Snh summer 2014

snh

published by the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven

non-profit org.

U.S. postage paid permit #2134 New Haven, CT

SHALOM NEW HAVEN

summer 2014 / iyar-elul 5774

Wexner Program Swim to Support the Marcia & Stanley F. Reiter Swimming Pool Taps Five from New Haven The Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven, in partnership with the Wexner Heritage Program, are co-investing in bringing the nationally acclaimed leadership development program to the Connecticut River Valley area beginning Fall 2014. Designed for a select group of 20 laypeople from New Haven, Hartford and Springfield/Longmeadow, five candidates were chosen who have demonstrated a track record of leadership and commitment to the Jewish community.

“I am very pleased to congratulate Lauren Hass, Meir Holtzberg, Scott Hurwitz, Dena Schulman-Green, and Dr. Sharon Hasbani, on their selection,” said Don Hendel, President of the Federation. “They reflect our commitment to building leadership and capacity in local institutions. This is our future and we are proud to be funding this endeavor with this acclaimed leadership program. This is our investment in a strong future” Hendel indicated that the competitive selection process of shared experiences, interviews and written essays has resulted in a cohort that has the ability to shape a vision of Jewish life and communal responsibility.

The Wexner Foundation was created in 1985 by Leslie Wexner, chair and CEO of Limited Brands. New Haven participated in the prestigious two-year program once previously along with 30 other communities throughout North America.

Among the 1,800 alumni who have participated, many have gone on to become top leaders in their communities.

Schulman-Green, Holtzberg and Hasbani are active members of the Federation Board. Hass is very involved at Ezra Academy and Congregation B’nai Jacob, and Hurwitz sits on the Board of the JCC and the Jewish Foubdation of Greater New Haven.

Fifteen people were originally nominated by Federation, communal agencies and synagogues for this singular honor. According to Rabbi Jay Moses, who leads the program, the New Haven candidates were extremely strong and only the few slots that the community was allotted militated against all of the nominees being included.

Sydney A. Perry, CEO of the Federation, added her own congratulations. “Yasher Koach to Dena, Lauren, Meir, Scott, and Sharon. They have the extraordinary opportunity to study with a distinguished faculty of professors, rabbis, professionals, and civic leaders along Wexner continued on page 3...

Swimmers can participate in a week-long swimming fundraising challenge starting Sunday, May 18.

The JCC kicks off a week-long swimming fundraising challenge on Sunday, May 18. All proceeds go toward upgrading the PoolPak – the mechanical system that controls the pool area environment (both air and water). Participants pay a $36 registration fee and agree to raise an additional $360 by asking ten friends and/or family members to each contribute $36.

This “36 PoolPak Challenge” accommo-

dates different levels of swimming ability, with a choice of swimming challenges.

On Sunday, May 18, participants in the “Crazy 100 Swim Challenge” will swim 36 x 100 yards or 48 x 100 yards. Sign up for specific times that day online at “36 PoolPak Challenge” on jccnh.org, at the JCC or Active.com. “2 Mile Pain Train” participants will complete two miles over the course of a week, from Sunday, May

18 to Saturday, May 24. Finally, there is the “18 Chai Challenge,” an 1,800 meter swim to be completed over the course of the week.

Not a swimmer? Support a swimmer or the swimming pool at jccng.org More information: Allan Greenberg (203) 387-2522 x252, allang@jccnh.org or Aquatics Director Amy Kemler (203) 387-2522 x270, amyk@jccnh.org.

Edge of the Woods Café to Open at JCC There are new beginnings following Passover at the JCC of Greater New Haven with the opening of the Edge of the Woods café at the JCC. The excitement is building. Owner Peter Dodge receives phone calls and questions every day: “When will you open?” “Who is supervising?” “What will you be serving?”

attractive to me were the people I was negotiating with. I remember I came in and Shelley [Gans, Director of the JCC,] gave me a hug. It felt natural, more like a family than an intense negotiation.”

Naturally, the JCC courted Edge of the Woods. The market has been a part of the Greater New Haven Jewish community since 1978. Even before it was Kosher, Dodge says a large part of the customer base was Jewish.

Originally, he started the market for the same reasons his customers shop there; when you are educated on the global food system and your own health, you seek out quality, organic, ethical products. The market has been Kosher since it moved to Whalley Avenue in 1985 at the behest of an employee.

Young Israel’s Rabbi Whitman supervised the market. Dodge and Kauffman concur that the market has been Kosher for so long that it has become part of the fabric of Edge of the Woods.

Peter Dodge (left), Owner of Edge of the Woods, and Alan Kauffman (right), Café Manager, beam from the newly constructed Living Room and the site of their new location at the JCC.

Dodge, Gans, and Bob Felice, President of the JCC, have a vision for the new café. They’ve already invested in the project with the construction of the new “Living Room.” Walls were removed and programs were revamped to bring a comfy, versatile, vibrant space for all ages. Dodge and Felice hope this organic energy breathes new life into the center and breeds success for the new café.

The cafe will be open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Sundays through Thursdays, close early on Fridays and will be closed on Saturdays.

Under the supervision of Vaad HaKashrus of Fairfield County, the menu is a sampling of what Edge of the Woods offers at their Whalley Avenue market, with the same ethical and healthy quality that customers expect.

Long range plans for Edge of the Woods depend on the success of this endeavor. Down the line, they plan to expand their warehouse at the Whalley Avenue location, giving them the option to further their reach in the community with food carts and other small cafes. However, Edge of the Woods will always be a family business – a family that now includes the JCC.

Meals are offered for every time of day and every type of customer. Freshly made vegetarian and gluten-free options are available as Grab-N-Go. Hot entrees, soups, and in-season fruit are available as well. Challah flies off the shelf every Friday and a Juice Bar caters to the fitness crowd. Alan Kauffman, Café Manager, says they are investing in the new location and has plans for future improvements.

Dodge was approached in the past to expand into the JCC, but the timing was never quite right. This time it was. “What was really

Stay tuned for details and a date for the opening.

Lunch n’ Learn with Gil Hoffman

May 4, 12 p.m. • JCC Living Room Gil Hoffman, chief political correspondent and analyst for The Jerusalem Post, in a round table discussion.

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a Please come and celebrate 100 years since the founding of our historic synagogue! To help mark this milestone we honor Mayor Toni Harp as a Partner in Urban Progress. Enjoy music, dinner, and wonderful company.

Gan Hayeled Early Childhood Center

save the date: Sunday, May 18, 2014 3:30 pm · Cocktails 4:30 pm · Honoring Mayor Toni Harp 5:30 pm · Dinner Come be a part of this truly historical event!

Visit www.orchardstreetshul.org for tickets.

Congregation Beth Israel The Orchard Street Shul 232 Orchard St, New Haven

b Please come and celebrate 100 years since the founding of our historic synagogue! To help mark this milestone we honor Mayor Toni Harp as a Partner in Urban Progress. Enjoy music, dinner, and wonderful company.

save the date: Sunday, May 18, 2014 3:30 pm · Cocktails 4:30 pm · Honoring Mayor Toni Harp 5:30 pm · Dinner Come be a part of this truly historical event!

Visit www.orchardstreetshul.org for tickets.

To mark the first day of spring this year, children at Gan Hayeled planted cucumber, summer squash, zucchini and eggplant seeds, and have been carefully watering them each day and recording their growth. The plants are doing really well and families and friends of Gan Hayeled and B’nai Jacob will help plant them in the B’nai Jacob vegetable garden during a festive communal event on the morning of Lag B’Omer, Sunday May 18. They will continue to nurture these plants until they are ready to be harvested and donated to the Downtown New Haven Soup Kitchen.

Gan Hayeled, a preschool for children ages 2-5 at Congregation B’nai Jacob, is offering extended hours starting this fall from 8am to 6pm, or part thereof.

Gan Hayeled Early Childhood Center, 75 Rimmon Rd., Woodbridge, CT 06525, (203) 389-2111 x214, cbj.ganhayeled1@gmail.com.

Congregation Beth Israel The Orchard Street Shul 232 Orchard St, New Haven

Published by the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven Donald S. Hendel - President Sydney A. Perry - Chief Executive Officer Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven, 360 Amity Road, Woodbridge, CT 06525 T: 203 387-2424, F: 203 387-1818, ShalomNH@jewishnewhaven.org / jewishnewhaven.org Editor: Jennifer Gelband. Editorial Committee: Shelley Gans, Hilary Goldberg, Ruth Gross, Stephanie Plude. Design: Debbie Stach. shalomnewhaven is delivered free of charge to every home on the Jewish Federation’s mailing list.

Add your name to the mailing list by contacting (203) 387-2424 x307 or ShalomNH@jewishnewhaven.org Advertisers: log on to jewishnewhaven.org and click on “Shalom New Haven” in the left navigation. SNH reserves the right to decline advertising that conflicts with the mission of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven or does not meet our design standards. Publication of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of kashrut. For more information, contact Helaine at (917) 769-8353 or helaineh@jewishnewhaven.org shalomnewhaven is printed on recycled paper with soy-based inks. Please recycle.

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Wexner continued from page 1

Message from

with their peers from our region. I know they will grow personally and gain a deeper understanding of our Jewish history and peoplehood. They enter the program with excellent interpersonal skills and prior community involvement. We look forward to being the recipients of their vision and dedication in the future of our Jewish community.

Sydney A. Perry Chief Executive Officer Dear Noah:

Jewish New Haven Welcomes Affinity Groups “One of the most effective Jewish ways of ‘doing together’ is to invite people to learn together.” -Relational Judaism by Dr. Ron Wolfson Maimonides Society (Healthcare Division) Named for Rabbi Moses Ben Maimon, better known as Maimonides, perhaps the most famous Jewish physician of all time, The Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven Maimonides Society is the place for physicians, dentists, and healthcare professionals – people dedicated to healing the sick and committed to the notion of tikkun olam (repairing the world.)

This dynamic group participates in a wide range of activities, including networking, socializing, educational opportunities, volunteerism and Jewish communal involvement. In addition, offers medical and health programs with Israeli professionals, speakers and philanthropic projects with Jewish and other communities around the world.

Cardozo Society (Attorney’s Division) Benjamin Cardozo, a Sephardic Jew, is

remembered for his influence on the development of American common law, made tenure on the New York Court of Appeals and has served on the Supreme Court. The Cardozo Attorney Division is recognized throughout the National Jewish Federations of North America.

Connect with individuals in the legal professions within the Greater New Haven Jewish community. Programs offer dynamic guest speakers, networking opportunities and involvement.

Join many legal professionals on June 24, with Linda Scherzer, former Mideast correspondent for CNN and Israel Television with extensive experience covering the Arab-Israeli conflict.

Scherzer covered the first Palestinian uprising or “intifada,” the Gulf War, and the Mideast peace process, and an interview with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu through a gas mask.

More information: Stacey Trachten, strachten@jewishnewhaven.org or (203) 387-2424 x 324.

I have anticipated this day for almost 10 years, since your parents made aliya to Israel from France. Perhaps I should have anticipated it more than 44 years ago when Pepere and I moved to Israel for two years with your mother and Aunt Sarah in the so-called glory days after the Six-Day War. The two little girls began to speak Hebrew, call us Ima and Abba, and learned songs Israeli children sing songs of the holidays and of love of the land of Israel. Now, as you prepare to be called up to the Israel Defense Forces and serve in the Navy, I am experiencing the mixed sentiments of love and awe, repressed fear and unabashed pride.

You are our first-born grandson. I hope your four siblings and twelve cousins will forgive me when I say you have always been special. We have watched you grow from a tender newborn into such a fine young man; we’ve marveled at your first words and have continued to be astounded by your prodigious love of language, mathematics, and especially of your sensitivity to the feelings of others. Ever since your bris in our backyard on a Shabbat 18 years ago, when your parents committed to raise you with “torah, bring you to the chupah and teach you good deeds,” you have brought us such joy and such blessing.

I think the reality truly hit your parents when your first draft notice arrived. I remember sitting at your Shabbat table and your father asked you if you would think about going into an intelligence unit. He thought that meant a desk job with you pouring over codes. You replied to him: “Abba, did you make aliya so I could be a jobnik?” He looked stricken. Now it becomes real. First you, then Caleb, then Ezra. Zionist Israeli parents have to face the terrible impending fear that you may have to fight, a terrible price to pay for living in such a “dangerous neighborhood.”

They must come to terms with the choice they made to live in the reborn Jewish state. And they experience the profound sense of gratitude that they are living in this extraordinary period of history as a sovereign people, with the ability to shape their own future.

After the Yom Kippur War, Yehoram Gaon wrote a beautiful song that never fails to make me weep. “I promise you, my little girl”, it goes, “that this should be the last war.” If it would only have been so. But, now shortly, you will be inducted in a swearing-in ceremony into the Israeli army and take a take an oath of allegiance to defend both the State of Israel and the Jewish people.

I am thankful in this the 66th year of Israeli independence that you will join the great amalgamation of immigrants who despite their cultural and ideological differences create a society of warmth, caring and spontaneity. You are part of an incredible, dynamic adventure. I am thankful that you are able to participate in the building of a Jewish homeland, a place in which Jewishness defines not merely the national identity of the majority of the population but also the ideas and values of the country. I am thankful that you will be a player in helping to shape a just, moral society of this old/young country.

And Noah, I am hopeful that you will be among those who will bring peace to this oft-besieged land. Israel is nothing short of a miracle in her 66 years. On Yom Ha’Atzmaut, Independence Day, it is a time to marvel at this modern day miracle: the creative spirit, energy and endurance. It is a vibrant, messy democracy and it falls upon you and your generation to make Israel into what the prophet called “a light unto the nations.”

My dear grandson, stay safe. Go forward and know that you are beloved by your parents, your siblings, your grandparents, Nana, aunts, uncles, cousins. May God bless you and protect you. May God deal kindly and graciously with you. May God bestow His favor on you and grant you peace. And watch over all Am Yisrael.

Love always, Savta

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Women’s Philanthropy Announces Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award Shirley Scholder will be honored at a special ceremony at the International Lion of Judah Conference on September 9 in New York City.

In 2004, National Women’s Philanthropy announced the establishment of the Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award in recognition of Norma Kipnis Wilson and Toby Friedland, founders of the Lion of Judah pin. Introduced in 1972 for the Miami Women’s Division campaign, under their leadership, the Lion of Judah pin has firmly established itself as a symbol of commitment to the worldwide Jewish community. This award recognizes extraordinary women who have set a high standard for philanthropy and volunteerism in their communities.

Scholder has contributed her energy and leadership to the Jewish commu-

New Americans are Achieving Goals

nity of New Haven for the past 56 years, since she became a member of the National Council of Jewish Women.

She has been active in many capacities and contributed by chairing the Jewish Federation’s Women’s Division.

She served on a number of boards including the Jewish Federation, the Jewish Foundation, Women of Vision, Congregation Mishkan Israel, and presently as Vice President of the Jill Fox Memorial Fund.

Scholder is a Ruby Lion and the funder of a Lion of Judah Endowment. She is a dedicated philanthropist, a staunch supporter of Israel and a leader committed to Jewish education. The Kipnis-Wilson/ Friedland Award will be presented to Scholder at the International Lion of Judah Conference in New York.

Federation’s Shoreline Office Launches New Arts & Writing Workshop Certified Expressive Arts Educator Amy Barry presents a Kabbalah-Inspired Expressive Art & Writing Workshop on Wednesday, May 7, 7-9 p.m. A modern interpretation of the ancient Hebrew letters of Kabbalah inspires creative exercises that help people explore the intuitive, imagistic right side of the brain, transforming negative thoughts and emotions into positive, life-affirming responses.

Registration and payment are required. The workshop fee is $25 for the two-hour session. Pastels and drawing paper are provided. Participants bring their own journal or notebook and writing utensil.

Register with Jill Lesage at (203) 738-0033 or jwlesage@jewishnewhaven.org. Contact Amy Barry with questions at (203) 488-8643 or aimwrite@snet.net.

Ellie and Dalia Medovnikov, Marina Milgram, and Yelena Gerovich perform a musical program at the JCC Neighborhood Music School recital in February.

About two centuries ago, the German poet, novelist and dramatist Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe said, “Energy is the basis of everything. Every Jew, no matter how insignificant, is engaged in some decisive and immediate pursuit of a goal.”

For many local Jews, that goal is building a home in the Greater New Haven area. The process of adaptation is difficult for most immigrants. Many of them require assistance, and the New American Acculturation Program (NAAP) offers many programs to help.

One of the goals is to help immigrants of all ages build self-confidence in the new environment.

The NAAP offers educational programs for seniors, women, children, and families, and organizes Jewish and American holiday celebrations, citizenship classes and educational workshops.

Despite the snowstorms and icy roads, all the NAAP winter programs and workshops were a great success this past winter. Book and movie club discussions were dedicated to the awardwinning Israeli movie Fill the Void. The JCC library is stocked with books in both English and Russian. This year, A Taste of Honey teach-in included a session in Russian called Jewish Composers From Bizet to Gershwin.

These programs make a big difference in the lives of immigrants from the former Soviet Union, even for those who

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came to the United States many years ago. They could not take place without the generous financial support of the State of Connecticut Department of Social Services, the Women of Vision Society, the Jewish Federation Association of Connecticut, and the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven. These organizations support programs for all groups of immigrants.

One of the NAAP’s contributions to the support of seniors and immigrants is computer and non-computer based lifelong learning for all groups of immigrants in spring and summer. For many seniors and computer novices, learning to use a computer is exciting, but also intimidating, and the NAAP assists them through it.

National Institute on Aging Director, Richard J. Hodes, M.D., says, “We should continue to pursue cognitive training as an intervention that might help maintain the mental abilities of older people so that they may remain independent and in the community.”

It is never too early or too late to learn about a shared history, culture, traditions, and innovations. The NAAP strongly believes that continuing education programs is very important for seniors.

For more information about the New American Acculturation Program, including sponsorships of specific programs: Yelena Gerovich (203) 387-2424 x321 or ygerovich@jewishnewhaven.org.

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Foundation Local Agencies Benefit from Youth Build-a-Tzedakah Funds The Jewish Foundation of Greater New Haven’s Build-a-Tzedakah Fund program engages young adults to create positive changes in the community through a life-long commitment to philanthropy. Young people who participate in this program set aside $600 of their Bar or Bat Mitzvah gift money to establish an endowment fund at the Jewish Foundation. An anonymous community donor provides a $400 match to each fund, giving each participant a $1,000 fund. Anyone can add to the fund, at any time, in honor of special occasions and in memory of loved ones. Young people in this program have the responsibility of researching and selecting charities that will receive interest distributions from their funds. Many agencies in our community have benefited from these funds from local

synagogues, schools, soup kitchens, and camps to causes like juvenile diabetes and environmental protection. When participants begin college, they can give the principle in full to their synagogue or charity of their choosing.

Bar and Bat Mitzvahs who participate receive a beautiful certificate designed by local artist, Jeanette Kuvin Oren, on the Bima on their special day.

The Jewish Foundation thanks and acknowledges the recent funds that have been established: Jacob Daniel Feuerstein Jenna Leigh Goldberg.

Frederick Forrest Isadore Miller Jacob Kingsley Perry.

More information: Jennifer Bayer, jbayer@jewishnewhaven.org or (203) 387-2424 x320.

Create a Jewish Legacy Embraces Tzedakah: Build a Strong Future for the Next Generation Throughout the history of the Jewish people, the religious mandate to repair the world has been a unique characteristic of our culture. Our children are taught to embrace the concept of tzedakah through the examples of their parents and grandparents, volunteering, giving and caring for those unable to care for themselves.

Thanks in part to the legacy of those who came before us, our community has had the human and financial resources to care for those in need, meet unexpected challenges and plan for the future. But ensuring that we will be able to do so in the future requires continued vision, commitment and a willingness to be part of a community.

The choices we make today will have an enormous impact on the ability of our Jewish community to thrive for generations to come. This is the time to ensure our collective Jewish future by building a strong, secure and permanent community endowment.

Doing so will allow more young people to experience Israel, Jewish summer camps and Jewish day schools – all of which are proven to significantly

increase the likelihood of a lifelong Jewish commitment. Our synagogues will continue to be inspiring spiritual homes, preserving our Jewish heritage and educating future generations.

Dignified and compassionate care for our seniors and those in our community with limited means will be assured. A legacy gift will make eternal your commitment to the people and the State of Israel.

Chances are you already support Jewish charitable organizations. You can make a difference for generations and express your values, honor your heritage and do something lasting and significant for the community by including those organizations in your estate plan. Through Create a Jewish Legacy New Haven, you can establish a legacy to enhance our Jewish future and perpetuate the values you cherish.

What is Create a Jewish Legacy New Haven?

Create a Jewish Legacy represents a shared commitment by area synagogues and Jewish organizations to work together to secure a more vibrant Jewish future. Create a Jewish

Legacy is sponsored and presented by the Jewish Foundation of Greater New Haven and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation of Western Massachusetts.

In the first eight months, Create a Jewish Legacy New Haven has secured $3.2 million in commitments for area synagogues and Jewish organizations.

With Create a Jewish Legacy, you have the ability to create a legacy gift which can benefit one or more organizations that are important to you. You can make a commitment, either through a current or future gift to a Jewish organization’s endowment fund or by declaring your intent to remember Jewish causes in your will or estate plans.

Your legacy gift of any size can be customized and structured to fit your dreams, lifestyle, family and financial needs. You can provide support for a particular or area of interest.

How Do I Get Involved?

All of us have the ability to make a difference for future generations.

The simplest method of creating your legacy is with a current gift of cash or

stock. If you cannot do that now, you can create your legacy through a will or estate plan, or by adding (or changing) a beneficiary designation with other assets, such as retirement funds and life insurance. You can create a Jewish legacy with a percentage of your estate or a dollar amount that’s comfortable for you. You can commit a cash gift now that goes directly into the endowment. Some gifts can be structured to increase your current income, and the residual will benefit your designated organizations.

Creating your Jewish legacy is simple.

Some options include: Bequest in a will; gift of life insurance; gift of IRA or retirement asset; gift of appreciated stock; charitable gift annuity or trust; or any combination of the above.

Together we can impact the future of the Jewish community and make a difference in the lives of the generations to come.

More information: Lisa Stanger, Director, (203) 387-2424 x382 or lstanger@jewishnewhaven.org.

Women of Vision Society Grants: Application Deadline is May 9 The Women of Vision Society 2014 grants process is underway and applications are due in the Jewish Foundation office no later than 4 p.m. on May 9, 2014.

The Women of Vision Society was created in 1996 in order to ensure that a permanent, restricted endowment fund would forever be available to enhance the quality of life for Jewish women and their families in Greater New Haven. Grants, usually awarded in the amount of $300 to $3,000, are awarded for Jewish women’s programming and have helped a wide variety of agencies in our community.

Since 1998, the Women of Vision Society has distributed more than $130,000 in grants for issues ranging from employment and literacy to acculturation and health issues.

To access information about the Women of Vision Society, the grant guidelines and the application, please visit newhavenjewishfoundation.org.

More information: Jennifer Bayer, jbayer@jewishnewhaven.org or (203) 387-2424 x320.

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AIPAC Summit

From left to right: Gerry Braffman, Reena Seltzer, Elaine Braffman, Stephanie Wain, Jesse Cedarbaum, Linda Cedarbaum, Senator Rosa DeLauro, Arthur Seltzer, Caryl Kligfeld, Michael Kligfeld, and DeLauro staffers.

The Art of Making Hamantaschen

State’s Commissioner of Education to Speak at JCL Volunteer Event The Jewish Coalition for Literacy will sation, and giving the child the opporhost their Volunteer Reading Partner tunity to express themselves to an interested adult. Volunteers Appreciation Breakfast and students enjoy readWednesday, May 21 at 9 ing and conversation with a.m. at the JCC, 360 Amity each other to form nurturRd. in Woodbridge. The free ing relationships. JCL is French toast breakfast, an award winning-project donated by Abel Catering, of the Jewish Community will feature guest speaker Relations Council of the Stefan Pryor, Commissioner Jewish Federation of of Education for the State Greater New Haven. of Connecticut. JCL’s readEducators from JCL’s seven ing partners are the cornerStefan Pryor partner New Haven public stone of the organization, and this event is just one way JCL shows schools and other local children’s literappreciation for their weekly commit- acy advocates are invited to attend the breakfast to honor JCL reading partners ment to their students. for donating their precious time and for With about 165 reading partners, the sharing their love of reading and learndiverse group spans different faiths, ing with students. educational backgrounds and experiences. Each volunteer commits one JCL’s programs are open to the community hour a week to read one-on-one with without charge. More information: Brenda assigned students, sharing the plea- Brenner, bbrenner@jewishnewhaven.org or sures of reading, learning and conver- (203) 387-2424x308.

JCL Visits Yale Center for British Art

On March 9, Tower One/Tower East presented Baking for Good – The Art of Making Hamantaschen, an event in cooperation with the JCC of Greater New Haven.

Representatives of the Towers board of directors, staff, committee members, and community volunteers mentored attendees in making hamantaschen cookies for Purim. The group made more than 1,000 cookies that were delivered to Jewish seniors throughout the Greater New Haven Area.

Towers Hosts Proclamation

Mayor Toni Harp (center) and Towers’ CEO Mark Garilli (right) meet with survivors and the Holocaust comittee from the Ggreater New Haven community.

On March 25, Tower One/Tower East hosted the annual signing of the Proclamation recognizing “Days of Remembrance” with New Haven Mayor Toni Harp. The Proclamation recognizes the week of April 21-27, 2014, in memory of the victims of the Holocaust and in hope that we will strive always to overcome prejudice and inhumanity through vigilance, education and resistance.

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Volunteer reading partners from JCL “read a picture” under the guidance of Joya Marks, a docent at the Yale Center for British Art. JCL reading partners are Mimi Glenn, Evie Krevolin, Geri Natkin, and Mary Beltramello.

Joya Marks, a docent at the Yale Center for British Art, distributed swatches of colored paper and asked who saw those colors in the painting. After which, she distributed various fabric pieces and asked where such textures in the painting were found. Jewish Coalition for Literacy (JCL) Reading Partners were invited to the YBAC by Linda Friedlaender, curator of education for the museum, to experience small intimate docent-led sessions like New Haven third graders, teachers, physicians and other medical professional, an exercise in learning to read a picture, identifying facts, not rushing to judgment and then putting the story together.

In this exercise, participants are asked to describe a painting in as much detail as possible. When a thorough visual inventory of the painting is completed, the group tries to interpret the narrative in the painting. All conclusions have to be grounded in visual material found

in the painting. In this way, “reading a painting” can bring art into the learning process and help children to think critically, to use language effectively and to transfer those enhanced skills to their reading and writing. In addition, the JCL reading partners learned several visual literacy techniques that will assist in the work they do weekly, one on one, with New Haven public school children, sharing the joy of reading and conversation, giving the child an opportunity to express their opinion and help them improve their vocabulary, helping repair the world, one child at a time.

Studies show that children that practice these visual literacy skills become more skilled writers and readers.

More information about helping the children and to attend JCL’s Annual Volunteer Appreciation Breakfast on May 21 at 9 a.m.: bbrenner@jewishnewhaven.org or (203) 387-2424 x 308.

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ADL Audit: Reported Anti-Semitic Incidents in Connecticut Increase in 2013, Decline Nationally The number of documented anti-Semitic incidents in Connecticut increased in 2013, according to the Anti-Defamation League’s (ADL) annual Audit of AntiSemitic Incidents. A total of 31 incidents were reported across Connecticut in 2013, which included 18 incidents of harassment, six incidents of vandalism and two incidents of physical assault.

ADL recorded seventeen anti-Semitic incidents in Connecticut in 2012, 43 in Connecticut in 2011 and 39 in 2010.

“We’re never happy to see an increase in anti-Semitic incidents here in Connecticut, but we’re careful not to read too much into the findings of any particular year,” said Gary Jones, Regional Director of ADL’s Connecticut office.

“The audit is not an exact science. We rely on law enforcement personnel and individuals from across the state to alert us to anti-Semitic incidents. We believe that the reduced numbers reported for 2012 were an aberration, and that our 2013 figures fall more in line with what we saw in 2010 and 2011.”

Some of the incidents reported in 2013 in Connecticut included: Fairfield County: • A Jewish student was accosted by several classmates, shoved into a bathtub, sprayed with body spray to simulate the gas chambers, and forced to pretend to “go to sleep.”

• A young Jewish student on a social media site, unaware of the meaning of a cross, asked a friend about the significance of her “t-necklace.” Another person replied, “Your a bitch the cross isn’t a T so take your Jewish ass somewhere else (sic).”

Hartford County: • A Holocaust survivor who had recently shared her story with school children received leaflets in the mail that denied the Holocaust.

• A restaurant manager stuck a post-it note with a drawing of a swastika on the water bottle of one of his waitresses.

During the same shift, he made himself a fake Hitler moustache and did a “heil Hitler” salute. He also made swastikas out of French fries on the plates served to customers.

New Haven County: • Graffiti was discovered in a university building that threatened arson to the college’s Center for Jewish Life.

• Approximately 30 gravestones were knocked over at a Jewish cemetery resulting in about $5,000 worth of damage.

“We must remember that there are people behind every one of these numbers, and every incident represents one person or an entire community affected by the trauma of anti-Semitism,” said Barry Curtiss-Lusher, ADL National Chair.

“Every swastika scrawled on a school or rally held by a racist group demands a response – by law enforcement, by the community and by public officials – to ensure that we reinforce the message that

anti-Semitism is unacceptable in society.”

The total number of reported anti-Semitic incidents in the United States fell by 19 percent in 2013, according to the ADL annual Audit of Anti-Semitic Incidents.

The ADL Audit reported a total of 751 anti-Semitic incidents last year, marking a significant decline from the 927 reported in 2012. Of the 751 incidents, 31 physical assaults on Jewish individuals, 315 incidents of vandalism and 405 cases of harassment, threats and events. The Audit includes both criminal and non-criminal incidents reported to ADL in 41 states and Washington, D.C. “We want to increase awareness that ADL tracks anti-Semitic incidents and to remind people that if they experience anti-Semitism themselves – or even if they are aware of incidents targeting others – to call us and report it,” Jones said.

Additionally, Jones said that one possible reason for the large statistical downward trend in anti-Semitic incidents across the country is the emergence of hate on the Internet. General anti-Jewish expressions on the Internet, while possibly playing a role in fomenting real-world anti-Semitism, are not counted for the purposes of the Audit unless they target a specific individual.

“The explosion of viral hate is impossible to quantify, but should not be ignored,” said Abraham H. Foxman, ADL National Director. “The Internet provides racists and bigots with an outlet to reach a potential audience of millions, and we suspect that it has also led many to take their opinions online rather than leafleting entire neighborhoods. So, that may have an impact on the Audit’s findings, which measure real-world incidents as opposed to viral hate, which is impossible to quantify given its proliferation on the Internet and on social media.”

The ADL Audit of Anti-Semitic Incidents has been conducted annually in the United States since 1979. More information on the 2013 Audit, including state-by-state numbers, an analysis of anti-Semitic numbers nationally and examples of incidents throughout the country, is available on ADL’s website at adl.org.

The Audit identifies both criminal and non-criminal acts of harassment and intimidation, including distribution of hate propaganda, threats and slurs.

Compiled using information provided by victims, law enforcement and community leaders and evaluated by ADL’s professional staff, the Audit provides an annual snapshot of one specific aspect of a nationwide problem while identifying possible trends or changes in the types of activity reported. This information assists ADL in developing and enhancing its programs to counter and prevent the spread of anti-Semitism and other forms of bigotry. The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is the world’s leading organization fighting anti-Semitism through programs and services that counteract hatred, prejudice and bigotry.

ADL to Honor Mark G. Sklarz and Carlton L. Highsmith at 2014 Greater New Haven Torch of Liberty Award Reception The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) will honor Carlton L. Highsmith and Mark G. Sklarz at their 2014 Greater New Haven Torch of Liberty Award Reception, at 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 13, at the JCC in Woodbridge. Additionally, Patricia M. Ferrick, Special Agent In Charge of the FBI New Haven Field Office, will officially present the ADL Connecticut Regional Office with the 2013 FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award at the reception.

The Torch of Liberty Award is presented annually to outstanding citizens and corporations whose extraordinary work has helped to strengthen the Greater New Haven community.

Carlton L. Highsmith is a corporate executive turned entrepreneur and founder of Mark G. Sklarz Specialized Packaging Group (SPG) in New Haven in 1983.

In 2009, after growing into a 600 employee company with 11 locations throughout North America, SPG merged with PaperWorks Industries to form SPG PaperWorks Inc., where Highsmith served as Vice Chairman of the Board until his retirement in 2010. He currently serves on the Board of Directors of First Niagara Bank and the Board of Directors of both the Connecticut Center for Arts and Technology and the National Center for Arts and Technology. He is the Vice Chair of Quinnipiac University’s Board of Trustees, a member of the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston’s New England Community Economic Advisory Council, Co-Chairman of the Career Advancement Committee of the Connecticut Employment and Training Commission, and a member of the Board of Visitors of the University of WisconsinMadison, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in economics. Highsmith lives in Middlebury with his wife, Leta. They have two daughters – Alexis Highsmith Smith,

married to Ken Smith, and Jennifer Highsmith, married to Larry Brooks – and one grandchild.

Mark G. Sklarz is a partner in the Corporate and Business Law Department of Day Pitney LLP’s New Haven office.

He is the Chair and Past President of the Board of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven, President of First City Fund Corporation, Past President of Congregation Mishkan Israel, a member of the Board of Trustees and Past Chair of the Jewish Foundation of Greater New Haven, Past President of the JCC of Greater New Haven, and a past member of the Board of Trustees of Hopkins School. Sklarz is also an active member of the New Haven County and Connecticut Bar Associations (CBA), Vice Chair of the Business Law section of the CBA and a member of the Tax Section of the CBA. He was a longtime member of the Connecticut Bar Examining Committee and a member of the Business Taxation, Real Estate, Probate and Trust Law Sections of the American Bar Association.

Sklarz lives in New Haven with his wife, Judy. They have two sons – Jeff Sklarz, married to Karen Sklarz, and Rick Sklarz, married to Cambra Sklarz – and two grandchildren.

The Greater New Haven Torch of Liberty Award Reception is one of ADL’s premier annual events in Connecticut, attracting more than four hundred prominent and leading citizens from the Greater New Haven area. The Anti-Defamation League, founded in 1913, is devoted to fighting anti-Semitism, racism and other forms of bigotry, building bridges of understanding and safeguarding our liberties.

More information: Janet Magid (203) 2886500 x313 or jmagid@adl.org.

For references please contact Sydney Perry at sperry@jewishnewhaven.org

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Education

JHSC Students Win Honorable Mention in National Science Competition The Jewish High School of Connecticut (JHSC) has announced for the second time in three years, a JHSC team made the top ten percent in the Toshiba/ ExploraVision competition, winning them an honorable mention.

By placing in the top ten percent out of 14,000 entries, the JHSC team is only one of four teams in Connecticut to reach this level of distinction and places them as the highest ranked 9th grade team in the state.

In the Toshiba sponsored competition, teams researched and selected an emerging technology, exploring its creation, function and operation. In addition, they projected their chosen technology 20 years into the future and prepared an in-depth report that

conveyed their vision of how it might develop. The JHSC team’s submission was the ‘Graphilter’, which uses reverse osmosis through a graphene filter to purify water supplies.

Principal and Faculty Coach Dr. Paul Castle extended his congratulations to the team, “for their commitment to the project over many months, their resilience, their teamwork, and their well-deserved success.”

The winning team was comprised of freshmen Alexandra Frenzel of Milford, Jacques Ben-Avie of New Haven, Katya Labowe-Stoll of New Haven, and Rafi Brodie of Trumbull. The school also recognized eleventh grader and 2012 Team Captain, Eva Gerber of Woodbridge for mentoring this year’s team.

Ezra Academy Gala Raises Over $100,000 for Scholarships, Judaic Program

Jocelyn Hurwitz (left) with Stacey Trachten (right), who continues the work of her grandparents, Moris and Shirley, generously supporting community at Ezra Academy Gala 2014.

JHSC Students Attend AIPAC Conference

On March 8, more than 270 Ezra Academy supporters joined together to honor the Trachten family for their longstanding support of Ezra Academy, Jewish education and the Jewish community of Greater New Haven. Through the generosity of those in attendance, as well as numerous friends of Ezra Academy who were unable to attend, more than $100,000 was raised to support scholarships and fund new Judaic curriculum and technology.

Ezra Academy is grateful to be a beneficiary of The Morris and Sylvia Trachten Family Foundation, which has provided significant support over the past two years for the purchase of textbooks, stateof-the-art technology, and other learning resources designed to foster students’ understanding of their Jewish culture and heritage. “For four generations in New Haven, the Trachten family has demonstrated that the strength of a community depends on every member’s willingness to do what they can to secure those institutions that foster a thriving Jewish community,” said Melanie Waynik, Ezra Academy’s Head of School.

Morris and Shirley Trachten set an example of community philanthropy that their children and their spouses maintain: David and Stacey; Gary and Evelyn; Vicki and Rob; and Roberta. Now their grandchildren continue to strengthen their own communities and programs abroad, both individually and through the family’s foundation.

“It was an honor to celebrate the leadership and generosity of the Trachten family in this most significant and meaningful way,” Waynik said. “Their support instills in our students the importance of giving back, which is critical to strengthening our community for generations to come.”

Students from the Jewish High School of Connecticut joined Jews from around the globe at the annual AIPAC Policy Conference in Washington, D.C. Pictured here are the attendees (l-r) junior Emma Judd, senior Shaina Gluckman, junior Batsheva Labowe-Stoll, and senior Shane Rand.

During the first week of March, four Jewish High School of Connecticut (JHSC) students traveled to Washington, D.C. with students from the Stamford JCC delegation and attended the annual American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) Policy Conference.

AIPAC gathers Jews from around the globe for the three-day conference.

Attendees heard from political leaders, including Secretary of State John Kerry, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Arizona Senator John McCain. AIPAC is dedicated to a bipartisan, multicultural solution to the IsraeliPalestinian conflict.

“We heard from people from the Latino, African American, and Palestinian communities. It was fascinating to hear such inspiring voices from across the political, geographical, and religious spectrum,” said Junior Batsheva Labowe-Stoll of New Haven.

The students kept a busy schedule, attending morning, afternoon and evening sessions. Breakout sessions allowed participants to concentrate on specific topics that highlighted issues such as

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Through the courtesy of Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, the students toured the Capitol building, including the entire main structure and the many corridors that Congressmen use inside the building.

“We had an incredible time at AIPAC; it is an inspiring organization. We wish to thank our sponsoring organizations and synagogues for providing us with the opportunity to experience the conference: Beth El Keser Israel, Temple Emanuel, Congregation Or Shalom, and Temple Beth Sholom. A special thanks to Sydney Perry, the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven and Rabbi Cohen from Agudath Shalom in Stamford,” said Labowe-Stoll.

Anita Diamant to Speak at JHSC Gala Anita Diamant, author of the international best selling novel The Red Tent, will be the special guest speaker at the Jewish High School of Connecticut (JHSC) Annual Gala on May 18 at the Rolling Hills Country Club in Wilton. Senator Christopher Dodd, Ruth Messinger – President of American Jewish World Service, and Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman are the event’s honorary Co-Chairs.

In its fourth year, Connecticut’s only accredited Jewish high school is preparing to graduate its pioneer class in June. The Gala honors Jo-Ann Price and celebrates the legacy and pioneer spirit of her parents Leo and Libby Nevas.

Ezra Academy teachers Maureen Williams, Dr. Sarah Berke, Beth Messina, and Ina Gross celebrated the many years of dedication from the Trachten family.

technological advances, scientific innovations, socio-economic trade, and poverty. One session examined grass root efforts to encourage civilians to engage in the peace process, such as educating Palestinians to become doctors and teachers in Israel. According to LaboweStoll, no topic received more attention than Iran and its nuclear program, and the peace talks.

Leo and Libby Nevas were proud first supporters of JHSC and cared deeply about the future of the Jewish people, believing that Jewish education is critical to Jewish continuity. Leo Nevas was widely recognized for his pioneering role in breaking the housing discrimination

against Jews in Westport and in championing rights and opportunities for all people. As JHSC Board Vice-President, Price came to JHSC through her father’s early support and belief in its pluralistic mission. Price resides in Chester with her husband, Michael Price.

For tickets and sponsorship opportunities: (203) 907-0055 or jlipshitz@jhsct.org.

More information: jhsct.org.

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Education CIC Curriculum Fosters Inventiveness in Ezra Academy Students Reviewing flashcards to learn vocabulary words or remember key points for an exam is a time-tested studying tool.

Imagine if your nose could help jog your memory. An invention by an Ezra Academy fifth grader could do just that. This year, as part of Ezra’s participation in the Connecticut Invention Convention (CIC), this student created flashcards that use scent to trigger memory. Other students developed rear-vision goggles, a device to improve mobility in deep snow, and oceancleaning attachments for a boat.

The program was coordinated by Dr. Sarah Berke, a first-year teacher at Ezra who chairs Ezra’s science department and holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience. Ezra teachers used the CIC curriculum to guide K-8 students in identifying a vexing problem in their own lives. The students each then considered possible solutions, selected one, and refined it into a working prototype.

CIC is an award-winning program sponsored by the Connecticut Educators Network for the Talented and Gifted.

Also supporting the initiative are the Schools of Engineering, Business, and Education at the University of Connecticut. The mission is to encourage K-8 students to develop an interest in science and technology and to introduce them to cutting-edge career opportunities.

Since the CIC’s statewide convention was held on a Saturday, Ezra Academy held its own Invention Convention, attended by CIC judges, on April 9.

Dr. Berke said she was delighted with her students’ accomplishments. “CIC is a perfect fit with the Ezra course of study, which is designed according to state and national standards with a focus on critical thinking and best practices in science education.”

Dr. Berke said Ezra’s rigorous curriculum is reinforced by strong community support and teamwork among students, faculty and parents. She has especially enjoyed opportunities to integrate curriculum, for example, mummifying chicken legs to create “Chicken Pharaohs.” In this way, fifth graders were able to study the science underlying the mummification process in tandem with their study of Ancient Egypt. Another of Dr. Berke’s favorite collaborations was with Rabbi Amanda Brodie in studying The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks with eighth graders.

Students had the opportunity to delve into bio-medical ethics from a Jewish perspective and explore the science of stem-cell research.

Next year, Dr. Berke looks forward to participating again in the Connecticut Invention Convention, and hopes to host a “Jewish Connecticut Invention Convention” at Ezra Academy.

Dr. Sarah Berke, chair of the Ezra Academy science department, works with eighth graders.

Podoloff Scholarship Calls for High School Senior Applicants The Emma Kohn Podoloff Scholarship Fund of the National Council of Jewish Women’s Greater New Haven Chapter at the Jewish Foundation, sponsors a scholarship to advance the scholastic and vocational education of Jewish high school seniors. An academic average of “B” or better plus verified financial need qualifies a student to be considered. The applicant must have resided in Greater New Haven area for at least a year prior to the application date.

The awards will average $1,500, depending on the number of qualified applicants and funds available. The awards are given directly to the students.

Any student who fits the criteria can access the application packet by email request to Jennifer Bayer at jbayer@jewishnewhaven.org or at newhavenjewishfoundation.org.

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Yom HaZikaron Remembers Fallen Soldiers Observing Yom HaZikaron, Day of Remembrance for the Fallen Soldiers of Israel and Victims of Terrorism,

right before Yom Ha’atzmaut, Israel’s Independence Day, is intended to remind people of the price paid for independence and of what was accomplished by the soldiers’ sacrifices. Most Israeli’s have served in the armed forces or have a connection with people who were killed during their military service. The community will observe Yom HaZikaron in a ceremony May 4 at 6:30 p.m. at the JCC. Israeli emissaries Amit Amar and Nir Lustig and the community will honor and remember those who sacrificed their lives for the safety and security of the Jewish homeland in Israel. A ceremony in Hebrew at 6:30 p.m. followed by an English reading and a screening of Green Kippah at 7 p.m. Local Rabbis and members of the community will share poetry, songs, and personal stories of individual soldiers.

JCC Celebrates Israel and Yom Ha’atzmaut

by Laura Ross “The mission of the Young Emissary program is to strengthen the ties between the two regions through building living bridges by means of people to people connections and strengthening the ties with Israel amongst the Jewish people living in the host communities.”

In early May, Israelis and the Jewish Diaspora will be celebrating Yom Hazikaron/Israel Day of Remembrance and Yom Ha’atzmaut/Israel Independence Day. Young emissaries Nir Lustig and Amit Amar will share the Israeli experience with the JCC in a week-long celebration of Israeli culture under the collaborative guidance of Young Emissary Coordinator Amalya Brownstein and Director of Jewish Family Engagement & Outreach Laura Ross.

Yom Hazikaron is observed in accordance with the Jewish calendar and

begins on 4 Iyar/ May 4 at 8 p.m. with a siren that can be heard throughout the country. Out of respect, all are expected to take a pause from activity, and places of public entertainment are closed for the day’s entirety. 11 a.m. the following morning, ceremonies continue after another siren and the flag is lowered at half-staff. Many Israelis visit cemeteries, pay respect for loved ones and attend memorial ceremonies. The day transitions into Yom Ha’atzmaut between 7 and 8 p.m. with military attendance on Mount Herzl and the return of the flag to full staff. The seamless transition is meant to remind people of the sacrifice paid for independence.

May 5 through May 9 visit the JCC and experience Israeli delicacies, Israeli dance, karaoke, and other activities to commemorate these holidays.

Grillin’, Chillin’ at the JCC This Summer

Our favorite part of summer is cooling down with sizzlin’ sounds of the best local bands at the outdoor JCC’s Grill n’ Chill summer music series, featuring a delicious Kosher BBQ and great talent.

The hot food and cool tunes kick off with Beatles/Simon & Garfunkel tribute duo Mark Schwartz and Preston John on June 25 5-8 p.m. All performances take place on the Terrace. For a break from the sun, you can enjoy the music from the new adjacent Living Room.

Dave Quick performs on July 9, and performers on July 23 and August 6 are TBA. Check jccnh.org for the full lineup! In case of rain, each show will move inside to the Vine Auditorium.

Local Farm Offers CSA Pickup at JCC Looking for a way to eat healthy this summer? Interested in supporting local organic farmers and getting fresh, juicy produce? You are in luck! This year, the Massaro Community Farm in Woodbridge is partnering with the JCC and is pleased to offer a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program.

CSA is a popular way for consumers to buy local, seasonal food directly from a farmer. CSA is like a subscription: For a fee, consumers receive a box of fresh, locally grown, seasonal produce each week throughout the farming season.

The cost for Massaro Community Farm’s 20-week program is $675, and consumers will be able to pick up their weekly box of fresh produce at the JCC, 360 Amity Rd. in Woodbridge, on Wednesdays from noon to 8 p.m.

To subscribe, visit massarofarmcsa.org, fill out the 2014 registration form, and indicate that you would like to choose the JCC drop-off option. Bon appétit!

Topics that shape our world and community

April 3

Mark Russ Federman of Russ & Daughters reveals the history and hard work behind his iconic restaurant.

Each event:

Food for Thought

Thursdays at 5:30 pm • JCC Vine Auditorium

May 1

June 12

The legendary chef will discuss his life and love of cooking with WNPR’s host of “The Food Schmooze.”

The founders of Honest Tea and Nantucket Nectars offer fresh perspectives on running an ethical food business.

Jacques Pepin and Faith Middleton

Sponsored by Whitney Center.

$30 ($25 member price)

includes cocktails and refreshments

For tickets: (203) 387-2522 x300, www.jccnh.org

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2 01 4

Barry Nalebuff and Tom Scott

In conjunction with the Jewish Business League.

JCC of Greater New Haven Beckerman/Lender Building 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge

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Families Invited to JCC Youth Theatre’s First Show: The Wizard of Oz The JCC Youth Theatre invites families to their spring production of The Wizard of Oz, Young Performer’s Edition on Sunday, May 18 at the JCC of Greater New Haven, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

Dorothy triumphs over a Wicked Witch with the help of her new friends: the Scarecrow, Tin Man and Cowardly Lion.

Journey with us and discover why there truly is no place like home.

This classic story by L. Frank Baum is being mounted at the JCC featuring a talented cast of young actors. With a memorable score by Harold Arlen and E.Y. Harburg, you are sure to leave the theatre whistling such musical theatre classics as: “Ding Dong, the Witch is Dead” and “Over the Rainbow.”

The production team includes: director Kristy Chambrelli and music director Beth Lorenzo. The young actors, from both New Haven and Fairfield counties, range in age from 7 to 18. The show is followed by a meet and greet with the cast on stage. Audience members can interact with the characters and get autographs.

We follow Dorothy on her journey back to Kansas where she meets Glinda, the Good Witch of the North who helps guide her down the yellow brick road to Oz.

Showings are at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. Tickets are $10. To purchase tickets or for more information: Alison Lurie, (203) 387-2424 or alisonl@jccnh.org.

Campers enjoy a summer of fun at JCC Day Camps.

Help Send a Kid to Camp Sounds of laughter and song fill the air during Barry Vine’s visit to the JCC Day Camp. He writes, “I could not tell which of the children attended camp on scholarship; nor could I tell which would someday become a leader in the greater New Haven community. But I do know that, one of these children, perhaps many of them, would someday fill that leadership role…The JCC opened my world.”

Vine never forgot his wonderful summers at the JCC Camp in the early 1950s, and he never forgot the anonymous benefactors who made it possible for him to attend. Now Vine spearheads a program to raise money for the “Barry Vine Send a Kid to Camp Scholarship Fund” so other kids can enjoy the wonderful summers at the JCC Day Camps in New Haven.

“Mr. Vine has made a tremendous contribution to the JCC of Greater New Haven in many ways over the last several decades,” said Scott Cohen, Chief Operating Officer. “Through this fund, which the JCC has named in his honor, Mr. Vine acknowledges how others helped him when he needed it, and reaffirms his willingness and commitment to give back in a meaningful way. I know I speak for the JCC board and staff when I say that we are all very grateful for his contribution.”

Please consider sending a child to the JCC Day Camp. The cost for one child to attend camp is $250 per week, $1,000 for one month, or $1,800 to provide a full summer of camp memories. Tax deductible contributions may be made to: ATTN: Send a Kid to Camp JCC of Greater New Haven 360 Amity Road, Woodbridge, CT 06525

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JCC Now Offers Dancing Thru Pregnancy The JCC of Greater New Haven at 360 Amity Rd. in Woodbridge is the newest location to offer Dancing Thru Pregnancy’s Total Pregnancy Fitness program beginning May 6, 2014. The class meets on Tuesdays from 6 to 7 p.m. and will be taught by DTP® Master Teacher Leslie Blatteau, MA CDTP. “We’re thrilled to offer this class at the JCC as part of our mission to facilitate total wellness through programs that stimulates mind, body and spirit,” said Susan Donovan, Director of Fitness Services at the JCC. “The JCC strives to create a warm, friendly atmosphere for health, thought, learning and values for everyone in the community.”

Developed by Yale Athletic Department movement specialist Ann Cowlin, MA

CSM CCE, the program has been serving Greater New Haven since 1981 and locations around the world since the mid-1990s.

The class is an ongoing movement program based on dance, yoga, principles of strength training and cardiovascular fitness, as well as observations of movement patterns in labor and birth. Women are encouraged to start between 10 and 14 weeks – although they may begin later – and continue throughout their pregnancies.

More information and registration: jccnh.org. Drop-in fees are $15 for JCC members/$20 for nonmembers, 4-class packages are $40 for members/ $60 for nonmembers.

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JCC Theaterworks’ First Season The JCC’s resident theater company ended its 2013-2014 season last month.

Shalom New Haven checked in with Theaterworks’ Director and JCC Cultural Arts Manager DeDe Jacobs-Komisar, to hear her thoughts on how the company’s first season went.

Shalom New Haven: Let’s begin with quick recap of the productions you did this year.

DeDe Jacobs-Komisar: We launched in December with a workshop of Ian Cohen’s He Who Laughs, a modern-day retelling of the Binding of Isaac, directed

by Reuven Russell. With the support of the Connecticut Humanities Fund, this was presented along with two interfaith panels exploring the play’s theological and sociological themes. In February, we brought in The Jewish Plays Project again, directed by David Winitsky, to present the finalists of their annual playwriting contest. Our audience voted on their favorite, and God’s Honest Truth by Renee Calarco, based on the crazy, true story of the “Indiana Jones Rabbi,” was the winner. It’s going on to the JPP’s final contest in New York in May to see if it will

win a full workshop at the 14th Street Y this summer.

In March, we produced The Last Seder,

by Jennifer Maisel, directed by Dana Sachs. An ensemble of very talented actors from all over the community told the story of the Price daughters’ last seder in their childhood home.

We closed the season with a reading of Itta Chana Englander’s I’m Not Like You, a new play about stigma and secrets in the Jewish community.

SNH: Wow, that’s a lot.

DJK: Yeah, it’s been a great year. I’m really grateful to all of the people who made it happen, including our audiences.

SNH: Who came to see the shows?

DJK: It really varied based on the production, which was great. We had a lot of JCC members wanting to support Jewish theater. For He Who Laughs, we partnered with churches, mosques, synagogues, and religious studies organizations in the area, offering free tickets. We brought in about 80 people that way who had never before attended a JCC event.

Little Superheros Celebrate Purim

The JCC hosts a Costume Carnival for Purim.

The hamantaschen – a trifolded cookie pocketing a gooey fruit center–is a delicious reminder of the Jews’ victory at the hands of its namesake, the corrupt Persian Prime Minister Haman. Flour, eggs and sugar – the universal beginnings of most baking recipes – promise nothing extraordinary. It’s no secret that the cookie’s doughy perimeter is not what we look forward to. The “mmm”-inducing factor is the fruit jelly-like center of the cookie, raspberry, apricot and sometimes prune. It all depends on taste.

Overcoming adversity and finding the courage to do it; good conquering evil; hierarchal dysfunction and the consequential corruption and subjugation that arises from it. These are tropes from the days of Esther. What distinguishes each story is who, how, and why. The 14 Adar/Purim, presents the opportunity to consider the whos, hows and whys of our own lives, and then welcomes us to literally walk in someone else’s shoes.

The Costume Carnival is born.

This year, the JCC Vine Auditorium was an unrecognizable freilich frenzy of balloons, music, carnival games, and live

Theaterworks closed with a reading of I’m Not Like You.

entertainment as families across the Greater New Haven area were invited to participate in the Costume Carnival.

The event was a stimulating hybrid of old and new. Superheroes, princesses, astronauts, dinosaurs, and the like danced to alternating live Klezmer and recorded pop music while feasting on hamantaschen and cotton candy. A photo booth transported the costumed superhero to the moon, princess to Lego Land, and astronaut to the beach.

The day of painted faces, prizes and play culminated in a jubilant parade led by Klezmer musicians Brian Slattery and Adam Matlock. Director of Jewish Family Engagement & Outreach Laura Ross danced a one-woman hora around the building.

Purim encourages us to acknowledge the universality of the shortbread and be introspective, then challenge the taste buds to obtain alternative perspective by wondering what it’s like to be the prune-lover. JCC’s Costume Carnival set the stage to share this profound lesson with the littlest of superheroes, from all over the Greater New Haven area.

Local Athletes Compete in 19th Maccabiah Games in Israel Rachel Plotke, a senior now at Hamden Hall, and Ahna Johnson, a graduate of Hamden High School and Fairfield University are two of the four athletes from the Greater New Haven area who competed on the international sports stage this past summer. They met in Hamden to reminisce about their experiences in Israel this past summer where they represented the USA in the 19th Maccabiah Games. Rachel played on the Maccabi USA Junior Women’s Basketball Team and Ahna played on the Maccabi USA Open Women’s Soccer Team; both teams won the gold medal in their divisions. Seth Cohen, a graduate of Hamden High School and Bentley University, played on the Maccabi USA Open Men’s Rugby Team, which won a gold medal in 7s and a bronze medal in 15s. Jacob Sandry, originally from Minnesota and now a junior at Yale University, competed with the Maccabi USA Open Men’s Half Marathon Team and won a silver medal.

Nine thousand athletes from 70 nations participated in more than 30 different sports in this year’s Games. The Maccabiah Games were first played in Israel in 1932 and, with few interruptions, have been played there every four years ever since. This summer the twelve hundred athletes on the Maccabi USA teams made up the largest foreign contingent, ever, to travel to international competitions. The Maccabi USA program “endeavors, through sports, to perpetuate and preserve the American Jewish community by encouraging Jewish pride, strengthening Jewish bonds and by creating a heightened awareness of Israel and Jewish identity. The volunteer organization seeks to enrich the lives of

Rachel Plotke, left, a senior at Hamden Hall, and Ahna Johnson, a graduate of Hamden High School (2005) and Fairfield University (2009) participate in the 19th Maccabiah Games.

Jewish youth in the United States, Israel and the Diaspora through athletic, cultural and educational programs.” Further, Maccabi USA strives to “provide Jewish athletes the world over the opportunity to share their heritage and customs in competitive athletic settings.”

Tryouts were held throughout the United States several months before the Games.

Athletes chosen for the teams met each other once they had arrived in Israel this summer, where they had less than two weeks before the Games began to practice together and coalesce as a team.

During that time, the athletes were also taken on tours throughout Israel, where they had the opportunity to learn about Israel’s history and culture, meet individuals of the many nationalities who make up Israel, sample the different foods of Israel, and meet competing teams.

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Freema Nadler Celebrates 100 Years of an Amazing Life

By Beatrice Held In Chicago, in the spring of 1914 a baby girl was born to Lisa and Samuel Nadler, a couple who had emigrated from Tsarist Russia. The little girl’s name was Freema.

She was an active, skinny child with a special feeling for music. That was not surprising, since her father played the violin and her mother had a lovely voice and sang to her children. When Freema heard music, she would start dancing.

Her parents realized her talent, and when they moved to New York City, they took her to the Neighborhood Playhouse to enroll in dancing classes. Life was not easy, but every day they would bring the little girl to the studio.

who later on became a journalist and who was also born in the United States.

turn; she organized a student choir where she introduced American folk songs.

During World War II every family was affected in many different ways. Freema worked on a farm and in a school in the Ural Mountains in the town of Mramor.

There was very little to eat, and very often a meal would consist of a glass of boiling water and a single garlic clove.

Her husband was on the Western Front and fought all the years until the Victory of 1945.

Freema led the choir for thirty years.

When Pete Seeger visited Russia, he was invited to sing at the University where Freema worked. She greeted him and introduced him to the students.

In the 1920s, Martha Graham, considered the “Mother of Modern Dance,” invited the most talented girls to join her company, one of whom was Freema.

She quickly became one of the lead dancers and dancing soon became her life and love.

In the1930s, Freema’s family, her parents and her sister, made a difficult decision to relocate to Russia and to reunite with their extended family. They settled in Moscow, but the move was hard for Freema because she did not speak Russian. She also could not find a dance company to join because modern dance was not yet introduced in Russia.

When she graduated from Teacher Training College of Foreign Languages in Moscow, she was invited to stay and teach English which she did for more than forty years. While a student in college, she met her future husband, Bernard,

Freema, far right, was one of the most talented dancers performing with the “Mother of Modern Dance,” Martha Graham, center.

When the war was over, Freema returned to Moscow to continue teaching at her college. Her passion for music took a new

In 1991, Freema and her family (her daughter, granddaughter and greatgranddaughter) came back to the United States. The Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven and Congregation Or Shalom sponsored, welcomed and helped them adjust and settle in their new home.

Freema did not have any relatives or even acquaintances in America, and thanks to the care and warmth of these new friends, it was possible to adjust to the new life in New Haven. This help was crucial and to this day she says thank you to everybody who was involved in making the family welcome.

Freema and her husband Bernard.

Freema was full of energy and decided to apply her knowledge of two languages helping translate for Russian immigrants during their doctors’ visits. She continued working until she was ninety years old. She also organized a choir in Adult Day Care in New Haven, where she led singing sessions with the elderly, who actually knew all the songs and enjoyed singing them and feeling younger.

Freema is a loving and optimistic person with an independent mind. She raised her daughter, Beatrice, with whom she lives now, and helped raise a granddaughter Maria and two great-grand-

children, Alissa and Nick. They are all grown now, but call her up every day to tell her their news, ask her how she is feeling and also discuss the latest crossword puzzles.

A hundred years is a long time, and many events took place in Freema’s life, but if you asked her about the secret of her longevity, she would say that she worked hard all her life, but she enjoyed every day doing things that were close to her heart. She would also say that she is blessed to have such a loving and devoted family.

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Camp Gan Israel of Greater New Haven Re-Accredited by ACA Camp Gan Israel of Greater New Haven was visited by the American Camp Association during the 2013 camp season, and recently received official notice that it passed its accreditation review with a score of 100%. The ACA, founded in 1910, is an independent community of camp professionals whose goal is to promote and improve the camp experience. The ACA is a leading authority in youth development and collaborates with experts and youth service agencies to ensure the highest standards in the camp industry.

ACA accreditation is voluntary and its requirements exceed the State of CT licensing requirements. Accreditation is a long process involving months of work, in which the camp undergoes a thorough review of its operation — over 300 standards from staff qualifications and training to emergency management — and assures families that camps have made the commitment to a safe, nurturing environment for their children. Camps undergo the accreditation process every three years.

Inspectors visit the camp site for a day in the summer, interviewing campers, parents and staff, observing different

activities, and reviewing all camp policies and management procedures.

“Your work reflects the detail and care given to the children in your camp...

Parents are lucky to have Gan Israel!” said ACA Inspector Carol Walsh. Wayne Fleischman, camp parent, agrees, “CGI was a positive, wonderful camp experience, where my children had unbelievable fun, learned new things and made friends, all in a loving Jewish environment. The counselors were fantastic— caring, patient, and fun. Thank you for letting my kids experience the best camp in the universe!”

Camp Gan Israel of Greater New Haven is a summer camp for boys and girls ages 2-12, located at Barnard Magnet School in New Haven. Camp dates for the 2014 summer season are June 30 - August 8. Highlights of this summer’s schedule include a week-long circus arts training residency, archery, fishing, Club Getaway overnight, JCrafts workshop series, fantastic field trips, shows, and more.

More information: GanIsraelNH.com or Chanie Wilhelm, info@GanIsraelNH.com or (203) 701-9386.

Walk Against Hunger on May 14 for Connecticut Food Bank

By Rabbi Joshua D. Ratner “This is the bread of affliction our ancestors ate in the land of Egypt. Let all who are hungry come and eat.” We utter these seminal words every Passover Seder, just before we dive into the sumptuous feast that awaits us. And we effectuate these words by opening up our homes to family and friends on Passover or by donating our hametz to food pantries. But what do we do to ensure that those who are hungry can eat during the rest of the year?

stantial difference in the fight against hunger. Through the coordination of the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater New Haven, synagogues from across our region are forming teams to participate in the Connecticut Food Bank’s May 4, 2014 Walk Against Hunger. We will march and raise significant amounts of money to support the efforts of the Connecticut Food Bank, money that will go directly toward providing groceries and hot meals for hungry children, families, seniors, and individuals in New Haven.

Please consider signing up for a team at ctfoodbank.org/walk and join us in East Rock Park on Sunday afternoon!

The sad truth is that far too many in our midst continue to go hungry. According to a 2013 study called “Map the Meal Gap,” nearly 15 percent of the population of New Haven County is food insecure. More than 123,000 people lack access to sufficient food. They face impossible decisions between buying enough food, paying their rent or purchasing needed medicine. In 21 century America, it is tragic that so many continue to go hungry.

The great medieval sage Maimonides declared that the Jewish community is obligated to care for the non-Jewish poor along with the Jewish poor mipnei darkei shalom (for the sake of peace). By coming together as a community, by committing our physical as well as our financial resources, we are helping to bring the hungry in New Haven a little closer to experiencing shalom.

This year, in a remarkable display of community solidarity, Jews from across geographical and denominational divides will be joining together to make a sub-

Miriam’s Reception

Seventy-five women attending Temple Beth Tikvah’s “Miriam Reception” are blessed

by Rabbi Stacy Offner. Miriam’s Reception was a Passover-inspired cocktail and smallplate event that honored the role of Miriam and recognized the contributions of women to Jewish culture past and present.

Rabbi Offner plays Miriam the child/sister, risk taker, prophet and water bearer at the well in describing her life throughout the ages.

Shir Ba’Emek Concert for Young Emissaries Come support the Young Emissaries Program with Amit Amar and Nir Lustig, New Haven’s Young Emissaries, who will host dinner and a show on May 19, 5:30 p.m. at the JCC. Enjoy a traditional Israeli dinner and listen to the group Shir Ba’Emek, the city of Afula’s homegrown adult choir.

Open to the public. $10 adult, $7 children For information: Amalya Brownstein, amalyab@jccnh.org

Thank you – todah rabah – to our friends at Dan Perkins Subaru for the generous gift of providing year-round service cars for the emissaries.

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Celebrate Shavuot with BEKI Please join the BEKI community for the festive celebration of Shavuot, celebrating the anniversary of the Giving of the Torah at Sinai about 3,326 years ago. We will reenact the extraordinary experience of our ancestors and show our enthusiasm for receiving Torah. All Shavuot services and programs are free and open to all and no reservations are needed. Schedule of services: • Tuesday, June 3, Minha afternoon service, 8-8:15 p.m. followed by Tiqun Leil Shavuot Night of Adult Studies, including the Festival Evening service. Dairy and parve refreshments. Expand your horizons by attending several Shiurim presentations and studying with us late into the evening.

• Wednesday, June 4, 9:15-11:45 a.m., Festival Morning Service followed by Kiddush. Minha and Maariv services 5:45 p.m.-6:20 p.m.

• Thursday June 5, 9:15 a.m.-12:25 p.m. Festival Morning Service, Yizkor Memorial Service, and the reading of the Book of Ruth to a uniquely beautiful and ancient melody. Kiddush to follow the service. Festival Minha services 5:45-6 p.m.

BEKI is located at 85 Harrison St. at the corner of Whalley Avenue in New Haven.

For information: (203) 389-2108 or office@beki.org.

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Synagogues Chabad of Orange/Woodbridge David Nesenoff to Speak at Community Dinner

Everyone is invited to join Chabad of Orange/Woodbridge for a community Shabbat dinner – Israeli style, Friday, May 2, 6:30 p.m. at Chabad, 261 Derby Avenue, Orange. Guest speaker, David Nesenoff will captivate the audience with the Helen Thomas/David Nesenoff Israel story “A Funny Thing Happened When I was at the White House!” Also features a special children’s program.

David Nesenoff is an American Rabbi, independent filmmaker, singer/songwriter of contemporary Jewish music, and blogger. His short films have been shown at various festivals including Sundance and the San Francisco Jewish Film Festival.

He gained national attention in June 2010 with a video of opinion columnist Helen Thomas making controversial statements about Israel. Thomas then resigned and Nesenoff received more than 25,000 pieces of hate mail and several death threats. Nesenoff’s fascinating talk is a story of humor, danger, spirituality, media bias, and cyber hatred. $20/adult, $10/child. RSVP: (203) 795-7095 or info@chabadow.org.

Hebrew Congregation of Woodmont/Chabad Lag B’Omer Community BBQ Sunday, May 18 , 4 p.m., Trubee Doolittle Park, Beach Ave., between Wall and Bonsilene streets, Milford. Hot dogs, hamburgers, salads & sides, outdoor games, music, and fun for all ages. $6, $100/sponsor.

“John Lennon & the Jews” Tuesday, May 27, 7 p.m., HCW/Chabad. Lecture with Doron Kornbluth, bestselling author, internationally renowned speaker, and licensed Israeli Tour Guide. His articles, newsletter, books, tours of Israel, and international seminars and talks help inspire Jewish identity. $18, $72/Friend (includes admission for 2 and signed book Why Be Jewish?), $180/Sponsor (includes admission for 2, signed book and dinner reception with speaker before event). All proceeds benefit Rebuilding Fund.

Shavuot Torah Reading & Dairy Dinner

Judaism on a Roll Judaism on a Roll, the Jewish Women’s Circle spring series of Lunch ‘n Learn classes, will be held Wednesdays, May 7, 14, 21 from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. at the JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge. Topics include Mastering Time, The Jewish Perspective on Men are from Mars and Women from Venus, and Double Identity: Who Am I? The series is being held in loving memory of Beverly Levy who was an inspiration to all who knew her. “This is a fitting tribute to Beverly, who regularly attended the Lunch ‘n Learn classes and added so much to them with her insightful comments and warm personality,” said instructor Bluma Hecht.

Judaism on a Roll is an opportunity to enjoy in-depth Torah study as it relates to contemporary life. All women are welcome and no prior knowledge or background is necessary. A boxed lunch will be served. $25 for the three-week session or $10 for a single session. RSVP: (203)795-7095 or jwc@chabadow.org.

Wednesday, June 4, 6 p.m., HCW/Chabad. Celebrate the giving of the Torah, hear the Ten Commandments and enjoy a delicious dairy buffet dinner and ice cream.

No charge. $72/Sponsor.

More info or to RSVP: JewishMilford.com, rabbi@JewishMilford.com, (203) 878-4569.

The Hebrew Cong. of Woodmont/Chabad is located at 15 Edgefield Ave., Milford. We welcome Jews of all backgrounds and do not charge membership fees. We are currently building a new Jewish Center in Milford. JewishMilford.com/Rebuild for info, updates, and dedication opportunities.

Westville Synagogue Westville Synagogue hosts Annual Gala honoring Marilyn Katz. Other honors will be awarded. The Event features a musical performance by Zalmen Mlotek.

Sunday, June 15, 7 p.m. at Westville Synagogue. More information: office@ westvilleshul.org

Beverly Levy — In Memoriam The Anti-Defamation League is deeply saddened by the loss of Beverly Levy, a woman of courage, strength and valor who gave so much and is gone too soon.

An ADL Connecticut Regional Board Member for more than two decades, Beverly was a former Connecticut Regional Board Chair, a former Connecticut Regional Development Chair, a member of ADL’s National Executive Committee and National Commission and a major proponent of our

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may

Beckerman Lecture Series Chef Jacques Pepin Thursday, May 1, 5:30-7:30 pm In conversation with Faith Middleton, WNPR. Contact: DeDe Jacobs-Komisar, (203) 387-2522, dedek@jccnh.org. JCC Vine Auditorium, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

Murray Lender 5K Bagel Run Registration Opens Thursday, May 1 Event date: Sept. 21. Register at jccnh.org.

Contact: Susan Donovan, (203) 387-2522, susand@jccnh.org. JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

Dancing Thru Pregnancy Classes Tuesdays, May-Aug., 6-7pm Social support and expertise on stress, discomfort and fitness from pregnancy to motherhood. Time-tested and evidence based. Contact: Susan Donovan, (203) 387-2522, susand@jccnh.org. JCC, 360 Amity Rd, Woodbridge.

Beth Israel Synagogue Weekly Torah Study Sessions Saturdays, Ongoing, 9:30-11 am Contact: Beryl Bloch, (203) 949-0651, berylbloch@aol.com. Beth Israel Synagogue of Wallingford, 22 N Orchard St., Wallingford.

Preschool Shabbat Story Time and Social Hour Sunday, May 4, 11 am-12 pm Contact: Elyse Krantz, education@ tbdcheshire.org. Temple Beth David, 3 Main St., Cheshire.

Civil War Lecture: Assassination of Abraham Lincoln Sunday, May 4, 1-3 pm Contact: Ann Curiale, anncuriale@yahoo.com.

Temple Beth David, 3 Main St., Cheshire.

Yom Hazikaron & Green Kippah Movie Sunday, May 4, 6:30-8 pm Hebrew Ceremony followed by English readings and a movie (with subtitles).

Contact: Amalya Brownstein, amalyab@ jccnh.org. JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

Kabbalah-Inspired Expressive Art & Writing Workshop Wednesday, May 7, 7-9 pm Register by May 1. Contact: Amy Barry, (203) 488-8643, aimwrite@snet.net.

JFGNH Shoreline Office, Lighthouse Sq., 705 Boston Post Rd., Guilford.

Shabbat Friends Cooking Series (Ages 3-5) Friday, May 9, 1-2 pm Monthly cooking-class. Contact: Laura Ross, (203) 387-2522, laurar@jccnh.org.

JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

Artist-in-Residence Program Friday, May 9, 7-9 pm Kabbalat Shabbat service with singer/ songwriter Michael Ochs. Temple Beth David, 3 Main St., Cheshire.

Torah Study and Palestinian/Israeli Conundrum discussion with Michael Ochs Saturday, May 10, 9 am-12 pm Temple Beth David, 3 Main St., Cheshire.

Ninth Annual Comedy Deli Night Saturday, May 10, 6-9:30 pm The David Chevan Quartet and comedian Rich Ceisler. Contact: Michael Ross, mross56@comcast.net. Congregation Mishkan Israel, 785 Ridge Rd., Hamden.

Havdalah and Live Music

by Michael Ochs Saturday, May 10, 7:30-9 pm Temple Beth David, 3 Main St., Cheshire.

ADL Torch of Liberty Awards Tuesday, May 13, 5:30-9 pm Honoring Mark Sklarz whose work strengthens the community. Contact: Jan Magid, (203) 288-6500, jmagid@adl.org.

Congregation B’nai Jacob, 75 Rimmon Rd., Woodbridge.

LJ on the Shoreline (Ages 3-8) Wednesday, May 14, 11am Play, learn and grow to a surprise PJ book! Contact: Laura Ross, (203) 3872522, laurar@jccnh.org. JFGNH Shoreline Office, Lighthouse Sq., 705 Boston Post Rd., Guilford.

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Pirke Avot Wednesday, May 14, 11:15 am-12:15 pm The Chapters of Our Ancestors offers ethical insights. Contact: Rabbi Hesch Sommer, (203) 389-5599, hsommer@jfsnh.org. JFGNH Shoreline Office, Lighthouse Sq., 705 Boston Post Rd., Guilford.

ABC’s of LGBT Wednesday, June 4, 5-6 pm Panel discussion by New Haven Pride Center covering current events affecting the senior LGBT community. Contact: Linda Applebaum, (203) 772-1816, linda@towerone.org. Tower One/Tower East, 18 Tower Ln., New Haven.

Cardozo Group: Attorney Division, Guest Speaker Linda Scherzer Tuesday, June 24, 7:30-9 pm The Cardozo group offers dynamic speakers and networking opportunities. Law students welcome. Contact: Stacey Trachten, (203) 387-2424, strachten@jewishnewhaven.org.

Healing Power of Psalms Thursdays, May 15, 22 & 29, 10-11 am Facilitated by Rabbi Hesch Sommer D.Min. Director of JWHC a division of JFS. Contact: Jill Lesage, (203) 738-0033, jwlesage@jewishnewhaven.org. JFGNH Shoreline Office, Lighthouse Sq., 705 Boston Post Rd., Guilford.

Healing Power of Psalms Thursday, June 5 & 19, 10-11 am Contact: Rabbi Hesch Sommer D.Min., (203) 389-5599, hsommer@jfsnh.org. JFGNH Shoreline Office, Lighthouse Sq., 705 Boston Post Rd., Guilford.

Grill N Chill Summer Music Series Beatles/Simon & Garfunkel Tribute Wednesday, June 25, 5-8 pm Featuring Mark Schwartz and Preston John.

Kosher BBQ. Contact: DeDe Jacobs-Komisar, 203-387-2522, dedek@jccnh.org. JCC Terrace, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

Silidker Family Musician-in-Residence Friday, May 16, 7:30-9 pm • Shabbat Service Saturday, May 17, 7:30-10 pm • Concert In memory of Phyllis Silidker and her son Joel Silidker. Concert featuring Afro-Semitic Experience.

Contact: Sandy Walsh, (203) 245-7028, office@ templebethtikvahct.org. Temple Beth Tikvah, 196 Durham Rd., Madison.

HHNE Sefer Torah Dedication Sunday, May 18, 10 am-5 pm Contact: Ilana Bernstein, (860) 231-0317, bernstein@hhne.org. Hebrew High School of New England, 300 Bloomfield Ave., West Hartford.

Genealogical Travel in Romania Part II Sunday, May 18, 1:30-3:30 pm Contact: Gail Reynolds, (860) 345-2723, publicity@jgsct.org. Godfrey Memorial Library, 134 Newfield St., Middletown.

JCC YouthTheatre presents Wizard of Oz Sunday, May 18, 2pm Tickets: $10. Contact: Alison Lurie, (203) 387-2522, alisonl@jccnh.org. JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge Orchard St. Shul 100th Anniversary Celebration Sunday, May 18, 4-6 pm Congregation Beth Israel/Orchard St. Shul, 232 Orchard St., New Haven.

JHSC Annual Gala: Author Anita Diamant Sunday, May 18, 5:30-9 pm Honoring Jo-Ann Price and Leo and Libby Nevas.

Co-chairs: Sen. Christopher Dodd, Ruth Messinger and Lt. Governor Nancy Wyman. Contact: Josh Lipshitz, (203) 907-0055, jlipshitz@jhsct.org.

Rolling Hills Country Club, 33 Hurlbutt Rd., Wilton.

Lunch & Learn Series Monday, May 19, 11:30 am-1 pm Ken Lekins, New Haven - An Urban Oasis for Migrating Songbirds. Contact: Lisa Ferguson, (203)772-1816, lisaf@towerone.org. Tower One/ Tower East, 18 Tower Ln., New Haven.

Dinner and Concert - Shir B’Emek Monday, May 19, 5:30-7:30 pm Contact: Amalya Brownstein, 203-387-2522, amalyab@jccnh.org. JCC Vine Auditorium, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

JCL Volunteer Appreciation Brunch Wednesday, May 21, 9-10:30 am Guest speaker: Stefan Pryor, CT Commissioner of Education. Open to the community. Contact: Brenda Brenner, (203) 387-2424, bbrenner@jewishnewhaven.org. JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

On the Road with LJ Wednesday, May 28, 4pm Play, learn and grow to a surprise PJ book! Contact: Laura Ross, (203) 387-2522, laurar@jccnh.org.

Peabody Museum, 170 Whitney Ave., New Haven.

CT Region of Hadassah late spring meeting Wednesday, May 28, 6-9 pm Honoring CT Region Annual Givers. Contact: Sally Kleinman, (203) 307-1319, skleinman@hadassah.org. JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

june

JCC Family Fun Day featuring Touch-a-Truck Sunday, June 1, 11 am-3 pm JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

Cantor’s Family Concert Sunday, June 1, 4-6 pm With Gerard Edery & Peninnah Schram, The Minstrel and The Storyteller. Contact: Arthur Giglio, (203) 288-3877, cantorg@cmihamden.org. Congregation Mishkan Israel, 785 Ridge Rd., Hamden.

Lunch & Learn Series Monday, June 2, 11:30 am-1 pm Dorie Petrochko, My Life as a Bird Artist. Contact: Lisa Ferguson, (203)772-1816, lisaf@towerone.org.

Tower One/Tower East, 18 Tower Ln., New Haven.

Jewish Historical Society Annual Meeting Sunday, June 8, 9 am-1 pm Contact: Phyllis Medvedow, (203) 878-3446, ujie@optonline.net. JCC Vine Auditorium, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

Bagels & Books (Ages 3-5) Sun, June 8, 10:30-11:15 am Free Bagel Brunch, sing alongs, storytime, and craft. RSVP: Laura LJ Ross, (203) 387-2522, laurar@jccnh.org. JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

Create a Jewish Legacy Training Session Planned Giving 101 with Ellen Estes Monday, June 9, 7-9 pm Contact: Lisa Stanger, (203) 387-2424, lstanger@jewishnewhaven.org. Tower One/ Tower East, 18 Tower Ln., New Haven.

Mitch Anthony,The New Retirementality Tuesday, June 10, 7-9 pm Contact: Sydney Perry, (203) 387-2424, sperry@ jewishnewhaven.org. Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

Pirke Avot Wednesday, June 11, 11:15 am-12:15 pm Contact: Rabbi Hesch Sommer, (203) 389-5599, hsommer@jfsnh.org. JFGNH Shoreline Office, Lighthouse Sq., 705 Boston Post Rd., Guilford.

Federation, Foundation & JCC Annual Meeting Wednesday, June 11, 6:30-9 pm Contact: Hilary Goldberg, (203) 387-2424, hgoldberg@jewishnewhaven.org. JCC Vine Auditorium, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

Interfaith the Dialogue Continues – Things that Really Matter Wednesday, June 12, 6:30-9 pm Contact: Sydney Perry, (203) 387-2424, sperry@ jewishnewhaven.org. Trinity Church, 950 Chapel St., New Haven.

Ryan C Gordon Memorial Kiddush Cup Thursday, June 12, 7:45 am-5 pm Congregation Beth Israel hosts. Contact: Phyllis Gordon, (203) 606-3611, pgordon@ snet.net. Traditions Golf Club, 37 Harrison Rd., Wallingford.

Beckerman Lecture Series: Barry Nalebuff and Tom Scott Thursday, June 12, 5:30-7:30 pm The co-founders of Honest Tea, and Nantucket Nectars discuss food industry ethics. Contact: DeDe Jacobs-Komisar, (203) 387-2522, dedek@jccnh.org. JCC Vine Auditorium, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

Shabbat Friends Cooking Series (Ages 3-5) Friday, June 13, 1-2pm Contact: Laura Ross, (203) 387-2522, laurar@ jccnh.org. JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

Westville Synagogue Annual Gala Sunday, June 15, 7 pm Honoring Marilyn Katz. Musical performance by Zalmen Mlotek. Contact: Betsy Schulman, (203) 464-8729, betsyschulman@gmail.com. Westville Synagogue, 74 W Prospect St., New Haven.

Farewell to Israeli Emissaries: Amit and Nir Tuesday, June 17, 6:30-7 pm Contact: Amalya Brownstein, (203) 387-2522, amalyab@jccnh.org. JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

LJ on the Shoreline (Ages 3-8) Wednesday, June 18, 11am Contact: Laura Ross, (203) 387-2JCC, laurar@ jccnh.org. JFGNH Shoreline Office, Lighthouse Sq., 705 Boston Post Rd., Guilford.

On the Road with LJ Wednesday, June 24, 4pm Special guest: Claire of Claire’s Cornercopia.

Contact: Laura Ross, (203) 387-2522, laurar@ jccnh.org. The Green in Downtown New Haven.

july

Healing Power of Psalms Thursday, July 3, 17 & 31, 10-11 am Contact: Rabbi Hesch Sommer D.Min., (203) 389-5599, hsommer@jfsnh.org. JFGNH Shoreline Office, Lighthouse Square, 705 Boston Post Rd., Guilford.

Pirke Avot Wednesday, July 9, 11:15 am-12:15 pm Contact: Rabbi Hesch Sommer, (203) 389-5599, hsommer@jfsnh.org. JFGNH Shoreline Office, Lighthouse Sq., 705 Boston Post Rd., Guilford.

Grill n’ Chill Summer Music Series Wednesday, July 9, 5-8 pm Featuring Dave Quick. Kosher BBQ. Contact: DeDe Jacobs-Komisar, (203) 387-2522, dedek@jccnh.org. JCC Terrace, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

Shabbat Friends Cooking Series (ages 3-5) Friday, July 11, 1-2 pm Contact: Laura Ross, (203) 387-2522, laurar@jccnh.org. JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

Bagels & Books (Ages 3-5) Sunday, July 13, 10:30-11:15 am RSVP: Laura LJ Ross, (203) 387-2522, laurar@ jccnh.org. JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

Towers’ Annual Family/Resident Picnic Sunday, July 20, 123 pm Food, fun, and children’s games. Contact: Lisa Ferguson, (203) 772-1816, lisaf@towerone.org.

Tower One/Tower East, 18 Tower Ln., New Haven.

Grill n’ Chill Summer Music Series Wednesday, July 23, 5-8 pm Summer music series and Kosher BBQ. Contact: DeDe Jacobs-Komisar, (203) 3872522, dedek@jccnh.org. JCC Terrace, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

JCC Summer Splash Sunday, July 27, 11 am-4 pm Free outdoor swim and picnic for all ages!

Members only. Contact: Shelley Gans, 203387-2522, shelleyg@jccnh.org. JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

aug.

Grill n’ Chill Summer Music Series Wednesday, Aug. 6, 5-8 pm Summer music series and Kosher BBQ. Contact: DeDe Jacobs-Komisar, (203) 3872522, dedek@jccnh.org. JCC Terrace, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

Shabbat Friends Cooking Series (Ages 3-5) Friday, Aug. 8, 1-2 pm Contact: Laura Ross, (203) 387-2522, laurar@jccnh.org. JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

Bagels & Books (Ages 3-5) Sun, Aug. 10, 10:30-11:15 am RSVP: Laura LJ Ross, (203) 387-2522, laurar@ jccnh.org. JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

Pirke Avot Wednesday, Aug. 13, 11:15 am-12:15 pm Contact: Rabbi Hesch Sommer, (203) 389-5599, hsommer@jfsnh.org. JFGNH Shoreline Office, Lighthouse Square, 705 Boston Post Rd., Guilford.

Healing Power of Psalms Thursday, Aug. 14 & 28, 10-11 am Contact: Rabbi Hesch Sommer D.Min., (203) 389-5599, hsommer@jfsnh.org. JFGNH Shoreline Office, Lighthouse Sq., 705 Boston Post Rd., Guilford.

shalomnewhaven

snh

Experience Lifelong Learning

at Coachman Square

JOIN

US THIS

M AY

AND

JUNE

TO

LEARN, SHARE,

AND

GROW

Trips to Yale Events

Coachman Programs

Musical Entertainment

Guests are invited to join us for a complimentary meal before the events. Seating is limited.

Please RSVP. Time listed indicates departure time from Coachman Square at Woodbridge.

Dr. Bernie Siegel’s Care Giving Support Group Mind, Heart & Health Matters

Cellist, Thirzah Bendokas

Harmoniemesse

Yale Schola Cantorum Music of Haydn, Mozart and Mendelssohn

This group meets the 1st Wed. of the month and is for all caregivers, families, professionals & those who need care.

S ATURDAY, M AY 3 • 4 PM

W EDNESDAY M AY 7, J UNE 4 6:30 PM

Yale Baroque Ensemble M ONDAY, M AY 5 • 7 PM

Dr. Bernie Siegel’s Cancer Support Group

Lunchtime Chamber Music Wendy Sharp, Director

W EDNESDAY, M AY 7 • 11:30 AM Yale Art Gallery Tour W EDNESDAY, J UNE 18 • 12 PM

This group meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of the month. Contact Lucille Ranciato at Lranciato@yahoo.com or 203-288-2839, or Dr. Siegel at bugsyssiegel@sbcglobal.net for more details.

T UESDAY M AY 13 & 27, J UNE 10 & 24 • 6:30 PM

Cinema Magic Presentation

Michael Kerbel, Director of Film Study at Yale

S UNDAY, M AY 11 • 6:30 PM John Redgate

S UNDAY, M AY 25 • 1:30 PM Sophistication Duo

S ATURDAY, J UNE 7 • 1:30 PM Tom Sansone

S ATURDAY, J UNE 14 • 6:30 PM Yoga and Pilates with Carla T HURSDAY, M AY 1 & 15, J UNE 12 & 19 • 9:30 AM Tai Chi: Health and Balance F RIDAY, M AY 9 & 30, J UNE 13 & 27 • 1:30 PM Current Events from a Religious Perspective Rabbi Hesch Sommer, D. Min of Jewish Family Services, New Haven

S ATURDAY, M AY 17 • 1:30 PM

W EDNESDAY, M AY 7 & J UNE 11 2:00 PM

S ATURDAY, J UNE 21 • 1:30 PM

The Healing Power of Psalms

Film Talk: Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers Film Talk: The Wizard of Oz

All Programs are Free

Embrace Summer

Rabbi Hesch Sommer, D. Min

W EDNESDAY, M AY 21 & J UNE 25 2 PM

by bringing out the best you!

Seating is limited. Please RSVP at 203-397-7544 or email edcsw@benchmarkquality.com to reserve your seat

A Benchmark Senior Living Community

21 Bradley Road • Woodbridge, CT 06525

203-397-7544

www.benchmarkseniorliving.com

ASSISTED LIVING • MEMORY CARE

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770 Amity Road, Bethany, CT 203-393-0002