New Jewish Voice - December 2020-January 2021 by Jewish Link Marketing Solutions

A Gift For You, Courtesy of...

United Jewish Federation

December 2020 – January 2021 | Kislev-Tevet 5781

Volume 22, Number 15

The New Jewish Voice A PUBLICATION OF UNITED JEWISH FEDERATION

Recover, Recharge and Rejoice Chanukah Lights the Way to Annual Saul Cohen-Schoke JFS Lecture Series UJF’s Annual Meeting BY LYNN SALTZ Recognizing the challenges of these difficult times, Schoke Jewish Family Service will present the 9th Annual Saul Cohen-Schoke JFS Lecture as a series of three online presentations by prominent authors focusing on how to “recover, recharge and rejoice” while adapting to the new normal created by COVID-19. The lecture series is a gift, offered at no cost to the community, through the generosity of Mimi Cohen and Saul Cohen, of blessed memory. The series this year is co-sponsored by United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien; UJA/JCC Greenwich; and Federation for Jewish Philanthropy of Upper Fairfield County. The committee to organize the Saul Cohen-Schoke JFS Lecture is chaired by Michael and Betsy Stone. On Wednesday, January 13, 2021 at 7:30 pm, Jason B. Rosenthal, author of My Wife Said You May Want to Marry Me: A Memoir, will inaugurate the series and will speak about his recovery from the pain when his wife passed away from ovarian cancer. He was the subject of an essay published in the New York Times magazine section written by his wife, Amy Krouse

Candle Lighting

Jason Rosenthal, author

Rosenthal, called “You May Want to Marry My Husband”. That essay went viral and was read by millions worldwide. His response to Amy’s piece was published in 2018. He will talk about the issues related to processing grief and finding the path to hope and joy amongst the pain. The second lecture will take place on Wednesday, February 10, 2021 at 7:30 pm.

Bits & Pieces

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Superweek

(Courtesy of UJF) Celebrate the eighth and final night of Chanukah with our community as part of United Jewish Federation’s Annual Meeting. On Thursday, December 17th UJF will bring the community together via Zoom in celebration and song. Jill Kaplan and Nancy Mimoun will chair this event. The evening will begin at 7:30pm with a communal candle lighting and musical entertainment by composer/producer/artist Beth Styles. Each candle will be lit by a community leader, celebrating all the parts of the community that make it a wonderful place to live. In the midst of the COVID-10 pandemic, a message of hope and gratitude will be shared by guest speaker, Dr. Sherri Wise. Twenty-four years ago, while recuperating from a terrorist attack in Israel, Dr. Wise made a life changing decision. "When something traumatic happens, you have two choices," she said from her home in Vancouver. "Let it define you and prevent you from living your life or choose to move forward. I chose to move forward."

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Chanukah

20-21

Dr. Sherri Wise, guest speaker

Wise was volunteering as a dentist in Israel for three weeks in 1997. On her last day, she was at a café in Jerusalem when three Hamas suicide bombers attacked. Five people were killed and 190 were injured, including Wise. The former Winnipeg resident became a successful dentist and dedicated herself to

PJ Library

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Voices and Views

Learning Is Fun at Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy — Even with a Mask

(clockwise from top) 2nd graders: Nili Steinberg, Shlomo Licht, Alexander Siegel, Eva Tipermas — all 2nd-graders at Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy in Stamford enjoyed spending time together in their socially-distanced reading group.

2nd-grader Tyler Kaplan practices math using XtraMath on the iPad he and his classmates received from the school this year.

The New Jewish Voice

From UJF’s Chief Executive Officer

Under the Radar BY DIANE SLOYER Who we are and what we do is surprisingly under the radar for many. And I am a little stuck on how to impart all the good we do. I don’t know if you often read this message and other informational pieces in this newspaper? I don’t know if you regularly read our mailings or email blasts? But what I do know is that, United Jewish Federation is about Jewish community - both here and around the world. And yes, we do raise funds to support our local and overseas institutions by funding new initiatives that allow them to expand their reach and scope of services. But, there is so much more… Our communal initiatives impact each and every one of us. PJ Library sends close to 450 children in Stamford, New Canaan and Darien books

community, works on areas of conevery month. These cern and for example, has helped books, along with prosecure government funds for secugramming, impact rity equipment for our institutions, families each day. most recently the JCC. Alumni from our Life and Legacy, sponsored by Behrend Institute for UJF, has brought together 11 comLeadership serve on munity organizations and has enaagency and synagogue bled a commitment of over 140 legboards throughout our acy gifts to date, with an estimated community. four million dollars in after-life gifts Kuriansky Teen for our agencies and synagogues. graduates serve as COVID has resulted in Fedleaders on their college Diane Sloyer, UJF CEO eration increasing its community campuses and beyond. The New Jewish Voice provides a resource involvement. UJF implemented an emergenfor our entire community, is free of charge and cy campaign and provided about $170,000 in relief funds to our institutions. Through the efis read by over 10,000. The Jewish Community Relations Coun- forts of Jewish Federations of North America, cil, with representation from across the UJF convened the community to learn about

and apply for the Payroll Protection Plan Loans through the jewishtogether.org platform. Every organization successfully received their loans! Remember, when you’re giving a gift to United Jewish Federation, you are giving yourself an opportunity to feel good about yourself, about the community you believe in, and about the values you hold dear. But even more importantly, you’re showing people what goodness looks like. We can let despair, anger, selfishness and isolation rule us – or we can care for the people we love, build connections, and save the world. One person at a time. Lives will depend on us, communities will be built by us. People will be connected, inspired, fed, rescued, taught and loved because of the decision you make today. Live generously. It feels great!

UJF President’s Message

Becoming ‘We’ BY DAVID GORDON I am writing this column on Thursday, November 5, 2020, two days after our national elections. When you read this in a few weeks, we all will hopefully know who has won the Presidential election. But right now, the only thing that is clear is that we live in a very divided country at a very difficult time for our nation and for the Jewish people. Not only is our nation divided, but our community is divided. And somehow, we must find a way to move past this point in time and division and find a way to heal. In times such as these, it is useful to look for guidance from those who are wiser than ourselves, and so I wish to quote from

we must recover that sense of someone whom I believe shared morality that binds is one of the wisest people us to one another in a bond alive today – Rabbi Lord of mutual compassion and Jonathan Sacks*. In his recare. There is no liberty withcently released book entiout morality, no freedom tled “Morality”, Rabbi Sacks without responsibility, no viposits: able “I” without the sustainWhen we move from the ing “We.” politics of “Me” to the politics There is no doubt in my of “Us,” we rediscover those mind that Rabbi Sack’s polife-transforming, countersition applies to our Jewintuitive truths; that a nation is strong when it cares David Gordon, UJF President ish community as well as to our nation as a whole. for the weak, that it becomes rich when it cares for the poor, that it becomes To me, the sustaining “We” in our cominvulnerable when it cares about the vulnera- munity is our Federation, which I underble. If we care for the future of our democracy, stand to be all of you who are reading this

column. It is “We” that care for the weak, the poor and the vulnerable, and through our common bond of mutual compassion and care, it is “We” who will heal our community and move forward by understanding that we all rely on each other. At this time of healing, which also includes our national holiday of Thanksgiving, let us work together with a common cause and bond, and with compassion, care and thanksgiving. Please be kind to each other. Please be generous in your giving – in giving your compassion, in giving your thanks, and in giving your tzedakah. Thank you. *Editor’s note: Rabbi Sacks passed away on November 7, 2020.

Schoke JFS Jewish Summer 2021 Camp Scholarships Available (Courtesy of Schoke JFS) Schoke Jewish Family Service understands that many households, during the difficult time of the COVID-19 epidemic, are looking for assistance, in 2021, to send their children to a Jewish summer camp. Families are struggling

with unemployment or working from home and financial priorities are shifted to cover the essentials. Through the generosity of the Joan and Ben Zinbarg-Schoke JFS Camp Scholarship Program, as well as support from United

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DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien and the Federation of Jewish Philanthropy of Upper Fairfield County, financial assistance will be available for eligible families from the Greater Stamford and Upper Fairfield County areas who are looking for a rewarding Jewish summer experience for their children. An eligible child must be entering 1st grade in September 2021. Applications for assistance will be available beginning January 4, 2021 by calling Maria McNulty at 203-921-4161 or by email at mmcnulty@ctjjfs.org and must be returned by April 16, 2021. It is well documented that attendance at Jewish camps helps to strengthen youngsters’ Jewish identities and involvement in Jewish communities, now and into the future. Although fewer Jewish camps operated in summer 2020, as a result of the fund's generosity, twenty-three children were able to attend a Jewish day camp this past summer.

Anyone wishing to help support the Camp Scholarship Program, should contact Matt Greenberg, CEO of Schoke JFS, at 203921-4161 or email mgreenberg@ctjfs.org

CANDLE LIGHTING TIMES November 27 ��4:10 pm December 4 ��4:08 pm December 11 ��4:08 pm December 18 ��4:10 pm December 25 ��4:13 pm January 1 ��4:19 pm January 8 ��4:25 pm January 15 ��4:33 pm January 22 ��4:41 pm January 29 ��4:50 pm February 5 ��4:58 pm

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Harry Rosenbaum JHS Judaica Library is on the Move! BY ELISSA KAPLAN Did you know that The Harry Rosenbaum Jewish Historical Society Judaica Library has moved out of the Stamford JCC? We have relocated to enable the Jewish Community Center to utilize the space previously occupied by the front offices and our Library to house a pre-school and multi-purpose rooms within their building. Thanks to the generosity of the Freedman family and Garden Homes Management Corporation, our Library is now temporarily housed in the lobby of the State Cinema. In 1981, when the JCC began operations on Newfield Avenue, the Library was opened under the auspices of the JCC. It was officially dedicated in 1983 for JHS to operate. Over the last 40 years, we grew to a library of over 4,000 volumes. We received the Joseph Miller Holocaust Collection, we welcomed a Hebrew book collection, we went visual with a DVD collection, and we have increasingly updated our use of technology. The JHS

Library is accessible through the Ferguson Library website, offering titles not in their collection. What was that grand opening experience like four decades ago? Barbara Rosett, JHS volunteer and Chair of the Library shared: “Let’s put on our time travel hats and go back to Tuesday evening, November 9, 1983 when the Library was officially dedicated at the JCC. Harry Rosenbaum cut the ribbon, Rabbi Joseph Ehrenkranz spoke, calling Harry Rosenbaum ‘the Number One Jewish Citizen of the Community.’ Which indeed he was! Mark Sternlicht, Chairman of the Holocaust Memorial Committee of B’nai B’rith said there were about 500 volumes in the Library, 300 of which were given by that committee. Volunteers had worked feverishly to get them on the shelves before the official opening. The speaker was William Donat, a Holocaust survivor and then Chairman of the Advisory Board to the New York City Holocaust Library. It was the 45th anniversary of Kristallnacht, Nov

9-10, 1938. Joseph Miller, Vice Chair and co-founder of the Holocaust Memorial Committee, said his group had helped make the Library a reality.” What is the present status of the Library? As the largest Judaica library in the state of Connecticut, we are here to serve you by providing a resource for the Jewish and non-Jewish communities of Fairfield County for study, leisure, pleasure, research, and enrichment. The Joseph Miller Holocaust Collection includes 40 Yizkor Books commemorating individual towns and cities destroyed by the Nazis and their collaborators. What is the future of the Library? Speaking for JHSFC as President, I say, “We have an exciting opportunity to reimagine our library in new and meaningful ways. We can create a Holocaust education resource center, we can house special collections, we can showcase pieces of our Archival collections, and we can provide virtual tours for schools, synagogues, and community groups. Everything is

UJF Jewish Community Relations Council Plans for the New Year (Courtesy of UJF) The Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) is the public affairs arm of United Jewish Federation. The JCRC is chaired by UJF board member Peter Lilienthal and has a committee representing all facets of the diverse community. Its mission is to represent the interests of the Stamford, New Canaan and Darien Jewish communities to public officials and agencies, the media and the wider community. The JCRC works by convening and mobilizing the Jewish community, building relationships, and engaging in non-partisan work focused on education, advocacy, social justice, communal security, support for Israel and combating anti-Semitism. On January 10, 2021 at 10:00 am, the JCRC and the Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield County will co-sponsor a program, “The History of Anti-Semitism,” presented by Steve Goldberg. This program will be virtual and held on Zoom. Please register at ujf.org/goldberg

Steve Goldberg is Co-Director of the Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center (Westchester) and Interim Principal of New Rochelle High School. In his role with the HHREC, he has developed Holocaust curriculum, conducted workshops and seminars for teachers on a wide range of curricular and pedagogical topics, and oversees the Center’s library. He has organized biennial educational missions for Lower Hudson and Fairfield County educators to Germany and Poland. Steve taught modern world history courses and served as social studies department chairman for the City School District of New Rochelle for thirty years, retiring in 2017. He is past president of both the National Council for the Social Studies and New York State Council for the Social Studies. The JCRC was very active during the election period and hosted candidate forums with both sides represented. JCRC also held an

Senator Richard Blumenthal virtually presents a certificate of recognition to the family of Odd Nansen.

Speaker Steve Goldberg.

impactful session on diversity within the Jewish community. CONTINUED ON PAGE 22

possible!” We plan to find a new suitable location to serve the entire community. When we are settled, circulation will again be available. How can you help? Do you love books and libraries? Do you want to get involved in a humongous library revitalization project? We need practical workers to clear out some of our donated collection through tag sales, giveaways, and contributions to schools and other libraries. We are recruiting strategic thinkers to help us plan a 21st century library based on best library practices and the most effective use of technology. For more information or to volunteer, contact The Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield County by phone at the Archives: 203359-2196, by email: info@jhsfc-ct.org, or on-line: http://jhsfc-ct.org/.

DEADLINE FOR ARTICLES The deadlines for the next issues of The New Jewish Voice are: February/March: January 4 April/Passover: March 1

Send New Jewish Voice article submissions to Sandy Golove at sandy@ujf.org marked “Stamford Voice” in the subject line. Expect an acknowledgement; please re-send if you do not receive one.

*7 TFEBUJPO GPS IJHI GFBS TQFDJBM OFFET DIJMESFO

DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

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Chanukah Lights the Way to UJF’s Annual Meeting CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

helping victims of terrorism through the Canadian Coalition Against Terrorism. “Her presentation, entitled Survival and Forgiveness: A Story of Optimism and Hope, has an important message, especially now”, shared UJF CEO Diane Sloyer. “Although Dr. Wise’s experience is unique, the decision she made to move forward can be experienced by anyone who has had trauma in their life... every person has a choice to make every single day”, continued Sloyer. Also at the Annual Meeting, this year’s Harvey A. Peltz Young Leadership Award will

The New Jewish Voice “The New Jewish Voice” (USPS #184) is published by the United Jewish Federation Inc. 1035 Newfield Ave., Stamford, CT 06905-2521.

Proposed Board for 2021:

be presented to Robin Fischel. Robin serves on the UJF board and has just served as cochair of Super Sunday. She is a graduate of the Behrend Institute for Leadership and serves on the Friendship Circle board. Robin lives in Stamford with her husband and two children who love PJ Library books. Ricky Arbron, UJF past president and chair of the UJF Nominating Committee, will present the proposed UJF board slate for 2021 for ratification by the community. (see insert for full slate). “Linda Gornitsky, Lorraine Kweskin, Peter Lilienthal, Nancy Mimoun, and Shari Raymond will be leaving the UJF board. We look forward to thanking them for their many years of service and are confident they will stay involved and connected,” said UJF President David Gordon. UJF President David Gordon and UJF CEO Diane Sloyer will deliver brief remarks and community updates, and several volunteers will be recognized for their service.

New Directors Terms ending 12/31/22 Ami Soifer Beverly Stein Jessica Batkin Linda Hurwitz Susan Kostin

Robin Fischel, recipient of the Harvey A. Peltz Leadership Award.

Renewed Terms expiring 12/31/22 Robin Fischel Nan Gordon Jill Kaplan Tara Shapiro Sherry Steiner

This event is free of charge and open to the community, however registration is required. For a donation of $36 or more towards the evening, you can receive a Chanukah gift bag with latkes and other Chanukah treats delivered to your home. Sponsorships of $180 will be

Returning Directors Terms expiring 12/31/21 David Gordon Caryn Halbrecht Leon Hanna Rachel Klein Rhonda Schaeffer Maron Dinah Miller-Marlowe Jonathan Ostroff Arlene Rosen Edith Samers Michael Schlessinger Greg Waldstreicher Immediate Past Presidents Ricky Arbron Ellen Weber

recognized and will help defray the cost of the event. Please register at www.ujf.org/annualmeeting2020. For more information contact Diane Sloyer at dianesloyer@ujf.org or call (203) 321-1373/105

www.ujf.org for updates and donations David Gordon........................................... President Diane Sloyer.................................................... CEO Advisory Committee Meryl Gordon................................................. Chair Meryl Japha, Nancy Schulman, Ellen Weber Jewish Link Media Group The Jewish Link Media Group edits and publishes The New Jewish Voice. Moshe Kinderlehrer.................................... Publisher Adam Negnewitzky....................... Design & Layout Jill Kirsch...............................................Proofreader Gila Negnewitzky................................. Bookkeeper Risa Lefkowitz...............Advertising Representative Opinions The views expressed in editorials and opinion pieces are those of each author and not necessarily the views of the United Jewish Federation. Letters The New Jewish Voice welcomes letters on subjects of interest to the Jewish community. All letters must be signed and include a phone number. The editor may withhold the name upon request. Kashruth We are not responsible for the Kashruth of any advertiser’s product or establishment. HOW TO REACH THE EDITOR: Mail: Sandy Golove 1035 Newfield Ave. - Suite 200 Stamford, CT 06905-2521 E-mail: sandy@ujf.org Phone: (203) 912-9945 Send article submissions via e-mail to Sandy Golove at sandy@ujf.org marked “Stamford Voice” in the subject line. Expect an acknowledgement; please re-send if you do not receive one. HOW TO REACH THE ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE: DIANE SLOYER Phone: (203) 321-1373, ext. 105 E-mail: dianesloyer@ujf.org SUBSCRIPTION INFORMATION: Phone: (203) 321-1373 E-mail: sandy@ujf.org

Recover, Recharge and Rejoice CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Tiffany Shlain, Emmy-nominated filmmaker and author of 24/6: The Power of Unplugging One Day A Week, will speak about the power of recovery once a week, on Shabbat. She will discuss her “Tech Shabbat” which focuses on regaining your inner calm and connection to people instead of screens. On Tuesday, April 27, 2021 at 7:30 pm, Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar, co-founder of the Happiness Studies Academy, will be the keynote and final speaker for the three-part series. Dr. Ben-Shahar will talk about how to achieve happiness and rejoice in life when the circumstances are challenging. After

graduating from Harvard with a BA in Philosophy and Psychology, and a PhD in Organizational Behavior, he taught two of the most popular courses in Harvard’s history: Positive Psychology and The Psychology of Leadership. Ben-Shahar also taught Happiness Studies at Columbia University. He is an international, best-selling author whose books have been translated into more than 25 Tiffany Shlain Dr. Tal Ben-Shahar languages. For details about this program, please register and for more details about this year’s contact Matt Greenberg at 203-921-4161 lecture series format. Lynn Saltz is Schoke JFS Marketing and or email at mgreenberg@ctjfs.org. Please visit www.ctjfs.org/saul-cohen-jfs-lecture to Communications Coordinator.

Community Provides for Those in Need (Courtesy of Schoke JFS) Schoke Jewish Family Service held its annual Thanksgiving event and distributed turkeys and all the fixings to clients of the Freedberg Family Kosher Food Pantry in all seventeen towns it serves. The 2020 event was chaired by Liz Kitay, Risa Goldblum in Stamford and Stacy Kamisar in upper Fairfield County. Once again, as in the past seven years, Foodtown Supermarket donated the shelf-stable items traditional for the Thanksgiving feast and HL Rich & Sons Moving Services donated their moving services in order to transport heavy food items from donation sites to the JFS pantry. The Food Bank of Lower Fairfield County and Connecticut Food Bank provided the turkeys and

DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

Beldotti Bakery donated dessert. JFS served approximately 245 households with turkeys and prepared turkey meals to clients in upper and lower Fairfield County, including 115 Anachnu Holocaust survivors. Jewish Senior Services prepared the meals for the Anachnu Holocaust survivors. Additional community support included Congregation Agudath Sholom who held a two-day food collection in support of the program and Chabad of Stamford who provided handmade greeting cards. Schoke JFS was grateful for the support of the many volunteers and drivers throughout the greater Stamford community, as well as the greater Bridgeport area, Merkaz and Congregation Beth El of Norwalk.

Foodtown Supermarket donates food for Schoke JFS Thanksgiving event.

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The New Jewish Voice

Bi-Cultural Students Rock the Vote!

The JCC Sara Walker Nursery School parents enjoyed their Trivia Night on Saturday, October 17. (CREDIT: ANNE LISS JOHNSON)

Connecting with JCC Young Families, Virtually! The parents of the JCC Sara Walker Nursery School and KinderPlace programs enjoyed a night of fun and trivia, while enjoying premade goodie bags.

(Courtesy of BCHA) Teaching students the importance of participating in our democracy by voting in our elections is a fundamental part of educating younger generations and helping them to become responsible, better informed, civic-minded adults. And so, as the Presidential election grew near, Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy 5th-grade teacher Mrs. Rosenblum gave students a lesson in the election process — and then empowered them to become good citizens by staging a Fifth-graders Jack Steinberg and Molly Wirgin voting simulation right there in her voted for President in their classroom at Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy. classroom.

Winter Night with Chabad of Stamford (Courtesy of Chabad of Stamford) Please join Gan Yeladim and Chabad of Stamford for a special “Havdalah in PJs” on Saturday, January 9th at 6:00 pm. This popular family favorite may be going online this winter, but all the usual fun will still be included. Families who pre-register

will be able to pick up their own Havdalah kits which will include s’mores kits, hot chocolate, candles and more. Families can Zoom in to celebrate and sing together from the comfort of their own homes. For more information, email programs@stamfordchabad.org.

KinderPlace’s Trivia Night on Saturday, November 7. (CREDIT: LIZ GEBERT)

Chabad of Stamford’s Annual Gala Goes Virtual (Courtesy of Chabad of Stamford) With the health and safety of the community as its number one priority, Chabad of Stamford has made the decision to go virtual for its annual Gala this January. With almost 400 in attendance at the Stamford Hilton last December, Chabad celebrated its honorees with the theme of kindness, caring and community. This year has shown how appropriate this theme continues

to be as Chabad, Stamford and the world transitioned to a new reality. As Chabad has shifted to COVID times, it is promising not to compromise on programming or safety, with an entertaining and meaningful evening that will honor its volunteers and community. The Gala will be held after Shabbat on Saturday, January 23rd at 8:00pm. For more information please email programs@stamfordchabad.org DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

The New Jewish Voice

COMMUNITY NEWS

Bits & Pieces Rabbi Elie Darmon and Lianne & Theo Heller. Marcy & Marc Kurzman on the birth of a granddaughter, Olivia James Kurzman. Judy Liebeskind on the birth of MAZEL TOV TO GROWING FAMILIES: a great-granddaughter, Noa Isabelle Fedewa. Shana Attar & Tamer Moira Morrissey & Mark Slivka Mangoubi on the birth of on the birth of a granddaughter, a son; and to grandparents, Sandy Golove Rowan Ava Krebs. Rochel & Hecky Attar and to Sara Malka & Avi Petrushka on the birth great grandmother, Yospa Lieberman. Eve & Daniel Block on the birth of a son, of a son; and to grandparents Diane & Rabbi Daniel Cohen. Abraham Bradley Block. Rachel & Richard Priem on the birth of Barbara & Gary Bloom on the birth of a a son, Isaac Jake Priem; and to grandparents grandson, Owen William Bloom. Andrea & David Cohen on the birth of a Betsy & Kevan Herald. Veronica Reich on the birth of a grandson, grandson, Abraham Bradley Block. Lenore & Michael Cooper on the birth of Evan Benjamin Mandell. Chaya & Rabbi Matityahu Shochet on a grandson, Jonah Douglas Cooper. Joelle & Emani Fenton on the birth of a son; the birth of a daughter; and to grandparents and to grandmother Terri Lowenthal and great Judy & Jeff Cahn. Stephanie & Tamir Sugarman on the grandparents, Eleanor & Mort Lowenthal. Lori & Sam Gressel on the birth of a birth of a daughter; and to grandmother Helen Felder. daughter. Heather & Ben Susman on the birth of a Dena & Shauli Friedman on the birth a son, Shmuel Zelig Friedman; and to great daughter, Meira Adele Susman. Shelley Taylor & David Swerdloff on grandmother Sheila Cohen. Dani & Josh Green on the birth of a son, the birth of a granddaughter, Alize Rose Charles Rex Green; and to grandparents Paula Remlin. Eve & Charlie Taben on the birth of a & Ben Green. Dana & Jason Greenman on the birth of a grandson, Charles Everett Conlee. Fraida & Rabbi Binyomin Warmflash daughter, Zoe Maya Greenman; and to grandparents Denise & Dave Greenman and Ilene on the birth of a son; and to grandparents & Bert Madwed; and to great grandmothers Sara & Yerachmiel Glasner and Doris & Lona Kessler, Phyllis Kirschner and Miriam Ron Warmflash; and to great-grandmother, Camille Warmflash. Madwed. Eva Weller on the birth of her grandson, Mouchka & Dov Heller on the birth of a daughter; and to grandparents Eva & Theodore (Teddy) Joseph Swedock. BY SANDY GOLOVE To submit information, please call (203) 912-9945 or email sandy@ujf.org

Dancing with the Torah in the Park (Courtesy of Chabad of Stamford) Families from Chabad of Stamford joined together with families from Congregation Agudath Sholom and Young Israel this year for a special celebration of Simchat Torah in Barrett Park. Over 60 families attended the kids Hakafot (Circling) in the Park with each

family receiving their own gift bag which included snacks, an edible “Torah” and games. Families were able to safely enjoy the learning, dancing, bingo game and much more as each family spaced out in the park on their own blanket to enjoy the holiday celebrations in a safe and novel way.

Rabbi Moshe and Morah Leah prepare to lead the Gan Yeladim Torah Parade.

DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

Margaret & Ian Wishingrad on the birth of a son Jonah Alexander Wishingrad; and to great- grandparents, Vivian & Don Wishingrad. Helene Zimmerman on the birth of a great-grandson. MAZEL TOV ON ENGAGEMENTS & MARRIAGES:

David Bessaleli on the engagement of his grandson, Ezra Jasper to Or-ya Buskila. Michal & Claude Devillers on the engagement of their daughter and stepdaughter, Olivia Devillers to Andy Shapell. Liz & Bill Gilbert on the marriage of their daughter Laura Gilbert to Joseph Kastenbaum. Randie Katz & Larry Cryer on the marriage of their daughter, Sarah Cryer to Zachary Shapiro. Heidi & Harrison Ganz on the engagement of their son, Evan Ganz to Ashley Sheridan. Nancy & Jerry Kapchan on the engagement of their son, Zachary Kapchan to Kayla Weinstein. Wendy & David Lewis on the engagement of their daughter, Alex Lewis to Michael Tringali. Bracha Rapaport on the engagement of her son, Menachem Rapaport to Gila Bard-Widgor. Roz & Mitch Rubin on the engagement of their daughter, Keren to David Stempsey. Fran Schechter on the engagement of her daughter, Leah Schechter to Adam Spiewak. Fran Schechter on the engagement of her daughter, Sarah Schechter to Gerry Tiernan. Rosalie & Gary Stone on the marriage of their daughter, Sami Stone to David Schwab. Cathy & Steve Zales on the engagement of their son, Greg Zales to Mackenzie Garrity. MAZAL TOV TO

Rachel & Jay Jubas on making aliyah. Rabbi Benjamin Spratt, husband of Cantor Micah Morgovsky of Temple Sinai on his appointment as Senior Rabbi at Rodeph Sholom in New York City. MAZEL TOV TO B’NAI MITZVAH:

Richard Baer, son of Beth & Raymond Baer; and to grandparents Betty & Sherwin Baer. Alexander Cohen, son of Sherry and Kenneth Cohen. Cassandra Cronk, daughter of Sheri & Steve Cronk. Jack Diamond, son of Liz & Seth Diamond. Lyla Dynner, daughter of Heather & Glenn Dynner. Brody Ebright, son of Deena & Michael Ebright.Austin Eisenstein, son of Debbie Eisenstein and Jon Eisenstein. Aaron Friedman, son of Rachel & Keith Friedman. Ilana Gilbert, daughter of Lori & Ralph Gilbert. Zachary Goldberg, son of Deidre & Jonathan Goldberg. Sydney Grunberg, daughter of Reina & Michael Grunberg.

Emma Hannum, daughter of Julie & Jason Hannum. Brendon Harmon, son of Stacey & William Harmon. Benjamin Herman, son of Jackie & David Herman. Olivia Herman, daughter of Jackie & David Herman. Owen Herz, son of Nancy & Jeffrey Herz. Sydney Kassel, daughter of Caroline & Matthew Kassel. Camryn Laichtman, daughter of Ellen & Arthur Laichtman. Marley Leslie, son of Rachel & Armel Leslie. Chloe Last, daughter of Lisa & Douglas Last. Liz Lebo, daughter of Lily & Robert Lebo. Todd Lebo, son of Lily & Robert Lebo Samantha Neer, daughter of Amy & Jason Neer. Matthew Silver, son of Anna & Steven Silver. Chloe Simner, daughter of Sarah & Daniel Simner. Zachary Schnelwar, son of Shulie Schnelwar and Andrew Schnelwar; and to grandparents Vivian Weiss and Howard Weiss. Maya Shapiro, daughter of Danielle & Lael Shapiro. WE MOURN THE LOSS OF:

Helen Banschick Rachil Chalik: mother of Elena Kalman. Shirley Dennis: mother of Bruce Dennis. Roberta Engel: wife of Murray Engel. George Essenfeld: father of Ellen Essenfeld Centanni, Amy Essenfeld Temple and Eliot Essenfeld; and significant other Audrey Michaels. Burt Hoffman: husband of Carol Hoffman. Leonard Goldberg: brother of Miriam Gelb. Amalia Hanit: mother of Yaffa Gross. Sheila Reiter Heller: mother of Bruce Heller. James Lewis Hurwitz: brother of Linda Hurwitz. Janene Isolda: mother of Paul Isolda. Sheldon Kadish: father of Michael Kadish. Mark Mehlman: son of Gloria Mehlman. Herminia Mendel: mother of Ivy Schildkraut. Corrine Neufeld: mother of Audrey Tesser and Cindy Wein; and grandmother of Jeremy Lucksberg. Lawrence C. Nussdorf: brother of Ellie Mirne. Carolyn Kraus Rich: mother of Harry Rich. May Rolle: mother of Rabbi Liz Rolle. Paul Martin Ross: brother of Joan Ross. Judith Rothstein: mother of Lisa Rothstein. Jeffrey Shapes: father of Lee Shapes and Joanna Zaner. Claire Stanger: mother of Hope Stanger. Howard Tichauer: father of Lisa Rich. Florence Wagner: mother of Debbie Gershon. Ida Wallach: mother of Loralee Granowitz.

This Holiday Season, United Jewish Federation Is Thankful For You! Because of You UJF has united our community throughout this difficult year! Because of You UJF has raised and distributed over $170,000 for Covid emergency relief! Because of You UJF ensures the future of our community with over $4,000,000 pledged so far to 11 organizations through the Harold Grinspoon Life

Because of You UJF develops teen leaders through the Kuriansky Teen Tzedakah program! Because of You UJF sends almost 450 children free PJ Library books monthly! Because of You UJF hosts the Behrend and Legacy program!

Institute for Leadership resulting in alumni serving on agency and synagogue boards

Because of You UJF connects the community through its New Jewish Voice newspaper. Because of You UJF has contributed throughout our community!

to bringing an additional 2,000 Ethiopians home to Israel, uniting them with family, some after over 20 years of separation!

Because of You UJF aided 13 community

organizations to successfully obtain Payroll Protection Plan loans through the Jewish

Federation of North America(JFNA) jewishtogether.org platform. Because

of You

UJF, through its Jewish Community Relations Council, addresses and resolves important issues, that impact the community, like security.

Because of You UJF welcomes

all new families and babies to our growing community, totaling over 100 visits just this year!

Your Donation to Federation makes this and so much more happen! *Give a gift on or before December 31 and all new gifts and increases from last year will be matched by JFNA 50 cents on every dollar!*

DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

COMMUNITY NEWS

The New Jewish Voice

Heather Susman and her baby daughter receive an outdoor Shalom Baby visit from UJF’s Sharon Franklin.

Newcomers Nava Jacknis, her husband Natanel, and their daughter receive their “Shalom Welcome” gift bag.

Josh and Jennie Small and their sons are welcomed with a gift bag.

UJF Welcomes Newcomers and Babies (Courtesy of UJF) The influx of families moving to the area continues! Newcomers are welcomed with a United Jewish Federation “Shalom Welcome” gift bag and a socially-distanced visit, so they can learn about the area and the local Jewish community. Bags include coupons, wine,

Judaica and literature to help get them settled. UJF also offers families with new babies a visit to welcome the newest addition to their families with a “Shalom Baby” gift bag, filled with toys, bibs, PJ Library books and helpful information.

Newcomers with young children and new parents can be matched with a UJF PJ Library Parent Ambassador, who welcomes them personally and invites them to join their group of young families, including a baby group. The four groups meet socially-distanced outdoors or virtually. It is a wonderful

way for someone new to meet friends right away, especially during these unusual times. If you know of someone new to town, or a family with a new baby, please contact Sharon Franklin at sharon@ujf.org. All visits are done with safety in mind - outdoors, masked and socially distanced.

Friendship Circle Has Lasting Virtual Film Impact on Volunteers Festival! (Courtesy of Friendship Circle) Rose Sibboni and Rachael Roizer were recently recognized by the Friendship Circle as “Volunteer of the Week”. Rose is a Senior at New Canaan High School and has been a volunteer for the Friendship Circle for over seven years. Rachael, a junior at Greenwich High School, is also the creator of exploreneuro.com, a website inspired by a combination of Rachael's volunteering with the Friendship Circle, as well as her own experience with epilepsy. Each girl has been impacted Rose Sibboni with Isla Harsburgh by volunteering for the Friendship Circle. Rose said "The values that I learn from FC have impacted my life incredibly. I am going to be studying elementary education with a minor in special education. It is what I am most passionate about, thanks to Friendship Circle..." Rachael said "The patience I've developed helps me in any school or work environment; the compassion I've strengthened helps me build better, more understanding relationships; the creativity I've enhanced helps me with problem solving and other difficult tasks." Rachael Roizer with Chana Goldstein DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

The 19th Season of the Jewish Film Festival of Fairfield County goes virtual with great success, accessing speakers from around the world for discussions rich in content and depth. The six-week festival featured award-winning films, such as The Keeper, Box for Life, Crescen- Jewish Film Festival Q&A for the film, Shared do, When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit and Legacies with Rev. Dr. Michael G. Christie, Sherry Frank and Dov Wilker. (CREDIT: NANCY SCHIFFMAN) more!

Jewish Film Festival Q&A for the film, Crescendo with Prof. Mohammed S. Dajani Daoudi, Col. (res.) Grisha Yacoubovich and Lt. Col. (res.) Avital Leibovich. (CREDIT: NANCY SCHIFFMAN)

COMMUNITY NEWS

Stay in Shape with The Stamford JCC! The Center for Health & Wellness at The Stamford JCC provides its members an array of offerings to help them de-stress, keep a clear mind and stay active. Group exercise classes and personal training are offered both in-person and virtually. Racquetball and tennis courts, lap swimming, family

swim, pickleball and private spaces to work out with a friend are offered with suggested reservations. And the fitness center, outside walking path, indoor track and outdoor playground are all open for JCC members. Interested in membership? Email membership@stamfordjcc.org.

In-person group exercise classes at The JCC are fully equipped with masks, social distancing and fun! (CREDIT: LAUREN FEIN)

The New Jewish Voice

Schoke JFS Provides Comfort and Care for Thanksgiving (Courtesy of Schoke JFS) For the second year, Schoke Jewish Family Service has provided approximately 245 households with not only Thanksgiving food but much needed comfort and care items. The Freedberg Family Kosher Food Pantry Comfort and Care Collection Program for Thanksgiving 2020 distributed items to families needing assistance in upper and lower Fairfield County. Backpacks were filled with full-size body wash, liquid hand soap, toothpaste, dental floss, deodorant, hand sanitizer/sanitiz- (l-r) Christopher M. Farrugio and Sahara Elaine er wipes and brushes/combs. In Farrugio, General Manager and Funeral Director of a community effort, organiza- Dignity Funeral Homes/Leo P. Gallagher & Sons are tions throughout Fairfield Coun- pictured alongside their personal care donations with ty came together to make this col- Lisa Rich, Development Director at Schoke JFS. lection possible, including: JCC, Sara Walker also contributed items and donated to this Nursery School, Temple Sinai, Temple Beth event: Meryl and Ron Japha, Dignity FunerEl, Chabad, BBYO, Young Israel of Stam- al Homes/Leo P. Gallagher & Sons, Liz and ford, Congregation Agudath Sholom, Green- Marc Kitay, Adele and Rob Goldsmith, Jeffrey wich Reform Synagogue, Congregation Beth and Jonathan Rich, Lisa and Harry Rich and El Norwalk and Nitzan Nursery School, Fed- Jeri and Mark Appel. The project was chaired by Liz Kitay and eration for Jewish Philanthropy, B'nai Torah Trumbull and Merkaz. The following have Meryl Japha.

AL ED iors N IO R en an OT FFE for s ave OM G O e h d! PR CIN d tim who nee I e s e PR limit ilie diat

m e r a d fa mm o f an i

welcome to the Cannondale Campus The same recipe that has earned the trust of our community for 30 years, remains our commitment and, as businesses nationwide begin their gradual re-opening, our Cannondale Campus has emerged with it’s singularly successful recipe intact. With a 5-star culture and commitment to integrity, compassion and quality, we are now setting the standard for care and welcoming new clients during this challenging time. The Cannondale approach to health, well-being and creating a joyful environment remain second to none. Be it our “Peace of Mind” move in process or our wellness initiatives to manage chronic conditions, we encourage you to contact us if you or someone you know is in need of senior living.

Call now for availability 203.761.1191

Our “Peace of Mind” Process includes three simple steps: 1

New residents must receive a Covid-19 test prior to move in. Move-in date must be within 72 hours of negative test results.

New Residents will receive a 14 day “Peace of Mind” Stay and receive added care and concierge services at no extra charge.

All residents receive daily temperature and Oxygen level checks. Wellness visits from health specialists to ensure optimal balance, strength, nutrition and well-being are provided to give “Peace of Mind “ to all our residents.

“My Mother is so fortunate to be in your care. Thank you to every single person who leaves home each day and goes to work at The Greens in this unprecedented pandemic. I know your family and friends are concerned for you, and those of us in the wider Greens community are too. I am enormously grateful for your dedication and commitment.” — Gratefully, Sally L (Greens Family Member)

DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

SUPER WEEK ROUNDUP

The New Jewish Voice

An Evening of Music

Gladys Delman Teitel

Diversity in the Jewish Community Rabbi Isaiah Rothstein, Rabbinic Scholar and Public Affairs Advisor at Jewish Federations of North America and Stamford local, and Gladys Delman Teitel, led an informative session on the need for more awareness of the diversity within the Jewish community. UJF’s Jewish Community Relations Council brought this session to Superweek.

Rabbi Isaiah Rothstein

Russian violinist Pavel Ilyashov entertained his Zoom audience with his heartfelt music and moving story of life in Russia before he and his family were assisted in moving to the U.S. by the Jewish Federation of Saint Louis. United Jewish Federation of Stamford, New Canaan Russian violinist Pavel Ilyashov. and Darien participated in this effort as well, raising money for and working with Schoke Jewish Family Service on the resettlement of many Russian families.

Adam Frapart and his daughter, of Darien, receive goodies from UJF for being a sponsor of the UJF Mixology and Trivia Night program as well as a shabbat gift bag as part of the UJF Shabbat community L’Chaim.

Community L’Chaim!

Saturday Night In Ashley from Fancy Sips, led participants in making two fun cocktails, an apple cider mule and cozy cocoa, both with a non-alcoholic option Carolos from Big Pop Productions tested everyone’s trivia skills and knowledge of pop culture. Allison and Jonathan Ostroff emerged victorious!

Global Jewish Update from the Jewish Agency Ronen Weiss of the Jewish Agency for Israel (JAFI) shared an update on the Jewish communities of South Africa, Argentina, Venezuela, and France, and the newly emerging Jewish Community in the United Arab Emirates. Topics included Aliyah, Anti-Semitism and the work of Jewish Agency Shlichim. Pnina Falego Agenyahu, also of JAFI, focused on the family reunification efforts to bring 2,000 Ethiopians home to Israel. Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, the Jewish Agency continues to assist Jewish communities worldwide and has launched the operation to bring a portion of the remaining Jews out of Ethiopia.

Community members came together on Zoom to welcome Shabbat with words from community leaders and a toast to our wonderful community.

Super Week Sponsors 2020 GOLD SPONSOR

SILVER SPONSORS

Caroline Simmons Sun Hill M.T. Jonathan & Allison Ostroff Ellen & Richard Weber DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

BRONZE SPONSORS Taly & Trevor Farber & Family Robin & Jason Fischel Krista’s Hair Salon Peter & Carol Lilienthal Edith Samers in honor of Bernard Samers Hillary & Bob Zitter in honor of Jackie Herman

ADDITIONAL SPONSORS Beldotti Bakery Bevmax Stop & Shop

SUPER WEEK ROUNDUP A Successful Super Week Reaches Hundreds (Courtesy of UJF) Each year United Jewish Federation holds Super Sunday, a day filled with community events, including a family fun day, and an opportunity for community volunteers to contact neighbors to raise funds for UJF’s Annual Campaign. This year, due to the Covid restrictions, co-chairs Allison and Jonathan Ostroff and Robin and Jason Fischel decided to become creative and redesign the traditionally one-day event. This past November, Super Sunday became Super Week! Though daily educational and

social online and socially distanced in-person programs, Super Week reached close to 500 community members. “I was so proud to see our community coming together as one during Super Week”, said Ellen Weber, Campaign Chair. “We had volunteers calling donors, writing letters, delivering packages, all together as one wonderful team. During Super Week we reached hundreds of homes with the events and then raised almost $150,000 towards our campaign. And we are so thankful that Jewish Federations of North America

has made available a match to UJF which incentivizes new and increased gifts.” Donations to United Jewish Federation’s Annual Campaign support UJF’s ongoing programs and initiatives that build and strengthen the Jewish community, provide grants to programs of local Jewish agencies and synagogues, and allow donors to direct their gifts to those programs that interest them, if they choose. For more information, please contact Diane Sloyer, UJF CEO, at dianesloyer@ujf.org or call (203) 321-1373, ext. 105.

The New Jewish Voice

Thank you, Super Sunday Volunteers! Stella Cohen Shoshana Dweck Michael Feldstein Robin Fischel David Fogel Allan Freeman Michael Gold Nan Gordon David Gordon Paul Gordon Linda Gornitsky Matt Greenberg Caryn Halbrecht Jill Kaplan Lorraine Kweskin

Peter Lilienthal Nancy Mimoun Bruce Newman Allison Ostroff Jonathan Ostroff Susan Plutzer Shari Raymond Catherine Reed Arlene Rosen Edith Samers Rhonda Schaffer Maron Michael Schlesinger Tara Shapiro Eliezer Silverman Beverly Stein

David Stein Sherry Steiner Mark Wagshul Ellen Weber Malerie Yolen-Cohen

Super Sunday Volunteers

Stella Cohen, an annual volunteer, calls donors. Matt Greenberg, CEO, Schoke Jewish Family Service, lends a hand.

It’s a family affair on Super Sunday for Beverly and David Stein.

Diane Sloyer, UJF’s CEO is proud to rock a Lion of Judah mask while making calls.

Peter Lilienthal, chair UJF’s Jewish Community Relations Council, reaches out to donors.

Nancy Mimoun, past UJF President and board member, gets in the spirit. David Fogel, past UJF board member, stops by to pick up pledge cards.

Malerie Yolen-Cohen hits the phones on UJF’s Super Sunday.

Ellen Weber, Annual Campaign Chair, works the phones on Super Sunday.

DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

Where it is Needed Most

The Infrastructure of UJF

Let UJF decide which of the programs on this menu your dollars will support. Your generosity will ensure that UJF continues to impact, support and strengthen our Jewish community and beyond.

Help keep the UJF engine running so it can continue to provide all the educational and local community-building activities which strengthen our community and enhance our connections to Israel and World Jewry.

Israel Our collective Jewish comunities helped fund the founding of the State of Israel. Today, because of our partnerships with the Jewish Agency for Israel, the American Joint Distribution Committee and World ORT, UJF continues to provide social services to those Israelis in need and helps strengthen education and opportunities for immigrants and those on the periphery.

Communal Security The global and local Jewish community faces a growing threat of hatred and anti-Semitism. Money raised for communal security will support local efforts to help offset every increasing need of securing our Jewish community. Our community will continue to work with and benefit from The Secure Community Network (SCN), the official homeland security and safety initiative of the organized Jewish community in North America.

Jewish Community Relations Council The JCRC is the arm of UJF which works with the non-Jewish world, on a local and state level. It mobilizes the Jewish community, building relationships, and engaging in non-partisan work focused on education, social justice, communal security, support for Israel and combating anti-Semitism. Funding goal $79,400

Overseas

Jewish Free Loan Society

Affinity Groups

UJF’s global connections are strengthened through our contributions to the overseas Jewish Community. Wherever there is a Jew in need, UJF’s partners, the American Joint Distribution Committee, the Jewish Agency and World ORT are there to provide a safety blanket for any Jew in need. Our network, especially in post-communist countries, serves as a catalyst for the rebirth, renewal and growth of Jewish life.

This program, administered by Schoke Jewish Family Service, will provide interest free loans to community members in need.

UJF events provide opportunities for Jewish community members in the same profession or life stage to gather while learning about timely and relevant topics - often with the opportunity to earn professional credits. Groups include: lawyers, doctors, business professionals, NextGen and Chapter Two (empty nesters).

Funding goal $23,520

Funding goal $27,000

Life & Legacy LIFE & LEGACY® is a collaborative program that helps individuals and families create legacy gifts for Jewish causes they care about, providing a permanent source of support for our community organizations and beyond.

Ongoing Covid Relief

Community Impact

Our community has been hit hard by this pandemic and every Jewish institution has incurred increased operation costs to keep us connected and safe in these unprecedented times. Funds raised in this category will be available to provide additional financial support to local agencies/synagogues requiring aid for expenses during this period.

Shalom/Welcome Program Through the Shalom/Welcome Program, UJF welcomes new Jewish residents to our community, providing them with information and opportunities to connect Jewishly. The Shalom Baby Program welcomes new babies with gifts and provides relevant information to their parents. Funding goal $9,200

New Jewish Voice Newspaper The New Jewish Voice, published by UJF, is provided free of charge to over 5,000 households. Local Jewish communal organizations submit articles and photos, and receive thousands of dollars of free publicity annually.

UJF applied and was accepted to this program on behalf of our local community. Federation administers the program in partnership with 10 local synagogues and Jewish organizations in Stamford, New Canaan and Darien. Participating community organizations receive training and incentive grants from the Harold Grinspoon Foundation and UJF. The program is founded on the principle that all of us, regardless of age, wealth or affiliation, can make an enduring impact. Funding goal $82,000

Funding goal $69,000

Virtual Classroom and Studio The Stamford JCC proposes the creation of a professional quality production studio space with capabilities to develop, create, and deliver high quality, multi-media virtual programming. Community members of all ages will be engaged through educational, recreational, and cultural programs; fitness classes; podcasts; speakers and interviews; early learning and youth activities; teen programming; and more. Funding goal $72,800

DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

Communal Scholarship Fund

Yom HaShoah Commemoration

Our community, like others around the world, has had a tremendous rise in scholarship needs due to the economy caused by the pandemic. By contributing to the Communal Scholarship Fund, Jewish organizations in our local community will receive funds which can be provided for scholarships to those in need for programs, schools, camp and more.

UJF, together with the Board of Rabbis, brings the community together with impactful speakers and programs to remember entire communities and individuals lost in the Shoah. Funding goal $14,000

2020 Campaign for Communal Needs Here you will find opportunities to direct your 2020 campaign gift to programs that will strengthen our community.

If you don’t fund them, they don’t happen! YOU can impact and strengthen our Jewish community. It’s your community, your money, and your choice. And of course, you can choose to support Israel, our Jewish brethren overseas, the Infrastructure of Federation or put your funds to “Where it is Needed Most” which will be used to fund the programs outlined here.

This campaign is Powered By YOU.

Passover Seder

Schoke Jewish Family Service will continue to implement a friendly visiting program geared toward reaching elderly and homebound individuals looking for companionship.

The Friendship Circle will host and facilitate a Passover seder to allow special needs families from across our community to enjoy the holiday in a comfortable and controlled environment.

Funding goal $24,640

Funding goal $5,600

Community Chesed

B’Yachad/Together

Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy will offer a curriculum for students of grades Pre-K through 12 to volunteer, perform acts of chesed, on a regular basis in the local community and beyond. The purchase of a bus will allow for transportation as needed.

Schoke Jewish Family Service will provide a welcoming inclusive program for LGBT tweens and teens where Judaism, sexual orientation and sexual identity can be explored and embraced in a safe place.

Funding goal $112,000

Funding goal $30,240

Senior Services at Home Schoke Jewish Family Service will administer and facilitate programming to address an unmet need for mobile counseling, and provide case management services for the physically impaired and home bound elderly. Funding goal $16,800

PJ Library Programming UJF’s PJ Library and PJOurWay provide children ages 6 month to 11 years old with monthly books, free of charge as well as regular programming opportunities. These programs serve as connectors for families with young children to the greater community. Funding goal $38,000

Youth and Young Adult Opportunities

Connect to Community

Social Services & Senior Support

More information can be found at www.ujf.org or please contact Diane Sloyer at (203) 321-1373/105, dianesloyer@ujf.org.

DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

The New Jewish Voice

JHSFC Lights Up with December Programs BY ELISSA KAPLAN The Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield County will co-sponsor a program hosted by the Darien Library on Thursday, December 3, 2020, “Hanukkah: The History and Celebration” presented by Rabbi Phil Schechter and Rabbi Liz Rolle. Please check the Darien Library website https://www.darienlibrary.org/ to register for thi s free event, and you will receive the Zoom link the day of the program. Join the JHSFC Book Talks Series on Wednesday, December 9, 2020 at 7:00 pm to discover the history of the menorah.

Jonathan Fass will review the Jewish Book Council award winning book, The Menorah: From the Bible to Modern Israel by Steven Fine. Jonathan is the Managing Director of Educational Technology and Strategy at The Jewish Education Project of New York. Check the JHSFC website for Zoom links. If you have any questions, please contact The Jewish Historical Society of Fairfield County, Bridging Yesterday and Tomorrow, by phone at the Archives: 203-3592196, by email: info@jhsfc-ct.org, or on-line: http://jhsfc-ct.org/.

TEMPLE BETH EL Everyone welcome. For Zoom links call TBE office 203-322-6901 ext.300. Day 1 - Thursday, December 10, 4:00pm: CITY OF STAMFORD CANDLE LIGHTING CEREMONY! Join us on Zoom as we light the menorah from Government Center with Mayor Martin, Rabbi Hammerman, and Cantor Katie. Day 2 - Friday, December 11, 6:00pm: KABBALAT SHABBAT HANUKKAH SERVICE Join us for Kabbalat Shabbat with a Hanukkah theme, led by Rabbi Hammerman and Cantor Katie on Zoom! TBE religious school students will participate in this service. Day 3 - Saturday, December 12, 6:00pm: HANUKKAH HAVDALAH TAILGATE PARTY IN THE TBE PARKING LOT! Bring your menorah and candles! We’ll all light our candles together and play a dreidel game with prizes! You must register in advance to participate. The Havdalah service and candle lighting ceremony will also be broadcast on Zoom. For those who can’t participate in person.

Day 4 - Sunday, December 13, 6:00pm: HANUKKAH HOLIDAY APPAREL NIGHT! Wear your holiday sweater, tie, socks, hat, or other article of clothing! Day 5 - Monday, December 14, 6:00pm: HANUKKAH TRIVIA KAHOOT NIGHT! You’ll need two devices to play, one for the Zoom session and a phone or tablet. Day 6 - Tuesday, December 15, 6:00pm: BE THE LIGHT FOR THE HOLIDAY: THE MITZVAH OF HANUKKAH GIVING! On one night of Hanukkah, instead of receiving gifts, let’s give to those who need our help! Tell us about your favorite charitable organization. Day 7 - Wednesday, December 16, 6:00pm: DREIDEL SPIN NIGHT! Let’s see who can spin the dreidel for the longest time! There will be a prize! Day 8 - Thursday, December 17, 6:00pm: HANUKKAH MENORAH STORIES! Share the story or family history of your Hanukkah menorah.

Women's Philanthropy

of United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien is sponsoring a

WINTER HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE

Benefiting David's Treasure Tree Toy Closet at Stamford Hospital Gifts will be collected through December 10th and can be dropped off at UJF’s offices, BCHA or Gan Yeladim. Gifts can be sent via Amazon to: UJF, 1035 Newfield Avenue, Stamford, CT 06905, Attention Diane Sloyer Questions? Email Diane Sloyer at dianesloyer@ujf.org or call (203) 321-1373, ext. 105 Chairs: Alix Eben Field and Marlene Gatz DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

CHANUKAH EVENTS CHANUKAH WITH TEMPLE SINAI Temple Sinai will host eight-minute gatherings on each of the eight nights of Chanukah to light the Chanukah menorah, have some fun, sing some songs and keep the celebration

of miracles alive in difficult times. To join the celebration, contact the Temple office 203.322.1649 for Zoom information – all are welcome!

CONGREGATION AGUDATH SHOLOM Mondays: Chanukah Torah Across New England Tune in to learn something new about Chanukah from a different New England rabbi every week through Chanukah! ALL CLASSES ARE VIRTUAL and at 8:00 pm. Zoom info: zoom.us/j/7052940733 Dial in: (646) 558-8656, code: 7052940733# Zoom password: 015824 Monday, November 30: Rabbi Benjamin J. Samuels, PhD - How Many Chanukah Lights? The Development of Halakhic Practice

in Light of Talmudic Interpretation, Sociology, Climate and Technology. Monday, December 7: Rabbi Tuvia Brander - Unraveling the Mysteries of Maoz Tzur. Monday, December 14: Rabbi Daniel Cohen - We are all Kohanim: The Mystery and Message of Lights in the Temple and on Chanukah. For further information, contact Moshe Kurtz, Assistant Rabbi, Congregation Agudath Sholom at (203) 358-2200 or rabbikurtz@cas-stamford.org

Chabad Has You Covered for Chanukah (Courtesy of Chabad of Stamford) This Chanukah, Chabad of Stamford will once again ‘light up the community’ with its Chanukah celebrations with an array of safe and socially-distant activities for the entire community. Kicking off the celebrations will be its menorah car parade, now in its fourth year, on Saturday, December 12th starting at 6:00pm. This will be an opportunity for people to bring their cars to Chabad to be decked out with a car menorah and drive around Stamford together spreading the Chanukah spirit throughout town. The parade will start at Chabad on 770 High Ridge Road, Stamford and drive through downtown Stamford and Harbor Point before ending at Latham Park to light the Chanukah menorah together in celebration of the third night of Chanukah in a fun celebratory way while keeping everyone socially distant and safe. The celebration will continue the following day with its Chanukah Community celebration and Giant Menorah Lighting outdoors at Latham park in downtown Stamford on Sunday, December 13, starting at 4:00pm. This event is for families, local dignitaries and community leaders alike. Says Rabbi Moshe Shemtov, Director of Chabad of Stamford, “Come warm your heart with Jewish pride as we light Fairfield County’s largest menorah.

Spreading light and joy is the perfect way to amplify the Chanukah message – that of Jewish continuity, perseverance and the spreading of light’’. The evening will include latkes and donuts as well as hot apple cider. With safety a top priority, three popular Chanukah events have moved online this year. Chabad’s Jewish Women Connected (JWC) package party on Tuesday, December 15th will be online for the first time. For Leah Shemtov, director of Chabad of Stamford, “This event is an annual favorite where we look to bring the ‘fun’ into fundraising, where gifts are brought in advance and auctioned off to the highest bidder for a chosen charity’’. On Wednesday, December 16th, at 8:00pm JWC’s Cooking Club will hold a donut making event on Zoom. All the ingredients can be bought pre-measured beforehand and prepared together. Lastly, Chabad’s “Betsy’s Buddies” program will host a Chanukah lunch for seniors in the community and their special friends on Thursday, December 17th. A boxed lunch will be delivered to participants who can join together online to celebrate. For more information on any of Chabad of Stamford’s Chanukah events, to register or to volunteer, please contact programs@stamfordchabad.org or call 203324-2223 ext 103

This Chanukah add your light. Wishing you and your family a Happy Chanukah! David Gordon President

Diane Sloyer

Chief Executive Officer

CHANUKAH

The New Jewish Voice

Grandma’s Comfort Blintzes for Hanukkah BY RONNIE FEIN This has been a stressful year, so as far as I am concerned, it’s important to celebrate when we can. Hanukkah is one of those times. It’s not just that taking joy in an ancient victory for religious freedom seems especially meaningful now, it’s also that we can feel happy about the traditions that bind us – lighting the menorah, playing dreidel, passing out Hanukkah gelt, eating the delicious classics so many of us enjoy. In my family, Hanukkah dinner was always a high-carb, high-fat meal. Latkes of course! But we also had blintzes and ended the meal with my mother’s world-class kichels, cut paper thin and fried to a crisp. When my grandma was alive she would make dozens of blintzes, place them on a baking sheet, top them with a bit of butter and bake them – there were so many of us that frying the blintzes would have been impossible. The filling she made was simple: farmer-cheese with a judicious amount of

Grandma Rachelle Hoffman’s blintzes.

lemon and just a hint of sugar. No vanilla extract. This is the flavor we loved; my Mom continued the tradition as do I. I am in the mood for a traditional Hanukkah dinner this year. I need the comfort that classic family recipes bring. Blintzes will be on the menu. I will stuff them with that lemony-cheese mixture and bake them. However, you can change my grandma’s recipe – add more sugar and/or vanilla extract. You can fry them in butter if you prefer. I’ve prepared them several different ways and all are delicious. However you make blintzes, Happy Hanukkah. Stay safe. Celebrate. GRANDMA RACHELLE HOFFMAN’S BLINTZES WRAPPER: 3/4 cup all-purpose flour 1-1/2 teaspoons sugar 1/2 teaspoon salt 3/4 cup milk, approximately 2 large eggs softened butter for frying FILLING: 1 pound farmer’s cheese 1 large egg 2 tablespoons sugar 1 teaspoon lemon juice 1/2 teaspoon grated fresh lemon peel, optional 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional

To make the wrapper, combine the flour, sugar and salt in a bowl and stir to blend the ingredients. Add the milk and eggs and whisk until the batter is smooth and uniform (you may do this in a food processor). Add more milk if the batter seems too thick (it should be the consistency of heavy cream). Set aside for 30 minutes. Place a small amount of the softened butter in a crepe or omelet pan and place the pan over medium-high heat. When the butter has melted and the foam is beginning to separate, add enough batter to cover the bottom of the pan (for an 8-inch pan it will be 1/4-cup), shaking the pan quickly to spread the batter evenly. Cook for a minute or so or until the bottom is lightly browned. Turn the wrapper over and cook briefly. Remove the wrapper and proceed with the remaining batter, separating the cooked wrappers with aluminum foil or waxed paper. To make the filling, place the cheese, egg, sugar and lemon juice in a bowl and mix thoroughly. Add the lemon peel and/or vanilla extract and mix in thoroughly. To fill each wrapper: use the first fried side as the inside of the blintz. Use about 2 tablespoons of filling for an 8-inch wrapper and place the filling in the center of the wrapper. Fold the bottom side up, over the filling. Fold the left side, then the right side over the filling, then roll up to enclose the filling. Fry the blintzes seam side down first over medium

heat (using the same method as for frying the wrappers – let the butter melt and become foamy). Or, you can bake the filled blintzes: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Place the blintzes in a single layer on a jelly roll pan, top each with a tiny piece of butter. Bake for about 10 minutes. Makes 8 8-inch blintzes Ronnie Fein is a cookbook author, food writer and cooking teacher in Stamford. She is the author of The Modern Kosher Kitchen and Hip Kosher. Visit her food blog, Kitchen Vignettes, at www.ronniefein.com, friend on Facebook at RonnieVailFein, Twitter at @RonnieVFein, Instagram at @RonnieVFein.

The cover of Ronnie Fein’s newest cookbook, “The Modern Kosher Kitchen.”

Calling All 10th-12th Graders

UJF’s Kuriansky Teen Tzedakah Corps is Back! The program will begin virtually on Sunday, December 20th and meet monthly through May. The program will be facilitated by Jonathan Fass, Managing Director, Education Technology at The Jewish Education Project.

Applications can be found at www.ujf.org and are due by December 13th. Questions can be directed to Jonathan at jfass@ujf.org. DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

The New Jewish Voice

UJF LIFE & LEGACY Testimonials

COMMUNITY NEWS INTERNATIONAL NEWS LIFE & LEGACY Honor Roll

In each edition of the New Jewish Voice, we feature the testimonials of couples just like you, who have declared their intent to leave a legacy gift to an organization in the Stamford Jewish Community. Learn why they give and discover your reasons to join them. Together, we can all work to guarantee the future of the Stamford Jewish Community we love! BETSY AND MIKE STONE TESTIMONIAL

The Stamford Jewish community has been integral to our family's daily life for al- Mike and Betsy Stone most 30 years. All five of us (Betsy, Mike, Deborah, Sarah, and Daniel) have been active ability to help fund today's activities, we are helping and engaged members of the community - often to provide permanent funding for the future of our through Temple Sinai but also UJF, Schoke Jewish community. We hope you will join us! Family Service, Kulanu, and the JCC - and have frequently played leadership roles. The health and vibrancy of Jewish Stamford matter to us. LENORE AND ILAN FOGEL TESTIMONIAL As leaders, we also know how much energy and We moved to the City of Stamford in 2004 effort goes into annual fundraising. We want to see and have felt at home since the moment we arour Jewish institutions thrive in good times and bad, rived. Never before have we lived in a communiand for many years into the future even after we're ty where all the organizations work so diligently to gone. That's why legacy giving is so important, both come together for the good of the whole. The two of to us and to the community. Without taking any- us and our five children who have grown up here, thing out of our pockets today, or diminishing our have been blessed to benefit from such a wide variety of options and opportunities, and to have so many places where we feel a sense of belonging. We were both raised by parents who believed in the strength of community and in its power. They showed us by their actions what it means to build a place where all different types of people can find their niche. As you might imagine, raising five children close in age can make it difficult to share all that we would like with all of the organizations that we love. LIFE & LEGACY® is another avenue for us to feel that we will be able to give to the future of our home that we love so much. What a gift! Lenore and Ilan Fogel

Siblings Virtual Paint Night at Friendship Circle (Courtesy of Friendship Circle) The Friendship Circle of Fairfield County serves not only children and adults with special needs but their families as well. Friendship Circle offers extra support to siblings through various activities as these children may also be impacted by the challenges that may arise. Recently, on a night in October, siblings ages seven through ten participated in a virtual paint night. Each child received a package with all of the materials needed to create a painting, as well as a “make your own smores” kit and a Friendship Circle mask. Shayna Denburg, a professional artist, instructed the children live via Zoom, giving step-bystep instructions on how to create a multi-colored forest of trees. While the children were painting, there was also the opportunity to interact and get to know the other participants. Psychologist Dr. Sonia Roitman also joined the discussion to help facilitate the process and any topics that might arise. Eliza Walmark, a sibling of a child with special needs, spoke to the

Eliza Walmark speaks to other siblings.

group about some of the challenges, rewarding moments and growth that come with being a sibling. Chaya Hanoka, Program Coordinator at the Friendship Circle, said, “It is so important for siblings of children with special needs to have a chance to connect with each other. Paint night was a fun and social way to allow them to do so.” To learn how you can become involved with the Friendship Circle, please contact Malya Shmotkin at malya@friendshipct.com

DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

Anonymous (8) Adrienne and Michael Alexander Jeri Appel Mark Appel Erica Snow Arbron Suellyn Bache Rachel Tyd and Robert Beldock Darona and Rabbi Tzvi Bernstein Melody and Claude Bernstein Bruce Blasnik Judith B. Block Amy and Henry Bubel Alan Cohen Andrea and David M. Cohen Diane and Rabbi Daniel Cohen Malerie Yolen-Cohen and Jeff Cohen Judy and David S.* Cohen Mimi Cohen Rachel and Ephraim Cohen Roberta Cohen Saul Cohen* Arthur Cramer* Stephen Davidson Helen and Marty Donner Fran and Bob Dorf Shoshana Dweck Debra and Daniel Faizakoff Michelle Fanwick Peggy and Jerry Fensterstock Lenore and Dr. Ilan Fogel Morton Lavinsky and Miriam Folb* Sharon Franklin Connie and Alan Freeman Marc Friedman Donna and Edward Fuhrman Nancy and Mark Funt Lesley and Dennis Gehr Carole Gladstone Herbert Gladstone* Sylvia and Herb Gladstone* Robin Frederick and Michael Gold Cyndy and Eric Goldberg Caryl Goldstein* Meryl and David Gordon Nan and Paul Gordon Linda B. Gornitsky Hank Green Sharon and Larry Greenberg Pam Ehrenkranz and Matt Greenberg Grecia and Ron* Gross Scott Handelman Jacqueline Herman Dr. Shara and Rabbi David Israel Devra Jafee-Berkowitz Meryl and Ron Japha Judith and Grant Kallen Chanie Kamman Jason Kaplowitz Joy Katz Judith and Sheldon Katz Larry Katz Liz and Mark Kitay Elissa and Philip Klapper Harris Kligman Susan Kostin

Jeannie and Brian Kriftcher Jackie and Marshall Kurland Lorraine and David Kweskin Helen and Ed Kweskin Lieba and Steve Lander Shelley Leibowitz Lois D. Stark and Gary P. Lessen Vered and Mark Links Eleanor and Mark Lowenthal Norma and Milton Mann* Susan and Len Mark Chris Maroc Melanie Massell Michal and Rabbi Levi Mendelow Nancy Zinbarg Mimoun Marsha and Lois Panzer Enid Randall* Bonita and Stephen Rappoport Judith Raymond Lisa and Harry Rich Judy and Adam Rin Betty and Dan* Roberts Arlene and Carl Rosen Irma Ross Sally and Jim Rothkopf Bonnie Russo Edith Samers Sharyn and Richard Sarner Hilde Scheraga* Jayne and Bud Schiff Carol Ruth and Herman Shepherd* Nancy Schiffman Monica Smyth and Michael Schlessinger Elayne and James Schoke* Chaya and Levi Segal Myrna and George Sessa Jessica and Laurence Sheinman Leah and Rabbi Moshe Shemtov Stephanie and Bob Sherman Malya Shmotkin Ronnie Ness Sichel Dr. Steven Sichel Paula Simon Diane Sloyer Diane and Elliot Sloyer Greta Solomon Ed Spilka Eileen and Fred Springer Beverly and David Stein Betsy and Michael Stone Gladys and Greg Teitel Dr. Julie and Rabbi Jay TelRav The Estate of Sheila Carmine* The Estate of Thomas Gilmartin* The Estate of Ronald Gross* Ellen and Richard Weber Linda B. Gornitsky and Harvey Weber Dana and Carl Weinberg Leon Weisburgh Janet Welkovich Joan Zinbarg* Renee Zinn *Of Blessed Memory

This is the list provided to UJF at time of publishing. We apologize for any names that have been omitted. Please let us know and the missing names will be added to the next issue of the paper.

EDUCATION CONGREGATION AGUDATH SHOLOM CLASSES PARSHA PERSPECTIVES WITH RABBI DANIEL COHEN

Tuesdays weekly at noon. FREE. Join Rabbi Daniel Cohen for a weekly dive into the relevant and timely lessons of the upcoming Torah Portion. To join the Zoom class: zoom. us/j/8514043665 Dial in: (646) 568-7788, code: 8514043665# Zoom password: 1234613 LITERATURE AT LUNCH

Wednesdays, once per month at Noon. Future dates TBA. FREE. Read and discuss one short story a month with your fellow community members. Richard Schwartz will present the literature and Rabbi Kurtz will provide the Torah! To join the Zoom class: zoom. us/j/7052940733 Dial in: (646) 558-8656,

code: 7052940733# Zoom password: 015824 To reserve your space or for more contact information: Rabbi Moshe Kurtz at rabbikurtz@cas-stamford.org. JEWISH APPROACHES TO CONTEMPORARY ISSUES WITH RABBI MOSHE KURTZ

Weekly: Mondays at 8:00 pm. FREE. How does Judaism approach the relevant (and sometimes controversial) which are debated in society, such as abortion, intellectual theft, and responsible risk-taking? To join the Zoom class: zoom. us/j/7052940733 Dial in: (646) 558-8656, code: 7052940733# Zoom password: 015824 Contact info: Rabbi Moshe Kurtz at rabbikurtz@cas-stamford.org.

Chabad of Connecticut is delighted to announce that Rabbi Yisrael Deren will resume his popular series of Torah Zoom classes, beginning the week of December 7th. Highlighting the series will be an updated version of the Jewish Learning Institute's "Judaism Decoded: The Origins and Evolution of Jewish Tradition." The course sheds light on the mysteries surrounding Jewish law and biblical interpretation. What are the origins of Jewish law? How was it preserved? Who is authorized to interpret Jewish law? Why were many laws added in later times? And with so many interpretations to choose from, how do we know which one reflects its original intent? Participants get a fascinating, behindthe-scenes glimpse of the backbone of

Temple Sinai Adult Class

Mondays, 11/30, 12/7, 12/14, 12/21, 12/28 from 10:30 am - Noon. FREE. To reserve your space, contact Toby Lazarus, 203-921-4161 or tlazarus@ctjfs.org. Prior to the class, you will receive an email with the Zoom link.

Wednesdays, January 6, 13, 20 at 6:30-8:30 pm Zentangle with Cantor Micah Morgovsky Feeling stressed and anxious? Join Cantor Micah for virtual Zentangle classes via Zoom. This meditative art form can help relieve tension and calm the mind.

TEMPLE BETH EL VIRTUAL ADULT EDUCATION Monday afternoons at 1:30pm December 7, 14 with Rabbi Gerry Ginsburg Bring your own coffee. We’ll provide the conversation. SCOTCH AND TORAH: LEARN TORAH WITH TBE MEN’S CLUB

Thursday evenings at 8:45pm and moderated by Rabbi Gerry Ginsburg Relax and take a sip of your favorite beverage as we discuss the weekly Torah portion. You don’t have to be a member of the Men’s Club to participate, nor do you need to be male! Everyone is invited. MEDITATION AND GUIDED IMAGERY

Tuesday, December 1 at 7:00pm with Katie Kaplan, Cantorial Soloist Join us as we use breath, chant, and visualization to carve out a moment of peace in our lives. THE JEWISH AND CHRISTIAN ROOTS OF RACISM AND INCLUSION

Tuesday, December 8 and 15 from 7:00-8:30pm with Rabbi Joshua Hammerman, of Temple Beth El, and Rev. Dr. Michael Christie, of Union

Baptist Church. In this two-part series, Rabbi Hammerman will first take a close look at how Jewish sources reveal an ongoing tension between inclusivity and parochialism. This tension informs views on racism that have evolved over the centuries, both in Judaism and Christianity – for example the “Curse of Ham,” which was used to justify the slave trade. In the second part Rabbi Hammerman and Rev. Christie will discuss key sources and further explore the biblical/religious roots of racism.

Kurt Kleinman, great uncle of TBE member Lisa Grove-Raider, will answer our questions about his journey to America in 1941 to escape the horrors of the Holocaust after we watch a video about his trek. The Kleinman family's story is depicted in the book, The Boy Who Followed His Father into Auschwitz. All are welcome! Sponsored by TBE Sisterhood and Men's Club. Please RSVP to sisterhood@tbe.org for Zoom information.

TOGETHER & APART: THE FUTURE OF JEWISH PEOPLEHOOD

ADULT HEBREW READING CRASH COURSE ON ZOOM

Six selected Tuesdays beginning in January 2021 with Rabbi Joshua Hammerman. This series addresses the complex features of Jewish peoplehood inherent in our tradition and in our history. Who are we? What does it mean to be a member of the Jewish people? And what are some of the fundamental values that this encompasses? Contact Temple Beth El at office@tbe.org for Zoom information. VIDEO AND BOOK PRESENTATION

Sunday, December 20 at 2:00 pm featuring Kurt Kleinman - Holocaust Survivor

Judaism. The cost is $99 for the 6-week series. Scholarships are available. Rabbi Deren will also give a weekly class in Talmud for beginners, a class in Tanya (the fundamental mystical text of Chassidism), and a class on the weekly Parsha, all open to the community at no charge. In addition, Morah Vivi Deren will teach a series for women, under the auspices of the Rosh Chodesh Society, which is also part of the Jewish Learning Institute. The 7-session course is called "Code to Joy", and will begin the week of December 7. The cost is $99, and scholarships are available. The classes require prior registration on jewishharborpoint.org or via email to rabbi@chabadstamfrord.org. For specific dates and times, please contact Rabbi Deren.

Zentangle with Cantor Micah Morgovsky

Schoke JFS Brain Fitness Program

COFFEE WITH RABBI G.: PIRKEI AVOT - ETHICS OF OUR ANCESTORS

ZOOM TORAH WITH RABBI DEREN

JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE Word play, puzzles, memory games, and problem-solving activities can enhance your brain power and are fun ways to challenge yourself. Strategies for improving your skills are also discussed during these sessions, and participants share which techniques they find most effective.

The New Jewish Voice

Fee: Temple Sinai Members: $18.00 for Materials fee and Non-Members: $36.00 Tuition and Materials fee. Prior to the class, you will receive an email with the Zoom link. To reserve your space, contact Cantor Micah Morgovsky at 203.322.1649 or Cantormicah@templesinaistamford. org

COMMUNITY NEWS 3SQUARE is Back Robin Madan, co-chair, Nancy Mimoun and Jill Kaplan, co-chair, stock the shelves of UJF’s 3SQUARE Program. Thanks to a gift from the TD Bank Foundation, school children at Rogers Elementary School receive bags of shelf stable food to help supplement the weekends. For more information contact Diane Sloyer at dianesloyer@ujf.org.

Tuesday evenings beginning January 7 from 7:00pm. Learn to read Hebrew in just a few sessions! Join Susan Shapiro. Open to the community. Eight sessions weekly. Learn the letters and sounds of the Hebrew alef-bet and begin to read and chant the prayers of the worship service. This course is made possible by the National Jewish Outreach Program. To RSVP, contact Lisa Gittelman Udi at eddir@tbe.org or call the TBE office at 203-322-6901 x301 All classes are free. Contact Temple Beth El at office@tbe.org for Zoom information. DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

The New Jewish Voice

EDUCATION

Modern Orthodoxy in a Post-Modern World United Jewish Federation’s Annual Meeting & Communal Celebration of the 8th Night of Chanukah Thursday, December 17, 7:30pm Chairs, Jill Kaplan and Nancy Mimoun

GUEST SPEAKER:

Dr. Sherri Wise Survival and Forgiveness: A Story of Optimism and Hope Harvey A. Peltz Young Leadership Award will be presented to Robin Fischel. Presentation of the proposed UJF board slate for 2021. Recognition of retiring board members Linda Gornitsky, Lorraine Kweskin, Peter Lilienthal, Nancy Mimoun, and Shari Raymond.

Rabbi Perl earned his B.A. (Courtesy of BCHA) Rabfrom the University of Pennbi Dr. Gil Perl, Head of School sylvania, his Master’s and Ph.D. at Kohelet Yeshiva in Philain Near Eastern Languages and delphia, PA, and Rabbi Tully Civilizations from Harvard Harcsztark, the Founding PrinUniversity, and rabbinical orcipal of SAR High School in dination from Yeshiva UniverRiverdale, NY, will highlight an sity. As a Teaching Fellow at online panel discussion sponHarvard, Rabbi Perl was twice sored by the Center for Comawarded Harvard’s prestigmunity Education (CCE) of ious Certificate of Distinction Bi-Cultural Hebrew Acadein Teaching, and in the spring my of Connecticut on Tuesday Rabbi Tully Harcsztark of 2006, he was named Yeshiva evening, December 1, 2020 at 8 University’s Lillian F. and Wilpm. liam L. Silber Professor of the The subject of the panYear. el discussion will be “ModRabbi Harcsztark is the ern Orthodoxy in a Post-ModFounding Principal of SAR ern World.” Both of these JewHigh School, and leads Maish educators have written and chon Siach, a research inspoken extensively on the substitute that helps to develop ject, but this is the first time that teachers into thought leadthey will be brought together ers in the Modern Orthoin the same program to discuss dox community. He received the issue. his B.A. from Yeshiva Col“We are very fortunate to Rabbi Dr. Gil Perl lege and his rabbinical ordihost Rabbi Dr. Perl and Rabbi Harcsztark for this program, which will be fea- nation from Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theologituring two of the brightest minds in the Jewish cal Seminary and a Master’s in Jewish Histoeducation field today,” said Michael Feldstein, ry from Bernard Revel Graduate School. He the co-chair of the CCE. “They both have previously served as Rabbi of Congregation strong opinions on what the future holds for Keter Torah in Teaneck, New Jersey, and as Modern Orthodoxy, and this forum will give the Associate Principal of Judaic Studies at both of them an opportunity to present their SAR Academy for nine years. In 2017, Rabbi Harcsztark was a recipient of the Covethoughts to a wide audience.” Rabbi Perl has been the Head of School at nant Foundation Award for excellence in Kohelet Yeshiva since 2014. He served for sev- education. The Center for Community Education is en years as the Dean of the Margolin Hebrew Academy/Feinstone Yeshiva of the South in a new initiative of Bi-Cultural Hebrew AcadMemphis. Prior to that, Rabbi Perl served as emy of Connecticut that aims to inspire an instructor of Modern Jewish History at Ye- thoughtful conversation related to the specshiva University and as the Associate Head of trum of Jewish issues. To register for the Zoom program, please School at Yeshiva University’s High School for visit bchaupperschool.org/cce Boys.

THIS EVENT IS FREE OF CHARGE AND OPEN TO THE COMMUNITY For $36, you will receive a Chanukah gift bag with latkes and other Chanukah treats delivered to your home. Sponsorships of $180 receive a gift bag and will be recognized in the program.

REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED Please register at www.ujf.org/annualmeeting2020. For more information contact Diane Sloyer at dianesloyer@ujf.org or call (203) 321-1373/105 DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

Lorraine Kweskin, current UJF board member and David Kweskin, UJF past President, receive a Thanksgiving Thank You from UJF for their support of the Life and Legacy Program.

United Jewish Federation thanks over 150 donors who have signed letters of intent for the UJF and Harold Grinspoon Life and Legacy Initiative.

COMMUNITY NEWS

The New Jewish Voice

Back To School Kickoff for Reading Partners BY LENORE FOGEL This past September, United Jewish Federation’s Herbert and Sarah M. Gibor Reading Partners Program volunteers gathered to virtually start the new school year together. At this time, volunteers are not able to visit the schools in person. Many took advantage of the opportunity to connect via Zoom, and listen to New York Times Ten Best Books of the Year children’s author Richard Michelson. Mr. Michelson spoke about his journey through life and how it led him to become a

children’s author. The presentation was called Reinventing Myself: A talk about Social Justice, Jews, Blacks, poetry, Brooklyn, Israel, baseball, Leonard Nimoy, and me. His books cover many topics and during his talk he explained what led him to each subject, and especially his focus on social justice. He also spoke of his mentors who greatly influenced his work. These included Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel as well as Leonard Nimoy. Volunteer Caron Dubiel, who participated in the program, said, “Rich Michelson is an

Women’s Philanthropy Joins “Dignity Grows” Initiative (Courtesy of UJF) Women’s Philanthropy of United Jewish Federation of Greater Stamford, New Canaan and Darien is proud to announce that they have become the newest chapter of Dignity Grows™ in Connecticut. Dignity Grows™ was founded by the Jewish Federation of Greater Hartford’s Women’s Philanthropy, and provides girls and young women with the human dignity that comes from having their most basic feminine hygiene needs met, one month at a time. Each Dignity Tote is “Hope in a Bag” for our neighbors in need, and provides essential products so they can attend school and work and participate in community life without interruption. The project began in West Hartford and has been so successful, that it has been launched nationally. “We are thrilled to come on board with this incredible initiative and so pleased to work with two community members, Terry Bernard and Nancy Fahey, who will be co-chairing the program in Stamford”, said Tara Shapiro, Women’s Philanthropy President. Dignity Grows™ will not only have a profound impact on helping individuals in need, but will also provide a wonderful opportunity

for volunteers to participate in a meaningful and important program. “I volunteered at a packing party in West Hartford and was so inspired by the teams of mothers and daughters who were working together to improve the lives of others”, said co-chair Terry Bernard. “There have already been over 5,000 Dignity Grows™ totes distributed in the Greater Hartford area in the past 18 months,” Bernard continued. “It is especially appropriate that our first packing get-together will be timed around the holidays—a time to focus on something positive during this very stressful year. UJF has received a seed grant to fund the first packing which costs $10 a bag. In December, Women’s Philanthropy will pack 100 bags for Schoke Jewish Family Service and other local organizations who serve women who can benefit from these bags,” Shapiro added. The project is funded through donations to UJF, and there is a matching gift in place until December 31st where any new or increased amount will be matched at 50%. For more information and sponsorship opportunities, contact Diane Sloyer at dianesloyer@ujf.org (203) 321-1373, ext. 105.

engaging speaker as well as writer. I think his themes of social justice and empowering children are so relevant to our time and for the children we serve through Reading Partners. This was a great way to keep our connection to the program.” If you would like to become involved in Reading Partners, please contact Lenore Fogel at lenore@ujf.org. Volunteer opportunities are limited during COVID, but Reading Partners looks forward to returning to the schools as soon as safely possible.

Author Richard Michelson

Lulav, Leaves and Love at the Gan (Courtesy of Chabad of Stamford) Lulav, Leaves and Love was the theme for this year’s Family Supper in the Sukkah, which saw families join together for a pasta dinner followed by a fascinating leaf exploration with Michelle from the Bartlett Arboretum. The children all helped create a beauti- (l-r) Nissim Speter, Eliana Katz, Bara Katz, Yael Sosnovich, ful leaf mural to decorate Michelle from the Bartlett Arboretum, Jessie Katz and the Gan Yeladim sukkah. Jessica Sosnovich.

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 8 7:00 pm Two of the nation’s leading experts on combating antisemitism will discuss the dangers American Jews are facing right now. Hear front line perspectives on the current climate from those who have been fighting antisemitism on the international, national, and local levels for over 30 years. Register at ujf.org/antisemitism Moderated by

Speakers

MARK WEITZMAN

Director of Government Affairs Simon Wiesenthal Center

KENNETH JACOBSON Deputy National Director Anti-Defamation League

DR. DALE ATKINS

Psychologist, author, commentator on bringing communities together through kindness

Stamford co-chairs Terry Bernard and Nancy Fahey join Federation volunteers in Hartford to learn more about Dignity Grows and to bring the program to UJF.

DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

The New Jewish Voice

PJ LIBRARY

UJF’s PJ Our Way Zooms In Author Steve Sheinkin (Courtesy of UJF) United Jewish Federation’s PJ Our Way held a Zoom program in late October featuring graphic novelist Steve Sheinkin, author of the beloved Rabbi Harvey series. The program was sponsored by Julie Daniel and her family in honor of her son Adam’s bar mitzvah. Sheinkin talked about his childhood and how the love of the wild west inspired his main character, Rabbi Harvey, a sheriff and spiritual leader. He also showed photos and talked to the kids about Jews who lived during the late 1800’s who were real sheriffs and heroes in the US west. Besides fielding countless questions from curious guests, Sheinkin did a drawing demonstration and lesson so the kids could learn how to draw his characters. Each participant received a book signed and personalized by the author which was purchased and delivered by Adam and his family. Adam plans on doing more PJ mitzvah projects throughout 2021 and has designated his

charity fund from Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy to Stamford’s PJ Library. “Partnering with UJF’s PJ library and PJ Our Way for a bar or bat mitzvah project is a wonderful way to give back to the community and share a child’s love of books” says Sharon Franklin, Managing Director of Campaign and Community Engagement, and PJ Coordinator. PJ Library and PJ Our Way provide free Jewish books to kids around the globe. The program is brought to the Stamford, New Canaan and Darien communities by UJF, generous local philanthropists and the Harold Grinspoon Foundation. You can sign up for PJ Our Way books starting at age eight and a half, (books are received through age 12), and kids can personally select a chapter book from a choice of four books each month. For more information about PJ Our Way or PJ Library, or on how you can partner for a bar or bat mitzvah project, contact Sharon Franklin at sharon@ujf.org.

Step by Step: Graphic novelist Steve Sheinkin teaches participants how to draw Rabbi Harvey.

PJ Library Corner • Chanukah Gelt Recipe- a fun and deliBY SHARON FRANKLIN • Did you know that UJF’s PJ Library pro- cious holiday activity for you and your children! gram provides one book per child for each child in a family aged six months to eight and DIY Chanukah Gelt: Ingredients: 10 oz. dark, white or semia half years old? Sign up all your children for a free Jewish themed book that will be mailed to sweet chocolate. Toppings of your choice: sprinkles, dried fruit, chopped canyour home each month by gody, orange peel, raisins, dried craning to www.pjlibrary.org. berries, mini marshmallows, nuts • Children eight and a half (if there are no allergies in your to 11 years old can also receive house), and the list goes on! a free chapter book from the 1. Line a baking sheet with PJ Our Way program. In fact, parchment paper. Place your topthey can select from four difpings of choice into small bowls for ferent books each month. easy access. Set aside. Sign up at www.pjourway.org. 2. Over a double boiler (with a • Save the date! Register for parent’s help), stir the chocolate unUJF’s PJ Library and Bi-Cultil melted. Once the chocolate has tural Hebrew Academy’s Chamelted, carefully drop tablespoons nukah Coffee Truck & Donut Sharon Franklin of the chocolate onto the prepared Pop Up Event on Sunday, December 6th, from 10 am-12 pm. Limited space baking sheet, two inches apart, forming circles. 3. Make only a few at a time, and then decso sign up now! Children will get a free Chaorate. This will ensure that the chocolate cirnukah gift bag. www.ujf.org/pjcoffee • Join UJF’s PJ Library & Schoke JFS for a cles don't harden before you are ready to decChanukah Reading Buddies Zoom program. orate them. 4. Allow the chocolates to harden comChildren will hear stories read by a JFS Anachnu Holocaust Survivor and have a ch ance to pletely at room temperature before attemptconnect together. Sign up at www.ujf.org/reading to remove them from the parchment paper, about 30 minutes. ingbuddy for children ages three to six.

Chocolate Chanukah Gelt

DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

PJ LIBRARY

The New Jewish Voice

UJF’s Super Week Family Fun Day a Sunny Success BY SHARON FRANKLIN United Jewish Federation’s Super Sunday was held on November 8, 2020, and local families helped celebrate by attending PJ Library’s Family Fun Day. The day was warm and sunny, and allowed families to enjoy this outdoor socially distanced program. Co-chairs for UJF’s Super Sunday, including the Family Fun day, were Robin and Jason Fischel and Allison and Jonathan Ostroff. Families took part in three activities. The Stars of Hope craft involved children and parents painting stars with bright colors and hopeful messages to give cheer to the recipients. The program was sponsored by Shoshana Dweck and family and facilitated by Fran Mauer of Stars of Hope. This is the third year UJF hosted this program for Super Sunday, and the stars were delivered in November to seniors at Atria Senior Living. Kids also had a chance to visit an

The Rabinowitz family painted Stars of Hope for local seniors.

Super Sunday co-chair Jonathan Ostroff and his daughters Rebecca and Eliza drop off their Tzedakah Coin Challenge bags at the Family Fun Day.

Deepa Nayini, Elise Feldman and their daughter Suri paint Stars of Hope sending kind messages and cheer to residents of Atria Senior Living.

animal booth from Stamford Museum and Nature Center. They petted a snake, lizards, turtles and got to see a chinchilla and South

American exotic frogs. The afternoon ended with a sing-along with Jonathan Cahr. Families sat on the lawn to enjoy the music, while

picnicking on brunch boxes they purchased in advance. UJF’s Family Fun Day also gave children the chance to drop off their Super Sunday Tzedakah Challenge bags after they had been collecting coins for almost a month through their schools. The tzedakah challenge is a wonderful opportunity for kids to give charity to UJF’s initiatives and programs that benefit our local community, including COVID relief. Participating schools included Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy, JCC Sara Walker Nursery School, Gan Yeladim Preschool, and the Hebrew schools of Temple Beth El, Temple Sinai, and Chabad of New Canaan. The winning class will receive a pizza delivered to their classroom. The fun continued at 4:00 pm when kids logged on to a Zoom game hour with theater company Mainstages, enjoying dance, scavenger hunts and trivia games. For more information about United Jewish Federation or UJF’s PJ Library, contact Sharon Franklin at sharon@ujf.org.

From left to right: Yael, mother Jen, and Elisheva Rosenfeld picnicked on brunch boxes while listening to music.

The Dreyfuss Glassman family learns about iguanas at the animal booth.

PJ Family Feature Family: The Lasher Family (Courtesy of UJF) The Lasher family moved to Stamford four years ago. David is in the jewelry business, and Liat is a teacher, currently homeschooling their children. They love the warmth of the community and appreciate the amazing local programming for kids! Their daughters, Emma (age five) and Abigail (age three) love getting their PJ Library books in the mail. Their threemonth-old baby sister, Anaelle, will start getting books at age six months. The books are geared to each child’s age group and can be handed down and shared. What is your favorite PJ Library program you have attended? Our family’s favorite PJ program in the past was the Pre-Passover Supper and Song last year with Bobby Doowah. It had live music and the

kids danced with their friends! Times are different now, but we hope in the future we can dance with friends in person again at this kind of event! What is their favorite PJ Library book? Our favorite PJ library book is currently "Rosh Hashanah is Coming", but our family's all-time favorite one is “My Grandfather's Coat.” Why is PJ Library important in your home? As an educator, books are an important part of our family’s life, and having quality Jewish-themed books with meaningful messages is a gift. Not only are the books free, but they come each month, which is exciting for our daughters! I am a UJF Parent Ambassador, and love connecting with other families and helping PJ Library build community.

David and Liatte Lasher with daughters Abigail and Emma.

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COMMUNITY NEWS

The New Jewish Voice

UJF Jewish Community Relations Council Plans for the New Year CONTINUED FROM PAGE 3

In November, UJF joined with other area Federations to commemorate Kristallnacht, honoring the conscience and heroism of Odd Nansen, a Norwegian who financed and operated a shelter for Jews who face imminent death in Nazi-occupied Europe. In 1940, after Norway was overrun by Hitler’s forces, the Gestapo arrested Nansen for his continuing anti-Nazi activities. Nansen was ultimately deported by the Nazi regime to the infamous Sachsenhausen concentration camp in Germany. It was there, at Sachsenhausen, that he kept a secret diary in which he documented and skillfully sketched the daily brutalities he endured and witnessed.

The diary, which Nansen managed to smuggle out of the camp page by page, is an important testimony to the horrific realities of the Holocaust. Odd Nansen’s final act of wartime courage came when he risked his life to save Tommy Buergenthal, a Jewish 10-yearold who arrived in Sachsenhausen after miraculously surviving the death march from Auschwitz. “Tommy” is now Professor Emeritus Thomas Buergenthal of George Washington School of Law. Years later, Professor Buergenthal would write: “Odd Nansen not only saved my life; he also enriched it with his philosophy of life.” To be part of the JCRC, contact Diane Sloyer at dianesloyer@ujf.org or call 203-321-1373, ext. 105.

Friendship Circle Brings Fun to Children and Adult Circles (Courtesy of Friendship Circle) On Sunday, October 18, the Friendship Circle held its third COVID safe, socially distant fair of the year. The Mitzvah (Good Deed) Fair took place outdoors at Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy and included an orientation for this year’s participants in Adult and Children’s Circles. Close to twenty families of children with special needs signed up for a drive-through slot. Each family had its own time and space in order to maintain all social distancing protocols. All the items at each table were wiped down by volunteers in between families. Chaya Hanoka, who helped to organize the fair, said “We loved the opportunity for

children and adults with special needs to learn about good deeds and participate in many of these same mitzvahs that everyone else does. It was also a wonderful opportunity to gather everyone together in a safe environment and share information about the programming we will be able to offer during the fall. We are so grateful that despite the difficulties COVID has caused, we are still able to offer meaningful and fun programming to our families.” Families drove through a variety of booths, where forty teen and adult volunteers were there to meet them and help them participate in the activities. The first booth was a welcome CONTINUED ON PAGE 23

Ali Cohen enjoys getting a bunny from the Critter Caravan.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS

Jonathan Sacks, Former UK Chief Rabbi and Jewish ‘Intellectual Giant,’ Dies at 72 BY BEN HARRIS, CNAAN LIPHSHIZ AND GABE FRIEDMAN / JTA Rabbi Jonathan Sacks, the former chief rabbi of the United Kingdom whose extensive writings and frequent media appearances commanded a global following among Jews and non-Jews alike, has died. Sacks died Saturday morning at age 72, his Twitter account announced. He was in the midst of a third bout of cancer, which he had announced in October. Sacks was among the world’s leading exponents of Orthodox Judaism for a global audience. In his 22 years as chief rabbi, he emerged as the most visible Jewish leader in the United Kingdom and one of the European continent’s leading Jewish voices, offering Jewish wisdom to the masses through a regular segment he produced for the BBC. He had a close relationship with former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, who called Sacks “an intellectual giant” and presented him with a lifetime achievement award in 2018. Sacks was also an immensely prolific author, addressing pressing social and political issues in a succession of well received books. His popular commentary on the prayer book, published by Koren, helped to dethrone the more traditionalist Artscroll Siddur as the preeminent prayer book in American Modern Orthodox synagogues. Sacks was normally averse to mixing religion and politics, something he discussed, along with his latest book, “Morality: Restoring the Common Good in Divided Times,”

and an array of other hot-button topics with the Jewish Telegraphic Agency in August. “When anger erupts in a body politic, there is quite often a justified cause. But then the political domain has got to take that anger and deal with it very fast,” he told JTA’s opinion editor Laura Adkins. “Because anger exposes the problem but never delivers the solution.” But he did take public stances on two topics that were often ensnared with European politics: Israel and anti-Semitism. Sacks spoke out publicly as Britain’s Labour Party was engulfed in an anti-Semitism scandal under its previous leader Jeremy Corbyn, calling Corbyn an anti-Semite. “We have an anti-Semite as the leader of the Labour Party and her majesty’s opposition. That is why Jews feel so threatened by Mr. Corbyn and those who support him,” Sacks said in 2018 during an interview with the New Statesman. That judgement paved the way for the current British Chief Rabbi Ephraim Mirvis to harshly condemn the Labour Party, a precedent-setting event in British Jewish life. Corbyn was replaced in April by centrist Keir Starmer, who has apologized for how anti-Semitism was allowed to flourish in Labour’s ranks under Corbyn. Starmer, who is married to a Jewish woman, expressed his condolences to “the entire Jewish world” in a tweet on Saturday. “He was a towering intellect whose eloquence, insights and kindness reached well beyond the Jewish community. I have no doubt

DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

that his legacy will live on for many generations,” Starmer wrote. Sacks was also vocal in his opposition to the forces that lead to anti-Semitism on the far left and the far right, as he wrote in a JTA oped in January. “Anti-Semitism has little to do with Jews — they are its object, not its cause — and everything to do with dysfunction in the communities that harbor it,” he wrote. In 2017, in a widely circulated YouTube video, Sacks called anti-Zionism a new form of anti-Semitism, arguing that it denies Jews the “right to exist collectively with the same rights as everyone else.” The video was based on a 2016 speech Sacks delivered in Brussels, which is widely seen as having paved the way to Britain’s adoption later that year of the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s definition of anti-Semitism. But the video went far beyond political and academic circles, and became symbolic of Sacks’ ability to reach mainstream audiences. Rachel Riley, a famous British Jewish game show television host, last year shared the video, telling her over 600,000 Twitter followers that it is “the best explanation of antisemitism I’ve seen.” Sacks branched out beyond religious and Jewish cultural thought as well. In 2017 he delivered a Ted Talk about “facing the future without fear” and what he called a “fateful moment” in Western history after the election of Donald Trump as U.S. president, citing Thomas Paine and anthropologists to make an argument about returning a culture of togetherness.

Jonathan Sacks seen as the chief rabbi of the United Kingdom, circa 2000. (CREDIT: JOHN DOWNING/GETTY IMAGES)

Born in London in 1948, Sacks studied at Cambridge University. While a student there in the 60s, he visited Rabbi Menachem Schneerson — the spiritual leader who is credited with turning the Hasidic Chabad-Lubatvitch movement into a powerful organizing force of Jewry around the world — in New York City. Sacks credits that meeting with inspiring him to get involved with Jewish studies, as he detailed in a series of videos for Chabad.org in 2011. He became the rabbi of the Golders Green synagogue in London’s most Orthodox neighborhood in the late 70s and then rabbi of the Marble Arch synagogue in central London. The U.K. Board of Deputies of British Jews President Marie van der Zyl also released a statement on Saturday. “Rabbi Sacks was a giant of both the Jewish community and wider society. His astounding intellect and courageous moral voice were a blessing to all who encountered him in person, in writing or in broadcast,” van der Zyl said. Sacks is survived by his wife Elaine, three children and several grandchildren.

VOICES & VIEWS WHY I CARE…

The New Jewish Voice

TEEN VOICES

Focus on Joe and Lauren Zalis Reading With PJ Library “There is no better exercise for your heart than reaching down and helping to lift someone up.” – Dr. Bernard Meltzer

BY JANE LEVENE Joe and Lauren are active in the Stamford Jewish community. Lauren grew up in Stamford where she attended Bi-Cultural Day School. Joe grew up in Maryland and attended The Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School. The couple met in 2006 in Washington, D.C. and then moved to Stamford in 2008. Their children, Dylan and Hayden, were born in 2013 and attend Hebrew School at Hebrew Wizards. The family is a member of Congregation Agudath Sholom and dedicates time to several Jewish as well as Greater Stamford community organizations. Here’s why they care… Describe your current and past involvement with UJF and how long you have been involved. Joe and I have been involved with UJF since 2008 when Joe relocated to Stamford for work and I returned home to Stamford. We immediately became involved with the Young Couples committee. We have both chaired and attended many UJF events, and now we get to enjoy many of the PJ Library events with our family. Joe and I both also had the honor of participating in the Behrend Leadership group. Have you been involved with other Jewish organizations in the community and elsewhere? We are both involved with a number of local Jewish organizations. I (Lauren) am one of the founding board members of the Friendship Circle,

Lauren and Joe Zalis with their children Hayden and Dylan

and a past board member of Schoke Jewish Family Service. Joe has also been on the board for UJF young families, Congregation Agudath Sholom, and several community allocation committees. Why is it important for you to give back in this way? It is important for us to give back because it opens up our minds, eyes, and hearts to a bigger purpose of making our community and this world a better place. We also need to lead by example for our children and we often discuss with them the importance of tzedakah, sharing, and giving to others. How has your family done during the pandemic and has it changed the way you give time to the community? One of the biggest blessings and changes is that we now eat almost every dinner together as a family. Joe is no longer commuting or traveling and is home for family meals. We also really appreciate and understand the value of our strong Jewish and local community and feel truly blessed to be a part of it.

BY ADAM DANIEL I have been reading since I was very young, and it has been a big part of my life. My mom says I’m a “voracious reader” because I read over one hundred books each year. She also says I’m a “lost soul without a good book in my hand”. I remember reading PJ Library books since I was in first grade. From when I was young, I always used to look forward to my PJ Library book coming in the mail every month. When I was younger, some of my favorite PJ Library books were King Sol- Adam Daniel omon and the Bee by Dalia Hardoff Renberg and Never Say a Mean Word Again by Jacqueline Jules. Some of my favorite PJ Library books now are the Rabbi Harvey series by Steve Sheinken and Click Here to Start by Denis Markell. I like that these books interweave Judaism with the book’s theme.

PJ Library has enriched my life, so I wanted to give something back. I am giving back by raising money and awareness for PJ by partnering with United Jewish Federation, our local PJ Library agency. A few weeks ago, I hosted a Zoom with my favorite PJ Library author, Steve Sheinken. He wrote the Rabbi Harvey series along with a lot of other good books. For every participant on the Zoom, I purchased and distributed a signed Rabbi Harvey book. I plan to continue to volunteer for PJ Library community events this coming year and in the future. It is great that I can combine my love of reading with a worthy cause. Adam is a 7th grader at Bi-Cultural Hebrew Academy in Stamford, CT. Some of his interests are football, baseball, basketball, and reading. He also plays the electric guitar, and his favorite band is Guns N’ Roses.

COMMUNITY NEWS Friendship Circle Brings Fun to Children and Adult Circles CONTINUED FROM PAGE 22

station, where families received a bag with water and snacks and Friendship Circle swag. At the same booth, families were able to give real money to charity (Tzedakah) and also make a blessing on Tefillin (prayer phylacteries). Next the participants moved on to a booth with the theme of giving charity. Hoops were on the ground and the families tried to throw a big cardboard coin into any of the hoops. An arts and crafts booth featured the opportunity to create a dream catcher with a Hebrew prayer about thankfulness. Children and adults decorated the project and discussed things for which to

be thankful. Creating a piece of a decorative chain and joining it together taught the mitzvah that we are all responsible for each other and to be kind and loving to one another. The Critter Caravan and Bobby Doowah both came to visit the fair. The participants were happy to have time to play with the animals and hold them. Booby Doowah offered a chance to sing and dance and let off some steam. The combination of the activities and the time to spend with a special friend offered a sampling of the activities and friendships that take place during Children and Adult Circles during the year. To learn more about the Friendship Circle, please contact Malya Shmotkin at malya@friendshipct.com

“Stars of Hope” for Seniors

Susan Furth and her niece (on the left) Lauren Sayah load up 3Square bags containing shelf-stable food for food-insecure kids.

Residents at Atria Senior Living in Stamford were the recipients of colorful Stars of Hope decorated by United Jewish Federation’s PJ Library kids on Super Sunday at the Family Fun Day program. Stars of Hope is a non-profit that empowers people of all ages to transform individuals and communities in need of hope through the power of art and messages of healing. Thank you to Shoshana Dweck and family for sponsoring the craft. DECEMBER 2020 – JANUARY 2021 • KISLEV-TEVET 5781

United Jewish Federation The New Jewish Voice 1035 Newfield Ave, Suite 200 Stamford, CT 06905

Make a Blessing

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What aspects of Jewish life do you cherish most—learning, community, worship, caring for those in need or social justice? Whatever you care about most, by leaving a legacy you ensure the things you value are sustained for future generations.

It takes just a few moments. To light the menorah, and transform the evening with a blessing. You help inspire allFederation, of our Jewish and tomorrows. To can give through transform lives. Contact Lenore Fogel at 203-321-1373 ext. 115 or any of the participating LIFE & LEGACY partners to learn more: for your year-end giving. BiRemember Cultural HebrewUnited Academy Jewish Federation Friendship Circle Temple Sinai Chabad New Canaan Jewish Community Jewish Federation When you give by December 31st, your giftCenter may also be taxUnited deductible. Chabad Stamford Schoke Jewish Family Service Young Israel of Stamford www.ujf.org Congregation Agudath Sholom Temple Beth El

Sending Blessings to You This Holiday Season Happy Chanukah