CBY Fall 2014 Bulletin

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continues on page 3 2 Banksville Road • Box 7 • Armonk, NY 10504 • Fall 2014 Quarterly Bulletin Cover-5 Community It's a Small World Aſter All Honors and Acknowledgements High Holy Days 5775 CBY Brotherhood Forming: Members Needed CBY Cultural Connections Nicaragua Community Service Trip Informational Meeting 10-11 Commitment to Others High Holy Day Food Drive School Supplies Drive 11 Investment High Holy Day Campaign It's a Small World After All You don’t have to tell me that it was a little bit crazy to go to Disney World’s Magic Kingdom—in August—in 101°F heat— with a 4-year-old. We knew it already, but couldn’t resist the innocent requests to go see Mickey Mouse. It was, aſter all, the week of his birthday. e flashbacks were numerous, in particular, waiting on line for the 35-second-long Dumbo ride. It was much better this time, with an air-conditioned indoor waiting/play area to spend the 30 minutes. e last time, my father nearly exploded aſter a more-than-2-hour wait with me, insistent to ride Dumbo. It was a LONG time ago. Fortunately, several of these original rides live on for parents to reminisce as they ride again, this time with children of their own. One of these “oldies-but-goodies” is the “It’s a Small World” ride. My husband had never been on it, and I gleefully told him that it was a very simple, gentle ride, but that the looping and repeating song, “It’s a Small World Aſter All,” would stay with him all week. It didn’t really matter what kind of ride it was, so long as it was out of the sun and air-conditioned. e ride did not disappoint. I noticed small details I never would have noticed as a child, such as how the scenes of different cultures were grouped by continent. And then, just around the corner towards the end of the ride, I saw a chuppah (Jewish wedding canopy). Don’t ask why a wedding scene would be depicted with children…I was just blown away that there was any Jewish scene at all! e little boy groom even wore tzitzis (the 4-cornered fringed garment worm by some observant Jews). I hurriedly snapped a photo to remember it. e scene stuck with me long aſter we exited back into the sun. Why WAS there a Jewish scene at all? To the best of my recollection, I had not seen any other religious scene represented. Yes, Judaism has a culture all its own, but so does Islam and Christianity…and Buddhism, and Taoism, and Hinduism. Why did Judaism get its own little display? Furthermore, how did Disney determine in which country to place it? I’m guessing that either a visitor requested a Jewish scene, or a worker placed it in there to be inclusive. I’m fairly certain that it wasn’t there originally. I didn’t mind, and in fact I was glad to have seen it, but I wish there had been other religious ceremonies represented as well. I don’t think that Judaism alone merits inclusion. I hope that most would agree with me. As a modern, liberal Jew, I believe that we all worship the same God, and that the different prayers and different languages and liturgy all get where they need to go, and are all understood by a higher power. Aſter all, it’s a small world. I mean, it’s a small world aſter all. It’s a small world, indeed, but we are certainly good at dividing it and fighting over it. No wonder the Israeli national anthem, HaTikvah, (“the hope”) speaks of being free in our land. Written in 1886, 62 years before the creation of the State of Israel, the poet Naphtali Herz Imber neatly summed up the quest for peace and freedom: 6-7 Leadership Meet the New Members of our Board of Ttrustees From the Rabbi's Study Early Shabbat Service to Welcome Rabbi Katz 12 Tradition High Holy Day Recipes 8-9 Learning Building A Kehilah KedoshaA Sacred Community Cantor Hayley Kobilinsky

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Transcript of CBY Fall 2014 Bulletin

Page 1: CBY Fall 2014 Bulletin

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2 Banksville Road • Box 7 • Armonk, NY 10504 • Fall 2014 Quarterly Bulletin

( ) * + ( , ( , , - .Cover-5 CommunityIt's a Small World A! er AllHonors and AcknowledgementsHigh Holy Days 5775CBY Brotherhood Forming: Members NeededCBY Cultural ConnectionsNicaragua Community Service Trip Informational Meeting

10-11 Commitment to OthersHigh Holy Day Food Drive

School Supplies Drive

11 InvestmentHigh Holy Day Campaign

/ 0 1 1 - ) ( * 2It's a Small World After All

You don’t have to tell me that it was a little bit crazy to go to Disney World’s Magic Kingdom—in August—in 101°F heat—with a 4-year-old. We knew it already, but couldn’t resist the innocent requests to go see Mickey Mouse. It was, a! er all, the week of his birthday. # e $ ashbacks were numerous, in particular, waiting on line for the 35-second-long Dumbo ride. It was much better this time, with an air-conditioned indoor waiting/play area to spend the 30 minutes. # e last time, my father nearly exploded a! er a more-than-2-hour wait with me, insistent to ride Dumbo. It was a LONG time ago.

Fortunately, several of these original rides live on for parents to reminisce as they ride again, this time with children of their own. One of these “oldies-but-goodies” is the “It’s a Small World” ride. My husband had never been on it, and I gleefully told him that it was a very simple, gentle ride, but that the looping and repeating song, “It’s a Small World A! er All,” would stay with him all week. It didn’t really matter what kind of ride it was, so long as it was out of the sun and air-conditioned. # e ride did not disappoint. I noticed small details I never would have noticed as a child, such as how the scenes of di% erent cultures were grouped by continent. And then, just around the corner towards the end of the ride, I saw a chuppah (Jewish wedding canopy). Don’t ask why a wedding scene would be depicted with children…I was just blown away that there was any Jewish scene at all! # e little boy groom even wore tzitzis (the 4-cornered fringed garment worm by some observant Jews). I hurriedly snapped a photo to remember it. # e scene stuck with me long a! er we exited back into the sun. Why WAS there a Jewish scene at all? To the best of my recollection, I had not seen any other religious scene represented. Yes, Judaism has a culture all its own, but so does Islam and Christianity…and Buddhism, and Taoism, and Hinduism. Why did Judaism get its own little display? Furthermore, how did Disney determine in which country to place it?

I’m guessing that either a visitor requested a Jewish scene, or a worker placed it in there to be inclusive. I’m fairly certain that it wasn’t there originally. I didn’t mind, and in fact I was glad to have seen it, but I wish there had been other religious ceremonies represented as well. I don’t think that Judaism alone merits inclusion. I hope that most would agree with me. As a modern, liberal Jew, I believe that we all worship the same God, and that the di% erent prayers and di% erent languages and liturgy all get where they need to go, and are all understood by a higher power. A! er all, it’s a small world. I mean, it’s a small world a! er all.

It’s a small world, indeed, but we are certainly good at dividing it and * ghting over it. No wonder the Israeli national anthem, HaTikvah, (“the hope”) speaks of being free in our land. Written in 1886, 62 years before the creation of the State of Israel, the

poet Naphtali Herz Imber neatly summed up the quest for peace and freedom:

6-7 LeadershipMeet the New Members of our Board of TtrusteesFrom the Rabbi's StudyEarly Shabbat Service to Welcome Rabbi Katz

12 TraditionHigh Holy Day Recipes

8-9 Learning Building A Kehilah Kedosha—

A Sacred Community

Cantor Hayley Kobilinsky

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3 4 5 6 7 8 6 9 : ; 4 5 < = 5 9 ; > ; ? 7 9 8 @A B C D E F G H I I J K L C M N O P Q L D E N R S T U V U W(914) 273-2220 • fax (914) 273-2285 cbyarmonk.org • [email protected]/cbyarmonk • @cbyarmonk

Rabbi David Katz, Interim [email protected]

Cantor Hayley Kobilinsky [email protected]

Rabbi Douglas E. Krantz Founding Rabbi, Retired

Ava Saperstein Administrator [email protected] Pribish Bookkeeper [email protected] Vetere Facilities [email protected] Allison Communications Director [email protected] Gollin B’nai Mitzvah Coordinator [email protected] Joan Farber Interim Director of Education [email protected] Tejada-Ward Administrative Assistant to the Religious School [email protected]

BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Executive CommitteeLisa Broomer President Brian Kaminer Vice President, Finance Communications Co-chair Samantha Schwam Vice President, Programs; Caring/Social Action Co-chair; Transitions ChairDebra Ezratty Treasurer, Fundraising ChairBonni Stanley Secretary, Human Resources ChairIvy Levien Member-At-Large Members of the Board Susan Bloom CBY Cultural Connections Chair Sari Deutsch Membership Co-chairMichelle Eickelbeck Membership Co-chairDiane Freedman Jewish Identity Development Chair Sheldon Ganis Kara Klein Aaron Kwittken Communications Co-chairCookie Markho! Religious Practices ChairPaul Skurman High Holy Day Honors ChairBrian Socolow Rich Waksman Budget and Finance ChairAmy Yallof

Felicia Zacks

PAST PRESIDENTS

Lewis Scha! er John Stern Michael J. Gross ז״לMike Jacobs Lyle Halperin ז״ל Ann Leber Ellen Bernstein Charles Shapiro

Our Cornerstones

TraditionCongregation B’nai Yisrael connects individuals to our Jewish heritage and weaves our traditions into our individual and family identities. Our religious traditions form a framework for meaningful Jewish lives, and help us to to celebrate moments of wonder in life’s cycle and to " nd comfort in times of tragedy and sorrow. Our spiritual home connects our members to that which is Divine, to the rich variety of Jewish living, and to others in our community.

CommunityCongregation B'nai Yisrael is the center of Jewish life in Armonk. As a neighborhood synagogue, we form a bond among our member families. # e synagogue serves as a spiritual and a social center where individuals ful" ll their religious needs and " nd meaning in Judaism at every stage of life.

LearningLearning the lessons of our Jewish heritage is a primary focus at Congregation B'nai Yisrael. Together we discover the building blocks of Jewish life, expand our sense of self in a Jewish context, and apply Jewish wisdom to every stage of our journey.

Commitment to Others# e Jewish impulse to repair the world [Tikkun Olam] plays a central role in the life of our community. We care for other human beings and strive to make a di! erence in people’s lives through individual and communal acts of tzedakah here in Armonk, in our wider Westchester community, and throughout our world.

InvestmentWe are deeply committed to maintaining our vibrant community. We demonstrate our dedication by sharing our time and our resources to insure a healthy future for our synagogue.

LeadershipOur clergy and leadership are accessible and responsive. It is our responsibility to be deeply connected to one another, in order to hear what every individual and family needs, and learn how to strengthen our community.

RelevanceFrom ancient times, Judaism has thrived by maintaining its traditions in an evolving world. Our synagogue helps our families build contemporary Jewish lives. # rough celebration and study, by taking care of our own and reaching out to help others, by respecting every individual and embodying a spirit of diversity, we are able to be authentic Jews in a modern world.

Robert RegalMarilyn HeimerdingerShelly JacobDavid BrodyBarby K. Siegel Joel DworetzkyFrederic J. SiegelLawrence C. Fox

Printed on 100% recycled paper.

Read this issue of our Bulletin, as well as past issues, online at cbyarmonk.org under Calendar and Events.

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X Y Z Z [ \ ] ^ _

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As long as the Jewish spirit is yearning deep in the heart,With eyes turned toward the East, looking toward Zion,! en our hope–the two-thousand-year-old hope–will not be lost:To be a free people in our land! e land of Zion and Jerusalem. 1

You might notice that there is no hatred expressed in HaTikvah. It is purely hope. We all know that there are many, many people around the world expressing hatred today. And plenty of Jews among them. Is there an equal number expressing hope? What does the majority fee—is it hope or hatred? Extremists certainly sell hatred. ! e media so o# en pushes the hatred. Hatred sells papers and wins ratings. Grassroots peace e$ orts? Not so much. So I ask the following question: Where is the voice of the moderate?

You may notice that I haven’t been speci% c about from where the hope is coming, nor have I speci% ed from where the hatred is coming, because both are coming from all around us. Jews, Arabs, Christians, Americans, Israelis… No, I mustn’t begin a list, because it has no end. Let it not go unsaid: none of us are immune to (or better than) hatred.

We, the moderates, must speak up. We, the moderates, must place the desires of the majority (I HOPE it is the majority) into the headlines. We, the moderates, must focus on the hope of the future. If we, the moderates don't speak up, then hatred gets the spotlights, no competition.

! ere is a powerful metaphor I heard,2 used to refer to a challenge which needs to be dealt with on more than one front. It was regarding the % ght against malaria—“We have to drain the swamps AND distribute the quinine.” I would suggest that we must promote, work with, and invest in peaceful organizations that focus on bringing young people together, not driving them apart. We know the importance of starting young. ! e poison of hatred drips down, generation to generation, and the power of hatred must not be ignored. If we don’t (in the words of Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young) “teach the children well,” then others will do it for us. ! ere are all too many in* uences that will infect their thinking. True, organizations which focus on peace will draw primarily from an audience which is already in agreement.

continues from cover

However, these amazing, inspirational organizations which thrive and do wonderful, important work, don't get enough press for it. I ask readers who have made it this far, imagine what could be if each of those stand-out organizations had a spotlight in the media and enough funding to expand and bring in as many young people as possible?

Please do further reading. Look up these organizations and the many more like them:

• Hands of Peace (handsofpeace.org), “an interfaith organization developing peacebuilding and leadership skills in Israeli, Palestinian and American teens, through the power of dialogue and personal relationships.”

• Seeds of Peace (seedsofpeace.org), a summer camp and year-round leadership program which “inspires and equips new generations of leaders from regions of con* ict with the relationships, understanding, and skills needed to advance lasting peace.”

• HeartBeat (heartbeat.fm), a performing band which “unites Israeli and Palestinian youth musicians to build critical understanding develop creative nonviolent tools for social change, and amplify their voices to in* uence the world around them.” I feel so lucky to have had the opportunity to see them perform in Israel this July when I attended the annual convention of the American Conference of Cantors.

Finally, an organization for families and those of all ages:

• ! e Parents Circle Families Forum (theparentscircle.com), an organization of bereaved families, both Israeli and Palestinian, which focuses its e$ orts on “reconciliation between individuals and nations…to [achieve] a sustainable peace.”

! is is my hope, HaTikvah, for the future: that maybe, just maybe, these organizations will produce the leaders of the future. ! at one day there will be a leader for the Palestinian people, and one for the Israeli people, who come NOT from those intent on and infected with hatred, but from those who were vaccinated against, or (dare I say it) treated and cured of hatred. Call me naïve; I can take it. But to not work towards a better future? ! at I can NOT take. Nor should you. It’s a small world, a# er all.

! e postscript to my story: A glimmer of hope appeared in ! e New York Times’ Sunday Review, which published an article online on Aug. 22, 2014 (in the New York print edition of Aug. 24, 2014, page SR9), entitled “Peace ! rough Friendship,” on the positive results of peaceful organizations like the ones above. It made me happy indeed, although they beat my publication date. ! at’s OK by me; they have a wider audience. ! ank you, New York Times, for giving press where press is due.

1 Translation taken from http://www.stateo% srael.com/anthem/2 I heard this metaphor from our Founding Rabbi, Douglas E. Krantz, who informed me he heard the phrase from Israeli politician, paci% st, and musician Joseph Abileah.

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` a b b c d e f g

CBY will attempt to form a brotherhood in early September. ! e purpose is to provide friendly comradery, social and educational participation amongst men of all ages. ! e CBY kicko" event is scheduled to be a 1:00 p.m. family tailgate in the CBY parking lot Sunday, October 19 before the 4:30 p.m. Giants/Cowboys game in Dallas (the Jets don’t play this day). In order for this event to happen, CBY needs a few good men to form an initial committee. If you are interested join our meeting on Sunday, September 7 at 10:15 a.m. in the CBY Library. For questions, contact Allan Rata# a at allan@rata# a.com.

CBY Brotherhood Forming:

Members Needed

High Holy Days 5775

YOM KIPPUR

Kol Nidre Service Friday, 10/3, 8:00 p.m. Yom Kippur Morning Service Saturday, 10/4, 10:00 a.m. Yom Kippur Dialogue Saturday, 10/4, 12:30 p.m. Family Service, up to age 10 Saturday, 10/4, 2:30 p.m. A! ernoon Service Saturday, 10/4, 3:30 p.m. Memorial & Closing Services Saturday, 10/4, 4:30 p.m.

ROSH HASHANAH

Erev Rosh Hashanah Service Wednesday, 9/24, 8:00 p.m.Rosh Hashanah Morning Service ! ursday, 9/25, 10:00 a.m. Family Service, up to age 10 ! ursday, 9/25, 2:30 p.m. Tashlich at Wampus Pond ! ursday, 9/25, 3:30 p.m.

Beginning this year, Congregation B'nai Yisrael will strictly enforce its policy of requiring passes to attend all High Holy Day services with the only exceptions being Family Services on Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur and the Memorial Service on Yom Kippur. Passes will be checked at the High School parking lot and only those who have a valid pass will be allowed to board a bus to the Temple. For drop-offs by car at the Temple, passes will be checked at the parking lot entrance. Passes may also be checked at the Temple entrance. As always, please allow yourself adequate time when planning to attend services.

Honors and Acknowledgements

Paul Skurman, Honors & Acknowledgements

Committee Chair

With input from the Board and Clergy our committee will select this year’s honorees. ! is will be a di$ cult task because not everyone who is deserving of an honor can be selected this year. However, our plan is to recognize others who should be honored in the years to come.

It is with great enthusiasm that we continue this tradition that a" ords us the opportunity to celebrate the richness of our temple family. We look forward to seeing you during the holidays.

! is year we are continuing our tradition of calling up members of our congregation to the bimah during the morning of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur to participate in the services. ! is honor will be given to selected members of the congregation—those who are “leaders,” “do-ers,” “givers,” “elders” and “learners.”

! e Honors and Acknowledgements Committee has been formed at the direction of the Board of Trustees and I am Chairing the committee. ! e other members of the committee are Joanne Peyser, Karen Sherman, Marcia Goldstein and Jocelyn Deutsch.

CongratulationsTo Bernard and Shelly Jacob on the engagement of their daughter, Amy, to David KlausnerMarc and Susan Failing on the birth of their granddaughter, Blake Anne Robbins, to their daughter, Valerie, and Danny Robbins

In MemoriamBernard Goodman, father of Susan OkinJoan Cziner, mother of David CzinerLeonard Hertzlich, father of Caryl Hahn

Melvin Fader, father of Ilyse Bauer

Our Congregation WelcomesBarry and Lisa Geller and their children, Rebecca and MatthewJerome PickholzEfraim Berkovich and Alison Le" and their children, Jacob and Karlie

Page 5: CBY Fall 2014 Bulletin

CBY Cultural Connections

Now in its third year, CBY Cultural Connections is planning a wide variety of programs, including an author series, cooking classes, and art and � lm programs. Save the date for the following events, and keep an eye out for more events and programs in our weekly Shabbat Shalom email, on our website: cbyarmonk.org, and in our next Bulletin in the winter.

JEWISH HARLEM WALKING TOUR | Tuesday, October 7. $30/person. 20 person limit.Join Marty Shore, urban historian and founder of Manhattan Walks, as he leads us through the sites of Jewish religious life in the remarkable urban settlement of Harlem, once the second largest Jewish community in the United States. Optional lunch to follow at Red Rooster. Exact times and transportation TBD. Jewish Harlem Walking Tour is through the Lower East Side Jewish Conservancy.

NICHOLAS KRISTOF | Monday, October 27, 7:00 p.m.Nicholas Kristof and Sheryl WuDunn, winners of the Pulitzer Prize and the authors of the #1 bestseller Half the Sky, will be discussing their new book A Path Appears: Transforming Lives, Creating Opportunity, a unique and essential narrative about making a di! erence in the world.

SOUL DOCTOR | Wednesday, December 3O! -Broadway show that is a cross between Fiddler on the Roof and Hair

h i j j k l m n o

Early Shabbat Services

" is year our Early Shabbat Service will be twice a month, on the 1st and 3rd Friday of the month at 6:30 p.m. To check Shabbat service times each week, visit our website at cbyarmonk.org or check our weekly Shabbat Shalom email. Early Services will be on September 5, September 19, October 17, November 7, 21, December 5, 19, January 2, 16, February 6, 20, March 6, 20, April 17, May 1, 15, and June 5.

Nicaragua Community Service Trip Informational Meeting

Last year a group of 8 of our young people and adults traveled to Nicaragua to build a house for a week and returned with invaluable lessons and an ever-lasting bond. " e trip was sponsored through Bridges to Community, an organization that started over 20 years ago and has hosted hundreds of trips to help with the extreme poverty in Nicaragua.

In February 2015 Bridges to Community and Congregation B'nai Yisrael will be hosting a second Community Service Trip To Nindiri, Nicaragua. Together we will work on ongoing community development projects for families living in Nindiri all while building relationships of empathy, respect and support.

Come � nd out how you can be part of this meaningful experience at our Informational Meeting on Tuesday, September 16 at 6:30 p.m. in our CBY Social Hall. Our trip is open to our students ages 15 and older and adults.

For questions contact Samantha Schwam and Lisa Mazure, Caring and Social Action Committee Chairs, at [email protected]

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Page 6: CBY Fall 2014 Bulletin

Felicia Zacks• Congregant since: 2011. Board member: 2014• Family: husband, Toby; daughters, Lila and Chloe• School: Pine Manor• Work: business development and copywriter for Zagwear• Where grew up: Old Brookville, New York• Other organizations: volunteer at the Pleasantville Cottage School• Activities/interests: skiing, movies, music, writing, dogs

My early career was as a beauty and ! tness editor at Cosmopolitan magazine. Years later, I worked in the corporate o" ce of Ian Schrager Hotels, handling in-house public relations as well as making arrangements for celebrities and VIPs. I grew up in a Jewish family, but we were never very religious. My Judaism and that of my immediate family is something I've always wanted to explore further. It is very important to me that my daughters grow up knowing their heritage and I look forward to the day when they are called to the Torah. I am excited and very much looking forward to contributing to the Congregation B'nai Yisrael community.

Amy Yallof• Congregant since: 2010. Board member: 2014• Board roles/Committees: Fundraising and Membership• Family: Matt (my husband) and 3 kids: Alex & Abby (10) and Isabella (12)• School: Marymount Manhattan College, NYC• Work: Marketing and Media Consultant• Where grew up: Roslyn, NY• Activities/Interests: Walking/Running, Tennis, Reading, Spending time with Family, Surrogacy Advocate

# e Yallof Family moved to Armonk in 2006 with 3 young children. Previously, we lived outside of Philadelphia for 6 years, and Bu$ alo for 2 years. Given that Matt and I had not grown up in religious households, we both felt strongly that we wanted our children to have a Jewish identity. When our older daughter was ready to start Hebrew school, we explored numerous congregations in the area. B’nai Yisrael was a natural ! t for our family. # e clergy and sta$ were warm and welcomed our family into the community immediately. Since we joined, I have participated in a number of activities, including spearheading the Hebrew school grade Shabbat dinners, Purim parties, Holiday Wrapping Event and recently chaired the auction for CBY’s annual fundraiser. Professionally, I am Direct Marketing consultant and Media Strategist with over 20 years experience in the o% ine and online marketplaces. Working part-time helps me keep balance in my life while still having an active role as a mom for my children. I am extremely excited and honored to be part of CBY’s Board of Directors. I recently joined the Membership and Fundraising Committees and I look forward to helping move CBY forward during this transition period. My daughter will have her Bat Mitzvah on May 2, 2015 and we are overjoyed to celebrate with our CBY family!

Cookie MarkhoffWhen I was in High School in Mt. Vernon, New York, I knew I wanted to become a teacher. A+ er college and obtaining my Masters in History from Columbia University, I taught in Social Studies at Lincoln High School in Yonkers, never thinking I would become involved in Jewish Education. A+ er having 3 children, and living in Northern Westchester, I was asked if I would teach a class of young children at # e Pound Ridge Jewish Community. I was hooked, and Jewish Education became part of my life. In 1983, I became the ! rst Principal of Congregation B’nai Yisrael. What excited me about this new position was that this young congregation was enthusiastic about becoming involved in the Union of Reform Judaism’s new education project, To See # e World # rough Jewish Eyes. # rough this curriculum, children and adults alike, explored their Jewish identity by bringing all aspects of our Jewish heritage into their lives. CBY became a family, exploring and learning together. In 2000, I decided it was time to slow down, and just be a member of CBY. I served on various committees, chaired the membership committee, served on the Board, received the Howard Peyser Award, and in 2009 to 2011 became acting principal. At the present time, I am a member of Board of Trustees of # e Jewish Education Project, a member of several UJA task forces, as well as # e Special Needs Round Table, and Building Communities, which advocates and supports Jewish families with special needs. # e membership, clergy, and sta$ of our congregation are very much a part of my life and that of my family. It is a place where my family worships, where three of my seven grandchildren have attended Religious school, celebrated their Bar and B’not Mitzvot, and become con! rmands. It is our home.

6

Meet the New Members of our Board of Trustees

p q r s q t u v w x

Learn more about all of the congregants currently serving on our Board on our website: cbyarmonk.org.

Page 7: CBY Fall 2014 Bulletin

From the Rabbi's Study

Rabbi David Katz, Interim

I become your Interim Rabbi with high hopes that the year ahead will be fruitful and productive, that our congregation will prosper and that we will successfully move forward in all our endeavors. Many people have been kind to Nancy and me as we made our way from the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh to Armonk. For this we are grateful.

First impression? � e beautiful foliage is beautiful in Westchester. Winding roads leads through green forests. � ere is a calm, peaceful sense of contentment.

But just as we arrived, hostilities grew outside this lovely corner of the world. Wars have raged. Israel has battled her neighbors—once again. Planes unexpectedly disappeared from the radar. Peace, it seems, is ever elusive. As the High Holy Days approach, let us all pray for peace between the peoples of the world but also within our own nation as well, within our cities and in our neighborhoods. And let us pray for peace within our homes and within our families—between parents and children, between husbands and wives, between brothers and sisters. Our lives are simply too short to dwell on pettiness. We are given a brief time on this earth and each moment needs to be treasured. God has given us a choice. Our hearts can be � lled with anger and sadness or our hearts can be � lled with compassion and joy.

Let us strive for wisdom and turn to joy.

Early Shabbat Service to

Welcome Rabbi Katz

Join us on Friday, September 5 at 6:30 p.m. for an Early Shabbat Service followed by Oneg to welcome Rabbi Katz and his wife Nancy.

� e High Holy Days call us to the highest vision of ourselves. During this season of introspection we ask ourselves how far we have come and where we are going. Have we done our best to create a better world and given everything that we could? Or were we discouraged because the world disappointed us or because we did not live up to the best that was in us?

We have been blessed with food and shelter to sustain us and the sun continues to shine everyday. For these gi! s of life we should give thanks and return the blessings that are ours with deeds of loving kindness.

Let us pray for peace in the world and at the same time create peace in our homes.

Another year goes and another year comes. � is year we take the journey together.

L’shanah Tovah.

TORAH STUDY | Saturdays, 9:00- 9:45 a.m. • Resumes September 13

A weekly opportunity every Shabbat morning in our library to discuss the week’s Torah portion with our clergy. Come every week or once in a while; all you need to bring is an open mind.

ROSH CHODESH LUNCHEON & STUDY GROUP | Fridays at noon once a month, dates TBD

Rosh Chodesh is a special holiday where we � nd peace, enrichment, and sisterhood. At CBY we are a grassroots gathering of women who meet

each Hebrew month to celebrate the new moon. We serve lunch and share in informal programs focusing on Jewish and/or women’s issues.

TEXT IN THE CITY | Wednesdays at noon, Dates TBD, at Pryor Cashman LLP, Times Square, NYC

STUDY IN THE SUBURBS | Wednesdays at noon, 10/15, 11/19, 12/17, 1/21, 2/25, 3/25, 4/15, 5/20 at Congregation B'nai Yisrael

Adult Education

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Page 8: CBY Fall 2014 Bulletin

Religious School Schedule 2014-2015

3rd grade Family Reorientation Program, � ursday, September 11, 6:00-8:00 p.m. � ursdays, 3:30-5:30 p.m., a� er school session begins September 18

4th grade Family Reorientation Program, � ursday, September 11, 6:00-8:00 p.m. � ursdays, 3:30-5:30 p.m., a� er school session begins September 18

5th grade Family Reorientation Program, Tuesday, September 9, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Tuesdays, 3:30-5:30 p.m., a� er school session begins September 16

6th grade Family Reorientation Program, Wednesday, September 10, 6:00-8:00 p.m. Wednesdays, 3:15-5:30 p.m., a� er school session begins September 17

7th grade Family Reorientation Program, Wednesday, October 1, 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Wednesdays, 3:15-5:30 p.m., a� er school session begins October 8

� e goal for our teens who have become b’nai mitzvah is that they develop the Jewish identity they have built here at CBY by exploring how to apply Judaism to their lives and world. Our leadership spent a lot of time focused on how we could connect to more of our teens in meaningful ways. It is out of those those discussions that we developed an entirely new post b'nai mitzvah program last year. We have shi! ed to an elective style system and are allowing our teens to choose those courses that they personally will " nd ful" lling. Program choices include:

▶ Taking individual courses based upon interest ▶ Being at CBY every Tuesday evening as a regular experience ▶ Con" rmation (requires at least 9 courses during grades 8-10)

To sign up or if you have questions, contact Rabbi Farber at (914) 273-2220 or [email protected].

Post B'nai Mitzvah Program: 8th-12th Grade

TOT SHABBAT | Fridays, 5:30-6:15 p.m. 9/12, 10/10, 11/14, 12/12, 1/9, 2/6, 3/13, 4/10, 5/8

Tot Shabbat is a time for our children to experience Shabbat through storytelling and music with their parents. Our program is shared with our clergy and features the music, fun and excitement of Kenny Green.

KINDERGARTEN | Sundays, 9:30-11:00 a.m. 9/14, 10/19, 11/16, 12/14, 1/25, 2/8, 3/22, 4/19, 5/3

Our Kindergarten program is an experience for the whole family to learn about the Jewish holidays, Jewish food, and Jewish living.

1st AND 2nd GRADE PROGRAM | Sundays, 9:30-10:15 a.m. (weekly), following our pancake breakfast at 9:00 a.m. for

the whole family. Begins 9/14. Family Days: 9/14, 10/19, 11/16, 12/14, 1/25, 2/8, 3/22, 4/19, 5/3

For Our Young Families

Our programs for young families are free and open to the community.

SUKKAH DECORATING AND FAMILY DINNER | Wednesday, October 9 • 5:30 p.m.

SIMCHAT TORAH SERVICE AND CONSECRATION | Friday, October 17 • 6:30 p.m.

Celebrate our Torah as we begin a new Torah reading cycle for the year. During our special service our 1st graders will be called up to the bema to receive a special blessing as they embark on their new journey in our Jewish Identity Program and our 3rd graders who are beginning their Hebrew studies will help lead the marching around the sanctuary with our Torah.

Holiday Celebrations

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Page 9: CBY Fall 2014 Bulletin

9

� � � � � � � �With the new school year approaching, there is much to look forward to: the students ! lling the halls with laughter, the teachers encouraging the students’ questions and the rekindling of friendships. " e summer has been quiet and given me plenty of time to prepare for September. I have been meeting with teachers and parents and ordering the needed supplies.

" is year, we are focusing on building a Kehilah Kedosha, a sacred and caring community within the religious school. With the shi# in the schedule which will bring two grades into the building on Wednesdays and " ursdays, we will be able to bring the students together for music, holiday celebrations and special programs (! # h grade will also have the same celebrations and programs). We will be doing activities to introduce the children in the di$ erent grades to each other. " rough community building exercises, we will hopefully create a Kehilah Kedosha which encourages cooperation and caring.

In order the bring our Kehilah Kedosha to the greater community, the Jewish Identity Development (JID) Committee, chaired by Diane Freedman, is developing a series of mitzvah projects for each grade.

Building A Kehilah Kedosha—A Sacred Community

Rabbi Joan Farber, Interim Director of Education

" ese mitzvah projects will be on-going, personal and in most instances local. " e projects might include book drives, making cards for the military, volunteering at shelters and the food bank. " e JID committee is committed to making the performance of mitzvot an integral part of our Kehilah Kedosha.

" e curriculum remains the same as in past years with a few enhancements. " e Hebrew program will be using a new series called Kol Yisrael, which includes all of the prayers we have taught in the past and an on-line component which is linked to the text. In addition, each grade will have access to on-line features to enhance their learning. Teachers have been using videos and YouTube clips in the classrooms and this will be easier with our new large screen internet enabled television and two iPads.

As the students, parents and teachers build our Kehilah Kedosha together, we will share the joys of Judaism and learning together.

Rabbi Joan Farber visited our campers over the summer and received a certi! cate of appreciation on behalf of CBY for outstanding support for sending 10 children to URJ Summer Youth Programs: Eisner, Crane Lake, and Six Points Sci-tech camps and NFTY in Israel.

Page 10: CBY Fall 2014 Bulletin

� � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � � �High Holy Days Food Drive Upcoming Programs

Mitzvot Weekend: December 13 & 14

MIDNIGHT RUN Saturday, December 13Every winter CBY participates in the Midnight Run, providing a meal, clothing and toiletries for NYC's homeless. We help by donating essential items and food, preparing meals and packing up clothing/blankets, and driving to NYC to deliver the donations to the homeless. While helping the homeless, we break through the barriers of prejudice and fear that separate us from “the homeless" and learn to see them as real people.

CHANUKAH GIFT DRIVE Sunday, December 14Our ! rst Chanukah Gi# Drive in 2011 exceeded our expectations. Over 75 congregants of all ages spent the morning wrapping 300 holiday gi# s for residents of the Pleasantville Cottage School, a residential treatment center for emotionally troubled young people. $ e gi# s and wrapping paper were all donated by our families. Since then, it has become a yearly program that brings families together to help make the holidays happier for the young people living at the Cottage School.

SHOPPING FOR THE HUNGRY OngoingWe collect food weekly to donate to the Community Center of NW. Food donations can be dropped o% at CBY at any time.

COAT DRIVE November through JanuaryEach year we help our neighbors stay warm by collecting gently used, clean coats, mittens, sweaters, and scarves. Our families have an opportunity donate items, as well as hand them out to people in need during the Midnight Run.

PAJAMA DRIVE November through JanuaryTo help our youngest neighbors in need stay warm in the winter we collect sleepwear, robes, socks and slippers for children, ages infant through 18 years. $ e Pajama Drive is also sponsored by the Community Center of NW.

EMERGENCY SHELTER PARTNERSHIP March 2-8For several years CBY has joined with the Emergency Shelter Partnership and is one of several religious organizations to help house the local homeless of Northern Westchester. For a week we provide cook hot meals and stay overnight with those in need.

KLEZMER CONCERT May 7Every year we host a Klezmer Concert for the Havorah Program of Westchester Jewish Community Services. $ e concert is a unique opportunity for people with developmental disabilities to experience Jewish life. Our families greet our guests and serve snacks, o% ering us an opportunity to interact and share a special evening with the disabled community in Westchester.

BLOOD DRIVE Spring, Date TBDCBY hosts an annual Blood Drive with the New York Blood Center.

As we enjoy the abundance around us, we remember our neighbors who are struggling to put food on their table. Our Caring and Social Action Committee will be distributing bags with a list of needed items from our local food bank a# er Rosh Hashanah services. We encourage everyone to ! ll the bags with food donations and return them on Yom Kippur. $ e food will be delivered by the committee to the Community Center of Northern Westchester. Our 2013 Food Drive collected over 1,758 pounds of food and we

look forward to collecting even more in 2014.

Needed ItemsCanned fruit and vegetables � Tuna and canned meatCans of soup, beef stew and chili � Peanut butter and jellyPasta, rice and spaghetti sauce � Dried and canned beansFruit juice � Hot and cold cereal � Baby food and diapers

Congregation B’nai Yisrael became the 28th community partner of the Community Center of Northern Westchester in March 2010. $ rough the e% orts of the Caring and Social Action Committee, our congregation supports the Center through a variety of annual events, including weekly food collection and High Holy Day food drive, Zero Waste Day, and our School Supplies, Prom Dresses, and Pajama drives.

$ e Community Center of Northern Westchester was formed as a response to the Katonah community’s need for food and clothing during an economic downturn in 1992. Today the Community Center o% ers a range of services, including providing food and clothing for hundreds of households in Northern Westchester, employment counseling and classes, and assisting clients in accessing other resources, including health care, educational and social services. $ e Community Center operates solely through community partner and individual volunteer e% orts and donations. For more information, visit communitycenternw.org.

Community Center of Northern

Westchester Community Partner

Sleeping Bags NeededEvery year CBY participates in the Emergency Shelter Partnership which provides short term housing for local homeless during the winter months. For the upcoming winter the Partnership is in need of gently-used, adult

size sleeping bags. Donations can be dropped o! at the temple.

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Page 11: CBY Fall 2014 Bulletin

Donations

General FundKenneth and Kimberly Glinert, in honor of Rabbi Limmer's 14 years of service at Congregation B'nai YisraelNorman and Ilana Adler, in memory of Sara Rachmani and Guessie Adler Robert Goldberg and Janice Yass Goldberg, in appreciation of their beautiful wedding ceremony at the templeStanley and Ina Lane, in memory of Burt I. Sherman and Shirley Sherman Rabbi Katz's Discretionary FundDavid Cziner and Leslie Blum, in memory of Joan Cziner

Cantor Kobilinsky's Discretionary Fund

Martin and Elisa Rube, in memory of Harvey Stahl

Rabbi Krantz's Discretionary FundMark and Arlene Comora, thanking Rabbi Krantz for all his

help

Tree of LifeLeaves have been placed on our Tree of Life in honor of

Matthew Deutsch • Bar Mitzvah • September 6, 2014

Memorial WallNames have been placed on our Memorial Wall in memory of

Leon CairoPhyllis R. PickholzShirley Meringola

11

� � �   ¡ ¢ £   � ¢We look forward to what promises to be an incredible year at Congregation B’nai Yisrael of Armonk. We are grateful to all of you for your support in helping our synagogue through this year of transition. With your continued help and active engagement, our CBY community will come out stronger than ever. Last year we began to lay the cultural foundation for the new era of CBY and worked to establish a ! nancial system that better re" ects the familial spirit at the heart of our synagogue. We were blessed with a successful High Holy Day Fundraiser and are con! dent that with your help we will be able to repeat or exceed that success this year. We are indebted to all the people who generously support our community during our campaign. Regardless of the amount, all donations are greatly appreciated. # ese gi$ s provide a signi! cant portion of the funds needed to maintain and enrich our spiritual home. # is will have profound impact on how well our temple can

serve its members in the coming year.

Like last year, families who donate at the Endorser level or higher will be recognized with a formal tribute display identifying those who give to the campaign at those levels. # is display will remain in our synagogue lobby throughout the year and is just the ! rst of many ways in which we will thank and honor all of those who give generously to our CBY family. Every contribution to our High Holy Day campaign will be appreciated and acknowledged in our Bulletin.

For more information on our tribute, please contact the temple o% ce.

High Holy Day CampaignSheldon Ganis, Board of Trustees

¤ ¥ £ £ � ¢ £   � ¢ ¢ ¥ ¥ ¢ ¦   § ¡For fourteen years, the Community Center of Northern Westchester has provided thousands of students with basic school supplies.

# e following items are needed and can be dropped o& at CBY:

School Supplies Drive

A donation of $25 will provide a student with basic supplies. (Make your check out to CCNW with “School Supplies” in the memo section and mail it to CCNW, 84 Bedford Road, Katonah NY 10536)

Black & white marble composition booksBlue or black pens (package of 10-12)Crayola Washable Broad-Tip MarkersCrayola crayons (box of 24)Crayola large crayonsColored pencilsColoring book or padHandheld pencil sharpener

Large glue sticks#2 pencils (package of 12)5" scissors1” 3-ring binder3” x 3” Post-Its3” x 5” white ruled index cards12" ruler with standard & metric units

Notebook ! ller paper

Nylon pencil bagPink "Pearl" eraserSubject dividersSingle subject notebooksTwo-pocket plastic folders

Yellow highlighters

Page 12: CBY Fall 2014 Bulletin

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High Holy Days Recipes

Ingredients¨ c. vegetable oil

2 large eggs

¾ c. honey

1 c. strong coffee (not hot)

1 c. sugar

1 tsp. baking soda

1 tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. ground cinnamon

1 tsp. allspice

3 c. flour¨c. raisins

� ese recipes are from Congregation B'nai Yisrael's Family Cookbook, Delicious Dishes. To buy a copy, contact the temple o� ce.

DirectionsPreheat oven to 335 degrees. (Yes, that's 335 degrees). Coat a 9 inch

loaf pan with nonstick spray. Line it with waxed paper and spray the

paper. In a large bowl, mix together all the ingredients, except the fl our

and raisins, and stir vigorously until well mixed and smooth. (Sieve the

baking soda and baking power into the mixture if they're lumpy.) Stir in

the fl our until well incoporated, then the raisins. Pour into the lined pan

and bake 1 to 1 © hours, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes

out clean. Cool in the pan on a wire rack 15 to 20 minutes, then invert

onto the rack and remove the waxed paper. Turn right side up and cool

completely. Serves 9 or more, depending on how big you cut the slices.

Variation: Substitute chocolate chips or nuts for raisins.

This recipe is from my mother-in-law Ellen Greene. I ask her to make

it every Rosh Hashanah because it is so delicious.

DirectionsCombine all the ingredients, except the garnish, in large saucepan. Simmer

over medium heat until squash and apples are tender, about 30 minutes.

Transfer to the bowl of a food processor and puree until smooth. Serve

hot or cold, with garnish.

Cook the squash in the microwave oven approximately 2 minutes to make

peeling easier.

Ingredients4 tsp. butter, melted© c. honey© c. Saucy Susan or apricot jam

4 Tbsp. Dijon mustard

2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced

2 Tbsp. white wine

2 Tbsp. soy sauce

12 chicken pieces (bone in)

Paprika

DirectionsIn a large baking pan, mix togther the first 7 ingredients to prepare

the marinade. Coat the chicken well; cover with foil or plastic wrap

and refrigerate overnight. Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Turn the

chicken pieces skin side up; baste with sauce, sprinkle with paprika,

and bake 1 ª hours, basting occasionally, until brown and cooked

through. Serves 6.

It's sweet and yummy and perfect for the holidays.

B u t t e r n u t S q u a s h S o u p A n n L e b e r

Ingredients¾ butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and cut up¨

lb. green apples, cored (but unpeeled) and cut up

1 medium onion, peeled and chopped

2 c. chicken stock

1 tsp. fresh lemon juice

1 small sprig fresh rosemary or © tsp. dried

1 small sprig fresh marjoram or ¨

tsp. dried

⅛ tsp. salt

Pepper to taste

Plain yogurt, sour cream, or creme fraiche to garnish

« ¬ ­ ® ¯ « ¯ ° ±H o n e y C a k e L o r i G r e e n e

H o l i d a y C h i c k e n L o r i a n d B o b H o r o w i t z

Page 13: CBY Fall 2014 Bulletin

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Page 14: CBY Fall 2014 Bulletin

To advertise in our quarterly Bulletin,

contact Alicia in the temple o� ce at

(914) 273-2220, [email protected].

Selling a Car, Truck or 4x4?Help CBY by donating a vehicle you no longer need.

Donating your vehicle is safe, fast, and tax deductible.Some restrictions apply.

� is service is provided free to the temple.

For more information, please callAuto-Line Enterprises at (914) 681-1757

Jewish Harlem Walking Tour | Tuesday, October 7

Family Sukkah Decorating & Dinner | Wednesday, October 8 • 5:30 p.m.

Text in the City | Wednesdays, 12:00 p.m. in NYC, Dates TBD

Study in the Suburbs | Wednesdays, October 15, November 19, December 17, 12:00 p.m. at CBY

Simchat Torah & Consecration Service | Friday, October 17 • 6:30 p.m.

Author Series: Nicholas Kristof | Monday, October 27, 7:00 p.m.

Ecumenical ! anksgiving Service | Tuesday, November 25 • 8:00 p.m.

Soul Doctor: O! -Broadway Show | Wednesday, December 3

Midnight Run | Saturday, December 13

Chanukah Gi" Giving Party | Sunday, December 14 • 11:00 a.m.

Visit our website at cbyarmonk.org for a full calendar of programs and events.

Save the Date

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Page 15: CBY Fall 2014 Bulletin

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Page 16: CBY Fall 2014 Bulletin

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PERMIT NO. 4438å æ ç è æ æ é ê ë æ é ì í î é ê ë

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practical and especially social applicability:

my Judaism has relevance to my modern life.

ï ð ñ ð ò ó ô õ ðWelcoming the Stranger: Hachnasat Orchim ohjrut ,xbfv

Cantor Hayley Kobilinsky

Judaism treats “welcoming the stranger” as a particularly important commandment, and is a concept dealt with early in the Torah in the book of Genesis, when Abraham and Sarah warmly welcomed travelers to their tent and provided them with food and drink. ! e Talmud re" ects on the importance of this action, and we incorporate it into modern practice by inviting guests to one’s sukkah and to the seder table on Sukkot and Pesach, respectively. Furthermore, Jews who pray daily recite a short list of the most signi# cant of our 613 commandments, of which “hachnasat orchim” is one. How do we make hachnasat orchim happen? On some level, it’s easy: it occurs each time we hold the door for someone or make small-talk at a baseball game. Judaism gives us many tools to welcome others.

! e scholars of the Talmud try to outdo each other to express how important welcoming the stranger is: Judah Loew ben Bezalel referred to Pirkei Avot when he wrote, “When one extends hospitality to guests, one is welcoming human beings who are created in God’s image. ! is is in essence a Godly activity…” Dimi of Naharda’ah, goes so far as to say that hospitality to guests “is even greater than arising early to attend Beit Midrash” (Torah study). A third, Yehudah, quotes “Rav” in saying that “welcoming guests is greater than greeting the Shechinah (Divine Presence).”

Our liturgy over" ows with the urgent charge to remember—zeicher—being taken out of Egypt, and that we were slaves in that land. If we can suspend disbelief and imagine ourselves as the outsider, it focuses us on the task of being welcoming. ! e last three words of our festive Shabbat song Yismechu are about remembering our time in Egypt; not ironically, its upbeat rhythm and catchy melody make people smile at one another and sing along in harmony.

On the holiday of Sukkot, we welcome guests to our sukkah whom are called “ushpizin,” a word derived from Aramaic. It is our task to invite them, include them and rejoice with them. One might infer the goal is to teach the strangers, but in fact, we are to learn from them. Some provide a special chair for the ushpizin, who are said to embody a lesson about welcoming. ! e temporary nature of a sukkah helps us recognize how uncertain our footing is and how quickly we, too, can become a wayfarer.

We live in a time when children are taught to not speak to strangers, and when we lock our doors and set alarms just in case. Yet we must maintain our humanity and give of ourselves, which is not easy to do in such an environment. Take the opportunity during Shabbat services to introduce yourself to those seated around you. Since all our summer services take place at 6:30 p.m., consider inviting others to have dinner a% erwards. Go for a walk on a warm evening this summer and meet new neighbors. And by all means, stop in to the temple or come to one of our upcoming meet-and-greets to welcome our new interim rabbi. We look forward to seeing you and welcoming you!