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President
Marc Zuckerman
Rabbi
Jeremy Wiederhorn
Cantor
Gedalia Penner-Robinson
Editor-In-Chief
Diana Sussman
Assistant Editor-In-Chief
Joni Usdan
Senior Editor
Sara Gaynes Levy
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Editorial Board
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A special thank you to everyone who contributed to the writing, editing, and photography of this publication. This magazine would not have been possible without your insight and support.
30 Hillspoint Road Westport, CT 06880
Phone: 203.454.4673
Email: tcs@tcs-westport.org
TCS congregation turns out in force for Cantor's Installation
In This Issue
TCS Scene
Check out what the TCS Members have been doing. A look at the past months in pictures.
Spotlight on Gangs
Recounting experiences of TCS members who joined the mission to support lsrael.
Mazal Tov to our B’nei Mitzvah
Spotlight on Arthur & Ellen Gang
Dad's Special Gift: A Baby Boy
Laughter Is The Best Medicine
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LETTERS : FROM THE RABBI’S STUDY
Dreaming of Sweet Freedom
Dear Friends,
Omer Wenkert, one of the recently released hostages from Hamas captivity, wrote: “It happened. I’m free! There is no price for freedom, and I almost didn’t remember how sweet and nice it is.”
In the Passover Haggadah, Rav and Shmuel offer two different versions of slavery from which the Israelites escaped. Shmuel argues it was physical slavery while Rav suggests it was spiritual slavery.
I’ve been thinking about this discussion between Rav and Shmuel in the context of the hostages who have shared their stories of captivity.
As we imagined, the physical slavery was horrific. Living in dark tunnels without seeing the sunlight for months at a time, if not the entire time. Regular beatings. Hunger and starvation, trying to survive on small pieces of pita and dried-out dates. Chained by the arms and legs for so long that some had to re-learn how to walk. I was amazed by the story of 80 year-old Gadi Mozes, who tried to overcome his physical slavery by walking up to 7km a day in his tiny room. For all of the hostages, their return to Israel marked an obvious freedom from the physical slavery they endured.
The spiritual enslavement was perhaps equally as brutal given the psychological torture which they endured by their Hamas captors. They were regularly told lies to defeat their spirit and take away hope. However, unlike physical slavery where there is very little one can do to overcome, many hostages were able to find ways to conquer their spiritual enslavement. Some reported that they became more “religious” while in captivity—saying Kiddush on Friday night, praying more often, and even fasting on
Yom Kippur. The tatzpaniyot, the women surveillance soldiers who were released, spoke about translating Shalom Aleichem into Arabic and singing it every Shabbat, since they weren’t permitted to sing in Hebrew. Those who were held captive together found spiritual strength in one another, and some who were alone were able to somehow find strength talking with their families in their minds. Others found ways to connect with their captors.
Even after their release, the former hostages continue to struggle with the aftereffects of both physical and spiritual slavery. The physical rehabilitation will undoubtedly take a long time and I imagine the recovery from spiritual enslavement will take even longer.
During the seder we recite the words “This year we are slaves, next year may we be free.” Until now, I found this section to be ironic given that the seder is all about celebrating our freedom. If we are free, how can we still be slaves? The answer I have suggested is that we can all think about the ways in which we are still enslaved, metaphorically. After listening to the testimony of the former hostages, I understand this concept in a new light.
At the time of writing this article, there are still 59 hostages (at least 35 believed to be dead) in Gaza. I hope that by the time you read this, every one of the hostages will be home. Tragically, I expect that in many ways, even those who are home and alive will still be very much enslaved this year. This also holds true for their families, the entire people of Israel who experienced this collective trauma, and for the Jewish community worldwide.
As we prepare to sit around the seder table this year and tell the story of the
Let us pray that next year our brothers and sisters around the world will be a little more "free" and they will always remember how "sweet and nice it is."
Exodus from Egypt, let us pray that next year our brothers and sisters around the world will be a little more “free” and they will always remember how “sweet and nice it is.”
Wishing you and your loved ones a Zissen Pesach—a sweet Passover.
Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn
Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn
[F]or me, that home— with its warmth, its dedication to Jewish values and ritual, its close family and community relationships—is inextricable from the work I do as a cantor.
Dear TCS community,
I’m still glowing from my Installation early in February. Thank you again to everyone who made it possible—the TCS staff, the board, the lay-contributors, and most importantly all the congregants who attended, in person and virtually—to celebrate having me as part of your clergy team here at TCS. And thank you also to everyone who’s come up to me since to share how much you enjoyed it! It would’ve been enough just to show up, but the kind words about my fellow cantors’ musical contributions (It was like Broadway! What entertainment!) as well as my rabbinic colleagues' thoughtful words, that was the best part for me. I’m blessed to share my Conservative clergyship with marvelously talented peers, and it was such a treat that my community got to experience some of their incredible talents and deep wisdom.
The Warmth of My TCS Home
I wanted to share with you a little more about the song that I sang with my father, Rabbi Menachem Penner, at the end of the program, which for me was the most special part, but for more reasons than you might expect. (You can play it back anytime in the livestream archive on our TCS website, and if you’d like to hear a professional recording, the rendition on YouTube by Gilad Potolsky is particularly lovely.)
The words in Hebrew, transliteration and translation (the latter my own) are:
Vezakeinu lekabel shabbatot mitoch rov simcha, umitoch osher v’chavod, umitoch miyut avonot. V’tein banu yetzer tov l’ovdecha b’emet, u’b’yirah u’b’ahava
May we merit to bring in the Sabbath with joy, good fortune, and honor, and with no regrets. May we live up to our best selves, serving You with integrity, awe, and love.
The evening of the Installation, my father described how, in the Penner home, we sing that song every Friday night at our shabbos table. In many traditional homes of my upbringing, it was common to sing two songs before kiddush and motzi: Shalom Aleichem, with which many of us are familiar, and Eishet Chayil, an ode to the woman of the home, with which some are familiar due to its popularity in funeral settings for women as well.
But only in our home did we sing this Vezakeinu, inserted in between those two. No other homes, no other musical settings that I knew of for those words, nothing. This always stood out to me, but I didn’t think much of it until my year in the Rising Song residency, when our cohort was invited to participate in the Bartol Foundation’s workshop entitled “The Lullaby Project: Collaborative Songwriting.” I learned a lot about lullabies that day, but the most important thing I learned is that a lullaby needn’t be a song to which a baby is rocked to sleep. A lullaby can be any song—usually calming—that is ritually employed in the home, often on a regular basis, to which the members of the home grow attached. And I realized that Vezakeinu is our family lullaby: sung liltingly and lovingly in our home—and our home only—each and every Friday night.
This definition passed the litmus test for me, retroactively, in undergrad, when I was first coming out, and not entirely sure how my Orthodox family and I would be in a relationship. (As you can see from the Installation, I am blessed that it all turned out very well indeed.) Those were also my “gigging” a cappella days, when I would often be away for Shabbat, singing with a group at someone or other’s bar mitzvah, aufruf, etc., anywhere from Teaneck to London to San Diego to Cartagena.
And everywhere I went, no matter how I felt toward my family at that moment —loving, angry, confident, resentful, anxious—I would step aside and take a few moments to myself, to sing that song, every Friday night. It didn’t matter how I felt. That song represented the full spectrum, the full push and pull, of my relationship with my family. That song, for me, is home.
And for me, that home—with its warmth, its dedication to Jewish values and ritual, its close family and community relationships —is inextricable from the work that I do as a cantor. I’m so grateful to my father for prompting us to sing that together, because you all got an inside look at everything I’m trying to build in my cantorate, and in this pulpit—a home. This “heimish” (lit. homey) community, where all feel not just welcome, but cozy. If the song felt special when you were watching it, that’s why. That’s what I was channeling when I sang that song with my father.
If there’s any way in which I can help you feel more cozy at TCS, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Thank you all again, for a marvelous Installation and an unforgettable evening.
Wishing my TCS family a Zissen Pesach
Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson
1:
2:
Lynn
Joanne
Arielle Wein, Sarit Lewis, Courtney Fuchs, Meghan
Sara
Martha Zuckman 3:
Jessica Siegel, Eva Rawiszer 4: Gala: Honoree Dick Kalt, Fran Dunn Beth Rand, Jay Rand 5: Gala: Sarit Lewis, Fran Dunn, Lauren Jager-Hyman, Beth Rand 6: Gala: Sarit Lewis, Michael Lewis, Dan Cleiman, Meghan Cleiman 7: Gala: Martha Zuckman, Andrea Tanenbaum, Courtney Fuchs, Ava Mallin, Ryan Wolf 8: Gala: Julia Marx, Sharon Navarro, Candi Savin, Former TCS Co-President Ilene Frost, Former TCS Co-President Margie Labarre
All names listed from left to right. Children are not identified by name to protect their privacy.
Gala: Amanda Chase,
Pokorny,
Folger,
Glick
Gala:
Cleiman,
Gala:
Victoria Marcus, Joshua Marcus, Amit Swisa, Justin Brunwasser, Erika Brunwasser 7: Bridgeport Islanders Game: Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson and TCS families 8: Staff
9:
CONTINUED ON PAGE 19
Eva Grant-Rawiszer
Licensed Real Estate Salesperson
c: 917.318.7922
o: 203.227.1246
Erawiszer@wpsir.com 199 Post Road E. Westport, CT
1: Gala: Eva Rawiszer, Jennifer Frank, Deb Katz, Linda Sharkey, Lauren Barnett 2: Staff Party: Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson, Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn, Jane Feder 3: Gala: Philip Schaefer, Jessica Siegel, Joel Siegel, Wendy Schaefer, Richard Kesselman 4: Football Party: TCS families 5: Football Party: Children 6: Football Party:
Party: Joanne Folger, Nelson Blanco, Sara Glick, Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson, Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn
Bridgeport Islanders Game: David Kantor, Adrienne Kantor
Welcome to the World!
Lucy Greta Farber daughter of Danielle & Justin Farber, granddaughter of Julie Tolkin, niece of Dena & Aaron Tolkin, cousin of Ellie, Alexandra & Isaac
Jack Tate Schneider son of Lauren & Jason Schneider, grandson of Lisa & Adam Hodes
Elora James Mikuszewski daughter of Vanessa & Scott Mikuszewski, sister of Zoe
Welcome
New Members
Jennie & Adam Friend and their children Jamie & Jack
Anna & Tibor Nagy and their children Mikael, Avi & Kayla
Jane Seville & Toni Whistler
Mazal Tov to....
Weddings:
Rita Appel & Jon Fraade on the marriage of their daughter
Samantha Appel to Alex Reimers
Engagements:
Jennifer & Alan Clement on the engagement of their daughter
Shira Clement to Jack Brooks
Jennifer & Steven Goldstein on the engagement of their daughter
Rebecca Goldstein to Nick Nigro
Condolences
(Alphabetized by name of member relation)
Ovadia Catriel z”l, father of Revi Bellin
Leo Bloom z”l, uncle of Ira (Karen) Bloom
Stephen Byer z”l, father of Matthew (Susan) Byer
Robert "Bob" Frost z”l, father of Alan (Ilene) Frost
Barry Gross z”l, father of Dan (Candi Savin) Gross
Donald Hodes z”l, father of Adam (Lisa) Hodes
Salman Nahum z”l, father of Mazal Nahum
Herbert W. Felsenfeld M.D., Ph.D. z”l, father of Sally (Jonathan) Potter
Renee Rubin z”l, mother of Steven (Benay) Rubin
Kol Hakavod to ...
Torah and Haftorah Readers
Nicki Abramowitz
Rochelle Berman
Adeena Bromberg Seltzer
Henry Feuerstein
Gabriel Freedman-Naditch
Ellen Friedman
Phil Glick
Judy Greenberg
Mark Highman
Howard Hochster
Adam Hodes
Susan Ochman
Jay Rand
Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson
Doug Russ
Arthur Seltzer
Debbie Smolka
Michael Spiro
Geoffrey Stern
Noa Wacholder
Carol Wahler
Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn
Avi Wilson-Spiro
Shayna Wilson-Spiro
Todah Rabah for Sponsoring Kiddush Lunch
Jon Fraade and Rita Appel in honor of Cantor Penner-Robinson bringing Pizmon to TCS
Jake and Ilyssa Axel in honor of Chloe’s bat mitzvah
Richie & Melissa Birns in honor of Andrew’s bar mitzvah
Shelly & Michael Kassen and Marcia & Wayne Forman for sponsoring kiddush lunch in honor of Celia Brynn Forman's baby naming
The Koffsky family in memory of David Koffsky z”l
Pamela Schneider & David Young in honor of Samantha’s bat mitzvah
Rabbi Nicole Wilson-Spiro & Michael Spiro in honor of Noam’s bar mitzvah
Yvette & Bob Rose and Linda & Len Russ in honor the baby naming of Charlotte (Charlie) Rose
THE PRESIDENT
MARC ZUCKERMAN
Finding Resilience at Passover
Friends,
Our synagogue is more than a place of prayer— it’s a vibrant hub of learning, celebration, and community. Whether it’s our inspiring services, engaging classes, or lively social events, there’s always something happening to enrich your Jewish life.
Our clergy—each bringing warmth, wisdom, and dedication—help make our synagogue a place where tradition feels alive and relevant. We’re especially grateful for the energy and creativity of our new cantor, who has already made a lasting impact.
Judaism isn’t a spectator sport, and synagogue life isn’t just for the High Holidays. It’s about finding meaning in the everyday, deepening
connections, and being part of something bigger than ourselves. Wherever you are on your journey, we welcome you—no expectations, no judgment. Just an open invitation to engage, grow, and make Jewish life a more regular part of your world.
And if you’re looking for a way to give back, there are so many opportunities to get involved. Whether it’s lending a hand at an event, joining a committee, or simply greeting a new face, your time and effort make a real difference.
Come join us. Not because you have to, but because you’ll want to.
-Marc
A Note from Synagogue Leadership
THANK YOU TO OUR TCS OFFICE STAFF
As many of you know, our Executive Director, Cynthia, recently stepped down from her role. Cynthia was a valued member of our community, and we were sad to see her go. We wish her all the best in her new endeavors.
In the meantime, our incredible office staff—Joanne, Lynn, and Amanda—have been working tirelessly to keep everything running smoothly, and we are deeply grateful for their dedication. We also want to extend our thanks to our building staff—Luis, Nelson, and Diego—whose hard work and commitment have been instrumental during this transition.
We are actively working on recruiting a new Executive Director and will keep the congregation updated on our progress. Thank you for your support and patience during this time.
AMANDA CHASE Membership Engagement & Communications Manager
LYNN POKORNY Administrative Manager
JOANNE FOLGER Assistant to Clergy
Kids Love Passover
BY SARA GAYNES LEVY
Afew months ago, another parent told me they had been volunteering in my daughter’s elementary school library and overheard my child ask the school librarian for a “Passover book.” This happened in October—nowhere near the holiday in question. I asked my daughter why she wanted to check out a Passover book in the fall. “It’s my favorite holiday,” she said matter-of-factly. “It has the best story.”
After she said that, I realized Passover is absolutely the most-talked about holiday in our house, because of the vividness of the story. I have a 2-minute and 48-second video on my phone of my middle child telling me the Passover story at only two-and-a-half. (She got it mostly right, including her observation that Pharaoh found “Baby Moses in the bassthet, in the Wiver Nile” and that Pharaoh said “No, no no, I will not let them go!”)
With Passover once again on the horizon, and our kids’ favorite holiday back in the rotation of daily topics of conversation, I decided to see what other children remember about the Passover story, or what they like most about it. Susan Bernstein, co-director of TCS Preschool, helped me ask these questions back in February, when it had been nearly a year since the children last learned about or discussed the Passover story. It’s amazing to see how much they knew and could recall, too. While hardly a formal scientific experiment, their responses definitely strengthened my theory that if you know a Jewish preschooler (or a Jewish preschool graduate), there’s a good chance the holiday they know the most about might just be this one.
is
“The guy made everyone work, work, work.” - Cash, age 5
“I like the baby in the story.” -Emma, age 4
“My favorite is the taste of the matzah, and I like playing the hiding matzah game.” - Sid, age 4
“You eat matzah. I like to eat it with honey.” -Blake, age 3
“The plague, the Passover plague!” -Jordyn, age 4
“I like drinking four cups of wine. But when is Passover? Because I don’t want bubbly wine.” -Victoria, age 4 [Ed note: she means juice!]
“I think there is an egg?” -Mia, age 3 after party gave attendees a muchneeded chance to dance and have some fun!
“Pharaoh
mean!” -Mac, age 4
TCS Judaica Boutique
BY WENDY SCHAEFER & DIANA SUSSMAN Co-Chairs
Preparing for Seder and realize you need a Seder plate, matzah plate, matzah cover, or afikomen bag? Attending a Seder and need a nice gift? Check out our TCS Judaica Boutique. Not only does it carry Passover items, but it has a wide selection of items, predominantly from Israel, such as mezuzahs, kosher mezuzah scrolls, Shabbat candlesticks, kiddush cups, challah cutting boards, and more. Some of our Passover items are shown here.
The Boutique’s merchandise can be purchased online or in person. For more information, stop in the TCS office or email tcs@tcs-westport.org.
A FROZEN SHABBAT
BY DIANA SUSSMAN
TCS embraced winter with a "Frozen Shabbat" featuring Frozen inspired art projects. Using colored sand, large snowflake cutouts, and rollers to apply white, blue, and purple paint, the children created 3D collages celebrating a winter wonderland. Despite the frosty concept, everyone at the well-attended event had a warm and wonderful time.
Emanuel Seder Plate
Ceramic Seder Plate
Silver Matzah Plate
Passover Activities Matzah Plate
Preschool Patter
BY LAURAN PANCOAST Director of Early Childhood, Preschool Programming & Operations
SUSAN BERNSTEIN Director of Early Childhood, Education & Curriculum
The winter season slowly made its exit, and we are slowly but surely tipping back towards the sun. What a winter season it was! With large amounts of snow, our preschool teachers took every chance they had to provide children with opportunities to explore, have adventures, and just play in the snow. Self-help skills skyrocketed as the children prepared to go outside, putting on boots and snow pants, flipping and zipping coats, and finding finger holes for each finger in their gloves or mittens. The children were building muscle strength, coordination, and balance as they trudged up the TCS hill before heading down on
sleds or on their bellies! The warmer weather, however, will soon allow for even more time outdoors, where we will continue to play, learn and explore our natural environment.
Over the last few weeks, it has been a joy to watch the children immerse themselves in the Purim and Passover curriculum. This year the teachers worked together and with the class to bring out the “Big Ideas” of these holidays in ways that resonated with the children. We were thrilled to see their curiosity alive and engaged as the classes shared what they already knew, and what they were interested in learning about. For Purim, our classroom activities, as well as the interactive "Purim Parade” experiences helped to make
these holidays come alive and allowed for the opportunity to learn through active participation and role-playing. Throughout the holiday, the children explored the fun of dress up and costume, learned about strong character traits like bravery and kindness and participated in activities of storytelling. As a special treat, Tibi worked with each class making delicious hamantaschen cookies which the children gave in mishloach manot bags to various staff members in the building.
Throughout the school year we welcome the opportunity for cross-grade learning allowing siblings, cousins, and friends that are “family” to learn and play together. These times included holiday singalongs and shared center time activities, with invitations for play that were open-ended, allowing children of any preschool age to enjoy. Classes looked forward to welcoming other children into their learning space and practiced what it means to be a gracious host as they explored the big ideas of Passover together. Each grade also participated in a project to culminate their exploration of this holiday. Our two-year-old classes
created a matzah cover, the three-yearolds made pillows to recline on at the seder and the pre-kindergarten children each created their own Haggadah, allowing them to actively participate in making the pages with hands-on artwork, storytelling and photographs. The prekindergarten children will also participate in a family seder plate making workshop with an opportunity to welcome in a special guest to help them decorate a plate to be used at their family seder for years to come. We will look forward to this TCS tradition yearly.
Wishing all our families a Chag Sameach!
All dressed up for Purim
Puppets act out the story of Purim
Cantor Gedalaia Penner-Robinson
AROUND THE SHUL : KEHILLAH CORNER
Kehillah Corner
BY SETH MARION Director of Education
TCS held another fantastic Purim Carnival this year! More than 100 families came together to celebrate the holiday, filling our synagogue with laughter, joy, and fun.
Seeing the colorful costumes, playing lively games, and of course hearing the Megillah, always creates an electric atmosphere. The excitement was palpable as children played the games, raced through the inflatable obstacle course, enjoyed delicious treats, and showed off their costumes!
As the children played, adults at the Purim Carnival celebrated together. Whether catching up with old friends or making new ones, all experienced the warmth and community that truly embodied the spirit of Purim and TCS.
None of this would have been possible without the team who planned the day— including folks from the Kehillah and Preschool Committees and staff, the facilities team and our volunteers. Thank you to all of you for making this event a huge success!
Purim fun
Enjoying Purim with friends
The TCS Purim Carnival was very well attended
FEATURES : HEBREW CORNER
Hebrew Corner—Pina L'Ivrit
BY JUDY GREENBERG
This new column features fun trivia about a Hebrew word or phrase. Enjoy!
"B'sorot Tovot"
In the current difficult period during which hostages continue to languish (and worse) in Gaza and soldiers die as Israel fights wars on multiple fronts, a new-old phrase has replaced the way Israelis say goodbye. In place of the typical "OK, Bye" and "Ciao," Israelis very often end their conversations now with b'sorot tovot.
B'sorot tovot literally means "good news" or "good tidings", and is a way of expressing the hope that good news will soon replace all the bad news. Due to its popularity, the phrase became the "Hebrew Language's Expression of the Year" in 2023. (See Philologos in Mosaic, Nov. 30, 2023: https://mosaicmagazine.com/observation/history-ideas/2023/11/the-hebrew-languages-expression-of-the-year.)
If this phrase sounds familiar it is because it is taken from the Birkat Ha-Mazon, the Grace After Meals. It appears about twothirds of the way into the prayer:
Translation: May the Merciful One send us Elijah the prophet, may he be remembered for good, and let him bring us good tidings, deliverance, and comfort.
Thus, if someone wishes you feel free to respond with (yishuot vinehamot) which means salvation and comfort.
The Mosaic Needs You!
We need writers, proofers, and ideas. Please tell us if you have a new idea for a column or an article.
Do you know a TCS Member who has done something you think deserves highlighting? Tell us! We are always looking to spotlight the achievements of our fellow members.
Are you a cook? Would you like to share some holiday recipes? Please do!
Have you had an experience recently that introduced you to some interesting facts about Judaism? Please share.
Do you have any ideas of events you would like to see TCS offer? Let us know!
We want to know what you are thinking and appreciate your help. Please contact us at EditorialBoardforTCS@gmail.com.
The Mosaic
AROUND THE SHUL : B'NEI MITZVAH
Mazal Tov To Our B'nei Mitzvah
LAILA HERRERA May 3 —Tazria-Metzora
MAE SLOSSBERG May 10 —Aharei Mot-Kedoshim
ABBY RAND May 17—Emor
UMANSKY June 7—Naso
SYDNEY MATTHEWS June 14 —Beha'alotkha
JULIANA
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FEATURE : HOLIDAY RECIPES
What’s Cooking?
BY JONI USDAN
Life Beyond Matzah Brei and Macaroons
Passover fare, the original "flourless" meal, naturally lends itself to great low-carb, gluten free ("GF"), and dairy-free options. So, cooking for a gluten-sensitive crowd may not necessitate much substitution.
In fact, many of the traditional KP packaged goods are made with potato starch, coconut and/or almond flours, making them GF. These goods were not labeled GF until manufacturers sought to attract the growing celiac and foodsensitive crowd.
Nonetheless, these KP products are not particularly healthful, as most have heavily-processed oils, loads of sugar and artificial color. A healthier approach follows the Mediterranean and Keto influences that have pushed Passover cooking to be less matzah-meal centric, and more veg-forward.
This healthier style of cooking uses gorgeous fresh produce; less salt; more flavors, spices, nuts, and citrus; and a good EVOO or other high-quality unrefined oil. These fragrant and flavorful natural ingredients work well with diet sensitivities or allergies and satisfy even the most hard-to-please Ashkenazi or Sephardi guest.
To easily prepare these interesting and healthy meals that honor Jewish tradition and the rules of kashrut, here are some GF cooking pro tips:
• Guests are largely unfazed by GF fare unless it is announced, so serve everyone GF fare and don't raise it. For example, you COULD make two pots of matzah balls, one that is GF and one that is not. Or, you can just offer the GF variety in their soup. The GF mixes are totally fool-proof, readily available, and delicious. No one will be disappointed, guaranteed.
• For breading, instead of matzah meal use ground almonds seasoned generously with salt & pepper, dried parsley, onion, garlic powder, paprika, or any other spices you like, as well as some lemon zest. Add a touch of oil before breading. Regardless of whether you use an egg dip or not, this works beautifully for roasted or baked chicken, fish, vegetables, and even mozzarella sticks.
Citrus Horseradish Flanken (or Brisket) Roast
Need a meat entree with a twist?
@sara_lasry Serves 8-10
Ingredients
3.5 lbs boneless flanken or brisket
¼ cup oil
2-3 red onions sliced
1-2 large leeks sliced
1 large onion, sliced 10-15 cloves garlic
For spices and rub:
2 Tbsp rosemary
2 Tbsp sweet paprika
2 Tbsp parsley
1 Tbsp tarragon
2 tsp minced onion
2-3 tsp salt
2 tsp black pepper
2 Tbsp dark brown sugar
2 large oranges, zest and juice
1 jar of beet horseradish
The Method
Pre-heat oven to 225 F.
Let flanken or brisket rest for 30 minutes on counter.
Mix the oil, onions, leek, garlic and half of the spices and sugar.
Put onion mixture on the bottom of a good roasting pot.
Zest and squeeze juice from one orange. Sprinkle zest and juice on onion mixture.
Mix the remaining spices.
Rub a little oil and spices onto meat.
Lay roast on top of the onion mixture.
Zest and squeeze juice from other orange.
Sprinkle zest and juice on meat.
Fully cover top of meat with horseradish.
Cover tightly with foil and cook for about 6.5 hours.
Remove and let rest for 20 min before slicing and serve.
*Note: This recipe reheats and freezes well. Makes great leftovers.
Charoset: It's
a Regional Affair
@marksoffmadison
Do you know what makes charoset Ashkenazi or Sephardi? Jews from Eastern Europe typically create their mud-like mixture from apples, walnuts and wine, while Sephardic traditionalists use soaked or stewed dried fruits (dates, figs, prunes, raisins). Some Sephardic recipes also include citrus and spices. Either way, both blend their ingredients until the mixture becomes a thick paste.
Here’s a traditional Roman recipe brought to the United States by Mark Strausman, a well known chef and owner of Mark’s Off Madison. No matter how large your Seder, this recipe provides more than enough to enjoy with your matzah all week long.
Ingredients
24 figs
24 pitted dates
4 oranges
8 prunes
4 blood oranges (or regular oranges)
1 lemon
¼ cup fresh grated ginger
1 cup walnuts
1 cup almonds
¼ cup sugar
Pinch nutmeg
Pinch cinnamon
A few drops of sweet wine to aid in the processing
The Method
Mix all ingredients until it forms a thick paste, resembling mortar.
FEATURE : PREPPING FOR
Beetroot “Burgers”
buildingfeasts.com Serves 4
Ingredients
For the Beetroot Burgers
14 oz beetroot (approximately 4 medium), 5.5 oz carrots (approximately 3 medium),
2 shallots or 1 banana shallot, finely chopped
4 Tbsp (1 bunch) dill finely chopped
2Tbsp (1/2 bunch) parsley finely chopped
2Tbsp (1/2 bunch) corriander finely chopped
3.5 oz crumbled feta (preferably sheep’s)
2 Tbsp plain matzah meal
2 large eggs salt and pepper
2 Tbsp rapeseed oil (or other flavourless oil)
For the Sauce
7 oz creme fraiche (or Greek yogurt)
2 spring onions (scallions) finely sliced
2 Tbsp (1/2 bunch) chopped dill
1 Tbsp olive oil salt and pepper
The Method
Preheat oven to 350F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Grate the beetroot and carrots. Do them separately so that the carrots retain some of their colour.
Put them in a doubled kitchen towel (to avoid staining your tea towels) and wring out all the excess liquid.
In a large bowl combine all ingredients apart from the rapeseed oil and combine.
To make the sauce, combine all ingredients together and mix.
Heat 1 Tbsp of rapeseed oil in a frying pan, and form burgers in your hands.
Seal patties in 2 batches on medium heat on both sides until slightly crisp. Transfer to baking sheet and cook a further 15 minutes until cooked through.
Serve on a bed of greens with the sauce and a slice of lemon.
These keep for weeks.
Need Dessert? Try These Bites Orange Almond Drop Cookies
@sarah_lasry 1 dozen
Ingredients
2 large eggs (whites only)
6 oz sliced almonds
¼ cup sugar (more if you like very sweet)
Zest from 1 whole orange Cooking spray
The Method
Preheat oven to 350F.
Combine ingredients in a bowl.
Drop onto a parchment lined baking sheet. *
Spray tops.
Bake 10-11 minutes.
Let cool completely.
*Variations
• Bake directly on baking sheet if you like crisper cookies.
• Bake in muffin tins instead of on cookie sheet.
• For a more chocolatey version, pour melted chocolate on top of cooled cookie and freeze for 40 min.
Calling all Chocoholics: Easy Chocolate “Mixin” Bark -
Perfect for gluten free, dairy-free, parve, vegetarian and vegan guests
Ingredients
1 cup of dark chocolate chips
1 tsp of coconut or vegetable oil
Marshmallows
Nuts
Dried fruit
Crumbled cookies
Crumbled candies
The Method
Melt chocolate chips with coconut or veg oil in the microwave or double boiler.
Spread on a baking sheet lined with parchment.
Sprinkle other ingredients on chocolate. Be creative about what you put on.
Freeze for 1 hour.
Break up and enjoy.
Easy to prepare flourless cakes, puddings and mousses always lend themselves for your pre-Afikoman spread, especially when served with piles of fresh fruit and sorbet. While boxed cakes and candies may wind up on your seder table, here is a fun and quick recipe that satisfy many different dietary restrictions.
Classic And Elegant Chocolate Mousse Pie
This fabulous flourless seder dessert has been passed down through the generations.
@baked.by.batya Serves 10-12
This was her mom's recipe. Its origin is unknown.
Ingredients
8 oz chocolate
8 eggs, separated
2 Tbsp coffee powder, diluted in 1/4 cup of hot water
1/8 cup brandy or liquor (optional)
1 pkg vanilla sugar ¾ cup of sugar
The Method
Melt chocolate in double boiler.
Combine egg yolks, coffee, brandy, and vanilla sugar.
Mix into melted chocolate.
Beat egg whites and sugar until stiff.
Carefully fold chocolate into whites.
Pour 1⁄3 of the mixture into a 9” springform pan and bake at 350F for 20 minutes.
Refrigerate the rest of the mixture.
Once the baked pie is cooled, pour remaining mixture on top and freeze.
Spotlight on Arthur & Ellen Gang
BY JONI USDAN
Anyone who knows Arthur and Ellen Gang recognizes their creativity, generosity, and productivity, and can appreciate their many contributions to the TCS community over the last three decades. These vibrant members of the congregation feel being part of TCS has been the "secret sauce" that always brought them closer to their family and "their Jewishness,” but also provides a wellspring of opportunity to contribute in ways they love.
Born and raised in Brooklyn, they moved their family to Westport from Manhattan’s Upper West Side in 1991. In addition to thoughtful leadership and participation in synagogue life in the "usual ways," the Gangs have generously contributed in many unusual, impactful ways by employing their rare musical and artistic talents to both the synagogue and the Jewish community.
Modest to a fault, Art and Ellen try to downplay the importance of their "value adds." With a wave of her hand, Ellen insists “this is just stuff Artie and I know how to do…what we’re comfortable doing…and if it helps the synagogue, it makes us happy.”
The Gangs describe the home where they raised their three children as a household always filled with “makers”—of music, and art projects of all kinds—for themselves, their friends and relatives. “Our family’s devotion to music and the arts was the way we bonded,” says Ellen. “It also deepened our connection to our community.” Both Gangs hold a special place in their hearts for the TCS’ more intimate “B’nai Baskin-Robbins days,” our congregation’s formative years in the small office suite above the ice cream shop. Since joining, their enthusiasm and devotion has been unflagging.
Art, who retired from practicing law after a 40 year career and earned a master's degree since retiring, has worn many hats (a few on Purim). He has served as TCS’ artistic/literary impresario, piano maestro/ accompanist, and Jewish music and culture connoisseur/consultant. Art has also served the larger community through volunteering, committee work, teaching, and providing leadership. For example, he is the president of The Fairfield County Choir, a group that he has participated in for years as a singer. In short, Art continues to organize and compose musical programming, write lyrics, and serve in all capacities relating to his four greatest loves (beside Ellen, his children and grandchildren): music, history, literature, and verse.
Though the words "collaborative genius" would never pass Art’s lips to describe his TCS involvement, this is indeed what Art has delivered for decades. He has organized or assisted with countless synagogue programs for every age group, including concerts, commemorations, and celebrations.
Working closely for over 20 years with Joan Merlis, our distinguished, well-loved former TCS Chorale director, this gifted pianist utilized his rare ability to play/change up virtually anything by ear, including changing keys during accompaniment. (If you know you know!) Chorale members thought of Merlis and Gang as "The Dynamic Duo."
Fond of writing original lyrics and celebrating all things musical and Jewish, Art has composed, directed, and produced (even starred in—if pressed) an oeuvre of more than fifteen ingenious, original Purim Spiels. These Spiels show his extensive knowledge of Broadway show-tunes.
He found organizing a Kristallnacht event to have been particularly meaningful for him. To do so, he had to research music written during the Shoah by camp inmates. This moving event paired his loves for both music and history.
Given his love of learning, it is not surprising that Art served as the Adult Education Co-chair for multiple terms. In this capacity he arranged many literary events, including programs and panels featuring authors and poets. In short, Art has been a tour de force in shaping our synagogue’s cultural identity.
Ellen, on the other hand, has been our inhouse designer, restorer, curator, and consultant. She has lent her rich and varied design and fabric arts talents wherever necessary. You see her work and influence in objects commemorating Jewish ritual or life cycle events in our sanctuary and gift shop, as well as in members’ homes and private collections. Over the decades, whenever solutions were needed for some unusual practical and artistic needs, Ellen has always come to the rescue, with needle, thread and all manner of improvised tools in hand. Few are aware of her diligent toil late at night behind the scenes on all that “stuff” she just knows how to do.
An award-winning designer, Ellen is modest about her many accolades. Her designs have been featured in the New York Times fashion section, Women’s Wear Daily, and fine art galleries. A noted professor at the Fashion Institute of Technology and Sacred Heart University, she loves to share her knowledge and experience in art and the business of fashion. Like her husband, Ellen also earned a master's degree. This born designer began her career on Fashion Avenue and spent twenty-five years in trend-driven childrenswear.
This respected industry consultant and published author founded "The Ellen Gang Studio" in 1999, which is home today to our area’s best-known immersive after school fashion study and summer camp. It is also where Ellen has woven together (literally) her passion and knowledge of fabric arts with Jewish tradition and deeply committed personal heritage.
Ellen’s distinguished fabric works of art include handmade chuppot and tallitot of original design, TCS High Holy Days reading table adornment, and even the commemorative Torah mantel for the
Former TCS President Eric Baron, Bob Israely, and Art Gang
Art & Ellen Gang
Ellen Gang teaching
Holocaust-rescued Torah scroll. Passionate about “passing down the stories and love from past generations,” Ellen’s studio housed “Once Upon A Pillow,” where she hand-crafted critically-recognized, bespoke memory pillows and tallitot, incorporating vintage photographic material into textiles.
A past TCS board trustee and volunteer on numerous committees over the years, including Sisterhood, Mitzvah, College Connection, Social Action, and Education, Ellen has a frenetic work week shuttling between universities in Connecticut and New York and her studio, where she instructs tomorrow’s designers with innovative programming. She also curates and leads a yearly summer study-abroad program for Sacred Heart University students to Milan, to study in depth brand marketing in the Italian fashion capital.
Pre-Covid, Ellen devised inspiration trips with her young campers to New York’s fashion epicenter, offering rare glimpses of 7th Avenue workrooms, visits to Seventeen and Teen Vogue Magazine, and even behind the scenes tours of filming Kleinfeld’s Say Yes to the Dress. Due to her efforts, Ellen
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5
has developed a cult-like following among her past and current students.
Ellen has always managed to weave Tikkun Olam into their fashion activities. For instance, each year culminates in a fullscale fashion show benefitting a charity, like Rach’s Hope. This charity was created in memory of one of Ellen’s brilliant young fashion students.
Lately, Art and Ellen try hard to fit in travel. They regularly visit California to see their three children, Joanna (and Joanna's husband Kent and children Asher and Ezra), Josh, and Julia. In celebration of their mutual love and appreciation of Jewish history and culture, they
also try to visit Jewish heritage sites as often as possible. They find these trips particularly meaningful. Not suprisingly, Art was one of the first to sign up for TCS post-October 7 Israel mission. The Gangs also greatly enjoyed the TCS trip to South America.
Ellen remains an exemplary daughter and overall cheerleader to her extremely active-for-a-centenarian WWII-veteran dad, Jesse Schraub. Still a board member at Kingsway Jewish Center in Brooklyn, Jesse was also a pillar of that community for over 60 years. Her dad spoke movingly to a huge crowd at a TCS Veteran’s Day celebration, where he provided a rare opportunity for congregants and their children to hear from an observant Jewish American WWII soldier who fought in the Battle of the Bulge and witnessed the Nazi atrocities first-hand.
Stop by and say hello if you see Art and Ellen Gang around 30 Hillspoint Road. The love, dedication, and respect they continually show each other and their extended TCS family is inspiring. If you are lucky, you may catch one or both sometime soon, doing “some stuff” they know how to do, but do not expect to catch either one standing still.
1: Installation: TCS President Marc Zuckerman, Michelle Scher Saunders, Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson
2: Installation: Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson, Rabbi Mencahem Penner 3: Steven Saunders, Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson
4: Installation: TCS Congregation
5: Installation: TCS Congregation
Art & Ellen Gang holding their granchild
Dad's Special Birthday Gift, A Baby Boy
BY NANI TIBI
Ijust returned from attending my father’s one year memorial, or as they call it here “Yahrtzeit." He would have turned 95 on February 28th. It was my third trip to Israel since this war began.
After meeting with my friends and family and speaking with the children—my nephews, grandnephews, and kids in the neighborhood—I discovered that they all felt the same way we did when the Arabs attacked Israel sixty years ago. Back then, we did not have the Iron Dome to protect us or shelters in every house. However, as the story I am about to share with you shows, our “Israeli" attitude toward life, has not changed much.
It all started about a year before, late in the spring of 1967, we had just returned from the town's public swimming pool. The sixth grade teacher led us to the gym building for an assembly.
"What's all this about?" Ruti asked.
"It's probably about our swimming lessons, you saw how Uri pushed Tanya into the deep water and she didn't know how to swim," Nehama answered. Uri was a tall boy whose father was in jail for attempted murder of his wife's lover.
I looked forward to those lessons. I loved the water and Mom promised me that when I learned how to swim well in deep water, she'd let me go with my friends to the beach unsupervised.
"Quiet everyone!” The school principal yelled, "Quiet!" The whole school was there, even the little kids from the special first grade.
"We are gathered here today for a very important reason, so I want everybody to cooperate and pay attention. There is a possibility that Israel will be going to war. As you, know the Arab nations surround us..."
"This time they won't escape!" I whispered to Sarah Markovich. Sarah and I shared the desk for the last two years. She kept me in line most of the time.
"Is there something you want to share with us, young boy?" The principal looked directly at me.
"Who me?" I said, wondering how he heard me. "No sorry."
"There is a possibility that the Arabs will penetrate our borders and send planes to
bomb our towns. To be prepared, we must practice emergency drills. You will hear the school's bell ringing intermittently. This will be the sign to get up and without talking, including you, young boy . . . "
Again, he was looking at me, I hated it when people call me "young boy."
"You will walk, not run, to the underground shelter under the nature science building," the principal continued. "Each class has a designated a spot. Once you reach your area, sit quietly and wait for instructions, as if your teacher was with you. In the case of a real emergency, you will hear the same siren and react as we have practiced. You will quietly walk to your assigned places, sit, and wait for instructions."
No one expected that kind of talk. After walking to our shelters, we returned to our classrooms, where we taped windows. Our teacher explained, "When you get home you should tape the windows like we did in class. At night dim all the lights."
"But if we dim the lights, how will we be able to see?" Sarah asked.
"It will be hard," the teacher agreed. "But the idea is to dim the light so airplanes will not see us at night. Even car lights will have to be painted, leaving only a thin opening for the light to show. We will all just have to be more careful."
I couldn't believe what I was hearing. No one said anything. Maybe they were as shocked as me.
After a moment of silence, the teacher added, "I'm sure that your neighbors will be digging trenches to shelter in if there is an attack. They will need your help since most of the men have already left for the army."
"And what about our swimming lessons?" the big boy who was held back asked. "Yes, what about our swimming lessons?" Sarah Mimon repeated.
The teacher thought for a moment and said, "Your swimming instructors are now serving in the army, like most of the other men in Israel. When this is over, they'll be back and your swim lessons will resume."
When I got home that afternoon, Mom was waiting for me with a shovel. "Your brother is helping the neighbors dig a trench. Roni Halali brought sandbags from his dad's store. Your job is to fill them with
the dirt that the older boys dig up. So, hurry up, finish your lunch, and go help."
The young men were drafted to serve on the border and the middle-aged men, including my dad who was a medic, were assigned to local defense. It was up to us boys to defend our neighborhood.
Given our homes were built a long time ago, when aerial attacks were not anticipated, most did not have a shelter or a basement. Only a few new buildings had a shelter. So, we spent all day digging a large deep trench so everyone could fit and be safe.
That evening, we all sat outside our new shelter/trench. Mrs. Halali brought raspberry juice and a transistor radio, on which we listened for updates and instructions.
Next morning, as usual, Sarah Mimon was waiting for me at the corner next to her house to walk to school together. "Say, my dad had to go to the army today," she said. "How about your dad? Was he drafted?"
"Yes" I replied, "but he is in the local forces. He doesn't have to fight this time. He is a medic and will be at the Red Magen David station. But I'm worried because my Uncle Claude, was drafted yesterday morning and last night his wife entered the hospital to have a baby. I don't want to think about what will happen if he never comes back."
"He'll be back," she said. "The war didn't even start yet and we don't know if there will be war."
"You're right, we don't know. Oh, guess who was drafted today?" I continued.
"I don't know, who?"
"Moshe Kotler"
"Our teacher?"
"No, my mother!" I teased her. "I saw him this morning in uniforms boarding a bus."
"You're kidding. What will they do with us now? They sent us home early yesterday because the gym teacher was drafted."
"I don't know. I kind of like this war stuff maybe they'll cancel school altogether."
"Don't you wish," she said as we entered the classroom.
I sat next to Sarah Markovich and Sarah Mimon sat in her place at the back of the class. Right after our morning snack break at 10:00AM, the siren sounded.
The substitute teacher stood up. Her face paled and took on a worried expression. "Let's all get up quietly and walk to the shelter."
Our "shelter" was in our audio/visual auditorium, under the nature/biology center. We all sat at our designated areas. While some children were crying softly and some were whispering, overall it was extremely quiet. The principal didn't have to do his "quiet" routine.
"We will wait here until we hear the all-clear siren. Then we'll send you home." The principal announced, "Meanwhile we'll watch a movie."
We never saw the movie. The moment the lights went off, the all-clear siren sounded.
"School is now canceled," the principal announced when they turned on the lights. "Please listen to the radio to find out when we'll resume. Also, don't wander on your way home and stay in your neighborhood. We don't want anyone hurt."
I walked home with Sarah Mimon and Uri. Suddenly we heard a loud noise, and two jet fighter planes flew above us at a very low altitude. Uri broke into a run, yelling something that sounded like "Mom." Sarah grabbed my arm. I looked up. Then planes flew very fast, but I saw their blue and white markings. They were French made "Mirage" planes, my favorite Israeli planes because they looked just like the paper planes I made during English class.
"Don't worry" I said to Sarah Mimon, "they're ours, but I think we should hurry home anyway."
Again, Mom was waiting for me on the front lawn. "Dad was here earlier but he went back to his post. He said that there is nothing to worry about. But I can't help it, I always worry."
Just then the sirens sounded again. We all jumped into the trenches. A moment later the sirens sounded the "all clear."
"What is going on?" Uri asked.
"They sounded the 'all clear' so fast that we didn't even have a chance to get in the trenches," Rita "Chita" said.
"They stopped the Arabs' planes before they reached our air space," Bentzi said.
"Listen to this!" Gila Halali, my mother's friend, said while holding the transistor radio. "They shot down two hundred and fifty Arab war planes. Can you believe that?"
"Unbelievable!" Mom said.
Now another neighbor came out of her house. Her real name was Hana but we called her “Televisia" because she had an odd habit of yelling every time she opened her window. She also held a transistor radio and was listening to an Arab station. Hana Televisia was yelling and crying.
"Woo, woo, my God, they are coming, they are in Tel Aviv. We are all going to die. The Arabs are going to throw us all into the sea. Woo Woo..."
"Those chalalulus," Uri's mother said. "When will they to learn to speak Hebrew or at least listen to a Hebrew station?” Hana had just immigrated from Libya. Lucky for us, her older son came home, and comforted her by explaining that that news she'd heard was made-up propaganda by the Arabs countries to stir up chaos and panic in Israel.
That night, following the broadcasted instructions, we dimmed all the lights and kept a transistor radio with us.
“They are rolling barrels in the sky!” Rita Chita whispered as we heard the planes over head. As we all sat in the trench, I had to explain to Rita that you can’t actually roll barrels in the sky. It was a tactical move the Israelis used to scare the Arabs during the war of independence—rolling barrels down the hills.
For five days we all listened to the news every hour. The Radio played only Israeli music. New songs were written and new jokes composed, all highlighting the Israeli army's achievements.
The moment I found most memorable was one night when we all sat on the front lawn listening to the radio. The radio announcer sounded very excited. He was describing his steps and the soldiers' steps in the old city of Jerusalem. I felt a big lump in my throat, as he approached the Western Wall. As soon as he touched the Wailing Wall, a new song played—a song that became one of the most famous Israeli songs in the world. It was "Jerusalem of Gold" by Naomi Shemer. We had won.
The morale in Israel was very high. We felt invincible because we had the best pilots in the world and the best army. But then we realized the hard truth. Yes, we won the war, but at a very high price. Every family in Israel lost someone, whether it was a father, brother, or an uncle.
When the policeman knocked on our door, I knew who would never come back. Uncle Claude, Dad's youngest brother, the one whose wife had just had a baby, was in the first jeep entering the city of Gaza. That jeep had been hit by an antitank missile. It was horrible. I had never seen Dad cry before. We all cried. At the shiva at Meme's house, Mom promised that she was going to bring Uncle Claude back. For a while I didn't know what that meant. But when I saw Mom’s belly growing, I knew. I was going to have a new brother.
Like today, despite hardship and loss, Israelis remain resilient and look toward the future with hope.
TCS Thanks Its Donors, Doers & Daveners
Adult Education Fund
Susan Ochman in memory of Ivan Eisenstadt z”l
Barbara Backlar Reis in memory of Sylvia Backlar z”l
Randi Schwartz in memory of Renee Rubin z”l
Building/Security Fund
Hilary & Jonathan Gerber in memory of Bob Frost z”l
Barbara & Richard Greenspan in memory of Mazie Greenspan z”l
Isabel & Stephen Moskowitz in memory of Bob Frost z”l
Beth & Jay Rand in memory of:
• Stephen Greenfield z”l
• Lloyd Greenspan z”l
• Jack Schlegel z”l
The Tapfar Family in memory of:
• Meyer Gorelick z”l
• Greg Tapfar z”l
Cantor’s Discretionary Fund
Alyssa & Jacob Axel in appreciation of Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson
Karen & Ira Bloom in memory of Leo Bloom z”l
Ellen Friedman in honor of the installation of Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson
Ilene & Alan Frost in honor of Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson
Ellen & Art Gang in honor of Danielle and Joan Merlis
Jennifer & Jordan Kanfer in honor of the installation of Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson
Denise Lewis and family in memory of Polly Wachtenheim z”l
Susan & Murray Morrison in honor of the installation of Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson
Isabel & Stephen Moskowitz in memory of Miriam Moskowitz z”l
Susan Ochman in honor of Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson’s
Cantorial Installation at TCS
Alli & Jon Olefson in honor of Sydney becoming a bat mitzvah
Susan J. Schwartz in appreciation of Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson and the TCS community
David & Marcie Slepian in memory of Leo Bloom z”l
Nicole Wilson-Spiro & Michael Spiro in memory of Rhonda Spiro z”l
David Young & Pamela Schneider in appreciation of Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson
Dolores Gordon Music Fund
Martha Rosenfeld in memory of:
• Martin Rosenfeld z”l
• Reuben Rosenfeld z”l
General Fund
Jamey Altman in memory of Bob Frost z”l
Jan & Judy Berman in memory of Joel Berman z”l
Elisabeth Boas & Arthur Spitzer
Sara Crisafulli in honor of Howard Feuer z”l
Howard Edelstein & Lisa Weitzman in honor of their children and grandchildren
Ellen Friedman in memory of Bryan Wahler z”l
Alan & Ilene Frost in honor of Julia Marx and Andy Genser for their generous hospitality
Stephanie Schneider Ghosn & Shayna Love Harlan in memory of Bob Frost z”l
Monique & Phil Greenspan in memory of:
• Herbert Felsenfeld, M.D., Ph.D. z”l
• Barry Gross z”l
Abby & Scott Greenspun in memory of Julian Greenspun z”l
Eileen Gress in memory of Claire Gress z”l
Bathsheva Rifkin & Howard Hochster
Brian Kabcenell
The Kaplowitz Family and Henry in memory of Salman Nahum z”l
Robin Levy & James Weisz in memory of Lester M. Levy z”l
Cynthia Lieberbaum in memory of Louis Lieberbaum z”l
Sandy & Mark Rappaport in memory of:
• Larry Braunstein z”l
• Kenneth Feldman z”l
Helane & Aaron Rheingold in memory of Dr. Robert W. Felsenfeld z”l
Kim & Mark Shapiro
Cynthia Singer in honor of Diane & Frank Safran’s 60th
wedding anniversary
Sue & Cliff Sirlin in memory of Renee Rubin z”l
Linda & Martin Stein in memory of Dr. Herbert Felsenfeld z”l
Gail & Robert Storm in memory of:
• Benjamin Chipman z”l
• Sylvia Chipman z”l
• Bernard Storm z”l
Lori & Parker Weil in memory of Bob Frost z”l
The Weisenfeld family in memory of Barry Gross z”l
Fred & Sherry Wiener in memory of:
• Abe Russakoff z”l
• Benjamin Wiener z”l
Holocaust Education Fund
Barbara Levi-Berliner & Ed Berliner in memory of Ludwig Levi z”l
Cynthia & Hyman Cohen in memory of Burton Baraz z”l
Susan Drossman & Adam Sokoloff and family in memory of Bob Frost z”l
Hospitality Fund
David & Gwen Baker in memory of Lolita Baker z”l
Ellen & Art Gang
Stacy & Jon Kamisar
Linda & Len Russ in memory of:
• Bob Frost z”l
• Donald Hodes z”l
• Bryan Wahler z”l
Jewish Cultural Arts Fund
Aliza Gross in memory of Barry Gross z”l
Kehillah School Fund
Susan & Lew Abramson in honor of Chloe Axel becoming a bat mitzvah
Ellen Friedman in memory of:
• Ovadia Catriel z”l
• Ken Marion z”l
• Salman Nahum z”l
• Dorothy Sudranski z”l
Sally & Jonathan Potter in memory of:
• Rita Ackerman Felsenfeld z”l
• Barry Gross z”l
The Rosman family in memory of Ovadia Catriel z”l
Julie Tolkin in memory of Salman Nahum z”l
Library Fund
Courtney, Alexa, Robin & Barry Babbin in memory of Mona Gabry z”l
Music Fund
Ellen & Arthur Gang in appreciation of the beautiful Installation ceremony of Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson
Janet & Tim Rogers in memory of Bob Frost z”l
Peter R. Lessler Scholarship Fund
Ellen & Art Gang in memory of Barry Gross z”l
Karen Lessler & Jack Schwartz in memory of Daniel Weckstein z”l
Preschool Fund
The Monday/Wednesday Tiny Twos Class in memory of Salman Nahum z”l
Ana & Steven White, Jennifer & Jason
White and family in memory of Ovadia Catriel z”l
Prayer Book & Chumash Fund
Nancy Gold in memory of:
• Barry Ilberman z”l
• Gloria Ilberman z”l
Amy F. Leveen in honor of Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson and in appreciation for receiving an Aliyah at services
Amy & Howard Matson in memory of Donald Hodes z”l
Susan Ochman in memory of Bryan Wahler z”l
Eric Schwartz in appreciation of TCS
Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund
Alyssa & Jacob Axel in appreciation of Rabbi Wiederhorn
The Blumenfeld Family in memory of:
• Bob Frost z”l
• Stephen Greenfield z”l
• Lloyd Greenspan z”l
• Donald Hodes z”l
Susie Blumenfeld in honor of the bar mitzvah of Michael Vassilev
David Cohen
Karen Cohen in memory of:
• Martin Cohen z”l
• Jules Sturtz z”l
Matthew Evans
Ellen Graff & Martin Fox in appreciation of Rabbi Wiederhorn officiating at Sarah and Eric’s wedding
Lauri & Michael Friedland in memory of Rhoda Friedland z”l
Ellen & Art Gang in honor of:
• Cynthia Bannon
• Charlotte Rose and the Rose & Russ families
Ellen & Art Gang in memory of:
• Bob Frost z”l
• Hyman Gang z”l
• Jeanette Gang z”l
Ellen & Art Gang in support of the LA fires relief efforts
Helene & Richard Glass in memory of Stephen Byer z”l
Annette & Jon Goldstein in honor of Stephen & Lynne Goldstein and family
Linda & Michael Gordon in memory of Barry Gross z”l
Richard M. Kesselman Certified Public Accountant
Barbara & Richard Greenspan in memory of Mazie Greenspan z”l
Jodi & Michael Honig in memory of Stephen Greenfield z”l
Jennifer & Jordan Kanfer in memory of:
• Bob Frost z”l
• Norman Kanfer z”l
The Kalt Family in memory of:
• Charles A. Kalt z”l
• Charles D. Kalt z”l
• Louis V. Martin z”l
Jenna & Brett Kaplan in honor of the baby naming of Harlow Kaplan
Marji & Rich Kaplowitz in memory of:
• Stephen Greenfield z”l
• Ike Kaplowitz z”l
Judith Katz in memory of Mel Katz z”l
Jillian & Anthony Klaff in memory of Jack Klaff z”l
Judi Koffsky in memory of:
• Jay Brightman z”l
• Miriam Brightman z”l
Laurence Kurzner in memory of Dr. Martin M. Kurzner z”l
Steve Lance, Max Schweid, Daniel Schweid in memory of Carole Schweid z”l
Stewart & Elisabeth Levine in memory of:
• Jay Clement z”l
• Ken Marion z”l
Denise Lewis & family in memory of Polly Wachtenheim z”l
Robin & Matt Leon in memory of Stephen Greenfield z”l
Susan & Murray Morrison in memory of:
• Bob Frost z”l
• Abraham Kobren z”l
• Benjamin Gerald Morrison z”l
Jodie & Lee Mysel in memory of Stephen Greenfield z”l
Jon & Alli Olefson in honor of Sydney becoming a bat mitzvah
Tal & Marcy Oren
Barbara & Alan Radin in memory of Sanford Shaffer z”l
Michelle Rose in honor of the baby naming of Charlotte Lucia Rose
Lisa & Robert Rowan in memory of:
• Bob Frost z”l
• Stephen Greenfield z”l
Dana & Dan Russ in honor of Charlie’s simhat bat
Marcy Schneider in memory of Bob Frost z”l
Nicole Wilson-Spiro & Michael Spiro in memory of Rhonda Spiro z”l
Buffy Strober in memory of
Stephen Greenfield z”l
Shellie Tapfar in honor of
Rabbi Wiederhorn for officiating at the baby naming of Rory Dill
The Udell Family in memory of Bob Frost z”l
The Waller Family in memory of:
• Henry Dreznick z”l
• Rachelle Dreznick z”l
• Herbert Waller z”l
June Eichbaum & Ken Wirfel in memory of:
• Saree Eichbaum z”l
• Barbara Wirfel z”l
• Larry Wirfel z”l
Pamela Schneider & David Young in appreciation of Rabbi Wiederhorn
Sisterhood – Shalom Baby
Wendy & Philip Schaefer in honor of the birth of:
• Jack Tate Schneider
• Archer Zev Schwartz
Tikkun Olam Fund
Susan & Matthew Byer in memory of:
• Bob Frost z”l
• Donald Hodes z”l
The Porosoff Family in memory of Marion Newman z”l
Judy Udell in memory of:
• Nora Jacobs z”l
• Bryan Wahler z”l
USY/Kadima/Machar Fund
Marsha Shrago in memory of:
• Irving Funk z”l
• Harry Shrago z”l
This listing includes all contributions received by February 15, 2025. Contributions received after this date will appear in the next issue.
Laughter Is the Best Medicine
BY STEVE GLASBERG
So now this is “Laughter is the Best Medicine!” So I’d better tell doctor jokes.
OY!
I went to my doctor and said “Doc, you gotta help me! I feel tired, weak, run down. My social life stinks!”
My doctor said “Of course you’re tired, weak, run down and your social life stinks! Look at your physical condition! I want you to run fifteen miles a day for the next thirty days. Then call me up, and let me know how you’re doing.”
So I ran fifteen miles a day for the next thirty days. Then I called my doctor. I said “Doc, I don’t know how to thank you!!! I’ve been running fifteen miles a day for the past thirty days, and I feel young! I feel strong! I feel vigorous!”
“And your social life,” the doctor asked. “How is that going?”
I said “What social life??? I’m in Cleveland!”
OY!
In 2032, Mendel Cohen became the first elected Jewish President of the United States. He insisted that his mother attend his Inauguration.
She was seated in the front row of the Inauguration ceremony next to the Queen of England.
There came the time in the Inauguration when Mendel had to place his hand on the Bible to take the oath of office. At that point, Mendel’s mother puts her elbow in the Queen of England’s side.
“You see that boy up there? That’s my son.” Then she says very proudly “His brother is a doctor!
OY!
At a TCS kiddush, a doctor was standing chatting with a lawyer. A congregant came up to him and said “Doctor, can you possibly help me? My wrist hurts just so badly over here.”
The doctor gave the man instructions on how to treat his injured wrist. The man thanked him and walked away.
The doctor turned to the lawyer and said “You know, I should bill him for that!”
The lawyer said “Indeed you should!”
24 | The Mosaic
So the doctor billed the patient $150 for a consultation.
And the lawyer billed the doctor $300 for the consultation.
OY!
I went to my doctor and said “I think I’m coming down with arthritis.”
The doctor said “No. That’s early onset rigor mortis!”
OY!
I met a fairly good looking woman in the doctor’s office. So, I asked for her number.
She said it was 142 over 57.
OY!
The doctor asked me “How are you sleeping at night?”
I said “I sleep like a baby! I get up every two hours to take a leak!”
OY!
I went to my eye doctor. He said “Please read the third line of the eye chart.”
I said “What eye chart?”
OY!
TCS is delighted to announce that Weight Watchers of Westport will be meeting every Wednesday at 7:00 pm in the central meeting room of the synagogue.
Attendees should please use the double doors to the meeting room.
OY!
My daughter is a renowned psychologist. One day her receptionist came into her office and said “There’s a man in the waiting room who thinks he’s invisible.”
My daughter the psychologist said “Tell him I can’t see him right now.”
OY!
Another patient came in to see my daughter the psychologist. He said “Doctor, you gotta help me! No one will talk to me! No one will have anything to do with me!”
My daughter the psychologist said “NEXT!!!” OY!
Another patient came in to see my daughter the psychologist. He said “Please help me! I think I’m turning into a goat!”
My daughter the psychologist asked “How long have you felt this way?”
The patient said “Since I was a kid.” OY!
I went to the Audiologist for a hearing aid. The manager came over to help me and said “This here is our finest hearing aid. I use it myself. The electronics were made by NASA, so they could even hear people whispering on the street from their satellites up in the sky, Its $4,000."
I said, “Wow! Impressive. What kind is it?”
He said “It’s a quarter to three.” OY!
I went to the Audiologist for a hearing aid. The manager came over to help me and said “This here is our finest hearing aid. The electronics were made by NASA, so they could even hear people whispering on the street from their satellites up in the sky, Its $4,000. (Stop me if you heard this before!)"
I said “Do you have something cheaper?”
The manager pulled out a small box about the size of a cigarette package, with a wire sticking out of the side of the box. He said “This model is only two dollars.”
I asked “Well, how does it work?”
He replied “It doesn’t. You put the box in your shirt pocket and stick the wire in your ear. When people see it, they talk louder!” OY!
I went to my doctor and he gave me his terrible diagnosis. I said “I’d like a second opinion.”
The doctor said “Come back tomorrow.” OY!
I went to my dentist, and said “Doctor, my teeth are very yellow. What should I do?”
He said “Wear a brown tie.” OY!
I went to my doctor, and said “Tell me the truth! How am I doing?”
The doctor said “You’re doing fine! You’ll live to be 75.”
I said “But, doctor, I’m older than 75!”
The doctor said “Seeee?”
We are blessed to have been friends and neighbors with The Conservative Synagogue for so many years... and more to come!
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CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS
