Shalom KJ - Summer Issue

Senseless Hatred Starts at Home

By Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz

I didn’t talk to my roommate for an entire year.

I was in 11th grade, at a yeshiva where the students lived in dormitories on campus. Early in the school year, Sruli and I got into a fight. We were taking turns on a handheld electronic football game we had borrowed from a friend and, too quickly, the turntaking devolved into grabbing and shoving. We returned to our room, too angry to talk.

By the next day, this silence took on a momentum of its own, and continued on for months. After a while, it was difficult to know if we weren’t talking to each other because we were angry at each other, or if we were angry at each other because we weren’t speaking.

Like most grudges, this conflict took a lot of energy to maintain. In hallways and in classrooms, we were constantly pivoting to avoid looking at each other. We refused to socialize in the same group, and our mutual friends needed to be careful about which one of us they included in which activity. The way we navigated as roommates in a very small two-person room could be the subject of a sitcom. In a space no larger than 100 square feet, we maintained the silent treatment; we communicated through grunting and hand motions.

When we finally patched things up before summer vacation, I was left feeling foolish about letting a small grudge take over my entire life.

Contemporary discussions on hatred focus on sociological and economic factors. People hate because they are divided by race, religion and politics. These insights are important, but have an unfortunate side effect; we begin to see hatred as the province of fanatics and fools. But hatred is not an exotic illness that afflicts those who are morally deficient. Everybody hates; even a shy, idealistic 11th grader can be drawn into a year long battle of exceptional intensity. While righteously fighting the hatred of the wicked, we remain blind to the powerful role hatred plays in our own lives.

Tisha B’Av, which commemorates the destruction of the Temple, is a time to contemplate the power of senseless hatred. The fall of the second Commonwealth was as much a result of internecine Jewish infighting as it was of Roman military strength.

The simplest interpretation of this history is that political factionalism leads to communal division. However, the Talmud (Gittin 55b) takes a different perspective. It tells the story of “Kamtza and Bar Kamtza,” a dinner party that goes terribly wrong. The host is a good friend of Kamtza’s, but the invitation is mistakenly delivered to the host’s enemy, Bar Kamtza. He then shows up at the banquet, filled with the who’s who of Jerusalem. The host demands Bar Kamtza leave immediately; hoping to avoid embarrassment, Bar Kamtza offers to pay the host for the entire banquet, as long as he can stay. The host refuses to bend and publicly humiliates Bar Kamtza. In

his fury, Bar Kamtza decides to take revenge against the banquet guests and offers a false accusation against the Jews of Jerusalem to the Roman government. The Talmud says that Bar Kamtza’s accusation ultimately caused the destruction of Jerusalem.

In this remarkable Talmudic text, the political is upstaged by the personal. The Talmud ignores sectarian infighting, and instead focuses on an everyday conflict. Like the proverbial butterfly, one personal battle can stir up a hurricane of destruction. Even though Bar Kamtza had every reason to be aggrieved, he responded to hatred with more hatred. The lesson is that if people feel justified in hating others, no matter how righteous the cause, they can contribute to destroying society as well.

Op-eds about hate often come with illustrations about fanatics and fools that reinforce the moral superiority of the writer. The hatreds that rabbis preach about are usually the ones they are at least guilty of. But hatred is a natural passion, common to all human beings; the idea that hatred is the result of a personality defect is a dangerous myth. There is plenty of idealistic, self righteous hatred as well.

We live at a time of intense polarization. Snark and spite have replaced civil debate in the news and on social media, and from there it has migrated to our Passover Seders and Shabbat tables. This fury is inescapable; I feel drawn into it every time I go online.

Undoubtedly there are “big picture” reasons for our polarization, but if we stopped there, we would fail in our analysis. We need to look in the mirror, and realize that there’s a Bar Kamtza inside every one of us. And until we all take responsibility, polarization will remain.

Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz

Blessings for Good

By Rabbi Roy Feldman

The story of Bil’am and his curses is perhaps the strangest in the Torah.

King Balak of the Moabites procured the services of the great gentile prophet Bil’am to curse the Israelites. Bil’am was a good prophet; our sages compared his prophecy with that of Moshe. But each time he attempted to curse the Israelites, God prevented him from doing so by changing the words of his curses into words of blessing. Why was this act by God necessary? What power could the curses of this prophet possibly contain that God found it imperative to interfere and change them into blessings? After all, are all blessings and curses not really in the hands of God? Why did God not merely ignore these curses?

In 1964, psychologist Robert Rosenthal performed an experiment at an elementary school to see what would happen if teachers were told that certain students in their class were destined to succeed. He had all the students take a test and told the teachers that this very special test from Harvard had the very special ability to predict which children were about to be very special, that is, which ones were about to experience a dramatic growth in their IQ. After the children took the test, he chose several children from each class totally at random. There was nothing at

all to distinguish these students from the others, but he told their teachers that the test predicted that those children were on the verge of an intense intellectual bloom.

As he followed the children over the next two years, Rosenthal discovered that the teachers’ expectations of these students really did affect the students. He wrote, “If teachers had been led to expect greater gains in IQ, then increasingly, those kids gained more IQ.”

Why? Rosenthal found that expectations affect teachers’ moment-to-moment interactions with the children they teach in a thousand almost invisible ways. Teachers give the students that they expect to succeed more time to answer questions, more specific feedback, and more approval: they consistently touch, nod and smile at those children more. The conclusion is clear: the way others treat us and regard us has a real effect on our own behavior.

Mitzvot in general and brakhot specifically are a means through which we integrate the divine into our everyday existence. Maimonides wrote in his Guide of the Perplexed that we as human beings cannot truly fathom God or Godliness. The only way we can even come close is if God creates ways for us to encounter Him on our level. Mitzvot are the means by which we fuse God’s eternal, infinite world with our temporal, finite one. Everyone eats, drinks, uses the restroom, and washes their hands. But as Jews, we live and see God in our daily lives. We have guidelines about what we can eat and we may or may not do; we have berakhot in order to make certain that we see God’s hand in our lives. These berakhot are meant to have some sort of influence on us and our cognizance of the Almighty.

By the same token, when someone offers a prayer or berakha for another person, it is not meant as a magical incantation but as a part of this very system. When we pray for the ill – it is not because God would not care for them if we omitted the prayer. God cares for the ill whether or not we offer a Misheberakh. The Misheberakh is for us to stop and think about our loved ones who need refuah (healing), it reminds us to think about them and to call or visit them.

When we say at a bris, “May this boy grow to a life of Torah, Chupah, and ma’asim tovim,” there is no guarantee that such will be the case. Even if a prophet were to say it, there would be no guarantee. And of course God doesn’t need our berakha God wants the best for the child even if you don’t say that phrase. The berakha is for us. It is meant as a charge - first to his parents, then to his educators, and ultimately to him to live such a life. We invoke God in order to acknowledge His presence and importance in our lives and to ask for His help, but what we do is ultimately in our hands. By creating and living in an environment that values those things – it sets the expectation up in a certain way: we are a people that values Torah and good deeds.

That is why it was so important for God to change Bil’am’s words. His words had no mystical power. But we all understand the power of suggestion by such a famous and powerful prophet – it is akin to the test result in Rosenthal’s experiment. If such an important world-renowned figure were to suggest to the Israelites enough times that they are sinners, they would believe it and they would become it. Don Isaac Abarbanel wrote in his commentary that the curses uttered by such a famous prophet would cause surrounding nations to view us as weak and vulnerable; they would thus be more likely to attack. But God wanted for the Israelites to hear words of encouragement and not be disparaged; He wanted to set them up for success.

We all have goals, hopes, wishes, beginnings, and ideas for the future. Let us remember to articulate those as prayers and as berakhot. To thank God for His help but to also remind us what we are doing and to inspire us to do more. God will do His part, and we must do ours.

Rabbi Roy Feldman

Keter Torah Awardees

Revered – and, I may add, beloved – rabbis, family, and friends, Shabbat Shalom and Chag Sameach. I am truly honored and touched to be standing here today and sharing this award with Liora. Liora, you and I never even met before today, but from everything I’ve heard, I think you and I could become fast friends. We share a love for davening and for meaningful communal engagement, which gives us a lot in common. Thank you for all you have done and continue to do for KJ.

When Bob and I married almost 38 years ago, our decision to move to this community and join KJ was a natural one. My uncle Martin Rochlin, A”H, and - לדבת הנתיא תואירבב םיבוט םייחל - my beloved aunt Evelyn, had been members of KJ for 20 years. From the time I was 10 years old, spending occasional Shabbatot with my aunt and uncle and celebrating the birth and Brit Milah of their sons, Joshua and Kenny, and many other smachot, I became acquainted with their friends Haskel and Audrey Lookstein and the synagogue they attended. I remember sitting at the Rochlins’ lunch table one Shabbat when Rabbi Lookstein and Audrey were there. Rabbi Lookstein asked me whether I knew any zmirot. I proceeded to sing one - I believe it was לארשיל הז םוי. It was a tune he wasn’t familiar with, and he asked me to teach it to him! The fact that I retain that memory is an indication of the impression Rabbi Lookstein made on me as a young girl.

Fast forward about 20 years, when we moved into this community. Thanks to Martin and Evelyn’s renowned hospitality, and to Kenny's and Josh’s warmth and popularity, it didn’t take long for us to feel completely at home in KJ. Plus, having been a student in Rabbi Lookstein’s Tehillim class at the Teacher’s Institute of Stern College, I was excited at the prospect of continuing to learn from him.

In 1990, Bob and I joined KJ and enrolled our daughter in Nursery A at Ramaz. As the years went by, with both Amanda and Jason attending Ramaz and Bob and I davening at KJ, we came to appreciate on a deeper level the truly outstanding features of this synagogue and this community. Decorum and timely arrival at services were valued. Precision in Torah reading and conducting the services was a priority. High standards were the norm. At the same time, services were inspiring, and congregants with different levels of observance were welcomed and respected. A wide variety of Torah classes was being offered, and we enjoyed the many shiurim we attended. KJ was a very comfortable home for us.

The beautiful KJ Bulletin and Rabbi Steinmetz’s moving remarks describe my years of service to the shul and the community in various capacities. I’d like to connect the motivation for communal activism and volunteerism to a lesson that I believe Megillat Rut is trying to teach. The idea I will share is derived both from

presentation by Surie Sugarman

Dr. Yael Zeigler’s magnificent book and from a recent conversation I had with my dear friend, fellow student and role model, Tova Bulow.

I think we can all agree that Chapter 3 of the book is central, even “climactic,” to use Dr. Zeigler’s word. Chapter 3 tells of Ruth’s nocturnal visit to Boaz at the threshing floor, where, dressed and perfumed, she lies down at his feet. I am not going to delve into the question of precisely what transpired there. Was there a sexual encounter? Many commentaries address the nature of that meeting; suffice it to say that Ruth and Boaz were not practicing social distancing. The question that intrigues Dr. Ziegler is, what motivated Boaz to guarantee Ruth’s impending redemption? Was it love or attraction or passion? Was he smitten from the moment he encountered her gleaning in his fields, in Chapter 2? Was she in love with him? If so, then we must wait until Chapter 4, when the nearest of kin potential redeemer takes himself out of the running, for the two to be united.

But what if that was not the case? What if Ruth was honorably seeking both recognition and the opportunity to build a future for herself and for her mother-inlaw, Naomi, now that her husband, Machlon, had died? In this scenario, regardless of whether they were attracted to each other, Boaz’s primary motivation was to effectuate Ruth and Naomi’s redemption; to find a goel, a redeemer, who would both buy Naomi’s field and marry Ruth, thereby restoring Naomi’s property to her and reviving the name of the deceased by giving progeny to Naomi and Ruth. This is the reading Dr. Ziegler favors. In her view, the redeemer didn’t have to be Boaz for Boaz to be our hero. The hero is not so much who marries Ruth as it is who effectuates the redemption. Perhaps, when Boaz says,

he really is saying, if the closer relative redeems you, it’s totally fine with me, but if not, I’ll do it.

How does this relate to the reason I’m here addressing you today? I think that effective community service comes from a combination of a feeling of responsibility, coupled with a passion for - or attraction to - engaging in certain kinds of activities. For me, serving as an officer of the shul, on the rabbinic and cantorial search committees, as a member of the Chevra Kadisha, and a participant in classes and in the Women’s Tefillah group, have enabled me to shape the shul’s future

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in a positive way and live up to the ideals and values of our faith, while at the same time deriving satisfaction from contributing that is rewarding and energizing.

I thank our rabbis, our officers, our trustees, and everyone else who recruited me and offered me so many opportunities to serve our community. Thank you for bestowing this honor on me today. And thank you for creating an opportunity for all my beloved children and grandchildren to spend Yom tov with me! Dana and Marc, Ali and Dan, Amanda and Jon, Jason, and Ariel: you and your children are the loves of my life. Thank you for being here today. To Bob, my friend, my partner, my helper – thank you for the love, support, understanding and encouragement you’ve given me for the last 38 years. And, as a former National Chair of the Anti-Defamation League and a past President of the Conference of Presidents of Major Jewish Organizations, thank you for modeling for me what effective communal leadership is all about. I love you.

Chag Sameach and Shabbat Shalom!

by Liora Schulman

Thank you, Rabbi Steinmetz, for your kind introduction and your support and guidance over the years.

Mazal Tov, Surie. I am honored to be recognized with you today and am inspired by all that you have done for KJ.

I am humbled to stand in front of you all today and receive this award among the many accomplished women that have received it in the past.

The importance of being involved in a Jewish community was instilled in me from a young age. As a child my father served as the president of the Marais Road Synagogue in Cape Town, South Africa. My fondest childhood memories all surround Shul – whether it was sitting next to my mother listing to the Chazan and choir recite the Shabbat prayers, chesed projects in which we sold crafts to raise money, community celebrations of Simchat Torah where we danced in the streets or just enjoying a cup of tea and a sweet kichel with chopped herring at our weekly shul kiddush. Shul has always been a part of my life. When I was eight years old my family immigrated to the United States and my parents joined the Boca Raton Synagogue where they both were leaders in the shul’s Chevra Kadisha. My parents always set an example of going to shul and being active participants; my father would often be one of the first people in Shul and recite the pseukeh d’zimra. These values are what drove me to get involved when my husband, Ben, and I joined KJ.

We became a family here at KJ six and a half years ago when Ben and I welcomed our son Charlie and celebrated his Shabbat Chol HaMoed Sukkot brit in the Kesher minyan. We have since then named and celebrated a Simchat Bat for both of our daughters, Sophie and Nellie, here at KJ.

Over the course of my life, the greatest fulfillment has come from relationships I have built - and specifically here at KJ I have been inspired to get involved as a result of seeing what others have done for the community. One of the first ways that I became involved here was by helping to plan the Kesher Challah Bake. During the planning

meeting I brought up to the committee that one of my closest friends was struggling with infertility and I shared that she felt isolated and like she was the only one suffering. We then decided to make the challah bake an infertility awareness event where woman from our community could share their infertility stories in the hope that it would allow others who were struggling to feel less alone have someone to go to if they wanted to talk. I am thankful to Nicole Agus and Rachel Kraus for their guidance at that first Challah Bake, and I am thankful that the current Kesher Presidium have continued this event. Now, six years later, the Challah Bake is a mainstay on the Kesher calendar and, to me, one of the most impactful events.

In 2019 when I was asked to serve as one of the Kesher Presidium, I thought that would just entail planning social events, but it turned out to be so much more. Through my role as co-president, I was able to have many wonderful interactions with the KJ rabbinical team as well as work with our amazing administrative staff all the while learning about the rich history of KJ. What surprised me the most was the number of people that I would meet and interact with, and as I look around the room today, I see so many people who welcomed me and helped me along the way. KJ is truly a special place where although it may be large in terms of the numbers of member families, it feels like a small congregation where everyone knows your name.

In this morning’s reading of Megillat Ruth we read about Ruth, a widow of Moabite origin who insists on staying with her widowed, Israelite mother-in-law Naomi, declaring “Wherever you go, I will go... your people shall be my people, and your God my God” (1:16). The story of Ruth and Naomi depicts a young woman who willingly and with love stays with an older woman and helps her return to her home, AND an older woman who willingly and with love guides the younger towards a future that will be blessed with security and warmth. No great theater, no powerful revelation, just the day-to-day living of two people helping each other out. The story of Ruth and Naomi resonates so deeply with me because it depicts the simplicity of being there for someone else. That is what KJ is all about - being there for others.

I feel fortunate to have participated in the Covid vaccine appointment program which Leah Modlin so graciously ran. As part of the program, shul volunteers worked with

seniors to secure them vaccine appointments at a critical time when the vaccines were first rolling out and appointments were hard to get if you were not computer savvy. This program parallels the story of Ruth and Naomi where we volunteered with love and were able to help fellow community members. For me, what I got in return was so much more ––it not only gave me a break from being a working mom with children on Zoom school, but most importantly it allowed me to bond with older people in the community and learn from them. I still keep in contact with many of the people I helped.

KJ has given my family and me a home, and we have gotten so much more from this community than we can ever give backand for that I am thankful to all of you. I want to thank my mother, Sheryl, and my late father, Charles, for instilling the importance of chesed and community involvement in my brother Doron and me. I want to thank my mother-in-law, Charlene, and my father-in-law, Myron, for their continuous support; their commitment to chesed continues to inspire me. I want to thank my husband, Ben, for being my biggest cheerleader and pushing me to follow my dreams.

Finally, I would like to thank my children Charlie, Sophie, and Nellie. You are the lights of my life and I hope that from your home and your congregational home you learn about the importance of Judaism, Israel, Torah and being a good person.

Thank you all for being here today and Chag Sameach!

WEDNESDAY, JULY 26

THURSDAY, JULY 27

kjyd

Dear Morah Chevy,

Normally, this is the time of year when we recap the amazing events we’ve shared with our youth, but none of these events could have happened without our incredible leader, Chevy. From the moment I joined KJ, I’ve watched how tirelessly Chevy works to enrich our youth’s lives with Judaism; there’s nothing more important to her than making sure each child who enters KJ leaves with a fun, positive, and meaningful experience of what it means to be a Jew.

In this week’s parsha, Parshat Shlach, we get a sense of how great Moshe was. All he cared about was bringing yahadut into the lives of his people, and I’ve had the privilege to work alongside another leader who couldn’t share this mission more. (Am I comparing Moshe to Chevy? She’s definitely got the costume.) KJYD won’t be the same without her and we will miss her and her zeal for our youth dearly.

We love you, Chevy and wish you all the best in what’s to come!

Roni Tessler & Your KJYD Family

Dear KJ Family,

As I am sure some of you have heard, our beloved Youth Director, Chevy Rubenstein Nat, will be departing this summer. Chevy has been an incredible force behind our Youth Department, dedicating her time and efforts to create a vibrant and engaging environment for our young members. Her creative ideas, unwavering dedication, and hard work have left an indelible mark on our children and the entire community.

Throughout her tenure, Chevy has ensured that our youth not only had fun in Shul, but also gained a deeper understanding of tefilah, Jewish life, Torah, and mitzvot. Her numerous successful programs and events reflect Chevy’s passion for instilling a love for our rich heritage and traditions. We are incredibly proud of her achievements and grateful for the positive impact she has had on our youth. At the same time, we will miss her enthusiasm, warm personality, and the unique energy she brought to our community. Under her leadership, our youth department flourished, our children thrived, and their connection with Judaism strengthened. So many of us benefitted from Chevy’s work at KJ, on behalf of Rabbi Steinmetz and the entire KJ Team, we thank Chevy for her outstanding contributions.

In the coming weeks, we will share new developments in our Youth Department, which will build upon the strong foundation Chevy has laid and will continue to engage our youth and nurture their spiritual, social, and intellectual growth. In the meantime, we encourage you to join us in expressing our gratitude to Chevy personally. Please take a moment to send her a note or speak with her directly, sharing your appreciation for her exceptional work and the positive impact she has had on our community.

Wishing you all a wonderful summer.

Rabbi Roy Feldman

Weekly Classes SUMMER SCHEDULE

DAILY

7:50 AM Following Daily Minyan

Shulkhan Arukh

Rabbi Meyer Laniado

SUNDAY

9:15 AM

Dr. William Major Memorial Advanced Shiur in Talmud

Rabbi Dr. Jeremy Wieder

*No shiur in August.

TUESDAY

9:00 AM

Reading the Prophets: The Book of Samuel

Rabbi Roy Feldman

Learn the Laws of Berakhot (Blessings) with a daily 3-4 minute bite-sized class.

WEDNESDAY

5:30 PM

Beginners Hebrew

Sara Rosen

For those who want to start building a foundation in Hebrew to help them read Jewish Prayer.

8:00 PM

Kitzur Shulchan Aruch

Morris Massel

Continuing our study of Masekhet Brachot with its classical commentaries.

Read Sefer Shmuel closely and explore the literary and philosophical aspects of this book.

6:30 PM

Intermediate Hebrew

Sara Rosen

This popular class enables those with no previous background in Hebrew to learn to read Hebrew in just a short time.

Read our weekly Shabbat Announcements at ckj.org/publications to see our Shabbat classes!

A classic, concise work of halakha that covers the complete spectrum of Jewish law. The class is a textbased class and open to all.

7:30 PM

Advanced Hebrew

Sara Rosen

Designed for those with some ability to read Hebrew, students practice reading skills using the siddur and other Jewish texts.

All Sara Rosen Class Dates:

July: 5, 12, 19

August: 9, 16, 30

September: 6, 13, 20, 27

ckj.org/weeklyclasses

May They Go Higher & Higher!

We extend a warm Mazal Tov to the following young members of the Congregation who participated in Advancement Day Exercises as they completed the Ramaz Middle School:

CHLOE ROSE ARCHIBALD

daughter of Dr. Carmit and Georges Archibald

EDWARD ISAAC ASH

son of Deborah and Isaac Ash

NATHAN PHINEAS ATTIAS

son of Karine and Eric Attias

MAIA EDEN BERNSTEIN

daughter of Jessica Bernstein and Rafi Bernstein

granddaughter of Gloria and Richard Kobrin

CHARLOTTE GRACE CHALME

daughter of Vanessa and Ray Chalme

CALEB HELLER DOFT

son of Suzanne and Jacob Doft

grandson of Arlene and Avrom Doft and Marion and William Weiss

VICTORIA BANKS DOFT

daughter of Abigail and David Doft

granddaughter of Arlene and Avrom Doft and Marion and William Weiss

JOSEPH GABRIEL ENGLANDER

son of Megan and Michael Englander

grandson of Caryl Englander and Israel Englander

CHARLOTTE ELIANA FARBER

daughter of Dr. Rebecca and Evan Farber

MATHIS MOSHE GAD

son of Vanessa and Joseph Gad

ANDREW JOSEPH GAGE

son of Elisa and Avi Gage

grandson of Doina and Dr. Lawrence Bryskin

ELEANOR BETH GOLDFARB

daughter of Sharon Bilar-Goldfarb and Jeffrey Goldfarb

ALEXEI NATHAN GOMBERG

son of Sophia and David Gomberg

grandson of Gail Propp

ELIANA MEIRA GONEN

daughter of Sharon and Shachar Gonen

EZRA MAIER GONEN

son of Sharon and Shachar Gonen

CALEB DAVID GRANT

son of Elana Vinar-Grant and Henry Grant

NOAH JAMES HILTZIK

son of Dana and Matthew Hiltzik

HARRY HELLER HONIG

son of Elizabeth and Shaun Honig

CHARLES ROBERT KAPLAN

son of Jessica and Adam Kaplan

AYLA RACHEL KATZ

daughter of Dr. Amanda and Meir Katz

HANNAH ARIEL KATZ

daughter of Stephanie and Bennett Katz

GABRIEL HARRY KESTENBAUM

son of Rina and Zachary Kestenbaum

grandson of Ruth Kestenbaum and Gerald Kestenbaum

SARA GEORGINA KLEINHAUS

daughter of Joanna and Emil Kleinhaus

granddaughter of Rosalie and Harry Kleinhaus

CAROLINE SOPHIE KOLLANDER

daughter of Lani and Jason Kollander

granddaughter of Laurie and Dr. Eli Bryk

LEVI HARRISON KOTULSKI

son of Amy and Absalom Kotulski

LEON ABRAHAM KREMER

son of Esther and Motty Kremer

EMANUEL JOSEPH KUSHNER

son of Kim and Jonathan Kushner

grandson of Lee and Murray Kushner

JAMES COLEMAN LANDY

son of Amy and Darren Landy

ELLIOT SHAYA LIBIN

son of Sherri and Alexander Libin

grandson of Margery & Dr. Barry Libin

CHLOE MIRRIAM LOLA MAHFAR

daughter of Emma and Sassan Mahfar

Ramaz Middle School

Advancements continued:

JARED SAMUEL MILLER

son of Mindy and Dr. Fredric Miller

grandson of Leonore Wolff

ZACHARY HENRY PAUL

son of Laury and Jason Paul

DANIEL EVAN PELDMAN

son of Jeanne and Adam Peldman

JOSEPH ELIJAH RABBANI

son of Alexandra and Haskel Rabbani

ADAM JOSEPH SCHWARTZ

son of Suzanne and Robert Schwartz

grandson of Marina and Sam Schwartz

NOAH SHALOM SEBAG

son of Ariel Sebag and Albert Sebag

grandson of Jean Lindenbaum

KATE ROSE SERPHOS

daughter of Abbe and Michael Serphos

GABRIEL JUDAH TAMBOR

son of Abigail and Shai Tambor

ARI LAZARUS TANZ

son of Carla and Steven Tanz

grandson of Judy Tanz

BENJAMIN DYLAN TITLE

son of Drs. Rachel and Craig Title

JORDAN ELLIOT TITLE

son of Drs. Rachel and Craig Title

Academic Achievements

congratulations to our Ramaz Upper School graduates!

Talia Berman, daughter of Sara & Mark Bloom and David Berman, upon her graduation from the Ramaz Upper School. She will attend Kivunim in the fall and University of Michigan upon her return. Mazal Tov as well to KJ grandparents Judy and Michael Steinhardt.

Elana Lena Bernstein (Ramaz ’19), daughter of Renee and Michael Bernstein and granddaughter of Eleanore Reznik, upon her graduation from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Neurobiology. Elana will be working in the field and will then continue her education with an advanced degree. Elana will spend time traveling this summer throughout Europe and Japan.

Eliza Binstock, daughter of Yaira Singer and Matthew Binstock, upon her graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as a recipient of the David Kagan Memorial Award given to the student athletes who best exemplify the values of sportsmanship and menschlichkeit both on and off the playing field. She will attend Columbia University in the fall. Mazal Tov as well to KJ grandparents Dr. Adina and Michael Singer.

Andrew Boyarsky, son of Jennifer and Jonathan Boyarsky, upon his graduation from the Ramaz Upper School. He will attend Baruch College in the fall. Mazal Tov as well to KJ grandmother Shirley Boyarsky.

Eliana Cepelowicz, daughter of Alexandra Zohn and Vitor Cepelowicz, upon her graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as a recipient of the Danièle Gorlin Lassner French Award for outstanding ability in French. She will attend Ecole Hoteliere Lusanne in Switzerland in the fall.

Ariella Chetrit, daughter of Monique and Eli Chetrit, upon her graduation from the Ramaz Upper School upon her graduation from the Ramaz Upper School. She will attend New York University in the fall.

Joshua Chetrit, son of Lisa and Juda Chetrit, upon his graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as recipient of a School Service Award, presented to the graduating senior students who have shown outstanding commitment in service to school programs. He will attend University of Michigan in the fall.

Eliana Davidson, daughter of Nina and Mitchell Davidson, upon her graduation from the Ramaz Upper School. She will attend Barnard College in the fall. Mazal Tov as well to KJ grandparents Ingeborg and Ira Rennert.

Elliot Davis, son of Eugenia and Dr. Ira Davis, upon his graduation from the Ramaz Upper School. He will attend Yeshivat Orayta in the fall and Princeton University upon his return from Israel. Mazal Tov as well to KJ grandparents Sara and Joseph Nathanson. Jenny Davis, daughter of Eugenia and Dr. Ira Davis, upon her graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as the recipient of the Lillian Jacobs Award for excellence in character and dedication to the spirit of Jewish ethics. She will attend Yeshivat Sha’alvim for women in the fall and Princeton University upon her return from Israel. Mazal Tov as well to KJ grandparents Sara and Joseph Nathanson.

Joseph Doft, son of Suzanne and Jacob Doft, upon his graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as a recipient of the Renee Margareten Berger Award, presented to the students who have attained the highest academic achievements. He will attend Torah Tech in the fall and University of Pennsylvania

upon his return from Israel. Mazal Tov to KJ grandparents Arlene & Avrom Doft and Marian & William Weiss.

Jack Dushey, son of Fortunee and David Dushey, upon his graduation from the Ramaz Upper School. He will attend Northeastern University in the fall.

Manie Dweck, daughter of Sandy and Eli Dweck, upon her graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as a recipient of the Rabbi Joseph H. Lookstein Award For Personal Growth presented to the seniors who have demonstrated outstanding academic and personal growth. She will attend Amit in the fall and New York University upon her return from Israel.

Ohad Erdan, son of Shlomit and Ambassador Gilad Erdan, upon his graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as a recipient of the Ramaz IDF Award presented to the seniors who choose to enter the IDF or Sherut Leumi after being graduated from Ramaz. He will serve in the IDF beginning this fall.

Simon Fertig, son of Nechama and Jason Fertig, upon his graduation from the Ramaz Upper School. He will attend Tulane University in the fall.

Chloe Gad, daughter of Vanessa and Joseph Gad, upon her graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as the recipient of the Sam Gyenes Memorial Award given to the student selected by the class as the individual most concerned with the needs and sensitivities of their

classmates. She will attend Kivunim in the fall and New York University upon her return.

Alexander Gage, son of Elisa and Avi Gage, upon his graduation from the Ramaz Upper School. He will attend Torah Tech in the fall and University of Maryland upon his return from Israel. Mazal Tov to KJ grandparents Doina and Dr. Lawrence Bryskin.

Alexa Gribetz, daughter of Dr. Carin and Eric Gribetz, upon her graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as a recipient of the Dr. Saul G. Agus Memorial Award for Service in and Commitment to the Field of Healthcare awarded to the seniors who have demonstrated dedication to clinical medicine or related healthcare fields through service, continued education or outreach; the Gertrude Lookstein Eishet Chayil Award given to the senior women who best integrate the qualities of kindness, love and dignity with piety, intellect and communal responsibility; a Yearbook Award given to graduating seniors for outstanding contributions to the Yearbook; and a Chorus Award given to graduating seniors for excellence in chorus. She will attend University of Pennsylvania in the fall.

Nathan Haber, son of James Haber, upon his graduation from the Ramaz Upper School. He will attend Yeshivat Moreshet Yerushalayim in the fall and Syracuse University upon his return from Israel.

Ilana Kahn, daughter of Judy and Dr. Hirshel Kahn, upon her graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as the recipient of the Sue Moskowitz

Chesed Award for demonstrating exceptional concern for people and kindness to those in need. She will attend Midreshet Torah v’Avodah in the fall and University of Pennsylvania upon her return from Israel.

Abraham Kohl, son of Caren and Samuel Kohl, upon his graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as a recipient of the Jesse Deutsch Tefillah Award given to the seniors who have shown a demonstrable commitment to Tefillah throughout high school, and a Band Award for participating with distinction in the school band. He will attend Yeshivat Orayta in the fall and Harvard College upon his return from Israel.

Ezra Kohl, son of Caren and Samuel Kohl, upon his graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as a recipient of the Norman Kreinen Fortitude Award honoring the students who, since their start at Ramaz, have exhibited unwavering perseverance, through hard work and determination, in pursuit of their academic and personal goals, and a Chorus Award presented to graduating seniors for excellence in chorus. He will attend Yeshivat Orayta in the fall and University of Chicago upon his return from Israel.

Chloe Kotulski, daughter of Amy and Absalom Kotulski, upon her graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as a recipient of the Rabbi Joseph H. Lookstein Award For Personal Growth presented to the seniors who have demonstrated outstanding academic and personal growth. She will attend Hunter College in the fall.

Jacqueline Landy, daughter of Amy and Darren Landy, upon her graduation from the Ramaz Upper School. She will attend New York University in the fall.

Noah Libin, son of Sherri and Alexander Libin, upon his graduation from the Ramaz Upper School. He will attend Torah Tech in the fall and Emory University upon his return from Israel. Mazal Tov as well to KJ grandparents Margery and Dr. Barry Libin.

Charlotte Newhouse, daughter of Nancy and Andrew Newhouse, upon her graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as a recipient of a Yearbook Award given to graduating seniors for outstanding contributions to the Yearbook. She will be attending Bar Ilan University XP in the fall and Washington University upon her return from Israel.

Joshua North, son of Deborah and Randall North, upon his graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as a recipient of a Band Award for participating with distinction in the band. He will attend Yeshivat Netiv Aryeh in the fall and University of Michigan upon his return from Israel.

Samuel Ostad, son of Dr. Edward Ostad and Lisa Ohebshalom, upon his graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as a recipient of the Sidney Scheinberg Award for Politics and Law for commitment and outstanding performance in politics and law. He will attend Dartmouth College in the fall.

Bnei Mitzvah

Ramaz Upper School Graduates continued:

Judah Weiss

Mazal Tov to Jessica and Marcus Weiss upon the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Judah, at Congregation Kehilath Jeshurun on Shabbat morning, June 17, when he read Parashat Shelach and delivered a D’var Torah. Judah is a rising 8th grader at the Ramaz Middle School.

Welcome!

Congregation Kehilath Jeshurun warmly welcomes the following new members who joined the Congregation between the printing of the last Bulletin, May 11, and this Bulletin, which went to press on June 26:

Marlene Kreinen

Rebecca Rubin & Nisan Lerea

Grace & Marc Mukasy

Blimie & Amir Nakash

Sirena Silber

Camilla & Jonathan Zylberberg

Alexandra Paul, son of Laury and Jason Paul, upon her graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as a recipient of a Chorus Award presented to graduating seniors for excellence in chorus. She will attend Barnard College in the fall.

Ari Porter, son of Dr. Ronit Kahanowicz and Elliot Porter, upon his graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as a recipient of the Ramaz Prize, given to the student who best exemplifies the ideals and goals of a Ramaz education: menschlichkeit; commitment to Torah, mitzvot, Am Yisrael and Medinat Yisrael; superior academic achievement; and a demonstration of responsibility for the society of which he is a part; the Dr. Saul G. Agus Memorial Award for Service in and Commitment to the Field of Healthcare awarded to the seniors selected who have demonstrated dedication to clinical medicine or related healthcare fields through service, continued education or outreach; and a Photography Award given to a graduating senior for excellence in photography. He will attend Yeshivat Orayta in the fall and University of Maryland upon his return from Israel.

Sophie Schwartz, daughter of Erica and Robert Schwartz, upon her graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as a recipient of the Meyer Appleman Memorial Award for excellence and commitment to religious studies. She will attend Midreshet Torah v’Avodah in the fall and University of Maryland upon her return from Israel. Mazal Tov to KJ grandparents Sheira and Steven Schacter.

Rebecca Silber, daughter of Sirena Silber, upon her graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as a recipient of the Gloria Schrenzel Sheer Dance Award presented to graduating seniors for excellence in dance; and the Rifka Rosenwein Journalism Award granted to the senior who reflects a commitment to a year of study in Israel and excellence in journalism and writing. She will attend Midreshet Torah v’Avodah in the fall and University of Chicago when she returns from Israel.

Michael Snow, son of Lisa and Lee Snow, upon his graduation from Harvard Law School. Michael was awarded first place for the best student paper addressing ‘The Intersection of Faith and Law’ for his paper entitled: “Are Kosher Laws Kosher?” This fall, Michael will join the New York City Law Department as the Corporation Counsel Honors Fellow.

Andrew Spielfogel, son of Michelle and Dr. William Spielfogel, upon his graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as a recipient of The Julius L. Lassner Semper Fi Award for Good Citizenship and Service to God and Country, presented to the Ramaz seniors who best exemplify the values Ramaz aims to instill in its students: unconditional love of God, Jewish pride, love of country, menschlichkeit and chesed. He will attend Torah Tech in the fall and University of Chicago upon his return from Israel. Mazal Tov as well to KJ grandparents, Rebecca and John Steindecker.

Hannah Tambor, daughter of Abigail and Shai Tambor, upon her graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as a recipient of the Norman Kreinen Fortitude Award honoring the students who, since their start at Ramaz, have exhibited unwavering perseverance, through hard work and determination, in pursuit of their academic and personal goals. She will attend Kivunim in the fall and Dartmouth College upon her return from Israel.

Max Tanz, son of Carla and Steven Tanz, upon his graduation from the Ramaz Upper School. He will attend the George Washington University in the fall. Mazal Tov as well to KJ grandmother, Judy Tanz.

Solomon Taragin, son of Dr. Michelle Kahane Taragin and Bruce Taragin, upon his graduation from the Ramaz Upper School. He will attend Pepperdine University in the fall.

Joshua Todes, son of Lisa and Mark Todes, upon his graduation from the Ramaz Upper School, as a recipient of the Rochelle Miller Sherut Award, presented to the graduating seniors who, through leadership and dedication, have generated school spirit, contributed to the community, and enhanced the quality of student life. He will attend Torah Tech this fall and Washington University upon his return from Israel.

Within Our Family

BIRTHS

Mazal Tov to –

Shira and Joshua Arcus upon the birth of a daughter, Rae Harper (Raphaela Kineret). Mazal Tov to the overjoyed grandparents, Ellen & Robert Kapito.

Jackie Leifert Bodenheimer and Dr. Saul Bodenheimer upon the birth of a grandson, Gidon Moshe, born to their children Dina and Michael Basin.

Sheera and Kenny Eckstein upon the birth of a granddaughter, Romi Ruthann (Rochel Leah), born to Natasha and Max Eckstein.

Jewel and Ted Edelman upon the birth of a grandson, Julian Paul (Aharon Yehudah), born to their children, Andrea and Dr. Jeffrey Kay. Mazal Tov as well to KJ members great-grandmother Trina Cleeman and great-great aunt KJ’s Anne Addison.

Hannah Low upon the birth of a greatgranddaughter, Brooke Dylan (Batya), daughter of Samantha and Mitchell Friedman. Mazal Tov as well to the delighted grandparents, Debbie and Michael Doppelt.

Aviva Roumani & Ethan Mackin upon the birth of their first child and son, Ronan Joseph (Ronen Yosef).

Beth & Ronald Bernard and Sharon Manto and Larry Manto upon the birth of a grandson, Spencer Sidney (Gideon), born to their children Marley and Gregory Manto.

Rosie and Mark Friedman upon the birth of a grandson, Moshe Chaim Shimon Friedman, a seventh child born to their children Rivkah and Rabbi Yosef Y. Friedman of Jerusalem.

Jennifer and Gabriel Gershowitz upon the birth of a baby girl, Brie Lenox (Bar Leah).

Judy and Dr. Marty Grumet upon the birth of a granddaughter, Aluma Hallel, born to their children, Avi and Leah Grumet in Jerusalem.

Rae & Stanley Gurewitsch and Anne & Sam Schwartz upon the birth of a great-granddaughter and granddaughter respectively, Sophie Blake. Mazal Tov as well to parents Catie and Jeremy Schwartz.

Dina & Marshall Huebner and Dr. Jack & Jolene Sutton on the birth of a granddaughter Maya Anne (Maayan Chana) born to their children Leora & Abe Sutton.

Drs. Jessica & Avi Kagan upon the birth of a daughter, Meadow Lily (Meira Rachel), sister to big brother Russell.

Carol and Jeffrey Kaufman upon the birth of a grandson, Archie Kai (Ari Chai), born to their children Amalia (Molly) and Zach Mandel.

Shelley & Marty Kaufman upon the birth of a grandson, Jack Sonny, Moshe Yisrael, son of Emily and Sam Shron. Mazal Tov, as well, to the overjoyed KJ great-grandmother, Hannah Low.

Grace and Marc Mukasey upon the birth of a son. Mazal Tov as well to the delighted KJ grandparents Susan and Hon. Michael Mukasey.

Jesse and Joe Scherban upon the birth of a daughter, Eden Emmanuelle (Eden Bracha). Mazal Tov as well to proud KJ grandparents Ruth Kestenbaum and Gerald Kestenbaum

Alex and David Seidenberg on the birth of a son, Paul (Pinchas).

Mattie and Max Shulman upon the birth of a son, Leo Rahm (Rahm Aryeh). Mazal Tov as well to the KJ grandparents, Ellen and Robert Kapito.

Dr. Phyllis and Mark Speiser upon the birth of a granddaughter, Ella, born to their children Eva and Eliyahu Speiser of Jerusalem.

May these children grow up in the finest tradition of Torah, chupah, & ma'asim tovim.

Bnei mitzvah

DeeDee (z”l) and Dr. Victor Benel upon the Bar Mitzvah of their grandson, Kobi Joseph, son of Lena Fishman and Dani Benel (Ramaz ‘94), in Aspen, Colorado.

Carole and Dr. Seymour Cohen upon the Bar Mitzvah of their grandson, Ethan Cohen, son of Amanda and Roger (Ramaz ‘95) Cohen.

Ruthie and Jonathan Hecht upon the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Eugene. Mazal Tov as well to KJ grandparents, Barbara and Abe Esses.

Susan and Peter Frankel upon the Bat Mitzvah of their granddaughter, Julia Miriam Reed, daughter of Elisabeth Frankel Reed and Colin Reed.

Roni and Bob Pick upon the Bat Mitzvah of their granddaughter, Eliana Orly Sultan, and to her parents, Jennifer and Sam Sultan and siblings, Adira, Jordana, and Aaron.

ENGAGEMENTS

Dov Glick and Debra Glick upon the engagement of their son, Evan, to Gabriella Wolf, daughter of Becky and Daniel Wolf of Teaneck.

Judy & Marty Grumet upon the engagement of their daughter, Alexandra, to Hanoj Perez of Bal Harbour, FL, son of Vivian and Michael Perez.

Diane and Ashley Joffe upon the engagement of their daughter, Talia, to Austen Rabbie, son of Verna and Ronnie Rabbie of Roslyn, NY.

Debbie Kestenbaum and Paul Feingertz upon their engagement.

Susan and Scott Shay upon the engagement of their son, Benjamin, to Alyssa Kutner, daughter of Cindy & Lee (z’’l) Kutner of Denver, Colorado.

Dr. Meg Rosenblatt & David Stein upon the engagement of their son, Rabbi Ethan Stein, to Gabby Decter, daughter of Shari & David Shapiro of Lawrence, NY and Susan & Bruce Decter of Great Neck, NY.

Shoshana T. Bookson and Dr. Saul R. Stromer upon the engagement of their son, Michael Barry Stromer, to Shira Broner, daughter of Geula Broner, of Jerusalem.

Roselyn Weitzner upon the engagement of her granddaughter, Yael Weitzner, daughter of Michelle and Mitchell Weitzner, to Zach Greenblatt, son of Adrienne and David Greenblatt, of Englewood.

May their weddings take place in happiness and blessing.

MARRIAGES

Evan & Dr. Bruce Charash upon their wedding.

Sheera & Kenny Eckstein upon the marriage of Zach Eckstein, son of Ruthann z”l & Kenny Eckstein, to Lily Abrahams, daughter of Stacey & Harvey Abrahams.

Rena & Scott Hoffman and Bettina & Spencer Waxman upon the marriage of their children, Jeremy and Sara. Mazal Tov to the overjoyed grandparents Ann Sterman and Wendy & Sidney Ingber and Marion & Dr. Samuel Waxman.

Michele & Ronald Jaspan upon the marriage of their son, Benjamin, to Hannah Tucker, daughter of Cathy & Michael z”l Tucker of Houston, Texas.

Florence & Robert Rothman upon the marriage of their son, Stanley, to Rebecca Liebowitz, daughter of Sara & Ted Liebowitz, of Hewlett Bay Park.

May the newlywed couples be blessed to build homes faithful to the traditions of the Jewish people.

Dr. Neil Flomenbaum, upon delivering the commencement address to this year’s graduates of Yeshiva University’s Albert Einstein College of Medicine.

Rose Gerszberg upon being honored on alongside KJ Yoetzet Halakha Dr. Julia Baruch, recipient of the Miriam Glaubach Center Award for Excellence at Nishmat’s Gala. Audrey & Rabbi Haskel Lookstein and Lisa & Rabbi Chaim Steinmetz were Honorary Chairs.

Rabbi Haskel Lookstein upon being honored with the “Lifetime Humanitarian Award” at the First Annual Accessibility Accelerator Gala.

Nathan Royce Silverstein upon receiving an honorary degree on from Haifa University, reflecting his generosity in dedicating a new Law School building in memory of his parents, Max Silverstein & Elizabeth Blume.

academic achievements

Anna Eisenstat, upon graduating with a Masters Degree from Harvard Divinity School. Anna is the daughter of Dr. Jennifer & Jack Eisenstat of Efrat, Israel, and the granddaughter of cherished KJ Member Suzy Eisenstat & Sandy Eisenstat (z”l).

Suzy Eisenstat upon her daughter-in-law, Tamar (Abraham) Green Eisenstat, completing her Ordination at Yeshivat Maharat. Tamar is starting work as a Chaplain at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital.

Berel Landerer, son of Dr. David and Suri Landerer, upon his graduation next week from Yeshiva Ketana of Manhattan. He will be attending Yeshiva Shaar HaTorah for high school.

Alex Massel, son of Caroline and Morris Massel, upon his graduation from the Frisch. School. He will attend Yeshivat Har Etzion in the fall and Yeshiva University’s Honors Program upon his return from Israel. Mazal Tov as well to KJ grandparents Heni and Harvey Arfa.

Emily Mittler, daughter of Geraldine and Jeffrey Mittler, upon her graduation from from Middle School at Heschel and her advancement to the High School. Mazal Tov as well to KJ grandparents Janet and Mark Mittler and Wendy Zizmor.

Dr. David and Ruth Musher, upon their grandson, Henry Brenner, completing Middle School at the Charles E. Smith Jewish Day School in Rockville, MD, and starting the High School next year; upon their granddaughter, Ari Eisenstadt, winning the Beit Midrash Award at the Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy in Bryn Mawr, PA; and upon their granddaughter, Tali Brenner, the daughter of Sarah and Matthew Brenner, being confirmed as a member of the National Society of High School Scholars. Tali is entering 11th Grade at the Charles E Smith Jewish Day School in Rockville MD.

MILESTONES

Rosie & Dr. Mark Friedman on celebrating their golden wedding anniversary.

COMMUNAL NEWS & HONORS

Pamela Nadler Emmerich upon being elected President of American Friends of the Hebrew University.

Suzy Eisenstat, upon the high school graduations of two grandchildren: Ella Weisz, daughter of Lilly & David Weisz, and Solomon Eisenstat, son of Abe & Tamar Eisenstat.

Ezra Golan, son of Gil Golan, upon his graduation from Yeshivah of Flatbush High School. Ezra will attend Yeshivat Lev Aharon in the fall and Rutgers Business School upon his return from Israel. Mazal Tov as well to proud KJ grandmother, Rina Golan.

Ruth Shapiro upon the graduation of her grandson, Daniel Hammerschlag, son of Debbie Feuer, from the University of Indiana with an MBA; upon the graduation of her grandson, Eli Shapiro, son of Monica and Sandy Shapiro, from Yeshiva University with a degree in computer sciences; and upon the graduation of her granddaughter, Netty Shapiro, daughter of Hannah and Jonathan Shapiro, from the Windward School. Netty will be attending SAR in the fall.

Francesca Rodriguez, daughter of Nilda and KJ Building Superintendent Freddie Rodriguez, upon her high school graduation. She will be attending NYC Tech in the fall.

In Memoriam

George Baumgarten

A cherished son of the Baumgarten family whose scion, Harry Baumgarten, of blessed memory, was President of KJ from 1969 to 1974, George loved KJ and everything about it. He was a wonderful Torah reader at his Bar Mitzvah, and he gloried in reading the Torah throughout his life, especially when he could read it at KJ on Simchat Torah, completing the reading of the Torah and beginning the first Parasha for the New Year.

George was also an excellent Ba’al Tefillah who thoroughly enjoyed davening before the Amud. His surviving brother, Fred, was extremely caring of him, particularly in George’s older years, George was also a loving father to his daughter, Arielle.

An avid reader and a dedicated intellectual, George was a cherished alumnus of Ramaz. He had a perfect record of never missing a Ramaz Parents Council Dinner or any important moment in the KJ year. He was a very loyal and loving son of this community.

Dr. Richard Jacobs

Dr. Richard Jacobs was graduated from the Illinois College of Podiatric Medicine and was in private practice for thirty years in College Park, Maryland, specializing in limb salvage and wound care, as well as foot and ankle surgery.

He was married for twenty-three years to Debra Weingarten and they jointly had an apartment in New York which they would frequent. When there, he would be welcomed by us at KJ.

He and Debra were members of the congregation for thirty-two years, they were consistent in their association with us and support of us even though their primary residence was in Maryland.

Marvin Schaffer

He and his surviving wife, Gail, were members of KJ for over thirty years. Marvin was the loving father of Adam and Ilisa (Cappell), both of whom were educated at Ramaz. The shiva house was populated in large part by former classmates who came to express their condolences.

Marvin was a beloved member of our community. We will miss him.

Dr. Harvey Wolinsky

Dr. Wolinsky was a cherished member of KJ, who occupied his place in the Main Synagogue on a very regular and consistent basis. Everyone of his friends at KJ, who surrounded that seat, loved him and respected him.

An accomplished cardiologist, Harvey Wolinsky was adored by his patients. He was known for his dedication to them and his treatment of them as people and friends. When he suffered his short, final illness, his hospital room was filled with letters and messages from patients who were so grateful to him.

A loving father to Elise (Daniel) Kasell and Dr. Claire Wolinsky, he was also the adoring grandfather of six grandchildren, four of whom are being educated in Ramaz, where Elise is a member of the faculty.

Chevra Kadisha

Join a dedicated group of men and women performing the sacred mitzvah of preparing the recently deceased for proper, dignigied burial in accordance with Jewish Tradition and law. Contact Riva Alper for the women’s Chevra Kadisha at riva@ckj.org and contact Isaac Pollak for the men’s Chevra Kadisha at isaac@lgpltd.com.

CONDOLENCES

Beth Bengualid upon the passing of her father, Joel Portnoy.

The Chetrit Family upon the passing of their patriarch, Simon Chetrit.

Estanne Abraham Fawer upon the passing of her husband, Marty Fawer.

Dr. Tamar Goldstein upon the passing of her mother, Mira Koschitzky.

Richard Klass upon the passing of his mother, Eva Klass.

Samantha Rubenstein upon the passing of her grandmother, Freda Herschel Epstein.

Janie Schwalbe upon the passing of her sister, Evelyn Bienenfeld.

Jodi Weinstein upon the passing of her father, Dr. Jeffrey Buckman.

May they be comforted among all those who mourn for Zion and Jerusalem.

Synagogue Memorial Plaques

Visit ckj.org/plaques to order plaques for deceased loved ones (or to reserve for yourself after 120 years of health and blessing).

Community Resources

Yoetzet Halakhah

Julia Baruch serves as the KJ Yoetzet Halakhah. This position of great responsibility falls to a woman with recognized expertise in the field of Taharat Hamishpacha and women's health issues who can advise women on topics such as niddah, fertility problems, and sex education for teens. Julia is reachable by phone at 929-274-0628 or email at JB.Yoetzet@gmail.com.

Community Mikvehs

The Jacques and Hanna Schwalbe Mikvah at 419 East 77th Street (1st and York Avenues); 212-3592020

The Rennert Mikvah at 5th Ave Synagogue at 5 East 62nd Street (Fifth Avenue) 212-753-6058

The West Side Mikvah at 234 West 74th Street (Broadway and West End Avenue) 212-579-2011

Bikur Cholim

For over 35 years, a dedicated group of KJ members have been visiting patients at Memorial SloanKettering Hospital. For more information, contact Volunteer Coordinator Karen Lerman at lerman. karenj@gmail.com.

Judaica Shop

Judaica Classics by Doina is at 1248 Lexington Avenue, between 84th and 85th Streets. The store has a great selection of Judaica for all gift and holiday needs, including exquisite silver, embroidery, ceramics and all manner of artistic expression.

Business hours are: Sunday 10 am–5 pm, MondayThursday 10 am–6 pm, Friday 10 am–2 pm, and by appointment. Call Doina Bryskin at 212-722-4271 or email doina@judaicaclassics.com.

Manhattan Eruv

The Manhattan Eruv includes an expanding number of neighborhoods in the city. Please call the hotline to check on the weekly status of the Eruv at 212874-6100 x 452. View the Manhattan Eruv Map.

JYC - The Hebrew School with HEART

The Jewish Youth Connection (JYC) is the Sunday morning Hebrew school founded by KJ members Susan and Scott Shay with the goal of providing a meaningful Jewish education to unaffiliated families. A total reinvention of the Hebrew School experience, its focus is to help foster a quality connection to Judaism for students and families alike.

No synagogue membership is required to attend JYC or participate in any of the school programming, and JYC families are invited to take advantage of congregational offerings. Visit jyc.info to learn more.

KJ Caring Initiative

At KJ you are not alone. Homebound? Isolated? Ailing? Our helpful volunteers are available to visit, call, and give emotional support. All interactions are strictly confidential. If you know someone who might benefit from our attention, or if you would like to be called, please contact Leah Modlin at 212-7226575 or leahm23@gmail.com.

Hatzolah

The Upper East Side Division volunteers volunteer EMTs and provides immediate response and the highest quality emergency medical and life-saving services to our community, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Call 212-410-9796 for information. For emergencies, dial 212-230-1000.

Shabbat Hospitality

Let’s build a warm and welcoming KJ community! Are you new to the community? Do you still feel like you’re new to the community or not sufficiently connected? If you’re interested in meeting new people, hosting members, or being hosted, please contact yael@ckj.org.

Dorot

Located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, Dorot has distinguished itself as a bastion of support for the frail elderly. We encourage our community to participate in their many volunteer initiatives - both holiday related and year-round - that forge bonds between the generations. See dorotusa.org for volunteer opportunities.

Mitzvah Toy Campaign

This heartfelt program encourages children from Nursery School through Grade 8 to donate one or more of their birthday presents to children in need. For information contact Joanna Kleinhaus at JoannaKleinhaus@gmail.com.

W Connection

A grassroots organization created to meet the needs of widows. To learn more about the KJ/Ramaz chapter, contact 212-879-4783 or Gabriella Major at gabriellamaj@gmail.com.

Career Network

The KJ/Ramaz Career Network endeavors to help members find jobs, or fill a vacancy with a qualified shul member. Contact Larry Kassman at KasTrade@ aol.com.

UJA @ KJ

UJA @ KJ is a partnership between KJ members and UJA-Federation of New York that facilitates KJ Members receiving unique opportunities to utilize the resources of UJA-Federation. With an assortment of causes and agencies in need of our support, UJA @ KJ enables KJ Members to become involved in and exposed to the important work of UJA-Federation in New York, Israel and around the world. For more information or to register, contact Atara Burian at 212-836-1267.

KJ Food Pantry

One of the few kosher food pantries in Manhattan, it provides weekly (every Monday) staples as well as fresh fruit and vegetables to those in need in our community. For more information or to volunteer, contact Bernice Kahn at bernice.berman@gmail. com.

Cemetery Plots on Paramus, NJ KJ Grounds

To purchase burial plots at Beth El cemetery in NJ, visit ckj.org/burialplots. If you would like to speak with someone about this opportunity, please contact Sy Yanofsky in the synagogue office at 212774-5620 or sy@ckj.org.

July & August 2023