Maimonides Scholarship Tribute Journal

Celebrating integrated wholesome education at the Maimonides School this year on the day that a divided Jerusalem was reunited

Annual Scholarship Tribute Dinner TRIBUTE JOURNAL & YEARBOOK 5774 / 2013-2014

Scholarship Page

With Appreciation and continuing Support to Maimonides Hebrew Day School We recognize the accomplishments of the Administration, Teachers and Talmidim

Ariella and Avi Losice

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This Year in Jerusalem!

Perfect Timing! Our annual Scholarship Tribute Dinner coincides this year with “Yom Yerushalayim,” the 28th of Iyar which marks the auspicious anniversary of the Reunification of Jerusalem in 1967.

We all rise when opening the Holy Ark in the Synagogue, to sing in unison and proclaim: “Ki Mitziyon…u’Devar Hashem m’Yerushalayim.” Our Maimonides School is indeed like a “mini Jerusalem” from which words of Torah ripple forth and emanate to benefit the entire Capital Region Community.

The Hebrew word “Shalem” of “Jerusalem” also means ‘whole and integrated,’ a very fitting description of the wholesome and integrated Jewish and secular studies offered at Maimonides.

Psalm 122 featured on this journal’s back cover, speaks of David’s joy in going up to the House of G-d, reflected in our students’ and faculty’s enthusiasm for coming to school each day with whole-hearted participation & investment.

The same Psalm states “Our feet stood within your gates” as those present at tonight’s event celebrate within the very walls of this House of Study. And as it says “for the sake of my brethren and friends” for we are indeed among friends.

In this Jerusalem-themed Journal our student and faculty chose Jerusalem verses and quotations as photo-captions as we reflect on this year’s school pictures, as well as a creative imitation of Naomi Shemer’s inspiring “Jerusalem of Gold.”

May all our joint efforts and collective dedication for quality local Jewish & General Studies education and community building (as Psalm 122 states: “a built up Jerusalem is like a city united together”) bring us yet closer to “Next year in Jerusalem!”

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Maimonides Hebrew Day School annually awards the Dr. Morton Berger Memorial Award to an individual who typifies the character, leadership and compassion of Dr. Berger.

A leader in the Capital Region’s Jewish community and a nationally renown psychologist, “Morty” was the husband of Hope, and father to Linda, Howard and Alan.

Dr. Berger was a founding member of the Hebrew Academy of the Capital District, a long-time member of Cong. Shomray Torah, active in the community and an inspiration to many individuals.

Professionally, Dr. Berger was Dean of the Freukauf Graduate School of Psychology at Yeshiva University and an adjunct professor at Albany Medical College. He passed away tragically on the 28th of Nissan, 5748 - April 15th, 1988.

Dr. Berger’s achievements and activities were characterized by his intelligence, insight and compassion. Even though he is no longer with us, his memory, character and teachings continue to live on with us forever.

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RABBI MOSHE & KAREN MIRSKY Rabbi Moshe & Karen Mirsky are Maimonides parents for the past decade. Rabbi Mirsky taught Judaic studies, served on the Board of Education and Board of Directors and Karen was active in the Parent Association.

Rabbi Moshe and Karen Mirsky served as Rabbi and Rebbitzin of Congregation Beth Israel of Schenectady for the past ten years. In 2012 they were awarded the Gemilut Chasadim award at the congregation's annual dinner. Rabbi Mirsky also served on the Boards of the Jewish Federation of Northeastern New York, the Schenectady Jewish Community Center and has served as Vice President of the Capital District Board of Rabbis. He taught at HACD, JERNY and the Schenectady Midrasha and has served as a Mashgiach for the Vaad Hakashruth of the Capital District.

Rabbi Mirsky earned his BA in Psychology from Yeshiva University and his Rabbinical ordination from the Rabbi Isaac Elchanan Theological Seminary of Yeshiva University. Karen Mirsky served as President of the Beth Israel Sisterhood and is a member of the Board of Directors of the B'nai Brith. Karen, who graduated Benjamin N. Cordozo School of Law of Yeshiva University, is an active member of the Veterans Benefits Committee of the New York State Bar Association. She is also a licensed real estate agent. She also designed several Jewish themed displays for the Schenectady JCC. Their son Shmuel Dovid celebrated his Bar-Mitzvah this month in Schenectady.

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BERNIE (OBM) & REEVA NOWITZ Bernard “Bernie” Nowitz’ family moved from the Bronx to Troy in 1942. He graduated from Troy High and Albany College of Pharmacy. Reeva grew up in Cohoes & graduated from Shaker High & Russell Sage with a degree in Education.

Bernie and Reeva built Burns Pharmaceuticals of Rensselaer for 24 years. Upon selling the business, they devoted more time to area organizations. They were active at Temple Beth El in Troy, each serving as president. Beth El was a part of Bernie’s life since he was a child, as an adult he directed its religious activities until his passing. Reeva continues as member of the Cemetery Committee.

Bernie loved being Jewish and loved being a Pharmacist, and continued to study both throughout his life. He was a Fellow of American College of Apothecaries, and American Society of Consultant Pharmacists. Upon retirement he worked for NYS Health Dept., Medicaid Fraud Unit, Whitney Young Health Center, and volunteered at the Schenectady Free Clinic. Bernie ‘mentored’ many pharmacy students. His involvement in the Jewish Community included HIAS, UJFNENY Grants Committee, JFS, and the V’aad Ha Kashruth, Chairperson of TBE Religious Committee, and a Lay Chaplain, visiting nursing homes & prisons in upstate NY. He traveled to the former Soviet Union on a HIAS mission, and twice to Israel with Volunteers for Israel. Upon Bernie’s passing, Reeva arranged for his extensive Judaic Library to be housed at Maimonides, so the books could continue to be used and cherished.

A life member of B’nai Brith Women, Hadassah, Daughters of Sarah Auxiliary, and a Lion of Judah of the Federation, Reeva is a past member of the Daughter’s of Sarah Foundation Board, past president of Temple Beth El & its Sisterhood.

Her UJA involvement dates back to Women’s Division leadership of the Troy UJA campaign, recently as past president of Women’s Division of the UJFNENY, and currently as co-chair for Women’s Philanthropy. Reeva’s interest in the future of area cemeteries led to form the Albany Jewish Cemetery Association, and she hopes that others join her effort.

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DR. MADHAVI SAHAY Born, raised and educated in India, Dr. Madhavi Shahay moved to the United States in 2004, and started teaching Math & Science at Maimonides middle & high school in September of 2005. "I thoroughly enjoy every moment at Maimonides. Teaching is my passion and I have proudly been doing it for 25 years.

My goal is to spark educational enthusiasm, and motivate students to learn and understand the knowledge that surrounds them. Besides teaching, I enjoy painting, listening & playing music, cooking & exercising."

Amongst Maimonides students and parents (as well as Maimonides weekly “MC� Newsletter readers) Dr. Sahay is known and beloved for her many handson scientific experiments and projects, that engage our middle and high school students, sparking interest and enthusiasm for scientific inquiry and exploration, research and study, and emphasize practical real-life application.

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by Naomi Shemer

‫אויר הרים צלול כיין‬ ‫וריח אורנים‬ ‫נישא ברוח הערביים‬ .‫עם קול פעמונים‬ ‫ובתרדמת אילן ואבן‬ ‫שבויה בחלומה‬ ‫העיר אשר בדד יושבת‬ ‫ובליבה חומה‬

The mountain air is clear as water The scent of pines around Is carried on the breeze of twilight, And tinkling bells resound.

The trees and stones there softly slumber, A dream enfolds them all.

So solitary lies the city, And at its heart -- a wall.

‫ירושלים של זהב‬ ‫ושל נחושת ושל אור‬ ‫הלא לכל שירייך‬ ...‫אני כינור‬

Chorus: Yerushalayim shel zahav Veshel nechoshet veshel Ohr Halo lechol shirayich Ani kinor.

Oh, Jerusalem of gold, and of light and of bronze, for all your songs, I am the lute.

‫חזרנו אל בורות המים‬ ‫לשוק ולכיכר‬ ‫שופר קורא בהר הבית‬ .‫בעיר העתיקה‬ ‫ובמערות אשר בסלע‬ ‫אלפי שמשות זורחות‬ ‫נשוב נרד אל ים המלח‬ .‫בדרך יריחו‬

The wells are filled again with water, The square with joyous crowd, On the Temple Mount within the City, The shofar rings out loud.

Within the caverns in the mountains A thousand suns will glow, We'll take the Dead Sea road together, That runs through Jericho.

‫אך בבואי היום לשיר לך‬ ‫ולך לקשור כתרים‬ ‫קטונתי מצעיר בנייך‬ .‫ומאחרון המשוררים‬ ‫כי שמך צורב את השפתיים‬ ‫כנשיקת שרף‬ ‫אם אשכחך ירושלים‬ ‫אשר כולה זהב‬ ...‫ירושלים של זהב‬

But as I sing to you, my city, And you with crowns adorn, I am the least of all your children, Of all the poets born.

Your name will scorch my lips for ever, Like a seraph's kiss, I'm told, If I forget thee, all-golden city, Jerusalem of gold.

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by Rabbi Rubin and the High School English Class We hesitate to copy or emulate, Naomi’s genius and style; A harpist’s sweet melody Her inspiring literary spirit Stirred Six Day Victory euphoria.

Our ultimate mission and vision Not just a geographic location Our holiest site Around which all else revolves Our Destination and our dream Forever in our hopes

Jerusalem is now seen From opposing perspectives In the international scene.

Accused, threatened and challenged They claim we’re no longer gold, We now need “Jerusalem of Bold.”

“Next year in Jerusalem!”

These words we cry at the climax of Yom Kippur and the Passover Seder: “Soon in the streets of Jerusalem, Voices of joy, sounds of gladness Rejoice O' Bride and Groom!”

Who needs enemies, when fair-weather friends Criticize and find fault; Abandoning Israel to fend for itself Among the world’s 70 wolves.

These rough lines are no match To the spiritual beauty of Naomi’s exquisite poetry; But we need firm strength And courage to continue today As “Jerusalem of Bold.”

We may be distant At the ends of earth, But turn to Jerusalem to pray; Yehuda Halevi said it best, “My heart’s in the east, And I’m in the west.”

Middle of the Middle East The splendor of Jerusalem stands A lighthouse for the world For all to see Never to be extinguished We stand strong and bold.

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Maimonides Hebrew Day School gratefully acknowledges the generous Legacy Learning Labs Challenge Grant provided by Legacy Heritage Fund to upgrade our Library & Technology.

With the Foundation’s help, our students are working in a new library with updated equipment and are being instructed in the latest technology. The Legacy Learning Labs Challenge Grant has enabled our school to make the leap into the 21st century.

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Nursery sings Chanukah Songs

‫ּו ְל ַמעַן יְרּושָׁ לַ ִַם ֹלא אֶ שְ קֹוט‬ “For the sake of Jerusalem I will not be silent!” (Isaiah 62:1)

They all dressed as police-men for Purim

‫חֹומ ֹתַ יְִַך יְרּושָׁ לַ ִַם ִַה ְפקַדְ תִַ י שֹמ ְִַרים‬-‫עַל‬ “Upon your walls, O’ Jerusalem, I posted guardians…” (Isaiah 62:6) Pointing the Way! Following General Stark’s lead at the Bennington Monument

‫יכוין את לבו כנגד ירושלים‬ “We focus our hearts in prayer toward Jerusalem.” (Talmud Brachos 30a) 12

An inspirational illuminating farbrengen get-together in the High School

‫יְרּושָׁ לַ ִַם ַבנֵּרֹות‬-‫אֲ ַחפֵּׂש אֶת‬ “I will search Jerusalem with candles.” (Zephania 1:12) Trying out home-made paper Shofars to start the new year on a High-Note

‫שופר קורא בהר הבית בעיר העתיקה‬ “A Shofar blast calls out on the Temple Mount, in the Old City…”

(Naomi Shemer’s “Yerushalayim Shel Zahav”)

‫ שַ עַר הַשָׁ ָׁמיִַם‬,‫נֹורא ַהמָׁקֹום ַהזֶה… ְוזֶה‬ ָׁ -‫מַה‬ “How awesome is this place (said Jacob after awakening from the ladder dream) this is the gateway to Heaven! (Breishis 28:17) Indeed, that was the site of the future Temple!

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Waldo & Co. a Family Purim costume

Designed from scratch by a HS student, worn by a firstgrader

‫בֹונֵּה יְרּושָׁ לַ ִַם‬

‫ולא אמר אדם לחברו צר לי‬ ‫המקום שאלין בירושלים‬

“(G-d is the) Builder of Jerusalem” (Psalms 147:2)

“No one ever said, there’s not enough room for me to stay in Jerusalem.”

(Talmud Yoma 21a)

Pi in the Talmud, and in Math Class - Rabbi Rubin & Dr. Sahay team up.

‫ָארכָּׁה‬ ְ ‫יְרּושָׁ לַ ִַם ל ְִַראֹות ַכמָׁה ָׁר ְחבָּׁה ְו ַכמָׁה‬-‫ לָׁמ ֹד אֶ ת‬...‫ּו ְביָׁדֹו ֶחבֶל מִַדָׁ ה‬ “Behold I saw a man with a measuring rope… to measure Jerusalem, it’s length and width..” (Zecharia 2:6) But Jerusalem defies physical limitation! (Bava Basra 75b) 14

A Fire-Safety program on “Hillel-Day”

‫ ׂשָׁ ַרף בָׁאֵּש‬... ‫בָׁתֵּ י יְרּושָׁ לַ ִַם‬-‫ וְאֵּ ת כָׁל‬... ‫ה‬-‫בֵּית‬-‫ַויִַׂשְ ר ֹף אֶת‬ “He burned the House of G-d & all the buildings of Jerusalem in fire.” (Kings II 25:10) We continue to try to put that fire out, with Torah, Mitzvot & Jewish continuity!

The expanded Computer Media-Center with all-new equipment makes it a much more productive and busier place for many classroom projects.

‫טּומים‬ ִ ֲ‫וַיַ עַ ׂש לַבָּ יִ ת חַ ּלוֹנֵי ְׁשקֻ ִפים א‬ “And he made for the Temple narrowing windows inward.” (Kings I 6:4) Yes, these new touch-screen computers feature Windows 8, and our new Science Library Media Center has 8 inward windows. And as the Talmud explains (Menachos 86) this verse shows the direction of (our students’) holy light illuminating outward.

.‫אִַ ם ֹלא ַא ֲעלֶה אֶ ת יְרּושָׁ לַ ִַם עַל ר ֹאש ׂשִַ ְמחָׁתִַ י‬ “If I don’t raise Jerusalem above all my joys.”

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Tambourines in Kindergarten’s Splitting Sea

‫ׂשִַ מְחּו אֶ ת יְרּושָׁ לַ ִַם ְוגִַילּו בָּׁה‬ “Be glad with Jerusalem, rejoice in her..”

(Isaiah 66:10)

Not enough snow? Won’t stop us!

...‫ַויִַבֶן ֻעזִַיָׁהּו ִַמגְדָׁ לִַים בִַירּושָׁ לַ ִַם‬ “Uziyahu built towers in Jerusalem” (Divrei HaYamim II 26:9)

Suspension Strength experiment

Lots of waves at a surprise visit from “Uncle Moishy”!

‫שהיא עושה כל ישראל לחברים‬..‫ירושלם הבנויה כעיר שחוברה לה יחדיו‬ “Jerusalem is like a city that is united together” (Psalms 122:3) Rabbi Joshua ben Levi said, this is because Jerusalem is a city that brings all the Jewish People together as friends.

(Jerusalem Talmud Chagigah 3:6) 16

Designed by Middle & HS for American-Jewish Torah, chance for Nursery to get close to Statue of Liberty

‫ בִַירּושָׁ לָׁ ִַם‬...‫ ְו ַהנִַדָׁ חִַים בְאֶ ֶרץ ִַמצ ְָׁריִַם‬,‫ּובָׁאּו הָׁאֹבְדִַ ים בְאֶ ֶרץ אַשּור‬ ”Those lost in Assyria or cast away in Egypt, will come to… Jerusalem!” (Isaiah 27:13)

‫לא חרבה ירושלים אלא בשביל שביטלו בה תינוקות של בית רבן‬ “Jerusalem was destroyed only because school-children ceased to study.” (Shabbos 119b)

...‫הלא לכל שירייך אני כינור‬ “I am the instrument for all your songs…”

(Chorus of Naomi Shemer’s “Yerushalayim shel Zahav”)

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On a Fall Farm Outing, standing among sunflowers‌

Library Time...

As if you left Egypt...

Beading...

Each student shines bright in their own way

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Five Rivers Trip

Siddur Party

Found the Goblet at the Breishis Carnival

Grades 2&3 Chanukah Play

Bike for the Fight

Visit to RPI’s 3-D Printers and Fabricating Lab

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Learning Scientific Measurement in Science Lab

Morah Devorah’s Birthday Party

Treats at the Chanukah Raffle-Auction

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APPS Trip to Miller House Museum in Hoosick Falls NY

Fueling Up, Energized!

Different Hats, Different Wars

at Hemmings Vintage Autos in Bennington VT Making & Serving Soup-of-the-Week

Bear with us as we learn and grow!

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Sports with Sage Coaches

Working on a Maimonides “MC�

Newsletter article

Mixing Things Up!

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Banner painted on same day this letter was quoted in Supreme Court Decision Hi-Tech Visit to Bethlehem Library Fun Friction Experiment

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Visiting Judy, bringing cheer!

with newly elected Pat Fahy and Speaker Silver at the New York State Capitol

preparing for the annual Tu Bishvat Breakfast

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Maimonides is proud to be part of the cutting-edge Digital Jewish Learning Network. This year’s grant from JEP, JESNA & AVI-CHAI allowed for quality computer-based High School courses in graphics design and economics. We look forward to further expanding our digital horizons with additional programs next year.

You mean you don’t get the Maimonides’ “MC” Weekly Newsletter?

This Yearbook/Tribute Journal offers only overview Maimonides glimpse, please keep in touch with us year-’round, with school & communal news, updates & events every Friday for the full picture…

Sign up for email or mail delivery: maimonidesschool@gmail.com 26

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Special Thanks to the BENDER SCIENTIFIC FUND of the Community Foundation of the Capital Region for sponsorship of a new iPad interactive learning lab in the Maimonides Science Library Media Center and for classroom enrichment

With appreciation to the

BOCES School Library System for sharing professional development, student workshops and resources for our new Library Media Center

New at School This Year: MAIMONIDES MIDDOS highlights character lessons in everyday classes shared in the weekly newsletter and also creates an increased focus on life-messages in all classroom subjects.

HIGH-FIVE There’s a new theme each week and students come up with ideas or examples that fits 5 categories of that theme, and is also published in the weekly newsletter.

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MAIMONIDES MOVES A renewed emphasis on encouraging and facilitating physical activity & movement, both during times designated as well as sporadically in unexpected times, too.

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“Their Righteousness is Eternal” (Psalms 112)

Endowments & Bequests help insure Jewish continuity right here in the Capital Region, enabling quality Jewish Education - the secret of Jewish survival.

Maimonides gratefully acknowledges these generous gifts:  Eva Knezek Building Dedication  Yetta Leifer Memorial Bequest  Max & Sophie Hutten Memorial Bequest  Dr. Morton Berger Building Gift Dedicated by Sanford and Dina Rosenblum

 Bnos Chaya Interschool Fund  Nathan Rosenstein Kitchen Dedication  Louis Wineberg Memorial Fund  Dr. Jonathan O’Brien Science Laboratory  Anna Bindell Sewing Center  Mary & Ben Rosenstein Memorial Bequest  Avi Chai Foundation Interest-Free Building Loan  Legacy Heritage Fund for Library-Media Center  Bender Scientific Fund for Science Lab & Media Center “Children’s Torah Study and Mitzvot provide eternal spiritual comfort and merit.” (Talmud) Please remember Maimonides in your will; our children will surely remember you.

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In honor of our dear brother and sister-in-law

Rabbi Moshe and Karen Mirsky Your commitment to kehilla and chinuch is outstanding. We applaud your incredible efforts in spreading Torah and chessed.

Hashem should give you the strength as you embark on your next journey, and grant you much hatzlacha with all your amazing work on behalf of klal yisroel, and much continued nachas from Shmuel Dovid.

Love, Avi and Chana and family Tani and Sora Leah and family Dovid and Chumi and family

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"The finest quality of Man is asking questions."

- Mivchar Hapeninim

Our father, Bernie Nowitz, OBM, excelled in asking questions and seeking knowledge.

The Judaic library that he lovingly cultivated is a tribute to those qualities.

We are pleased to be able to share it with the Maimonides Community.

We thank you for letting his legacy live on.

Sheryl, Tony, Alex and Daniel Klein Abra Nicolle Nowitz

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GREETINGS TO MAIMONIDES HEBREW DAY SCHOOL BEST WISHES FOR CONTINUED SUCCESS! CONGRATULATIONS TO: RABBI MOSHE & KAREN MIRSKY AND DR. MADHAVI SAHAY FOR BEING RECOGNIZED AND HONORED. ON BEHALF OF BERNIE (OBM) ‘IYAR 20, 5772’ AND ME…

Thank You for the “Eitz-Chaim” Award Reeva R. Nowitz

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In memory of Dr. Morton (Meir) Berger Whose ideals and values Continue to inspire us Over 25 years!

‫בכל ביתי נאמן הוא‬

Moshe Losice

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Greetings and congratulations to All of the Maimonides Honorees Over the years, Chazak!

Moshe Losice

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Mazal Tov and Hatzlacha to the participants in this year’s Maimonides Scholarship Tribute for their important role in building and maintaining the Jewish community of the Capital Region.

With eternal gratitude to Hashem, and the faculty, leadership, and supporters of Maimonides Hebrew Day School who have provided for the education and growth of the Torah observant Jewish community of the Capital Region. With wishes for health and hatzlacha for Klal Yisrael.

From 4 generations of the Morgenbesser & Amann family Rosalyn Morgenbesser Rebecca Amann Maxine Morgenbesser, Yaakov & Racheli & Bluma Esther Morgenbesser Shmuel, Pesi, Chana Tzirel, Chaim Nachman, Yael & Shira Ahuva Morgenbesser Avi & Shoshana & Leib Yisrael Morgenbesser and Sarah & Ben Kalish

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MAZEL TOV TO THE GRADUATING SENIORS AND TO MAIMONIDES ON A SUCCESSFUL YEAR

The Chaiken family

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In fond remembrance of BERNIE NOWITZ Z”L & In honor of REEVA NOWITZ A caring, thoughtful friend who volunteers her time and resources for many Jewish organizations

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Mazal Tov & Best wishes to RABBI MOSHE & KAREN MIRSKY We are grateful for your decade of service to our community & we will miss you as you move to your new home

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In memory of our beloved DR. BERNARD TEITELMAN Z”L His love for Torah, Education and Chesed was an inspiration for us all.

May we be zoche to continue his beautiful legacy.

Joyce Larry, Nehama, Sara, Yael, Atara, Yedida, Temima & Binyamin Elana, Zvi, Adira, Yair, Naftali & Dovid Howie, Meital, Yehuda, Tiferet, Ahava, Tehila & Maayan 45

“DAF YOMI” “Daf Yomi” is a study program to familiarize the Jewish people with the Babylonian Talmud by having students in the entire world learn the same page of Talmud each day, continuing page by page until completion. We review the entire Talmud in seven and a half years.

We are currently studying tractate “Rosh Hashanah" about the Jewish New Year and the Annual Calendar Please join us for the upcoming “Siyum” Celebrations of tractate “Rosh Hashana” on June 12th and tractate “Taanis” on July 12th.

All are welcome to study with us.

We have nothing to lose but our ignorance.

Learning Torah brings peace to the world.

You are very welcome to join us at the times and places listed below:

Cong. Beth Abraham-Jacob 380 Whitehall Road Monday - Friday 6am

Cong. Shomray Torah 463 New Scotland Ave

Saturday 50 minutes before sundown

Sunday 8:45am

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‫תלמוד גדול שהתלמוד מביא לידי מעשה‬ Great is study because study leads to good actions (Talmud Tractate Kiddushin 40b)

Thank you Maimonides Hebrew Day School for bestowing upon us this distinguished award Thank you for teaching our son and the Jewish children of the Capital Region the ways of Torah With salute our co-honorees Bernard (OBM) and Reeva Nowitz and Dr. Madhavi Sahay May Maimonides go from strength to strength!

Rabbi Moshe and Karen Mirsky

Dear Rabbi Mirsky, We wish success and fulfillment to you and your family as you move to your new position and community. So many in the Capital District have benefited from your wise, calm presence, your teaching of Torah and your menshlikhkeit. We thank you for all of your contributions and we will miss you.

May you go from strength to strength.

Kol tuv and best wishes from your colleagues of the Capital District Board of Rabbis

Madhavi Sahay, PhD a well-deserved tribute excellence in education an educator of the highest professional standards from Marcia Rosenfield General Studies Principal 2004-2013

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Congregation Beth Israel of Schenectady Congratulations to our beloved Rabbi and Rebbetzin

Rabbi Moshe and Karen Mirsky upon receiving the prestigious Dr. Morton Berger Memorial Award from the Maimonides Hebrew Day School recognizing their dedication to Jewish education and their leadership in the Capital District Jewish community.

President-Dr. James Strosberg Sisterhood President-Anne Deiber

Mazal Tov and all good wishes to Rabbi Moshe and Karen Mirsky and to each of the honorees Michael and Sylvia Solomon 48

Congratulations and best wishes to the Maimonides School and all the honorees Ken and Nancie Segel 49

CHAIM, As you graduate from 8th Grade, we are very proud of your accomplishments, and we are sure that you will use your talents and abilities to give nachas to your family, your teachers, and the Rebbe.

Love, Mommy and Totty

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Sincerest Congratulations to Rabbi Moshe and Karen Mirsky on this occasion Jacob and Irene Judd

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To Rabbi Rubin, Morah Rochel and all the teachers and staff at Maimonides Hebrew Day School.

Thank you for your dedication to our kinderlach.

From Rabbi Yitzchok, Leah Hecht and Family

We support the good work of Maimonides.

Congregation Agudas Achim in Kingston

Chabad of Ulster County salutes the Rubin Family and Maimonides for a job well done!

Congratulations to Rabbi & Mrs. Mirsky

T.J. LOEHR

Screened Quality Topsoil Barkmulch, Stone, Shale

393-6893 52

We extend a hearty Mazel Tov to our dear Rabbi Moshe and Karen on the occasion of this well deserved honor for your exemplary inspiration, tireless efforts and continued dedication to Klal Yisroel.

We shep much nachas and joy from you and your wonderful Shmuel Dovid Love, Aaron & Eva Mirsky, Avi & Chana Mirsky, Tani & Sora Leah Mirsky, Dovid & Chumi Mirsky

Nosal Memorials 2457 Hamburg St. (Rt. 146) Schenectady, NY 12303 (518) 355-2595 www.nosalmemorials.net

Nosal Memorials would like to congratulate Rabbi Moshe Mirsky and his wife Karen for receiving the Dr. Morton Berger Memorial Award Let us help you design a memorial of enduring quality within your family budget. Stop in & visit our office or call to set up an appointment. Visit our website or like us on Facebook.

All our monuments are fully guaranteed and are made from the finest granites. Designed, carved and finished by the best craftsmen in Vermont and around the world.

We will help you personalize and design a monument of everlasting quality. We invite you to compare our prices and value before making this lasting decision. Our office hours are: Mon. to Fri. 10:30am-5:00pm 53

Shabbos House salutes & appreciates the MAIMONIDES SCHOOL as a hub & beacon of Jewish life, learning & community in the Capital Region.

Dear Mushky and Moshe, Congratulations on your Graduation!

You now enter the next station of your Torah Education!

You transcended limitations Success without frustration Even in a small population.

Mazal Tov to this year’s Honorees

You enrich our civilization with dignity and determination, A beacon of light to the Jewish nation!

SHABBOS HOUSE

Rabbi Mendel & Raizy Rubin, Directors

Rohr Chabad Jewish Student Center Serving UAlbany since 1976

Bubby and Zaidy Rubin

www.shabboshouse.com

Mazel Tov to Rabbi and Mrs Mirsky and Shmuel Dovid!

We will miss you!

Mazal Tov to Mushky for graduating High School and Moshe for graduating 8th grade You have grown and blossomed and done very well. We are so proud of you!

Mazel tov to all the Honorees!

Special thanks to Dr. Sahay for making science come alive at Maimonides and for being an excellent math teacher.

A huge thank you to Morah Devorah, Mrs. Carrol, Morah Devorah Leah, Rabbi Yossi and Mrs. Kaufman for providing a quality education for Mendel & Yitzchak!

Thank you to the faculty, administration and school supporters for making such wonderful quality education possible even in a small Jewish community. with much appreciation,

Rabbi Shmuly & Laiky Rubin

Rabbi Mendel and Raizy Rubin and Family

Chabad at Union College

54

Best Wishes from

In appreciation to the Maimonides School and in honor of its many worthy honorees over the years

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specializing in all aspects of remodeling

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Our Jewish Newspaper

Mazel Tov to Dr Sahay and thank you for teaching the Backman Bunch through the years.

(518) 344-7018 1635 Eastern Parkway, Schenectady 12309

Continue the good work!

SARATOGA CHABAD

www.saratogachabad.com

55

For Deborah Stark In admiration of all that you do.

We love you!

Love, Deena, Shlomo, Aliza & Emma

Capital Chabad salutes the Maimonides School and its honorees

Thank you to Dr. Sahay for her lending her talent and expertise to the Maimonides teaching faculty.

Our children have learned so much from you!

The Levin Family

Capital Chabad

Serving the community since 1974 www.capitalchabad.com 56

Congratulations to all the graduates and honorees

In honor of Chaim and his parents Mr. & Mrs. Ruvain & Shayna Kudan

Rabbi Nachman and Clara Simon

from Rabbi & Mrs. Harold Kudan

Mazal Tov Maimonides Congratulations to all your honorees -In honor of Rabbi Moshe & Karen Mirsky, true pillars of our community, you will be missed.

--In memory of Bernie Nowitz, whose goodness knew no boundaries.

To Rabbi & Mrs. Yisroel Rubin and the Maimonides Faculty for all their selfless dedication to the Chinuch of our children.

Itche & Dini Gordon and Family

Rabbi Yaakov & Lisa Kellman 57

We have so much gratitude to the Maimonides staff, Morah Rivkah, Morah Stephanie, Morah Devorah and Mrs. Carroll for teaching our children, Ari and Akiva, and welcoming them in with open arms.

Thank you so much for all that you've done and continue to do!

Dear Chaim, Mazel tov on this incredible milestone! We are so proud of you! May you continue to give Mommy, Totty, and the Rebbe much nachas!!

LOL (Lots of Love), Your brothers and the sisterhood

Love the Horan Family

Mazal Tov to the graduates and the teachers!

Grateful thanks to the Maimonides Family for a great year from the Wolks!

Leibel & Elisheva Morrison

58

Thank you to Rabbi and Rebetzin Rubin & the extended Maimonides family for all you do for our family.

We would like to thank the school for a wonderful education for Moshe, Chaya and Chana Malka

Rabbi Abba & Raizel Rubin

Itkin Family

Mazal Tov to Chaya and Azriel Laber on your graduation!

Congratulations to this year's honorees and graduates!

May you go ‫מחיל לחיל‬ and always have ‫הצלחה‬ in all you do!

We are so proud of your accomplishments.

May you go from strength to strength!

All the best from the Kochman Family.

59

We Love You! Tatty, Mommy, Chana, Shaina, Raizel, Rivkah, Mendel, Yehuda, Schneur & Baruch Mordechai

In Honor of all the Maimonides & Bnos Chaya High School Friendship Circle Volunteers!

Thank you to all the teachers and staff of Maimonides who create the ultimate environment for our children to learn and grow

Thank you for all that you do to enrich the lives of children!

Much appreciation, Rabbi Shimon & Liba Andrusier & The Friendship Circle

The Hecht Family Rhinebeck NY

A tremendous Yasher Koach to Rabbi Rubin & Morah Rochel for all of your efforts and Mesiras-Nefesh for Maimonides School and a big thank you to all of our children’s dedicated and devoted teachers!

Mazel Tov Mushky, Moshe and the Class of 2014!

Love, Sheryl & Aron

with much appreciation, The Andrusier Family 60

Mazal Tov to the Honorees

Thank you to all the teachers for the incredible job that you have done over the years of educating our children.

Hatzlacha and Mazal Tov to Rabbi Moshe & Karen Mirsky you have left a great impact on the community We miss you Maimonides Friends!

Joshua & Rebekah Wildman Beth & Lewis Gray & Family

Congratulations to the students of Bnos Chaya High School on completion of another great school year!

Thank you Morah Rivkah, Morah Stephanie, Morah Devorah, Morah Devora Leah, Rabbi Shmuly, Morah Clara, Morah Rochel, Rabbi Mendy, Mrs. Carroll and Mrs. Maher for a great school year!

A special Mazal Tov to Mushky Rubin & Chaya Laber on your graduation!

You are an inspiration to us all! May you continue to grow from strength to strength!

Mussie, Mendel, Chaiki & Esther Rubin- Clifton Park

Rabbi Yossi & Leyee Rubin 61

Thank you Rabbi Moshe & Karen Mirsky, Bernard (obm) & Reeva Nowitz & Dr. Madhavi Sahay for all you do for Maimonides and our community!

Mazal Tov to all the Honorees

Hope Berger-Nathan and Family

Yasher Koach, Ellen & Jack Kaplowitz

Congratulations to the Honorees.

Congratulations Madhavi!

We salute you and your incredible work ethic!

Best wishes to Rabbi Mirsky and family in their new direction.

You make learning an adventure!

Lorin Carroll Katie Hoffman Micah Gray Mary Maher Abby Ramsay

Roslyn Weiss

62

Greetings and Congratulations

Thank you to the faculty at Maimonides for creating a loving environment for our son.

Rabbi Zalman & Chanie Simon

From the bottom of our hearts we wanted to thank Rabbi and Rebbetzin Rubin, Morah's Rivkah, Stephanie, Dini, and Mrs. Hoffman.

We continue to be blown away by the incredible amount of material our children are learning, and more importantly we are delighted by the tremendous ahavas HaTorah and ahavas haMitzvos that Maimonides has imbued within our children.

We can't thank you enough!

Mazal Tov Maimonides Hebrew Day School!

Thank you Rabbi and Mrs. Rubin for all you do for the Albany Jewish Community and beyond!

With much appreciation, Levi and Sara Volovik

Danny & Sara Wolfe 63

Mazel Tov to our Dear Grandson Moshe upon your Graduation: May you always be a source of Yiddishe & Chassidishe Nachas to the Rebbe and the entire family! Hatzlacha Rabah!

Mazal Tov Amiel on your 8th grade graduation!

May you continue to keep climbing in your Torah learning to great heights!

We are so proud of you!

We love You!

To Our Dear Granddaughter Mushky.

Mazel Tov upon your Graduation! May you realize you Goals, fulfill your Dreams, and know the Joys of Success!

Imma, Chaim, Calev, Adina, Yakira, Maytal, Gammy and Papa Much thanks and gratitude to Rabbi & Mrs. Rubin and all the MHDS teachers!

Love Always!

Zaidy & Bubby Galperin, Mendel & Sara

Dear Chaim,

Mazel tov to our niece and nephew and classmates, You’ll go from strength to strength Because you have the greatest tools and Hashem’s blessing!

We're so proud of you.

May you continue to go from strength to strength!

Love, Uncle Mike and Aunt Sandy

-Devora Leah and Mendy Yosher Koach Rabbi Mirksy, Rebbetzin Mirsky and Shmual Dovid, on your move! We thank you for all your have done for the community and for us both.

We look forward to seeing you in your new home soon, iy"H!

www.KathySheehan.com

LOVE,Dr. Michelle Friedman Safier and Dr. Pinchas Safier 64

Mazal Tov to CHAIM KUDAN!

Best wishes!

May you go Mechayel el Chayel, and be a source of true Yiddishe Nachas always!

Meir & Sarah Simon

with Love, from Uncle Moishie, Aunt Elaine & cousins

Congratulations to Dr. Sahay on this well deserved honor!

“Yasher Koach” to Rabbi Moshe & Karen Mirsky for all their service and dedication to our community.

Debbie & Sid Stark

Debbie & Sid Stark

With much gratitude to the wonderful sponsors of this very special school’s scholarship.

In honor of Rabbi Moshe & Karen Mirsky

Ben & Rachel Federman

Martin (Mendel) Siegel

Don, Rochelle & Shmuel Stracher sincerely congratulate all the honorees including our superb Rabbi Moshe & Karen Mirsky

Mazal Tov to all the Honorees Eileen & Jerry Rosenbaum 65

To Rabbi and Mrs. Mirsky, In recognition of dedicated service to our school and the community.

May you enjoy only Mazal and Bracha in your new position.

Rabbi Mendy and Devora Leah Mathless L’chaim to the Honorees!

Yasher Koach Maimonides!

Fondly, Binyomin & Chanie Kolodny

To 4 special teachers: Morah Dini, Morah Rivka, Morah Stephanie, Mrs. Hoffman For instilling a love of Torah and worldly knowledge in our children and all the children you teach.

Thank you for the wonderful education you give my grandchildren.

-Bubby New Haven

With admiration, the Mathlesses

Mazel Tov to Rabbi Moshe and Karen Mirsky Peter Jacobs

66

 Mazal Tov! Selig Corman  Mazal Tov to the Honorees Dr. Mike & Barbara Scher  Mazal Tov to the Honorees!

Pamela & Leslie Judd  Mazal Tov to the Honorees, may Maimonides continue to go from strength to strength Rabbi Paul & Faye Silton  in honor of Reeva Nowitz Malka Evan

THANK YOU to the benefactors of the

2013-2014 MAIMONIDES SCHOLARSHIP FUND A&B Housewares Shelly Abelson Joe Adler Robert Adler Paula Ainspan Ruth Amram Andrusier Family Barbara Aronson Congregation Beth Abraham Jacob Eileen Aronson Victor Asal Dr. Alan Auerbach Miriam Auerbach Backman Family A I Bailis Judy Balund-Witty Yehuda Baker Yefim Baskin Michal Blustein-Lipp Rabbi Moshe Bomzer Rabbi Moshe Bogomilsky Randy Bradley Karl Brodsky Michael & Leah Caras Michele Chaiken Rafael Chaiken Feivel & Linda Chandler Cohen Family Zelig Corman Janice Corlett Yosef Costa Michael Covitch Jon Dunn Julia Eddy Elaine Ehrenpreis Renee Englander Malka Evan Ben & Rachel Federman Audrey Fisher Avraham Frank Devorah Fox Jack Friedman Hans Froelich Dr. Michael Fuhrman Shifra Galperin Marjorie Gang Claire Geller-Kolchetski Ton Genstil First Giving

Sandra Glantz Rivka Goldstein Itche & Dini Gordon Sandra Gorenstein Sara Granovetter Grant Watch Hershel Graubart Joseph Green Sol Greenberg Marc Gronich Sue Ann Grosberg Gavriel Horan Rabbi Chanoch Hecht Rabbi Sholom ber Hecht Nina Israel Rabbi AB Itkin Dr. Ed Jacobs Susan Joki Gary Judd Leslie Judd Jacob Judd Ethel Kagan Ellen Kaplowitz Alan Kasin Nissim Kaufmann Hsiao Katring Lisa Kellman Klein Family I. Klein Kochman Family Binyaminb Kolodny Gloria Krimmer Yitzchak Krimmer Charles Kudan Mushkie Kudan Norman Kudan Kudan Family Krieger Family Deena Kuperman Rabbi Avraham Laber Linda Leve Ted Levin Dr. David Levine Stepahanie Lieber Ida Lieberman Avi Losice Moshe Losice Yosef Luchins Mendy Mathless Debra Meadows

Miriam Messinger Grigory Mikhayalov Judy Miller Vicky Miller Rabbi Moshe Mirsky Sara Moise Maxine Morgenbesser Morrison Family Hope Nathan Reeva Nowitz Vicky O’Brien Dr. Jonathan Pasternack Chani Piekarski Devorah Piekarski Yehoshua Piekarski Jay Portnoy
 Dr. Paul Rapaport Linda Raxenberg Mindy Resnick Susan Ritzenberg Elaine Rosen Eileen Rosenbaum Sanford Rosenblum Sara Rosenblum Margaret Ruben Abba Rubin Mendel & Raizy Rubin Mushky Rubin Shmuly Rubin Simmy Rubin Yossi & Leyee Rubin Fraida Sabol Rochelle Saidel Mindy Sanders Rita Schachne Dr. Michael Scher Eric Schwartz Richard Seiden Lucy Serling Bill Sharp Shoprite Bev Shor Martin Siegel Ken Siegel Barry Siegel Ellen Silber Palti Silton Phyliss Silverman Carol Simon Zalmy & Chanie Simon 67

Nachman & Clara Simon Mendel Simon Robert Singer Dr. Isaac Solaimanzadeh Michael Solomon Debbie Stark Salo Steper Stewarts Shops Dr. Gavin Setzen Elyse Sternlicht Donald Stracher Jim Strosberg Ilene Sykes Elisheva Tauby Joyce Teitelman Rabbi Larry Teitelman Judy Traite Floyd Tuler Michael Tunney Esther Miriam Vinisky Volovik Family Fran Waldman Roslyn Weiss Rebekah Wildman Sara Wilenkin Rebecca Wilson Sara Wolfe Sanda Wolk Ben Zaientz Rochel Zaklos Anonymous donors not listed, and this list does not yet reflect Dinner/ Journal donations. We apologize for any inadvertent omissions.

:‫שִַ יר ַה ַמעֲלֹות לְדָׁ וִַד‬ .‫ׂשָׁ ַמחְתִַ י בְאֹמ ְִַרים לִַי בֵּית ה נֵּלְֵּך‬ .‫עֹמְדֹות הָׁיּו ַר ְגלֵּינּו בִַשְ ע ַָׁריְִַך יְרּושָׁ לָׁ ִַם‬ .‫לָּׁה יַחְדָׁ ו‬-‫יְרּושָׁ לַ ִַם ַהבְנּויָׁה ְכעִַיר שֶ ֻחב ְָׁרה‬ ‫ּה‬-‫שֶ שָׁ ם עָׁלּו שְ בָׁטִַ ים שִַ בְטֵּ י‬ .‫ לְה ֹדֹות לְשֵּ ם ה‬:‫עֵּדּות ְליִַׂשְ ָׁראֵּ ל‬ .‫ ִַכסְאֹות ְלבֵּית דָׁ וִַד‬:‫כִַי שָׁ מָׁה יָׁשְ בּו ִַכסְאֹות ְלמִַשְ פָׁט‬ .‫שַ אֲ לּו שְ לֹום יְרּושָׁ לָׁ ִַם; יִַשְ לָׁיּו א ֹ ֲה ָׁביְִַך‬ .‫ְַארמְנֹותָׁ יְִַך‬ ְ ‫שָׁ לֹום ְבחֵּילְֵּך; שַ ְלוָׁה ב‬-‫יְהִַי‬ .‫נָׁא שָׁ לֹום בְָׁך‬-‫ְל ַמעַן ַאחַי ו ְֵּרעָׁי אֲ דַ ב ְָׁרה‬ .‫הֵּינּו אֲ ַבקְשָׁ ה טֹוב לְָׁך‬-‫ה אֱ ֹל‬-‫ְל ַמעַן בֵּית‬ A Song of Ascents by David: I rejoiced when they said to me, "Let us go up to the House of G-d."

Our feet stood within your gates, O' Jerusalem.

Built-up Jerusalem is like a city (in which all of Israel is) united together.

For there, the tribes ascended, the tribes of G-d, a testimony for Israel, to give thanks to the Name of G-d.

For there stood the seats of justice, the thrones for the House of David.

Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, may those who love you be serene.

May there be peace within your wall, tranquility within your palaces.

For the sake of my brethren & friends, I ask that there peace in your midst.

For the sake of the House of Hashem, our G-d, I seek your well-being!

This Psalm 122, especially the verse “Our feet stood within your gates” is dedicated in the merit of speedy and complete recovery for Menachem Mendel ben Menucha Rochel

MAIMONIDES HEBREW DAY SCHOOL 31 Years of Excellence in Judaic & General Education “A Beautiful Blend - Torah & Worldly Experience” www.maimonidesschool.org 404 Partridge Street Albany NY 12208 68 (518) 453-9363/3434 maimonidesschool@gmail.com