the Rohr Chabad Center for Jewish Student Life at binghamton University
420 Murray Hill Rd. • Vestal, NY 13850 607-797-0015 info@chabadofbinghamton.com www.JewishbU.com
Dear Friend,
A word from tHE dirECtors
"When a person is uprooted from his habitual environment... there come to light certain traits of his inner character as they are in their purity, undistorted by the expectations of society. Often, these traits reveal the hidden good in this person, of which perhaps even he himself had been unaware, because they were hidden under the layers of 'manners' and social conventions. Fortunate is the person who does not allow these traits to disappear when he subsequently settles down and finds tranquility..."
The above is a brief extraction from a letter written by the Rebbe in December of 1944. It is characteristic of the Rebbe’s focus on finding the positive—even in the experience of a refugee, uprooted from his home and fleeing for his life-- and on moving forward.
These words bear contemplation as we emerge from the Covid pandemic. While it was a trying time to be sure—we all felt like strangers in a strange land, we were all fleeing danger-- it also offered us treasured opportunities. It taught us how to cherish quiet over tumult and intimacy over large crowds; to savor concentrated time with our loved ones and to turn inwards rather than escape our own company by “going out.”
Our health care workers showed an unparalleled level of self-sacrifice, and rank and file Americans found creative ways to help each other. Perhaps, more than anything else, Covid foisted upon us a unique study in humility, in accepting the limitations of our knowledge and power. It suspended our illusion of control; it chipped away at our postmodern smugness. Covid revealed both how similar we all our and how profoundly different can be our reactions to what life brings our way.
As we move towards the light, we pray not to return to normal but to bring into our everyday a heightened appreciation for life, for our loved ones, for what we can each contribute. Let us seek to infuse the ordinary with an extraordinary vigor and focus on goodness and kindness.
Volume 11, Issue 2
Published by CHabad of biNgHaMtoN
Contact us at: hakesher@JewishbU.com
Editor Rivkah Slonim
Staff Writer alan Zeitlin
Proofreading Marlene Serkin, Chaya M. Slonim
design & Printing The printhouse
Photo Credits Courtney aslan
Rosalie Coschignano
Danielle kinches
Shoshana klein
CoVER Photo bY daniELLE KinChES
Photo taken before onset of Shabbat.
To all of our readers, we wish you a healthy, safe and productive transition; we are so happy to be at “the other end. “To our dear graduates, we say L’hitraot; it is never goodbye at Chabad. Along with the Cheins, Slonims Jr. and Ohanas, we watch you leave with great pride and anticipate the wonderful ways in which you will make your mark on the world that awaits you. We will miss you greatly so-
N’hiye B’kesher, let’s stay connected and in touch!
Hakesher Dedication
This magazine is dedicated in loving memory of Dovid ben Yitzchak Meir Zenilman on the occasion of his 28th Yahrtzeit. dr. michael and marilyn Zenilman and their children — Jeremy ‘06, Elliot ‘09 (and Karen), daniel ‘09 (and Erin), ariela (and Jeremy) ‘11, Joshua, dodi ‘15, avital, Shoshana and miriam.
May 2021, Volume 11, Issue 2 Hakesher is published four times a year; September, December, March and May by Chabad of Binghamton, 420 Murray Hill Rd., Vestal, NY 13850. Postage paid at Newark, NJ post offices.
Based on the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe of righteous memory
the world is a Ball
By Rabbi Yanki Tauber
Large, round object. Move it towards the goal; get it through the doorway. Outmaneuver those big, burly guys trying to stop you, trying to take it from you. Be quick. Use your feet.
Sounds familiar? Sounds like my life.
“From everything that one sees or hears about,” taught Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov, “one should derive a lesson in the service of the Creator.”
Perhaps the most popular sport on earth today is the game of soccer, or “football” (as it is called outside of the United States). As is the case with every phenomenon in G-d’s world, this game can serve as a model and metaphor for our mission in life.
The objective of the game is to move a ball into a “goal”or “gate.” This would be fairly easy to achieve were it not for the fact that facing the players is an opposing team which will do everything in its power to prevent them from scoring a “goal.” But then again, if there were no opposing team, the full extent of the players’ skill and power would never be actualized. For such is the nature of the human being: our most potent potentials are awakened only by challenge and adversity.
The ball can be maneuvered with various parts of the player’s body, but the game is played primarily with the feet. The game requires much skill, but no less important is the player’s speed—much depends on whether a player can outrun his opponent and move more quickly than he.
What can all this teach us regarding our daily endeavors and inner lives?
The earth is a sphere—a fact noted nearly two thousand years ago by the Jerusalem Talmud. The objective of life is to move this “ball” into the shaar haMelech—the gate of the King. By fulfilling the mitzvot of the Torah, we move the world toward the goal of its creation.
At our every step, we are challenged by a formidable opposing team—composed of our own negative traits
Based on an address by the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Nissan 26, 5740 (April 10, 1980).
and habits and a host of external foes—who obstruct our advance toward the goal and seek to move the ball in the opposite direction. But it is the perpetual presence of this opposition that provokes our deepest potentials and maximizes our achievements.
A key factor in achieving victory is speed. The most skillful player will be quite ineffective if his movements are slow, plodding, and unenthusiastic. Similarly, a person’s life must be animated with alacrity and joy in order that his deeds should translate into scored goals and a true impact upon his world.
The other important lesson is never to underestimate the power of the feet. To advance the ball towards its goal, we make use of the full array of our faculties, from “head” to “foot”—our minds, our capacity for feeling, our talents and our physical energy. But our most important faculty is the “feet,” which represents our capacity for action and “mindless” obedience. Although it constitutes the “lowest” and least sophisticated of our faculties, it is our unequivocal commitment to the divine will and the physical action of the mitzvot that has the greatest impact upon our world and is the most powerful force for its advancement and ultimate realization.
Yanki Tauber is a chassidic scholar and the author of eleven books—including the groundbreaking Book of Jewish Knowledge— and hundreds of essays on Jewish and Hasidic thought. From 1999 to 2014 he served as content editor of Chabad.org, the world’s largest Jewish educational website. Tauber is currently a senior editor at the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute. He is also editor-inchief of The Book, a new translation and anthologized commentary for the Five Books of Moses.
Comixing the Parsha humor
By Alan Zeitlin ‘00
The Egyptians were not able to find Nemo when they drowned in the Yam Suf, the Sea of Reeds. But Binghamton University freshman Sam Weingard decided to put it in one of his cartoons anyway. The former SAR student likes to spice things up; as a junior in high school he started to draw “Kosher Comix” in black and white based on the weekly parasha.
The 18-yearold said it is distributed in synagogues and schools around the country and has even made its way to Paris. He said he gets plenty of compliments for the humor in them. He said each comic strip takes about 12 hours to produce and he seeks out sponsors for them. Besides giving people a chuckle, he hopes his work will inspire people to take a more in-depth look at the parsha when they have the time. He said some professional newspaper editors told
them gaining 15 pounds?
“Weight gain didn’t happen with me; anyone who is worried about that can work off the calories by walking to Chabad,” he said.
Weingard said his living situation has two great benefits. First, by living in Dickinson, he is closest to Chabad. The second is so rare it may get unicorn status when it comes to on campus housing for freshmen.
“No one matched with me so I got a room for myself” he said.
Weingard said Chabad of Binghamton sets itself apart because the Chabad staff is so welcoming to all students and is interested in their well-being. He noted the two-shift socially distant Friday night dinners due to Covid and said he hopes when enough students are vaccinated it will go back to one large meal.
“My favorite is the cranberry apple kugel,” he said. “It’s amazing.”
Weingard who is from Riverdale said his classes are going well and he is looking forward to returning to classrooms, though virtual learning is not without its perks.
“You don’t have to go anywhere and you can be in whatever clothes you want so there is kind of no excuse to be late to
What about the feared "freshman 15," which refers to freshmen who due to anxiety and being able to eat for the first time without their parents watching them often leads to
Weingard, who enjoys playing Spike-ball and once dressed up as a James Bond-type character for Purim hopes to shake and stir people up with his take on the Torah portions.
He said the ones around Chanukah and Purim are more fun to do and he sometimes makes them longer.
“I may make a book out of it,” he said.
Alan Zeitlin teaches English and Journalism at a Brooklyn public high school.
It takes an extraordinary person to be an angel.
The children of Chai Lifeline are grateful to the many super-extraordinary people at The Rohr Chabad Center for Jewish Student Life and Sigma Delta Tau at
BINGHAMTON UNIVERSITY
For being our amazing Chanukah Angels.
We love the toys, games, and gifts. But we are blown away by the caring and compassion that led you to make sure our Chanukahs were super bright this year.
L HakesHeR gRadUation fEatURE
SeniorS SPeAk out
After 4 years the graduates know it all!
We asked our graduates to share their thoughts, feelings and hard earned wisdom:
Matthew Benak
MaJoR: ppl
MiNoR: israel studies
fUtURe PlaNs: Working as paralegal followed by law school.
nicole Chernow
MaJoR: History
MiNoR: Judaic studies
fUtURe PlaNs: suny downstate nursing
Shelli Cohen
MaJoR: math
fUtURe PlaNs: Hoping to work for a nonprofit in dC
Jordyn Finkel
MaJoR: History
MiNoR: Cinema
fUtURe PlaNs: looking for a job in tV production
nikki Flamenbaum
MaJoR: ppl and Judaic studies
fUtURe PlaNs: Working in manhattan
PleASe deSCriBe how your Four yeArS in BinghAMton hAve iMPACted your JewiSh identity And Feeling oF ConneCtion to the JewiSh CoMMunity And how ChABAd wAS involved in thAt ProCeSS.
Growing up as a Modern Orthodox Jew, there was a large focus on the actions: going to minyan, keeping kosher, not violating Shabbat etc. I ran through the motions because I appreciated that it gave structure to my life. However, during my college years I was able to create a deeper connection to my Judaism. I identified my Jewish values and tried to stand by those values both within the Jewish community and Binghamton University community. I found the religious foundation for my beliefs, which made my work even more meaningful. Chabad helped me through that process, in turn strengthening my relationship with my Judaism. I am so thankful for all that Chabad has given me over the past 3 years. SC
When I first got to Binghamton, I had no idea how strong of an impact Chabad would have on my life and how involved I would be. There is not a day that goes by that I don’t walk into the building for a meeting, class, meal, or event. This year, I spent more time in Chabad than I did on campus. I am so grateful for the relationships I have built with the Shluchim and friendships I have made along the way. My involvement on the Eboard for the past three years has shaped me into the person I am. Thank you Chabad for everything, I will miss you! AH
While I did not get to spend four years at Binghamton University because I am a transfer student, my time at Binghamton University had positively impacted my Jewish identity. As someone who grew up in an overwhelmingly non-Jewish neighborhood and had many non-
Jewish friends, I am proud to say that I have made many Jewish friends through both Chabad and Hillel. I am also proud to say that I feel a super strong connection to the Jewish community. Even though I grew up Reform Jewish and stopped attending synagogue after my Bat Mitzvah, once I began attending weekly Shabbats, each member of Chabad was genuinely interested in my well being, was super generous, and highly hospitable. HM
Binghamton University gave me a new perspective on what it means to be a part of a Jewish Community. Chabad gave me the opportunity to strengthen my Jewish identity by actively participating in the organization. Helping other students strengthen their Jewish identity through Chabad impacted my Jewish identity more than I thought it would. I think this can be seen in all students who walk through the doors. Chabad gives students not only an outlet to explore their Jewish identity but also provides a sense of purpose in strengthening others, whether it be going to minyan everyday or checking temperatures before an event, students helping each other facilitate a Jewish identity in each other strengthens our own. HH
My Jewish identity during my four years in Binghamton has definitely taken a backseat. I have not attended as many of the vital services at Chabad as I would have liked, and I have not made a lot of Jewish friends at Chabad. At the same time though, it is not through malice. Chabad has made me realize that I need to achieve a proper balance if I truly want to be observant and modern all
at once, and that a welcoming hand is always extended at Chabad, even if the majority of visiting students take the organization for granted. JL
Chabad at Binghamton created the perfect environment for me after coming from my year in Israel. I was able to continue my learning, have beautiful shabboses, and meet new people that continue to have an impact on my life. College is a very formative time in your life, and having the Chabad community to turn to whenever I needed anything, allowed me to stay on the path I intended for myself and develop into the person I wanted to be. AW
My years at Binghamton have taught me that my connection to Judaism is what I choose to make of it. Chabad has given me that place to prioritize my connection to Judaism and give back to my own community. Regularly attending Chabad, helping whenever I can and spearheading Mega Challah Bake has given me immense purpose outside of my academic pursuits. Chabad has made me feel connected to my own Jewish identity and to the Binghamton Jewish community and for that I am forever grateful. AS
I came into university not knowing what Jewish life in college would be for me. From the start, Chabad gave me every reason to want to be involved in the Jewish community with amazing events, food, and friendly people. I am so happy and thankful that I had the opportunity to make so many friends at Chabad. Through countless shabbat meals, nights at cafe, deli and BNO, I count myself extremely lucky to have been
SeniorS spEakout
daniel gabel
MaJoR: Human development
MiNoR: Education / Judaic studies
fUtURe PlaNs: move to Baltimore and find a job
a spECial HakEsHEr graduation fEaturE
Justin glickman
MaJoR: Electrical Engineering
fUtURe PlaNs: master's in Electrical Engineering at Binghamton
able to be involved with Chabad at Binghamton and I just want to say thank you Chabad! AG
In the four years I have been here in Binghamton, my Jewish identity has been complicated. Through loss and hard times my faith went down. Last year, when Camren Vilinsky passed, I felt the need to take another look at my own Judaism inspired by Camren’s everlasting love for Judaism. Chabad gave me the space necessary to investigate my Jewish identity. Through this investigation I found a true appreciation for Judaism and I became a regular in the morning Minyan before COVID19. I just want to take the chance to thank all the Rabbis and Rebbetzins who have helped me along this crazy journey I have been on.I will never forget my time and the memories I have made here at Chabad. DG
Attending a school where there is a large Jewish population has made me connect deeply with my own Jewish Identity. Attending Chabad events and weekly Shabbat dinners has led to many new friendships and connections that I am extremely grateful for. Chabad has created an incredibly tight knit and large community of Jewish students that has made me feel a sense of belonging that I have not felt prior to coming to Binghamton. I am very thankful for the role Chabad has played over my past 3 years at Binghamton! JL
Avi gottlieb
MaJoR: Business administration
MiNoR: management information systems (mis)
fUtURe PlaNs: mBa at Binghamton
nutti gross
MaJoR: urban planning
MiNoR: linguistics
fUtURe PlaNs: undecided
Brooke grossman
MaJoR: psychology
MiNoR: forensic Health
fUtURe PlaNs: masters of social Work at Hunter College
Chabad has always been there for me, welcoming me with open arms. I have been on G-board, attended more Shabbat dinners than I can count, been involved in committees for numerous events, and have built so many amazing relationships at Chabad in my time at Binghamton. Through my involvement in Chabad, I have been able to build my own Jewish path. Chabad has given me a home away from home, and I am so grateful. LL
Jewish life at Binghamton University has served as the pinnacle of my 4-year college experience. I came into Binghamton with the expectation of joining Jewish life, however I would never have imagined the number of connections and relationships I have made. I proudly served in leadership on every Jewish club/organization on campus, and these experiences allowed me to become a stronger proponent for Jewish Life on Binghamton’s campus.
I would like to thank the following organizations who rounded out my college experience and fulfilled my Jewish life involvement : The Alpha Epsilon Pi Fraternity, Chabad BU, Hillel at Binghamton, Binghamton University Zionist Organization, Tamid Group, and AIPAC. MB
When I initially began college at Binghamton University, I wanted to experience change. I was sick and
tired of my casual lifestyle back at home - which is why I did not want to settle for a local college. As I began my journey at BU, I started to lose track of my Jewish identity and what I had initially set my goals to be. However, Chabad allowed me to reconnect and meet like minded individuals who had strong ambitions and goals, while maintaining a strong Jewish identity. I met my best friends at Chabad. I also met amazing mentors at chabad who helped form the person I am today. Chabad at Binghamton has always been a safe space for me to connect with my community and I will never forget that. YJ
I chose to come to Binghamton because I knew there was a large Jewish community and when I came as a freshman I was amazed and blown away by the Jewish community here. After going to Jewish day school my whole life I thought I had seen what it was like to be a member of a big Jewish community but nothing has ever compared to Binghamton, coming to Chabad every friday night with 400 other students is something I never took for granted. I always looked forward to coming to Chabad and participating in the numerous challah bakes, GNOs, and being a member on Gboard. Chabad has always made Binghamton feel like home to me. JF
Throughout my years in Binghamton, my Jewish identity
Continued on Page 17
ChABAd iS…
welcoming. MB the place to be. AG a hot meal. JG the best! DG warm and caring. MI comforting. JF a family! HM home. HHO, JS a support system. No matter what is going on in your life, someone in the Chabad community will help you, support you, cheer you on, and most importantly feed you! DG often underappreciated. The food, events, and experiences that Chabad is able to provide for us is unbelievable. The amount of work and effort that goes on behind the
scenes is astounding and Chabad and its volunteers should be commended! JR
my Home Away From Home. MB, JR
a place where everyone is welcome and can feel they belong. An organization where everyone can reach their highest potential of becoming a leader in the community. The best place to connect with Judaism and friends, and a family that is there to support you throughout your entire college career and beyond. MK
matzo ball soup, GNO, a space that is always filled with people and opportunities. HHU
a safe place I can go to for personal growth, friendship, mentorship.... and amazing food :) YJ
a great place to connect with others. NG
the warmest hug when you need it the most! LL all the gazz. JT positively life-changing. HM
Where everybody knows your name
And they're always glad you came You wanna go where people know People are all the same You wanna go where everybody knows your name. ER community. LS always there. HHU love. Chabad is comfort; Chabad is a family. Chabad is a feeling I will never forget and will keep close to my heart. Chabad is and will always be my home away from home. RW
Dear Hannah, Mazal Tov on your graduation and best wishes for the happy, healthy, meaningful and successful future! With love and pride always Mommy and Shira
SeniorS spEakout a SPECiaL haKEShER gRadUation fEatURE
Amanda heisler
MaJoR: Business administration with concentration in marketing
fUtURe PlaNs: mBa at Binghamton
Michael khaldarov
MaJoR: Business administration (finance and mis)
fUtURe PlaNs: mBa at Binghamton
hannah hoff
MaJoR: integrative neuroscience
MiNoR: Judaic studies
fUtURe PlaNs: Working in clinical settings followed by degree in Clinical psychology
Jessica lalehzar
MaJoR: political science
fUtURe PlaNs: attending Cardozo law school
hannah hudes
MaJoR: philosophy, politics, and law & Judaic studies
fUtURe PlaNs: Corporate legal assistant in the financial institutions group at davis polk & Wardwell llp
Joshua levey
MaJoR: philosophy, politics, and law
MiNoR: Economics
fUtURe PlaNs: law school/Work
Malka iskowitz
MaJoR: psychology
MiNoR: Education and Judaic studies
fUtURe PlaNs: pursuing doctorate in psychology at rutgers university
MaJoR: Biological sciences & Judaic studies
fUtURe PlaNs: taking a gap year and then applying to grad school
yeshaya Jedian
MaJoR: nursing & integrative neuroscience
fUtURe PlaNs: nurse anesthetist
Alyssa levy
MaJoR: integrative neuroscience
fUtURe PlaNs: phd in psychological & Brain sciences from university of delaware
MY FAvorite / MoSt MeAningFul / MoSt iMPortAnt
working at Chabad Cafe. AW
all the Jewish holidays at Chabad are once in a lifetime experiences. Singing and dancing on Purim and Simchat Torah were some of the most fun nights. AG
my Junior year, I hosted an AEPi Friday night minyan in my Uclub apartment. It was the most energetic and meaningful Jewish experience I have had in my life, and I wish I could describe it, but you just had to be there to understand what it was. DG
working in the kitchen on Friday nights, helping to provide Shabbos meals for all those who wanted them. JG
leading Kabalat Shabbat Services with my Brothers of Alpha Epsilon Pi MB
making over 40lbs of flour into yummy challot for the Mega Challah Bake. SC
whether it was the cruise, BBQ, shabbat 1800. I left each one of these events with a feeling of purpose and deeper connection to my Jewish roots. One of the many meaningful Jewish experiences I have had was the Private Dinner for Guys held by Rivky Slonim. I will always look back to that speech and remember some major key points. YJ
creating a fun and lively shabbat culture by hosting weekly corn hole tournaments for the Jewish community with my friends. ER
attending the Shabbat as One at the end of my senior year!! HM
Kabbalat Shabbat. AS
Farbrengen with Rabbi Levi. JT
Friday night at Chabad each week; it’s always welcoming and a great way to catch up with good friends after a long week. I’m so grateful for every experience I had here and will miss it so much. NC
helping out with Shabbat 1800 every year. Although it was extremely stressful, the satisfaction of seeing it all come together was worth the stress. JR
going to Rabbi Levi's house Shabbos afternoons to farbreng. NG
my most meaningful Jewish experiences at Binghamton University was spearheading the Mega Challah Bake for three years. It was so inspiring to see hundreds of people come together to bake challah for Shabbos, and to see the result of countless hours of work. These memories from Chabad will stay with me forever, and I will deeply miss the Jewish community here at Binghamton. AL
any tisch that involved the song "Anovim, Anovim". HHU
Sinai Scholars. RW
the MoSt iMPortAnt leSSon i leArned in College iS ...
all work and no play makes college dull. DG
independence. It is so important to be self-sufficient and learn to figure things out on your own. JL
be involved: Join as many clubs and organizations as possible in order to become a more well rounded student. MB
the power of the youth is extraordinary. SC
life is all about growth. At times we fail, but we always pick up and become stronger. Whether it's school, friendships, relationships, spirituality - there is always room to grow. YJ
it's okay to be unapologetically yourself. ER to make the most out of every moment and to not be afraid to go out of your comfort zone or go to an event alone—you never know who you'll meet. JF
Work with your limitations instead of against them to make life the easiest for yourself as it can be. Say to yourself, "I can do this" rather than "I can't do this". HM
life ebbs and flows, and to roll with it. AS it is never too late to take initiative. JT
prioritize what makes you happy and don’t spread yourself too thin. NF
find balance in life as to where you can advance, but also to remember your identity. JL
surround yourself with great friends who care about you and only want the best for you! EL
don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. JR
no one cares if you don't. HHU
there is no such thing as too much coffee and it’s never too late to change your mind! Trust me, I switched majors at least 3 times! LS
yesterday is history. Tomorrow is a mystery. Today is a gift. Thats why we call it the present. Be in the moment. RW
Mazel Tov Justin Glickman on your graduation!
Dearest Justin,
We are so profoundly humbled by your accomplishments. You continue to prove to us every day that your choice to attend Binghamton was the right one.
Chabad at Binghamton University's place as the best Chabad out there is a direct result of the best people out there. We are grateful to Rabbi Aaron and Rebbetzin Rivky Slonim, Rabbi Levi and Rebbetzin Hadassa Slonim, Rabbi and Rebbetzin Chein, and Rabbi and Rebbetzin Ohana for taking care of you as if you were one of their own. It has comforted us to know that even when you're away, you were always home. They have even continued to train you in the kitchen and have never let you quit!! Mazel tov to all the graduates and especially to you, our Justin, on your next chapter. We know you will keep making us proud!
Love, Mommy and Daddy, Katie and Eli, Shoham, and William Grandma Taube and Grandpa Michael Grandma Dianne z"l and Grandpa Sol
SeniorS spEakout a SPECiaL haKEShER gRadUation fEatURE
eliana lubofsky
MaJoR: Human development
fUtURe PlaNs: Working at a preschool in manhattan
helena Miller
MaJoR: Economics
MiNoR: sociology
fUtURe PlaNs: internship through the masa israel program. graduate school / master's of public administration
college is some of the best years of your life: Make the most of it and have no regrets. MB
as long you put all your effort in, and you have truly tried your best, it is okay to not be successful. Learn why it didn't work and try to do better next time DG
be kind, have good manners, and say please and thank you. It is so important and can get you very far. MI
take responsibility for your actions and your future. ER
Dear Alyssa,
ifkin
MaJoR: Cinema // management
fUtURe PlaNs: 1 year mBa program at Binghamton university. to work for the king of magic, Walt disney. rip
Jonathan rubin
MaJoR: finance and management information systems future plans: mBa
Alexandra Schreiber
MaJoR: psychology
MiNoR: Hebrew studies
fUtURe PlaNs: occupational therapy grad school
listen to your gut-instincts when you have to make a decision because it will be right every time. HM
respect others to the utmost extent. JT
be compassionate and patient with others. NF
My mom always says "know who is who," which is her idiomatic way of saying "don't expect people to be something they're not." She basically believes that once someone consistently demonstrates a certain behavior, you shouldn't expect them
to be the complete opposite. She's all about having realistic expectations in order to avoid disappointment. (Did I mention she's from the former Soviet Union?) "Know who is who" seems like the antithesis to American cornerstones like "shoot for the moon," but it can still be very helpful because it's so introspective. It forces you to reflect on your interpersonal relationships, the people around you, and, in turn, yourself. HHU
be kind to everyone. YJ
Give to others without expecting anything in return. RW
We are so proud of you and all you have achieved. We are so excited for your future. Thank you Chabad of Binghamton for taking such good care of Alyssa.
Love Always, Mom, Dad, Zach, Paula, Lauren, Daniel, Charlie, Alex and Eden
the MoSt iMPortAnt leSSon i leArned FroM My PArentS iS...
Jack Sedaka
MaJoR: neuroscience
MiNoR: Judaic studies
fUtURe PlaNs: medical school
lilah Shrier
MaJoR: Ba psychology '20 mBa '21
fUtURe PlaNs: recruitment Consulting and pursuing ms in Clinical nutrition
Jonathan tuvy
MaJoR: Biomedical Engineering
fUtURe PlaNs: m s. in Biomedical Engineering and work in the pharmaceutical space
rachel weinfeld
MaJoR: psychology
MiNoR: Education and Health and Wellness
fUtURe PlaNs: Binghamton's Childhood and Early Childhood masters program
Arielle wenig
MaJoR: psychology, aBa track
MiNoR: Education, Judaic studies
fUtURe PlaNs: psyd in school and Clinical psychology
the MoSt SurPriSing/iMPortAnt leSSon i hAve leArned during the Current Covid 19 CriSiS
Something so simple like going for a walk can make your day special. MB
I really love hugs. SC
Don't wait until something is gone to start appreciating it. You won't necessarily always be able to be with your friends and those who support you. DG
Where there's a will, there's a way. If one really wants to do something, one can. Chabad was able to manage Friday night dinners throughout the entire COVID-19 crisis because of their will. Every week was a battle with local safety guidelines and restrictions, but they still made it happen while adhering to those standards. And even when it wasn't possible, they offered alternatives
such as take home options. When we really want something and we put our mind to it, we can achieve it. YJ
You need three things to keep you sane: Exercise, Friends/Family, and TikTok. ER
Focus on what you can control (yourself) and make your life the best it can be even if it is not ideal. HM
How much humanity and love there is in the world. AS
Connecting with those who are close to you can be much more important than branching out. JT
Even in the darkest of moments when things seem impossible, with the right mindset and people supporting you, amazing things can
come to fruition with some hard work and determination. This was evident from the amazing things that the leadership at Chabad was able to accomplish during what was such a difficult year. MK
You need to be happy being by yourself. NF
Sometimes a crisis brings a community together in new ways and is strengthened and secured through adversity. HHO
Pick up the phone and call someone you care about when you can no longer see them regularly (like if you're separated by a global pandemic, or... graduating college). HHU
SeniorS
spEakout a SPECiaL haKEShER gRadUation fEatURE
AdviCe to reMAining StudentS regArding JewiSh liFe
Get involved in Leadership: If you want to make a serious impact on Jewish Life on Binghamton's campus, Leadership is the best outlet to make a difference. MB
Come to as many Shabbat meals as possible. The time you get to spend with your friends while Chabad feeds you great food is irreplaceable. Come to the events you want to come to, whether that’s BNO, deli, Panoply or Supper and study. Chabad has events that suit everybody. AG
There are so many aspects of Jewish life on campus, so get involved in the way that connects to you. It could be planning social programs, grabbing coffee with freshmen, going to minyan, setting up a chevrutah, helping out in the kitchen or applying for a leadership position. Find the ways that you connect to your Judaism and strengthen them because there is so much opportunity in front of you. SC
I remember when I was starting Binghamton, the best piece of advice I got was to not be afraid to be public about my Jewish identity. Binghamton is a warm, inviting, and understanding place where you can be proud to be a Jew. Also, come to as many events at Chabad as you possibly can - it's the best place to meet the people who will become your lifelong friends. JG
Jewish life here at Binghamton means finding a community. You can make friends on campus, in class, but the friends you make here will be your community for a lifetime. DG
Go. Just getting your foot in the door will leave room for growth.
Attend a friday-night dinner. Join a supper and study. Attend any program. Attending events helped me meet new people with similar values to me, which allowed me to stay close to my Jewish roots. YJ
The Jewish life at Binghamton is what made my whole college experience. The Jewish leaders and mentors, specifically at Chabad, are always there for you when you need them. There are so many ways to get involved and it is important to take as many opportunities as you can. Get involved and build as many relationships as you can during your short time here. You may not remember what you learned in your freshman intro class, but you will for sure remember all the events and programs you participated in and helped plan and run, and the people you met by doing so. MI
Don’t be embarrassed to do something, or go somewhere just because no one else is doing the same. AW
Don't take how accessible it is here for granted. And take advantage. ER
Go to every event you can and take advantage of how supportive the Chabad is here. JF
Don't be afraid to join the Jewish community and to participate in it! For years, I was afraid to join the Jewish community because I believed that if I did not know the Jewish girls of my larger community since I was 5, that I would never fit in.. If you believe that there is not a place for you in the Jewish community, you're wrong. There is a place for EVERYONE in the Jewish community because
Jewish people don't want to exclude you from their friend groups; rather, they want to INCLUDE you because they love you. HM
Get involved in whatever way is comfortable for you and makes you feel proud. Even if your friends don't join you, do what makes you happy in terms of your Jewish involvement, and you'll end up finding people who value that as well. Everyone at Binghamton benefits from the Jewish life here, and I recommend going to lots of events. Giving back is even more important and more fulfilling because it is what allows students to continue to enjoy the beautiful Jewish life that Binghamton has. You are the future, I know you'll make everyone proud! AS
One’s Jewish identity is important, and Chabad is a very important tool in developing that identity. Do not be scared to show up, get involved, and ask questions. The sooner you take that first step, the more you can accomplish during your time here. JT
It’s important to be involved with Jewish life it will allow you to make new friends and always feel included. NF
Cherish every moment and if you’re questioning whether to go to an event, just do it. BG
My advice would be to get as involved as you can. Whether that is volunteering once a month or joining the Chabad G-board being an active member of the community will help strengthen your connection to the community as well as your own Jewish journey. HHO
If I were a freshman all over again, I would say that it is vital to do more at Chabad than just Friday evening services, Saturday morning services, and holiday services. Get involved in the activities, make friends, collect their numbers, and hang out with them outside of Chabad. Do not relegate them to one building, otherwise you will feel lonely on
Continued from Page 10 has developed into something completely different than it was when I arrived here. No matter who I was learning with, I always felt like my questions were welcome, and this is very important - the fear that your questions are discouraged or laughable can negatively affect your development. I am happy that I was able to meet the shluchim here at Chabad precisely because of this - they let me ask the small and silly questions I would be embarrassed to otherwise, which let me grow more than I thought possible. JT
I am so lucky to have made so many Jewish friends who will remain in my life for many years to come. Going to Chabad with my best friends and being able to socialize and meet new people was one of the nicest parts of the community at Binghamton. I really appreciate all of the people who accepted me in when I was a transfer. I’m so thankful for all my memories and experiences! BG
Being a part of the Chabad at Binghamton community has been
campus, or off of it. Never burn bridges. And overall: have fun! JL
Remember that no matter where life takes you, or how distant you may be feeling from Judaism, you can always feel welcome at Chabad. Take advantage of the amazing Binghamton community and try new things and events! LS
one of the most amazing parts of my college experience. I am so grateful for all of the amazing people I have met and the incredible memories I have made at Chabad. Having a place to call home for the past three years has been such a blessing, and I will miss it so much! EL
Coming to campus as a Spring Admit in January of 2018, I was nervous that students would have their friend groups already set and that I wouldn’t find my place at Binghamton. I had never gone to sleepaway camp before so being away for so long was a scary thought to me. Throughout my first semester at Binghamton, I kept thinking to myself “how am I going to make college my home away from home?” That summer, I told myself, Binghamton was just a school and that my home was back in New City. In the Fall of 2018, that whole thought changed when I was introduced to Chabad at their annual new student Jewau event. At that event, I met Shiraz Otani, who was the Major Programs Coordinator of Chabad’s E-board. I told her I wanted to get
Don't be afraid to ask for what you want in life: If you want to get involved, ask to get involved. If you want something to change, speak up. If you want to create something, make it happen!Be the you, you want to be, make the change you want to see! You are in charge of your future and anything is possible when you put youar mind to it! RW
involved with Binghamton’s Jewish community where she introduced me to Sigma, a Jewish interest sorority on campus. Little did I know, Shiraz would end up being my big in the sorority and that Rivky Slonim, Chabad’s Associate Director was Sigmas local chapter advisor! Within a blink of an eye, I was immersed into the Chabad community and Jewish life on campus. Every week there was something new and exciting at Chabad. I went to sisterhood Shabbat dinners, Chabad’s Mega Challah Bake, Shabbat 1800, GNOs, joined JGC with Rabbi Levi and took Sinai Scholars, which was the best decision I have ever made. Through Sinai Scholars, I was able to gain new perspectives on Judaism far beyond belief. Sinai Scholars made such an impact on me that I decided to become an intern. Even through Covid, where most of my organizations gave up in person events, Chabad continued to host Covid safe Shabbat dinners and events which I looked forward to every week. RW
AluMnisPotlight
sHmuElBuShwiCk '10
Marching to his own Drumbeat
By Alan Zeitlin ‘00
“Nice Jewish boys don’t serve in the military.”
That’s a remark Captain Shmuel Bushwick has heard many times and works to debunk. The officer in the U.S. Army's Judge Advocate General’s Corps graduated from Binghamton University in 2010 with a degree in political science and minors in history and global studies. Bushwick said he is proud to be from Scranton, Pennsylvania, the birthplace of President Joe Biden, and he has wanted to be in the military since he was a child.
“I felt duty bound to follow in the footsteps of the leaders I so respected and prove that Judaism and service in the United States military are complimentary... [b]ecause we have an entirely volunteer force, everyone who is here wants to be here…everyone decided to set their own needs aside and dedicate themselves to the country.”
He said that idea creates a strong bond with other Service Members and is highlighted at present when he is separated from friends and loved ones for about two years due to COVID-19 restrictions and a deployment. "The best part about being in the Army is actually analogous to the best part about being an observant Jew—the sense of community," asserted Shmuel.
Bushwick said Chabad of Binghamton was a "home away from home" and that his time at Chabad was
defined by the people there as well as the way the organization helped him grow as a leader. “The entire Chabad team puts their hearts and souls into making the Chabad House a living beating heart,” he said. Chabad became an “inseparable” part of him. Bushwick, who first entered Binghamton University as a shy teenager, credits time addressing crowds at Chabad for helping to hone his public speaking skills. He said he studied, helped in the kitchen, and built enduring relationships at Chabad.
Bushwick, who cited “A Few Good Men” with Tom Cruise as one of his favorite films related to the military, said the best advice he ever got was “saw the wood that’s in front of you” which is a reminder “to focus on the task at hand.” He also said there are misconceptions that Soldiers are brutish individuals who mainly work out and shoot things. He explained that the Army encourages people to build on their inherent abilities to execute the many different parts of the Army’s mission and that he has worked with highly intelligent Soldiers with advanced degrees.
When asked about retaining his religious observance while in the Army, Shmuel reports that the military does its best to accommodate Kashrut and other observances. He shared a poignant moment when he saw an enlisted Soldier don a yarmulke after receiving his initial, mandatory haircut. He was, unfortunately, unable to interact with the Soldier. “There we were, two observant Jews on an immense Army base in southern Georgia actively setting aside our own wants and needs to serve this great nation,” he said. “Because I couldn’t speak to him, I have no idea who that Soldier was and no clue where he is now. I’m hopeful that he is having as positive an experience in the military as I am.”
*The views expressed in this article are those of the interviewee and do not reflect endorsement by the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or the Department of the Army.
Alan Zeitlin teaches English and Journalism at a Brooklyn public high school. As a freelance writer for the past 11 years, his articles have appeared in The Jewish Week, The Journal News and other publications.
Shmuel Bushwick (l) pictured on base.
ALUMNI NEWS
MAzel tovS
‘91 Marc and Heather Benjamin announce the marriage of their daughter, Gabrielle, to Ari Solomon; a June 2021 wedding is planned.
‘95 Jen Wolpert and Josh Udler celebrated the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Jonah, on Shabbat Parashat Terumah ( Zachor), February 20-21, 2021.
‘96 Rachel Weintraub and Scott Reiter announce the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter, Dalia, on May 31, 2021.
Josh and Jen (Wolpert) Udler announce the Bar Mitzvah of their son. See ’95 for details.
'97 Gadi and Shira Goldress announce the bar mitzvah of their son, Eitan, on Shabbat Parashat Korach, June 12, 2021.
‘01 Tzipah and Shaul Wertheimer announce the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Sruli, on May 20, 2021.
‘03 Carly (Becher) and Sean Haber announce the birth of their son, Avraham Yosef, on Nov. 20, 2020. He was welcomed home by big siblings, Yitzy, Huda and Yoni.
‘07 Michele Gonen and Jacob Harel announce the birth of their son, Elan Chanan, on June 18, 2020.
‘09 Nicky and Nomi Kolios announce the birth of their son, Adin Mordechai, on January 29, 2021.
‘10 Ariel and Lauren Blum are making Aliya in June 2021.
‘13 Talya Keschner and Ziv Karmi announce the birth of their son, Noam David, on March 13, 2021.
Rachel Engle announces her engagement to Ben Wald; a Fall 2021 wedding is planned. Rachel is an attorney in private practice; Ben is a physical security specialist. They will make their home in Arlington, VA.
‘14 Michal Goldstein is making Aliya in June 2021.
Rebecca Bandler announces her engagement to Jonathan schehr; a December 2021 wedding is planned. Rebecca is a nurse practitioner in the ER at UPenn; Jonathan is an outpatient physical therapist specializing in orthopedics. They will make their home near Center City, Philadelphia.
Michael Snow announces his engagement to Elena Weissmann; an August 15, 2021 wedding is planned. Michael is a student at Harvard Law School. Elena is the Mid-Atlantic Director for Vote Solar, a policy advocacy organization. They will make their home in Cambridge, MA.
‘15 Shachar and Alex Avraham announce the birth of their son, Matan Reuven, on March 14, 2021.
Aviva (Korbman) and Jeff Borger announce the birth of their daughter, Lily Rose, Ziva Sarah, on April 21, 2021.
Michelle Asarch announces her engagement to Charles Herzek; a July 2022 wedding is planned. Michelle teaches High school art and Charles teaches special education sciences. They will make their home in NYC.
‘16 Alex (Eagle) and Shachar Avraham announce the birth of their son. See ‘15 for details.
Heather Moskowitz announces her engagement to Solomon Braun; a May 23, 2021 wedding is planned. Heather is an ABA instructor at the Manhattan Children Center. Solomon is an attorney at Allen and Overy. They will make their home on the Upper East Side.
Kathy Benhamou announces her engagement to Ben Shekhtman; a Summer 2022 wedding is planned. Kathy is completing her PhD in Clinical Psychology at Case Western Reserve University; Ben is a resident physician in physical medicine and rehabilitation at the University of Toledo. They will make their home in Cleveland, Ohio. David Choueka announces his engagement to Alana Epstein; a February 2022 wedding is planned. David will begin his OBGYN residency at Lenox Hill Hospital; Alana is a product manager and digital strategist for Ernst and Young.
Zoe Liebmann announces her engagement to Gui Citovsky; a November 24, 2021 wedding is planned. They will make their home in NYC.
‘17 Ben Rosenwein announces his engagement to Judy Kepce; a November 2021 wedding is planned. Ben is an attorney with Mckinley Onua & Associates; Judy works in data analytics at Veeva Systems. They will make their home in NYC.
Meir Berkman announces his engagement to Rachel Mirsky; an August 29, 2021 wedding is planned. Meir is a healthcare partnership lead with Butterfly Network; Rachel is an emergency medicine resident at Jacoby- Montefiore hospital. They will make their home in Riverdale, NY.
Noam Hiltzik announces his engagement to Chana Fuld; a 2021 wedding is planned. Noam is a Data Scientist; Chana is a special educator; they will make their home in Queens, NY.
‘19 Ariela Katz announces her engagement to Moshe Maryles; a November 23, 2021 wedding is planned. Ariela is a teacher at the Ideal School in NYC and will be pursuing a Masters in special education at Hunter College; Moshe is a Nursing Home staffer at Regional Care Network. They will make their home on the Upper West Side.
‘20 Rebecca Nussbaum announces her engagement to Jared Caplan; an August 15, 2021 wedding is planned. Rebecca is a Risk Consultant for Deloitte; Jared is a Strategy Consultant at Accordion Partners. They will make their home in the Tri-state area.
Chabad mourns the passing of...
Ira Marvin (Yitzchok Moshe ben Michoel) Sokol, on March 3, 2021 father of Howard Sokol BA ’90, MBA ’93.
Soraya Kalatizadeh, on April 16, 2021, mother of Ronnie Kalatizadeh ‘11.
Steven Geiger (Shmuel Chaim ben Meyer Hirsch HaLevi), on January 12, 2021, father of Miriam Geiger ’15.
Adam Scott Tedesco, on April 18, 2021, father of Emily Tedesco ‘18.
May the families be comforted among the mourners of Zion and Jerusalem.
Emma Hakimian announces her engagement to Yoel Gorjian; a July 22, 2021 wedding is planned. Emma is pursuing a Masters at Hunter College; Yoel works in Real Estate in NYC. for up to date Chabad alumni news, visit: www.facebook.com/ChabadBuAlumni
to welcome the crowds back for the Spring Semester: girl S
out Where all the girls go for fun female bonding and amazing eats
Megillah reading took place in scores of indoor and outdoor locations on campus and off including for those in quarantine and isolation.
binghamton paused for a week but Purim came anyway, and at binghamton it's always huge. the Purim Seudah catered by izzy's was "to go" and the Purim Carnival featuring rapper nissim Black (appearing on screen) was "on wheels" but we all had a blast! See picture on page 28.
The Lag B'omer Bonfire was moved inside due to torrential downpour but we still had smores!
Megillah and Martinis Downtown
Post Pesach Pasta Palooza
no photograph better captures Chabad's focus on serving the needs of each and every individual in our community despite the difficulties brought on by the Pandemic. Rabbi Zalman Chein reads the megillah outside of the dorms where students are in quarantine and isolation.
Tefillin Sunday
Cooking with Hadasa! Challah Bake
PLEASE NoTE: where students are pictured in close proximity to each other they are room/suite/housemates.
Tuesday night Deli and Torah
Panoply
Supper and Study
Jewish learning institute
Almost one hundred participants— including alumni, parents (past and present) and local community members—enjoyed the Winter course titled, Journey of the Soul. This Can Happen, an eye opening course on the concept of Moshiach, is currently being taught in Binghamton and around the world.
for a full gallery of pictures of these events and others please
A gentleman's dinner with presentation on Mikvah by rivky
ladies night the girls have fun before Shabbat begins
Remembering Idan Greenstein, obm Shabbat, May 7-8, was dedicated to remembering our beloved Idan Greenstein '20. Moving tributes were offered by idan's parents, friends and Chabad staff.
A plaque marking the greenstein family's gift to Chabad in memory of Idan, was unveiled by parents, Valerie and Steven and brother Gilad '18 , Ma '19 and sister in law, Brianna '19 Greenstein.
PLEASE NoTE: where students are pictured in close proximity to each other they are room/suite/housemates.
SHABBAT AS oNE: Swept up in the Whirlwind
Ariel C. Wajnrajch
They say there’s strength in numbers and there is, but on Friday, April 30 we found strength in something transcendent - our unity. After a year in pandemic mode, our community was itching to come together and feel what we felt in years prior when we came together for Shabbat 1000, then Shabbat 1500, then Shabbat 1800.
But this year, it had to be a safe, COVID-friendly, SAapproved, governor’s office-approved, smaller event. Instead of welcoming upwards of 2000 students into the Events Center on campus, we welcomed a few hundred students each into both the Chabad Center right off campus, and the parking garage of the Double Tree Hotel in Downtown Binghamton. The original plan was to house the on-campus community in a tent in the parking lot of Temple Israel (located just a few minutes away from Chabad) so that this could be an outdoor event. But G-d had other plans for us. We literally got swept away by unusually forceful gales of wind so we pivoted and set everything up just hours before the event at Chabad.
It was simply magical. Singing and dancing, all over the place; mitzvot fulfilled in every room of the building. I have never seen so many women light candles together. Because we had to spread out to be safe from COVID, we had students creating meaningful Shabbat memories all over Chabad, not just in the Great Room, not just in the shul, but in the hallway upstairs, in the lobby, in the lower level game room and cafeteria and of course, downtown in a parking garage.
The YStuds, a Jewish a capella group
from NY were awesome. Towards the end of the night, they walked from table to table taking song requests and serenaded individual groups. I couldn’t help but dance along to their music while cleaning up after serving at the meal. The experience was just so spiritual I wish every weekend could be like that.
A friend of mine told our table that this was her first Shabbat experience. I get too used to this being a normal occurrence and forget what we’re doing for Jewish students that didn’t grow up with religious observance.
Even though it wasn’t thousands of people in the Event Center, there was something larger than life about it. I am once again in awe of my community and the leaders with whom I’m privileged to work, and I am truly so proud to represent Chabad of Binghamton each day. If there’s one thing to take away from this event, it’s that there will always be room for any Jew at Chabad of Binghamton’s table, even if the “table” is really more like tens of tables six feet apart from one another. And the show WILL go on!
Ariele C. Waijnrach’22, MBA ’23 serves as teasurer on the Chabad Executive board.
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