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What’s Entertainment? How about Women in Comedy!It’s hard to believe that we are still debating whether women are funny in the age of Tina Fey, Ellen DeGeneres and Sarah Silverman, and with a come-dic legacy of Lucille Ball, Phyllis Diller and Joan Rivers.

Perspectives is the JCC’s thought-pro-voking speaker series for information seekers and life-long learners. Featuring significant presenters on contemporary topics, this year’s theme “That’s Entertainment!” focuses on the fascinating stories behind the work of performing arts, including musical the-ater and comedy.

Join a panel of women – featuring comedian Robin Fox, author Yael Kohen and professor-columnist-author Gina Barreca, and moderator Binnie Klein of WPKN’s “A Miniature World” – to discuss the ins and outs of women in comedy, including the history, the sociology and the unique challenges that women face in a quest to exhibit their humor.

Thursday, June 6. 7:30 p.m. JCC Vine Auditorium. $12/$10 JCC members. Get tickets at www.jccnh.org, or by calling (203) 387-2522 x300.

Remembering the Days of Bagel Beach:The History of Woodmont

Amongst the beaches of Long Island Sound, you’ll find rich history of a tiny borough in the city of Milford. Since the early 1900s, the Borough of Woodmont has been a popular des-tination for Jewish vacationers escaping the summer heat of New York, New Haven and Springfield, Mass. The name Woodmont came from the nearby trolley stop but the area came to be known casually as “Bagel Beach.”

The Borough of Woodmont was incorporated in 1903. Between 1906 and 1912, a theater magnate named

Sylvester Poli built a stately mansion, Villa Rosa, and several mini-mansions, referred to as cottages, along the shore. As Jews came to summer at the beaches in Milford in 1919, they predominantly occupied the area between Poli Terrace and Morningside. Many rented cottages, bought or built cottages and rooming houses along Merwin, Burwell and Farview beaches.

By 1925, there were over a thousand Jews in Woodmont and some felt the need for a synagogue. According to local Jewish historian Dr. David Fischer, editor of Jews in New Haven (Jewish Historical Society of Greater New Haven, 2005), it was Rabbi Yehuda Heschel Levenberg who held the earliest Jewish religious services at his home on Soundview Avenue in the summer of 1920. Six years later, a building campaign raised enough

money to build a synagogue on land generously donated by Benjamin Rosenthal of Meriden. In July of 1926, the Hebrew Congregation of Woodmont was incorporated.

By 1927, a one-room wooden building designed by Charles A. Abramowitz and built by Jacob Schiff was com-pleted and ready to open at 15 Edgefield Ave. The Hebrew Congregation of Woodmont was the only summer synagogue in Connecticut.

Each year, the JCC’s Summer Institute engages the community with thought-provoking lectures. For Israel’s 65th anniversary, this year’s Institute will focus on several pressing issues facing Israeli society. Exploring these topics as a community strengthens the knowledge of Israel’s sociopolitical landscape and the passion for the country’s future. Summer Institute sessions will be held on July 8, 22, and 29. Times and locations to be announced. Topics will include:

The Future of Peacebuilding in Israel: Marking the 20th anniversary of the Oslo Accords with no peace in sight between Israelis and Palestinians, we will examine the efforts of the grassroots religious peace movement to bridge divides between Muslims, Christians, and Jews through groups including Jerusalem Peacemakers, Eretz Shalom, the Sulha Peace Project, and the singular work of the late Rabbi Menachem Froman. We will be joined

by Rabbi Marc Gopin, Director of the Center on Religion, Diplomacy, and Conflict Resolution at George Mason University’s Institute for Conflict Analysis and Resolution and the author of Bridges Across an Impossible Divide: The Inner

Lives of Arab and Jewish Peacemakers and Holy War, Holy Peace: How Religion Can Bring Peace to the Middle East.African Refugees in Israel: Thousands of Africans are seeking refuge in Israel – what’s the impact and what challenges does it pose to Israel? How are various

aspects of Israeli society, dealing with the issue, and could efforts be improved? Join a discussion about how Israeli law, international law, and Jewish law impacts the issue of absorb-ing and caring for refugees, and how this might impact the future of Israel. The discussion will be led by Jimmy Taber of the New Israel Fund and members of Right Now: Advocates for African Asylum Seekers in Israel.

Institute continued on page 9

2013 JCC Summer Institute: Focus on Pressing Israeli Issues

Rabbi Marc Gopin

Women’s Philanthropy and JFS Launch Kids Lunch ProgramHunger doesn’t take a break on the weekend. In Connecticut, nearly one child in five is hungry or does not get enough food. Women’s Philanthropy of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven and Jewish Family Service of New Haven are joining forces to address this situation and to provide nutrition by launching Food4Kids, a program pro-moting healthy bodies and minds.

The program aims to provide first graders and their siblings at the East Rock Community Magnet School with a bag of food each Friday to sustain them through the weekend. Most of these children are from low-income house-holds and are chronically hungry.

The program features bags, designed to discreetly tuck into backpacks, which contain kid-friendly foods that are easy to open and eat, such as shelf-stable milk and cheese, dried fruit, nut-free granola bars, fruit and pudding cups, beef jerky, cereal, juice boxes, tuna, and crackers.

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Visitors lounge on Bagel Beach circa 1960.

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Published by the Jewish Federation of Greater New HavenDonald S. Hendel - President Sydney A. Perry - Chief Executive Officer

Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven360 Amity Road, Woodbridge, CT 06525, 203 387-2424 - fax: 203 387-1818jfgnh@jewishnewhaven.org / jewishnewhaven.org

Editorial Committee: Shelley Gans, Jennifer Gelband, Hilary Goldberg, Ruth Gross, Lauri Lowell,Tanya Weinberg. Design: Debbie Stach. Production: Alan Falk.

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By the time you read this, the 2013 Annual Campaign will be well over $2,000,000. We got there the old fashioned way: one donation at a time. It takes a lot of hard work by community volunteers and a hard-working and com-mitted staff.

There is a rhythm to how many donors participate in the annual campaign. For some it’s the Rosh Hashanah mailing, for some it’s the Hanukkah mailing and for others it is the call they receive on Super Sunday.

This year we’ve added phone nights and brought in volunteers to a site to try to make it easier for the community to come out and lend a hand in helping to make our Campaign a success.

We also have a cadre of your neighbors who take it upon themselves to do face-to-face solicitations. Unfortunately, that number has been shrinking over the past few years. This is a problem for many Jewish organizations, agencies and synagogues. But the Federation is here to help; we can assist with solicita-tion training with our organizations – just ask.

The best way to understand just how our donations help people is to see our money in action. Come with us on our Mission to Israel this November 12-22. Not only will you meet some of the recipients of our aid, but you will share the excitement with fellow New Haveners. There is no better way to be proud of your commitment to our Jewish community. But if you can’t join us in November, you can still visit one of our local agencies and learn about how your commitment to the community is making a difference.

If you have already made a commitment to the 2013 Annual Campaign, thank you. If not, please consider doing so before July 31. All you need do is call (203)387-2424 or visit www.jewishnewhaven.org.

Campaign UpdateBy Gary Geller, Chief Development Officer

JCC’s Greenberg Honored with Basketball Award On March 19, the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials in New Haven County (known as IAABO Board 10) presented Allan Greenberg with the Honorary Lifetime Membership Award. This prestigious award is presented each year to a member who has contributed significantly to the game of basketball and is a staunch proponent of good sportsmanship.

Greenberg was recognized for his long service to the game of basketball and to the JCC of Greater New Haven. Greenberg began his career at the JCC in 1975 as director of athletics and has been instrumental in the growth of the JCC basketball programs, including biddy basketball and creating new leagues and opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to play throughout the year.

Under Greenberg’s leadership, the JCC’s offerings extended well beyond basket-ball with softball, tennis, volleyball, racquet ball, dance classes, swimming, and exercise and fitness programs.

“Allan has always been a true friend of officials. He insists on good sportsmanship on the part of all players and coaches in all of his leagues,” said Board 10 presi-dent and 13-year basketball official Ken Devoe. “Allan has given a great deal to the game of basketball and to all of us officials. Plus, he’s one of the nicest people on the planet, and our highest award could not go to a more deserving individual.”

A joint Israeli-Palestinian research team did a study to find out how Israeli school books portray Palestinians and vice versa. What was meant as a small step toward peace stirred up a hornet’s nest of controversy in Israel and around the world.

The idea, conceived by the Council of Religious Institutions of the Holy Land, grew out of the Council’s commitment to provide leadership in education for peace.

First, the Council needed to know the content of the current school books read by Palestinian and Israeli children. Did they misrepresent and vilify the “other” through abhorrent depictions and char-acterizations?

Dr. Bruce Wexler and the Council, for whom he serves as facilitator, designed and managed the study. They secured an advisory panel of world experts in textbook analysis and leading Israeli and Palestinian academics to oversee the study and arranged for U.S. State Department funding.

Asked why the study has caused such a stir, Wexler said that the intensity of the controversy was a surprise to him and the other researchers. “We have done

one of, if not the most thorough and objective study of textbooks ever done.” He noted that the international scien-tific advisory panel had representation from across the political spectrum; they

reviewed and contributed to study methods from start to finish and unanimously agreed with the description of the findings in the pub-lished report.

“The only answer I have about the controversy is politics,” Wexler said.

Wexler is founder and presi-dent of A Different Future, a non-governmental organiza-tion dedicated to helping

end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by amplifying voices of moderation in pub-lic discourse.

Presentation: The ‘Other’ in Israeli, Palestinian School Books

Dr. Bruce Wexler

Wexler will discuss the study on May 7 at 7:30 p.m. at the JCC.

The event is sponsored by the Jewish Community Relations Council and Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven and is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Lauri Lowell, JCRC director, at (203)387-2424 x318 or jcrc@jewishnewhaven.org.

“Although we have volunteers lined up to shop for the items and fill and deliver the bags to the school each week, additional volunteers will be needed,” said Chairperson Debbie Epstein.

“We can feed a child in New Haven every weekend during the entire school year for $200. Students who have participated in such a program in other parts of the country show marked improvement in school attendance, test scores, and health,” said committee member Beverly Levy. “We invite our community members to get involved, do a mitzvah, and reach out to those less fortunate.”

For more information or to volunteer, contact Enid Groves at egroves@jewishnewhaven.org.

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sydney A. PerryChief Executive Officer

“In Israel, in order to be a realist, you have to believe in miracles.”

– David Ben Gurion

“At Basel, I founded the Jewish state,” wrote Theodore Herzl in his diary after the First Zionist Congress in 1897. “If I said this out loud today I would be greeted with universal laughter. In five years, perhaps, and certainly in fifty years, everyone will perceive it.”

In fact, only fifty-one years intervened between that first Congress and the State of Israel’s Declaration of Independence on May 14, 1948. What began as an eva-nescent movement – whose most ardent supporters never believed that the object of Jewish sovereignty in Palestine would be achieved in their lifetime – became a national movement that shaped a society and nation and built a dynamic modern state with a vibrant society and culture.

The re-establishment in 1948 of a sovereign state in the land of our ancestors reversed a long history of powerlessness. Rising like a phoenix from the ashes of the Shoah, with Jews from almost every corner of the world and multivalent cul-tures, Israel is a collective affirmation of the refrain Am Yisrael Chai!

The nation of Israel is 65 years old, but the story of how the Third Commonwealth came into existence encompasses nearly 6,000 years of Jewish history. As Herzl proclaimed, it is an “old-new” land, as ancient as the sand that blows across the mosaic tiles at Masada, as old as the gnarled olive trees that dot the country, and as eternal as the basic tenets of Judaism that forged our identity and our aspira-tions, upon which the nation was founded. It’s a miracle!

It’s a tale of a nation’s will to exist against all odds, a will to survive in the face of adversity. It is a story of religious faith, of pioneering spirit, of ingenuity, creativ-ity, and purposefulness that turned a desert, a virtual wasteland, into a thriving modern nation, a dead language into a living one, millions of ragged, rejected, shattered refugees into a proud people. The promised land of milk and honey with more promises still to be fulfilled.

“This is a nation of museums and patents, timeless holy sites and ground-breaking innovation. Only in Israel can you see the Dead Sea Scrolls and the place where the technology on board the Mars Rover originated at the same time,” President Barak Obama said on his recent trip to Israel. It is a place with a sacred past and a glorious future.

How probable is it that this tiny people, exiled from their land for almost 2,000 years, numbering less than one-fifth of one percent of the world’s popula-tion, should have outlived the world’s greatest empires – the Egyptians, the Babylonians, the Greeks, the Romans – who tried to destroy us, and still we sur-vive to stand and sing Ha-Tikvah, “a free people in our own land” in the world’s toughest neighborhood. It’s nothing short of miraculous.

The early Zionists were determined to throw off the image of the Diaspora Jew – physically weak, a stranger to nature and working the soil, bourgeois, and shack-led by their religious faith. They fashioned their own new symbols, were driven by a utopian vision, and imagined themselves as the “new Maccabees.”

In his poem “They Say There is a Land,” poet Saul Tschernichovsky writes: “A mira-cle did not happen to us.” These Israelis did not believe in miraculous redemption; they believe in making miracles.

Israel’s establishment and existence was and is accompanied by conflict and with wars. It is a contentious society, with serious struggles within various sectors, eco-nomic, religious and educational disparity. Yet, within a little more than a half a century, Israel has built a nation, gathered in Jews from around the world, created a vibrant democracy with arguably the most self-critical media in the world, a mod-ern economy, an impressive defense force, a flourishing and rich cultural life and stands in the forefront of scientific and technological research.

Herzl said, “If you will it, it is no dream,” but he could never have dreamed of Israel’s many achievements.

Israel’s 65th anniversary is cause for celebration and rejoicing. Then we must turn to ensuring that the problems that bedevil Israel are remedied.

Israel can make peace and live in peace with the Palestinians and her neighbors, with the same courage and resolve with which the nation was built. That, too, will be miraculous and a fulfillment of the words of the prophets of yore.

“Then shall yet old men and old women sit in the broad places of Jerusalem...and the squares shall be filled with boys and girls at play...And I will bring them, and they shall dwell in Jerusalem, and they shall be My people and I shall be their God, in truth and in righteousness.” (Zechariah 4-8)

Woodbridge Honors JCC with AwardThe JCC will be presented a Special Human Services Recognition Award at the Woodbridge Human Services 25th Annual Volunteer Tea on Thursday, May 9.

The JCC is being honored for exemplary service and unending generosity for offering showers and food to those affected by hurricanes Irene and Sandy. The JCC has been an integral part of the community assisting residents in need during these times when the majority of the town has been without power.

The JCC is a welcoming 106,000-square-foot facility that features an all-acces-sible indoor pool, four racquetball courts, two full basketball courts, fitness cen-ter, women’s and men’s spas, locker rooms and more, and serves as a neigh-borhood crossroads and a common meeting ground.

SCHA Students Take Top Honors at State Science Fair

For the fourth consecutive year, Southern Connecticut Hebrew Academy’s science teacher Karen Howell has guided her students to first- and second-place victories at the Connecticut State Science Fair. Nine eighth-grade students competed in the 65th Annual event held March 12-16 at Quinnipiac University.

This year, the first place went to Batsheva Lipsker and Devora Hodakov, whose project “Analysis of Arsenic in Food from Natural Produce, Effect on Cell Bioavailability, and Effect of Chelators on Absorption” won the Pfizer Life Sciences First Place Award in the Life Sciences Middle School Team category. Each student received $100, a trophy and an invitation to the Broadcom MASTERS competition. This project also received the Alexion Biotechnology Fourth Place Award for Biotechnology eighth grade, a special award from the U.S. Air Force, and was named a Middle School Finalist for the Environmental Sciences Awards with Connecticut Association of Conservation and Inland Wetlands Commissions (CACIWC).

Yehudah Russell’s project “Analysis of Allelopathic Effect of Grasses on Common Weeds” won the Pfizer Life Sciences Second Place Award in the Life Sciences eighth grade category. He received $200, a trophy and an invitation to the Broadcom MASTERS competition.

Each of the other four projects submit-ted also received awards:

Physical Sciences – Middle School Eighth Grade Category

Esther Katz was a finalist in the Dominion Millstone Power Station Physical Sciences for “Comparison of Absorption Rates of Natural vs. Artificial Sugars and Effect of Antioxidant Spice Enhancers on Absorption Rates.”

Physical Sciences – Middle School Teams Category

Chana Piekarski and Esther Caroline were finalists in the Dominion Millstone Power Station Physical Sciences Awards for “Analysis of Fabric Flammability Rates and Effect of Chemical Flame Retardants, versus Effect Natural Flame Retardants.”

Honey Rogoff and Sophia Ting were named finalists in the Dominion Millstone Power Station Physical Sciences Awards for “Effect of Plastic on Food Evaporation, Nutrient Value, Oxidation, and Antioxidant Levels.”

Life Sciences – Eighth Grade Category

Ruben Melka won the First Place Junior Award from Project Oceanology for “Quantitative Analysis of Nitrate and Phosphate Runoff Pollution on Long Island Sound, Marine Life, and Hypoxia.”

Howell teaches art and science to stu-dents in kindergarten through eighth grade, math to middle school students and is the mentor for the Connecticut State Science Fair and the Christopher Columbus Award. She has more than forty years of teaching experience and has received numerous awards including the Connecticut Science Teacher Association Teacher of the Year Award, 2002.

Southern Connecticut Hebrew Academy is located at 261 Derby Ave., Orange. For more information, call (203) 795-5261.

SCHA students left to right: Bat Sheva Lipsker, Chana Piekarski, Esther Caroline, Honey Rogoff, Sophia Ting, Hasassah Katz, Karen Howell, Devorah Hodakov, Yehuda Russell, and Reuben Melka.

2013 Women of Vision grants AvailableWomen of Vision Society awards grants to support Jewish women’s programming and projects of concern to the Jewish home and family. This year, grants up to $8,078 are available to our community. Please note, these are small grants and are usually awarded in the amount of $300 to $3,000. 2013 Women of Vision Society grant applications are available at www.newhaven-jewishfoundation.org, and are due no later than 4 p.m. on May 24, 2013. For information, contact Lisa A. Stanger, Esq., Director, Jewish Foundation, lstanger@jewishnewhaven.org or (203)387-2424 x382.

Fifteen years ago, Judy Skolnick had a life-changing experience and has been changing the lives of others through philanthropy ever since. Her most recent act of generosity was to create a Lion of Judah Endowment (LOJE) at the Jewish Foundation, which will perpetuate her Lion of Judah level gift to the Jewish Federation Annual Campaign. Skolnick established her LOJE by gifting a life insur-ance policy to the Jewish Foundation.An experience on a March of the Living mission planted the seed for this endowment. Skolnick vis-ited Auschwitz-Birkenau in Poland and then traveled to Israel with more than 200 women and 6,000 teenagers from across North America. Skolnick returned from the trip with vivid images of the horror that occurred in the concentration camps, and with a greater commitment to Israel, her Jewish identity and involve-ment in her local Jewish community.“I was so impressed by the women I met in Israel, their immense generosity and dedication, that I felt I needed to do more back home,” Skolnick said. “It was both an eye opening and inspiring time for me.” Her inspiration quickly became action.Skolnick always finds ways to contrib-ute to the community. She is past board

member of Congregation B’nai Jacob and a past chair of their Sisterhood. Within the Federation, she served as a Campaign chair and as chair of Women’s Philanthropy. Skolnick cur-

rently sits on the boards of the Jewish Federation and Ezra Academy and partici-pates on various event committees.

Her contributions have not gone unnoticed. This September, she was honored by the Jewish Federations of North America in New York City with the Kipnis Wilson Friedland Award, which recog-

nizes Women of Valor who have set a high standard for philanthropy, volun-teerism and commitment to the Jewish world. Skolnick credits the past New Haven Kipnis Wilson Friedland Award recipients for inspiring and teaching her about philanthropy— Lucille Alderman, Barbara Greenberg, Betsy S. Hoos, and Marcia Reiter, all of whom have also established Lion of Judah Endowments at the Jewish Foundation.

Skolnick would love to encourage oth-ers to learn about the many opportuni-ties available to make this endowment possible. Please consider joining the LOJE Women to ensure a strong future for the Jewish community.

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Judy Skolnick Endows her Lion Women’s Center Continues Work Thanks to Women of Vision Society GrantThe Women of Vision Society of the Jewish Foundation of Greater New Haven was founded in 1996 to enhance the quality of life for future generations of Jewish women and their families. Their reach extends from greater New Haven to Israel and around the world. It is especially noteworthy that for the second year in a row, the Women of Vision have assisted in funding Jewish Family Service of New Haven Women’s Center.

“Last year, when we were honored with the Women of Vision grant, our purpose was solely on how the poor economy was impacting women,” said Rachel Scolnic Dobin, social worker at Jewish Family Service. “We focused on how to help provide vocational assistance for women re-entering the workforce. During that process, we realized that jobs were only one piece of the puzzle. Today, women need assistance on many fronts.”

Motivated by the discovery, JFS con-ceived a strategy to provide a more holistic approach to women’s initiatives.

“We knew we needed to do more,” Scolnic Dobin said. “For example, recently divorced women, who were basically homemakers for over 25 years, face an entire life change beyond the need for employment. We were so grate-ful to receive continued funding from Women of Vision that allowed us to broaden the scope of our programs.” The funding allows JFS to provide a safe and confidential place for women to receive counseling as needed. One-on-one case management and group workshops are also planned. Now, whether it is vocational guidance for the unemployed or those seeking to re-enter the workforce, therapeutic servic-es or learning new skill sets, JFS serves as a friendly, professional harbor and resource for women as they navigate major life transitions.

Women of Vision Welcomes New MembersThis past year, the Women of Vision Society welcomed new members Ina Berson, Cis Serling and Carol Sirot. The Women of Vision was created by 100 women who each contributed a minimum of $1,000 to establish the original endowment. To date, more than $119,000 in grants has been awarded.

It’s never too late to learn some-thing new. At any age you can learn new computer skills, social media, a new language, American history, or Jewish history and tradition. Two local seniors deserve congratulations for recently passing the United States citizenship test at ages 85 and 84.

For many people, particularly those who live alone and far from their families, social networking offers new opportunities to stay in touch, share photos, make new friends or recon-nect with old ones. Seniors, some in their 90s, are making new friends using computers, thanks to the New American Acculturation Program, which offers help to the elderly from the former Soviet Union to brush up on – or get started with – social net-working skills.

The JCC in Woodbridge and the Lina Adult Center in Hamden have comput-ers with English and Russian letters. Seniors use the opportunity to commu-nicate with people around the world.The New American Acculturation Program offered a variety of programs in winter and spring, including citizen-ship and computer classes, educa-tional workshops, lectures in Russian, and Jewish holiday celebrations in Stamford and New Haven. Groups traveled to Hartford to see Mikhail Baryshnikov in Chekhov’s tale of humor and despair, “Man in a Case.”

The State of Connecticut Department of Social Services, Women of

Vision Society, Jewish Federation Association of Connecticut and the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven provide funding and grants for the programs that reach the Russian-speaking community both within and beyond the walls of Jewish institutions. Those organizations help to organize programs for all groups of immigrants: seniors, women, children, families.

The New American Acculturation Program will hold another educa-tional workshop in May, a 100th birthday party for the lovely and ener-getic Joseph Vinnitsky in June and an Independence Day celebration in July.

For more information about the pro-gram, including sponsorships of specific programs, contact Yelena Gerovich at (203)387-2424 x321 or ygerovich@jew-ishnewhaven.org.

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New American Acculturation Program

Ninel Stankevich becomes an American citizen.

Each year, the Connecticut Council for Philanthropy recognizes an individual who has demonstrated leadership in encouraging private action for the public good in Connecticut with the John H. Filer Award – established in 1997 to honor the memory of an indi-vidual who inspired his peers by example and urged the nation’s busi-ness leaders to accept the responsibility of cor-porate citizenship.

Andy Eder, a business-man whose resume is rich with experi-ence and generosity in community ser-vice, is the 2013 recipient of the John H. Filer Award. Eder possesses a cre-ative spirit and serves as a model and inspiration to others in promoting philan-

thropy and solving societal problems.

Eder was past president of the JCC of Greater New Haven and Tower One/Tower East. As founder in the Eder Leadership Institute, he provides development and leadership training to current and future Jewish community leaders. He has been honored for his commitment to the community by the Jewish Federation, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, the ADL with its Torch of Liberty Award,

and the United Way. Eder-related foun-dations have contributed to numerous causes and non-profit agencies. Eder is also very involved with PJ Library, Jewish Scholarship Initiative and Adopt a Survivor.

Philanthropy Council HonorsAndy Eder with John H. Filer Award

Women’s Network participants listened, shared, socialized, and came together as one community with financial expert Galia Gichon. Pictured left to right: Susan Abramson, Karyn Reichbind, Wendy Lepson, Linda Gotlieb, Ana White, and Vivian Kantrow.

Dollars & Sense

Yelena Gerovich and Olga Markus run an educational workshop at the JCC.

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JCL Volunteers Visit Art Museum

JCRC and Legislators Discuss State Priorities at Legislative BreakfastThe Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) hosted a legislative breakfast attended by 30 Greater New Haven state legislators and Jewish community leaders on March 21. JCRC Government Affairs Chair Fay Sheppard moderated the event.

Communal professionals discussed priority funding issues, including social services, neighborhood assistance, and tax abatement.

These presentations were given by Dr. Jonathan Garfinkle, executive director of Jewish Family Services; Bob Fishman, executive director of the Jewish Federation Association of Conn.; and Mark Garilli, CEO Tower One/Tower East; respectively.

Hon. Elaine Braffman, JCRC Israel action chair, made an argument for passage of an Iran contract restriction bill to bring Connecticut into compliance with U.S. government sanctions against Iran and its nuclear industry.

JCRC lay leaders then addressed several issues that have received considerable local attention in recent months, includ-ing the need for expanded mental health programs, the JCRC’s past involvement in immigration reform, a public safety issue requiring all Connecticut motorists to be licensed and insured, and a statewide pol-icy to safeguard civil rights of all resident immigrants regardless of their status.

The legislators responded with cautious enthusiasm to the concerns.

Linda Friedlaender, Curator of Education for the Yale British Art Museum, hosted the JCL Volunteer Reading Partners to experience the same program that third graders expe-rience in New Haven public schools.

Picture books are the earliest link-age of pictures with stories and using words to describe what is seen and develop a story.

The group first described a painting in as much detail as possible. When a thorough visual inventory of the painting was complete, the group inter-preted the narrative in the painting. All conclusions were grounded in visual material found in the painting. Studies show that children who practice these visual literacy skills become more skilled writers and readers.

Try to read a picture: is it a rising sun or setting sun? What evidence does the viewer have for their statement? We think we’re seeing the same thing as others, but until we name it we do not know what the other person is see-ing. JCL Reading Partners are looking forward to working with their students in ways the docents encouraged, and are excited about returning to the museum to experience more.

JCL Reading Partners touch the world, one child at a time, by sharing the plea-sures of reading and conversation, and giving their students the opportunity to practice their English language skills.

Contact Brenda Brenner at bbrenner@jew-ishnewhaven.org or 203 387-2424 x308 to learn more about volunteering one hour a week. No experience is needed.

Greater New Haven Jewish community leaders and state legislators meet to discuss priori-ties: (left to right) Rep. Gary Holder-Winfield, Rep. Toni Walker, Allan Hillman, Sen. Gayle Slossberg, Fay Sheppard, Sen. Toni Harp, Hon. Elaine Braffman, Mark Garilli, Bob Fishman, Milt Wallack, and Jonathan Garfinkle.

On April 8, a small delegation of Jewish community leaders met in New Haven with Natan Sharansky, chairperson of the Jewish Agency for Israel. Sharansky, a former Soviet refusnik, had been asked by Prime Minister Netanyahu to seek a compromise for the current challenges of prayer for women at the Kotel. Sharansky visited Yale to meet with Jewish students. He also met with (pictured)Rabbi Joel Levenson of Congregation B’nai Jacob; Professor Dan Prober; Dr. Milton Wallack, former President of the Federation; Natan Sharansky; Joel Karp, former President of the Federation; Sydney Perry, CEO of the Federation; and Rabbi Michael Farbman of Temple Emanuel. Perry emphasized that a bold plan was needed to address the right of all who wish to pray at the Kotel.

Women’s Philanthropy of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven

Spring Events Thursday, May 9, 2013 I 7:15 p.m.

Tapas Party Night!at the Gourmet Chef’s Equipment Emporium

449 Boston Post Rd., OrangeRegistration required . $36 couvert: (Kashrut observed)

$54 Evening sponsor Suggested $180 minimum gift to the 2013 Annual Federation Campaign

Thursday, June 6, 2013 I 5:30 p.m.-7:15 p.m.

A Celebration of Women’s Philanthropy

Lion - PomegranateDinner Reception at a private home

(Directions upon registration)

Followed by

Women in Comedy 7:30 p.m. I Vine Auditorium, JCC

Couvert: $54 (Includes cost of Women in Comedy program) Kashrut observed

A $1800 minimum commitment to Women’s Philanthropy of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven 2013 Annual Campaign

Wednesday, June 19, 2013

Cool Reads for Hot Days Summer’s best books with Roxanne Coady

6:30 p.m. Light Dinner I 7:30 p.m. Presentation Private Home (Directions upon registration)

Couvert: $36 (Kashrut observed)Evening Benefactor:$54 . Reservations Requested

Presented by The Women’s Network part of Women’s Philanthropy and Women of Vision Society of The Jewish Foundation

RSVP: Enid Groves (203) 387-2424 x267 or register online: www.jewishnewhaven.org

JCL’s Volunteer Appreciation Reception Guest Speaker: Mary Ann Hoberman

Wednesday, May 22, 9:30 a.m. • JCCRSVP to bbrenner@jewishnewhaven.org

JCC LIBRARY - SUMMER HOURS Mondays 1:30-4:30 p.m.

Wednesdays 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.Fridays 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.

The Jewish Teen Funders Network (JTFN), a youth philanthropy project of the Jewish Funders Network, has awarded grants to 38 Jewish summer camps around North America, one of which is Camp Laurelwood.

Camps that participate in the Camp Philanthropy Program receive $1,000 of funding and leadership training to develop high-quality teen philanthropy programs. The participating camps will create a Jewish teen foundation in which campers work together as a “foundation board,” to give away real money to nonprofit organizations of their choosing.

These programs empower and educate teens about effective philanthropy and Jewish values, and JTFN will work closely with grantees on program devel-opment and staff training.

Philanthropy is not a new concept for Camp Laurelwood in North Madison, Conn. Just last summer, campers and staff participated in a home-grown philanthropic swimming program called

“One Lap, One Wish” that helped send handwritten wishes to children in Hadassah Hospital in Israel and raised money to plant a tree garden outside the hospital.

Also for the summer of 2013, Camp Laurelwood has been invited back by the Foundation of Jewish Camp to again participate in the Cornerstone Fellowship Program in which exem-plary returning staffers are selected to partake in Jewish educational training to implement the vision and mission of the program and truly become the Jewish Cornerstones of their camp. Over the past eleven years, this trans-formative experience has helped create a more cohesive national Jewish Camp Community.

Camp Laurelwood has a long history of dedication and commitment to the local community and much beyond. Campers come from many different states and even abroad. The camp welcomes children of all backgrounds and looks forward to an awesome 76th summer in 2013!

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Jewish Family Service Parenting Jewish Children Support Groupsunday, May 12, 10-11:30 a.m.

A workshop in collaboration with Congregation Beth Shalom Rodfe Zedek, Temple Beth Tikvah and Jewish Family Service of New Haven through its Jewish Wellness and Healing Center with the support of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven on the Shoreline. This session will provide an opportunity to work together to create a positive, supportive sharing environment in which individuals will feel com-fortable in expressing their feelings and growing together as concerned parents on a journey to explore the issues of religious identity. $6 includes a light breakfast.

Bereavement: Finding Comfort in Our Time of LossA bereavement group offers an opportunity to reflect with others who can under-stand our struggles in a way that individuals who have not suffered the loss of a loved one cannot. Tuesdays: May 21, 28 and June 4 (7-8:30 p.m.) Temple Beth Sholom, 1809 Whitney Ave., Hamden

Caregiver Support GroupFor those who are coping with the needs of elderly and frail loved ones.Thursdays: May 23 and June 20 (7-8:30 p.m.) Tower One/Tower East, 18 Tower Lane, New HavenThursdays: May 30 and June 27 (7-8:30 p.m.) Temple Beth David, 3 Main St., CheshireThese groups are facilitated by Rabbi Hesch Sommer and are open to any indi-vidual in the Greater New Haven community.For more information, contact either Michelle O’Brien at the Towers (203) 722-1816 ext. 170; Rabbi Josh Whinston (203) 272-0037 or Rabbi Sommer (203) 389-5599 ext. 117.

A Yearlong Study of Pirke Avot: Ethical Reflections on How We Live Our LivesChapter six: May 22, 29 and June 5 (7-8:30 p.m.) “If we learn from others one chapter, one halacha, one verse, one saying, or even one letter, we are obligated to show honor to them.” Congregation Sinai, 1000 New Haven Ave., Milford Outreach to Senior Adult Living CommunitiesThe Jewish Wellness and Healing Center, in partnership with several local Senior Adult Living Communities, is providing monthly outreach programs.

Tower one/Tower east-New Haven: A monthly reflection on contemporary issues exploring the ethical concerns which touch each of our lives, called “Soul Stretching.” Small support groups focus on issues of Transition as Loss and a monthly Caregivers Support Group. Please contact Rabbi Hesch Sommer for more details at (203) 389-5599 ext.117.

Maplewood at orange: A monthly discussion group which explores contemporary issues through a Jewish lens.

Coachman square-Woodbridge: A monthly talk about contemporary concerns from a Jewish perspective, as well as another monthly discussion group focusing on the Healing Power of Psalms.

Whitney Center- Hamden: A series of talks about ethics using Rod Serling’s “Twilight Zone” episodes as a discussion starter.

For details about each of these offerings, please check the Jewish Family Service Bulletin Board at www.jfsnh.org

JFS Food Pantry Preparing for Move to New, Bigger Location

Camp Laurelwood Receives National Philanthropy Grant

The Jewish Family Service of New Haven Food Pantry has outgrown its current location and is looking to the future in a bigger and brighter new home. The Pantry will relocate to 1440 Whalley Ave., directly below the JFS main office, and the organization antic-ipates the move to be completed by June 2013. The new storefront location will provide easier access to clients and supporters and, at 1,560 square feet, the additional space for storage and distribution will allow for more effi-cient operations.

The new location also boasts a park-ing lot with handicapped spaces, a covered outside walkway and a cleaner and more spacious atmosphere.

Additionally, clients will now have easy access to the main JFS office and the variety of services and programs avail-able to them. JFS also hopes to add more services, including hands-on programs and activities for school-aged children, community service opportuni-ties for teens and increased volunteer participation.

Currently, the pantry serves more than 300 families monthly and provides emergency and supplemental food. It is also considered a local emergency response Pantry in the event of a natu-ral disaster.

Watch the JFS Facebook page for updates on the Pantry move and infor-mation on the grand re-opening.

Spiritual Music to Awaken, Uplift and Renew! Announcing the Release of Rick Calvert’s ARISE CD

Shalshelet Award-winning composer Rick Calvert has teamed up with Grammy Award-winning producer Ben Wisch for Rick’s second recorded collection of original, contemporary settings for Shabbat liturgy and other sacred texts. Available through www.cdbaby.com Visit Rick at www.rickcalvert.net

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Know-how is supporting thecommunities where we live and work.

People’s United Bank proudly supports

Shalom New Haven and the Jewish Federation

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203-387-5136

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A week before he passed away in March 2006, after a three-month battle

with cancer, 19-year-old Ryan Gordon of Wallingford made a last request to his parents – that his unused college funds be given to a number of organizations dear to his heart. His explicit hope was that his donations would inspire others to give as well.

His hopes will become a reality again on Thursday, June 13, when Congregation Beth Israel hosts the Ryan Gordon Memorial Kiddush Cup Golf Outing at the Tradition Golf Club at Wallingford.

In keeping with Ryan’s legacy, Beth Israel will donate 50 percent of the Kiddush Cup’s proceeds to Ryan’s Circle of Giving, an organization that gives 100 percent of its donations to the charities Ryan sought to benefit, including the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, the Yale Cancer Center’s Thoracic Oncology Research Department, the Ryan Gordon/Hartford Wolf Pack/CT Whale Fund at Trinity College, and the Ryan Gordon Endowment Fund at the Kingswood-Oxford School.

This year’s tournament is being dedi-cated to the families, first responders and teachers of Sandy Hook Elementary School, and a fifth beneficiary, the Sandy Hook Promise.

Kiddush Cup Continues Legacy of Young Congregant

The tournament begins at 9:45 a.m. with registration, breakfast, putting contest and an 11 a.m. shotgun/scramble start. The dinner event at 5 p.m., hosted by Fox 61’s Rich Coppola, will feature prizes and fes-tivities. Registration is $165, dinner only is $35.

Any level of participation is greatly appreciated, sponsorships are avail-able and all proceeds not directly benefiting the organizations men-tioned above will be used to con-tinue the mission of Beth Israel – to provide a place of worship, fellow-ship and education for the Greater Wallingford Jewish Community.

For more information or to register, con-tact Phyllis Gordon at (203) 269-5094 or pgordon@snet.net. To learn more about Ryan and the funds, go to www.ryan-scircleofgiving.com. To download a bro-chure, go to www.bethisraelwallingford.org and follow link to Kiddush Cup.

Woodmont thrived in the 1930s as the Town of Milford, population of 12,660, swelled to approximately 25,000 dur-ing the summer months. The largest and best-know rooming house was the four story Sauter House on Merwin Avenue, directly on the beach. The Sauter House rented rooms, had a common eating area with stoves and featured Saturday night dances. It was later sold to the Parsky family and renamed Parsky’s Hotel, which also catered primarily to Jews from New York City and Hartford.

Sophie Fleischner had a kosher butch-er shop to the left of Sauter’s/Parsky’s and Jacob Witkin ran a grocery store until 1945. Further south on Hillside and Burwell Avenues, Harry and Sarah Allinson had a grocery store that oper-ated through the winter months. At the junction of Hillside and Merwin, friends flocked to the popular local hangout, Sloppy Joe’s, owned by Frank J. Kellert. Glick’s (home of the catchy tagline: No one kicks who comes to Glick’s) was a nearby favorite deli. Villa Rosa served tasty ice cream, Ticotskys Bakery offered delicious sweets and treats, and Cohen’s bakery and outlet featured pas-tries from Legion Avenue bakeries.

The Jewish summer community thrived until World War II. Fischer writes, when the population began to age and younger Jews become less engaged. A wave of gang violence during the 1970s deterred summer folk from returning to the area. However, by the 1980s, the crime wave was down, and

more and more Jews returned to sum-mer at Woodmont.

For decades, the Hebrew Congregation of Woodmont led Shabbat services from Memorial Day through Labor Day. A rabbi would be hired for High Holiday services if it fell early enough on the calendar. In 2004, Joel and Leslie Levitz moved to Milford and the couple joined the congregation. Joel became president and pushed to hire a full-time rabbi and year-round services. He reached out to Chabad Lubavitch in Brooklyn.

Rabbi Schneur Wilhelm and his wife, Chanie, were dispatched to Milford in May 2007. Chanie grew up in Orange and is the daughter of Rabbi Sheya Hecht, regional director of the Chabad-Lubavitch movement in greater New Haven. Hecht had been thinking about bringing a Chabad presence to Milford. “It worked out that this synagogue called at just the right time,” Rabbi Wilhelm said.

The Wilhelms arrived to hold the syna-gogue’s first-ever Simchat Torah cel-ebration. They incorporated Shavuot services into the synagogue’s program-ming and held weekly services. The couple opened their home for services in the winter, and once a month their dining room became a makeshift syna-gogue for Saturday morning services. In fall 2010, the synagogue became a year-round operation with weekly Shabbat services, adult-education classes and holiday-related program-

ming held in a rented space during the winter. The synagogue has expanded its offerings to include twice-monthly Friday night services, a Jewish women’s circle and a men’s tefillin club. In October 2012, a few days after the Simchat Torah celebrations were held, a dev-astating fire damaged the synagogue building and destroyed its contents; however, the two Torahs were rescued.

So much was lost on that day, and the synagogue has pledged to rebuild and renovate the social hall into a fully-functioning, year-round Jewish center. The congregation has embarked on a $1.4 million campaign to rebuild and renovate the new center. They are see-ing support from the community and offering many dedication and memorial opportunities to help fund their dream for a permanent home with everything they need to accommodate the grow-ing Jewish community in Milford.

An architectural rendering of the proposed new building is currently on display at the JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge. To learn more about the campaign and get news and update on the construction, visit www.jewishmil-ford.com.

Gone are the days of Bagel Beach in its heyday; forever live the memories.

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Ryan Gordon

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Woodbridge Native’s Documentary Premieres in New Haven

Help Choose the Next Great Jewish Play

Institute continued from page 1

Religious Pluralism in Israel: The past decade has seen a tremendous growth in pluralistic religious movements within Israel, including egalitarian Orthodox, Conservative, Reform, Renewal, and Reconstructionist groups. However, the majority of religious policy is run by the ultra-Orthodox Israeli Rabbinate, which requires members of all movements and the unaffiliated to adhere to strict Orthodox interpretations of Jewish law for all marriages, divorces, and conver-sions. Recently, Women of the Wall activ-ists were arrested for leading egalitarian services and wearing tallitot at the Kotel, which is overseen by the ultra-Orthodox Western Wall Heritage Foundation. Join this discussion about the future of reli-giously pluralist movements in Israel and how it is important to society and Judaism as a whole. A panel of rabbis, leaders and activists will lead a spirited discussion on these issues. The Future of Peacebuilding in Israel: As we mark the 20th anniversary of the Oslo Accords with no peace in sight between Israelis and Palestinians, we will examine the efforts of the grassroots religious peace movement to bridge divides between Muslims, Christians, and Jews through groups including Jerusalem Peacemakers, Eretz Shalom (Land of Peace), the Sulha Peace Project, and the singular work of the late Rabbi Menachem Froman.

Anyone for Tennis? How About Golf?Check out New Summer Classes at the JCC

JCC Israeli Film FestivalThurday, May 2, 7:30 pm

Fill the Void Directed by Rama Burshtein

Explore the world of the Israeli Ultra-Orthodox community. When 18-year-old Shira’s sister dies in childbirth, she is expected to marry her late sister’s husband. Shira will have to choose between her heart’s wish and her family duty. Stay for a discussion with Sydney Perry, CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater New Haven. Loctaion: Madison Art Cinemas, 761 Boston Post Rd., Madison, $10

Thursday, May 9, 7:30 pm

Israel: A Home Movie Directed by Eliav Lilti

The film weaves together stunning home movie footage from the early years of Israel through the late 70’s to offer a criti-cal look at the history of the Jewish state, showing the birth of one nation and the exile of another from a complex Zionist perspective. Stay for a discussion with Prof. Shiri Goren, Yale

University. Sponsored by The Joseph Slifka Center at Yale University. Location: Whitney Humanities Center, 53 Wall St., New Haven, $10

On May 5, the JCC will host the Jewish Plays Project Second Annual Playwrighting Contest at New Haven’s Off-Broadway Theater. The Jewish Plays Project is an NYC-based orga-nization searching for the next great Jewish plays and playwrights. Each year, it hosts a contest and receives approximately 150 scripts. A panel picks the top three, and the com-pany goes on the road to JCCs and Jewish organizations throughout the Northeast to perform excerpts from the top three plays. At each perfor-mance, the audience chooses their favorite of the three plays. The cumu-lative winner gets a week-long perfor-

mance residency at the 14th Street Y in June, with the goal of a full New York production.

The Jewish Plays Project selected New Haven as one of their performance stops this year, and a local audience has the chance to help determine the next great Jewish Play.

The event is March 5 at 7 p.m. at the off-Broadway Theater, 41 Broadway (behind Toad’s Place). Tickets are $25/$12 students & seniors and can be purchased at jccnh.org.

For more information about the Jewish Plays Project, check out www.jewishplaysproject.org

If you have ever been touched by a song, film, book, or performance then you inherently understand the transfor-mative power of the arts.

In his new documentary film, Making Light in Terezin, premiering at Westville’s historic Lyric Hall on Saturday, June 1, Woodbridge-native Richard Krevolin reveals the true story of how, in WWII’s darkest days, prisoners in the Terezin ghetto, outside of Prague, found a mech-anism for survival through theater, song, dance, and laughter.

Making Light in Terezin follows a mod-ern day Minnesota theater group as they travel to Terezin to perform a cab-aret piece originally created there dur-ing WWII. Weaving together interviews with performers, Holocaust survivors and scholars discussing Jewish humor, and history, it tells a story of survival and the triumph of a culture, artistic expression, and the human spirit. The film and its companion book, Making Light in Terezin: The Show Helps Us Go On, co-written with Bethany-native Nancy Cohen, celebrate the indomita-

ble creative spirit that was alive – and helped save lives – in 1943.

This New England premiere, presented by the National Jewish Center for Leadership and Learning and Power Story Entertainment, will include three screenings followed by a discussion and book signing with Krevolin.

June 1, $12 for the Noon and 3 p.m. screening, and $18 for the 7 p.m. screening with a wine and cheese reception. More: makinglightinterezin-ticketsales.yolasite.com.

This summer the JCC is pleased to be offering new classes. Members will have access to individual and group tennis and golf lessons through a new partnership with the Country Club of Woodbridge.

JCC members also receive a 20 percent discount on all greens fees for the season and on daily passes to the pool and ten-nis at the Country Club of Woodbridge.

Whether the golf goal is to learn the basics of the game or to shave those valuable strokes off of your handicap, these classes can help. The energetic team of golf professionals will cover the basics of the full swing, wedge game,

short game, and on course techniques.

And the tennis pro will teach the basics of the game including forehand, back-hand, serving, footwork, and net game – at both beginner and intermediate levels. Clinics are taught in a wooded outdoor setting in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. The special partnership also offers special prices for golf and tennis sum-mer clinics for kids and a kids’ tennis team.Classes start in early June and spots are limited. For dates, times and prices, please visit jccnh.org.

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Advertise in SNHInterested in advertising in Shalom New Haven?Visit jewishnewhaven.org or email advertising@jewishnewhaven.org

JCC Women’s Spa Gets a FaceliftThe JCC Women’s Spa is undergoing a facelift thanks to the generous donation of JCC Spa member Suzanne Weinstein in memory of her husband, Richard Weinstein.

The new environment, thoughtfully designed to provide each spa member the chance to enjoy and relax in beautifully updated and comfortable surroundings, will feature an upgraded storage unit for towels and bathrobes, the addition of a flat screen television, a new paint design, new cabinets and countertops, and a re-vamped sitting area.

Renovations have been spearheaded by Spa Renovation Committee Chair Jan Miller. Special thanks to spa member and design consultant Barbara Block, A.S. I.D., for guiding the committee through the process, and to generous donations from Maxine Wallace, David Trachten of Viking Cabinets and James Shanbrom.

All JCC Members and friends are encouraged to visit the newly-designed spa. Please see the membership services office on the lower level to arrange for a tour.

Mr. David and Mrs. Sharon Bender of Woodbridge, Conn., and Mr. James and Dr. Miri Daly of Enfield, Conn., are delight-ed to announce the engagement of their children, Nina Caledonia London Bender and Kevin James Daly of New Haven. Nina is a 2006 graduate of Amity High School and Kevin is a 2000 graduate of Enrico Fermi High School. The couple both attended Quinnipiac University. Nina stud-ied psychology and elementary education (BA’10, MA’11). Kevin majored in criminal justice (BA’04). Kevin also received an MFA in playwriting from Indiana University (’08).Both were staff at JCC Day Camps. The couple is planning an August 2013 wedding on the beach in Westbrook, where Nina’s family resides in the summer.

Former Camp Staff Announce Engagement

Project Israel Aims to Bring Music to Israeli Youth Villages George Hauer and Ethel Anne Chorney, president of Shoreline Hadassah, are co-owners of Madison Music Center in Madison. Through their business, they have contact with musical instrument companies and foundations that can provide funding for instruments and music accessories at or below cost. In November 2010, the pair founded Project Israel – a charitable start-up

organization striving to raise funds for the purchase of musical instruments that support music therapy and educa-tion to Israeli youth villages. It is an out-growth of the nonprofit Operation Music Aid (OMA), an organization focused on raising funds to send musical instru-ments to wounded men and women in the armed services, founded in 2006 by Hauer and Clark Knicely.

The inspiration for Project Israel came about after Chorney returned from a recent trip to Israel for the Hadassah Centennial and visited hospitals, schools and a Hadassah Youth Aliyah program called Neurim Village. These programs serving adolescents in need of emotional support and direction are often underfunded and rely on grants and donations to provide the basics of education, housing and treatment. Little is available for luxuries and music. Cultural arts enrichment pro-grams are rare. In addition to a need for Jewish education services, these at-risk youth need extra support and attention to become productive mem-bers of Israel’s society.

Project Israel is committed to enriching the lives of children in Israel and has raised more than $2,000 for the first shipment of instruments to be sent this spring, with financial assistance from El Al Airlines. Neurim Village, selected as the initial recipient, serves approxi-mately 400 high school students. The Project hopes to eventually have suf-ficient funding to provide music educa-tors, therapists and interns to assist students in their music achievement. Funds will be raised through charitable donations, bequests and grants. If you are interested in supporting this effort, contact Ethel Anne Chorney, (203) 421-4431 or eachorney@yahoo.com.

Israeli youth villages benefit from funds raised for musical instruments.

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Beth Israel SynagogueSixth Annual Second Night Passover SederOn March 26, Beth Israel Synagogue in Wallingford held its sixth annual second night Seder for the area’s Jewish community. The Seder is a ritual meal that com-memorates our ancestral escape from slavery in Egypt.

The free event attracted over 85 participants from the region. They served a tradi-tional Passover meal and held a stimulating and interactive service.

Beth Israel and B’nai Abraham Joint Sunday SchoolThe Sunday School has students and teachers from both Beth Israel and B’nai Abraham. Sessions primarily take place at B’nai Abraham and students are grouped by age, pre-school through Bnai Mitzvah, and infuse a sense of belong-ing, fun and Jewish culture, an appreciation of Israel, and to familiarize the stu-dents with Hebrew, holidays, prayer, and to prepare them for their eventual bar and bat mitzvahs.

The school meets Sunday mornings 9:30 am -12:30 pm for all students, and Tuesday evening for children in third grade and up. Monthly family services on a Friday and Saturday are also part of the curriculum. The teachers have a wealth of experience and knowledge and love sharing with and inspiring the students. Contact Fred Zierler at B’nai Abraham, fzierler@cox.net, (203)631-0567 or Alida Cella at Beth Israel, alidacella@hotmail.com or (203)949-8656.

Beth Israel Synagogue, 22 North Orchard St., Wallingford, CT.

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Synagogues

Rabbinic News for Congregation B’nai JacobCongregation B’nai Jacob in Woodbridge announces the appointment of Rabbi Rona Shapiro as their next spiritual leader. Rabbi Shapiro will be CBJ’s first woman rabbi. She comes to the synagogue and community with over twenty years of experience in the rabbinate – as a pulpit rabbi, a leader of non-profit organizations including the Hillel chapter at the University of California at Berkeley, and as the founding editor of RitualWell.org. A Long Island native, Rabbi Shapiro was ordained at The Jewish Theological Seminary in New York. She earned a bachelor’s degree from Harvard University. Her last pulpit posi-tion was at Congregation B’nai Jeshurun in Cleveland, Ohio. Rabbi Shapiro and her husband, David Franklin, and their two daughters Noa (15) and Hallel (12) will move to Connecticut this summer.

Temple EmanuelErev Cinco de Mayo Fiesta saturday, May 4, 7:30 p.m.

Enjoy gourmet Mexican appetizers, entrees, desserts, delicious margaritas, and fresh fruit sangria, a Salsa lesson, and sing along with the Mariachi Emperadores de Puebla to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. Featuring a silent auction. Tickets are available online or at the office.

Scholar-in-Residence Weekend with Rabbi Professor Marc Saperstein of Leo Baeck College Friday, May 10 - saturday, May 11

Rabbi Saperstein will speak about “Jews Living in Muslim Lands” after Kabbalat Shabbat service on May 10 and on May 11 at 10:30 a.m. Rabbi Saperstein has served as the principal of the Leo Baeck College since 2006 and is now Professor of Jewish History and Homiletics. Author of five books and more than 50 articles on various aspects of Jewish history, literature and thought, he is widely recognized as perhaps the pre-eminent authority on the history of Jewish preaching.

Kabbalat Shabbat Service and Dinner in Recognition of Late Gloria Levine Friday, May 31

The Board of Directors hosts a Shabbat dinner to celebrate the life of its first president, Gloria Levine prior to the service. Congregants will have an opportu-nity to meet and greet members of the Levine family. During the Shabbat ser-vice, the Temple Emanuel band will perform and past president Lewis Schaffer will offer remarks.

“Jewish Ethics in Rod Serling’s The Twilight Zone” Wednesdays, June 12, 19, 26

A lecture/discussion series with Rabbi Hesch Sommer, director of the Jewish Wellness and Healing Center and Coordinator of Pastoral Care and Pastoral Counseling Services for Jewish Family Service of New Haven, Inc.

Shabbat Under the Stars Friday, July 26, 7 p.m.

Rabbi Michael Farbman leads Kabbalat Shabbat services on the grounds of Temple Emanuel, accompanied by members of the TE band. All are welcome to attend. The service will be followed by our traditional tasty TE oneg.

For information, (203) 397-3000 or www.templeemanuel-gnh.org.

Temple Emanuel of Greater New Haven, 150 Derby Ave., Orange, CT

Congregation Beth El–Keser Israel ( BEKI )Shabbat Shalom Torah Studysaturday, May 4 and May 18, 10:45 a.m.

Explore the scripture readings and liturgy of the day in a participatory setting. This is an ideal setting for all shul-goers alike to gain increased understanding and appreciation of the Torah reading, Haftara and liturgy. Everyone is welcome to par-ticipate regardless of religious status or background. Open to the entire community and free of charge. For more information, call (203) 389-2108 or www.beki.org.

Rashi Study Group: ShoftimMonday, May 6, 13, 20, 7:45 a.m.-8:30 p.m. and May 27, 9:45–10:30 a.m.

The reading is Rashi’s commentary on the Book of Shoftim (Judges). Characters in the narrative include the Prophet Devora, General Baraq, Warlord Yiftah, Mrs. Manoah, and Samson and Delilah. The group will discuss the meaning of the text in its historical, literary, and linguistic context. Knowledge of Hebrew is not necessary.Open to the entire community and free of charge. For more information, call (203) 389-2108 or www.beki.org.

Congregation Beth El-Keser Israel (BEKI), 85 Harrison Street, New Haven, CT.

Special Kiddush for Rabbi Levensonsaturday, June 29

Members of Congregation B’nai Jacob, along with the rest of the community, will have the chance to thank Rabbi Joel Levenson for his service, extend their appreciation for his hard work and mark his dedication to CBJ and Greater New Haven. He has been the spiritual leader of Congregation B’nai Jacob since 2008. During his tenure, he worked on social action and educational projects, led trips to Israel and worked extensively with young families and Woodbridge teenagers. Stay after Morning Shabbat services for a special Kiddush for Rabbi Levenson, Leora and their family. This event is open all. For information, call B’nai Jacob at (203)389-2111, or www.bnaijacob.org Cong. B’nai Jacob, 75 Rimmon Rd., Woodbridge. For more information, call 203 389-2111 or log onto bnaijacob.org.

Congregation B’nai Jacob

Westville ChabadCurious Tales of the Talmud: Finding Personal Meaning in the Legends of our SagesTuesdays May 7, 14, 21, 28, 7:30-9 pm

Everyone loves a good story. Knowing this, the sages of the Talmud used stories to encode messages about life that are far too deep and profound to communicate directly. This course decodes some of these extraordinary Talmudic mysteries.

Davis Street Arts and Academic School, 35 Davis St., New Haven, CT. For informa-tion, (203) 606-9790 or MyJLI.com.

Westville SynagogueWestville’s annual Spring Gala will be held on Sunday, May 5 at 5 p.m. This year’s honorees are Drs. Sharon and Joshua Hasbani. Community Service Awards will be presented to Dr. Arthur and Betty Levy, and Barry Vine. Dr. Tanya Fischer will receive Westville’s Young Leadership Award. Contact Barbara Zalesch at Barbzal918@aol.com.

The modern-Orthodox Westville Synagogue, led by Rabbi Fred Hyman, is located at 74 West Prospect Street in New Haven. For information, call (203)389-9513 or www.westvilleshul.org/

Woodbridge MinyanAn Orthodox minyan where all generations share weekly prayer in a low-key, family and youth-oriented atmosphere that is welcoming and spiritually-satisfying in its simplicity. By being an integral part of a “davening team,” our minyan youth develop important leadership skills. Meet at the Woodbridge Senior Center. For information, (203)387-1925 or therosedor@aol.com.

Congregation Or ShalomHot Topics with Rabbi Wainhaus May 1 and May 8, 7-8 pm

Rabbi Wainhaus will tackle current and hot topics, including “What does the new Pope mean to Israel and the Jewish people.” Admission is free. No reser-vations required.

Shavuot ServicesMay 14-16

Shavuot Study to celebrate the Birth of the Torah. Tuesday May 14, the first night of Shavuot, Rabbi Wainhaus leads the study session.

Martinis & Mah JongThursday, May 23, 7-9 pm

Or Shalom’s Sisterhood hosts this annual event. Bring your own group, or join one. New to Mah Jong? Someone will teach you. $5 due with reservation. Contact Robin Ben-Eli, (203)799-0014 or ben-eli@sbcglobal.net.

Annual Golf & Tennis TournamentWednesday, June 5

A fun-filled afternoon at Traditions at Oak Lane. In the evening, all are welcome for a wonderful dinner, raffles and fun.

Annual Tag SaleJuly 25, 26, 28

Thursday is a special admission preview night. Friday and Sunday the hours are 10 am-3 pm.

“Meet us at the Gazebo” Shabbat ServiceFriday, Aug. 30, 7 pm

An outdoor Friday night Shabbat Service under the Gazebo at High Plains Community Center, Orange Center Road, Orange. The Rabbi will bring his guitar and lead a joyful sing-along service. Meet members of Or Shalom and Rabbi Wainhaus in a casual scenic setting. Some chairs are provided but we encour-age you to bring your own lawn chair.

9th & 10th Graders Give Back to the CommunityThis winter, the town of Orange Community Services Department and Congregation Or Shalom’s ninth and tenth graders launched two noteworthy programs for senior citizens: “Safety Through Numbers” and “Teen Tech Talk.”

Safety Through Numbers addresses the need for clear numbers on both sides of a mailbox that can be easily read by emergency responders in the event of a 911 call. Any senior citizen in our town may call Carol Nardini at (203)891-4786 for this service. A teenager and his/her parent will arrange a time to arrive at the mailbox with the correct numbers.

Teen Tech Talk aims to enable senior citizens to get the most out of their elec-tronic devices. Seniors are invited to bring their laptops, ipads, iphones, and other devices to the Senior Lounge once a month and meet with teenagers “in the know” about such devices. For details, call Dennis Marsh (203)891-4789.

Preschoolers at Temple Beth Sholom hang out with “zoo” animals.

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Congregation Mishkan IsraelAnnual Deli Night features Comedian Cory Kahaney saturday, May 11, 6 pm

Congregation Mishkan Israel’s Brotherhood of Men & Women presents its annual Deli Night. The evening includes an all-you-can-eat buffet of homemade deli food, wonderful music and comedic entertainment by Cory Kahany. Kahaney, a popular New York City comedian, was a finalist and runner-up on Last Comic Standing.

The community is invited to attend. $35 per person before May 6. $40 after May 6. For information, call (203) 288-3877.

Congregation Mishkan Israel, 785 Ridge Rd., Hamden, CT.

Hebrew Congregation of Woodmont/ChabadNew Building CampaignOur congregation suffered a tremendous loss in October 2012 when a devastat-ing fire destroyed our synagogue building, built in 1926. We have pledged to restore our historic structure to preserve the history and memories. We have architectural plans ready for restoration of our synagogue, a new lobby addition, and renovation of our social hall into a fully-functional, year-round Jewish center. A building campaign launch event was held in February to share plans for the new building. We are grateful to all those in the Greater New Haven area who reached out to help after the fire. For more info on this project, visit JewishMilford.com.

163 Hillside Ave., Milford.

Congregation Kol AmiBikes Not Bombs Tuesday, May 19, 1-4 pm

Congregation Kol Ami and the First Congregational Church of Cheshire unite to collect used bicycles for the charity Bikes Not Bombs to be distributed to poor people in developing countries around the world to provide cheap, sustainable, and much needed transportation. First Congregational Church of Cheshire will receive the bicycles on the church green located in the center of Cheshire.

All sizes and types of bikes may be donated, whether working or broken, for adult or children. Also welcome: bicycle tools; accessories such as helmets, lights, and locks; cycling clothing; and bicycle parts. For information, call (203)272-5323.

Temple Beth Sholom Hosted Preschool Zoo DayThe preschoolers at Temple Beth Sholom completed a six-week unit on animals with their very own Zoo Day. This unit has spanned the curriculum, including lit-eracy and math skills, science, speaking and listening skills, fine and gross motor skills. Parents/guardians accompanied the children to the zoo, set up in stations with an educational activity.

The children have been learning ways to be kind to animals. As part of the unit, the children are collecting donations for Animal Haven, a shelter for dogs and cats in North Haven. The children are very excited to bring much needed supplies to the animal shelter.

Temple Beth Sholom, 1809 Whitney Ave., Hamden, CT.

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Synagogues

JCC Israeli Film FestivalThursday, May 2 | 7:30 to 9 PM The JCC Israeli Film Festival presents Fill the Void. Location: Madison Art Cinemas, Boston Post Rd, MadisonContact: DeDe Jacobs-Komisar, (203)387-2522, dedek@jccnh.org

shabbat Friends Friday, May 3 | 11 to 11:45 AM A hands on, weekly program for kids 6 and younger and their parent/caregiver featuring different educators from around the community Location: JCC Family Room, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge

Phyllis silidker Memorial shabbaton Musician in Residence Weekend Friday, May 3 | 7 to 9 PM Shabbat services on Friday night, Joshua Nelson “The Prince of Kosher Gospel” and the Kosher Gospel Singers will join Rabbi Offner. Location: Temple Beth Tikvah, 196 Durham Rd., Madison

Volunteer Recognition Program Sunday, May 5 | 1 to 2:30 PM Location: Tower One/Tower East, 18 Tower Lane, New Haven Contact: Linda Applebaum, (203)772-1816, linda@towerone.org

Westville synagogue Annual gala Sunday, May 5 | 5 to 9 PM Annual fund-raising gala.Location: Westville Synagogue,74 W. Prospect St., New Haven Contact: Barbara Zalesch,(203)589-1100, BarbZal918@aol.com

Jewish Plays Project Playwriting Contest Sunday, May 5 | 7 PM Audiences vote for next great Jewish play. Location: Off-Broadway Theatre, 41 Broadway, New Haven Contact: DeDe Jacobs-Komisar, (203)387-2522, dedek@jccnh.org

Portrayal of the “other” in Israeli and Palestinian school Books Tuesday, May 7 | 7:30 to 9 PM Dr. Bruce Wexler on the Israeli and Palestinian school books study. Location: JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge Contact: Lauri Lowell, (203)387-2424, jcrc@jewishnewhaven.org

Israeli Dance Intermediate/Advanced Tuesday, May 7 - Tuesday, May 14, 7:45 to 10:45 PM Learn & practice dances, add to your dance repertoire! Location: Joseph Slifka Center for Jewish Learning at Yale University, 80 Wall St., New Haven Contact: Leng Asayag Tan, (203)912-4086, leng@ctisraelidance.com

JCC Israeli Film FestivalThursday, May 9 | 7 to 9:30 PM Israel: A Home Movie weaves together stunning home movie footage from the early years of Israel up until the late 70’s, to offer a critical look at the history of the Jewish state. Location: Whitney Humanities Center, 53 Wall St., New Haven Contact: DeDe Jacobs-Komisar, (203)387-2522, dedek@jccnh.org

shabbat Friends Friday, May 10 | 11 to 11:45 AM Location: JCC Family Room, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge

Brotherhood of Men & Women Deli & Comedy Night Saturday, May 11 | 6 to 8:30 PM Includes an all-you-can-eat deli buffet, wonderful music, and comedic enter-tainment. Featured comedian is Cory Kahaney. The community is invited to attend. $35 by May 6; $40 after May 6. Location: Congregation Mishkan Israel, 785 Ridge Rd., Hamden

Annual Mother’s Day BrunchSunday, May 12 | 11 AMLocation: Tower One/Tower East, 18 Tower Lane, New Haven Contact: Linda Applebaum, (203)772-1816, linda@towerone.org

Family Pizza and Ice Cream social Monday, May 13 | 5:30 to 6:30 PM Celebrate Shavuot with pizza and ice cream. Location: JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge. Contact: Saskia Swenson Moss, (203)387-2522, saskiasm@jccnh.org

shabbat Friends Friday, May 17 | 11 to 11:45 AM Location: JCC Family Room, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge.

My Home Is gone - Remnants of Jewish PolandSunday, May 19 | 1:30 PM The Jewish Genealogical Society of Connecticut presents: My Home Is Gone - Remnants of Jewish Poland. Barbara Krasner’s trip to Warsaw and her grand-parents’ shtetlikh in 2008 connected her to her Polish roots. Location: Godfrey Memorial Library, 134 Newfield St., Middletown

The Nu Haven Kapelye at the JCC Sunday, May 19 | 4 PM Southern New England’s largest group of Klezmer musicians.Location: JCC Auditorium,360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge Contact: DeDe Jacobs-Komisar,dedek@jccnh.org

ADL 2013 greater New Haven Torch of Liberty Centennial Tuesday, May 21 | 5:30 to 10 PM Contact: Terry Sidera, (203)288-6500, tsidera@adl.org

JCL Volunteer Appreciation Reception Wednesday, May 22 | 9 AM to 12 PM Honoring volunteer reading partners. Location: JCC Auditorium, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge

Israel at 65 Community Mission Parlor MeetingWednesday, May 22 | 7:30 to 9:30 PM Location: A private home in Guilford. RSVP for address to Stacey Trachten, (203)387-2424, Strachten@jewishne-whaven.org

Martinis and Mah Jong Thursday, May 23 | 7 to 9 PM A fun evening to play with friends or come and learn. Location: Congregation Or Shalom, 205 Old Grassy Hill Rd., Orange

shabbat Friends Friday, May 24 | 11 to 11:45 AM Location: JCC Family Room, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge

Israeli Dance Party Tuesday, May 28 | 7 to 10:30 PM Israeli dance is no longer just the Hora; there are many new, modern dances to new, popular Israeli songs! Enjoy kosher refreshments & live drumming! Location: Temple Beth Sholom, 1809 Whitney Ave., HamdenContact: Leng Asayag Tan, (203)912-4086, leng@ctisraelidance.com

senior Choice at Home® Wednesday, May 29 |1 PM to 2:30 PM Representatives from The Jewish Home in Fairfield’s Senior Choice at Home® program talk about long-term care plan-ning options. The only one of its kind in Southern Connecticut.Location: JCC Library, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge. Contact: Jeffrey Gell, (203) 365-6481, jgell@jhe.org

shabbat Friends Friday, May 31 | 11 to 11:45 AM Location: JCC Family Room, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge

juneJewish Historical society Annual Meeting Sunday, June 2 | 10 AM to 1 PM Honoring Donn Trenner, native New Havener and world-renowned jazz pianist. Catered kosher brunch will be served. $36. Location: JCC Vine Auditorium, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge Contact jhsgnhevents@gmail.com

JCC Kids Touch-a-Truck Sunday, June 2 | 12 to 4 PM Location: JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge. Contact: Tanya Weinberg, tanyaw@jccnh.org

Tower one/Tower east spring Concert Sunday, June 2 |1 PMfeaturing the Tower’s Chorus & the Towers Gospel Choir.Location: Tower One/Tower East, 18 Tower Lane, New Haven Contact: Linda Applebaum, (203)772-1816, linda@towerone.org

HHNe Cultural Arts Night Monday, June 3 | 6 to 9:30 PM Location: Mandell JCC, 335 Bloomfield Ave, West Hartford Contact: Stacey Trencher, s.trencher@hhne.org

Lunch & Learn series: Mind, Body & spiritTuesday, June 4 | 11:30 AMLocation: Tower One/Tower East, 18 Tower Lane, New Haven Contact: Linda Applebaum, (203)772-1816, linda@towerone.org

Annual or shalom golf & Tennis Tournament Wednesday, June 5 | 11:30 AM to 8:30 PM Location: Traditions at Oak Lane, Racebrook Rd, Woodbridge Contact: Irwin Barstein, (203)488-1030, info@orshalomct.org

2012 genealogical Journeys of Doris Nabel and Monica TalmorSunday, June 9 | 1:30 PM The Jewish Genealogical Society of Connecticut presents the stories of the 2012 genealogical journeys of president Doris Nabel and secretary Monica Talmor to Germany and Romania, respectively. Location: Godfrey Memorial Library,134 Newfield St., Middletown

Annual Meeting Federation, Foundation & JCC Tuesday, June 11 | 6:30 to 9:30 PM Location: JCC Vine Auditorium, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge

3rd Annual CT-Israel Technology summit Wednesday, June 12 | 11 AM to 5 PM A venue to expand business opportunities between Israel and Connecticut. Location: Oakdale Theater,95 South Turnpike Rd., Wallingford

14th Annual Ryan C. gordon Memorial Kiddish Cup Thursday, June 13 | 9:45 AM to 7 PM Hosted by Beth Israel Synagogue of Wallingford. Location: Tradition Golf Club, 37 Harrison Rd., Wallingford

Hebrew High school of New england graduation Sunday, June 16 | 2 PM Location: Hebrew High School of New England, 300 Bloomfield Ave., West Hartford

Annual Father’s Day BrunchSunday, June 16 | 11 AMLocation: Tower One/Tower East, 18 Tower Lane, New Haven Contact: Linda Applebaum, (203)772-1816, linda@towerone.org

Jewish Business League Wednesday, June 19 | 7:30 to 9:15 AM Ron Shaw, former CEO of Pilot Pen – Using humor as an asset in business. Location: Tower One, 18 Tower Lane, New Haven

ezra Academy graduation Wednesday, June 19 | 7 PM

summer Reads Wednesday, June 19 | 6:30 to 9 PM Women’s Network summer read review with facilitator Roxanne Coady. Contact: Enid Groves, (203)387-2424, egroves@jewishnewhaven.org

Retirement Dinner Honoring Tzvi Rapaport Sunday, June 23 | 6 PM Location: Ezra Academy, 75 Rimmon Rd., Woodbridge

Lunch & Learn series: Mind, Body & spiritTuesday, June 25 | 11:30 AMLocation: Tower One/Tower East, 18 Tower Lane, New Haven Contact: Linda Applebaum, (203)772-1816, linda@towerone.org

Comedy Night at B’nai Jacob Saturday, June 29 | 9 to 11:59 PM Enjoy an evening of comedy featuring our funniest B’nai Jacob congregants. Light nosh, open bar and great desserts. Location: Congregation B’nai Jacob, 75 Rimmon Rd., Woodbridge Contact: B’nai Jacob, (203) 389-2111

julyLunch & Learn series: Mind, Body & spiritTuesday, July 7 | 11:30 AMLocation: Tower One/Tower East, 18 Tower Lane, New Haven Contact: Linda Applebaum, (203)772-1816, linda@towerone.org

Jewish Business League Wednesday, July 17 | 7:30 to 9:15 AM David Beckerman, former CEO of Starter. Building a strong brand in the market-place. Location: Tower One, 18 Tower Lane, New Haven

Tower one/Tower east Annual Family/Resident PicnicSunday, July 21 | 12 PMLocation: Tower One/Tower East,18 Tower Lane, New Haven Contact: Linda Applebaum,(203)772-1816, linda@towerone.org

Jewish Foundation Investment Committee Meeting Monday, July 22 | 5:30 to 7 PM Location: JCC, 360 Amity Rd., Woodbridge

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BCA Celebrates Math on Pi Day

Pi may mean 3.14 or just a Greek letter to most people, but to the students at Beth Chana Academy High School for Girls, it took on a whole new meaning on Pi Day, March 14, 2013.

Pi Day is celebrated around the world on 3/14. Pi is the mathematical sym-bol used to represent a constant — the ratio of the circumference of a circle to its diameter. Pi has been calculated to more than one trillion digits beyond its decimal point and it will continue infi-nitely without repetition or pattern.

The school’s Pi Day celebration came to life as math instructor Lilach Shaham took the girls through the mystery of pi. The class began with the origin and through discussion, a movie and a hands-on activity, the girls learned how pi’s meaning is significant not only in the math world but throughout society as well.

To reinforce the endless numbers of pi, the girls went on to construct a pi chain beginning with 3.14 and then added additional numbers. The girls searched pi’s list of seemingly random digits and found many relevant dates in the digits. For the last activity of the day, a large pizza was delivered and students cal-culated the diameter to many numbers before consuming the delicious treat.

Beth Chana Academy, located in Orange, CT, is committed to excellence in educa-tion and the development of self-assured young women who exemplify middot tovot, strength of character, and good citizenship. Through a rigorous academic program of both Judaic and secular studies, as well as goal-oriented extra-curricular programs, BCA instills within its students the confi-dence to discover and cultivate their own unique talents. For more information, call principal Bluma Hecht at (203)795-5261.

BCA students learn about the mysteries of Pi on March 14, Pi Day.