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President Marc Zuckerman

Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn

Cantor

Gedalia Penner-Robinson

Executive Director

Cynthia Bannon

Editor-In-Chief

Diana Sussman

Assistant Editor-In-Chief

Elise Meyer

Senior Editor

Sara Gaynes Levy

Advertising Administrator

Michelle Scher Saunders

Editorial Board

Debbi Barer

Renee Mandis

Steve Samuels

Brad Zieve

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

In This Issue

TCS Scene

Check out what the TCS Members have been doing. A look at the past months in pictures.

Living Water

The magic of the Cantor's inaugural Kabbalat Shabbat at the beach.

16 Mazal Tov to our B’nei Mitzvah

Todah Rabah for Sponsoring

Blondinit: Israeli Food in Westport

The Mosaic wants to highlight TCS members. We want to hear your stories and see your pictures. Send them to the EditorialBoardforTCS@gmail.com. Also, let us know if you want to write a feature article. We welcome your input.

Let us know if you would prefer to read The Mosaic online only by contacting the office or by emailing EditorialBoardforTCS@gmail.com.

Finding a Way to Dance Through Tears

Dear Friends,

Communities around the world are grappling with how to observe Simchat Torah this year, and in the years to come, as it will forever be associated with the horrific events of October 7th. How can we possibly celebrate and dance with the Torah on the anniversary of the murder of 1200 of our brothers and sisters and the ruthless kidnapping of over 250 men, women, and children (103 remain in captivity as I write this)? And how can we not continue to dance? It is not easy.

One attempt to try to balance the reality of our pain with the celebration of the holiday is the Simchat Torah Project through Mizrachi, called “Dancing Through Tears.” TCS is one of over 300 communities participating in this effort by sponsoring a Torah cover that will recognize one of the 1200 souls lost on October 7th. Our Torah cover will remember Yoad Pe’er z”l.

Yoad was with his friends Hersh, Aner, and Adi at the Nova Festival on October 7th. They drove down together late the night before. When it became clear that an attack was underway, they found themselves in a cement bomb shelter on the side of the road. Hamas terrorists started tossing grenades into the bomb shelter where they were hiding. Seven times Aner tossed the grenades back at the terrorists outside the shelter. The eighth grenade unfortunately exploded inside the shelter and took the life of Aner. It probably also blew off the forearm of Hersh, who was later taken hostage, and ultimately executed by Hamas almost 11 months later. Yoad died either through an explosion or through gunfire into the shelter, but his body saved Adi’s life, as she hid underneath Yoad and played dead until it was safe to leave.

During our TCS mission to Israel in May, we met Leslie Kaufman, Adi’s mother. We traveled together down to the site of the Nova Festival and shelter where Adi and her friends were hiding. Inside, Leslie lit a candle for Aner z”l and Yoad z”l. Afterwards, we traveled to the location of where hundreds of cars that were left on the side of the road are now kept. Many of the cars have gunshot holes and broken windows, frozen in time from October 7th. For the first time, Leslie was able to find the car that Adi, Hersh z"l, Aner z”l and Yoad z”l drove in as they traveled to the festival. We opened the doors to the car and removed a few remaining personal items. As tears streamed down my face, I felt a personal connection to these four amazing young people that I never met. Each time we now take out the Torah, I will remember Yoad z”l and his incredible friends. And on Simchat Torah, we will somehow find a way to dance through the tears.

Hag kasher v’sameach,

Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn

How

can we possibly celebrate and dance with the Torah on the anniversary of the murder of 1200 of our brothers and sisters and the ruthless kidnapping of over 250 men, women, and children (103 remain in captivity as I write this)? And how can we not continue to dance?

Leslie Kaufman lighting candles for Aner Shapira z"l & Yoad Pe'er z"l

Yoad Pe'er z"l

”

I believe that opposite the rabbi, whose work I see as bringing the word of God down to the people . . . , it is the work of the cantor to facilitate the conversation in the other direction. To help members of the Jewish community figure out what exactly it is they have to say—to God, to the world, to themselves.

Finding Our Jewish Voices

I believe that opposite the rabbi, whose work I see as bringing the word of God down to the people (primarily through the medium of Torah), it is the work of the cantor to facilitate the conversation in the other direction. To help members of the Jewish community figure out what exactly it is they have to say—to God, to the world, to themselves. This can be literal, through prayer, song and chant, finding one's traditional Jewish voice. But it can also refer to the contribution one feels they have to make on Jewish community, or perhaps to how we can refresh timeless Jewish rituals to speak to new identities, family models and ways of being Jewish in the 21st century.

Dear Friends,

Thank you for the warm welcome to the TCS community. I’m enjoying getting to know the rhythms of Jewish Westport living: praying and singing together at services both in the synagogue and at the beach; hosting some of you at Caleb and my home for Friday night dinners; and beginning to mentor and see your children through their b'nei mitzvah studies and celebrations.

In my interview process, I described my philosophy of what I believe it means to serve a community in the role of a cantor.

And I believe that it all begins with remembering to have a good time. Those who’ve heard the rabbi’s announcements after Shabbat services lately know that I’m exceedingly fond of attending Mah Jongg, and I’d love to see you there (no matter your age bracket!). I’m also delighted with the reception of the Rubik’s cubes, lanyard and other tchotchkes I keep in my office for young Shabbat service attendees to keep stimulated while they take in the sounds, songs and community of Friday night and Shabbat morning services. As of the time of my writing this, I’m champing at the bit to sing, pray, and dance with our preschool and Kehillah children as they begin to grace the halls of our synagogue with their laughter, energy and joy. Children, after all, have an easier time finding their voices than their elders; it’s just a question of helping them to retain and hone them as they grow into their unique Jewish selves, through the b'nei mitzvah process and hopefully far beyond.

Alternatively, I have also been honored to raise my voice with, and walk alongside many of you at Run for Their Lives on Sundays, walking Post Road in solidarity with the families of our brothers and

sisters held captive in Gaza. The flip side of showing up to have a good time is showing up when we need each other most. This has been true during this exceptionally difficult year in global Jewish history, and at the same time continues to apply day in day out when we show up for our fellow congregants to say kaddish in the presence of a minyan during the weekdays. As a member of the clergy, it is humbling knowing that all my time at the seminary renders me no better equipped than the young adult who just turned thirteen when it comes to showing up for each other in this way. While we search for our individual voices, we do well to remember that some of it may be found in harmony with the greater communal one. It has also been an honor to have already officiated funerals and shiva minyanim for a number of families in the community. Thank you for trusting me to help carry you through these most difficult moments in your lives.

I am looking forward to meeting you all this High Holiday season and beyond. May we, together, find our voices in the mosaic of Jewish community, Jewish practice, and Jewish living. May we see a world of flourishing, safe Jewish expression in our cities and institutions of learning. And may we merit to see—and build—a world of greater peace between peoples.

L'Shana Tova, Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson

Caleb Robinson, Riki Wiederhorn, Ayelet Wiederhorn 4: Summer

Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn, Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson 5: Summer Camp: Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson entertaining TCS members 6: Gala: Howie Fetner, Meredith Gershon 7 & 8: Shabbat at the Beach: Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson leading TCS members services

All names listed from left to right. Children are not identified by name to protect their privacy.

1: Summer Camp: Jason Abramowitz, Nicole Abramowitz

2: Mozaic Softball Game: Brian Frank, Andrew Meisel, Micah Meisel, Eric Baron, Aaron Tolkin, Jonathan Fleisig, Howie Fetner

3: Summer Camp:

Camp:

1: Summer Camp: Julie Chernok, Rick Chernok, Jennifer Hershey, Stewart Koenigsberg 2: Summer Camp: Howie Fetner, Michael Newshel 3: Summer Camp: Christina Burek, Sara Glick, Lynn Pokorny

4: Summer Camp: Karla Cohen, Camilla Klein, Deb Goodman

5: Summer Camp: Deb Goodman 6: Summer Camp: Meredith Gershon, Melissa Dombrow 7: Summer Camp: Howard Edelstein, Lisa Weitzman, Genna Edelstein 8: Summer Camp: Bradley Lempert, Christina Burek 9: Summer Camp: Sara Gaynes Levy, Mike Wein

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Welcome to the World!

Rory Gregory Dill son of Jessica Tapfar & Alice Dill, grandson of Shellie Tapfar

Ezra Baruch Queen Fraade son of Rabbis Michael Fraade & Jenn Queen, grandson of Jon Fraade & Rita Appel

Brody Jack Gillman son of Jake & Jaclyn Gillman, grandson of Neil & Amy Katz

Jack William Katz son of Ricky & Nicki Katz, brother of Lila, grandson of Todd & Susie Blumenfeld

Charlotte “Charlie” Lucia Rose daughter of Daniel & Dana Rose, sister of Sadie, granddaughter of Bob & Yvette Rose and Len & Linda Russ

Mac Wyatt Moscow son of Jared Moscow & Brette Warshaw, grandson of Sheri Warshaw and Jeff & Wynter Warshaw

Benjamin (Benji) Alex Navarro son of Josh & Brooke Navarro, brother of Eliza, grandson of Steve & Sharon Navarro

Ariel Alex Belok-Rueven daughter of Bryan & Elana Belok-Rueven, granddaughter of Mony & Liz Rueven

Samuel Elliot Shrago son of Eric Shrago & Alisha Gerber, brother of Gemma, grandson of Marsha Shrago

Max Asher Teplitz son of Justin & Stacey Teplitz, brother of Kayla & Ryan

Welcome New Members

David & Elizabeth (Lizzy) Allen and their children Romy, Simone & Josephine

Adam & Tehillah Braun and their children Bayla, Dylan, Shai & Coco

Ken & Roni Goldberg and their children Emily & Ross

Arthur & Peggy Grodd

David & Suesan Katz and their children Solomon, Micah & Jordan

Lee Hochbaum & Roxie Larin and their children Lila & Davina

Michael & Sarit Lewis and their children Shai & Atalia

Jared Itkowitz & Dara Phillips and their children Hallie & Sadie

Arthur Seltzer

Jacob & Karen Siegel and their daughter Eleanor

Joshua & Victoria Marcus and their children Ariella & Grayson

Lev & Edith Ratinov and their children Jonah, Margalit & Rozen

Jesse & Heather Rosenbaum and their children Jordyn & Jacquelyn

Matthew Wosnitzer & Danielle Rudich and their children Max & Lara

Mazal Tov to....

Jon Fraade & Rita Appel on their son Michael's recent ordination as a Rabbi

Weddings:

Scott & Abby Greenspun and Peter & Sandy Kolbrener on the marriage of their son/grandson Aaron Greenspun to Julia Watsky

David & Suzanne Haber on the marriage of their son Cameron Haber to Alexis Chestnov

Rob & Julie Haroun on the marriage of their son Dan Haroun to Lily Katz

Jennifer Hershey on the marriage of her son

Brian Hershey to Dr. Savannah Karmen-Tuohy

Alan Katz & Rose Horowitz on the marriage of their daughter Simone Katz to Craig Tarasoff, brother of Matthew and Amanda Tarasoff

Jim Glasser & Sharon Jaffe on the marriage of their daughter

Annie Glasser to Steven Sacks

David & Adrienne Kanter on the marriage of their son

Benjamin Kanter to Chaya Esther Bernath

Rich & Pam Kesselman on the marriage of their daughter

Sarah Kesselman to Hermes Arriola

Dan Gross & Candi Savin on the marriage of their daughter

Aliza Gross to Nathaniel Saffran

Recent Torah and Haftorah Readers:

Nicki Abramowitz

Rick Bitsky

Alex Fetner

Henry Feuerstein

Ellen Friedman

Art Gang

Ted Ginsberg

Phil Glick

Judy Greenberg

Mindy Hersh

Mark Highman

Howard Hochster

Adam Hodes

Bob Israely

Sharon Jaffe

Larry Kleinman

Matt Landau

Lissy Moskowitz

Susan Ochman

Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson

Jay Rand

Ramona Saft

Arthur Seltzer

Leon Serfaty

Cantor Jessica Silverberg

Steven Silverberg

Debbie Smolka

Carly Steckel

Mark Steckel

Geoffrey Stern

Nani Tibi

Joni Usdan

Carol Wahler

Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn

The Waller family on the marriage of their daughter

Courtney Waller to Robert Tashof Bernton

Neil & Sharon Wessan on the marriage of their son Eric Wessan to Britany Kabakov

Lee & Michele Wrubel on the marriage of their son Alec Wrubel to Molly Kandarian

Rick Bitsky & Joni Usdan on the marriage of their son William Bitsky to Jennie Small

Recent Megillah Readers:

Henry Feuerstein

Ellen Friedman

Judy Greenberg

Howard Hochster

Matt Landau

Jay Rand

Cantor Jessica Silverberg

Geoffrey Stern

Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn

Recent Eikah Readers:

Art Gang

Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson

Jay Rand

Recent Shir

Ha-Shirim

Readers:

Alan Radin

Jay Rand

Cantor Jessica Silverberg

Engagements:

Mark & Paula Argosh on the engagement of their son

Michael Argosh to Anya Rosen

Alan & Ilene Frost on the engagement of their daughter

Andrea Frost to Dani Ben-Rueven

Steve & Benay Rubin on the engagement of their daughter Blake Rubin to Jason Goldsmith

Adam & Tehillah Braun (Coco & Shai, 2s, siblings Bayla & Dylan)

Sydney Alexander & Zachary Cohen (Cooper, Tiny 2s)

Mark & Kira Greenfield (Shea 2s, sibling Hayes)

Jared Itkowitz & Dara Phillips (Sadie, 2s, Hallie, 4s)

Noam & Lindsey Liss (Avery, 3s, sibling Sophie)

Tommy Liu & Seohee Kong (Estelle 3s, sibling Olivia)

Jordan & Mara Mendell (Theo & Dean, Tiny 2s, sibling Rapha) Scott & Vanessa Mikuszewski (Zoe, 2s)

Adam & Samantha Pollack (Lucy, 2s, siblings Jonah & Sadie)

Jacob & Karen Siegel (Eleanor, Tiny 2s)

James & Danielle Yetter (Sophie, Tiny 2s, sibling Grace)

THE PRESIDENT

MARC ZUCKERMAN

Exciting TCS News

Dear Friends,

As we approach the Jewish New Year, a time of reflection and renewal, I'm thrilled to share some wonderful updates and upcoming opportunities at TCS.

First, I'm excited for you all to meet our new cantor, Gedalia Penner-Robinson, whose enthusiasm and dedication are sure to inspire. Eager to connect, our cantor is looking forward to engaging with our members and working with our students, bringing fresh energy to our spiritual and educational endeavors.

We're also welcoming Amanda Chase, a new staff member dedicated to member engagement. In this new role, she will focus on enhancing our programming and sense of community, and ensure every member feels connected.

Additionally, we have new staff leadership for our student members. Sarah Bernstein, our new Assistant Director of Education and Director of Youth Engagement is already making strides in enriching our children’s experiences and educational journeys.

THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Our staff is planning a lineup of engaging and meaningful programming all designed to strengthen our community bonds and enrich our spiritual lives. I encourage everyone to look at our weekly Shabbat Shalom emails for information and to participate (and bring friends and family along.)

Sadly, in just a few weeks, we’ll mark the first anniversary of October 7th. We will be holding special community-wide programming to commemorate the day. It will be a time to reflect on the resilience and strength of our community, and to reaffirm our solidarity and commitment to Eretz Yisrael.

As your President, I am here to support and grow with you. Let’s make this new year a thoughtful journey of community, learning, and growth.

Wishing you all a sweet and happy New Year!

Warm regards,

Marc Zuckerman

New Features for New Year

Dear TCS Community,

As the summer draws to a close, we find ourselves in a time of preparation and anticipation. With the school year just around the corner, our preschool and kehillah students will soon be filling our halls with their energy and enthusiasm. It is always a joy to witness the start of a new school year, and we look forward to supporting our students as they embark on another year of learning and growth.

In our ongoing commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our community, I want to inform you of some important updates. We recently made the difficult decision to raise our security supplement fee. This adjustment was necessary to cover the cost of additional security personnel, a critical step in maintaining a safe environment for everyone.

Our efforts to enhance security go beyond staffing. You can expect continued progress in upgrading our cameras, monitoring systems, and access controls. These enhancements are part of a broader initiative to fortify our infrastructure,

including crucial work around our main entrance. This work not only aims to catch up aesthetically with the renovations already completed but also to ensure that our facilities remain secure and welcoming.

As always, we appreciate your continued support and patience as we work to improve our synagogue’s facilities. Your understanding makes it possible for us to create a safe, beautiful, and functional space for our entire community.

Looking ahead, our team is in full swing planning mode for the upcoming High Holy Days. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are fast approaching, and we are excited to share these sacred days with you. We are working diligently to create meaningful and enriching experiences for all who join us in prayer and reflection.

We look forward to seeing everyone during this important time of year. May the coming weeks bring you peace and preparation as we enter this season of renewal together.

Shalom,

Cynthia Bannon

CYNTHIA BANNON

TCS Upcoming Events

You can register on the TCS website or through your Shabbat Shalom email newsletter. The next issue of The Mosaic will not come out until December. Check your weekly Shabbat Shalom email for new events before then.

TCS Judaica Boutique

BY WENDY SCHAEFER & DIANA SUSSMAN Co-chairs

Whether you are hosting Rosh Hashanah dinner or are invited to a friend's home and need a hostess gift, our TCS Judaica Boutique offers one-stop shopping for all your Judaica needs. We have an extensive collection of items, predominantly from Israel, including shofars, apple and honey dishes, vegan leather challah covers, mezuzahs, kosher mezuzah scrolls, Shabbat candlesticks, kiddush cups, challah cutting boards, tallitot, menorahs, Hanukkah candles, gelt, and Passover Seder plates. We also offer jewelry, books, toys, and a variety of hostess gifts.

Each year, we update our stock with new, current items. Come see what we have. To make an appointment to shop or for more information, contact the office at 203-454-4673.

These are just a few teasers from our shop’s collection:

Apples and honey plate for a sweet New Year

Wine fountain for Kiddush Shabbat candle holders & matching kiddush cup

Shofar and temple wall holder Honey pots for a sweet New Year

Candles in assorted patterns and sizes, including for Shabbat

Blown glass Shabbat candle holders

Holiday Schedule Kehillah Corner

BY SETH MARION Director of Education

We are thrilled to welcome two exceptional individuals to the TCS Kehillah community: Sarah Bernstein, our new Assistant Director of Education, and Jane Feder, our new Office Administrator. Their dedication, experience, and passion for Jewish education and community building make them invaluable additions to our team.

Meet Sarah: A Passion for Jewish Education and Leadership

Sarah joins Kehillah as the Assistant Director of Education, bringing a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to nurturing Jewish learning and values. Currently pursuing her Masters of Jewish Education at Jewish Theological Seminary (JTS), Sarah is well-equipped to help lead our Kehillah in creating an engaging, dynamic, and meaningful educational environment for our students.

Sarah’s journey in Jewish education began at a young age, having attended Jewish day schools, actively participating in USY, and spending summers at Camp Ramah Palmer. These formative experiences ignited her passion for Judaism and inspired her to dedicate her career to Jewish education. She pursued her undergraduate studies at Brandeis University, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude, double majoring in Education Studies and Near Eastern & Judaic Studies, with a minor in Psychology.

Sarah’s professional journey is marked by a series of distinguished roles that highlight her expertise and commitment. She began her graduate studies at the Pardes Institute of

Jewish Studies in Jerusalem, where she deepened her knowledge of Jewish texts and traditions. Sarah was selected as a Nachshon Graduate Fellow, a prestigious three-year fellowship dedicated to developing North American Jewish leaders. This experience further honed her leadership skills and reinforced her commitment to fostering vibrant Jewish communities.

Before joining Kehillah, Sarah served in various educational roles that have shaped her approach to teaching and leadership. She was a Mandel Teaching Fellow and Research Assistant for the History of Jewish Day Schools project, where she gained valuable insights into the evolution of Jewish education in North America.

At Kehillah, Sarah will work closely with our Director of Education to ensure that

our students receive a comprehensive and enriching Jewish education. Her innovative ideas, coupled with her strong background in educational leadership, will undoubtedly contribute to the continued success and growth of our synagogue school. Sarah’s enthusiasm for bringing Judaism and Israel to life for children and teens is contagious, and we are confident that her presence will inspire both students and staff alike.

Introducing Jane: A Heart for Community and Organization

Jane joins us as the new Office Administrator, a role that is vital to the smooth operation of our school. With a background in administrative management and a passion for community service, Jane is well-prepared to support the needs of our program and

Sarah Bernstein

Holiday Schedule Preschool Patter

ensure that Kehillah runs efficiently and effectively.

Jane’s experience in office administration is extensive, having worked in various roles that have equipped her with the skills needed to manage the day-to-day operations of Kehillah. Her attention to detail, organizational skills, and ability to juggle multiple tasks make her

an ideal fit for this position. Jane is also known for her warm and welcoming demeanor, which is sure to make everyone who walks through our doors feel at home.

In her role as Office Administrator, Jane will be responsible for managing Kehillah’s administrative tasks, including scheduling, communications, and member services. She will be the first point of contact for many of our students and parents, and her dedication to providing excellent service will be evident in everything she does. Jane is passionate about building strong relationships within the community, and she looks forward to getting to know each member of the Kehillah family.

BY LAURAN PANCOAST Director of Early Childhood, Preschool Programming & Operations

SUSAN BERNSTEIN Director of Early Childhood, Education & Curriculum

With the summer behind us and the arrival of fall and High Holidays, we are excited to be starting another school year together. As our preschool community continues to grow, we look forward to engaging with our families, making meaningful connections, and participating in thoughtful conversations. Our team of teachers and administrators are committed to creating a warm and nurturing environment that is full of exploration, creativity, and self-discovery as we delve into yet another year of child-led inquiry and play-based learning.

Looking Ahead

With Sarah’s expertise in Jewish education and Jane’s skills in administration, Kehillah is poised for a bright future. Their combined talents will enhance the educational and operational aspects of our synagogue, ensuring that we continue to provide a nurturing and vibrant environment for all.

We are excited to see the positive impact that Sarah and Jane will have on our community and encourage everyone to join us in welcoming them to Kehillah. Together, with their leadership and dedication, we will continue to build a strong, connected, and thriving Jewish community.

Jane Feder

Lauran Pancoast & Susan Berstein

Welcoming Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson

BY DIANA SUSSMAN

Within seconds of meeting Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson, I couldn’t help but feel his warmth and exuberance. As if I was a guest in his home, he greeted me with a hug and offered me a drink before we sat down at the table in his office. We were kibbitzing as friends do about everything, with one thing leading to another. My intent was to welcome and interview him: I felt like the reverse happened. Eventually, we redirected the focus to Cantor.

Cantor was born and raised in an Orthodox home in Queens, New York. As the youngest child of Rabbi Menachem Penner and Rebbetzin Sarah Penner, Judaism was always a central focus in his life. He has been “steeped” in Jewish rituals and practices since childhood and found they “gave meaning to life and made him feel more personally aware, present, and grateful.” Given this perspective, he is surprised by how “people feel like they are walking on eggshells when talking about Jewish practice and observance.”

He is not at all “judgy” about how others choose to incorporate religion into their lives. To him, these practices have lasted over 2000 years for a reason. He wants people to feel relaxed and is excited to discuss with people to what extent "Jewishness" makes sense for their lives and needs. He simply wants to share his love of Judaism and Israel and help people find the joy in being Jewish. In the short time I spent with him, I found his love and joy of both to be infectious.

His parents set the tone early that he and his siblings would continue the “family business” of leading the Jewish community. His older brother became a rabbi and his sister was a principal of a day school.

Despite having always been musical and often harmonizing on prayers with his father, who as the Rabbi led services, he didn't initally consider becoming a Cantor. He grew up in services that were conducted like most Orthodox services, without a Cantor. At best, musical performers were hired to help.

Instead, Gedalia, who always loved working with children, expected to become a social worker. He had always loved working with

children and enjoyed playing with them on Shabbat to inspire them with positive feelings about Shabbat. He spent years as a youth director. Not surprisingly, he is very excited to work with the children here in preschool and Hebrew School and has innovative ideas to introduce.

Two groups of experiences during his time at Yeshiva University, where he received his B.A. in Music in 2017, set Gedalia on the path to becoming a Cantor.

First, he sang in two a cappella groups: “The Maccabeats” and the “Y-Studs A Cappella Group.” This baritenor sang a variety of voice parts and traveled the world with both groups. Performing before a robust Jewish community in Germany, especially during Kristallnacht, was the most memorable. He has also sang (“gigged”) several times with both groups at high holiday services, as well as some solo gigs as a Cantor. At first, he presided in Orthodox services but later conducted Conservative ones.

Second, during his college experience Gedalia chose to come out. At that time, the LGBTQ community at Yeshiva was not organized. There were some group chats and Shabbat dinners. He worked with others to organize the Pride Alliance, easing the path for those who came out after him.

Inspired by these experiences, he wanted to be true to himself and marry his love for music with his desire to continue the “family business.” In the Conservative Movement of Judaism, it is typical to have a Cantor as a musical leader of the congregation. The Conservative Movement also supports the LGBTQ community.

Despite only graduating from the H.L. Miller Cantorial School of the Jewish Theological Seminary in May 2024, our Cantor is experienced at leading services. He assisted his father and performed group and solo "gigs" for 10 years and served at a Conservative synagogue in Center City, Philadelphia. Since September 2022, he has conducted Cantor-in-Residence programs at two Conservative synagogues: Adath Israel of Riverdale in Bronx, NY and Adath Israel Congregation in Lawrenceville, NJ. He is also a former resident at Yeshivat Hadar’s Rising Song Institute.

Personally, Cantor is a warm, relatable, engaging person who loves games. You might find him playing mah jongg on Monday evenings at the TCS games night. He also loves anything to do with words and language. He and his husband Caleb do the New York Times crossword puzzle every day. Studying the evolution of alphabets or the origins of language are also his hobbies.

Cantor is excited to hand down old traditions and create new ones. For example, he sees the old tradition of Shabbat as a time to spend with family, unplug from lives, and focus on the joy that Judaism can offer to better our lives. He and Caleb hope to open their home more and more to congregants for Shabbat dinners on Friday nights. Caleb is a terrific chef and Cantor enjoys playing sous chef.

Please take a moment to introduce yourself to Cantor and welcome him to our community at TCS. I am sure that when you do he will welcome you with open arms.

Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson leading Shabbat services at the beach.

Living Water

BY GEOFFREY STERN

On Friday summer evenings we at TCS and the general community get to experience the magic of welcoming the Sabbath and celebrating creation in the public space. It was with that in mind that I was excited to be there for Cantor Gedalia’s inaugural Kabbalat Shabbat on the beach.

Gedalia started by sharing with us the view of the slowly vanishing horizon and reminding us how in creation, God divided between water and water and separated the water under the heavens and the water above the sky. There was joy and excitement to be re-introduced and re-imagine this weekly ritual through the cantor’s first impressions, his comments, songs, and pure joy emanating from his face.

As he conducted the service, he discovered and shared with us the multiple and references to water in our Friday night liturgy.

Lechu Niranana: The sea is God’s, for God made it; and God’s hands shaped the dry land.

Psalm 96: Yi’rum Ha’yam Let the heavens be glad and the earth rejoice; let the sea roar, and all within it and all within it.

Psalm 98: Let the sea and all within it thunder, the world and its inhabitants; let the rivers clap their hands, the mountains sing joyously together.

Psalm 29: Kol Adonai al Ha’mayim The voice of the LORD is over the waters; the God of glory thunders, the LORD, over the mighty waters.

Psalm 93 Mikolot Mayim Rabim: The ocean sounds, O LORD, the ocean sounds its thunder, the ocean sounds its pounding. Above the thunder of the mighty waters, more majestic than the breakers of the sea is the LORD, majestic on high.

It was a magical Kabbalat Shabbat.

A few weeks earlier I had gone with my wife, mom, and brother to Compo Beach on a Sunday morning to celebrate what would have been my dad’s 101st birthday. He was a Navy man, a fisherman, and loved to dive into the surf. I should not have been surprised to find groups of our Christian co-religionists celebrating their

Sabbath in the very places we celebrate ours. There was one congregation that was baptizing a teen. The minister and he were standing ankle-deep in the Sound and the young man was sprinkled, not dunked. As we passed we overheard the minister recounting the ancient biblical concept of “Living Water”… what we know as Mayim Chayim.

I publish a weekly Disruptive Torah podcast called Madlik and did a recent episode on Holy Water. One of the points that I made was that historically, an identifier of a Jewish community was a Beit Knesset (house of prayer/gathering), a Beit Midrash (house of study), a Gm’ach (free loan society) and a Mikveh (ritual bath, lit. gathering of water). At TCS our beautiful campus houses our house of prayer and study, and I am confident that when a congregant is in financial need we find ways to help. I would argue that the Long Island Sound is our mikveh. I would also argue that originally the mikveh was much more than a place for women to go once a month and for conversions.

Living Water was used for immersion by all genders on a daily and/or weekly basis before Shabbat. And sprinkling of water to purify goes back to the water of the Red Heifer.

I regretted that this more pervasive utilization of the power of natural, living waters was no longer part of nonorthodox practice. Rabbi Adam Mintz, my podcast co-host, introduced me and our listeners to an organization at the JCC of Manhattan called ImmerseNYC. The organization was founded by a non-

orthodox Rabbi named Sara Luria who teaches that immersions can mark life transitions such as weddings, births, healing from illness or trauma, significant birthdays, b'nei mitzvah, divorce, pregnancy loss, fertility struggles, and mourning, to name a few. Her organization trains guides who help those in need get the most out of the power of water.

After the podcast and that special Kabbalat Shabbat, it occurred to me that we at TCS need to be profoundly thankful that like traditional Jewish communities throughout the ages, we too have the resource of Living Water. Mayim Chayim to enrich our Judaism and to serve as a source of comfort, inspiration, renewal and community in times of joy, sadness, wonder and anxiety. It also occurred to me that our beach may have more to offer and maybe, just maybe, Kabbalat Shabbat and Tashlich are just the beginning…

L'chaim, or should I say Mayim L’chaim.

Member Spotlight: Carol & Allan Wahler

BY DIANA SUSSMAN

Regardless of weather, every Shabbat you will find Carol and Allan Wahler sitting in the first and second seats of the second row on the left if you are facing the bimah. You will know who they are because their seats are locked together. Married for 59 years, they have been best friends from day the day they met, October 6, 1962, and found that Judaism and being an active member of the TCS community has only brought them closer.

They see themselves as the city mouse and country mouse. Given the different worlds these two lived in, it was kismet that they actually met.

Carol was born in the Bronx in 1945 and her family had lived in the same building on Elder Avenue since the '30s. Living on the ground floor in a Puerto Rican/ Black/Jewish community, she rarely heard English and never felt antisemitism. Yet, when Carol was in sixth grade her father, who was in the printing business, changed the family name from Dolowitz to Darlow to avoid any issues, especially in business. Her family belonged to an orthodox synagogue in the Bronx. Despite having to work on Friday nights, her mother always made chicken soup for Shabbat dinner and kept up holiday traditions. She even grounded her own gefilte fish. Carol’s grandfather was very religious and her mother admired him.

Back then, it was typical in some areas for girls not to receive a formal religious education. Carol never went to Hebrew school. When asked if she wanted a bat mitzvah or sweet sixteen, Carol chose the sweet sixteen. Nonetheless, Judaism was always important to her. Even as a child, Carol ensured that candles were lit on Friday nights when her mother could not return in time to light them, even if she had to ask an elderly neighbor to help her say prayers.

Carol’s family was strict. After school you worked. There were no lessons, sports, or leisure time. Carol took care of her grandmother, including changing her bed pans, until she died. She also worked in the family printing (later typesetting) business, since she was 11 years old. She did bookkeeping, receptionist—whatever was needed. She realized she had a good eye for what looked right and put together several exhibits that won accolades.

But living in the city and working in typesetting was not where Carol saw herself. She wanted to live in a house with trees and a fireplace and to become a chemist. In fact, she'd been accepted to the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy and Science. When they moved to Elizabeth, New Jersey during Carol’s senior year in high school and she met Allan on a blind date, her entire world changed.

Allan was born in Brooklyn. His family then moved to Union, New Jersey, where they spent seven years, and then to Livingston, New Jersey. Allan grew up in the world Carol dreamt of—house in the suburbs, after-school activities, family holidays, and hanging with friends. Allan and his brother both went to Hebrew School.

Allan's family belonged to Temple B’nai Abraham in Livingston. Joachim Prinz was their rabbi and had quite a following. His grandparents were long-time members of his temple, which was initially located in Newark, New Jersey. When the Jewish community moved from Newark to South Orange, it took the rabbi and synagogue with them. Eventually, the temple moved from South Orange to Livingston.

Rabbi Joachim Prinz was a well-known rabbi in Germany before World War II. Adolf Eichmann, himself, warned him to leave three weeks before they began rounding up Jews. In response, Prinz came to America and became very active in civil rights. He was close friends with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and is pictured marching next to King during the famous Washington march where he gave his “I Have a Dream" speech. Prinz actually spoke before King, effectively his opening act.

Allan and Carol met on a blind date. Allan was attending Rutgers University when his friend Jerry begged him to join him and his girlfriend Doris on a date because she wanted to bring a friend who had just moved to Elizabeth from the Bronx. Allan reluctantly agreed. They both recall every detail of the evening and only disagree on what they ate for dinner. Allan didn’t speak for the first twenty minutes. But once he did, despite their different interests and upbringing, something clicked. He didn’t bring her home until 2:00 am. They remember Johnny Mathis was singing Tonight on the car radio and that was their wedding song. At the ages of 16 (Carol) and 19 (Allan), they had found their best friend and life partner.

For Carol, however, marrying Allan was not without sacrifice. Her parents gave her a choice: they would pay for her to go to the college in Philadelphia or she could marry Allan. She chose Allan and they soon had two wonderful children— Samantha and Adam.

Having a Jewish home was important to both of the Wahlers. They belonged to a Conservative Synagogue, attended services on Friday nights together (now they attend Saturday services too), and sent their children to Hebrew School. Allan remembers himself as a child taking busses and walking over a mile to get to Hebrew School. Carol also got Allan to change dishes over for Passover, a tradition he remembers his grandfather doing. Like her mother, she makes chicken soup and gefilte fish. She even uses her mother’s fish grinder. L'dor V'dor.

Over the years, Carol always regretted that she was not able to go to college and felt inferior to her husband who had a masters degree from Seton Hall. Determined to get an education, at almost 30 and with two children, Carol took classes at Morris County Community College. She was an art major. Given her obligations, she could only take a couple of classes at a time. After three and a half years, she graduated and then attended William Patterson College as an art major, where she graduated with honors in 1984 at the age of 39. Allan was always supportive.

She also sought her own career. When the Wahlers had gotten a stringing machine, they decided to open a tennis shop. Allan's mother watched the kids while they grew

Allan & Carol Wahler

"The Racquet Shoppe" into a successful business. In addition to selling merchandise, they offered tennis lessons, videos, and events. They even hosted a sold-out event to watch the Bobby Riggs/Billy Jean King match.

Meanwhile, Allan focused on marketing and advertising. He began as a buyer for Bloomingdales and was accepted into their executive training program. Lowenstein Textiles, which owns Wamsutta, poached him as a marketing manager. At some point, Carol’s father asked Allan to leave his job and sell for the family typography business. Allan agreed.

While selling in NYC, Allan passed a racquet shop. Feeling that Carol would want him to say hello and share that they had their own racquet shop in New Jersey, Allan went in and met Gene Scott, who owned the place. When he mentioned that he also worked for a typographer, he suggested he see his graphic designer Jack Odette who worked around the corner. Allan and Jack hit it off. Jack brought big clients to Allan, including Citibank. By 1987, the couple had sold their shop and moved to Manhattan.

When Jack met Carol at a black tie dinner, they also hit it off. At Jack’s insistence, Carol started working with the Type Directors Club. The club held an annual competition that Jack chaired. Her father’s typography company accepted packages for the event. Jack asked Carol to come in and organize them and answer inquiries. When Jack saw how well she did, he hired her. He invited her manage the international competition and to work on the traveling exhibit and showcasing the annual book of winners. In 1983, she was hired as the Executive Secretary and Director of the Type Directors Club. At some point she became the Executive Director of the organization and still holds this title 41 years later. For a period of time she also served as the Executive Director

of the Advertising Production Club of New York and the Specifications for Web Offset Publications.

The Wahlers winding up in Westport is as random as them meeting at all. Allan had several clients in Connecticut and while going to visit a client in Southport, they stopped at the Sherwood Diner to grab a bite. They overheard some high school kids talking and thought the place sounded like a cool place to live. Since it was easier for them to meet clients if they lived in Connecticut, Allan and Carol moved to Westport.

Once living in Westport, Allan started his own graphic production studio called A2A with his son Adam who had just graduated college and wanted to work with him. Due in large part to Adam’s creativity and energy, they were able to attract clients such as American Express, MasterCard, and Capital One, as well as publishers like Little, Brown, St. Martin's Press, and Penguin Random House. Despite growing up in New Jersey, both of their children wound up in Connecticut too. Adam lives in Westport with his wife Nancy and their son Alex. Samantha and her husband Bruce and their children Brandon, Eden, and Asher moved to Weston.

After joining TCS, Carol and Allan found a real community and Carol was able to fill

another lifelong goal—to get a religious education. In 2012, she, along with a group of other women from TCS, became a bat mitzvah after studying for over a year. She was so grateful that Rabbi Weiderhorn and Cantor Laura Berman created this opportunity. For years she had sought an adult education or b’nei mitzvah program at other temples she had belonged to but none offered one.

After learning to read Torah, she did so on a regular basis. Carol gives a big shout out of appreciation for the support she received from Debbie Smolka and many other members of the TCS community including Henry Feuerstein, Jay Rand, Stewart Levine, Susan Ochman, Judy Greenberg, Ellen Friedman, Phil Glick, Eric Baron, and Steve Goldring. She still reads during special occasions and would like to read more often.

The Wahlers found a home at TCS and their participation in the community has only further strengthened their marriage. Rabbi Wiederhorn always looks out for them. If they do not show up, he reaches out to make sure they are okay. But as they count on TCS for their support, TCS can count on the Wahlers sitting in their seats on Shabbat. Say hello. They would love to meet you.

Mazal Tov to Our B’nei Mitzvah

MATTHEW LEARY

August 31—Re'eh

LEWIS MEYERS

SKYE GREENFIELD

September 7 Shoftim

LIEV KATZ

September 28 —Nitzavim Vayeilekh

November 2 Noa h

NOAM WILSON-SPIRO

November 23 Hayyei Sarah

ANDREW BIRNS

November 30 Toldot

SAM KALNIT

September 21—Ki Teitzei

SYDNEY OLEFSON November 9 —Lekh L'kha

HANNA CALANDRO

September 21 Ki Tavo

AXEL November 16 Vayera

CHLOE

Todah Rabah

For sponsoring Kiddush lunch: Jay & Beth Rand in honor of Jay’s 50th bar mitzvah anniversary

Jon Fraade & Rita Appel in honor of Riki Wiederhorn and the other congregants who have been teaching Torah each Shabbat this year

Bob & Martina Israely in honor of Bob’s 70th bar mitzvah anniversary

Jim Glasser & Sharon Jaffe in honor of the aufruf of Steven Sacks & Annie Glasser

Dan & Laurie Ginsberg in honor of Eve’s bat mitzvah

Roger & Hilary Machlis in honor of the aufruf of Mark Eiseman & Elana Machlis

Rick Bitsky & Joni Usdan in honor of the aufruf of William Bitsky & Jennie Small and the baby naming of their granddaughter Pippa Donnenfeld

Bruce & Paula Koffsky in honor of the upcoming wedding of Josh Parker & Rachel Koffsky

Jeff & Wendy Cohen in honor of the aufruf of Matthew Kravitz & Caroline Cohen

For purchasing our new edition Megillat Esther: The Book of Esther Paul & Melinda Feuerstadt in honor of Cody’s bar mitzvah

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What’s Cooking?

BY ELISE MEYER

Grand Marnier Honey Cake with Salted Caramel Thyme Roasted Plums

Grand Marnier Honey Cake

Need a Rosh Hashanah Dessert? Honey cake springs to mind. But how many disappointing honey cakes have we all had? Lots, right? Sure. They look pretty but they are usually dry and tasteless. Ever on the hunt to perfect the “golden oldies,” I believe that this honey cake, served with a garnish of Italian Plums in salted-caramelthyme glaze might be the retro-modern kind of dessert that we can all stand behind. Feel free to garnish with a dollop of crème fraîche, or thick Greek Yogurt.

Ingredients

31/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 Tbsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp kosher salt

4 tsps ground cinnamon

1/2 tsp ground cloves

1/2 tsp ground allspice

1 cup vegetable oil

1 cup honey

1 Tbsp orange peel, grated

11/3 cups granulated sugar

1/2 cup brown sugar

3 large eggs at room temperature

1 tsp vanilla extract

1 cup warm coffee or strong tea

1/2 cup orange juice

¼ cup Grand Marnier (or brandy)

1/2 cup slivered or sliced almonds (optional)

Fits in three loaf pans, two 9-inch square or round cake pans, one 9 or 10 inch tube or bundt pan, or one 9 by 13 inch sheet cake.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Generously grease pan(s) with non-stick cooking spray. For tube or angel food pans, line the bottom with lightly greased parchment paper, cut to fit.

The Method

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, cloves and allspice.

2. Make a well in the center, and add oil, honey, white sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, coffee, orange juice and Grand Marnier, if using. (Measure your oil before the honey. It will be easier to get all of the honey out.)

3. Using a strong wire whisk or electric mixer on slow speed, stir together well to make a thick, well-blended batter. Make sure that no ingredients are stuck to the bottom.

4. Spoon batter into prepared pan(s).

5. Sprinkle top of cake(s) evenly with almonds, if using.

6. Place cake pan(s) on two baking sheets, stacked together (This ensures cakes bake evenly, otherwise the bottom will overbrown due to the high sugar content. Also, do not overfill pans. Make sure you leave at least a 1/2 inch for rising.)

7. Bake until cake tests done, that is, it springs back when you gently touch the cake center.

8. Timing for cakes: LARGE angel and tube cake pans - 60 to 75 minutes, loaf cakes - 45 to 55 minutes, sheet style cakes- 40 to 45 minutes. (Set timer for minimum time, and keep an eye on them.

9. Let cake stand fifteen minutes before removing from pan.

This

Salted Caramel Thyme Roasted Plums

Anyone who knows me knows my passion for salted caramel, so when I decided on the honey cake, I thought, “hmmmm, compote?” and wrinkled my nose. Because, yeah, compote. But then I looked at the Italian Plums on the counter, that were going to become (yet another) plum torte, and I thought of the honeyroasted pears from last year, and decided to improvise. In France we had a thymeplum dessert that was yummy, and I have a lot of thyme in the herb bed. So I came up with this . . .

Ingredients

1/2 cup (packed) dark brown sugar

¼ cup honey

4 Tbsp Earth Balance or unsalted butter

1/2 tsp Sel de Guerande or Maldon fleur de sel or another good salt

6 big fresh thyme sprigs

15 Italian plums

The Method

1. Preheat oven to 475°F.

2. Stir sugar, honey, margarine, salt and thyme together in large ovenproof nonstick skillet over high heat until butter melts.

3. Cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly. (mixture will bubble vigorously)

4. Add plum halves, cut side down.

5. Cook plums without stirring for 2 minutes.

6. Turn plums over and transfer skillet to oven.

7. Roast until caramel is deep brown, checking frequently to prevent burning, about 4 minutes.

8. Divide among dessert plates, spooning caramel over, leaving thyme behind.

9. Sprinkle with a bit of fresh time (optional) and serve with honey cake, crème fraîche, or Greek yogurt.

Honey Cake with "First Fruits" following tradition

is an adaptation from Smitten Kitchen via Marcy Goldman's Treasure of Jewish Holiday Baking

Fun Table Decor

BY DIANA SUSSMAN

A festive table always sets the stage for the holidays. Folding napkins in unique ways always provides interest. I like to fold my napkins into a Star of David. Here's how to do it:

You will need 1 square napkin

1. Unfold the napkin.

2. Bring the right bottom corner up to the middle crease.

3. Fold the bottom up a little more than 1/4 of the way.

4. Align the bottom edge to with the right edge.

5. Bring the bottom point up to the top edge.

6. Bring the top point of the fold down past the bottom edge.

7. The point sticking out at the bottom is equal to the little triangles at each side.

8. Bring the top point down to the bottom left edge.

9. Fold the point back just above the right edge, as you did for bottom point.

10. Fold Top layer of the right point just above the left edge, like other points.

11. Carefully flip over. You have a beautiful star.

Personally, I also like to use color themes for the holidays. As you can see below, for Rosh Hashanah, I choose blue and white.

Wishing you all a festive holiday. L'Shana Tova!

Blondinit: Israeli Food in Westport

BY ELISE MEYER

Want to spend a fun, upbeat, and delicious evening right here in town?

Then head right to The Blondinit, Westport’s own, totally authentic Israeli Restaurant. Take it from me, by the time your appetizers arrive (the best hummus on freshly baked pita!) you will be besties with the people at all the surrounding tables. People at the lively bar are chatting and laughing with each other and the rest of the diners, creating what owners Inda and Solomon Sade call “a real Tel Avivian experience”— warm hospitality, great food, interesting cocktails, lots of talking, fun music, and a friendly bar scene. They work on making it feel happy, and have a great time bringing people together. They love that they have tapped in to Westport’s unique community, and they love when friends reconnect under their roof. Their affection for Israel is deep through many trips and time spent with family in Israel. Blondinit, in case you’re wondering, is “blondie” in Israeli slang. It is Solomon’s fond nickname for blonde Inda.

The husband and wife team and their two daughters moved from NYC after they fell in love with Westport visiting friends on a beautiful May Day two years ago. They have been successful in their quest to bring people together to “have fun again, after being in our houses for three years.” Since they opened the restaurant downtown last spring, it’s a party every night. Especially on Friday night, when the restaurant hosts a warm and moving Shabbat Dinner, with candle lighting at sundown. An amazing community is formed of people who love and miss Israel, often people who are feeling stresses of the current environment.

The Blondinit draws culinary inspiration from the vibe of contemporary American

dining stirred into the flavorful and exciting melting pot that is Israeli cuisine—an exciting blend of Middle Eastern, North African, Mediterranean, and European flavors. The menu taps into this rich tapestry to create a dining experience that’s both distinctive and memorable. Fresh and tasty dishes are full of bold flavor. Local fresh vegetables blend with special ingredients imported from Israel. You will taste olive, citrus, and spices like za'atar and sumac. The menu features really fun takes on Israeli staples, like Bombacrusted cauliflower, and Baklava French

toast, challah topped with a pistachio-walnut honey syrup and rosewater.

Everything you’d see on a Tel Aviv menu is on offer. Sharing plates, a staple of Israeli dining, encourages communal eating, and allows diners to sample a variety of meze dishes together. Start with hummus, whipped feta, savory grilled halloumi cheese, and herby salatim or crispy moroccan cigars . I love the fresh take on shakshuka, a dish of poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce. For entrées, The Blondinit features yummy favorites like spiced lamb with pomegranate molasses and grilled meats that echo Israel’s love for well-seasoned, flame-grilled dishes. There is fish prepared in a Mediterranean-style, with olive oil, lemon, and fresh herbs, and a house favorite, the crispy chicken schnitzel served with salad and a tahini drizzle. At lunch the various bowls, your choice of falafel or grilled proteins on rice or salad are a healthy pick. There is a kids menu too—our littles love the schnitzel strips.

But it's the bar scene and the cocktails that really excite Inda and Solomon, who are always whipping up delicious and offbeat drinks at the hopping bar, and promising some new additions this fall. One of the

crowd-pleasing specialties is the Spicy Sumac rimmed Yarok Margarita, and Inda has shared the recipe with us. The sumac coated rim is spicy and different, and the green color comes from the liquid squeezed from their homemade hot Schug.* She suggests you try it for Rosh Hashanah dinner, maybe with some hummus and tehina, and a fresh warm round challah. And next time you are looking for a taste of Israel, head over and say Shalom.

The restaurant is open for brunch, lunch, and dinner every day except Monday. 29 Church Lane, Westport 203-557-3277 resy@Theblondinit.com https://theblondinit.com/

Yarok Margarita

Wipe rim of a margarita glass with lime and sprinkle heavily and evenly with sumac.

In a cocktail shaker mix the following with a lot of ice and shake vigorously.

2 oz Herridura silver tequila

1 oz simple syrup

1 oz strained, squeezed liquid from Schug* 1 oz lime juice

*schug, (zhoug, zoug) is a spicy green condiment from Yemen made of hot green peppers mixed with coriander, lemon, garlic, olive oil, and spices. You can buy a container at Trader Joe's.

Owner of Blondinit Inda Sade

TCS Connections at Medical School

BY DIANA SUSSMAN

When Benji Malowitz graduated University of Michigan and started medical school at University of Connecticut (“UConn”) this fall he was excited. But when he saw Gabby Greeley and Zoe Barnett among his fellow 108 medical students, he was thrilled. As he noted, “it is really nice to know some familiar faces.”

He had known Zoe was going to be there a few weeks beforehand because he had seen her page on a power point of the Facebook of new medical students. While Zoe was a year younger than him in Hebrew School, he had always known about her. They both attended Staples High School and University of Michigan and overlapped while they were there but being in different years and different friend groups, they just didn’t run into each other.

Unlike Zoe, Gabby was in his Hebrew School class and they were friendly but he was from Westport and she was from Weston. Social groups tended to divide by

towns. So while they never went to each other’s mitzvahs, they recognized each other immediately.

He had no idea that Gabby was going to be in his med school class until he showed up that day. Gabby had not done a page for the student Facebook. Even more of a coincidence is that Benji and Gabby, along with two others, were assigned to the same cadaver. As Benji noted, “They have come a long way from Tibi’s music class.”

So, while the three of them never had a relationship or friendship growing up, they are now all close friends.

Benji had decided that he wanted to be a doctor after freshman year of college. During his spring term, he took a class called “Introduction to Biology” and was hooked. He changed his orientation from general studies to pre-med and had to redo his first term schedule for sophomore year. With each new experience in the pre-med world, his passion for becoming a doctor grew more and more. The hands on experience the lab work closed the deal. This is what he wanted to do.

The “Emperor of all Maladies” by Siddhartha Mulkherjee, which discussed balancing scientific exploration, pushing curiosity, and helping some of the most vulnerable patients, inspired Benji. He loved the idea of being a scientist and compassionate caregiver and felt the field of oncology offered him the balance he sought. After graduating college, Benji found a position at

CONTINUED ON PAGE 25

Ugit ut odis conse et et aut aut aut lantiaectis reperumquis seque imus, sunt, quis molupta velland icianis dunt aut. Gia placcatio ma volore omni.

Zoe Barnett, Benji Malowitz, and Gabby Greeley

Traditions To Transformations

BY DIANA SUSSMAN

Rosh Hashanah marks the beginning of the "The Days of Awe” or “The Ten Days of Repentance.” It ends on Yom Kippur. During these ten days, Jews meditate, reflect, and offer forgiveness to anyone they have wronged, as well as ask for forgiveness. This tradition of self-reflection can lead to spiritual renewal and behavioral change. To some degree, it is similar to the resolutions made during the secular new year that begins on January 1st. That’s why gyms are so full during the first two weeks of January. Given world events this past year, such reflection is needed now more than ever and not just looking inward.

So, let’s start with reflecting on this memorable year. At the outset, TCS overcame difficulties created with the unexpected departures of both Cantor Cattan and the Director of Education and Marketing Communications Seth Golob. TCS hired Cantor Jessica Silverberg for the year and Cantor Raphael Frieder to help run High Holiday services, and Seth Marion to serve as the new Director of Education.

We welcomed new faces in our lay leadership —Marc Zuckerman became president and Mike Newshel, Melissa Dombrow, Phyllis Wallitt, and Jake Axel joined the Executive Committee. Together, we took steps to address the evolving needs of our community, including changing the name of our synagogue from The Conservative Synagogue to The Community Synagogue.

In a normal year, that alone would have been big news. But this was not a normal year. No one could have expected or have been prepared for the horrible attacks on October 7th (Simchat Torah) last year. The world’s muted response to the deadliest attack on Jews (1,195 people murdered) since the Holocaust and immediate concern for what steps Israel might take in retaliation stunned many. Further, as Israel fought back and tried to rescue the 251 people taken by Hamas, the world experienced a huge rise in antisemitism.

Some of the most publicized involved protests at colleges and universities against Israel and all Zionists, which meant any Jew who believed Israel had a right to exist. Among the protestors were some professional

agitators, faculty members, administrators, and some students. Jewish college students were intimidated, blocked from going into buildings, spit upon. No one would have thought this could happen at some of the most elite institutions in our country. No one would have believed that a year later most of the hostages are still in captivity and the war against Hamas continues. Members of TCS responded by uniting together and raising their voice against antisemitism and Israel. TCS marched to Washington to demand the return of the hostages and support for the both the American and Israeli Jewish communities.

They protested the United Nations’ unfair treatment of Israel on jUNe Day. They walked (and still walk) weekly on Sundays to demand the hostages’ release. Rabbi Wiederhorn led multiple missions to Israel.

Attendance at services increased. Many discovered that their Judaism and Israel meant a lot more to them than they had previously realized. The TCS community united, picked itself up and came out stronger to face a world now very different from the one they had known.

One ironically positive omen is that the horrendous October 7th attack occurred on Simchat Torah, a holiday marking the lifecycle event of reading the last and first portion of the Torah and traditionally celebrated by dancing with the Torah. History is full of cycles where antisemitism has reared its ugly head and Jews rose

above it. It will not be easy. It may not be a quick fix. But it is doable and we will dance again in celebration.

Given the inevitable challenges we as a community will face this upcoming year, engaging in self-reflection and deciding what face you want to show this new world is imperative. What does being Jewish mean to you? How do you want to connect to your Judaism? How do you integrate your feelings about Judaism in

the secular outside world? How do you feel about being part of a small minority in the United States? What does Israel mean to you? How important is its existence and safety to you? What steps are you willing to take to show pride in being Jewish or support for Israel’s right to exist?

Poster of one of the hostages—American Israeli Hersh Goldberg-Polin z"l, 24, taken on October 7th and recently murdered just before the IDF could free him.

TCS members protesting on jUNe Day

Erika Brunwasser & friend wrapped in Israeli flags to show support

TCS members walking on the bridge to demand hostages' be released

If such reflections motivate you to renew your spiritual self or change your behavior in some way, the best time to start expressing the “new you” is during the Ten Days of Awe between when your fate is theoretically inscribed in the Book of Life on Rosh Hashanah and sealed on Yom Kippur. May this age old tradition of self-reflection and spiritual renewal be transformative in a way that you deem meaningful and positive.

TCS Connections at UConn Medical School

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 23

Massachusetts General Hospital working on phase 1 oncology drug trials. This experience reinforced his desire to become an oncologist.

When applying to medical school, Benji referenced the concept of Tikkun Olam and how working in the field of medicine enabled him to practice Tikkun Olam—to help others and make the world a better place. His Jewish upbringing, including years in Hebrew School at TCS, helped shape who he is. As Benji said, “I am proud of who I am. Being Jewish is a big part of my identity—cultural family traditions, shaped who I am, something I appreciated as I’ve gotten older and chose to go down this path.”

The events of October 7 reinforced the responsibility Benji felt “to be proud of being Jewish, especially knowing others are not as comfortable being proud of Jewishness.” He has taken steps to be more outwardly Jewish. For instance, he contacted the Farmington Chabad and

asked a Rabbi to help install mezuzahs on the doorposts of his apartment. In addition, unlike college where he was not involved in Jewish student life, one of the first things he did when starting medical school was to join a Jewish community.

He does not feel any antisemitism at UConn and feels the UConn community fosters respect for people of all backgrounds. He has faith in the UConn administration and believes the student body won’t be an issue.

Benji has always lived in Westport with his parents Lauren Soloff and Wesley Malowitz and his siblings—Hannah and Jake. While he enjoyed growing up here, it was not until now that he has come to fully recognize the value of it. He now appreciates mitzvah day, pancake breakfasts with brotherhood, and attending Hebrew School at TCS. He wants to give “a big thank you to the TCS community.”

Condolences

(Alphabetized by name of member relation)

Judith Lachance Bannon z"l, mother of Cynthia Bannon

Gail Cohen z”l, wife of Eric Cohen, mother of Hayley Cohen and Zachary (Sydney) Cohen

Howard Feuer z”l, father of Lindsay (Geoffrey) Hollander

Mel Katz z”l, husband of Judy Katz, father of Melissa (Jon) Kane

Stephanie Bass z”l, mother of Jessie (Daniel Kwasnik) Schwartz-Kwasnik

Shirley Levine z”l, mother of Stewart (Elisabeth) Levine

Joel Safran z”l, brother of Frank (Diane) Safran

Reena Seltzer z”l, wife of Arthur Seltzer

Robert Segal z”l, father of Renee (Leon) Serfaty

Stephen Sharkey z”l, father of Scott (Linda) Sharkey

Florence Stanford z”l, mother of Tom (Ronnie) Stanford

Leonard Klein z”l, father of Benay (Steven) Rubin and Risa (Steven) Werner

Gloria Werner z”l, mother of Steven (Risa) Werner

TCS members protesting on jUNe Day

TCS Thanks Its Donors, Doers & Daveners

Adult Education Fund

Steve & Becky Binder in memory of Robert Segal z”l

Robert & Martina Israely in memory of Paul Nicholls Jr., z”l

Larry & Sally Kleinman in memory of:

• Larry Cohen z”l

• Naomi Cohen z”l

Susan Ochman in honor of Bob & Martina Israely for sponsoring kiddush in celebration of Bob’s 70th bar mitzvah anniversary

Susan Ochman in memory of:

• Judith LaChance Bannon z”l

• Mel Katz z”l

Ed & Debbie Smolka in honor of Len Russ’ 70th birthday

Philip & Wendy Schaefer in honor of:

• the engagement of Emma Halper to Alex Vogt

• the marriage of Morgan Folger to Bo Hayward

Building/Security Fund

Hank & Anna Akyuz in memory of Ishak Akyuz z”l

Ben & Ivy Gosseen

Robert & Julie Haroun in honor of the wedding of Alec Wrubel & Molly Kandarian

Jordan & Jennifer Kanfer in memory of Judith Lachance Bannon z”l

Michael Jay Pomish in memory of Howard Feuer z”l

The Potter Family in memory of Robert Segal z”l

Lee & Michele Wrubel in honor of the engagement of Julia Cohen to Anna Morgan

Cantor’s Discretionary Fund

Joanne Folger in memory of Allan Goshin z”l

Brian & Jennifer Frank in honor of the birth of Benji Navarro

Rabbi Roni Handler in honor of Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson, thank you for sharing your music with our community!

Phil, Sara, Emma & Ava Glick in memory of:

• Alan Glick z”l

• Ida Lobock z”l

• Robert Lobock z”l

The Labarre Family in honor of Cantor Penner-Robinson with appreciation for his participation in Vivian’s baby naming Matthew & Elayne Landau in memory of Leonard Klein z”l

Martha Rosenfeld in memory of Bernard Elowsky z”l

The Rubin Family in memory of:

• Leonard Klein z”l

• Loretta Klein z”l

Arthur Seltzer in memory of Reena Seltzer z”l

Justin & Stacey Teplitz in honor of the birth of Max Teplitz

The Werner Family in memory of:

• Leonard Klein z”l

• Loretta Klein z”l

General Fund

Judy Berman in memory of Jack Kahan z”l

Ed & Michele Cohen in memory of Max Liebman z”l

Matthew & Melissa Dombrow in memory of Marty Lakoff z”l

Eric & Heather Feuer in memory of Howard Feuer z”l

Gail Feuer in memory of Howard Feuer z”l

Mark & Susan Fisher in honor of Ilene Frost

Michael & Michelle Goldstein in memory of Howard Feuer z”l

Jeffrey & Pam Good in memory of Howard Feuer z”l

Phil, Monique, Jordy, Jonny & Eliza Greenspan in honor of Eve Ginsberg becoming a bat mitzvah

The Greenspan Family in memory of Robert Segal z”l

Scott & Abby Greenspun in honor of the marriage of Aaron Greenspun & Julia Watsky

Eileen Gress in memory of Paul Gress z”l

The Hollander Family in memory of Howard Feuer z”l

Bruce Jacobs & Ken Levy, Jacobs Levy Equity Management in honor of Tobias Moskowitz as the Best Article Winner of the 25th Annual Bernstein Fabozzi/ Jacobs Levy Awards

Irving & Sara Kane in memory of Mel Katz z”l

Jeff & Carol Kaplan and Family in memory of:

• Albert Kaplan z”l

• Estelle Rathbone z”l

Larry & Sally Kleinman in memory of Joel Safran z”l

Peter & Sandy Kolbrener in honor of the marriage of Dr. Aaron Greenspun & Julia Watsky

Stewart & Elisabeth Levine in memory of Reuben Levine z”l

Cynthia Lieberbaum in memory of:

• Robert Greenberger z”l

• Ruth Greenberger z”l

• Lillian Lieberbaum z”l

• Sheldon Lieberbaum z”l

Bruce & Gale Lowen in memory of Howard Feuer z”l

Dennis & Janet Magid in honor of Eve Ginsberg becoming a bat mitzvah

McGuireWoods New York Office in memory of Howard Feuer z”l

Roselynne Mizner in memory of Howard Feuer z”l

Marcia Robins in memory of Howard Feuer z”l

Martha Rosenfeld in memory of Freda Rosenfeld z”l

David & Faith Schachne in honor of the marriage of Aimee & Michael Jablon

Paul & Betty Schaffer in memory of Mel Katz z”l

Mark Schulte in appreciation of the Kabbalat Shabbat service at Compo Beach

The Shaw Family in memory of Mel Katz z”l

Lewis Sperber in honor of Abigail, Alyssa & Josh Gold

Robert & Gail Storm in memory of:

• Shirley Levine z”l

• Claire Storm z”l

The Tapfar Family in memory of:

• Bernice Gorelick z”l

• Shirley Levine z”l

Judy Udell in memory of Howard Udell z”l

The Waller Family in memory of Sandra Waller z”l

Adam Watsky in celebration of the aufruf of Aaron Greenspun & Julia Watsky

Fred & Sherry Wiener in memory of:

• Lillian Russakoff z”l

• Gay Wiener z”l

Lee & Michele Wrubel in honor of:

• Ilene Frost

• The 70th anniversary of Bob Israely’s bar mitzvah

• The 50th anniversary of Jay Rand’s bar mitzvah

Holocaust Education Fund

Ed & Barbara Berliner in memory of

Vera Kahn Levi z”l

Hyman & Cynthia Cohen in memory of:

• Leon Baraz z”l

• Celia Cohen z”l

• Clara Cohen z”l

Cara Epstein in memory of Howard Feuer z”l

Jeff & Beth Goldstein in memory of Stephen Sharkey z”l

Jeff & Carol Kaplan and Family in memory of:

• Albert Kaplan z”l

• Estelle Rathbone z”l

Liz & Gary Krebs in appreciation of Mindy Hersh

Howard Matson in memory of Kitty Knoblock z”l

Stephen & Isabel Moskowitz in memory of:

• Aron Price z”l

• Shirley Price z”l

Gibson Kinloch & Sara O’Toole in memory of Howard Feuer z”l

Neil & Kim Phillips in memory of Robert Segal z”l

Shellie Tapfar in memory of Gail Cohen z”l

Ian Walters & Mindy Hersh in memory of:

• Ted Hersh z”l

• Linda Walters z”l

Steve & Ana White in memory of Julius Gorfinkel z”l

Hospitality Fund

The Cuomo Family in memory of Howard Feuer z”l

Jewish Cultural Arts Fund

Phyllis & Sheldon Nova in honor of Sarah Kesselman’s wedding to Hermes Arriola

Gibson Kinloch & Sara O’Toole in memory of Howard Feuer z”l

Kehillah School Fund

Ellen Sudranski Friedman in memory of Dr. Herbert F. Sudranski z”l

Michael & Jessica Newshel in appreciation of Lachers Reese

Phil & Wendy Schaefer in memory of Robert Segal z”l

Library Fund

Barry, Robin, Courtney, and Alexa Babbin in memory of Mrs. Shirley Babbin z”l

Lee Hochbaum & Roxana Larin in memory of David Hochbaum z”l

Music Fund

Bruce & Paula Koffsky in appreciation of Tibi & Asya for the beautiful Kiddush luncheon in honor of Josh & Rachel Gibson Kinloch & Sara O’Toole in memory of Howard Feuer z”l

Ken & Teri Sacken in memory of Mel Katz z”l

Peter R. Lessler Scholarship Fund

Gibson Kinloch & Sara O’Toole in memory of Howard Feuer z”l

Prayer Book & Chumash Fund

Nancy Gold in memory of Morton Ilberman z”l

Sally & Larry Kleinman in honor of Bob Israely on the special anniversary of his bar mitzvah

Howard Matson in memory of Sara Rappaport z”l

Susan Ochman in memory of Reena L. Seltzer z”l

Preschool Scholarship Fund

Josh, Alyssa, and Abigail Gold in honor of the birth of Max Asher Teplitz

Brian, Nicole, and Ethan Kaufman in memory of Howard Feuer z”l

Lee, Eva, Todd, and Becca Rawiszer in memory of Zhanna Bar z”l

Michael & Arielle Wein in memory of Howard Feuer z”l

Rabbi’s Discretionary Fund

Jordan & Lauren Barnett in memory of Janice Margolis z”l

Alan & Amy Benjamin in memory of Robert Segal z”l

Ed & Barbara Berliner in memory of Janice Berliner z”l

Rick Bitsky & Joni Usdan in honor of the aufruf of William Bitsky & Jennie Small and the baby naming of their granddaughter Pippa Donnenfeld

Rick Bitsky & Joni Usdan in memory of Golda Bitsky z”l

Fred & Judy Block in memory of:

• George Block z”l

• Aaron Cohen z”l

• Ruth Cohen z”l

• Samuel Cohen z”l

Todd & Susie Blumenfeld in honor of the weddings of:

• Dan Haroun & Lily Katz

• Annie Glasser & Steven Sacks

• Eric Wessan & Britany Kabakov

• Alec Wrubel & Molly Kandarian

Todd & Susie Blumenfeld in memory of:

• Leonard Klein z”l

• Robert Segal z”l

David & Precilla Bukzin in honor of Daniel Bukzin z”l

Andrew Adler & Maia Cattan in appreciation of Rabbi Wiederhorn for making their wedding day so special!

Robert Chavez in memory of Howard Feuer z”l

Karen Cohen in memory of:

• Zeena Cohen z”l

• Bernice Sturtz z”l

Michele Corenman in memory of Gail Cohen z”l

The Feuerstadt Family in appreciation of Rabbi Wiederhorn’s support of Cody’s bar mitzvah

Joanne Folger in memory of Allan Goshin z”l

Kathy Franklin in memory of Stephanie Bass z”l

Art & Ellen Gang in honor of:

• Bob Israely’s second Bar Mitzvah: On to the Third!

• Dick Kalt

Art & Ellen Gang in memory of:

• Nona Levin Abrams z”l

• Esther Schraub z”l

Jill Gerla in appreciation of joining the TCS group in Israel

The Ginsberg Family in honor of Eve becoming a bat mitzvah

Ivy Gosseen in appreciation of Dr. Debra Schussheim

Marty Fox & Ellen Graff in memory of:

• Edith Graff z”l

• Henry Graff z”l

Mitch & Judy Greenberg in memory of Shirley Levine z”l

Richard & Barbara Greenspan in memory of Reynold Greenspan z”l

Rob & Julie Haroun in honor of the marriage of Dan Haroun & Lily Katz

Marcia Hutter in memory of Esther Hutter z”l

Helene Jacobs in memory of Henry Jacobs z”l and in honor of Gloria Jacobs

Dick & Lydia Kalt in memory of Pearl Kalt z”l

Neil & Amy Katz in appreciation of Rabbi Wiederhorn for helping to create such a beautiful and meaningful ceremony for Abby & David

Jillian & Anthony Klaff in memory of:

• Bernie Gelfand z”l

• Marigold Gelfand z”l

• Marjorie Klaff z”l

• Mel Katz z”l

Barry & Deb Konner in memory of Stephen Sharkey z”l

The Kornbluth Family in memory of Leon Landau z”l

Gary & Liz Krebs in honor of Eve Ginsberg becoming a bat mitzvah

Steve & Claudette Kunkes in memory of Beatrice Kunkes z”l

The Labarre Family in honor of Rabbi Wiederhorn with gratitude for Vivian’s beautiful baby naming

Matthew & Elayne Landau in honor of Len Russ’ 70th birthday

Stewart & Elisabeth Levine in memory of Robert Segal z”l

James Weisz & Robyn Levy in memory of:

• Renee Marilyn Levy z”l

• George Weisz z”l

Denise Lewis in honor of Gabrielle Paige Gluck

The Lewis Family in memory of Michael Lewis z”l

Roger & Hilary Machlis in honor of Rabbi Wiederhorn with great thanks for Mark & Elana's aufruf

The Malowitz/Soloff Family in memory of Beverly Malowitz z”l

Murray & Susan Morrison in memory of:

• Ruth Kobren z”l

• Mildred Morrison z”l

Steven & Sharon Navarro in memory of:

• Howard Navarro z”l

• Murray Navarro z”l

CONTINUED ON PAGE 28

TCS Thanks Its Donors, Doers & Daveners

CONTINUED

Jerry & Gladys O’Neil, Heather, Arie, and Tommy O’Neil-Belok in memory of Tillie Liebowitz Glasberg z”l

Kent & Nancy Oiler in memory of Mel Katz z”l

The Pearl Family in memory of Dr. Carlton Rosenzweig z”l

Mark & Sandy Rappaport in appreciation of Rabbi Wiederhorn’s sessions on the Conservative Movement

Mark & Sandy Rappaport in memory of:

• Donald Feldman z”l

• Robert Feldman z”l

Barbara Backlar Reis in memory of Samuel Backlar z”l

Martha Rosenfeld in memory of Anne Elowsky z”l

Dan & Paula Rosenthal in memory of Nona Levin Abrams z”l

The Rubin Family in memory of:

• Leonard Klein z”l

• Loretta Klein z”l

Arthur Seltzer, Avra & Nate Weiner in memory of Reena Seltzer z”l

Scott & Linda Sharkey in memory of Stephen Sharkey z”l

Sol Slotnik in honor of Dr. Bob Israely’s Bar Mitzvah

Paul & Jodi Sosman in honor of Brooke’s baby naming

Mark & Cynthia Steckel in memory of Cantor Harold Steckel z”l

Jeffrey Steinberg in appreciation of Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn

Steven & Judy Samuels in memory of Nona Levin Abrams z”l

Craig Tarasoff & Simone Katz in appreciation for Rabbi Wiederhorn officiating at their wedding

Chuck & Barbara Taubman in honor of Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn

Justin & Stacey Teplitz in honor of the birth of Max Teplitz

The Udell Family in memory of Stephen Sharkey z”l

Margot & Bill Usdan in honor of being called to the Torah

The Waller Family in appreciation of Rabbi Wiederhorn for the aufruf

Bruce and Tami Weiser

The Werner Family in memory of:

• Leonard Klein z”l

• Loretta Klein z”l

Ken Wirfel & June Eichbaum in memory of:

• Saree Eichbaum z”l

• Ulryk Eichbaum z”l

Sisterhood – Mitzvah Fund

Philip & Wendy Schaefer in honor of the marriage of Cameron Haber to Alexis Chestnov

Sisterhood – Shalom Baby

Susan Ochman in celebration of the Brit Milah of Samuel Eliot Shrago

Amanda & Greg Parker and Family in memory of Lenore Koster z”l

Tikkun Olam Fund

Jay Hamburger & Cynthia Haddad in memory of:

• Carlton Haddad z”l

• Lillie Hamburger z”l

The Pearl Family in memory of Dr. Robert Rosenzweig z”l

Philip & Wendy Schaefer in honor of:

• the engagement of Josh Parker

• the engagement of Doug Russ & Yael Malul

• the wedding of Steven Sacks

Laura Steinbrecher, Matthew Livigni, and Mikaela Livigni in memory of

Judy Udell in memory of Mel Katz z”l

USY/Kadima/Machar Fund

James Glasser & Sharon Jaffe in appreciation of Rabbi Wiederhorn for blessing

Steven Sacks & Annie Glasser

Michelle Harman in memory of Matthew Milikowsky z”l

We are blessed to have been friends and neighbors with The Conservative Synagogue for so many years... and more to come!

Community

The Mitchell Family

Mosaic Fall 2024

To Transformations

Preserve the Lifestyle You’ve Worked Hard

to Create

Preserve the Lifestyle You’ve Worked Hard to Create

Why Work With AssuredPartners Private Client Group?

Why Work With AssuredPartners Private Client Group?

Lines of Coverage

In This Issue

TCS Scene

Living Water

Finding a Way to Dance Through Tears

Rabbi Jeremy Wiederhorn

Finding Our Jewish Voices

Welcome to the World!

Welcome New Members

Mazal Tov to....

Weddings:

Recent Torah and Haftorah Readers:

Recent Megillah Readers:

Recent Eikah Readers:

Ha-Shirim

Engagements:

THE PRESIDENT

Exciting TCS News

THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

New Features for New Year

TCS Upcoming Events

TCS Judaica Boutique

Holiday Schedule Kehillah Corner

Holiday Schedule Preschool Patter

Looking Ahead

Welcoming Cantor Gedalia Penner-Robinson

Living Water

Member Spotlight: Carol & Allan Wahler

Mazal Tov to Our B’nei Mitzvah

Todah Rabah

What’s Cooking?

Grand Marnier Honey Cake with Salted Caramel Thyme Roasted Plums

Grand Marnier Honey Cake

Salted Caramel Thyme Roasted Plums

The Method

Fun Table Decor

Blondinit: Israeli Food in Westport

TCS Connections at Medical School

Traditions To Transformations

TCS Connections at UConn Medical School

Condolences

TCS Thanks Its Donors, Doers & Daveners

General Fund

TCS Thanks Its Donors, Doers & Daveners

CALENDAR OF UPCOMING EVENTS