Fall 2015 Hard

Bulletin
Fall 2015
■ WHO WE ARE
Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, is a volunteer organization that inspires a passion for and
commitment to its partnership with the land and people of Israel. It enhances the health of people worldwide through
its support of medical care and research at the Hadassah Medical Organization in Jerusalem. Hadassah empowers its
members and supporters, as well as youth in Israel and America through opportunities for personal growth, education,
advocacy and Jewish continuity.
Dear Southern New England
Chapter Members,
I
am delighted to welcome you to Hadassah Southern New England’s
bulletin. For several years, in an effort to be “green,” we had been using
only electronic (e-mail) bulletins, but we realized that we did not have
everyone’s email address, and we therefore were missing each other.
It’s wonderful to be back in touch, literally!
Susan Shikora,
Hadassah Southern
New England
President
“I urge you to join with the
women of your chapter, a
nearby chapter, our region,
and Hadassah Northeast
to enjoy that collaborative
spirit, to learn from and
with others, and to feel the
power of women who do.”
Area Contact
Information
Hadassah Northeast
1320 Centre Street, Suite 205
Newton Centre, MA 02459
ph (781) 455-9055
fax (857) 404-0599
hne@hadassah.org
Hadassah Boston
President: Varda E. Farber
vfarber@hadassah.org
Hadassah Northern New England
President: Carole Greenfield
cgreenfield@hadassah.org
Hadassah Southern New England
President: Susan Shikora
sshikora@hadassah.org
Hadassah Upper Mid-Atlantic
President: Janet Deixler
jdeixler@hadassah.org
2
Kulanu b’yachad. All of us, together. This is how we, as Jews, pray.
We join together to praise G-d, to thank G-d, and to ask for blessing
and mercy. At this time of year, we ask for atonement, as one, as a
community. Our way of prayer, communally, has come down through
the ages and continues to this day, not only because that’s the way we
do things, but also because it works. The sages of past generations
understood this. We humans need each other, in good times and bad,
in celebration, appreciation, and supplication.
Kulanu b’yachad are the words Hadassah’s newly elected incoming
National President, Ellen Hershkin, used as she addressed those of us at
the National Business Meeting and Symposium in Philadelphia. All of us,
together, will further the mission of Hadassah, here in the United States,
in Israel, and around the world. That means each of us is a needed,
valued, important piece of Hadassah’s work to bring about tikkun olam,
repair of the world. I urge you to join with the women of your chapter,
a nearby chapter, our region, and Hadassah Northeast to enjoy that
collaborative spirit, to learn from and with others, and to feel the power
of women who do. Take a look at the calendar of upcoming events for
opportunities to mix and mingle with other Hadassah women.
Kulanu b’yachad. There’s strength in numbers, in terms of advocacy, to
urge our legislators to further a cause that we hold dear, or at a public
event, where our numbers make others take notice of why we have
gathered. You have the chance to add to Hadassah’s strength and our
numbers by giving a gift of free membership, now through December 31,
2015. Do you have a friend, a family member, or a colleague whom you
feel would like to be connected to other women who are passionate
about Zionism and improving the health and well-being of others,
would enjoy the opportunity for personal growth, education, advocacy,
Jewish continuity, and who would be an asset to Hadassah? Go to
hadassah.org/gift or contact your chapter’s membership team
to welcome her to Hadassah.
Kulanu b’yachad. As we prepare to stand together to hear the sound
of the shofar welcoming 5776, I wish each of you, and those dear to you,
a sweet, happy, and healthy new year. Shana tova u’metukah!
B’shalom,
Susan Shikora
Hadassah Southern New England President
NATIONAL NEWS
Mazal Tov Ellen Hershkin!
Delegates at Hadassah's National Business Meeting in
Philadelphia have elected Ellen Hershkin the 26th National
President. She will succeed Marcie Natan on January 1, 2016.
E
llen will be Hadassah’s 26th national president and will
lead our 300,000-member organization through its early
second century, overseeing Hadassah's renowned efforts in
the areas of groundbreaking medical research, support for
Israel, public advocacy and leadership.
As Hadassah continues to evolve, Ellen will be instrumental in
guiding the organization through challenging circumstances
and setting and achieving aggressive programing and financial
goals. She will also play a vital role in attracting new women
to join and advance the organization and in supporting the
lifesaving research and care provided at Hadassah's two
world-renowned hospitals and research center in Israel.
Ellen is currently Coordinator of the PRAZE (Programming,
Advocacy, Zionism and Education) Division. She joined
Hadassah in 1973 and has held numerous leadership positions
throughout the 42 years since then – including National Vice
President, National Secretary, National Chair of Membership Outreach,
National Coordinator of Young Judaea, and many others.
Ellen studied speech and education at Hofstra University and Jewish
studies through a program of the Melton School of Jewish Education/
Hebrew University. She was a travel consultant for 20 years and
specialized in Israel travel.
In accepting the honor, Ellen thanked Marcie Natan for her "tireless
commitment, devotion and leadership to Hadassah" and said she is
"humbled and energized to continue Hadassah's critical work."
Hadassah National President-elect
Ellen Hershkin and current Hadassah
National President Marcie Natan
Outgoing National
President Marcie Natan,
whose term ends
December 31, 2015,
led the organization
for four years,
negotiating the historic
agreement between the
Government of Israel,
Hadassah Medical
Organization and
HWZOA and advocating
on key issues of
national importance.
Hadassah National Board members
congratulate Hadassah National Presidentelect Ellen Hershkin upon her election.
5
Give us a year . . .
Experience the
New Hadassah
SAVE THE DATE
Saturday Evening, November 21, 2015
A Hadassah Northeast Concert
with a special reception for
Keepers of the Gate
Give a free annual
membership to someone
new. Share our power.
featuring Jewish music and more performed by...
Rosalie Gerut, Hankus Netsky and Friends
the power of women who DOTM
Gift online @ hadassah.org/gift or
complete Gift Enrollment Form or
call 800-664-5646.
Gann Academy
333 Forest Street
Waltham, MA 02452
More details to come!
FREE Annual Membership
Life Members or Associates can
give the gift of membership.
Present this priceless gift to:
• Guests at events
• Friends and family
• Prominent women
in your community
Hadassah Missions to Israel
S
tart packing. Hadassah missions offer unforgettable journeys through
Israel, whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced Israel traveler.
Visit Israel soon: it’s fun, surprising, impressive, inspiring and spiritual.
You will come home refreshed and renewed.
Offer valid July 1 - December 31, 2015
Call 800-664-5646 or visit hadassah.org/gift
October 8 - 19, 2015
October 28 - November 7, 2015
for more information.
Takin' it Easy
Israel Mission
led by Marlene Kaplan,
Darlene and
Norman Padnos
Stop and savor every experience as
you move at a leisurely, less physically
demanding pace.
A Unique Trip by Land
and Sea: Mission to Israel
with Optional Rome and
Cruise Extension
led by Sophie Gottlieb
See Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, and the
Eshkol Region, then continue on
for an optional visit to Rome and
optional trans-Atlantic cruise.
The gifting campaign offer is from July 1 - December 31,
2015. Only current Hadassah Life Members and Associates
are eligible to take advantage of this offer to gift a
membership. The gifted member must be a U.S. resident
and at least 17 years old. The gift membership is only valid
for a new member and cannot be used to renew annual
membership. The gifted membership is an annual
membership and runs for one year from the date of
enrollment of the gifted membership.
October 11 - 21, 2015
Mazel Tov to
Kathy Hershfield
Hadassah Southern New England
is proud to announce that
Kathy Hershfield has been
elected to serve on the National
Board of Hadassah as a Vice
President. Kathy is a past
president of our region and
of the Sharon-Stoughton Chapter.
Mazel tov, Kathy!
4
Hadassah Southern
California: The People
& Passion of Israel
led by Sandi Sadikoff
Experience the tapestry of our
homeland as we explore ancient ruins
and modern industries. Volunteer
at an IDF base and, in the Hula Valley,
observe the annual migration of birds
from all over the world.
December 2 - 14, 2015
Central Pacific Coast
Discovery Mission
led by Sandy Sidorsky
Share the wonders of
Hadassah and Israel as we visit
Hadassah Medical Organization and
Meir Shfeya youth village. See the
historical sites of Jerusalem, Safed,
Rosh Pina and Tel Aviv while also
experiencing modern day Israel.
October 18 - 28, 2015
Hadassah Associates:
Modern Life in
an Ancient Land
led by Jeff Richardson
and Fern Tannenbaum
Explore Israeli history, politics,
security and technology as you travel
through Israel's glorious past and
innovative future on an Associates
Mission like no other.
For additional information:
800-237-1517 or
hadassah.org/missions
Check out exciting 2016
missions to Cuba, Poland, Israel
and Amsterdam at
http://www.ayelet.com/hadassah.html
SAVE THE DATE
An Evening with Author Naomi Ragen
Monday, November 2, 2015
Join us to hear Naomi Ragen discuss her tenth novel, The Devil in
Jerusalem. The story – inspired by true events – begins with two
brothers admitted to Jerusalem’s
Hadassah Hospital with horrific injuries
while their mother, a young American,
devoutly recites Psalms at the bedside
and refuses to answer any questions.
The Devil in Jerusalem is a chilling tale
of the paths that so easily lead us astray,
and the darkness within us all.
Co-sponsored by Hadassah Northeast
and Temple Emanuel Sisterhood
in Newton, Mass.
More details to follow.
YOUR EMAIL
PLEASE . . .
One Lucky Member
Wins a Fitbit®
While Hadassah is excited to
launch a series of hard copy
newsletters to be distributed via
mail every fall, winter and spring,
the majority of news will be
communicated on a monthly
basis through email. If you are
not receiving our emails, please
send us your full name, chapter,
phone number and email
to Hadassah Northeast at
hne@hadassah.org and be
entered in a raffle to win a Fitbit.
REGIONAL EVENTS
Old Sturbridge Village
Adds Historical Flair to Greater
Worcester Donor Luncheon
A lovely, successful Greater Worcester donor luncheon was held at The
Old Sturbridge Village facility. Members enjoyed each other's company,
were updated on the Hadassah projects in Israel, and learned about how
women lived in 1830s small-town Massachusetts.
Docent Victoria explained
what life was like for
ladies in the 1830s.
Hadassah explained
The Power of Women
Who DO!
Greater Worcester Chapter members
Maxine Garbo (left) and Isabel Sreiberg
(right), and Hadassah Southern New
England President Susan Shikora (center)
3
Calendar Fall 2015
D E CE MBE R
NOVEMBER
OCTOBER
SEPTEMBER
Southern New England Region
6
7
L A B O R D AY
8
Region Board Meeting at HNE Office
9
Sharon/Stoughton Chapter 2015
Membership Dinner at 6:00 pm Luciano's
on Lake Pearl
14
ROSH HASHANA (NEW YEAR)
15
ROSH HASHANA II
16
TZOM GEDALIAH
20
Hadassah Northeast Walkathon at Chestnut Hill
Reservoir, Cleveland Circle, Brighton;
Registration at 1:30 pm; walk at 2:00 pm
23
YOM KIPPUR
28
SUKKOT I
29
SUKKOT II
30
SUKKOT III
1
SUKKOT IV
2
SUKKOT V
3
SUKKOT VI
4
SUKKOT VII/HOSHANAH RABAH
5
S H M I N I AT Z E R E T/S I M C H AT TO R A H
8
An evening with Image Consultant, Doreen Dove,
Congregation Or Atid, Wayland
12
C O L U M B U S D AY
13
Salon Series on Wise Aging 1:00-2:30 pm
at HNE Office (bi-weekly/6 wks)
21
HNE Panel on Domestic Violence
at Temple Emunah, Lexington
31
HALLOWEEN
1
Regionwide Chai Society Event, Mayyim Hayyim Living
Waters Community Mikveh and Education Center, Newton
at 1:30 pm / Daylight Saving Time ends
2
Salon Series featuring author of Devil in
Jerusalem Naomi Ragen, Temple Emanuel, Newton
8
Hadassah Rhode Island’s 2nd Annual Chai Luncheon
9
Jewish Film Festival, Foxboro screening
11
V E T E R A N S D AY
14
Advocacy Conference at the
Jewish Federation in Albany, NY
15
Advocacy Conference at the
Jewish Federation in Albany, NY
16
Board Meeting at 7:00 pm HNE Office
19
Salon Series with author Tilia Klebnov Jacobs speaking
on “Jewish Characters in Literature,” 12:00–1:30 pm
at HNE Office
21
Hadassah Northeast Concert and Keepers of the Gate
Reception at Gann Academy, Waltham
26
THANKSGIVING
7
H A N U K K A H 1 ( H O L I D AY O F L I G H T S )
8
HANUKKAH II
9
HANUKKAH III
10
HANUKKAH IV
11
HANUKKAH V
12
HANUKKAH VI/ROSH CHODESH TEVET
13
HANUKKAH VII
14
HANUKKAH VIII
22
ASARAH B'TEVET
24
CHRISTMAS EVE
25
CHRISTMAS
31
NEW YEAR’S EVE
Sharon-Stoughton
Chapter Celebrates 70th
Anniversary 1940’s Style
This past May, the Sharon-Stoughton Chapter
celebrated their 70th anniversary. The event’s 70th
anniversary theme highlighted the chapter, Hadassah,
and women in general since 1945 with displays of
covers from past chapter
donor dinner ad book
covers, Hadassah
magazine covers, and
Life magazine covers
featuring fashion trends
and popular actresses of
1945. Very special guest
Iris Jacobs provided
the entertainment.
This year's honorees (pictured left to right) are National
Leadership Award recipients Anne Leppo and Judy
Pomerantz and Sharon-Stoughton Chapter Woman of
the Year Amy Wasserman
The Rashi School Joins
Every Step Counts
for Heart Health
Earlier this year, Hadassah Southern New England
sponsored an Every Step Counts kickoff event
with a walk, advice
and presentation
by cardiologist Dr.
Marshall Katz about
how to improve one’s
heart health at the
Rashi School in
Dedham, Mass.
Needham Hadassah President
Sharon Katz with cardiologist
(and Hadassah Associate)
Dr. Marshall Katz
Annual Greater Borough’s Wine
Event Raises $1K for Hadassah
Hadassah Greater Boroughs Chapter's annual wine event, hosted by
Melissa Mahr and her husband Danny in Westborough this past May,
was a great event and fundraiser for Hadassah.
Meet Southern New England
New Members since
January 2014
We welcome you to Hadassah and
look forward to getting to know you!
NEW ANNUAL
MEMBERS
Framingham-Natick
Chapter
Reesa Cohen
Jane Goldstein
Paula Levine
Noa Mizrahi
Marcia Rothenberg
Greater Boroughs
Chapter
Abra Allexenberg
Michelle Leibowitz
Needham Chapter
Julie Goldberg
Paula Lookner-Markman
Carol Meirovitz
Vicki Shemin
Hadassah Rhode Island
Honors Merry Drench
In May, Hadassah Rhode Island featured the
second annual “Cause for Applause,” a theatre
event to benefit the Merry Drench Scholarship
Fund at Hadassah Academic College. They
honored her lifetime commitment to Hadassah
and to education. Merry was a Past President
of the Chapter and of the Western New England
Region of Hadassah. Her generosity, spirit and
enthusiasm continues on!
Newbridge Chapter
Faye Bussgang
Sue Rodman
Orchard Cove Chapter
Elizabeth Geggel
Left to right are
Rhode Island Chapter
Cause for Applause
committee member
Paula Hurd and
Renee Fullerton,
Chai luncheon chair
Rhode Island Chapter
Barbara Halzel
Toby Liebowitz
Carolyn Roseman
Sharon-Stoughton
Chapter
Shari Engelbourg
Alison Haime
Amy Katz
Sandra Kimmelman
Frances Solomon
South Coastal Chapter
Marjorie Wiseman
30 Signatures and a Successful
Charter Signing Ceremony
for NewBridge Hadassah
The Charter Signing Ceremony for the newly
formed NewBridge Hadassah in Dedham,
Mass. welcomed new as well as life members
and garnered 30 signatures. Hadassah Life
Member Diane Waitz (seated), kicked off
the ceremony with the first signature.
Thanks to Immediate Past National
President of Hadassah Nancy Falchuk,
President Hadassah Southern New
England Susan Shikora, and Hadassah
National Board Member Betty Shapiro
for demonstrating that Hadassah
women DO!
Greater Springfield
Chapter
Sharon Rosenberg
Sudbury-Wayland
Chapter
Sara Greenberg
NEW LIFE
MEMBERS
Framingham-Natick
Chapter
Lyn Cron
Stacy Edinburg
Edith Sussman
Greater Boroughs
Chapter
Janet Lavine
Needham Chapter
Joan Buchbinder
Lisa Sussman
Jackie Waller
Rebecca Winograd
Newbridge Chapter
Caroline Bloomfield
Kim Rosenfield
Judith Rosenthal
Rhode Island Chapter
Beth-Ann Bark
Miriam Ladin
Julie Loffredi
Emily Myles
Joan Reuter
Sharon-Stoughton
Chapter
Tamara Fellman
Tanya Hitter
Stella Langille
Joan Rogens
Jill Sandberg
Dina Waxman
South Coastal Chapter
Abigail Glasser
Ronit Goldstein
Greater Springfield
Chapter
Alizah Barker
Michal Berezin
Naomi Berezin
Rachel Berezin
Hadassah Chelst
Bracha Hasenbush-Levi
Tiferet Hasenbush-Levi
Miriam Lieff
Shari Schwartz
Greater Worcester
Chapter
Linda Rubenstein
Elena SalmoiragoBlotchner
We also welcome new Hadassah Southern
New England members who have transferred
from other regions.
7
1320 Centre Street, Suite 205
Newton Centre, MA 02459
www.hadassah.org
(781) 455.9055
hne@hadassah.org
S AV E T H E DAT E S
Hadassah National Convention
All are welcome
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