Shofar - February 2014 - Adar 5774

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Sh’vat/ Adar 5774

Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

Jewish Family Congregation www.jewishfamilycongregation.org

February 2014

February 2014

February Service Schedule Parshat Terumah and Rosh Chodesh February 1, 9:45 am Shabbat morning service Parshat Tetzaveh

Newtown Youth Voices at the Newtown South Salem Event.

February 7, 7:30 pm Shabbat Service

free babysitting February 8, 9:45 am Shabbat morning service Parshat Ki Tisa February 14, 7:30 pm Shabbat Service Parshat Vayakhel February 21, 7:30 pm Shabbat service

free babysitting

Polly and Rayn Schnell accompanied by Gabe Zuckerberg at the Newtown South Salem Event.

February 22, 9:45 am Shabbat morning service Parshat Pekude and Shabbat Shekalim February 28, 7:30 pm Shabbat Service featuring Grade 3

7th grade Religious School class at the Newtown South Salem Event.

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

February 2014

From the Rabbi’s Desk Gauging Interest in a Congregational Israel Trip Spending time in Eretz Yisrael -- the Land of Israel -- can be magical and transformative. I hear this from people of every age, and especially from young adults who return from a Birthright Israel trip. However people travel -- alone, with a group, with family -- their experiences provide them a new understanding of Jewish history, culture, and connection. For a brief span of time they live in “Jewish time,” feeling Shabbat and holidays like no place else in the world. Friendships form, relationships deepen, and a greater sense of political, religious, and even technological realities are learned. Israel is a special place for so many reasons -- unlike traveling to many other places in the world, it is a wonderful combination of personal and familial history, spiritual and intellectual exploration, and fun and unexpected discoveries.

Traveling to Israel with members of one’s congregation also can be deeply moving. In addition to sharing a meaningful travel experience, we also deepen our relationships to each other, to JFC, and to Judaism. We can return to South Salem and environs and enrich those who could not join us -- with pictures, stories, music, and more.

We can reminisce and relive fun and happy moments together for years to come.

with my brother Adam one summer, the next summer I spent six weeks there with friends. My first year of rabbinical school was in Jerusalem, where I was lucky enough to live in a real, true palace. (Ask me about that sometime.) I led two high school student trips and have visited other times as well. Although it is constantly changing and growing, I still consider Jerusalem one of my homes in the world and always look for a chance to visit.

Before setting up an informational meeting, please e-mail to let me know of any interest you may have in going with members of JFC. This could be a general congregational trip, or perhaps a family trip centered around a bar or bat mitzvah ceremony. Most trips last for 10-12 days, and at this point I see three like possible times at the moment: December 2014, Spring 2015 (during Passover), or Summer 2015. After I hear from you, I will set up a meeting where you can learn more about the possibilities, costs, and itineraries.

Please e-mail before February 14 so that I can set up an inperson meeting sometime in March.

I look forward to hearing from you, Rabbi Marcus L. Burstein

I am very fortunate to have spent a significant time in Israel. In addition to becoming a bar mitzvah on Masada

Religious School-------------------Page 3 Early Childhood Center---------- Page 5 President’s Message---------------Page 6

Ritual Committee----------------Page 10 Youth Group----------------------Page 10 February Calendar---------------Page 18

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3 Page Jewish Family Congregation 111 Smith Ridge Road P.O.Box 249 South Salem, NY 10590 Phone: (914) 763-3028 Fax: (914) 763-3069

Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

February 2014

From the Religious School

By Leslie Gottlieb

Last month we celebrated Tu B’ Shvat and although this holiday and its traditions do not appear in Torah, we bind ourselves to its teachings on the fifteenth of Sh’vat every year, a day that marks the birthday of the trees. Some holidays, email: office@jewishfamilycongregation.org website: www.jewishfamilycongregation.org traditions and observances derive directly from Torah as we have come to know from our studies. For example, last month we read Parashat Bo -- and with it ----------------many specific directives as how to observe the Passover traditions offered with Rabbi an understanding of the plagues. For the celebration of trees we have come, over Marcus L. Burstein, D.Min. time, to adhere to a more interpretive model, and there are many creative ways rabbi@jewishfamilycongregation.org to commemorate the special holiness of trees. When we read the famous Joyce Cantor Kilmer poem, Trees, we are reminded that… “Only Gd can make a tree.”

Kerry Ben-David cantor@jewishfamilycongregation.org

---------------Director of Education Leslie Gottlieb lgottlieb@jewishfamilycongregation.org Administrator Kathleen Sakowizc ksakowicz@jewishfamilycongregation.org Early Childhood Center Director Jane Weil Emmer jemmer@jewishfamilycongregation.org -------------------Glenn Kurlander Co-President Hal Wolkin Co-President president@jewishfamilycongregation.org Richard Mishkin, Vice-President Polly Schnell, Vice-President Robyn Cohen, Treasurer Suzanne Sunday, Secretary executive@jewishfamilycongregation.org Josh Blum, Trustee Karen Conti, Trustee Michael Gitlitz, Trustee Ken Levinsohn, Trustee Robi Margolis, Trustee Paul Storfer, Trustee Bonnie Wattles, Trustee Richard Weiser, Trustee Elisa Zuckerberg, Trustee board@jewishfamilycongregation.org -------------Shofar Editor Bryan Wolkin Shofar Printer Copy Stop Royal Press

After the destruction of the second temple in 70 C.E., Jews everywhere needed a way to connect to the land of our ancestry. The land, Eretz Yisrael, was the heart that beat for us all no matter where we lived— historically and now. Celebrating the land that sustains us from year to year-- was and-- is a worthy pursuit. Traditions were borne out of this need to recognize our great attachment to and appreciation of the earth. Kabbalists in the 16th and 17th centuries began a tradition of having fifteen course seders. Some make planting trees in Israel a high priority at this time of the year. When one of our relatives who lived in Haifa died last month, planting a tree in his memory was, for us, the perfect confluence of traditions for Tu B’ Shvat and honoring the dead. But many Jews I know, and especially those not affiliated in synagogue life, have no idea what Tu B’ Shvat is, frankly.

Purim, which rolls around a month from now has more resonance, it appears-even in non-Jewish circles-- and its traditions are more commonly recognized.

It’s interesting to observe what holidays carry more meaning for some than others.

To that end a strong Religious School education helps to teach all of the Jewish prayers, symbols and traditions, forcing a close examination at all grade levels.

But it is most interesting to me to watch our oldest students discuss Judaism as if they own it. They speak with a sure voice and conviction. They can tell you about all kinds of things that relate to being Jewish and then back up their opinions with solid reasoning. These young adults are the link that will be the bridge to the next generation who will have to carry the torch of our shared heritage.

This month, Early Registration for the Religious School begins. The cycle continues. Even though there is a strong financial incentive to register students “early,” it is always interesting to me who gets their paperwork in without a second thought—no matter what the ages of their children. I am especially impressed by the families who get a jump on registering their 8th through 12th graders without hesitation. Some enroll their 8th and 9th graders for the Rabbi’s two year Confirmation Class— even before their children become Bar/Bat Mitzvah in grade 7. This speaks volumes to me and to the children who come to see this part of their Jewish education as a natural pathway into young adulthood. Confirmation is a great program and we are working on ways to attract an even larger cohort of students that may soon include exciting field trips to places like Washington, D.C. Our Youth Group “early” registrants always signal to me a strong continuing commitment to JFC. For these kids, there is little equivocating or decision-making to be carried out. It is just clearly the next step for them and they own it!

Continued on next page

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

February 2014

From the Religious School

By Leslie Gottlieb

I understand as a parent that we give our kids more choices as they age, but I know that by the time students are in high school, their involvement in synagogue life speaks volumes about their personal views. Their motivation to stay active provides me with a powerful incentive to help lead them to make this experience a success. The kids who stay involved post B’nai Mitzvah is truly the trigger for me… something that drives my commitment to serve them.

As you and your youngster enter this process of registering for another year at JFC Religious School, no matter what the age level, know that the teachers, Rabbi and I are committed to making the overall program have meaning for each one of them. Our Rabbi, upon his arrival at JFC, asked me how I am able to motivate the kids to participate—especially beyond grade 7, and I told him that each relationship I have provides a special kind of energy. The bond I try to create with students is authentic, and it is my hope to share my passion with every one of them. I told him that at JFC a relationship needs to be built-- one student at a time at every age level. For me, enrollment is never taken for granted for anyone. This bond helps me to recognize the students’ needs collectively --but also to see them as individuals. I will always feel this way and I hope that our oldest students, especially, feel how important their participation is—whether they are mentors, Youth Group members, Confirmation Class students or 10 Pack members. They are the role models for our younger students and they help keep the circle complete within the walls of JFC. With this secular new year still in its prime, I am resolved to keep our school strong, strong as a tree who… “looks at Gd all day and lifts its leafy arms to pray.”

Trees I think that I shall never see A poem lovely as a tree.

A tree whose hungry mouth is prest Against the sweet earth’s flowing breast; A tree that looks at God all day, And lifts her leafy arms to pray; A tree that may in summer wear A nest of robins in her hair; Upon whose bosom snow has lain; Who intimately lives with rain.

Poems are made by fools like me, But only God can make a tree.

By Joyce Kilmer

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

February 2014

Early Childhood Center

by Jane Emmer

In my 23 years as a member of JFC, the phrase “family is our middle name” has been thrown around a lot. We are a community defined by our desire to embrace families of all ages, types, and sizes. Thus, central to our success and continuity as a congregation is the ongoing acceptance and welcoming of new families, growing our community through the introduction of new voices and viewpoints.

One of the most vital demographics is the young families that imbue JFC with so much energy and activity. Many of us first entered the temple as young parents or as children ourselves. Together, we’ve witnessed our community grow and develop , guided by the early childhood center and religious school. We’ve felt the warm light of a vibrant community, motivated by the educational institutions that are pillars of our temple. Now, it is time to shine that light outwards, bringing our friends and neighbors into the welcoming atmosphere of JFC.

As we enter our 18th or “chai” year of the early childhood center, it is time to look back at how we’ve grown. In the past few years we’ve opened our doors to the entire community, allowing us to reflect the diversity that gives our town its distinct character. We’ve learned so much together, both as Jews and as people who value kindness, creativity, and the cultivation of community. Our incredibly talented staff of educators has grown and developed too, and I find daily reasons to be proud of them.

But we all have a role in the strength of the ECC.

It is time to speak up and let the people in our lives know how much the ECC means to us. Maybe the school or camp introduced your family to the experiential Jewish education that increases opportunities for life-long engagement. Maybe your children have made lasting connections within the JFC and local community through the ECC. Or maybe you yourself have. Whatever our connection is, the way we live our lives and treat each other, makes us ambassadors of this program.

BE AN AMBASSADOR FOR OUR EARLY CHILDHOOD PROGRAMS TELL YOUR FRIENDS, NEIGHBORS AND FAMILY ABOUT OUR WONDERFUL SCHOOL.

Please take a moment to watch our brand new video highlighting out ECC program filmed by Sam and Jeremy Fischer: www.vimeo.com/84398817 All registration information can be found at : jewishfamilycongregation.org

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

February 2014

The Presidents Message

by Glenn Kurlander and Hal Wolkin

Co-Presidents’ Message

There’s an old joke about identity—particularly Jewish identity in modern American culture.

The phone rings on the wall of Mrs. Gerda Weinblatt’s kitchen in her apartment at 303 Avenue S in Brooklyn.

“Mrs. Weinblatt?” a voice says. “I have Worthington Rosecroft, III, of Lakeview Capital, on the line for you. Please hold.”

There’s a pause and then a man’s voice comes on the phone. “Mama,” he says.

“Stanley, is that you?” she asks.

“Yes; of course, Mama, who else would it be? Mama, where were you? It was Christiana’s birthday last night and she so wanted you to come. She kept asking for her grandmother.”

“I was there, Stanley, I was there,” the old lady says.

“What do you mean?”

“Listen, Stanley,” she says. “I left the house at four o’clock. I walked over to the D train. I took it to Fulton Street and walked about three blocks underground to get to the Lexington Avenue IRT. I took that up to 77th Street. I got out. I walked over to Park Avenue. I went into your lobby at 895 Park. I sat there for three hours. Then I went home.”

“What?” he says. “Why on earth didn’t you come upstairs, Mama?”

“I couldn’t remember your name.”

This month, we want to highlight the importance of three matters that are critical to JFC’s identity and which reflect its forward-looking face.

First, we recently celebrated officially the installation of our new Rabbi, Marcus Burstein in two fantastic Shabbat services—one especially for families. It is impossible to overestimate the wonderful impact Rabbi Burstein has had on JFC in just the few short months he’s been our Rabbi. The dynamism, energy and creativity he’s brought to us, delivered with his characteristic warmth, generosity and sensitivity, has been nothing short of remarkable. We hope you were able to share this magnificent celebration of his installation; one that gave us the opportunity to acknowledge all Rabbi Burstein has accomplished in so short a time, reaffirm our essential identity and look optimistically to a bright future under his leadership. We of course owe an immense debt of thanks to the co-Chairs of the search Com-

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

February 2014

The Presidents Message

by Glenn Kurlander and Hal Wolkin

mittee, Michelle Blum and Michael Salpeter, and to all the committee members—Ellen Barth, Ted Bloch, Karen Conti, David Fried, Mindy Hoffman, David Marceau, Roberta Margolis, Meredith Rudin, Barbara Stern and Richard Weiser—who worked so tirelessly to find the perfect Rabbi for JFC. Second, we hope you have explored JFC’s beautiful new website, brought to us through the talented efforts of web guru Laurence Furic. Our new website provides a fantastic virtual representation of how special JFC is, while serving as the portal to information about our history, about all that is going on each week and about our vision of the future. If you haven’t seen it yet, point your browser to http:// www.jewishfamilycongregation.org and prepare yourself for a fantastic experience. Thank you so much, Laurence, for all your hard work: we’re sure everyone will agree with us that you’ve produced something truly special.

Finally, at a recent meeting, the Board of Trustees addressed the question whether to purchase the Reform movement’s new Machzor—“Mishkan HaNefesh: A Machzor for the Days of Awe.” As you’ll recall if you worshipped with us on the second day of Rosh Hashanah, we used the draft version of the new Machzor and received overwhelmingly positive feedback from congregants. The guiding vision for the new Machzor is to create a 21st century prayerbook that, while rooted in tradition and continuity, incorporates the outlook of today’s Reform Jewish community—one that provides accessible guidance and entry to a meaningful liturgical experience, irrespective of whether one prays regularly, is completely new to the expression of Jewish spirituality or, like most of us, falls somewhere in between.

The draft Machzor cures the features in our current Machzor that strike many of us as impediments, while providing thoughtful commentaries and poetic reflections that inspire, challenge and move us to reflect on our history, our identity and our future.

Rabbi Burstein, Cantor Ben David and the Ritual Committee, together with many congregants, have urged us to retire our old Machzorim and acquire the new ones. We’re excited to report that at its last meeting, the Board of Trustees voted unanimously to take a critically important step into the future and acquire the new Machzorim. The Board will now turn to the matter of determining how best to fund the purchase, consistent with its responsibility to be careful financial stewards.

These three matters—individually and together—speak volumes about JFC’s commitment to the future and about the expression of our identity as a dynamic, diverse, forward-looking Reform congregation, celebrating joyously, reflecting and learning at the forefront of technology and renewing our worship while being rooted in tradition and continuity. They reflect a bold and spirited vision of the future, one we hope you share with us.

Glenn Kurlander and Hal Wolkin

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

February 2014

Rabbi Burstein and Cantor Kerry Ben-David very much want to be a part of your significant lifecycle moments. Please speak with them before setting any dates or times for these events so that they can clear their calendars. Please remember that they may not be available at the time you may have already set, so make sure to be in touch with them before details are finalized. Thank you.

Use the Shofar to say...

Happy Birthday, Get Well, Thanks, or I Remember...

Sanctuary Chair Plaque $150 Leaf on Simcha Tree $180 Memorial Board Plaque $450 General Fund Building Fund Caring Committee Fund Social Action Fund Ground Beautification Fund JFC-URJ Camp Fund Molly and Gregory RS Scholership Fund Rabbi Discretionary Fund Music and Choir Fund Religious School Director Fund Early Childhood Center Fund

Vsiting JFC? Please stop by the office to say hello!

Long-time JFC member and teacher

Rona Salpeter

is available to help with: babysitting, before-and-after school driving responsibilities, animal care— & all jobs requiring a loving caring individual! References are available upon request.

Contact Rona at # 914-643-8176.

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

February 2014

Social Action Committee Article

By Debbie Lavin

The date of the next Midnight Run is Saturday, February 22, 2014. We will need volunteers to go on the run, sort and label clothing, make bag dinners and a big pot of hearty soup! The big bin for collection is in the coat closet to right side of oneg room. We ask for the following donations, in MEN’S large sizes only: Pants/jeans Hoodie Belts Shoes/sneakers Toothpaste Disposable razors Washcloths Deodorants Packages of NEW men’s jockey-style briefs underwear

Don’t Miss the Purim Carnival This Year!

Save the Date: Sunday, March 16, 12-2 PM

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

Ritual Committee

February 2014

By Michael Salpeter, Chairman As I am writing this article, both of my children are on the URJ Kesher Birthright trip to Israel. Thanks to today’s technology including the internet, text messaging and face time, we have been able to keep up with their activities on an almost daily basis. For the last seven days of the trip, the American visitors are joined by a small contingent of Israeli soldiers as a means for the participants to connect with local citizens of the same age group.

Both of my children remarked to me how awesome, cool and friendly these young people (three women and six men) are. This is in contrast to the portrayal in the media many times of Israeli soldiers being heartless, cruel individuals who act viciously against innocent Palestinians. After hearing the first-hand experiences of these soldiers, it was no surprise to read that the Jerusalem Post person of the year (similar to what we are accustomed to in Time Magazine) for 2013 is the Israeli soldier. Some of the reasons that Post readers gave for voting this way included: protecting Israeli citizens 24/7 by fighting against terrorism, representing values of bravery and brotherhood; and being role models for all Israelis. Until one travels to Israel, it is difficult if not impossible to fully comprehend the difficult situations that the members of the Israeli Defense Forces are faced with each day.

I strongly recommend that each JFC member family encourage their children during their young adult years to take advantage of the opportunity the URJ Kesher Birthright trip offers to learn what Eretz Yisrael and its inhabitants are all about.

Some of Rabbi Burstein’s Favorite Jewish Websites Starting this month, I will share a few of the Jewish websites I frequent on a regular basis in our weekly eblast.

To begin, I am including my three favorite Jewish websites here. I will share all types of websites that I hope you will find interesting, informative and enjoyable. If you have your own favorite Jewish websites, please feel free to send them to me and I will include them in upcoming editions. www.reformjudaism.org This is the Reform Movement’s website. An incredible amount of information can be found that deals with Jewish holidays, learning, and resources available. You can find information appropriate for all ages and learning levels. www.hebcal.com This website provides Jewish holiday calendars, Hebrew date converters, Shabbat times, and Torah portions. www.mechon-mamre.org Here you will find the complete Hebrew Bible in Hebrew and English.

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

February 2014

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

Religious School 2014-15 Registration

February 2014

Early Discounted Rate Feb. 6-Mar. 6 Regular Rate Mar. 7- Apr. 10 Summer Rate April 11- start of school Go to jewishfamilycongregation.org to learn more and register!!

Oneg Schedule

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

February 2014

The Best of Old World Elegance, Rural Beauty and Modern Amenities Located in a country setting, the newly renovated clubhouse features a stunning ballroom windowed throughout, with panoramic views of a spectacular golf course and surrounding hills.

Parties of all sizes welcome One affair per day Kosher catering available

Salem Golf Club 18 Bloomer Road, North Salem NY 10560 914*669*5485 www.salemgolfclub.org

Notes by

Nancy, Inc.

Nancy Silberstein Invitations and stationery at discount prices tel/fax: 914-232-0835 e-mail: notesbynancy@aol.com www.notesbynancyinvitations.com

Cantor Ben-David is available to our congregants for all life-cycle needs Call/Text: 917-400-4068 Email: cantorbd@aol.com

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

Local Shopping

February 2014

Each time you shop at DeCicco Market , 1 Cross River Plaza, Cross River, NY, tell the cashier you are a JFC member before ringing up your order. JFC will receive a small rebate from your purchases.

Don’t Miss the Upcoming Youth Group Rock Shabbat Friday, February 28 7:30 PM

Your attendance is worth two STARS points for students in Grades K-6!

This is also a Grade 3 Shabbat service!

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

February 2014

Summer Fun

At Jewish Family Congregation REGISTRATION FORM Summer 2014 9:30-12:15 pm

Child’s Name:_________________GenderM/F___Birthdate:________________________ Street Address:_________________________________________________________ Mailing Address:________________________________________________________ Home Phone:____________________ E-mail:____________________________________ Fall 2014 my child will be attending (school name):____________________________ Parent name:_________________ Phone:__________________ Cell:_________________ Parent name:_________________ Phone:__________________ Cell:_________________ Siblings: Name:_________________________birthdate:__________________ Name:_________________________birthdate:_________________ My child will attend JFC Summer Fun:

5 day ($225/wk) 3 day($200/wk) Week of 6/23: _______ ___________ Week of 6/30 XXXXXXXXXXX ___________ no camp 7/3 or 7/4 Week of 7/7: ________ ___________ Week of 7/14: ________ ___________ Week of 7/21: ________ ___________ Week of 7/28: ________ ___________ Week of 8/4 : ________ ___________

The fee for JFC Summer Fun is $225 per week for 5 mornings or $200 per week for 3 mornings $50 per week is due with registration.

Payment is due in full by 4/1/2014

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

February 2014

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

February 2014

Healing and Havdallah Service Saturday, March 1 -- 6-7 pm All of us can use a little extra prayer -- for ourselves, our families, our friends, and our world‌ Join us for a meaningful and brief creative service that combines music, poetry, and prayer.

Rabbi Burstein and Cantor Ben David will lead the congregation in soulful songs and readings.

No sharing aloud is necessary; our presence as a congregation is enough to support one another.

The evening will end with the blessings of Havdallah, the ceremony separating Shabbat from the rest of the week.

We look forward to seeing you at this expressive and moving service.

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

February 2014

February Calendar Sunday

Monday

2

3 -3 Adar 5774

-2 Adar 5774

9 -9 Adar 5774 -1 pm Pomegranate Guild

-4 Adar 5774

-17 Adar 5774 -NO RS -NO ECC -OFFICE CLOSED

23

-18 Adar 5774

-25 Adar 5774

-6 Adar 5774 -7:30 pm Board Meeting

-12 Adar 5774

-19 Adar 5774

-26 Adar 5774

-7 Adar 5774 -7:30 pm Shabbat Services

-27 Adar 5774

15 -15 Adar 5774

21 -21 Adar 5774 -7:30 pm Shabbat Services

27

22 -22 Adar 5774

28 -28 Adar 5774 -7:30 pm Shabbat Services

8

-9:45 am Shabbat Morning Services -10:45 am Jewish BLT

14

20 -20 Adar 5774

-1 Adar 5774 -9:45 am Shabbat Morning Services -10:45 am Jewish BLT -8 pm Comedy Night

1

-8 Adar 5774

-14 Adar 5774 -7:30 pm Shabbat Services -NO ECC

-13 Adar 5774 -NO RS

26

Saturday

7

13

19

25

Friday

6

12

18

24 -24 Adar 5774

5

11

17

Thursday

-5 Adar 5774

-11 Adar 5774

-10 Adar 5774

-16 Adar 5774 -NO RS

Wednesday

4

10

16

-23 Adar 5774

Tuesday

-9:45 am Shabbat Morning Services -10:45 am Jewish BLT -7 pm Midnight Run

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

February 2014

Date: December 11, 2013 To: The Community Center of Northern Westchester Dear Representative: Enclosed please find a charitable donation payable to your organization, in the amount of $142. The funds were collected by the Religious School Kids Knesset (student government) at our synagogue as a part of our tzedakah program. The proceeds came from a school-wide bake sale that was run on several dates and supported by many of our families at Jewish Family Congregation.

We hope these funds in addition to the groceries being dropped off today with this check will help many families to enjoy some special holiday meals this season.

We hope this modest contribution will help The Community Center to pursue its worthy mission now and in the future.

Thank you.

Yours truly,

Leslie Gottlieb, Director of Education

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

February 2014

Early Bird Discounted Registration 1/1/14—2/14/14 Early Childhood Center at JFC!

We proudly offer programs that emphasize our philosophy of child-centered & engaging curriculum plus flexible schedules.

Please call to schedule a tour!

Jane Weil Emmer, Director 111 Smith Ridge Road South Salem, NY 10590

www.jewishfamilycongregation.org

(914) 763-3028

Two’s program Monday & Wednesday 9:15—12:00 pm Optional Friday with emphasis on Jewish Culture

Three’s & Four’s program Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday 9:15—12:00 pm PLUS Optional Friday

with emphasis on Jewish Culture

South Salem Enrichment Pre-K extension Monday & Wednesday 12:00-2:30

Summer Fun Monday-Friday June 23-August 8, 2014 Weekly Sign Up 9:30-12:00 pm

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

Donations Early Childhood Center Joyce Rudnick in honor of the engagement of Jane Emmer and Stu Tygert General Fund Roberta Margolis in memory of Freda and Bernard Shuler JFC-URJ Camp Fund Andy and Joan Farber in honor of Rabbi Marcus Burstein’s installation High Holy Day Appeal Richard Auerbach Rabbi Discretionary Fund Michael and Rona Salpeter in honor of Rabbi Marcus Burstein’s installation Roberta Margolis in honor of Rabbi Marcus Burstein’s installation Michael and Naomi Feinkind in honor of Rabbi Marcus Burstein’s installation Julian and Arlene Burstein in honor of Rabbi Marcus Burstein’s installation

February 2014

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

February 2014

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

MB TUTORING Hundreds of students helped to excel

Malcolm Brown MIT Chemical Engineer B.S., M.S.

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Science • Chemistry  Physics • Earth Science For further information, contact: Telephone: (914) 533-5468 E-mail: malcolmbro@aol.com Registered State tutoring. Serving Westchester and Fairfield

Anniversaries David & Carrie Kane

February 2014

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Birthdays

Elizabeth Amerling Kase Aufsesser Kenneth Aufsesser Karina Barth Seth Begun Blake Berg Lowell Berg Brian Besterman Lisa Block Joshua Blum Zander Bolgar Peter Breslin Michael Carson Ellie Carter Jennifer Carter Rosie Ceisler Jillian Chipman Jeff Dodes Ethan Falconer Guss Firestein

Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

Victoria Friedman Leah Alana Friedman Iris Glass Steve Goldberg Ellen Goldstein Iliana Hellinger Jacob Hellinger Drew Hoffman Eugene Kahn Carrie Kane David Kane Zachary Kessler Adam Kirker Ryan Kirker Hannah Klotz Benjamin Kurlander Yvonne Lerner Paula Levine Claire Lichtman

February 2014

Catherine Lipper Ian Marceau Robi Margolis Daniel Minnock Morgan Minnock Johanna Perlman Adam Portnoy Joel Portnoy Sandy Radin Zeke Rogen Aviva Salpeter Danielle Schwartz Auerbach Alan Sheptin Zachary Sheptin Rebecca Stadlen Eli Tubbs Pia Vandervelden Michael Waxman Michael Wein Laurie Wolkin

Yahrzeits Bessie Belsky Kenneth Bernhardt Joseph Drawec Judith Eydenberg Sarah Feldman Walter Goldman John Grzymala

Miriam Isaacs Felicia Israel-Mucciolo Ruth Kahn Frances Klotz Charlene Lavin Philip Levens

Solomon Lichtbach Stephen Margolis Irving Reichenthal Jacob Stern Arthur Stoll Norton Worster

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Jewish Family Congregation Shofar

February 2014

Pomegranate Guild of Judaic Needlework Sunday February 9, 1 -3 pm Jewish Family Congregation, 111 Smith Ridge Road South Salem, NY 10590 Jere Moskovitz (Westport,CT), Amy Fischer (South Salem, NY), and Cantor Deborah Katchko-Gray (Ridgefield,CT), have something in common. They love Judaic crafts, needlework and art projects. Creating kippot, tallitot, and challah covers open up an entire world of creativity, Jewish love of ritual, and spirituality.

The group is named for the fruit that is one of the “seven species” in the Bible. The pomegranate, said to have 613 seeds symbolic of the 613 mitzvot, provides a colorful theme for many of the guild’s designs.

The Pomegranate Guild has chapters all over the United States and several other countries including Australia, Israel, and England.

The Guild website: www.pomegranateguild.org notes that when members sit down to stitch, “They are reviving Jewish traditions…Some create their works as heirlooms for their children; others stitch to recreate memories of ceremonial objects of perhaps of family members lost in the Holocaust.” You don’t have to be Jewish to join, you don’t have to be a woman. All are welcome! All levels are welcome- beginner to expert. We are interested in sharing and learning from each other.

If you love stitching, quilting, appliqué, anything done with a needle and thread please join us on Sunday, February 9 from 1-3pm at Jewish Family Congregation, 111 Smith Ridge Road, South Salem 10590 www.jewishfamilycongregation.org Refreshments will be served. Please bring one of your favorite finished projects and one you are working on to share. Contact Amy Fischer at amyfischer4@gmail.com with any questions.

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Do you have 1-2 hours to spare each month?

JFC could use your help!

On a regular basis, we would love to have your input and help with several projects. We can arrange some activities to fit your schedule, depending on when you are available. Please see below for ways that you might be able to contribute to making our congregation flourish: .

Back Up Oneg Shabbat Hosts – Unexpected events come up in everyone’s life, and sometimes that includes our Oneg Shabbat hosts. If you sign up, we may call you from time to time to see about filling in for a family who cannot host the Oneg Shabbat.

Location: At JFC on a Friday night. Expected time commitment needed: 60 minutes on a Friday during the day, 90 minutes Friday night.

Graphic Designing – In order to reach our members and the greater community, we like to create informative and attractive flyers. Help us design publicity for recurring and one-time events. Location: At JFC or at home. Expected time commitment needed: 60 minutes.

Librarian - Are you very organized? Do you know your ABC’s backward and forward? We could use a little help tidying up our library, as well as creating some publicity to let other members of JFC learn about our literary treasures. No official library experience is needed.

Location: At JFC. Expected time commitment needed: As much or as little time as you can give.

Babysitting Co-ordinator: Schedule babysitters for the first and third Fridays of the month. Remind babysitters the Thursday before. Be the contact for last minute cancellations and schedule replacement.

Expected time commitment needed: 1 hour total per month.

Don't forget to stop in and check out the JFC Gift Shop! If you are interested in purchasing anything, please let the JFC office now.

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Torah Chanters Wanted

February 2014

Would you like to chant torah on a Friday night or Saturday morning? Maybe it is the anniversary of your bar or bat mitzvah ceremony, or maybe you would like to learn from a new section of the torah. Either way, we will help provide you with the tools to succeed! You can chant as few as three verses – maybe you will get together with a family member or friend to make it a special Shabbat for all of you? We look forward to celebrating with you…

To volunteer and/or to see which dates are available, please be in touch with Rabbi Burstein: rabbi@ jewishfamilycongregation.org

Todah Rabah to: Pat Shafer for getting our water system running again after the deep freeze Religious School Committee, Rabbi Burstein, Cantor Ben David, Laurence Furic, Carol Wakeman and Kathleen Sakowicz for all their help with the JFC-Newtown event The speakers from Newtown, CT, for their participation in our January event The Youth Group for its help planning and leading last month’s Rock Shabbat Religious School class parents for their help organizing Onegei Shabbat this year JFC Choir for their participation in Shabbat Shira Jonathan Gabor and Laurence Furic for chanting torah in January

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Application for 2014-15 School Year Child’s Name _________________________________________________ Gender ________Date of Birth ___________________________________ Home Street Address____________________________________________ Mailing Address ________________________________________________ Town/State/Zip Code___________________________________________ Home Phone __________________________________________________ Parent Name___________________________________________________ Cell Phone ______________ email address __________________________ Parent Name___________________________________________________ Cell Phone ______________ email address __________________________ Siblings:

Please 2’s 3’s 4’s

Name: _______________________ birthdate_____ Name: _______________________ birthdate_____ Name: _______________________ birthdate_____

Check One: Circle Days : 2 day _________ 3 day__________ ( M,W & F 9:15 - 12:00) 4 day _________

( M,T,W & F 9:15 - 12:00) 4 day _________ ( M,T,W & F 9:15 - 12:00)

Tuition Information $250 Non refundable registration fee must accompany this form.

Tuition is as follows: 2 day 2 payments of $ 1,400 due 6/1 and 9/1/2013 total tuition 3 day 3 payments of $ 1,400 due 6/1, 9/1 and 11/1/2013 4 day 3 payments of $ 1,800 due 6/1, 9/1 and 11/1/2013 (3’s & 4’s)

Total Tuition $ 2,800.00 $ 4,200.00 $ 5,400.00

Early Drop-Off and Extended day also available call Jane Emmer 914-325-9065 for more information.

February 2014

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Non Profit Organization Postage PAID White Plains, NY Permit No. 9022

Current Resident Or

February 2014

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February 2014