Shalom New Haven

Learning to be a Leader in the Jewish Community with Misha Galperin On December 5, the 25th anniversary of the historic Soviet Jewry March on Washington, Dr. Misha Galperin, a Soviet refusenik, will give a community lecture at the JCC at 7:00 p.m. Dr.

Dr. Misha Galprin

Galperin was born in Odessa, Ukraine, and immigrated to the United States with his family when he was 18. He will discuss his most recent book, “Reimagining Leadership in Jewish Organizations: Ten Practical Lessons to Help You Implement Change and Achieve Your Goals.”

Galperin is the Jewish Agency’s president and CEO for International Development and a close colleague of

november - december 2012 / cheshvan - Tevet 5773

Party of the Century The JCC Celebrates 100 years Silver, purple and black balloon archways gave way to the party of the century – the JCC 100th Birthday Celebration on October 20, 2012.

The evening began with the sweet smell of Havdalah led by Rabbi Michael Farbman. The JCC’s milestone year was recognized by Honorary Chairs Governor Dannel Malloy, Senator Richard Blumenthal, Congresswoman Rosa DeLauro, Mayor of New Haven John DeStefano, Jr. and First Selectman of Woodbridge Edward Maum Sheehy.

They joined in the celebration to honor our Past Presidents, and congratulate and acknowledge the JCC’s commitment to the community and the impact the JCC has had over the past 100 years.

JCC 100th Birthday Celebration Chairs: (from left to right) Stan and Donna Hersh; Jan and Steve Miller, JCC President

Music from the Jay Stollman Band filled the auditorium as guests enjoyed a cocktail buffet with delicious hors d’oeuvres from Abel Caterers. On behalf of the JCC, we thank the cochairs Donna and Stan Hersh and Jan and Steve Miller and the committee members of the JCC 100th Birthday Celebration, our supporters and the staff of the JCC. Cheers, and here’s to the next 100!

Additional photos on page 15.

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Confused about the Federal Budget?

Peter Harris Olin Photography

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SHALOM NEW HAVEN

JCC celebrates their 100th with a spirited horah.

U.S. Senator Richard Blumenthal; Sydney A. Perry, Jewish Federation CEO; Steve Miller, JCC President

A Move in the Right Direction

David Wessel at the JCC

Jewish High School of Connecticut moves to JCC facility

November 4, 2pm

Improving the quality of life for future generations and nurturing Jewish identity have been goals of the Jewish High School of Connecticut (JHSC) since its formation. Similarly, the Jewish Community Center (JCC) of Greater New Haven makes a positive contribution to our community with programs that stimulate mind, body and spirit, while providing a tangible link with Jewish life and culture. When the JHSC first explored a move to the JCC, the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven recognized the potential of these two institutions being brought together under one roof.

Most voters know almost nothing about the federal budget.

Pulitzer Prize winner, David Wessel, will offer a clear guide to budgetary spending, borrowing and taxes. His topic is “Will the Outcome of the Election Staunch the Red Ink? A Look at Deficit Politics and Economics.”

Wessel, author of “RED INK: Inside the High Stakes Politics of the Federal Budget,” and of bestseller “In Fed We Trust: Ben Bernanke’s War on the Great Panic,” is the Economics Editor at the Wall Street Journal and writes the Capital column, a weekly look at the economics and forces shaping living standards around the world.

Here’s our opportunity to ask him questions and get informed responses.

Copies of “RED INK” will be available for purchase. The lecture is free and open to the public. Contact DeDe Jacobs Komisar at 203 387-2522 x300 or dedek@jccnh.org. for more information.

That vision was realized this August when the JHSC relocated to the JCC in Woodbridge. Now students from Greater New Haven and beyond can maximize their Jewish education in a facility that offers added benefits outside the classroom, helping them become more wellrounded, community-conscious individuals. Sydney Perry, Chief Executive

Officer of the Jewish Federation, commented, “This move aligns perfectly with the mission of the Federation and the JCC. Every day we see the partnership delivering more and more benefits.

Working together we see what type of society we can be. Students are given the tools for academic success but also classroom lessons that reflect Jewish values, shaping behaviors that make a difference in the world.”

Students appear to be in complete agreement and their enthusiastic response to the move was communicated by 11th grader Alex Schiff. When asked about the high school’s new location, he got right to the point. “Wow! that about sums it up for me.” Maureen Dewan, JHSC president, seconded Alex’s assessment. “Obviously the JCC is a great facility, but it was the welcoming and cooperative staff that made us feel at home from the start, assuring us it was the right decision.”

Now in its third year, JHSC is known for a rigorous college-preparatory academic program. The school’s educational philosophy is based upon building a broad liberal arts knowledge base, developing critical thinking skills, and guiding its students in responsible decision-making. JHSC is rooted in a robust, integrated program in Jewish and general studies, Torah u’Madah, which gives students the knowledge and skills necessary to lead enlightened, ethical and productive lives.

Not affiliated with any one synagogue or Jewish movement, JHSC is all-inclusive.

Students learn to make meaningful, informed choices on their own terms, while building strong personal relationships with the American Jewish community and the Land of Israel.

JHSC gives its students a voice, a sense of ownership, in school decisionmaking. As student council president Nimrod Ravid said, “One of the continued on page 2…

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Message from

Gary Geller

Chief Development Officer

It’s Going to be a Super Sunday

By Gary Geller, Chief Development Officer I am one of those crazy people that can’t wait to wake up at 6 a.m. on that [sometimes] cold December Sunday morning to watch community building and campaign building take place right in front of my eyes. Someday I will ask my doctor why I get such an adrenalin rush on that day.

It is the one day when we try to reach out and touch as many members of the New Haven Jewish community as possible. It’s a day when we learn that some of the people we are calling have died. It’s a day when we ask a sick person on the other end of the phone whether there is anything we can do to help. Can we have someone from Jewish Family Service call? Perhaps an elderly person is looking for an alternative living situation and we can have someone from Tower One/Tower East get in touch with them. Maybe someone has lost a job and can’t put food on the table. We can tell them about the Emergency Food Assistance Program of JFS. Super Sunday is about neighbor helping neighbor, with the Federation as the middle man, the enabler. They tell me to expect 100+ volunteers showing up in the JCC auditorium over the course of the day. It will be an opportunity for me to meet new people, to hear new stories. And, of course, we will raise some money as well.

Please come join us. Even if you don’t want to make calls, please just stop by and say hello. Come cheer on your neighbors while they make their calls. Come help us raise people’s spirits when they hear your smile on the other end of the line.

It will be a Super Sunday.

Open Letter to the Community from the Hebrew Congregation of Woodmont Dear Friends, As some of you may already know, a devastating fire broke out the morning of October 14 at our beloved synagogue, leaving the sanctuary building charred and its inside completely ruined. Only a blackened shell remains of the building. It is hard to believe, as we just recently celebrated Simchat Torah there, and just yesterday held services there...it will take time until this new reality “sinks in”...meanwhile, we will have to look for a new temporary home, and speed up the process of rebuilding. Thank G-d, our two Sefer Torahs were salvaged, but all the prayer books, Chumashim, historical plaques, stained-glass windows, etc. were lost.

We pledge to rebuild even stronger than before, and we are grateful for the many people who expressed their support during this time. We plan to hold Shabbat services over the next few weeks and will keep you updated as to location and time. Many of you have asked what you can do to help--our board will meet and we will keep you updated regarding opportunities to help out. We know that as a community, we will come together and we hope to be able to replicate our synagogue in the new building and preserve some of what was lost. May this be the last of sad tidings to be shared, and may we only have good news and reasons to celebrate from now on.

Rabbi Schneur Wilhelm How you can help The Hebrew Cong. of Woodmont has started a “Rebuilding Fund.” Contributions can be made to “THCW-Rebuilding Fund” and sent to 15 Edgefield Ave., Milford, CT 06460.

Credit card contributions can be made through our website at www.JewishMilford. com/Rebuild Also, we started a Facebook page to keep people up-to-date. Please “like” us to spread the word.

High School... continued from page 1 highlights for me is being able to have a say about how the school is run.” For example, the students choose which clubs they want to participate in. This semester’s list includes music, yearbook, photography, fashion design, literary magazine, Israeli culture, Moot Beit Din (a Jewish moot court club), Model UN and chess.

In addition, this year students have chosen AP psychology, theoretical mathematics, American Sign Language, and a theater workshop for their electives. Notably, the high school’s theater group will be producing and performing two plays.

The first is a one-act comedy called “The Apple” by Jimmy Brunelle. The second will be a play the students write themselves.

During class time, the group hones acting and improvisation skills, while rehearsing for their productions.

Dr. Yonatan Yussman, JHSC head of school, commented that, “JHSC excels in academic and Jewish programs, however a healthy body is also essential.

Now that we are at the JCC, our athletics programs will also excel.” This season, JHSC has a conditioning and fitness group and is fielding a soccer team.

JCC Director Shelley Gans is also an excited spokesperson for the collaboration. “We knew the potential synergy of the two organizations was immense.

Witnessing it come to fruition in the year the JCC celebrates its 100th anniversary is extra special and extremely gratifying. This is a perfect match and a smart move.”

Please contact Admissions Director Sara Pomerantz for more information: spomerantz@jhsct.org or 203-907-0055.

Published by the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven Donald S. Hendel - President Sydney A. Perry - Chief Executive Officer Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven 360 Amity Road, Woodbridge, CT 06525, 203 387-2424 - fax: 203 387-1818 jfgnh@jewishnewhaven.org / jewishnewhaven.org Interim Editorial Committee: Shelley Gans, Hilary Goldberg, Ruth Gross, Lauri Lowell.

Tanya Weinberg Design: Debbie Stach. Production: Alan Falk. shalomnewhaven is delivered free of charge to every home on the Jewish Federation’s mailing list. To add your name to the mailing list, please phone 203 387-2424 x307 or e-mail jfgnh@jewishnewhaven.org For advertising information, log on to jewishnewhaven.org and click on ‘advertising’ in the left navigation. snh reserves the right to decline advertising that conflicts with the mission of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven or does not meet our design standards. Publication of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of kashrut. For advertising information, phone 203 387-2522 or write to rgross@jewishnewhaven.org shalomnewhaven is printed on recycled paper with soy-based inks. Please recycle.

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Global Day of Jewish Learning In challenging times, it’s tempting to forget how much we have to be thankful for. As we approach Thanksgiving, the theme for the third Global Day of Jewish Learning, Sunday, Nov. 18, is “Blessings and Gratitude.”

Message from

Started in 2009 by Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz, the great scholar of Torah and Talmud, the Global Day of Jewish Learning is an initiative that reaches every corner of the Jewish world and hopes to attract Jews of all ages and all levels of knowledge as they join together in a day of unity and study. From Casablanca to Mumbai, from Auckland to Buenos Aires, Jews from 300 communities have planned interesting learning opportunities for Nov. 18.

Chief Executive Officer

And we in the Greater New Haven area are joining in this effort. We hope it will be a wonderful experience for our community and a source of blessings and gratitude.

8:15 a.m.: Discussion of the Blessings over the Torah, with Yoni Moss At the JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge The two blessings which are said while reading the Torah will be used as a springboard to thinking about how we conceive of the Torah and our relationship to it.

Moss has been conducting a Talmud class at the JCC every Sunday morning for students of all levels and receiving rave reviews both for his Judaic knowledge and for his ability to weave moral and contemporary issues into the exploration of the Talmud.

10:00 a.m.: Rabbinic Panel on Same-sex Marriage and the Shevah Brachot At Temple Beth Sholom, 1809 Whitney Ave., Hamden A panel discussion with four rabbis on same-sex marriage and the seven blessings which are said under the chupah. Co-sponsored by the Federation, Temple Beth Sholom and Congregation B’nai Jacob, there will be a brunch at 10 a.m. followed by the panel, moderated by Rabbi Ben Scolnic, at 10:30 a.m.. Joining Rabbi Scolnic will be Rabbi Michael Farbman of Temple Emanuel, Rabbi Yaakov Komisar of Ezra Academy, Rabbi Stacey Offner of Temple Beth Tikvah, and Rabbi Joel Levenson of Congregation B’nai Jacob.

10:00-11:30 a.m.: “Feeding the Hungry: A Thanksgiving Family Program” At Jewish Family Service, 1440 Whalley Ave., New Haven •PJ Library’s Vivian Newman will read “Bone Button Borscht” by Aubrey Davis •Design Thanksgiving cards for needy families •Make your own “Lend a Hand, Give a Can” bag Sponsored by PJ Library, Jewish Family Service and the JFS Food Bank.

Cost: One can of non-perishable Thanksgiving food, such as green beans, cranberry sauce, gravy mix, pie mix, stuffing. Ages 4 and up. To RSVP contact Saskia Swenson Moss at 203 387-2522 x317 or saskiasm@jccnh.org 2:00 p.m.: A staged reading of “The Gospel According to Jerry” In the Vine Auditorium, JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge A rabbi and a gospel choir leader meet at Overeaters Anonymous and strike an unlikely friendship in this hard-hitting comedy about values, Jewish/AfricanAmerican relations, stereotypes and spirituality. Written by former New Haven resident Richard Krevolin, playwright and author, and Rabbi Irwin Kula, president of the National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership (CLAL). Starring Kim Yarbrough of NBC’s “The Voice” and Ryan Lindberg. A talk-back with the writers, directors, and actors will follow. Presented as part of the JCC Arts & Culture Festival.

Tickets are $18 and available at www.jccnh.org or by calling 203 387-2522 x225.

For more information, please contact DeDe Jacobs-Komisar at 203 387-2522 x300 or dedejk@jccnh.org.

Galperin ... continued from page 1 Jewish Agency head Natan Sharansky.

Formerly the CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Washington, Dr. Galperin has a Ph.D. in clinical psychology and has also served as the COO of the Jewish Federation of New York.

A dynamic and provocative speaker, Galperin will address the issues of implementing change and achieving goals in Jewish organizations, agencies and synagogues. Invitations will go out to leadership in these groups in Greater New Haven, however all community members are welcome to attend and will be greatly rewarded by their participation. Members of the Eder Leadership Institute (ELI) are encouraged to attend.

While in New Haven, Galperin will also meet with members of the New American community and discuss the Soviet Jewry movement and its clarion call as old as Exodus: “Let Our People

Sydney A. Perry My name is Sydney Perry and I approve this message.

Do you feel like the run-up to the Presidential election has been going on since November 2008? The Republican primaries, the conventions, four debates, endless sound bites, zingers and bromides, a few good jokes--but few moments of real clarity. Endless, endless advertising, and more emails requesting money than even the Federation sends.

November 6 is finally upon us! Thank heaven.

Some Jews, despite or because of all the mandatory pro-Israel rhetoric from both political parties, will be taking Israel into the voting booths with them. Although only 5% of the electorate consider foreign policy a top priority, concerns for Israel and her security as well as the relationship between our government and Israel, is very present for many of our co-religionists.

No matter how you vote - and please do vote - I don’t believe that we will see any change in U.S. policy towards Israel no matter what the outcome between Obama and Romney. What changes we will see are more apt to be shaped by the unprecedented environment of upheaval in the region with Arab Spring, the looming Syrian civil war (which may spill over to Lebanon), and the very real threat of Iran - its nuclear menace to Israel as well as its aggressively hegemonic, messianic danger to other Muslim countries in the Middle East.

Much as I regret it, this is not a hospitable atmosphere in which we will see intensive efforts at peacemaking between Israel and the Palestinians. With the Arab world in ferment, action on Palestinian statehood is no longer an overarching priority for our allies in Europe or in the Arab world.

Should Governor Romney win, he will be briefed by U.S. defense experts and hear the same thing Netanyahu is hearing from his experts: Anything other than a fullscale invasion of Iran is unlikely to end the nuclear threat. Like Obama, he will be constrained by the staggering costs and negligible positive results of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. He may have warmer personal relations with his former Bain colleague, Netanyahu, but it seems more than likely that Romney will not move the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem. Promises have been made by many candidates from both parties to change the ambassador’s address, but once elected, the embassy remains at 71 HaYarkon St. in Tel Aviv, pending final status talks between Israel and the Palestinians.

Both parties have affirmed the “unshakeable” (Democrats) and “unequivocal” (Republicans) commitment to Israel in their platforms; both call for an independent Palestinian state and insist on Palestinians recognizing Israel’s right to exist and forsaking terrorism.

U.S. aid to Israel is unlikely to be cut by either an Obama or Romney administration. In mid-October, the first of 1000 American troops arrived in Israel to participate in a joint missile-defense exercise, the largest in the two countries’ relationship. If you’ve questioned this administration’s commitment to Israel’s security, take into account this testament of our government’s ongoing support.

I am deeply, deeply passionate about Israel. But Israel is not on the ballot in our country. Israel is on the ballot in January when elections take place there.

Go.” Deprived of their freedom of expression and religion, and prevented from emigrating, the Jews of the Former Soviet Union suffered terrible discrimination. Risking their careers and their liberty, many Soviet Jews began to protest the denial of their freedoms and the ability to immigrate to Israel.

The American Jewish community, wellschooled in civil rights advocacy, began advocating for the release of their brethren. Galperin’s presence and stories will no doubt resonate with the émigrés who live in our community and serve as a reminder to so many who marched on Washington and worked for the eventual exodus of a million Jews from the “evil empire.”

Wednesday, Dec. 5, 7 p.m. at the JCC. For more information or to indicate attendance, please contact Gary Geller at 203 3872424 x231 or ggeller@jewishnewhaven.org.

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Campaign

Spontaneous Comic Relief with Cory Kahaney Women’s Philanthropy and the Outreach & Engagement Circle of the Jewish Federation are presenting a fabulous, fun evening featuring comedian Cory Kahaney on Thursday, Nov. 8 at 7:00 p.m. at Terminal 110 located at 240 Sargent Drive in New Haven.

Kahaney is the creator of “The Princesses of Comedy,” an OffBroadway production that features live standup routines by four female Jewish comics, including Kahaney, juxtaposed with the stories of legendary performers from the 1950s and ‘60s.

Event committee chairs are Emily and Ken Sandberg, According to Peter Wendy Gross, Lisa and Lasally, executive proDavid Harding, Robin and ducer of CBS’ Late Late Ken Kramer, and Stacey Show, Cory Kahaney is and Hap Perkins. The cost “the funniest comedian Cory Kahaney to attend the comedy night working today.” Kahaney is $54, which includes a nosh and open was a grand finalist in season one of bar. A minimum commitment of $180 NBC’s “Last Comic Standing.” She to the 2013 Jewish Federation Annual has had her own comedy specials on Campaign is suggested. Register online both Comedy Central and HBO. She at www.jewishnewhaven.org or contact was voted comedian of the year by Stacey Trachten at 203 387-2424 x324, Backstage Magazine and named best strachten@jewishnewhaven.org or female comedian by the Manhattan Enid Groves at 203 387-2424 x267, Cabaret Association. egroves@jewishnewhaven.org.

Mission to Argentina in January 2013 Join the Jewish Federation on our first ever mission to Argentina, including the Iguaçu Falls and an optional Uruguay extension.

• Tour beautiful Buenos Aires while learning the fascinating immigrant history.

• Experience the contemporary and diverse culture of the Jews in Buenos Aires and Montevideo, while visiting synagogues, Jewish restaurants and cultural centers.

International Lions of Judah Raise $27 Million The Jewish Federations of North America’s 2012 International Lions of Judah Conference was held in New York City this past September. New Haven’s contingent was 15 strong as 1,700 women participated in raising $27 million for the Annual Campaign.

The Lions of Judah, through their philanthropy and their actions, seek to create meaningful and lasting change that potentially saves and improves the lives of so many. “The international network of support by Jewish women helps address the challenges that we will most certainly face in the future,” said Gail Norry, chair of National Women’s Philanthropy. “We are stronger as a people because women are more committed to repairing and sustaining our Jewish community.”

many others received overwhelming Federation support to help heal emotional wounds in the wake of the attack on the World Trade Center, thanks to UJA-Federation of New York’s team of social workers and trauma professionals. “It’s hard to conjure what life would be like without Federation. Its impact is phenomenal,” Silverstein said.

The Women’s Philanthropy arm of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven is pleased to announce the newest Lion for the 2013 Annual Campaign, Laura Kaplan. Additionally, many of the women present chose to increase their already generous gifts.

The New Haven contingent was particularly proud of Betsy Hoos who so ably co-chaired the very inspirational event.

The conference featured unique sessions offering strategies to build leadership, volunteerism and philanthropy.

Many of the women at the conference participated in coordinated hands-on service projects, helping to ‘repair the world’ by providing job skills tutorials and putting together emergency food and shelter packages.

Sydney Perry, Federation CEO, said, “If there is any doubt that a small group of women can really change the world, we need to look no further than the women we honored with the KipnisWilson/Friedland award.” At the closing ceremony, New Haven’s own Judy Skolnick, whose two daughters were in attendance, was presented with this very prestigious award.

Larry Silverstein, president and CEO of Silverstein Properties, Inc., developer of the World Trade Center site, relayed his own 9/11 story. Silverstein and so

For more about Women’s Philanthropy and the Lions of Judah, please contact Enid Groves at 203 387-2424 x267 or egroves@jewishnewhaven.org

• Meet with Jewish leaders and discover how this community has persevered through fascism, terrorist attacks and financial catastrophe.

• Enjoy a night at Iguaçu Falls, a world heritage site.

Limited to 30 individuals. Minimum commitment of $500 to the 2013 JFGNH Annual Campaign.

Date: January 15 -24, 2013 (with optional extension to Uruguay January 23-25).

Cost: Land and Air (from NY) is $3849 pp; Land only is $2599 pp (rates are based on double occupancy, for single supplement, add $900). Uruguay extension is $550 pp (based on double occupancy; for single supplement, add $100). Price includes airfare taxes as of 9/12/12 (taxes are subject to change).

Includes: Most meals, 5-star accommodations, transfers, local taxes, deluxe motor coach with English-speaking guide.

For details: Lisa Stanger at 203 387-2424 x382 or lstanger@jewishnewhaven.org.

Seated from left to right: Gloria Hoder, Robin Kramer, Stacey Perkins and Barbara Orell.

Standing from left to right: Jane Shernow, Lisa Stanger, Sydney Perry, Marcia Reiter, Robyn Teplitzky, Judy Skolnick and Stacey Trachten. Not pictured: Betsy Hoos, Laura Kaplan, Helaine Lender and Suzanne Gallant.

A full house gathered to hear Dr. Myra Gutin speak at the President’s Partner event, presented by Federation’s Women’s Network on November 8. The event was co-sponsored by Hadassah and NCJW. Dr. Gutin spoke about America’s first ladies and the impact they had on the political arena. Standing: (Left to right) Susan Saundry, Maddy Tannenbaum, Susan Schiffres. Seated: Lesley Marcus, Dr. Myra Gutin, Wendy Lebson

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Foundation

Create a Legacy for the JCC One hundred years ago, the young Jewish men and women of New Haven needed a place to come together for educational and cultural events, athletics, and just plain social gatherings.

This is the reason they created the New Haven Jewish Community Center.

From its birth on the top floor of 200 Orange Street to our current location in Woodbridge, the JCC remains a place the entire Jewish community calls home.

Today, we are living in the future the JCC’s founding generation only imagined. Our first 100 years were their gift to us. The next one hundred years are in our hands. We invite you to join us

in perpetuating their legacy by becoming the next century’s founders – and become one of the guarantors of the JCC’s next 100 years.

The Jewish Community Center’s Endowment Funds provide permanent income for the current and future needs of the institution. Just as a family’s savings provide security and opportunity, so do the JCC’s Endowment Funds pave the way for a more secure tomorrow. By including the JCC in your estate planning, you will insure that New Haven’s Jewish community will continue to flourish. Your gift guarantees our vibrant future.

What Will Your Legacy Be? How can you create a legacy to provide for adult and early childhood education, the JCC day camps, and sports and family programs for future generations of Jews in Greater New Haven? By establishing a permanent endowment for the benefit of the JCC.

All JCC endowments are managed by the Jewish Foundation of Greater New Haven -- this will provide your endowment fund with professional and independent management, investment and oversight, as well as a prudent spending policy that will enable your legacy to continue for the next generation.

You don’t need to be rich. If you cannot commit to an endowment now, you can establish it by a bequest in your Will.

Alternatively, you can start your endowment fund now and add to it later through your estate plan. Either way, you create a legacy for what is most important to you.

For more information and to find out how to create your legacy for the JCC, contact Lisa A. Stanger, Esq., Director, Jewish Foundation of Greater New Haven, 203-387-2424 ext. 382, lstanger@jewishnewhaven.org or Shelley Gans, Director, JCC of GNH, 203-387-2522 ext. 206, shelleyg@jccnh.org.

Ways in Which You Can Create Your Legacy: Outright Gifts. You can use cash or stock to begin your endowment.

Charitable Bequests. By naming the JCC in your Will, you can create a permanent legacy -- it can be as large or as small as you want.

Retirement Plans. You may be able to accomplish more with your retirement assets by designating them to the JCC. If left to noncharitable heirs (other than your spouse), retirement plan assets are subject to income and estate taxes. In a taxable estate, this could mean that your heirs would be left with 25 cents on the dollar.

Life Income Gifts. Make a gift that pays income to you. You can establish a charitable gift annuity or a charitable remainder trust for the benefit of the JCC and you will be able to claim a current income tax deduction, a guaranteed income stream for you, and the remainder will be used to establish your endowment fund for the JCC. Pass Assets to the Next Generation. You can establish a charitable lead trust for the JCC. Your trust can provide annual income to the JCC (for the trust term), and, at the end of the trust

term, the remaining assets of the trust will be transferred to your children or grandchildren.

Life Insurance. You can purchase an insurance policy for the JCC or transfer an existing policy to the JCC. You can also designate your charitable endowment as the beneficiary on all or part of an insurance policy. Consider what insurance you currently own and whether part of it can be used to fund your charitable legacy.

Please consult your professional advisor concerning what tax and estate plan is best for you.

Through current and planned gifts of cash, insurance and bequests, the following funds for the JCC have been established by members of our community: JCC Endowment Funds for General Purposes Beckerman Family 1997 Charitable Lead Trust Beckerman Family Supporting Foundation, Inc. JCC Endowment Fund Abby & Harold Bench Fund for the Jewish Community Center Rose B. and Barbara Gingold Fund Rose & John Fox Memorial Fund for the benefit of the Jewish Community Center Ian Freeman Life Insurance Policy Velma and Stuart Grodd Endowment for the benefit of the JCC JCC Community One Fund JCC Community One Event Fund Jewish Community Center Philanthropic Fund Lydia D. Levine Fund for the benefit of Mishkan Israel and the JCC Leo Links Fund for the Jewish Community Center Moses M. and Hannah Malkin CGA Phillip & Ann L. Meyerson Fund for the benefit of the JCC Dorothy Shure Memorial Fund for the Jewish Community Center Teplitzky Family Endowment for the benefit of the JCC*

JCC Endowment Funds Designated for Music, Cultural Arts and Educational Programs at the JCC Frederick A. & Justine Millspaugh Catlin Family Foundation Endowment Fund Edward Cooley Fund for Music Programs at the JCC Dr. Milton Godfried for JCC Cultural Programs Stuart Harris Fund for Cultural Arts at the Jewish Community Center Frances Shield Fund for the JCC Healthy Women Healthy Lives Program Frances Shield Fund for the JCC Cultural Arts Program JCC Endowment Funds Designated for Sports and Fitness Kenneth and Linda Cohen Family Endowment for the benefit of the Swimming Pool at the JCC* Harold “Bub” Hahn Endowment for Athletics at the JCC Leonard Margolis Athletic Endowment Fund Martha Sue & Bertrand S. Weisbart Endowment Fund for the benefit of Youth Fitness at the JCC of GNH JCC Endowment Funds Designated for JCC Day Camps Lucille & Arnold Alderman Camp Fund Beckerman Family Supporting Foundation, Inc. Camping Experience Endowment Fund Irma K. & Alvin L. Evans Jewish Center Camp Fund *New fund in honor of the JCC’s Centennial List as of September 14, 2012

Ken and Linda Cohen Create JCC Pool Endowment

JCC members Ken and Linda Cohen can remember a time when there was no swimming pool at the JCC. In fact, the Cohens were among the original contributors that made the pool a reality, with Ken also serving on the committee that oversaw the pool’s construction.

Inspired by this year’s JCC 100 Celebration, the couple decided to add to their legacy of support, funding an endowment to keep the Center’s swimming pool program above water for years to come. It is called the Kenneth and Linda Cohen Family Endowment for the Benefit of the Swimming Pool at the JCC and was established through the Jewish Foundation of Greater New Haven. Ken and Linda used appreciated stock to establish their endowment, allowing them to realize significant tax savings.

An avid swimmer, Ken attributes his good health to his daily pool regimen. So it was a natural for him to dive right in to help keep the next generation in shape by ensuring the JCC pool remains ship shape.

Open to all JCC members, the pool is handicapped accessible and also serves as home to the Blue Marlins swim team. Most important, it is the place where hundreds upon hundreds of children have learned to swim.

As Ken put it, “This is about giving back--think of what the pool and the JCC have meant to so many in the past and how many more people can benefit in the future.” Ken is right, and maybe, just maybe, the next Michael Phelps could be among them.

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Message from

Lauri Lowell Director, Jewish Community Relations Council

Can You Live on $1.50 a Meal?

We’re Going to Try. Can you imagine being a recipient of Food Stamps and trying to provide healthy, nutritious meals for yourself and your family on only $1.50 a meal per person or $4.50 per day?

Jewish Family Service, Jewish Federation and the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater New Haven are calling on community members to try it for one week, from Wednesday, Nov. 14 through Tuesday, Nov. 20, coinciding with Hunger & Homelessness Awareness Week. According to the U.S. Dept. of Agriculture, the average monthly benefit for Food Stamps in FY 2010 was $133.79, which breaks down to approximately $31.50 per week, $4.50 per day, or $1.50 per meal. It’s called the Food Stamp Challenge. I’m doing it. So are Sydney Perry and Jonathan Garfinkle. Who’s joining us?

Why a Food Stamp Challenge?

Food Stamps or SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) currently helps nearly 45 million low-income families purchase food – that’s 1 in 7 Americans. More than half of food stamp recipients are children. The program is designed as a safety net. In New Haven County, the statistics are awful: 19% of all children — 36,750 children — experience food insecurity. (Source: CT Food Bank) The Food Stamp Challenge is a way to experience directly the challenge of hunger, to experience an emotional, empathic connection to the critical importance of supporting local and federal programs, like SNAP and the JFS Food Pantry.

What is ‘food insecurity’? The USDA defines it as the lack of consistent access to adequate amounts of food for an active, healthy life. According to Sandy Hagan, JFS Food Pantry coordinator, during the first three quarters of 2012, the Food Pantry witnessed a dramatic increase in the number of emergency food and crisis visits from local residents. “We receive an average of 25 new requests for food assistance monthly,” she stated, “and that is in addition to the 275 families who already receive supplemental food on a monthly basis.”

Join Us! We Challenge You! For one week -- Wednesday, Nov. 14 - Tuesday, Nov. 20 – Live on the average Food Stamp benefit–$31.50/week, $4.50/day, $1.50/meal

Guidelines for taking the Food Stamp Challenge 1. Each person should spend only a total of $31.50 on all food and beverages during the specified week, Wednesday, Nov. 14 through Tuesday, Nov. 20.

2. All food purchased and eaten, including fast food, carry-out, dining out, coffee, beverages, etc. must be counted in the total spending.

3. Only eat food that you purchase for the project. Do not eat food that you already have, except for spices and condiments.

4. Avoid accepting free food from friends, family, or at work, including parties, receptions or meetings.

5. Keep track of receipts on food spending and take note of your experiences throughout the week.

Why I Took the Food Stamp Challenge Rabbi Joel Levenson, spiritual leader of Cong. B’nai Jacob, Woodbridge: Our tradition teaches that the world stands on three pillars, Torah (study of sacred texts), Avodah (prayer), and g’milut hasadim (acts of loving kindness).

What could be a greater act of kindness than making sure someone has enough food to eat?

Just before Rosh HaShana, I participated in the Jewish Community Food Stamp Challenge. Everything I bought – groceries, meals out, snacks, lunches, coffees, etc. – counted towards my $31.50 budget. It wasn’t easy, but to have personally experienced the challenge of daily hunger helped me better understand the struggles too many Americans face daily. We need to show the derekh eretz, the menschlekeit to support federal programs that make a difference; we need to protect SNAP from funding cuts and structural changes.

The Challenge is a national effort led by rabbis and organized by the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, MAZON: A Jewish Response to Hunger, the Rabbinical Assembly, the Reconstructionist Rabbinical Association, the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism, and the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism.

Many people will be taking the Challenge just before Thanksgiving, during the week of Parshat Toldot. Food is a prominent theme in this season and in the parsha: Esau sells his birthright to Jacob for a bowl of red lentil stew after returning famished from a hunting outing. Hunger pangs forced Esau to sell his birthright. Now that’s food for thought.

Dr. Jonathan Garfinkle, executive director of Jewish Family Service of GNH: Staying within this meager budget was hard! I am a rather frugal shopper generally, but $1.50 per meal was not nearly enough to keep me sated nor, in my estimation, properly nourished. Unlike actual Food Stamp recipients, I knew that at the end of the week, I’d be able to go back to eating whatever I wanted whenever I wanted it. As the Challenge proceeded, I kept thinking how fortunate I was.

In 2010, applications for Food Stamps in New Haven increased by 38% from the prior year! Over 30% of New Haven children live below the poverty line (compared to 10.5% statewide). These troubling statistics came into sharper focus for me as a result of my participation in the Challenge. Most of all, it highlighted for me the vital importance of the JFS Food Assistance Program and Food Pantry.

JCL’s 7th Annual Orientation On Sept. 11, 100-plus volunteers attended the Jewish Coalition for Literacy’s 7th Annual Information and Orientation kick off program at the JCC. Guest speaker Elaine Parsons, literacy coordinator for New Haven Public Schools, praised JCL volunteer reading partners for their commitment and thanked them for giving their students the opportunity to practice oral and written language skills.

Breakout sessions were facilitated by outstanding literacy specialists: Jim Harrison, actor, writer and storyteller, demonstrated how to bring a story to life; Amy Schlank, a Dr. Comer coordinator, used books to discuss social and psychological development; Cyra Levenson, Assistant Curator for Education at Yale Center for British Art, led a session about reading a picture; and Barbara Averna, educator, shared ideas about motivating children using books and games. Evelyn Krevolin and Beth Kaufman chaired the planning committee consisting of Hyla Chasnoff, Nina Goodless Sanchez, Joya Marks and Pat Rogovin. Refreshments were generously donated by Abel Catering.

For more information, contact Brenda Brenner, JCL coordinator, at 203 387-2424 x308 or bbrenner@jewishnewhaven.org

Let us know.

We’d like to know if you’re participating, so please email us. Let’s share tips on how to make it through on $31.50: jcrc@jewishnewhaven.org or shagan@jfsnh.org

Donate the difference.

Calculate the difference between what you normally spend on groceries and the $31.50 you spent during the Food Stamp Challenge. Please donate the difference to the Jewish Family Service Food Assistance Program. The JFS Food Pantry serves residents of Greater New Haven regardless of race, religion or ethnicity; it is a ‘choice’ food pantry offering its clients a high quality, dignified shopping experience. It is committed to stamping out hunger one can at a time.

Jewish Family Service, 1440 Whalley Avenue, New Haven, CT 06515.

For information about the Food Pantry, to volunteer or organize a food drive, contact Sandy Hagan at 203 389-5599 or shagan@jfsnh.org.

For information on advocacy, contact JCRC Director Lauri Lowell at 203 387-2424 x318 or jcrc@jewishnewhaven.org.

Pictured from left to right, rear: Elaine Parson, Nina Goodless-Sanchez and Donna Hersh; front: Evelyn Krevolin and Debbie Fernbach.

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shalomnewhaven

JFS Message from

Jewish Family Service Groups & Classes

Rabbi Hesch Sommer

Bereavement: Finding Comfort in Our Time of Loss A bereavement group offers an opportunity to reflect with others who can understand our struggles in a way that individuals who have not suffered the loss of a loved one cannot. Like a way station on a long journey, a bereavement group of three sessions provides some time to reflect, offers us the comfort of fellow travelers, and gives us a chance to renew our inner strength as we travel on. You are welcome to attend any of the following:

.

Director of the Jewish Wellness and Healing Center Jewish Family Service of New Haven

“Justice, Justice Shall You Pursue…”

Dear Friends, Of all the verses in the Torah, there is one which haunts me because it speaks to a reality of the human condition. Deuteronomy 15:11 states: “For there will never cease to be needy ones in your land, which is why I command you: open your hand to your brother, the poor and the needy in your land.”

The notion of neediness is profound in our days. And “need” shows itself in so many different forms. Through the work of Jewish Family Service, we encounter those whose poverty is not only material -- individuals and families for whom the food pantry is literally life-sustaining -- but also those who are impoverished because they are so alone in their daily struggles. There is in so many people’s lives a sense of physical impoverishment and emotional loss.

Recently, a person told me that he often thinks about whether he can continue to deal with the obstacles he faces. He is a well-educated man who lost his job a few years ago. He always believed that if he worked hard, the American dream in some form would become his reality. Today, he finds a new reality: a society which made promises but is not able to keep up with the extraordinary needs of so many; a community with diminishing resources which is hard-pressed to sustain support for those who have contributed to the communal well-being and are now turning for help to the very society which they willingly assisted when they were able.

Temple Beth Sholom (1809 Whitney Ave., Hamden), Tuesdays, Nov. 20, 27 & Dec. 4, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Caregiver Support Group These groups are for individuals who are coping with the needs of elderly and frail loved ones. Monthly meetings take place at two locations: Temple Beth David (3 Main St., Cheshire), Thursdays, Nov. 1 & Dec. 27, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

Tower One/Tower East (18 Tower Lane, New Haven), Thursdays, Oct. 18, Nov. 29 & Dec. 20, 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.

These groups are facilitated by Rabbi Hesch Sommer and are open to any individual in the Greater New Haven community. For more information, contact either Michelle O’Brien at the Towers, 203 722-1816 x170, Rabbi Josh Whinston at TBD, 203 272-0037, or Rabbi Sommer at JFS, 203 389-5599 x117.

Shalom Group – Community Outreach The Jewish students Shalom group at Chapel Haven continues its bi-monthly learning opportunities with Rachel Scolnic Dobin and Rabbi Hesch Sommer.

Wednesdays: Nov. 14 (Rachel Scolnic Dobin), Nov. 28 (Rabbi Sommer), Dec. 5 (Rachel Scolnic Dobin), and Dec. 19 (Rabbi Sommer). For more information, please contact Rabbi Hesch Sommer at 203 389-5599 x117. Meeting time is 4:00 p.m. in the library at Chapel Haven.

“For there will never cease to be needy ones in your land….” As a Jewish community, we are reminded in the ethical teachings of generations past that while we might not be able to complete the work, neither are we permitted to desist from it, for we are obligated to not separate ourselves from our community.

Shalom Group Chanukah Celebration Thursday, Dec. 13 (5:00 – 6:30 p.m.) at Jewish Family Service, 1440 Whalley Ave., New Haven. Please contact Rachel Scolnic Dobin at 203 389-5599 x109 for more details.

We are asked to open our hand to others. The Torah addresses those considered our brothers, the poor and the needy. It may seem like an odd grouping and yet in reality we are reminded that each person is our brother/sister for if we see the needy and the poor as other than our kin, we rob them of the sacred that is within each of us.

Chutes and Ladders: The Joys and Challenges of Jewish Parenting JFS and the PJ Library present a parenting program on the joys and challenges of raising Jewish children. Join Rabbi Hesch Sommer, director of the JFS Jewish Wellness & Healing Center, and Saskia Swenson Moss, PJ Library coordinator, for this three-session program. Tuesdays, Nov. 20 & Dec. 18, 5:30 6:30 p.m. at the JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge. $15 for JCC members; $18 for non-members. To register, call Barbara at 203 387-2522 x250.

The challenge which JFS faces is a charge for our entire community: see those who are made to feel invisible, reach out so that no one feels alone, and work to overcome the injustices in this society which make others hunger for basic human needs. To paraphrase Hillel, in a world where all too often people forget the moral imperatives of being human, we must strive to affirm our humanity and by so doing affirm the humanity of others.

Whitney Center is where achievement, hospitality and value live as one

...and where the choices are yours to make.

Call us for a FREE information kit or to schedule a personal appointment

888-918-3118

Stars of David Adoption Group Chanukah Celebration Once again, the Stars of David will celebrate Chanukah with a potluck dinner on Monday, Dec. 10, 6:00 - 7:30 p.m. at the JFS office, 1440 Whalley Ave., New Haven. Come celebrate with friends and meet new families as well! The Stars of David is a social group for Jewish families touched by adoption. For more information or to register, call Amy Rashba, JFS adoption coordinator, at 203 389-5599 x113.

For High School Students: Jewish Ethics in Rod Serling’s “Twilight Zone” Rod Serling created “The Twilight Zone” in the ‘60s, each episode of which has a very powerful moral message. Following the showing of an episode, students will discuss themes and examine Jewish ethical texts. At Congregation Mishkan Israel, 785 Ridge Rd., Hamden, 12:00 - 1:30 p.m. on the following Sundays (monthly): Nov. 4, Dec. 2, Feb. 10, March 24 & April 24. For more information, contact Michelle Goldstein at CMI at 203 288-3877 or Rabbi Sommer at 203 389-5599 x117.

Jewish Attitudes Regarding Eating Disorders Using Jewish sacred texts as a gateway to understanding the nature of eating disorders, these quarterly gatherings will explore the role of food and the impact of eating disorders on individuals and their families. Thursday, Dec. 6, 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. at JFS, 1440 Whalley Ave., New Haven. For more information, contact Rabbi Sommer at 203 389-5599 x117.

A Yearlong Study of Pirke Avot: Ethical Reflections on How We Live Our Lives Partnering with six congregations and their rabbis, this is an opportunity to explore the ethical writings of the Talmudic teachers and how they speak to our lives. For more information, contact Rabbi Sommer at 203 389-5599 x117.

II. Pirke Avot, Chapter Two: Wednesdays, Dec. 5, 12 & 19 (7:00 - 8:30 p.m.)

Theme: “Do not separate yourself from your community….”

A Heritage of Exceptional Senior Living

Congregation Mishkan Israel, 785 Ridge Rd., Hamden. Co-facilitator, first session: Rabbi Fred Hyman of Westville Synagogue.

200 Leeder Hill Drive|Hamden, CT 06517|www.WhitneyCenter.com WHCTSNA

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Alice Mattison

Delia Ephron

When We Argued All Night

The Lion is In

Thursday, November 1, 11am • JCC This sweeping, intimate novel follows two men whose friendship spans the tumultuous events of the twentieth century. As the world changes around them, their relationship holds them together in a bond of solace, memory, and argument. Mattison teaches at Bennington College in Vermont and lives in New Haven. Sponsored

by Women’s Philanthropy. Suggested donation $6.

Tuesday, December 4, 11am • JCC Written with the deftness, humor, and sparkling wit that have marked her books, plays, and movies (including You’ve Got Mail), Delia Ephron’s The Lion Is In is an unforgettable story of friendship, courage, love — and learning to salsa with the king of the jungle. Sponsored by Women’s Philanthropy. Suggested donation $6.

David Wessel Will the Outcome of the Election Staunch the Red Ink?

A Look at Deficit Politics and Economics Sunday, November 4, 2pm • JCC The Pulitzer Prize-winning author of RED INK: Inside the High Stakes Politics of the Federal Budget will analyze how a choice for Obama or Romney will impact the American economy. Wessel is Economics Editor for The Wall Street Journal and a frequent commentator for NPR. He grew up in New Haven. FREE

Peninnah Schram

The Apple Tree’s Discovery Tuesday, November 6 • JCC • Ages 4+ A little apple tree in a forest of oaks begs God for stars like those glimmering on the branches of the great oak trees beside her. As the seasons pass, she learns to appreciate her own gifts and realizes that it’s possible to find a star in each of us. Sponsored by PJ Library and JCC AfterSchool.

Cost: $5 includes craft. Purchase tickets at www.jccnh.org

“Transformational! Full of ideas and leavened by a message that favors love and kindness.” - Star Tribune

The

Northeast Premiere!

Gospel

According to Jerry

Written by Richard Krevolin and Rabbi Irwin Kula Starring Kim Yarbrough of NBC’s The Voice and Ryan Lindberg

Sunday, November 18, 2pm • JCC Join us for a staged reading of this hard-hitting comedy about values, Jewish/African-American relations, stereotypes, and spirituality. A talk-back with the writers, directors, and actors to follow.

Presented as part of The Global Day of Jewish Learning and the JCC Arts and Culture Festival

Shoreline Event

Tickets: $18

Rachelle Bergstein

Purchase tickets at www.jccnh.org

Women from the Ankle Down Sunday, November 11, 4pm Lily Juliet TOO, 20 Wall Street, Madison Featuring interviews with designers, historians, and cultural experts, and a cast of real-life characters, Women from the Ankle Down is a lively look at the evolution of modern women and the fashion that reflects—and has shaped—their changing lives. Sponsored by the Shoreline Office JFGNH and Shoreline Hadassah. Reception prior to talk.

Cost: $15. Purchase tickets at www.jccnh.org

Barry Zaret Journeys

Thursday, November 15, 7pm • JCC In his first poetry collection, Zaret unleashes a torrent of gorgeous verse drawn from his Jewish heritage, his life as a cardiologist, his intense sorrows and joys, and his love of the natural world. An accomplished poet, painter, and scientist, Zaret is the Robert W. Berliner Emeritus Professor of Medicine at Yale School of Medicine. FREE Shoreline Event

Karen Bergreen

Perfect is Overrated Tuesday, November 27, 7pm Shoreline Office JFGNH, 105 Boston Post Rd, Guilford A wickedly funny and slightly twisted romp through the life of one very needy mom, her cockeyed family, gorgeous ex-husband and the insane, entitled, over-dressed, overzealous, eternally jealous parent body at The Hawthorne Preschool. Bergreen is a comedian and novelist who lives in New York City. Co-sponsored by Shoreline Hadassah. FREE

For more information about the Arts and Culture Festival at the JCC, contact dedek@jccnh.org or 203 387-2522 x300

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Community

Russian-Speaking Citizens Get Ready for Election Day!

By Yelena Gerovich, New American Acculturation coordinator The Jewish Community Center has become an educational center for many Russian-speaking refugees from the Former Soviet Union. A group of Russian immigrants in our community became U.S. citizens over the last four years. They recently participated in a series of educational programs called “Getting Ready for Election Day 2012” and “The U.S. Electoral Process,” offered by the New American Acculturation Program. The participants learned why it is so important to become an American citizen, why it is important to vote, and how to register for the upcoming election.

These programs were made possible by generous grants to the New American Acculturation Program from the Jewish Federation Association of Connecticut (JFACT), the Connecticut Department of Social Services, and the Women of Vision Society of the Jewish Foundation of Greater New Haven, along with tremendous support from the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven.

The New American Acculturation Program is planning to continue its very successful series entitled, “You Can Accomplish Many More Things If You Do Not Think of Them as Impossible,”

with Olga Markus and Svetlana Kriger.

The last program held on Oct. 15 was a great success.

Reaching Out to Children and Grandchildren of Survivors The committee that develops and organizes the annual Yom Hashoah program at the JCC to commemorate those lost in the Holocaust has a new project. The committee would like to identify the children and grandchildren of Holocaust survivors in our area to keep them updated on activities and programs relating to the Holocaust and to develop new programs of interest. If you are a child or grandchild of a Holocaust survivor, please send your e-mail address to Ruth Gross at ruthg@jccnh.org.

Svetlana Kriger leading the program, “You Can Accomplish Many More Things If You Do Not Think of Them as Impossible.”

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

On Sept. 23, members of the community gathered at the Greater New Haven Holocaust Memorial for the annual Kever Avot Memorial service. Traditionally observed between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, the service includes a short program of remembrance as well as traditional prayers.

Israeli Emissaries Assaf Ben Kish (left) and Yuval Barkan (right) pictured with Dan Perkins of Dan Perkins Subaru.

Perkins Provides Mobile Mitzvah: Vehicles for the Emissaries

By Anat Weiner, Young Emissary program coordinator Dan Perkins, of Dan Perkins Subaru in Milford, really knows the meaning of mitzvah.

When approached by the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven to support the Young Emissary program, Dan exceeded our expectations by generously providing two vehicles for the emissaries to use throughout the year.

This will enable Yuval and Assaf, and future emissaries in the coming years, to continue their outreach to local synagogues, schools, senior homes and

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youth programs throughout our community.

Thanks to Dan Perkins, we can continue to bring Israel to life in our community. Dan is a true mensch and a role model for the “pay it forward” action so needed to support our vital programs.

If you would like to support the Young Emissary program or be a host family for Yuval or Assaf, please contact Anat Leviteh Weiner at 203-387-2424 x 313 or by email at anatw@jccnh.org.

shalomnewhaven

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JCC Expands Cultural Arts Offerings

Meet DeDe Jacobs-Komisar, Cultural Arts Manager

Originally from Baltimore, DeDe has worked in the arts and non-profit administration, and has founded Jewish theater companies in Baltimore and Jerusalem. She is thrilled to be on the JCC staff and has planned a full season of events. Next up is the Arts and Culture Festival from November 1 – December 4 (see ad on page 8), and Jew-ish on Dec. 15, the inaugural production of JCC Theaterworks, an inhouse company focusing on new Jewish plays and featuring professional and community talent.

ingful glimpses of many different points of view. It’s like sketch comedy, but it’s definitely not all comedy. The tone shifts from a heavy piece about an agunah [a woman unable to obtain a Jewish divorce] to one about a nice Jewish girl who gets set up with Jesus, and back again.

SNH: What are your plans for the rest of the year?

So much! We’re planning a full calendar of art exhibitions, a community Purim shpiel, a panel on whether Jewish women can “have it all,” an Israeli film festival, a revamped Taste of Honey, and of course our first JCC Theaterworks season, which will include a partnership with The Jewish Plays Project and a fulllength play in June.

SNH: So with everything going on at the JCC and all the theater options available in the area, why are you creating a theater company at the JCC? What kind of theater will you do?

There’ve been a number of recent Jewish-themed productions at area theaters that have been very successful.

Clearly there’s an audience for theater on Jewish themes. If you look in the We sat down with DeDe to talk about back of any local theater’s playbill, you’ll her vision for cultural arts at the JCC. see there are numerous Jewish families who are partnering to make theater SNH: Let’s talk about the Arts and happen in New Haven. So if there are Culture Festival. Is this any differtheater-loving Jews and love for Jewish ent than the Book Festival that’s theater, why not create a Jewish theater been held every November? What’s company? I’m very interested in new changed? plays and playwrights that push the We wanted to keep the literary events that we’ve done in the past, but broaden boundaries of what Jewish theater is and can be. the focus to all kinds of Jewish cultural arts. We have some very diverse author SNH: Are you going to hire profesevents, including one for children, a sional actors, or will this be more of a poetry reading, a play by New Haven native Richard Krevolin and Rabbi Irwin community theater?

Both! Jew-ish is going to be a community Kula, and the 9th Annual Arts & Crafts Fair. Several artists we spoke with were production. We’ll also have professionallevel productions in our season, with the all available during November and December, so instead of juggling a book goal of bringing in outside talent and putting JCC Theaterworks ‘on the map’ festival and other one-off events, we in terms of Jewish and regional theater decided to bring everyone together for organizations. Some shows will be at a month-long celebration of Jews makthe JCC itself, some will be at venues ing art. There’s definitely something for downtown and in other neighborhoods. everyone!

The New Haven Jewish community goes beyond the JCC building, so our theater SNH: What is this Jew-ish event on should as well.

Dec. 15?

That’s the launch production of JCC SNH: How can people get involved?

Theaterworks, which I’m really excited Just get in touch with me! I’d love to hear about! The full title is Jew-ish: A Onenew ideas and work together. I’m at Page Play Festival Exploring Jewish Identity and Community. It’s going to be dedek@jccnh.org or 203 387-2522 x300. an evening of short plays delving into the many meanings of being Jewish today. One-page plays give quick, mean-

Peter Harris Olin Photography

In September, the JCC welcomed DeDe Jacobs-Komisar as Cultural Arts Manager.

DeDe recently received an MFA in Theater Management from Yale School of Drama. Her husband, Rabbi Yaakov Komisar, teaches Middle School Judaics at Ezra Academy, and their son attends Yeladim Early Learning Center at the JCC. The family moved to New Haven in 2009.

Second Annual Bagel Run a Huge Success On a beautiful Sunday morning in September, hundreds of runners descended on the JCC for the second annual Murray Lender 5K Bagel Run. This year’s run, presented through a generous sponsorship from Marcum Accountants and Advisors as well as 26 other businesses and individuals (see our complete list at www.jccnh.org/bagel-run.aspx), drew nearly 300 runners, more than three times as many as the inaugural run last year. The Kids Run kicked off the day as nearly 50 children followed the giant bagel mascot to the start line. The 5K run had nearly 250 participants and was highlighted by the performances of Adam Kelley, overall men’s winner, and Martha Santandreu, overall women’s winner. They joined first-, second- and third-place finishers in 16 different age categories to receive gold, silver or bronze bagel necklaces -- and some bagels to take home.

Thanks to all the hard work of a dedicated group of volunteers led by Erika Shea and Bob Felice, the second annual Murray Lender 5K Bagel Run was a huge success.

Towers Residents Perform at Long Wharf The Elder Play Project was funded through a grant awarded to Long Wharf Theatre from the Seedlings Foundation. Participants were theatre enthusiasts and avid readers and writers. They were full of energy and fully engaged, and though some were shy at first about being on stage, everyone seemed excited at the prospect of a final performance at the Long Wharf Theatre.

The theme of exploring memory and illustrating character through language would become a firm foundation for the coursework, and the residents explored it further as they prepared to see productions in Long Wharf’s 2011-12 season.

After writing about their careers, discussions about living at the Towers formed the theme for “September House.” The residents related to “February House,” a musical about writers and artist living together in a single home. With the Towers residents being wiser, they decided to title their piece “September House.”

In addition to those pictured, Towers residents who participated were Helen Drucker, Ida Fidler, Marion Hubelbank, Pearl Hubelbank, Sidney Hubelbank, Anne Kaplan, Gladys Pine, Sylvia Rifkin, Sylvia Rosenthal, Cyvia Scharmett, Dorothy Spector, Corky Weinstein and Wolf Zelinger.

Don’t miss the ENCORE Performance of “September House” on Thursday, Dec. 6 at 7 p.m. in the Tower One Dining Room, 18 Tower Lane, New Haven. For more information, call 203 772-1816.

Find out more about Cultural Arts at the JCC

jccnh.org

From left to right: Tower One/Tower East residents Eva Kahn, Leah Wallach and Eva Cooper performing their own personal monologues in “September House” on the Long Wharf Theatre stage.

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Synagogues Congregation B’nai Jacob Our Rabbis Speak

Rabbi Dana Z. Bogatz Congregation Sinai in Milford

D’var Torah On Sunday, Oct. 14, the Hebrew Congregation of Woodmont suffered a devastating fire that gutted their building. It is for them, and for all who are struggling against debilitating forces, that this is written.

It is fall, the season which leads from the lushness of summer to the bleak landscape of winter. The animals are stocking up on food and growing their winter coats. The vegetation which crowded us all summer is dying back. Our lawns are dry and brown. We bring plants into the house to save them from freezing. All of nature is telling us that life as we know it is coming to an end. Nature is packing it in, going dormant.

It would seem counterintuitive that any plant would sprout and grow in the fall, adding new green life to our browning environment. But that is exactly what happens when you plant grass seed in autumn. It grows into lush tender shoots that carpet the ground. It seems the new grass does not know what the other plants know – that the world is ending. That newly sprouted grass will survive snow and freezing cold, and be green and healthy when spring finally comes.

The operative element here is the act of planting. If we but place the seed and make sure it is watered, it will take root and grow – even when everything else around it is dying off.

Sometimes it seems that ‘everything’ is going against us, that it would be counterintuitive to start over or begin a new pursuit. We must learn from the grass seed and plant despite the cold; and nurture new growth in the midst of the dry, crumbling leaves.

About Congregation Sinai Congregation Sinai, now an egalitarian Conservative synagogue, began in 1929 in West Haven. Its first building was on New Street. It soon outgrew that space and built a new building across the lot facing Washington Avenue. Rabbi Leon Mirsky was the spiritual leader. While services and school were held in the Washington Avenue building, the New Street building was used for administration and social activities. Eventually the New Street building was demolished to expand the parking lot.

During those years the congregation was vibrant and active. The Hebrew school had over 150 students, a Mr. and Mrs. Club organized dances and other social activities, and the Sunshine Seniors provided a gathering place for the senior community.

Following Rabbi Mirsky’s retirement, Rabbi Larry Heimer became spiritual leader.

The congregation began to count women in the minyan. On May 9, 1988, the shul suffered a devastating fire. Services were held temporarily in a church. The decision was made to rebuild and beautify the two-story building. The sanctuary and chapel were renovated, empty classrooms were turned into offices, and an elevator was installed to provide handicapped access.

Rabbi Heimer was followed by a succession of rabbis. But the congregation was aging and the demographics of West Haven were shifting. The school declined along with the dwindling membership. The building needed significant repairs.

Mergers were discussed and rejected; Congregation Sinai was determined to maintain its own identity.

In 2002 Rabbi Dana Bogatz, a graduate of the Jewish Theological Seminary, was hired. A few young families joined and a small Hebrew school was established; the congregation celebrated the first bar mitzvah in more than 10 years. Shortly thereafter, the congregation decided to sell the building and move to Milford, which did not have a year-round, full-service synagogue. The congregation leased a space on Old Gate Lane, allowing enough time for renovations to be completed before the High Holy Days 2007. Naturally the renovations took much longer than anticipated, so Congregation Sinai went in search of a temporary home in Milford and found themselves sharing space with Woodmont United Church of Christ, where they observed the High Holy Days and Sukkot. They moved into Old Gate Lane Thanksgiving weekend 2007.

CBJ Adult Ed presents Pulitzer Prize-winning Journalist David Wessel Sunday, Nov. 4, 10:00 a.m.

The entire community is invited to hear David Wessel speak about his newest book, “RED INK: Inside the High-Stakes Politics of the Federal Budget,” on Sun., Nov. 4 at 10:00 a.m. at Congregation B’nai Jacob.

“RED INK” is a compelling, accessible account of the people and politics behind the federal budget detailing how we got here, where the trillions come from, where they go, and why this can’t go on forever. Wessel will present these mind-boggling facts and figures in context and explain why they matter and how we arrived at our current fiscal crisis.

Weaving facts and figures with anecdotes about the key personalities — including Defense Secretary Leon Panetta, White House Chief of Staff Jack Lew, as well as vice presidential candidate Paul Ryan — Wessel will explain how the government grew to its current scale and illustrate where the money actually goes.

Wessel is the Economics Editor for The Wall Street Journal and writes the ‘Capital’ column, a weekly look at the economy and the forces shaping living standards around the world. He also wrote the New York Times bestseller “In Fed We Trust: Ben Bernanke’s War on the Great Panic” (2009).

Copies of “RED INK” will be available for purchase and signing following the program.

Cong. B’nai Jacob, 75 Rimmon Rd., Woodbridge. For more information, call 203 389-2111 or log onto www.bnaijacob.org

Gan Hayeled Early Childhood Center to Celebrate Hanukah with Seniors On Dec. 13, children from the three- and four-year-old classes at Gan Hayeled will visit The Willows Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Woodbridge to share the joy of the holiday through song and dance. The children, who are learning traditional and modern Hanukah songs leading up to the holiday, will proudly celebrate and bring joy to their senior neighbors.

Gan Hayeled Early Childhood Center, 75 Rimmon Rd., Woodbridge, is a preschool for children ages 2-5. For more information, call 203 389-2111 x214 or ganhayeled@gmail.com

Congregation Mishkan Israel Pre-Election Discussion Series to Feature Healthcare Expert Nancy Yedlin Healthcare expert Nancy Yedlin will be speaking at Congregation Mishkan Israel at Shabbat evening services on Friday, Nov. 2 at 6:00 p.m. Ms. Yedlin will discuss health care and the impact of the election on the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (aka “Obamacare”).

Ms Yedlin is Vice President at the Donaghue Foundation, a private funder of health-related research aimed at improving health status, community and public health, and the delivery of health services.

She is also co-chair of the Business Plan Workgroup convened by the State of Connecticut Health Care Cabinet.

Ms. Yedlin’s talk is part of a Pre-Election Discussion series hosted by the synagogue’s Social Action Committee. The discussion is free of charge and open to the community.

Congregation Mishkan Israel is a Reform synagogue located at 785 Ridge Road in Hamden. For more information, contact the synagogue office at 203 288-3877.

In the new space the Hebrew school grew, membership increased and programming reached new heights. Unfortunately the cost of the lease also reached new heights, so in June 2012 the congregation moved back to Woodmont United Church of Christ, located at 1000 New Haven Ave., where it is today.

Congregation Sinai maintains a Hebrew school and holds Shabbat and holiday services as well as a Sunday minyan/family service. It is a year-round, full-service synagogue that has stuck together and maintained its unique identity for more than 80 years.

For more information, contact Congregation Sinai at 203 301-0558.

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Congregation Or Shalom Kristallnacht Commemoration Highlights Hiram Bingham IV Sunday, Nov. 4, 10:00-11:30 am On Nov. 4, Or Shalom will host its annual Kristallnacht Commemoration Program. This year the focus is on Hiram (“Harry”) Bingham IV, who served as the American vice-consul in Marseilles, France, during 1939-1941.

The U.S. State Department, in an effort to maintain normal relations with France’s Vichy regime, strongly discouraged its diplomats in France from helping people escape the Nazi occupation. In defiance of his superiors’ restrictive policies, Bingham helped thousands who would have been targeted for liquidation by the Nazi regime, to emigrate. As a result of his selflessness, Bingham succeeded in obtaining life-saving visas for artist Marc Chagall, philosopher Hannah Arendt, Nobel Laureate Otto Meyerhoff and many, many other refugees trapped in France.

Our speakers will be Robert Kim Bingham (Hiram’s son) and Bella Chagall Meyer, granddaughter of Marc Chagall. Robert Bingham is the author of the book “Courageous Dissent” about his father’s humanitarian actions, which were discovered only after his death in 1988 at the age of 84. In 2002, the U.S. State Department posthumously awarded him the “Constructive Dissent” award. In 2006, the U.S. Postal Service issued a commemorative stamp portraying Hiram Bingham IV as a “Distinguished American Diplomat.”

Please join us for this community-wide event.

Coffee & Learn Classes Begin Nov. 7 Congregation Or Shalom is once again offering its free Coffee & Learn classes lead

by Or Shalom Rabbi Alvin Wainhaus. Each week, the Rabbi addresses interesting and sometimes amusing topics regarding Judaism, Bible, Yiddish and much more.

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Synagogues Westville Synagogue Westville Synagogue Hanukkah Party Sunday, Dec. 9, 2012 Crafts, Driedels, Prizes, Good Eats! Bring your own wine and enjoy the evening

Westville University An educational initiative that offers dynamic high-level programming to the community reflecting our commitment to Jewish learning, history, culture, law and the State of Israel.

Wednesday, Nov. 7, 8:00 p.m.

Rabbi Fred Hyman, Westville Shul Topic: “What’s new in the world of kashrut” Co-sponsored by the Vaad Hakashrut of Fairfield County Saturday, Nov. 17, 8:00 p.m.

Film: “Ahead of Her Time: Ruth Gruber” Discussion led by Stanley Dalnekoff Tuesday, Nov. 27, 8:00 p.m.

Shira Breuer, Principal, Pelech School, Jerusalem Topic: “The status of Jewish education in Israel” Saturday, Dec. 1, 8:00 p.m.

Film: “Footnotes” Discussion led by Stanley Dalnekoff Tuesday, Dec. 4, 8:00 p.m.

David Staum Topic: “Changing minhagim in Jewish history” All programs will be held at Westville Synagogue, 74 West Prospect St., New Haven. For more information, call 203 389-9513 or go to www.westvilleshul.org/

This year, Rabbi Wainhaus will begin the classes with, “Current Hot Topics and the Book of Genesis.”

Classes are every Wednesday beginning Nov. 7 through March, 11 a.m.- noon.

All are welcome. There is no charge and no reservations are required.

Refreshments (Coffee and) are served.

Temple Beth Sholom

Kinder Kreations

Thursday, Nov. 15, 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, Nov. 18, 9:15 a.m.

Congregation Or Shalom of Orange is once again sponsoring Kinder Kreations, a free pre-school event for children. The purpose of the program is to provide 3and 4-year-olds with the sights, sounds and sensations of Judaism while introducing them to a synagogue environment.

Rabbi Alvin Wainhaus and Education Director Barbara Shevis will lead the program. Each session will include a story and songs, arts and crafts, and a snack.

Kinder Kreations is free and open to the public.

Nu Haven Kapelye Concert Temple Beth Sholom, 1809 Whitney Ave., Hamden, is hosting a Klezmer concert featuring The Nu Haven Kapelye, a large group of New Haven-area Klezmer musicians. They will play Klezmer and Yiddish music from Romania, Hungary, Bessarabia and other Eastern European areas. The concert is sponsored by the Temple Beth Sholom Adult Education, the L’Chaim Lecture Series, and the Fine and Fishman Funds.

Free and open to the public. Please RSVP by Nov. 12 by calling the Temple office at 203 288-7748.

RSVP is required by Wednesday, Nov. 14 to educationaldirector@orshalomct.org.

Shabbat Dinner and Hanukah Celebration

Hanukah Celebration with “Latkes & Magic”

Friday, Dec. 14, 5:30 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 14, 7:00 p.m.

Cong. Or Shalom will hold its annual Hanukah celebration. The evening will begin at 7:00 pm. We will gather in the lobby around the menorah and sing Hanukah songs. Following the menorah lighting, there will be a brief Friday evening service followed by an Oneg Shabbat of “Latkes & Magic”: lots of latkes and cookies, and a magician to entertain the young and young at heart. The Rabbi will be handing out gelt and dreidels for all children in attendance. All are welcome to join us.

Featuring Rabbi Scolnic as Judah Maccabee and the TBS Macabee Players. Join us for food, fun, songs and games. Presented by Adult Education and Hebrew School.

Adults $18, children $8. Please RSVP by Dec. 10 by contacting Joan Levine at 203 248-8549 or joannsteve@sbcglobal.net.

Temple Beth Sholom is a Conservative egalitarian synagogue with over 400 member families and singles from throughout Greater New Haven. For more information: www.tbshamden.com

Congregation Or Shalom, 205 Old Grassy Hill Road, Orange. For more information, contact Jody Dietch at 203 799-2341 or info@orshalomct.org.

Temple Emanuel Hanukah Happenings Friday evening, Dec. 14

Come join the fun and celebrate Hanukah at Temple Emanuel. We will welcome Shabbat with a service including music by the Temple Emanuel Band, light our chanukiot together and enjoy a delicious latke dinner with family and friends. All are welcome to participate in this joyous annual event.

Our Hanukah celebration is just one of many exciting events for families, individuals and children of all ages at Temple Emanuel. Recent programs include our multi-generational Sukkah build and family Sukkot program, highlighted by an adult study session, the creation of decorations for the Sukkah, and a family-style potluck dinner. Simchat Torah was marked by another family program including adult study, the consecration of new religious school students, and the opportunity for everyone in our community to dance with the Torah, with musical accompaniment by members of the TE Band. All of our events end with our famously tasty onegs.

For more information about Temple Emanuel programs, please go to www.templeemanuelgnh.org, or call the office at 203-397-3000.

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Shoreline

Rachelle Bergstein presents the history of Women and Shoes nonprofit Soles4Souls, the gathering On Sunday, Nov. 11 from 4-6 p.m. will kick into gear with a fashion forthe Shoreline office of the Jewish ward happy hour. Guests will have an Federation of Greater New Haven opportunity to network and Hadassah of the while sipping signature Shoreline will present ‘Shoetini’ cocktails among Rachelle Bergstein, displays of the latest author of “Women from and finest Israeli and the Ankle Down, The European shoes. Feed Story of Shoes and How the soul by donating a They Define Us.” As gently worn pair of shoes part of the JCC’s Arts to be distributed to the & Culture Festival, Ms. needy or repurposed into Bergstein will discuss eco-friendly material. this lively, compelling Joan Horton, owner of Lily look at the evolution of Rachelle Bergstein Juliet, and Hiltrud Correia, modern women and the owner of Trudy’s, assure fashion that reflects and us everyone will leave with a special shapes their changing lives.

But wait – this event will be more than gift. The event is being held at Lily Juliet Too, 20 Wall St., Madison. Lecture on just a lecture. Anchored by Lily Juliet, 2nd floor, book signing to follow. an Emporium of Design & Fashion at 20 Wall St. in Madison, Trudy’s European Shoes and Accessories at 71 Whitfield St. in Guilford, and the

Cost: $15. Purchase tickets at jccnh. org or call 203 387-2522 x225.

Shoreline Celebrates Sukkot with Pizza In the Hut

“Standing Silent” Kicks off Shoreline Film Series On Sunday, Sept. 23, over 100 people from the Shoreline and New Haven gathered at Madison Art Cinemas for a special showing of the film “Standing Silent” and a talkback with Baltimore Jewish Times editor Phil Jacobs and filmmaker Scott Rosenfelt. Recipient of a Sundance Documentary Filmmaker Grant, “Standing Silent” follows Phil Jacobs’ efforts to expose child sexual abuse in the Baltimore Jewish community. Jacobs was one of the first Jewish journalists to take on the stigmatized topic and confront an at times insular community to break through the silence and bring those responsible to justice.

“Standing Silent” depicts Jacobs’ journey to achieve healing and justice for survivors of sexual abuse. Assaulted as a young teen by a trusted youth advisor, Jacobs joined the Orthodox community as an adult to “find a sense of safety” in a world supposedly operating according to a set of higher values. That perception was blown apart when Jacobs, at the prodding of other survivors in a mostly-Orthodox support group, began an investigative series exposing a number of perpetrators, including several prominent rabbis in the community.

While the film shows Jacobs’ difficulties in dealing with parts of the community which “stood silent” as the actuality of sexual abuse came to light, he stated during the talkback that he is optimistic about how the issue is now being handled in Baltimore. He discussed numerous community meetings that followed

On Oct. 4, 25 members of the Shoreline Jewish community came together to celebrate the harvest festival of Sukkot. Rabbi Yossi Yaffe, of Chabad of the Shoreline, donated and erected a Sukkah in the back field behind the Shoreline Federation office at Lighthouse Square in Guilford. Temple Beth Tikvah in Madison donated chairs.

Families arrived to a roomful of craft activities and fun games provided by the Director of PJ Library coordinator Saskia Swenson Moss, Rochel Baila Yaffe of Chabad, and Jill Lesage, Jewish Federation Shoreline program coordinator on the Shoreline.

Everyone helped decorate the Sukkah and Rabbi Hesch Sommer led families in study, song and prayer. Each person shared in the mitzvah of shaking the lulav and etrog, donated by Chabad of the Shoreline, and enjoyed pizza provided by the JCC’s Mike’s Kosher Café.

Breaking the Silence: the release of the film, as well as the establishment of the Shofar Coalition, an arm of the local Jewish Federation providing support to survivors and education to the larger community.

The movie was the first documentary made by filmmaker Scott Rosenfelt, producer of hits including “Home Alone” and “Mystic Pizza.” Rosenfelt and Jacobs met through the former’s brother, a close friend of Jacobs. “As soon as I heard his story, I knew I had to make this film,” said Rosenfelt during the talkback. “I could always have made it as a feature, but there are moments in the film where people are telling their stories that are so real and raw, you could never coach an actor into having the same impact.”

Rabbi Hesch Sommer of Jewish Family Service introduced the film, placing the movie in the greater context of the Days of Awe, the ten days of repentance and reflection that encompass Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, during which the event was held. Rabbi Sommer also moderated the talkback and was available as a therapeutic resource.

“Standing Silent” premiered at the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival in 2011 and has since been shown at festivals throughout the United States, Canada and Israel. The film has been picked up by a major distributor and should arrive in theaters in the next few months.

Rabbi Hesch Sommer helps Michael Moleski shake the lulav and etrog.

Many thanks go out to all the generous volunteers who made this day possible.

The B Foundation Now accepting grant applications from Internal Revenue Service qualified 501(C)(3) organizations which seek assistance consistent with the goals of the “B” Foundation to help feed, care, or educate society.

The grants will range from $1,000 to $10,000 and will be awarded by the end of the calendar year.

Please submit your written request by November 15, 2012 to: The “B” Foundation

P.O. Box 3756, Woodbridge, CT 06525 page 14

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Ezra Grads are Finalists in International Essay Contest Emmy Roday, of Orange, and Joni Weintraub, of Woodbridge, were recently named two of the five finalists in the prestigious annual Morris J. and Betty Kaplun Foundation Essay Contest.

Their essays were written last year when they were 8th-graders at Ezra Academy and were selected from among more than 550 entries submitted in the 7th-, 8th-, and 9th-grade category. Roday and Weintraub were honored at a luncheon in June at the Museum of Jewish Heritage in Battery Park in New York City.

Their essay topic was, “Honoring Thy Father and Mother: How and why, from your own perspective.” Through the essay contest, the Foundation seeks to encourage young people to treasure their Jewish heritage, reflect on Jewish values, and better understand Judaism’s contribution to civilization and culture. Entries come from throughout the United States, Canada and other countries around the world, including India and Turkey.

“The contest encourages participants to think about their values, formulate their ideas, and articulate them in their essays,” said Aaron Seligson, president of the Kaplun Foundation.

“Morris J. Kaplun, our founder, would be very pleased that he has been able to inspire so many young people from all over the world.”

Shabbat Friends!

Growing a community of young families at our JCC who want to learn and celebrate being Jewish with their toddlers, through music, art, storytelling, and experiential learning.

Featuring weekly guest educators from around Greater New Haven!

November Shabbat Friends 11/2 Take a journey to Israel with Yeladim Director Lynn Bullard 11/9 Get ready to dance with the JCC’s Dance Director Christine Gambardella 11/16 Time to Bake! Come make cookies to package as Thanksgiving gifts

for families in need.

11/23 No Shabbat Friends (Thanksgiving weekend) 11/30 Shabbat Sing Along with Saskia Swenson Moss

Award receipient Emmy Roday, of Orange

For more information, contact Saskia Swenson Moss at 203 387-2522 x317 or saskiasm@jccnh.org

Refer a Child to PJ Library and Enter a Drawing for a Kindle Fire!

Share PJ Library with your friends!

PJ Library of Greater New Haven is our award-winning Jewish outreach program which provides free Jewish books and music to children 6 months through 8 years.

Award receipient Joni Weintraub, of Woodbridge

Established in 1955, the Morris J. and Betty Kaplun Foundation is a non-profit philanthropic organization devoted to the eleemosynary, humanitarian and Jewish concerns of its founders, Morris J. and Betty Kaplun, who were refugees from Nazi persecution. The Foundation awards grants to a wide variety of educational, scientific and charitable institutions.

And now, for a limited time, every time an eligible child signs up for New Haven’s PJ Library program and writes your name as the referral source, you’ll be entered into a drawing for a brand-new Kindle Fire!

So tell your friends and help spread the word about PJ – and maybe you’ll win a new Kindle in the bargain!

Contest ends Dec. 13, 2012. The winner will be announced later that day at our Hanukkah magic show at the JCC at 6:00 p.m.!

Peter Harris Olin Ph oto

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The JCC Celebrates 100 Years

Clockwise: Stan and Donna Hersh, Jan and Steve Miller celebrating Havdalah; Past Presidents (standing left to right): Mark Sklarz, Rob Harris, John Lichtman, Andrew Eder, Joel Karp, Marc Olins, Bruce Jacobs (seated left to right): Steve Miller, Lindy Lee Gold, Deborah R. Witkin, Lawrence Shanbrom; Jan Miller, Shelley Gans, Syndey Perry dance the horah; Honorary Chairs: Governor Dannel Malloy with Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro; (center photo): Mayor John DeStefano, Jr., First Selectman Edward Maum Sheehy, Steve Miller; (bottom left): Jeff Sklarz and Mark Sklarz address the celebrants.

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the franz rosenzweig lectures Made possible by a gift from the Estate of Arthur A. Cohen

Nationalism, Liberalism and Religion in Modern-Day Israel presented by

Moshe Halbertal Gruss Professor of Law, New York University; Professor, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel

Moshe Halbertal is the Gruss Professor at NYU Law School and Professor of Jewish Thought and Philosophy at the Hebrew University. He received his Ph.D. from the Hebrew University in 1989, and from 1988–1992 he was a fellow at the Society of Fellows at Harvard University. He is the author of the books “Idolatry” (co-authored with Avishai Margalit) and “People of the Book: Canon, Meaning and Authority,” both published by Harvard University Press. He is as well the author of the book “Concealment and Revelation: Esotericism in Jewish Thought and Its Philosophical Implications,” published by Princeton University Press. His latest book “On Sacrifice” was published by Princeton University Press in 2012. Moshe Halbertal is a member of Israel’s National Academy for Sciences and the Humanities.

what is a jewish democratic state?

October 30 – 7 pm

on the ethical challenges of contemporary warfare: the case of israel November 1 – 7 pm

judaism and its encounter with the state of israel November 7 – 7 pm All lectures will take place at the Yale Law School, 127 Wall Street Sponsored by the Program in Judaic Studies

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Room 127

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New Haven, CT