tony Kaufman Beverly and Joe Guilyard Irene Guiter Mazer and Greg Worley
We strive to have the most accurate data. If you feel there is an inaccuracy on this page please contact Jennifer Rubenstein, jrubesntein@bj.org.
Advancing BJ
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Thank You, Donors Sharon Guten Ariella Gutin Michael and Gloria Gutkin Amy and Ronald Guttman Ellen and Frank Hagelberg Avery Halfon Jay and Marci Halfon Meryl Halfon Lisa Halprin Fleisher and Arthur Fleisher Jeremy Hamburgh and Lisa Markman Dora and Noah Hanft Seapora Harlem Lisa Goldstein and Igal Harmelin Moria Barbara Harmon Caroline Harris and Howard Goldman Ellen Harris Shelley and Susanne Harrison Helaine Harte and David Rhode Bonnie Harwayne Rise Dimson and John Hatleberg Ruth Havazelet Brandon Hedvat Lauren Hedvat Shannon Hedvat Jennifer Heettner Adam Howard Elaine Heffner John and Silvia Heller Paul Heller and Ruth Acker Deborah hendell shimko Scott and Lauren Henkin Anne Herlick and William Wiener Miriam and Samuel herscher Claire Hertz Rachel Goldfine and Mark Highman Lauren Friedman and Jack Himmelstein Ellen Hirsch Gerald Hirsch John Santelli and Jennifer Hirsch Debra Hirshman Marcia Hochman and Joel Mitnick Seth Hochman and Cindy Horowitz Aaron Hochman-Zimmerman Douglas Hochstadt and Katherine Moss Amanda and Jake Hofman Frima Fox Hofrichter Lee and Rebecca Hofrichter Alison and Joshua Holden Janice Honig Nina Horak Leslie and Moshe Horn Mark Horn
Alison and Jeffrey Horowitz Janice Horowitz and Richard Bookstaber Cynthia and Philip Hosay Elaine Housman Yariv Houvras and Judy Greene Sofia Hubscher and Adam Wallach Joanne Hubschman Leslie Hyman Susan Hyman Tamara and Gerard Igel Betsy Imershein Margie and Robert Imershein Marc and Pamela Intrater Jane Isay Dorian Goldman and Marvin Israelow Benjamin and Hannah Jack Betty Jane Jacobs and Alfred Litman Jonathan Jacobs Howard Jacobson and Kathryn Wolfson Judith and Leon Jacobson Michelle and Leonard Jacoby Seth and Rebecca Jacoby Suzanne Jacoby Sarah Jaffe and Richard Eisert Moira Jaffe-Solomon and Steven Solomon Joan Jankell Rae and Richard Janvey Nathana Josephs Les and Pamela Judd Marlene Jurman Nicole Kabalkin and Jeremy Ader Nancy Kahn and Emanuel Friedman Vicky Kahn and Philippe Lambert Lana Kalickstein and Steven Friedman Richard and Rosemary Kalikow Richard Katz and Debra Kalmuss Hannah and Jonathan Kamran Myron Kandel Barbara Kane Edward Kane Laurie Kane and Andrew Brisman Robert D. Kanter Cara Kantrowitz David Karnovsky and Sue Kaplan Frimette and Robert Kaplan George Kaplan Joan Kaplan Joseph Kaplan and Catherine Kim Marcia Kaplan Marjorie Kaplan Jane Karsh and Emily Wallach Jared Karson
Remy Kass Linda Kates Elliot and Kim Katz Ilene Katz Jan and Harry Katz David Katzenstein and Sherrie Nickol Nicole and Ken Katzman Jerome Kauff Clarita Kaufman Marina and Stephen Kaufman Nancy K Kaufman Suzanne Kaufman Earle Kazis Joel Kazis and Sara Nathan Michael Becker and Carmen Keels Jeffrey and Shelley Kehl Shona Keir Carol Keller Florence Keller Ronald Keller Beth and Jonathan Kern Julie and Franklin Kern Melanie Kern Robin Kerner Dede and Stephen Kessler Adi Kidon and Naomi Kleinberg Lisa Kiell and James Stone Richard Kilberg and Barbara Margolis Faye Kilsten Stephen and Susan Kippur Madelyne Kirch Ellen Kirschner Lowell and Deborah Kirschner Alexander and Hindy Kisch Emilie and Herbert Klagsbrun George and Enid Klas Ellen Klass Elizabeth Klein Harriet and Jeff Klein Louis and Elana Klein Martin and Mrs. Marcia Klein Rachel and Mark Klein Robert and Elaine Klein Roger and Sonja Klein Samantha Klein Sophie Klein Mark Kleinberg Joyce Klestzick Mitchell Kline Nancy Kline Scott Klion Juliette and Alan Klipper
We strive to have the most accurate data. If you feel there is an inaccuracy on this page please contact Jennifer Rubenstein, jrubesntein@bj.org.
Advancing BJ
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Thank You, Donors Adam Klotz and Kori Darling Lotte Knoller Willard Knox Alisa Koch Ruth Kogan and John Hiser Anne Kohn and Charles Gold Sherry Kohn Nancy Kopans Lynette and Steven Koppel Amelia Korn Lorraine Korn Nathan and Patricia Kornfeld Lisa Glass Kornstein and Martin Kornstein Miriam and Jonathan Kose Melissa Kraft and Kenneth Miller Elizabeth and Ruben Kraiem Renee Kraiem Martha Kransdorf Jerome Kraus Marvin Krislov Arthur Kroeber Nan Krotick Alyson Krueger Robert Krulwich Jenna Krumminga Katherine Kurs Alisa and Neil Kurshan Tony Kushner Cindy Lachow and Ira Ginsberg Bonnie and Brian Ladds Robert and Sara LaHayne Tobin Kovacs and Rachel Laiserin David and Mirian Landau David Landau Amy and David Landesberg Gail Landis Mark and Lindsay Landman Ellen Landsberger Belinda Lang Rebecca Lange Gary Langer and Catherine Rice Mary Lou and George Langnas Donald Goldberg Eli and Shayne Lazar Evan and Emma Lazar Michael Feldberg and Ruth Lazarus Sarah Lazin Michael and Marilyn Lebowitz Daniel Lebson and Thomas Wilinsky Jill and Martin Lebwohl Beverly Lee Jonathan Legum and Annette Zygmunt
Harold and Helen Lehrman Jason Horowitz and Carl Leibowitz Debra and Eric Lerner Eve Lettvin Greg Kubie and Rachel Levene Kubie Andrew Goffe and Jeffrey Levin Benjamin Levin Bernard Levin and Ronnie DuBrow Levin Brian and Sarah Levin Gary and Sara Levin James and Shira Levin Jessica Hale and Ted Levin Judith Levin and Jeffrey Schultz Linda Donald and Nathan Levin Marvin Levin Alison Levine and Owen Minde Elizabeth and Richard Levine Geri and Shari Levine Naomi Levine Rebecca Levine Sara Levine and Philip Friedman Trudi Levine Joan Levinson Karen Levinson and Daniel Engelstein Jonathan Canter and Tajlei Levis Andrew Levy and Tovah Feldshuh-Levy Cindy Levy Judith Bass and Jack Levy Laurence and Stephanie Levy Lorraine Gallard and Richard Levy Rachel Levy Esther Levy-Symonds Mindy Lewis Richard Lieberman and Susan Farkas Ricki Lieberman Susan Lieberman Wendy-Sue Liebmann and David Pinto Sherwin Liff Robert Linderman and Ida Granowitz Wendy Linderman Lilli Link and Jay Rosenberg Suzanne Lipkin and Richard Exelbert Evelyn Gruss Lipper and William Speck Mindy Lipson Lisa Pachtman-Schlesinger and Mark Lipsy Gary Lipton Judith Lipton Adena Greenberg and Shlomo Liran Debby and Michael Lissaur Andrew and Sara Litt Richard and Barbara Litt Karel Littman
Noah Blitzer and Jordan Longert Blitzer Jonathan Lopatin and Brenda Berry Galit Lopatin Bordereau and Samuel Bordereau Judith and Jules Love Israel and Julie Lowy Miriam Lox Joshua and Rachael Lubarsky David and Ruth Luft Dorothy and Harvey Luft Carole Lurie Brian and Rachel Lustbader Marc Luxemburg Lisa Machlin Melanie Katzman and Russel Makowsky Enrique and Lucia Malamud Allan Malz Evan Mandel Barbara Manocherian Cynthia and Jeffrey Manocherian Jed and Yael Manocherian Alan and Jessica Mantel Jessica Gallagher and Jack David Marcus Stacy Marcus Dova Marder and Stephen Friedgood Robert Marder and Hannah Meadows Julie and Alexander Margolies Malka Margolies and Walter Scott Susan Margolis Ayelet Cohen and Marc Margolius Hannah Margulies Steven Margulis and Sherida Paulsen Carrie and Joel Marlin Charles and Marilyn Marsden Linda and Robert Marshall Silvia Marx Terry Marx and Stephen Arpadi Sheri Mason Susan Mason Marian Mass and Mark Kurlansky J. Rolando Matalon and Talia Hatzor Louise Matisoff Howard Matz Barry May and Jessica Sepke Hillary Mayers Linda Mayers Gustavo Bruckner and Bena Medjuck-Bruckner Lisa Mednick Owen and Steve Owen Barbara Mehlsack Ina Lea Meibach and Judith Meibach
We strive to have the most accurate data. If you feel there is an inaccuracy on this page please contact Jennifer Rubenstein, jrubesntein@bj.org.
Advancing BJ
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Thank You, Donors Gabriel and Mariela Melamed Ellen Melaver and Michael Wolfson Audrey Melkin Renee Melzer Phyllis Mentle Julie Meridy and Richard Karz Seth Merrin Sharon Messitte Ellen Metzger and Marvin Lange Robin Fleischner and Theodore Metzger Anita Meyer Steve Heim and Dodi Meyer Emily Meyer Naomi Meyer Marti Meyerson and Jamie Hooper Janice Michaelson Maia and Nancy Michaelson Rifka Milder and Arnold Brooks Brina Milikowsky Nathan and Rebecca Milikowsky Edward Miller and Bena Green Naomi Miller Susan Miller and Jonathan Memmert Anne Millman and Allen Rokach Lorrie and Bruce Millman Sam Millner Anne Mintz Alexander Mishkin and Jennifer Newstead Robert Kuhnreich and Rhonda Mitron-Kuhnreich Brian and Kimberley Model David and Maria Molton Hannah Mond Eliza Montgomery and Ethan Goldwasser Brianna Morgan Jane and Joshua Moritz Martin and Andrea Mosbacher Carol Moses Julia Moskin and Darren Kapelus Jacob and Paula Moskowitz Bari Moss and David Slavin Daniel and Sandra Moss Peggy Moss Marshall Lux and Karen Moss-Lux Michael Mostow and Nancy Beal Mostow Gerrie Nachman Michal and Avi Nachmany Laurie Basch and Alexander Nacht John Motulsky and Wendy Nacht Eugene and Ilene Nadel Donna Nadler and Robert Gould Jerrold Nadler and Josephine Miller
Alexander and Alice Nakhimovsky Kristen Luciani and Saul Nathan-Kazis Alan Astrow and Jill Nathanson Susan and Edward Nayor Marcia Needleman Dennis Neier and Marisha Krupkin Leslie Nelson and Jill Hayman Jillian and Lawrence Neubauer Amos and Andrea Neufeld Madeleine Neufeld Richard Neugebauer Jeffrey Neuman and Cynthia Wachtell Ron Neuman Andrea Newman Harvey Newman Sallie Newman Ruben Niesvizky and Tanya Niesvizky-Kogan Tanya Niesvizky-Kogan Arthur and June Nislick Lisa and Benjamin Nivin Bonnie Nolan-Schwartz Stanley Frankel and Dana Norris Laura Nowak Abra Nowitz James and Laurie Oestreich Stephen and Susan Olderman Marjorie Olster and Rachid Elbourki Menachem Katz and Elana Opher-Iosifescu Andrew Orenstein Sonia Orenstein Nadine Orloff Rosalie Osian and John Giamundo Estelle Osofsky-McGonigle and Raymond McGonigle Sheldon Ostro Rochelle Ostroff-Weinberg Robert Owens and Eve Klein Mark Ozer and Ava Huang Michael and Diane Palmer Marcey and Stanley Pantowich David and Erica Panush Mimi Pardes Abby Park Rachel and Seth Park Sara Pasternak Levine and Mathew Levine Cheryl and Mitchell Patt Eileen Patt and JC O’Brien Laurie and David Pauker Jaimee Pearl Mark and Jennifer Pearlman Nora Pearlman Leslie and Alan Pearson
Jennifer Peck Judith Peck Kate and Bradford Peck Joshua and Julie Penzner Alison Pepper Kathleen Peratis Ellen Perecman Stewart Gross and Lois Perelson-Gross Ilisse Perlmutter David Dosamantes and Ellen Perlstein Miriam Perrin Michael Pertain Barbara Petratos Shahpar Nili and Elmer Phelon Melissa and Daniel Pianko Laurel Kallen and Michael Piazza Alan Pickman and Jan Gura Claudio and Penny Pincus Nancy Bravman and Mitchell Pines Benjamin Piven Judith Plaskow and Martha Ackelsberg Lilli Platt Charlotte Behrendt and Bernard Plum Letty and Bertrand Pogrebin Maria Paula Carvajal and Hilel Pohulanik Diana Polak Mark Lehrman and Marya Pollack Robert and Amy Pollack Deborah Brown and Jefrey Pollock Deborah Beim and Michael Pomeranz David and Vivian Port Pearl Port Walter Porto Gutierrez and Andres de la Pena Garcia Larry Hirschhorn and Melissa Posen Sharri Posen Charles and Nancy Posternak Constance and Maurice Povich Lynn Povich and Stephen Shepard James Posner and Jill Prosky Leslie Prosterman Margaret Puddington Avi Raber Steven Raber and Lynne Rosenthal Judith Rabinor Eve and Samuel Raboy Judy and Bernard Rachelle Laurence Bromberg and Renee Rachelle Paula Rackoff Jessica Radin Karen Radkowsky Irma and Robert Radus
We strive to have the most accurate data. If you feel there is an inaccuracy on this page please contact Jennifer Rubenstein, jrubesntein@bj.org.
Advancing BJ
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Thank You, Donors Elenor Radzivilover Karen Rait and Michael Greene Israeli Ran Joseph and Bonnie Rapaport Penelope Raphaely Rachel and Matthew Rapisarda David and Deborah Rasiel Julie Ratner Michael Gansl and Gladys Reich-Gansl Joan Hochman and Christopher Reid Robin Reif Susan Reimer-Torn and Edmond Torn Jonathan and Marion Reiss Brett Kalikow and Bri Reitano Fretta Reitzes Susan Resnick Gail Ressler Aviv Reuven Vicki Been and Richard Revesz Nancy Greenblatt and Jack Richard Ilene Richman Alan and Sharon Richter Nathan Riemer and Lisa Gaetjens Vitina Biondo and Yosef Riemer Lee and Cathy Rimsky Samuel and Evelyn Rittenberg Daniel Katz and Jennifer Ritter Jolie Roberts and Warren Rubin Sandra Rocks and Robert Mendelson Jan and Martina Roda Fernando Rodas Anthony Romeo and Nancy Ivers Romeo David Romeo Lois Rooks Sidney and Linda Rosdeitcher Esta Rose Jared Rosen and Corinne Roller Myrna and Herman Rosen Judith Rosenbaum Thane Rosenbaum Bernice Leber and David Rosenberg Craig Rosenberg Steven Rosenberg and Linli Yan-Rosenberg Todd Rosenbluth Raquel Rosenfeld Rita Rosenkranz Adam Arenson and Rebecca Rosenthal Cindy Rosenthal Louis Geser and Ilene Rosenthal Lillie Rosenthal and Eric Rosenthal Mark Broomfield and Sarah Rosenthal Ruth Jarmul and Irvin Rosenthal
Susan Rosenthal and Larry Grosberg Jonathan and Lilli Roth Ronald Roth Sarah Roth Miriam Rothenberg Daniel and Nadine Rothman Jerry and Sheila Rothman Danyel Harlem-Siegel and David Rothstadt Deborah Rovner and Aaron Cornwell Wendy Rowinsky Marjorie Rozman Lenore Ruben Arlene Rubenstein Barry Berson and Roni Rubenstein Jennifer Rubenstein Aaron and Susan Rubin Loren Gesinsky and Judith Rubin Lori Rubinson Max Rudin and Amy Schatz Merrill Rudin and Michael Katz Amy and Charles Rudnick Ellen Rudolph Felicia Rudolph Jerry Rumain Scott and Ilana Ruskay-Kidd Amanda Levy and Joel Ryzowy Olga Ryzowy Galit and Abraham Sacajiu Merryl Sack Klein and Ralph Klein Robin Sacknoff Judith and Robert Safran Rae-Carole Fischer and Joseph Saltiel Gary Cohen and Karen Saltser Cohen Susan Salwen David and Barbara Salz Joanna Samuels and Jeremy Hockenstein Paul Samuels and Nurit Margulies Robin Sanders and Guenther Krumminga Susan Sanders Bruce Echtenkamp and Pamela Sandler Dennis Sandler Victoria Sanger Maura Santini David Fineman and Joy Sardinsky Juliusz and Ardith Sas Wendy Sax Larry Bolder and Rabbi Eva Sax-Bolder Karen and S. Andrew Schaffer Lee and Lisa Schalop Susan Bodnar and David Schatsky Amy Cohen and Gary Schatsky Marshall Glesby and Gail Schattner
Ellen Schecter Suzanne Schecter and Todd Ruback Dana Scher Andrea Feirstein and Frank Schiff Eric Schlagman Debra Fine and Martin Schneider Elizabeth Schneider Ronald Schneider Eric Schneiderman Holly Schneier Rebecca Schofield-Cohen and Adam Cohen Victoria Schonfeld Amy and Jacob Schrader Peninnah Schram Ellen Schranz Dava Schub Sharon Schuster and Richard Blinkoff Lester Schwalb and Peggy Samuels Andrea Schwartz Betsy and Bart Schwartz David and Julie Schwartz Jonathan and Oriyan Schwartz Lucy Chudson and William Schwartz Marilyn Schwartz Renee Schwartz Ingrid and Maurice Schwartzberg Justin Schwarz and Laura Kleger Raymond and Glenda Schwarz Jonathan Schwebel and Greta Gilbertson Sheila Schwid Barbara Schwimmer Cecily and Joshua Schwimmer Daniela Sciaky and Reed Corderman Daniel Galron and Clair Seager-Galron Aaron Segal William Segal Lois Segel Harriet Seiler Bonnie and Carl Seligson Scott Kleinman and Linda Senat Marie Sevy Isaac Finkle and Kim Shafer Richard Shane Lois Rappaport and Raymond Shanfeld Christopher Grymes and Rachel Shapiro Jessica Jenen and Mark Shapiro Leonard and Lois Sharzer Beth Brodsky and Amir Shaviv Carol and Dennis Shebairo Larry Koffler and Ruth Sheldon Carole Sher
We strive to have the most accurate data. If you feel there is an inaccuracy on this page please contact Jennifer Rubenstein, jrubesntein@bj.org.
Advancing BJ
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Thank You, Donors Joanne Palmer and Andrew Sherman Caitlin Sherman Martha Sherman Melanie Sherman and Marla Chafetz Phyllis Sherman Susan Sherman Vicky Shiefman Betsy and Richard Shuster Hillary Sieber and Adam Russman Judith and Jeffrey Siegel Naomi and Burton Siegel Joanne Siegmund Carol Silberfeld Allan Silberglait Ellen and Daniel Silver Gabrielle Silver and Jonathan Lewis Jonathan Silver and Orli Etingin Silver Leah Silver Phyllis Silver Theodore Silver and Shera Wise Silver Jill Silverman Leslie Brill and Philip Silverman Mary Rosenbaum and Robert Silverman Renee Silverman and Sebastian Zimmermann Shai and Robyn Silverman Susan Siminow Barbara Simon and Ezra Teitelbaum Charles Simon Michael and Sarah Simon Marilyn and Jim Simons Michael Simonson and Beth Lief Marcia Simpkins Nancy Simpkins Max Alper and Elena Simpser Amy Singer and Richard Einhorn Dov Fobar and Diana Rose Singer Lori Beth and Michael Singer Sara Kahn Singer and David Singer Jeffrey Singerman and Ruth Borchardt Daniel Schimmel and Niki Singh Laura Sirowitz and Michael Isenberg Phil Richter and Julie Sissman Steven Sklar and Amy Wallace Michael Sklar and Karen Kertesz-Sklar Rita Sklar Nanette Slansky Hannah Bayer and Stuart Slavin Ellen Small David Smiley and Lauren Kogod Carol and Irving Smokler Avi Smolen and Justin Rosen Smolen
Jennifer Langnas and Joe Snodgrass Lisa and Richard Sobelsohn Jason Marlow and Ariella Soffer Marlow Sarah Soffes and Jonathan Goldberg Joel and Sandra Soffin Felicia Sol Richard and Roberta Sol Bruce and Audrey Soloff David Solomon Michael Sonnenfeldt and Katja Goldman Reggy Sonsino Karen Soren and Richard Pena Laura Speyer and Josef Goodman Danielle Spiegelfeld and Jonathan Feld Mitchell and Sara Spinnell Andrea and Jeff Spiritos Janet and Gilbert Spitzer Howard and Judith Spivak Stuart Spivak Mychal Springer and Jonathan Rosen Helen and Robert Stark Alice Berkowitz and Jeremy Starr Amy Bennett-Staub and Arthur Staub Howard and Miriam Steele Elliot Steelman Renata Stein Sharon Stein Chelsea Steinberg-Gay and Chris Gay Judy and Michael Steinhardt Anne Frank-Shapiro and Jason Steinthal Catherine Stephenson Alexandra and David Stern Carl and Miriam Stern Jack and Judith Stern Jacqueline Stern Jeff and Karen Stern Marjorie Stern Richard and Zulma Stern Samara Stern Paul Klausner and April Stewart Klausner Dvorah Stoll Suzanne and Rob Stone Michael Strassfeld and Joy Levitt Richard and Joanna Strassman James Stulman Stephen Stulman Toni Siegel Alva Stux Ivan and Stefan Stux Barbara and Leonard Sugin Linda Sugin and Anthony Calnek Janet Sullivan
Lori Sumberg David Ross and Stephanie Susens Herbert Fischer and Karen Sussan Ellyn Rabinowitz and Richard Sussman Bill Swersey and Galia Baigina Jennifer Sylvor and Steven Greenberg Marvin Szneler Ronald Taffel and Stacey Merel Catherine and Henri Talerman Paul and Danielle Taubman Alexandra Tawfik Deborah Kazis and Gideon Taylor Nahum Precel and Rivka Tenenbaum-Precel Nancy Tepper Linda Thal Sheldon Taback and Susan Thal Ziva Thorne Henry Tischler Marjorie Tiven Rachel and Seth Tiven Bernice Todres Stephen Dicker and Nilda Torres Dicker Karina Totah and Gregory Bilazarian Elzbieta Tracewicz Renie Rutchick and Judith Trachtenberg Tammy Tuller and Rick Wien Robin Tunick Lauren and Warren Turk Charlotte Turner Gail Tuzman Dorothy and Lawrence Tydings Kara Unterberg Renee and Vincent Vaccaro Stephanie Green and Zeke Vanderhoek Richard Fields and Marjorie Vandow Michael Littenberg-Brown and Andrea Varadi Stephen and Dorothy Vatner Amy Veltman and Daniel Knoepflmacher Leslie Verter Aaron and Aly Viny Sylvia Vogelman Anne Landsman and James Wagman Shary Wagreich Elain and Barry Waldman Gay Walley Marian Warden Howard Perlman and Phyllis Cosley Hirsch Rhonda and Judith Warren Carolyn Meyer Wartels and Gary Wartels Judith and Lee Wasserman Leonard Wasserman
We strive to have the most accurate data. If you feel there is an inaccuracy on this page please contact Jennifer Rubenstein, jrubesntein@bj.org.
Advancing BJ
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Thank You, Donors Linda Wax Fisher Jay and Gayle Waxenberg Eliza and Jon Weber Joel Weber Colin Weil Elana Weinberg Judith and Martin Weinberg Mimi Weinberg Hadassah Weiner Scott Weiner and Beth Siegel Stephanie Weiner and Lawrence Geismar Dahlia and Paul Weinger Emily and Jacob Weinig Beth Weinshank Donna Weinstein Joyce Weinstein Rhonda Shafner and Eric Weisberg David and Estare Weiser Eileen Weiss Emily Weiss Jeff and Paula Weiss Jodi Weiss Krystalla Pearce Lawrence and Rachel Weiss Richard Joselit and Jenna Weissman Joselit Mark and Diane Weisstuch Irving Weitzman and Marlene Halpern Lenore Weitzman
Kate Wenner and Gil Eisner Elizabeth and Inez West Joan Westreich Douglas Waite and Karen Wexler Janine and Jonathan Whiteson Jack Widman and Ruth Feldman Marian Williams Marilyn Williams Barbara and Robert Willinger Peter and Sharon Wilner Gary Nestler and Anna Winderbaum Michael and Rae Winderbaum Lisa Kassel and Mitchell Winter Paula Wisnik Lorraine Wohl Harriet Wolf Lisa Wolfe John Wolff and Nancy Eppler-Wolff Ronda Small and Ira Wolfman Susan Wolfson Mandy Wolkoff and Andrew Friedman Julian Wolpert and Rebekah Narli Dale Kalikow Yacker and Brett Yacker Wade Yacker Weslee Yacker Eliyahu Yahav and Rita Pereymer Daniel Lifton and Mayumi Yamada-Lifton Elyse and Robert Yedid
Michael Yoeli and Susan Etra Karen and Robert Youdelman Holly Zabitz Susan and Walter Zabriskie David Zack Frances Zak and David Cohen Sharon Zane William Zangwill Madeline Zawel Meryl Zegarek Deborah Zeigler Judy Roth and Stephen Zeldes Cheri Zeldis and Michael Kolber Joel Cohen and Karyn Zieve Anne Ziff Nina Zimmerman Regina Zimmerman-Mosesson Peter Zimroth and Estelle Parsons Susan Zinder Susan Zohn Barbara and Benjamin Zucker Daniel and Lisa Zucker Julie Zuckerbraun Andrew and Heather Zuckerman Martin Zuckerman and Susan Green Gordon Mehler and Ariel Zwang Carol Zwick
Social Justice and Activism, continued from page 16
BJ Launches Race and Us, a New Year-Long Initiative Vicki Abrams Having become very active at the Manhattan JCC as the chair of the Joseph Stern Center for Social Responsibility Advisory Council, I am passionate about helping communities make commitments to social justice. In this work, I have begun to
explore issues of racism at both the personal level and at community and national levels. I have tried to understand the ways in which our society has inculcated racist attitudes into its fabric, in ways obvious and hidden. I believe that BJ’s deeply held Jewish values lend an important underpinning to such
explorations and will help to lead us to initiatives that will have an impact on us as individuals, helping our community grow to ever increasing openness and inclusivity and to a place of deep respect for every individual.
We strive to have the most accurate data. If you feel there is an inaccuracy on this page please contact Jennifer Rubenstein, jrubesntein@bj.org.