L`Shana Tova. We wish you blessings and peace in 5776
Transcription
L`Shana Tova. We wish you blessings and peace in 5776
Volume 157, Issue 2 Elul 5775/Tishrei 5776 September 2015 L’Shana Tova. We wish you blessings and peace in 5776 SEPTEMBER HIGHLIGHTS Beyond the High Holy Days The celebration of the New Year extends beyond Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. The Temple will host a full slate of Sukkot and Simchat Torah celebrations. Perhaps you want to celebrate in your way by building a sukkah. See Rabbi Schultz’s column for ideas, plus the holiday schedule, on Page 5. Back to School September means school is back in session, and that also holds true at Congregation B’nai Israel. Teens can learn about BIFTY on Page 4, parents can check on key religious school dates on Page 6, and we all can meet the new Young Israeli Emissaries, on Page 7. Be “One of Us” The “One of Us” profiles are on hiatus this month, but they will be back in October. We want to include your story. Let us know what brought you to our congregation. Reach out to Bulletin Editor Scott Smith at ssmith@cbibpt. org. More Inside Sharing Our Joy................................. P.2 Sincere Sympathy.............................. P.2 Bulletin Board.................................... P.2 Library................................................ P.4 Donations........................................... P.8 Shabbat Services.............................. P.15 Bonim............................................... P.15 High Holy Days Are Here It is the season of reflection and renewal as we mark Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur this month. Rosh Hashanah begins on the evening of Sunday, September 13 and runs through September 15. Yom Kippur starts with Kol Nidre services on Tuesday, September 22 and runs to sundown the next day. Congregation B’nai Israel again will offer services in both the sanctuary and an outdoor tent. For those desiring an even more natural setting, join us on Erev Rosh Hashanah at 6:00 p.m. on Sunday, September 13 for a service on Jennings Beach in Fairfield. This year’s High Holy Day services mark the debut of our new prayer books, “Mishkan Hanefesh.” The books may look familiar to some, as B’nai Israel helped “test drive” the two-book set (one for Rosh Hashanah, one for Yom Kippur) during its development stage. Rabbi Prosnit offers more details on the book, plus you can learn how to donate to the cause or buy your own set, plus get an early look at the new machzor, on Page 3 of this month’s Bulletin. L’Shana Tova! ADL To Honor Rabbi Prosnit The Connecticut Regional Office of the Anti-Defamation League will honor Rabbi James Prosnit with the 2015 Distinguished Community Leadership Award at a ceremony on Sunday, October 25, at 5:30 p.m. at Temple Israel in Westport. The award is given annually to “outstanding citizens who contribute to building strong communities that are open to all people without regard to race, religion, ethnicity or sexual orientation.” For more information, contact regional office Associate Development Director Janet Magid at 203-288-6500, ext. 313, or jmagid@adl.org. The Connecticut Regional Office is responsible for overseeing the ADL’s operations in the state. From assisting victims of discrimination to reaching thousands with anti-bias education, the ADL’s Connecticut Regional Office impacts public policy and improves our communities. ADL advocacy and programs focus on anti-Semitism and all forms of bigotry, extremism, hate crimes, civil rights, interfaith and inter-group understanding, and peace in the Middle East. Sharing Our Joy Wendy and Don Hyman, in honor of the birth of granddaughter, Sahra Allene Martin, daughter of Emily and Matt, sister of Annelise. Alan and Susan Kasson, in honor of the marriage of son, Adam, to Claire Koenig, and on the engagement of son Michael, to Debbie Kaufman. Charlie and Carol Gursky, in honor of their 60th Wedding Anniversary; in honor of great-granddaughter, Eliza Jane, daughter of Talia and Taylor Brinkman. Ann and Abe Breslow, in honor of the birth of twin grandsons, Carter and Mason, sons of Craig and Kelly. Jerry Saunders and Elaine Appellof, in honor the birth of granddaughter, Zara Bassi Saunders, daughter of Jason and Gina. New Members Welcome! Welcome! A warm welcome to our newest members. We look forward to their participation in our many programs and hope their affiliation will not only enrich their lives, but that of our congregation. Bryan and Jessica Decker, Lucy and Tessa Moody Avenue, Trumbull Brian and Annie Ringelheim, Paige and Emma Bailey Road, Fairfield Andrew and Melissa Katz, Mason and Jaxson Gatehouse Road, Trumbull Amy Sack, and Jack Linley Drive, Fairfield Sincere Sympathy We extend our sympathy to the bereaved families of: Shirley Braverman, mother of Bruce Braverman Robert Small, brother of Peter Small, nephew of Ann Small, and cousin of Jeffrey Small Myron Schlesinger, father of Amy Rich 2 Bulletin Board Mitzvah Mornings Join us once a month for a Mitzvah Morning! We meet on Sunday mornings in the temple lobby for some coffee and snacks, and then head out to our project site. If you are a Religious School parent, you will be back in time to pick up your kids! On September 20, join your fellow B’nai Israel congregants for a morning of social action in the community. This month we will be working outdoors! We are partnering with Urban Roots Bridgeport/Green Village Initiative (www.gogvi.org) to help with their community garden on Charles Street in Bridgeport. Urban Roots Bridgeport manages 24 school gardens and 14 community gardens in the city. Each garden has one bed dedicated for donation to local food pantries to provide fresh produce to city residences. There will be a new garden built later this year at a site on Charles Street. Our help is needed to remove old beds, clear brush, etc. No skills needed! Just a desire to help, be outside, get (a little) dirty and have fun with fellow congregants! We will meet in the Temple lobby at 9:00 a.m. for a quick cup of coffee and a bagel, before heading out for our project. We will work from 9:30 a.m. to Noon (you can drive your own car and leave when you have to). Please contact Shari Nerreau at shari.nerreau@raveis. com or Susy Kamin at susahkamin@ yahoo.com with any questions. Adults and teens are welcome to join us. You can sign up at http://goo.gl/ forms/14JEVJxULA or by contacting either Shari or Susy. We hope to see you then! We are planning our next Mitzvah Mornings for October 25, November 15 and December 24 (afternoon/evening). Watch the Bulletin, Hashavua and the Temple website for more details. A Taste of Merkaz Save the date to honor Marjorie Krubiner, head of Merkaz, at the Taste of Merkaz on Sunday, November 15, at Congregation B’nai Israel. This special evening of adult learning will begin at 6:30 p.m. Merkaz is the Community High School for Judaic Studies, serving a diverse population of area Jewish students in 9th to 12th grades for over 35 years. Merkaz meets weekly on Tuesday nights during the school year, splitting time between Congregations B’nai Israel and Rodeph Sholom. Support Kesher and Keshet and Special Needs Programs “Bike the Beach/Hike the Beach” sets off on Sunday, September 20 at Jennings Beach in Fairfield. Probus Club supports a charity bike tour of 10, 20, 45 or 62 miles or a 5K walk (3.1 miles). All proceeds go to Connecticut residents with intellectual disabilities and local charities such as Kennedy Center. Go to www.bikethebeach.com to register for the ride or walk or to make a pledge. This family-oriented event includes shirts, lunch and a great cause. Bishop Frank Caggiano Visits On Friday, October 23, we welcome The Most Reverend Frank J. Caggiano, Fifth Bishop of Bridgeport, to our synagogue on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Nostra Aetate. Nostra Aetate – Latin for “In Our Time” – was a document from the Second Vatican Council that revolutionized the Catholic Church’s approach to Jews and Judaism. Bishop Caggiano will speak at 6:00 p.m. Shabbat Services, followed by a dinner and conversation. Dinner costs $20 per person, and you can reserve your seat by contacting Chris Rocha in the Temple office at (203) 336-1858 or crocha@cbibpt.org. Keep Your College Students Connected We want to stay connected with your college student(s) and keep them connected with the temple through monthly bulletins, Hashavua emails and holiday surprises! Please send Lynn the mailing and email address of your college student(s) at lynn@cbibpt.org. See full High Holy Day Service Schedule and Food Drive details on Page 16. From the Rabbi’s Desk/Rabbi James Prosnit Meet the New Prayer Books – Part II Along with Rabbi Schultz and Cantor Blum, I am looking forward to introducing you to Mishkan Hanefesh, the New High Holy Day prayer book published by the CCAR. The title, Mishkan Hanefesh, translates to “Sanctuary of the Soul” and is meant to suggest how, on the Holy Days especially, each person’s spiritual quest happens within the holy space of the community. In the Introduction to the books (yes, there are two – one for each Holy Day), the editors write, “We hope that this machzor will be a meeting place for the inner life of each individual, the warm embrace of community, and the sacred traditions of the Jewish people.” My sense is that CCAR has accomplished just that and our new prayer book will inspire us to probe the grandeur and the mysteries of the Days of Awe in important and meaningful ways. The books include updated translations, thoughtful essays, rich commentary, and a beautiful selection of poetry by authors such as Pablo Neruda, Langston Hughes and Henry David Thoreau, integrated with traditional prayers. The editors have tried to be sensitive to our rich liturgical heritage while showing a profound understanding of the contemporary beliefs and concerns of liberal Jews. Creating the new prayer book was a seven-year project, and we were one of the 300 congregations that “test drove” certain services, providing feedback to the editors. I hope you’ll find that the new book strengthens your connection to both Personalize Our New Prayer Books We were able to purchase our new High Holy Day prayer books, Mishkan Hanefesh, through the generosity of several congregants and monies in our Prayer Book Fund. But now that fund is depleted, and we need to replenish it. Please consider honoring or memorializing someone special to you by donating a set of Mishkan Hanefesh bookplates. For a contribution of $36 per set, we will place a personalized bookplate in both the Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur prayer books. To order your bookplates, visit www.cbibpt.org or call Chris in the Temple office at (203) 336-1858. Also, Rabbi Prosnit and Rabbi Schultz will offer a three-part series introducing the new prayer books on Fridays September 4 and September 11 at Noon. The series will include: We also have a limited number of Mishkan Hanefesh sets available for purchase for your personal use. Please contact Chris if you would like one for your home. • A brief history of prayer book reform, from the traditional machzor to the Union Prayer Book and beyond. • What are some of the Mishkan Hanefesh’s most significant changes, and why were they made? • How will some new translations affect our understanding of the classical liturgy? • Will the “left side of the page” readings inspire us or jar us? • New Torah and Haftarah Readings – should we use them? the personal and the communal intent of the Holy Days. There are a few structural changes that you will note in the flow of services. One will be on Rosh Hashanah morning with the sounding of the shofar. Rather than having one lengthy shofar service towards the end of the worship experience, the shofar blasts will be split up and woven into three distinct sections throughout the morning. The rationale for splitting the service this way is to increase the drama and uniqueness of the shofar moments. In considering the change, the editors spent some time discussing the thematic phrase that highlighted the essence of each service. For instance, on the eve of Rosh Hashanah, the message was “Avinu Malacheinu – renew us.” On Kol Nidre, the theme was “I Forgive you, as you have asked.” On Rosh Hashanah morning, the primary intent is to “Hear the call of the shofar.” By weaving the blasts throughout the service, we can spend more time with this centerpiece of our liturgy. As in an Andrew Lloyd Weber musical, the primary theme reoccurs at varying points to heighten the experience. I look forward to seeing if we like how this innovation works. We’ll have a chance to discuss this as well as several other unique elements in the class that Rabbi Schultz and I are offering on Fridays at noon on August 28 and September 4 and 11. We also will welcome your feedback after the Days are concluded. Yes, there will be a bit of a learning curve, but we trust Mishkan Hanefesh will inspire sacred connections for many years to come. Donation Item of the Month: Canned Fruits and Vegetables for the Connecticut Food Bank. 3 Bifty Welcome to BIFTY! You should join BIFTY! WHO: All high school teens! WHAT: Congregation B’nai Israel’s high school youth group WHERE: Congregation B’nai Israel WHEN: Most Thursdays of each month from 7:00-8:30 p.m. in the youth group lounge on the second floor! WHY: Because BIFTY is the best way to have fun and connect to Jewish teens! Still not convinced you should join? Learn more about us! Like “BIFTY” on Facebook! Follow “cbi.bifty” on Instagram! Want to talk to someone more directly? Email one of our presidents or our advisor! ● Becky Molinoff: becky.soccer3@ gmail.com ● Caroline DelAngelo: cgdelangelo@ gmail.com ● Marisa Underberger (Advisor): munderberger@cbibpt.org The B’nai Israel Library Ladies welcome our congregation to the new beginnings of fall and the New Year. May your lives be filled with sweetness, and may your reading of Jewish literature be inspiring, enjoyable and uplifting. To help you achieve this lofty aim, we have some recommendations for your reading pleasure in the coming months. Dara Horn, a favorite author of Jewishthemed historical fiction, wrote an amazing first novel, “In the Image.” This book is perfect for a month of renewals; the characters, theme and settings integrate relationships, self-exploration and the intertwining of spiritual growth with life’s passages. For those of you who enjoyed “The Red Tent,” we recommend another intriguing, entertaining historical novel about a character we’ve heard of but know little about, “Delilah,” by India Edghill. An interesting read, this book takes us right into the world of Samson and the relationship that became so famous. “As a Driven Leaf,” by Milton Steinberg, is a classic example of spiritual conflict in the context of personal loyalties. This historical novel (with some real Talmudic figures and concepts tied in throughout), puts the theme of the struggle to live in two worlds in a meaningful Judaic setting. Everyone should find time to read this! For the younger set, there are so many books that we had a hard time selecting just a few to focus on! “What a Way To Start A New Year!,” by Jacqueline Jules, celebrates a family who has relocated right before Rosh Hashanah. The children are worried that holiday traditions will not be enjoyed, but Dad (who is not Jewish) saves the day! Have you ever wondered why the challah we eat at Rosh Hashanah is round? Well, we have the answer. “How the Rosh Hashanah Challah Became Round,” by Sylvia B. Epstein, is a delightful tale explaining this mystery to us. Find time to read it! Members of BIFTY want you to join them for fun and excitement this year. We look forward to seeing you at our upcoming events, including our Yom Kippur food drive! A Time For Renewal And Reading 4 “New Year at the Pier,” by April Halprin Wayland, is a happy and meaningful story about the ritual of Taslich, The children in the book ask each other for (and grant each other) forgiveness for hurtful things that they have done during the past year, and commit to more positive actions in the coming year. The theme of repentance and forgiveness is charmingly written about in “The Hardest Word,” a Yom Kippur story by Jacqueline Jules. Children are introduced to these difficult concepts in a context they can comprehend. This book ties in well with “New Year at the Pier.” All of these books will be available on the library desk. Please remember to sign the card that is in the back of the book of you select. Print your name and phone number clearly. We wish you and your family L’Shana Tova. ■ The Library Ladies We are on Twitter now! Follow us via @cbibpt. We’ll follow back! From the Rabbi’s Study: Rabbi Evan Schultz A Sukkah in the Round? A Sukkah in the Round? The month of September has arrived – the S’mores display case at the local Target has been replaced by “Back to School” supplies, there are cars lined up along Sport Hill Road, ready to pick apples at Silverman’s Farm, and the fall festival of Sukkot begins on September 27. Sukkot is a wonderful holiday, as we celebrate the harvest, the outdoors and construction paper chains. One way to mark the festival is to construct a sukkah in your yard. The sukkah harkens us back to the temporary booths that the Israelites dwelt in while wandering through the wilderness. It is a wonderful way to observe the festival as a family and to welcome guests into your home. Last year we invited our entire street into our sukkah, and for many of them, it was their first experience inside of one. It was a great opportunity to build a sense of community on our street and to teach others about the Jewish festival. custom and tradition. Perhaps you might like to design and build one this year in your yard. (Let us know if you do; we’ll feature your sukkah on our website and Facebook page.) “ Yes, go ahead and build a sukkah on your boat.” Maybe you’ve always thought about building a sukkah, but the whole three walls and some corn stalks on the roof never sounded that exciting to you. Well, then keep reading! Below you’ll find some creative sukkah ideas from Maimonides (12th century Spanish Rabbi and scholar) that are well within the bounds of Jewish Sukkot & Simchat Torah Services Sukkot Sunday, September 27 Join us for an evening of festive celebration: 5:00 p.m. Sukkah Decorating Hang fruits and gourds, or make and hang paper chains and other decorations. 6:00 p.m. Family Service Rejoice in this new season! 6:30 p.m. Potluck Picnic Bring a nut-free dish that serves eight and stay for dinner. Last names A-L, please bring a side dish, last names M-Z, please bring a main dish. Monday, September 28 10:00 a.m. Sukkot Service 10:00 a.m. Young Children’s Sukkot Program and Service Simchat Torah Sunday, October 4 5:30 p.m. Flag-making Design a flag or banner to wave in the Torah scroll procession during the service. 6:00 p.m. Family Service Sing along with the Junior Choir, dance, march with the Torah, and watch as it is completely unfurled before our eyes. Monday, October 5 10:00 a.m. Yizkor Service The Round Sukkah Yes, a sukkah can actually be round! In his book of Jewish law, Maimonides writes, “A round sukkah – if its circumference is large enough to contain a square seven handbreadths by seven handbreadths, it is kosher even though it has no corners.” Jewish tradition allows for “abnormal” shaped sukkahs, so if you don’t like corners, this is the sukkah for you. Be prepared to invite some friends over, though – Rabbi Yochanan says a round sukkah must be big enough to fit 24 people inside. The Treehouse Sukkah Maimonides writes: “When a person constructs his sukkah among the trees, using the trees as walls, it is kosher if: a) They are strong enough – or he tied them and reinforced them so that they would be strong enough – that they would not be shaken by the wind at all times; and b) He filled [the space] between the branches with hay and straw, tying them so that they will not be shaken by the wind.” Save money at Home Depot; use your trees as the sukkah walls! The Boat Sukkah Maimonides writes: “If a person constructs his sukkah on top of a wagon or on the deck of a ship, it is kosher, and one may ascend to it on the festival” Yes, go ahead and build a sukkah on your boat, ahoy, mateys! Just don’t let it blow overboard! We hope you’ll be inspired to be creative and construct your very own sukkah this year. For more inspiration on creative sukkahs, visit http://www.sukkahcity. com/thecontest.html. Chag sameach! Like Us on Facebook. Visit the Congregation B’nai Israel page and join us online. 5 Adult Jewish Learning At Congregation B’nai Israel Exploring the Sanctuary of the Soul Wednesday, September 23, 1:00 p.m. This High Holy Day season we will begin worshipping with our new Machzor (prayer book), Mishkan Hanefesh. Like our regular prayer book, Mishkan Tefillah, it features a wide variety of sacred texts, poems and readings to enhance our worship experience as we travel the path to spiritual redemption. During the break between morning and afternoon services, join Ira Wise as we study and discuss some of the texts and ideas found inside it. A History of the Jewish People Lifelong Learning, Fridays at noon, October 9, 16, 23, 30 and November 6 Our exploration of Jewish history has taken a slight turn. We now are engaging in area studies. Our focus each semester will be on our people’s experience in one region, from their arrival through the Middle Ages. This fall we will look closely at Germany and Austria. Slichot: The Connecticut Innocence Project: Finding the Power to Forgive Saturday, September 5, Congregation Rodeph Sholom • 8:30 p.m. – Havdalah and Reception, followed by our speaker, Darcy McGraw, Executive Director of the Connecticut Innocence Project • 10:00 a.m. – Service “How does one find the power to forgive after being wrongly imprisoned for many years?” How does one find the power to forgive after being wrongly imprisoned for many years? We will explore this question as we welcome the Connecticut Innocence Project into our community. The Innocence Project was founded in 1992 to assist prisoners who could be proven innocent through DNA testing. To date, more than 300 people in the United States have been exonerated through their work. We will join with Darcy McGraw, Executive Director of the Connecticut Innocence Project, to learn more about their work and the stories of those they have helped to exonerate. Back To School Religious school is back in session this month at Congregation B’nai Israel. Thanks to the High Holy Days, it will be a staggered start for the different grades, with the 7th and 8th grades not starting until Monday, September 28. Here are some key dates for the start of the school year: ● Opening Day – Sunday, September 13 ● Opening Thursday – Thursday, September 17 ● Meet the Morim & Picnic – Sunday, September 20 ● Kitot Daled/Hey Family Program – Sunday, September 27 ● Opening Monday/B’nai Mitzvah Meeting – Monday, September 28 ● Opening Tuesday – Tuesday September 29 6 (203) 336-1858 • www.cbibpt.org The Bulletin of Congregation B’nai Israel is published every month except July. James Prosnit, D.D. ............................ Rabbi Evan Schultz ................................... Rabbi Arnold I. Sher, D.D. ............... Rabbi Emeritus Sheri E. Blum, D.M. ........................... Cantor Ramon Gilbert, D.M. .......... Cantor Emeritus Ira J. Wise, R.J.E. ................ Temple Educator Robert H. Gillette, R.J.E. ... Educator Emeritus Alexa Cohen .......... Early Childhood Director Abby Rohinsky ............... Director of Facility Officers Samuel J. Rosenberg ........................ President Michael Blumenthal .......... 1st Vice President Larry Levine ............................. Vice President Shari Nerreau ........................... Vice President Julie Pressman .......................... Vice President Lori Underberger ............................ Treasurer Jim Greenberg ................. Assistant Treasurer Evelyn Rubak ................................... Secretary Joe Varon .......................... Financial Secretary Mindy Siegel ........... Immediate Past President Affiliates Marisa Underberger ............................................ BIFTY Advisor/Youth Engagement Specialist Becky Molinoff & Caroline DelAngelo ..................................................... BIFTY Co-Presidents Have the kids left home? Then it’s a perfect time to ReConnect with B’nai Israel. Contact Mindy Siegel at msiegel@cbibpt.org. From the Education Center/Ira J. Wise Shalom to Our New Shinshinim This past year we were blessed with wonderful Shinshinim (Young Israeli Emissaries) – Lidor, Yarden and Yuval. By the time you read this, they will be back home in Israel and beginning their army service. Please join me in welcoming our new Shinshinim (Shin Shin stands for Shanat Sherut – a year of service before joining the IDF): Netanel Benami, Gaya Kessler, Mai Merav and Shaked Nisani. The Israeli Young Emissary program is sponsored by the Federation for Jewish Philanthropy of Upper Fairfield County and the Jewish Agency for Israel and our area congregations. The program’s goal is to build a living bridge between Israel’s Afula Gilboa region and our community. Netanel, Mai, Gaya and Shaked are recent high school graduates who have chosen to postpone their army service to spend the year in our community, working with our preschools and religious schools as well as in our adult education programs, local high schools, day schools and the Jewish Home for the Elderly. While all four will work together on community events, they will have primary responsibilities at individual synagogues. Please take the opportunity to get to know these special young ambassadors. Invite them to your home for a Shabbat dinner or to spend a day with your family going apple picking or to a baseball game. Show them a bit about life in the United States and listen as they share their thoughts on life in Israel. Invite them to one of your adult dinner parties and let them share their observations about politics, culture and societal issues in Israel. My family was lucky enough to be a host family for Lidor last fall. He became a part of our family – and not just for the four months he lived in our home. He changed us and we changed him. We now have three sons. From left, Young Israeli Emissaries Netanel Benami, Gaya Kessler, Mai Meray and Shaked Nisani If you are interested in hosting or even inviting any or all of the Shinshinim to have a meal with your family or just spend the day, please call contact Stacy Kamisar at skamisar@jewishphilanthropyct.org or Cheryl Podob at cpodob@optonline. net. Now I will let Netanel, Mai, Gaya and Shaked introduce themselves. Gaya Kessler SHALOM EVERYONE! My name is Gaya Kessler. I am 18 years old from Givatayim, a small city next to Tel Aviv. My mom, Orly, is a fashion designer, and my dad, Eran, is a software engineer. My brother, Ido, is 21; he’s an officer in the Israeli Defense Force. We love traveling on weekends when my brother gets home, and we watch a lot of police drama shows together, such as “Law and Order” and “CSI.” My biggest hobby is probably cooking and baking, and I enjoy painting and going to art exhibits. I am CISV an active volunteer at International, a global organization dedicated to educating and inspiring for peace through building intercultural friendships, cooperation and understanding. It has more than 200 chapters in over 70 countries around the globe. I am also a counselor for groups of kids and teens. My CISV highlight was this summer, when I was chosen to be the Israeli national junior representative for the first-ever CISV Global Conference in Oslo, Norway. My CISV experience has made me who I am today, inspired me as an individual to always think ahead, to initiate, lead and be active at all times. I wanted to become an emissary because, after being so involved with people from different countries, I realized that Israel needs way more representation around the world, so people can see it through their own eyes, not the media’s. It is really important for me to showcase the Israeli culture in a way that will make you guys truly understand what Israel is all about. My goal for this year is definitely to give as much as I can, to create honest friendships that will last forever, and to become a family member in your community! Continued on Page 10 What’s happening at the Temple? Get Hashavua, our weekly email. Send your request to Lynn at lynn@cbibpt.org. 7 Donations Please note that only contributions of $10.00 or more will be acknowledged with a card and Bulletin listing. Rabbi Prosnit Discretionary Fund Ken Berger, in memory of father, Jerome Berger. Karen Brown, in memory of Dr. Robert Small, brother of Peter Small. Sidney Fialk, thank you Rabbi Prosnit. Dan and Terri Green, in memory of Rosalyn Rottman. Janet Jurow, in memory of Muriel Silverman Kannel, mother of Anne Kirsch; in memory of Walter Sonneborn, father of Jon Sonneborn. Alice and George Kelly, in memory of father, Thomas Kelly. Geoffrey and Melanie Kooris, thank you Rabbi Prosnit. Carol Krim, in loving memory of husband, Michael; in appreciation of Rabbi Prosnit. Dee and Lou Landman, in honor of Bernie and Jan Jacobs on the birth of grandson, Julian Bernard Motia. Aleksey and Raisa Ledvich, in memory of grandfather, Max Dovolsky; in memory of grandmother, Adel Dovolskaya; in memory of mother, Emilie Ledvich. Lee Lester, in honor of the birth of Caleb Benjamin Traub Prosnit, grandson of Rabbi Prosnit and Wendy Bloch; wishing a full and speedy recovery to a very dear lady, Debbie Weisman. Theodore and Sue Levy, in memory of Dr. Robert Small. Gale Lubchansky, in memory of beloved mother, Faye Steuerman. Karin Newman, in memory of husband, Jack Newman. Beth and Randy Reich and Family, with thanks and appreciation to Rabbi Prosnit; in memory of our uncle, Jonathan Zimmer. Lis and George Ruderman, with thanks to Rabbi Prosnit. Philip and Suzanne Simkovitz, in memory of Myron Schlesinger, father of Amy Rich. William and Lorraine Smith, with much appreciation. Eileen and Howard Tolk, in loving memory of sister, Helen Cramer. 8 Rabbi Schultz Discretionary Fund David Abbey and Deborah Goodman, in memory of Harriet Abbey. Maxine, Stewart and Jena Gross, in memory of dad/grandpa, Lou Schafrank. Cleo Sonneborn, in loving memory of my mom, Peg Rawdon. Music Fund Andrea Goodman and Jeff Ackerman, in memory of Muriel Silverman Kannel, mother of Anne Kirsch. Lee Lester, wishing a full and speedy recovery to a very dear lady, Debbie Weisman. Karin Newman, in memory of Pauline Newman. Marilyn and Robert Shook, in memory of Sarah Shook, mother of Robert Shook; in memory of Dr. Robert Small, brother of Peter Small. Eileen and Howard Tolk, in loving memory of mother, Justine Tolk. Judy K. Weinstein, in memory of Muriel Silverman Kannel, mother of Anne Kirsch. Enhancement Fund Donations in memory of Myron Schlesinger, father of Amy Rich, were made by: Ed and Luise Mann Burger Jim and Lisa Greenberg Julie and Steve Pressman The Reznikoff Family Twody and Bob Schless Judy K. Weinstein Dr. Norman and Marilyn S. Weinstein Wendy and Jeffrey Bender, in memory of Ruth Bender. Ed and Luise Mann Burger, in memory of Rosalyn Rottman; in memory of Shirley Braverman, mother of Bruce Braverman. Bobby Bresler and Family, in loving memory of Harvey Bresler. Eloise Epstein, in memory of brother, Alvin Turken. Noah Giglietti, thank you to Judy Blumenthal for her help with my Mitzvah project. Jan and Bernie Jacobs, in memory of Shirley Braverman, mother of Bruce Braverman. Alida and Albert Kleban, in loving memory of our father, Joseph Shulkin. Patti and Samuel Rosenberg, in memory of Muriel Silverman Kannel, mother of Anne Kirsch; in honor of Lorraine and Bill Smith’s 60th Wedding Anniversary; in memory of Walter Sonneborn, father of Jon Sonneborn. Twody and Bob Schless, in memory of Muriel Silverman Kannel, mother of Anne Kirsch. Linda and Allan Smardin, in memory of Jack Newman. Eileen and Howard Tolk, in loving memory of father, Samuel Tolk. Lori, Dan, Shira, Marisa and Ally Underberger, in memory of Dr. Robert Small, brother of Peter Small. Dr. Norman and Marilyn S. Weinstein, in memory of Dr. Robert Small, brother of Peter Small. Sylvia Prosnit Adult Education Fund Paula and Bob Herzlinger, in honor of the birth of Sahra Allene Martin, granddaughter of Wendy and Don Hyman. William and Lorraine Smith, in memory of Myron Schlesinger, father of Amy Rich. Judy K. Weinstein, in memory of Dr. Robert Small, brother of Peter Small. Nursery School Scholarship Fund Gloria and David Bindelglass, in memory of Dr. Robert Small, brother of Peter Small. Serena and Arnie Sher, in memory of Myron Schlesinger, father of Amy Rich. Rabbi Martin Library Fund Muggs Lefsetz, in memory of Adam Morris and Harvey Kaster. Prayer Book Fund Lee Lester, wishing a full and speedy recovery to a very dear lady, Debbie Weisman. Samuel Miller and Family, in memory of Dr. Robert Small, brother of Peter Small. Reach more than 700 families. Advertise in the Bulletin. Contact Sam Rosenberg at srosenberg@cbibpt.org. Donations Please note that only contributions of $10.00 or more will be acknowledged with a card and Bulletin listing. Mazon Paula and Bob Herzlinger, in memory of Walter Sonneborn, father of Jon Sonneborn. Joan and Alan Newman, in memory of Abraham Tepper. Religious School Scholarship Fund Linda and Brian Barlaam, in memory of Myron Schlesinger, father of Amy Rich. Joel and Iris Goldfield and Family, in memory of Dr. Robert Small, brother of Peter Small, nephew of Ann Small, and cousin of Jeffrey Small. Judith and Stanley Lessler, in memory of Dr. Robert Small, brother of Peter Small. Rabbi Arnold Sher Social Action Fund Audrey and Larry Bernstein, in honor of the birth of Sahra Allene Martin, granddaughter of Wendy and Don Hyman. Andrea Goodman and Jeff Ackerman, in memory of Walter Sonneborn, father of Jon Sonneborn. Joni and Michael Greenspan, in honor of the 50th Wedding Anniversary of Jan and Dennis Magid. Robert Kandler, in memory of Pat Marchetti and Kay Gennarini. Anne, Mark, Alison and Emily Kirsch, in memory of Myron Schlesinger, father of Amy Rich. Serena and Arnie Sher, in memory of Dr. Robert Small, brother of Peter Small. Elaine and Marc Silverman, in memory of Shirley Braverman, mother of Bruce Braverman. Jonathan Sonneborn, in remembrance of my grandmother, Rose C. Sonneborn. Elaine and Marc Silverman, in memory of Myron Schlesinger, father of Amy Rich. Lee & David Lester Kesher Fund Lee Lester, in thankfulness for all my good health that God has bestowed; congratulations to David and Jessica, and Geoff and Melanie, on the birth of Fina Renee Kooris; in memory of Shirley Deutsch, my ORT member and sister of Gloria Sheiman; in memory of Bernie Schless, longtime volunteer at the Jewish Home for Senior Services and is missed. Vision Loan Reduction Fund Judith and Stanley Lessler, in memory of Myron Schlesinger, father of Amy Rich. BIFTY Greenwald Scholarship Fund Marilyn and George Bissell, in memory of Dr. Robert Small, brother of Peter Small. Barbara Panisch, in memory of Dr. Robert Small. Jim Abraham Education Fund for Jewish Leadership Barbara Abraham, in memory of Myron Schlesinger, father of Amy Rich; in honor of the birth of Sahra Allene Martin, granddaughter of Wendy and Don Hyman. Andrea Goodman and Jeff Ackerman, in memory of Shirley Braverman, mother of Bruce Braverman. Daniel Smith Cemetery Fund Samuel Miller and Family, in memory of Joseph Kot. Arnold & Doris Tower Fund Ellen and Steve Tower, in memory of Myron Schlesinger, father of Amy Rich. Donation Item of the Month: Canned Fruits and Vegetables for the Connecticut Food Bank. 9 Shalom to Our New Shinshinim Continued FROM Page 7 Netanel Benami Hi! My name is Netanel Benami. I am 18 years old. My father is Eli, and my mother is Ariana, and we have a small furniture store. I have two brothers, Nirel, 17, and Liad, 11, and we live in Afula, the capital of the Jezreel Valley. My week is full of interesting activities. On Sundays I broadcast my radio show on Radio-Afula, hosting young bands and artists that play their songs live. Sometimes I play new music and tell the story behind it or talk about current events in my community. This month I said goodbye to my second home, the radio station, to prepare for my “Shnat Sherut” (my next year with you!!). So get ready, I will come in full power! (Spoiler: I wish to launch an internet radio station that broadcasts to Israel and the community) On Tuesdays and Fridays you can find me in the Scouts, where I guide the counseling course. In special events we build amazing things from ״Senadot,” a type of wooden plank that is very easy to build with. I can’t wait to show you the pictures! On Saturdays I travel with my family or search for something to shoot (my biggest hobby is photography). On the others days I travel across the country as spokesman for the National Student and Youth Council of Israel. I am in charge of the Council’s connection with the press. I set the content, design and make videos for campaigns. My biggest achievement is the Students Strike – “Bring the Students to the Trails” – that protested the cancellation of two school trips. The strike is the biggest students’ strike in the world and HALF A MILLION (of 750,000 students in Israel) cooperated to achieve the desired target – the trips were reinstated. I chose to do a Shnat Sherut to increase my sphere of influence and contribution 10 to the community, and also contribute to Israel through the Jewish Diaspora and to the Jewish Diaspora through Israel. I believe that Israel can contribute to Jews around the world, Judaism is the common denominator for all of us, and contributing to each other will strengthen the unity of Jews around the world. Upper Fairfield County, here I come! We’re going to do good stuff together. Mai Merav My name is Mai, and I’m 18. I live in Yoqne’am in the north of Israel. My father, Michael, works as an engineer. My mother, Michal, is a teacher. I have 14-year-old twin sisters, Shir and Lior, and we like to cook and travel together. Lior plays flute, and we enjoy playing together. We also have a cat named Tulip. I just graduated from high school, where my majors were physics and computer science. For the last three years I have been a counselor in the “Tzofim,” the Israeli scouts. I was the counselor of fourth-grade girls, the person in charge of the fifth-grade counselors, and this year I’m the ninth-grade counselor. I was also a guide in a program that helps ninthgraders learn physics. I play guitar and piano, enjoy reading books and travel a lot. My most challenging trip was as part of a Scouts delegation to Greece, where we climbed Smolikas, the country’s secondhighest mountain. I was also on Technion High School’s team to the iGEM competition (International Genetics Engineering Machine). I always knew I was going to be a Shinshinit (young emissary) as I want to contribute to my country, inside or outside of Israel. I believe Israel is not just a country, Israel is a home which belongs to many people all over the world. I have the privilege to live here, and I believe it is important to bring Israel, in my way, to the community. My goal is to build bridges with the community to Israel. Every person is different, and my goal is that everyone will find his or her unique connection to Israel. Shaked Nisani My name is Shaked Nisani. I am 18 from Adi, a small community in the Jezreel Valley. My mother, Galit, is a special education teacher. My father, Sarel, is an electronics engineer. I am the eldest son. I have two younger brothers, Omer, 14 and Liad, 10. Our family usually goes on trips on Saturdays all over Israel, and my extended family usually meets once a week for a Shabbat dinner. In 2013, I took part in a program called “Hands of Peace” in Chicago. It included discussions with teenagers from all over the world about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, many acts of leadership, volunteering in communities and planning activities. My biggest hobby is aviation. I fly airplanes in simulators a lot. I started with it “professionally” a few years ago, but I have liked it since I was about four years old. I also made my English final high school project about aviation. I know I want to be a pilot in the future. I like many sports. I enjoy playing soccer, and I am a fan of Maccabi Haifa. My brothers, my father and I go to watch their games. I like basketball; I watch Maccabi Tel Aviv games in Europe and the NBA games. I have gone wakeboarding in the Sea of Galilee for eight years. I am very excited to join the Jewish Community of Upper Fairfield County. It’s been my dream to be a “Shaliach ShinShin” (Young Emissary). I want to let people know there is a strong Jewish nation named Israel. When I was in America, I was shocked when my host family asked if there are cars in Israel. I want to share with everyone my knowledge about Judaism, Zionism, etc. I expect to meet many new people and make many new friends. Volunteering is very important to me; I always look for new ways to meet new people, connect to the society and help others wherever I can. We want you in the Bulletin! Send your news to editor Scott Smith at ssmith@cbibpt.org. Please Support Our Advertisers Celebrate Deliciously G&H 3,200sq.ft of Creative Ballroom Space Sunday Brunch Dedicated Event Coordinator Attractive Rates for Your Next Event / Room Block! GareliCk & Herbs T H E E xc l u s i v E c aT E r E r f o r MORA MORA Call or Email for more details P: 203.557.8124 | Email: sales@westportinn.com the SPOT FOR PARTIES Contact our Events Specialists at 203.972.4497 • garelickandherbs.com Westport • Southport • New Canaan • Greenwich The following members of the legal community join together in their support of the B’nai Israel Bulletin: Michael Becker Richard Krantz Ken Beck Andrew R. Lubin Eric Broder George Markley Marcia Cohen Daniel Schopick Irving J. Kern Nancy Wechsler Mark A. Kirsch Not Just a Law Firm. Your Law Firm. • Appellate • Bankruptcy • Commercial Finance • Common Interest Communities • Corporate • Elder Law & Long Term Care Planning • Employment & Labor • Land Use & Zoning • Litigation BRIDGEPORT 203-368-0211 DANBURY 203-792-2771 • Matrimonial & Family • Municipal • Personal Injury • Physicians Practices • Real Estate • Securities • Securities Arbitration • Tax and Trusts & Estates • Telecommunications & Utilities WESTPORT 203-222-1034 www.cohenandwolf.com We are on Twitter now! Follow us via @cbibpt. We’ll follow back! ORANGE 203-298-4066 11 Please Support Our Advertisers Hansen’s Flower Shop Family Owned and Operated Since 1920 Shop 24/7 By Phone or Website Bar, Bat Mitzvahs and Weddings Our Specialty (203) 255-0461 SHED THAT SCHMALTZ A Digital Gym 30 DAYS $ 30 A Digital Gym A Digital Gym 447 Monroe Turnpike | Monroe, CT A Digital Gym (203) 445-6110A Digital Gym monroe.kokofitclub.com Amy & Jeff Pressman, Owners 12 What brought you to B’nai Israel? Share your story. Send your “One of Us” story to Scott Smith at ssmith@cbibpt.org. Please Support Our Advertisers 203-371-0805 GEORGE J. MARKLEY ATTORNEY AT LAW Michael J Lehrhaupt, CLTC 12 Cambridge Drive, Suite 100 • Trumbull CT 06611 OFFICE 203-372-4442 • FAX 203-372-5293 • TOLL FREE 888-LTC-Today E-MAIL michael@strategies4ltc.com HERITAGE SQUARE #E8 1700 POST ROAD FAIRFIELD, CONNECTICUT 06824 PHONE (203) 259-1177 FAX (203) 259-0477 The following members of the financial community join together in their support of the B’nai Israel Bulletin: Edward P. Burger, CPA Luise M. Burger, CPA What’s happening at the Temple? Get Hashavua, our weekly email. Send your request to Lynn at lynn@cbibpt.org. 13 Please Support Our Advertisers in our home and yours Jewish Senior Services provides care throughout Southern Connecticut. • Rehabilitation • Home Care • Day Services • Long Term Care • Hospice • Advocacy & Education • Long Term Care Protection 175 Jefferson Street, Fairfield CT • 203-365-6400 • www.jseniors.org Broder & Orland LLC Matrimonial and Family Law One Morningside Drive North Westport, CT 06880 203-222-4949 www.broderorland.com Eric J. Broder ebroder@broderorland.com Carole Topol Orland corland@broderorland.com 14 The following members of the medical community join together in their support of the B’nai Israel Bulletin: Dr. Andrea Hagani Dr. Robert D. Chessin Dr. David F. Bindelglass Dr. Alan M. Nelson Dr. Glenn M. Rich Dr. Michael Sonick Dr. Lawrence Dinkes Dr. Kenneth Rabine Dr. George P. Kelly Dr. Howard B. Twersky Dr. Martha Yepes Small Dr. Jeffrey D. Small Dr. Peter A. Small Dr. Edward Portnay Dr. Michael Connolly Dr. Kenneth Kingsly Dr. Mark J. Hotchkiss Dr. Andrew Levi Dr. Jared Selter Dr. Geoffrey Gladstein Dr. Rachel E. Sheiman Dr. Brian King Dr. Abraham Fridman Dr. Katherine J. Pesce Like Us on Facebook. Visit the Congregation B’nai Israel page and join us online. From The Bonim Preschool/Alexa Cohen A Jewish Experience For The Whole Family As we get ready to start a new school year in the Bonim Preschool, I am reminded of an interesting op-ed – a plan for strengthening Jewish early childhood education that appeared in the Jewish Ledger earlier this year. “Jewish tradition teaches that ‘with each child the world begins anew.’ If we believe this statement from the Midrash is true and that Jewish life and learning offer something special, even inspiring, then we have an obligation to promote Judaism and make it accessible to young families form the moment their first child is born.” The birth of a child is a window of opportunity for engaging families in Jewish life. Jewish early childhood centers like our own Bonim Preschool play a critical role in welcoming the whole family into Jewish life. Through our full-day infant program to our oncea-week parent/child Coffee and Cuddles classes, we are doing just that. “For children, preschool years are a critical time in the development of cognition, personality and identity – including religious identity. In addition, when children enjoy Jewish learning and “When families enroll in Jewish early childhood education centers, we must embrace them and show that they are valued members not just of the Bonim Preschool, but also of Congregation B’nai Israel and the Jewish community … and hopefully keep them here for a long time to come.” rituals at school, they bring them home, often introducing them to the entire family.” Each week all of our classrooms from babies to Pre-K, celebrate Shabbat with yummy challah, grape juice and a special snack that families take turns in bringing each week. will propel them on a lifelong Jewish journey. While educational quality must be high – and is a key factor in selecting a program – studies indicate that Jewish millennials and Gen-Xers who choose Jewish preschools do so primarily because they seek a network of other Jewish parents with whom they can build community. And parents who form Jewish peer groups through their child’s school are more likely to be actively engaged IN Jewish life in the future.” Parent Committee events, Moms and Dads Nights Out and Young Families Havurah help bring the adults together with and without their children. When families enroll in Jewish early childhood education centers, we must embrace them and show that they are valued members not just of the Bonim Preschool but also of Congregation B’nai Israel and the Jewish community. The new Chaverim level of Membership has helped bring more families with young children into the B’nai Israel family and hopefully keep them here for a long time to come. “For parents, a preschool is their first educational choice for their child and SHABBAT SERVICE SCHEDULE (Fridays at 6:00 p.m. where indicated, preceded by an Oneg Shabbat at 5:30 p.m.) Friday, September 4 6:00 p.m. Service Torah Portion – Ki Tavo, Deut. 26:1-29:8 Haftarah – Isaiah 60:1-22 Saturday, September 12 8:00 a.m. Service 9:00 a.m. Brotherhood Breakfast 9:30 a.m. Torah Study 9:30 a.m. Young Families Havurah Friday, September 25 6:00 p.m. Service Torah Portion – Haazinu, Deut. 32:1-52 Haftarah – 11 Samuel 22:1-51 Saturday, September 5 8:00 a.m. Service 9:00 a.m. Brotherhood Breakfast 9:30 a.m. Torah Study 9:30 a.m. Young Families Havurah 11:00 a.m B ar Mitzvah of Jacob Leisawitz, son of Michael and Farhana Leisawitz Friday, September 18 6:00 p.m. Service Torah Portion – Vayeilech, Deut. 31:1-30 Haftarah – Hosea 14:2-10 Micah 7:18-20, and Joel 2:15-27 Saturday, September 26 8:00 a.m. Service 9:00 a.m. Brotherhood Breakfast 9:30 a.m. Torah Study 9:30 a.m. Young Families Havurah 11:00 a.m. B ’nai Mitzvah of Alex and Jackson Weisman, sons of Howard Weisman Friday, September 11 6:00 p.m. Service Torah Portion – Nitzavim, Deut. 22:9-30:20 Haftarah – Isaiah 61:10-63:9 Saturday, September 19 8:00 a.m. Service 9:00 a.m. Brotherhood Breakfast 9:30 a.m. Torah Study 9:30 a.m. Young Families Havurah Donation Item of the Month: Canned Fruits and Vegetables for the Connecticut Food Bank. 15 Non-Profit Org. U.S. POSTAGE PAID Permit No. 171 Fairfield, Conn. Congregation B’nai Israel 2710 Park Avenue Bridgeport, CT 06604 www.cbibpt.org High Holy Day Services 5776/2015 Slichot Saturday, September 5 At Congregation Rodeph Sholom 8:30 p.m. Refreshments and Havdalah 8:45 p.m. Slichot Speaker (See P.5) 10:00 p.m. Service Rosh Hashanah Eve Sunday, September 13 6:00 p.m. Service at Jennings Beach (Weather permitting: Check website or call the Temple if uncertain) 7:30 p.m. Service at Temple Rosh Hashanah Monday, September 14 10:00 a.m. Morning Service (Sanctuary) 10:00 a.m. Morning Service (Tent) 10:00 a.m. Youth Program (Grades K-3) 3:30 p.m. Family Services Rosh Hashanah, 2nd Day Tuesday, September 15 10:00 a.m. Service 12:30 p.m. Tashlich (on Brooklawn Parkway) Cemetery Memorial Service Sunday, September 20 1:30 p.m. in Fairfield and Monroe Kol Nidre Tuesday, September 22 6:30 p.m. Early Service 8:45 p.m. Late Service Yom Kippur Wednesday, September 23 10:00 a.m. M orning Service (Sanctuary) 10:00 a.m. Morning Service (Tent) 10:00 a.m. Youth Program (Grades K-3) 1:00 p.m. Adult Learning 1:30 p.m. Family Services 2:45 p.m. Afternoon Service 4:45 p.m. Yizkor Service (approximate time) 5:45 p.m. N eilah (Concluding) Service A Fast End To Hunger As we fast on Yom Kippur, let’s help those who go hungry by no choice of their own by contributing to the annual BIFTY Yom Kippur food drive. On Rosh Hashanah you will receive a paper bag from one of our BIFTY teens. Please fill it with the instructed foods and return it on Yom Kippur morning. Our teens will be in the parking lot collecting the bags. All food will be donated to the Connecticut Food Bank in Fairfield.