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| September 4, 2010 |
Vol. 1. Issue 36 |
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What's Going On...
Congregation Rodeph Sholom
"Golden Apple"
Steuben Glass. Steuben Design Team.
ca. 2009. Height 4". Value: $2,900.
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| Shabbat Shalom! |
Steuben Glass 18 karat gold leaf and stem is an update of Steuben's classic apple. This iconic piece of art glass was first designed by Angus McDougall in 1940. Elegant in its simplicity, McDougall's apple has remained one of Steuben's most versatile gifts since its introduction in 1940. The apple update was first made available in 2009.
Steuben Glass Works is an American art glass manufacturer, founded in the summer of 1903 by Fredrick C. Carder and Thomas G. Hawkes in Corning, New York. Hawkes was the owner of the largest cut glass firm then operating in Corning.
Carder produced blanks for Hawkes and also began producing cut glass himself. Carder's great love was colored glass and had been instrumental in the reintroduction of colored glass while at Stevens and Williams. When Steuben's success at producing blanks for Hawkes became assured, Carder began to experiment with colored glass and continued experiments that were started in England. He soon perfected Gold Aurene which was similar to iridescent art glass that was being produced by Tiffany and others. Gold Aurene was followed by a wide range of colored art glass that eventually was produced in more than 7,000 shapes and 140 colors.
Steuben Glass Works continued to produce glass of all sorts until World War I. At that time war time restrictions made it impossible for Steuben to acquire the materials needed to continue manufacture. The company was subsequently sold to Corning Glass Works and became the Steuben Division. Carder continued as Division manager without any real change in the company's operation except that he now had reporting responsibilities to Corning Glass Works' management. Corning's management tried, mostly unsuccessfully, to limit the articles that Steuben made to only the most popular. Production continued until about 1932.
In 1932 there was a major change in Steuben management. The nationwide depression had limited the sale of Steuben and there was also a lessening of public interest in colored glass. In February 1932, John MacKay was appointed to Carder's position and Carder became Art Director, Corning Glass Works. Steuben then produced primarily colorless art glass whose production continues to this day. Steuben still produced colored art glass mostly to fill special orders; a few new colors were added after Carder lost control of the company. The last known sale for colored art glass by Steuben was in 1943.
Corning Glass Works appointed Arthur Houghton, Jr. as President in 1933, and under his leadership Steuben changed artistic direction toward more modern forms. Using a newly formulated glass developed by Corning (referred to as 10M) which had a very high refraction index, Steuben designers developed beautiful designs. In July 2008, Steuben was sold by Corning Incorporated for an undisclosed price to the Schottenstein Stores Corp. and continues producing the highest quality glass art for decorative and utilitarian use.
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| I Just Thought You'd Like To Know... |
I would like to extend a personal wish from Annie, Emily and myself to you and your family for a healthy and peaceful New Year 5771. I hope you enjoyed reading about the Steuben Glass Works. May you find only sweetness during this High Holy Day season and throughout the coming year.
All of the preparations for the High Holy Days are nearly complete and we here in the synagogue are looking forward to the holidays being a time of bustling activity and meaningful prayer for our congregants and visitors.
We have undertaken a Parking Lot Beautification Project this past week. While it might not necessarily be the "sexiest" of projects a synagogue can undertake, it is an extremely important one. With a building and property the size of Rodeph Sholom we have both a responsibility and obligation to maintain it, not just for our members, but for visitors to the synagogue, potential members, and the community at large. You will see that the median's that had become overgrown and filled with dead plantings have been removed. They have been cleaned and mulched to give our property a healthy look and feel. All of this work has been done at no additional expense to the congregation. I want to repeat this because it is very important--none of the work being done to the parking area of the synagogue has been done at the expense of the congregation. Each of the areas that have been "renovated" has been paid for through a generous contribution by one of our members and clergy. You will see before and after pictures in the next bulletin, along with a list of contributors. For any member who would like to contribute to continuing the beautification of the property please email or call me and I'll be happy to let you know what is next on the list of improvements. Together we will continue our ongoing revitalization of our property and begin to outline plans for the inside of our building.
I am also extremely pleased to let you know that I have been receiving calls fairly regularly from prospective members, giving in-depth tours of our facilities, and we have been fortunate to add a few new families with young children to our congregation. Additionally, we have added some Associate members and there is a level of energy I am seeing that is much greater than any since I began in this position nearly a year ago.
Through the hard work of our leadership and volunteers we have made significant strides in right-sizing Rodeph Sholom's staff and programs and services to best service our membership and we'll continue to do what is necessary and important to ensure we are fiscally sound while not sacrificing what we have all come to expect from Rodeph Sholom over our long and storied history.
Don't forget to let me know how we're doing. I encourage you each and every week to visit www.rodephsholom.com for the most up-to-date program and service information. And remember most of all, if I can be of help just give me a call, send me an email or drop by the office to visit, I'd love to see you! Thank you and Shabbat Shalom.
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| OUR MISSION |
Congregation Rodeph Sholom is dedicated to two guiding principles:
(i) To serve as a vibrant center for the practice and teaching of Conservative Judaism, and
(ii) create a spiritual and social atmosphere in which congregants feel part of a large synagogue family.
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| Upcoming Programs |
The synagogue family extends a Mazal Tov to Syrene and Bradd Robbins on the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Jacob this Shabbat, Saturday, September 4.
Haley Stein, daughter of Lisa and Seth Stein will become a Bat Mitzvah, this Monday, September 6. The synagogue family wishes the Steins a Mazal Tov on their simcha.
High Holy Day Tickets!
Ticekts may still be purchased by calling or stopping in the synagogue office. Please remember that you, your guests, and all visitors will need to have tickets to enter the Sanctuary during High Holy Day services. Professional security and off-duty Bridgeport Police will ensure that those with tickets are allowed into the building. Anyone without a ticket will be required to provide their name, address and a photo I.D. to the security or officer before being allowed inside.
Cemetery Visits--Important Reminder!
Rabbi Stein and Cantor Green will be conducting the short, annual "Kever Avot" memorial ceremony at both the new and old cemeteries this Sunday at 9:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. respectively. Kever Avot is the tradition of visiting the graves of our lost loved ones before the High Holy Days, as a way of setting the mood by reconnecting with our past, reviewing and appreciating the source of our values and our spirit of Judaism, and to ask forgiveness of the souls of our loved ones. It is one of the simplest and most meaningful ways of performing "Kibbud Av v'Eim" - honoring our mother and our father; honoring our fellow Jews. We will need a minyan at both cemeteries to say Kaddish. Usually some extra help at the old cemetery is needed and is greatly appreciated.
Looking for a gift for the High Holy Days?
Stop in and visit our gift shop in the synagogue, or our online Judaica shop at www.rodephsholom.judaicabeautiful.com. You're find beautiful and unique handcrafted items from Israel, as well as noted American and International artists. There is something for everyone and you'll be supporting your shul at the same time!
"SHIR DELIGHT" FAMILY FRIDAY SERVICE AND DELI DINNER
Join us Friday, September 3 from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. for a chill, casual, family friendly Friday night service followed by our Shabbat deli dinner. Start the new school year with friends and family in a relaxed setting filled with songs, stories and the magic of Kabbalat Shabbat. Cost: Adults $12.00, Children 12 and under $9.00.
YOM KIPPUR "REFRESHER" COURSE
A "Refresher" course taught by Arnie Rotenberg and Cantor Green, Sunday, September 12 from 10:45 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Open to all at no charge.
LULAV AND ETROG
RS CABARET WITH JULIE GOLD
Singer-Songwriter Julie Gold, most renowned for "From A Distance" made famous by Bette Middler, will entertain in an evening of cabaret, Saturday, October 9 at 8:00 p.m. More information and ticket prices to follow.
TALMUD TORAH
PRE-KINDERGARTEN HEBREW SCHOOL-TOTS FOR TORAH
It is never too early to introduce young children to Jewish Education; specifically, holidays and customs, Mitzvot, Bible stories, Tzedakah, community, etc. Sunday mornings from 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. here at Rodeph Sholom is the place to be for pre-kindergarten students beginning this fall. Children will also work on letter recognition, and on learning songs and prayers through rote. Children will learn through engaging means including: art, drama, music, cooking, dancing-everything that makes learning fun! We know that children who enjoy our pre- K program will look forward to becoming students at our Hebrew School and furthering their Jewish Education! We plan to learn by having fun! For more information contact Arnie Rotenberg, arnierotenberg@yahoo.com.
PARTNERS IN TEACHING
Got Three Hours? We need You! Our Hebrew School is looking for volunteers to assist our regular staff to teach about different aspects of Israel including its history and modern issues. Working with a teacher, you will be informed about the exciting things going on in Israel today, as well as pedagogic methods that will be beneficial in the classroom. Bring a new dynamic to our students, and also become part of a vibrant group of educated voices embracing and supporting Israel. Call or email Arnie Rotenberg, arnierotenberg@yahoo.com; to join this new, vibrant group.
ZEFF EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
SCRIP FOR SALE!
The Z.E.C.C. now has more scrip available to purchase in denominations of $25.00 and $50.00. If you would like to purchase the scrip for Stop & Shop or Shoprite, please contact Liz Englander, early childhood director, lenglander@snet.net, or Joan Frankel, jfrankel@snet.net in the main office.
ZECC MITZVAH PROJECT
The early childhood will be collecting used glasses and frames to donate to Dr. Gene Gold. They will be donated to the Lions Club for those in need. Please help out and drop your used glasses and frames in the box in front of the preschool, or leave them in the office for Liz Englander,
lenglander@snet.net for more information.
HAZAK
SUKKOT LUNCHEON
Hazak welcomes you back on Tuesday, September 28 at 1:00 p.m. to celebrate Sukkot at a luncheon. Join your friends and bring new Hazak friends. Men and women are welcome. Cost is $10.00 per perosn. For resefvations, please call the synagogue office at 203-334-0159 by September 20. For more information please call Edith Winick at 203-384-1867.
SOCIAL ACTION
MIZVAH CLOWNS
Our newest Chavurah begins, Sunday, October 10 from 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. with the first three hours at Rodeph Sholom and the final two hours at the Jewish Home for the Elderly. This Chavurah is geared for teens and adults to get involved in the mitzvah of Bikkur Cholim (visiting the sick), enabling you to learn how to interact with senior citizens, hospitalized patients and children with special needs. The program will include a training session during which each participant will receive a clown kit, balloons and balloon pum that will be yours to keep. After learning how to apply clown make-up, create balloon animals and undergoing role play exercises to better prepare you for your friendly visit, Mitzvah Clowns with visit the Jewish Home for the Elderly. Cost is $36.00 per person for materials, and you should plan on bringing your own colorful mis-matched clothes.
CONNECTICUT HOSPICE VOLUNTEER
If you or someone you know is looking for an opportunity to serve others in the community we would like to hear from you. Patients and families are in need of care and support, and as a Connecticut Hospice Volunteer, you can fill some hours during the day or evening, weekends too by assisting in an administrative capacity or offering direct care as a friendly visitor, provide pastoral or bereavement care, or help in the arts or meet transportation needs. For more information please contact Pat Corradino, Director of Volunteer Services, 1-800-8Hospice, ext. 510. You can also email pnowak@hospice.com.
FLEECE BLANKETS
The Social Action Committee is requesting all those who are making fleece blankets to finish them up and return them to the stage in Friend Hall in the next few weeks so that they may be given to Brady's Smile. This group brings blankets to children in ICU units in many hospitals. The fleece pieces are in a box behind the curtain on the stage. There are directions attached to each, but if you need help just contact Ellen Bedford, Karen Rainville or Shelley Kreiger. Please sign your name on the sheet when you take the blankets so we know who has them.
BAR/BAT MITZVAH
A Bar/Bat Mitzvah is a peak experience in our Jewish lives worthy of attention and celebration. In the midst of all the excitement, a mitzvah project redirects some of our resources (our money, our time, our energy) toward social justice. It reminds us that the celebration of the Bat/Bar mitzvah student amid centerpieces, flowers and balloons is not only a celebration of age and accomplishment but also a celebration of his/her capacity to heal the world. At Rodeph Sholom we not only teach our B'nai Mitzvah how to read from the Torah, but also the importance of mitzvah -- performing acts of kindness--of being Torah.
UPCOMING BAR AND BAT MITZVAH'S
Saturday, September 4: Jacob Robbins
Monday, September 6: Haley Stein
COMMUNITY NEWS
USCJ'S PROJECT RECONNECT
"Reflections by the Pond:" A Prelude to the Days of Awe. Saturday, September 4, 7:30 p.m.
Allegro Pianos, 1068 Long Ridge Road, Stamford. Presented by Temple Sinai Stamford
Featuring violinist Tali Kravitz, pianist Alex Ruvenshteyn, and "Stories from the Storm," lessons of resilience told by Temple Sinai congregants. For information and to RSVP call 203-322-1649.
BINNIE KLEIN
Binnie Klein at "New Authors Roundtable" Wednesday, September 15, 7:00 p.m. Borders, 1499 Post Road, Fairfield.
When Binnie Klein took up boxing in her mid-50s, the reaction from friends and acquaintances was always the same: "You?" Why, after all, would a middle-aged Jewish psychotherapist with no previous history of athletics take up boxing? In her book, Blows to the Head: How Boxing Changed My Mind, Klein offers a provocative tale of an unlikely contender whose unexpected fascination with boxing takes her beyond the ring and leads her back to her roots and to a surprising chapter of the Jewish immigrant experience.
SMILERS" WANTED AT JHE
Volunteers needed to smile with the residents of The Jewish Home for the Elderly in Fairfield as you assist residents in wheelchairs from their rooms to activities, the Dining Room, physical therapy appointments in the Gym, and other areas in the Home; visit residents and perhaps play a game of cards or Scrabble, enjoy a cup of coffee or make an ice cream sundae in the Home's Corner Cafe; surf the web, send email, and watch YouTube in the Residents' Library & Computer Lab; entertain with your guitar, clarinet, violin or on one of the Home's pianos; read to the visually impaired; assist in recreation activities; share your skills and talents with the people who built our community; bring the Book Cart around and give out reading material; serve as a Sales Associate in the Gift Shop.
Volunteers at The Jewish Home make their own schedules. Adults and teens are invited to contact Shelley Berman, Community Relations Coordinator, at (203) 365-6495 or sberman@jhe.org for more info. Individuals preparing for Bar and Bat Mitzvah, and others under 14 years old, are encouraged to become volunteers with one of their parents.
JEWISH FAIRFIELD COUNTY COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER
A project of the Connecticut Jewish Ledger, this weekly email highlights news, events, and organizations of interest throughout Fairfield County. You can view the variety of activities going on in our county and receive this informative Fairfield County e-newsletter by visiting www.jewishledger.com.
USCJ NEWS
CONSERVATIVE/MASORI JEWISH LEADERS WELCOME RESUMPTION OF PEACE TALKS
Leaders of Conservative/Masorti Jewish organizations today welcomed the announcement of resumption of direct peace talks between the Government of Israel and the Palestinian Authority. The following statement was released on behalf of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, Schechter Institute of Jewish Studies, Masorti Israel Foundation, Federation of Jewish Men's Clubs, Jewish Theological Seminary, Cantors Assembly, North American Association of Synagogue Executives, Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies, Women's League for Conservative Judaism, Jewish Educators Assembly, and Solomon Schechter Day School Association.
"The Conservative/Masorti Jewish community strongly welcomes the recent announcement that direct peace talks will resume this fall between the Government of Israel and the Palestinian Authority for the first time since 2008. We applaud President Obama and the administration for their leadership on this matter, and we thank Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Special Envoy George Mitchell for their dedicated efforts in securing peace and security in the Middle East.
"As peace talks resume, we urge all parties to demonstrate the leadership, courage and understanding necessary to reach a viable and permanent solution to the Israeli/Palestinian conflict.
We look forward to next month, when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President of the Palestinian Authority Mahmoud Abbas will sit down together, guided by U.S. mediation, to restart peace talks, and we thank Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak and Jordan's King Abdullah II for agreeing to participate. We are hopeful that these talks will lay the groundwork for agreements that will ultimately bring peace and reconciliation in the Middle East. The future of the region - and of Israel - depends on it."
SUPPORT THE TROOPS!
Michael and Carol Weinshel and Susan Spivack continue to support troops deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. Since 2005, they have adopted over 6,000 troops and now are adopting the soldiers of the 82nd Airborne who are being deployed to Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. Besides the high cost of postage to ship their packages, various items are needed and wanted by our soldiers need. Please contact the office for the list and we encourage you to share it with your friends and family. You may drop items off at Rodeph Sholom or contact Carol Weinshel at 203-372-6004 or at mica3@sbcglobal.net to make other arrangements. On behalf of all those who serve our nation, thank you for your support.
B'shalom,
Mark Block
Executive Director
mblock@snet.net
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| Service Times and Candle Lighting |
Shabbat Services (Main Sanctuary)
Morning services begin at 9:00 a.m.
Evening services begin at 7:00 p.m.
Daily Minyan (Chapel)
Morning services (Monday-Friday) begin at 7:10 a.m.
Evening services begin at 5:45 p.m. (Monday through Thursday), 6:00 p.m. (Friday)
On Rosh Hodesh services begin at 7:00 a.m.
On Federal holidays morning services begin at 8:00 a.m.
Shabbat Candlelighting this week takes place at: 7:06 p.m. Friday evening.
See www.rodephsholom.com for other days, holidays and festivals and times. Be sure to check the web site for any changes to services or programs.
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Nitzavim Va-yelekh
Isaiah 61:10-63:9
Week 7
The grand finale has finally arrived and each of the ideas presented in the previous six weeks is referred to in one form or another in this morning's haftarah. Like a symphony one can hear the echoes of previous movements. Our people will be victorious, God's romises will be kept, Jerusalem will no longer be forsaken and God continues to remain faithful to his people.
This grand finale is structured so that it resonates or reintroduces the major themes of the Torah portion several times. Chapters 31-34 (parshat Va-yelekh) is concerned with two items, the succession of leadership and the creation of the Torah as a book. It reads like a symphony because it is composed of two literary strands. For example, read chapter 31:1-8 and then 32:48-52 and then 34: 1-12. Each of these three passages is concerned with the question of succession of leadership. If you read chapters 31:9-32:27 you will note a similar literary style only this one focuses on the establishment of the Torah as a book.
How appropriate because Wednesday evening is the start of Rosh HaShana. For the past seven weeks we have been lead on a journey designed to help us look seriously at ourselves in preparation for a time of cleansing as well as one of rejoicing.
It just might be that the haftarah parellels this mornings Torah reading(s) because Nitzavim is a grandeur finale. We stand together, all of us and prepare to enter into the covenant once again. Just as a couple at times needs to reaffirm their commitment to one another so do God and the people of Israel. And so, after a long struggle in the haftarot where God and our ancestors wrestle with their relationship and finally work it out, we too are asked to learn to do same thing, to re-affirm our commitments just as our ancestors did in the Torah and haftarot.
This week's Haftarah commentary was written by Rabbi Charles Simon, Executive Director of the FJMC and author of "Building A Successful Volunteer Culture: Finding Meaning in Service in the Jewish" Jewish Lights Publishing.
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| September 4, 2010 |
Vol. 1. Issue 36 |
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|
What's Going On...
Congregation Rodeph Sholom
"Golden Apple"
Steuben Glass. Steuben Design Team.
ca. 2009. Height 4". Value: $2,900.
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| Shabbat Shalom! |
Steuben Glass 18 karat gold leaf and stem is an update of Steuben's classic apple. This iconic piece of art glass was first designed by Angus McDougall in 1940. Elegant in its simplicity, McDougall's apple has remained one of Steuben's most versatile gifts since its introduction in 1940. The apple update was first made available in 2009.
Steuben Glass Works is an American art glass manufacturer, founded in the summer of 1903 by Fredrick C. Carder and Thomas G. Hawkes in Corning, New York. Hawkes was the owner of the largest cut glass firm then operating in Corning.
Carder produced blanks for Hawkes and also began producing cut glass himself. Carder's great love was colored glass and had been instrumental in the reintroduction of colored glass while at Stevens and Williams. When Steuben's success at producing blanks for Hawkes became assured, Carder began to experiment with colored glass and continued experiments that were started in England. He soon perfected Gold Aurene which was similar to iridescent art glass that was being produced by Tiffany and others. Gold Aurene was followed by a wide range of colored art glass that eventually was produced in more than 7,000 shapes and 140 colors.
Steuben Glass Works continued to produce glass of all sorts until World War I. At that time war time restrictions made it impossible for Steuben to acquire the materials needed to continue manufacture. The company was subsequently sold to Corning Glass Works and became the Steuben Division. Carder continued as Division manager without any real change in the company's operation except that he now had reporting responsibilities to Corning Glass Works' management. Corning's management tried, mostly unsuccessfully, to limit the articles that Steuben made to only the most popular. Production continued until about 1932.
In 1932 there was a major change in Steuben management. The nationwide depression had limited the sale of Steuben and there was also a lessening of public interest in colored glass. In February 1932, John MacKay was appointed to Carder's position and Carder became Art Director, Corning Glass Works. Steuben then produced primarily colorless art glass whose production continues to this day. Steuben still produced colored art glass mostly to fill special orders; a few new colors were added after Carder lost control of the company. The last known sale for colored art glass by Steuben was in 1943.
Corning Glass Works appointed Arthur Houghton, Jr. as President in 1933, and under his leadership Steuben changed artistic direction toward more modern forms. Using a newly formulated glass developed by Corning (referred to as 10M) which had a very high refraction index, Steuben designers developed beautiful designs. In July 2008, Steuben was sold by Corning Incorporated for an undisclosed price to the Schottenstein Stores Corp. and continues producing the highest quality glass art for decorative and utilitarian use.
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| I Just Thought You'd Like To Know... |
I would like to extend a personal wish from Annie, Emily and myself to you and your family for a healthy and peaceful New Year 5771. I hope you enjoyed reading about the Steuben Glass Works. May you find only sweetness during this High Holy Day season and throughout the coming year.
All of the preparations for the High Holy Days are nearly complete and we here in the synagogue are looking forward to the holidays being a time of bustling activity and meaningful prayer for our congregants and visitors.
We have undertaken a Parking Lot Beautification Project this past week. While it might not necessarily be the "sexiest" of projects a synagogue can undertake, it is an extremely important one. With a building and property the size of Rodeph Sholom we have both a responsibility and obligation to maintain it, not just for our members, but for visitors to the synagogue, potential members, and the community at large. You will see that the median's that had become overgrown and filled with dead plantings have been removed. They have been cleaned and mulched to give our property a healthy look and feel. All of this work has been done at no additional expense to the congregation. I want to repeat this because it is very important--none of the work being done to the parking area of the synagogue has been done at the expense of the congregation. Each of the areas that have been "renovated" has been paid for through a generous contribution by one of our members and clergy. You will see before and after pictures in the next bulletin, along with a list of contributors. For any member who would like to contribute to continuing the beautification of the property please email or call me and I'll be happy to let you know what is next on the list of improvements. Together we will continue our ongoing revitalization of our property and begin to outline plans for the inside of our building.
I am also extremely pleased to let you know that I have been receiving calls fairly regularly from prospective members, giving in-depth tours of our facilities, and we have been fortunate to add a few new families with young children to our congregation. Additionally, we have added some Associate members and there is a level of energy I am seeing that is much greater than any since I began in this position nearly a year ago.
Through the hard work of our leadership and volunteers we have made significant strides in right-sizing Rodeph Sholom's staff and programs and services to best service our membership and we'll continue to do what is necessary and important to ensure we are fiscally sound while not sacrificing what we have all come to expect from Rodeph Sholom over our long and storied history.
Don't forget to let me know how we're doing. I encourage you each and every week to visit www.rodephsholom.com for the most up-to-date program and service information. And remember most of all, if I can be of help just give me a call, send me an email or drop by the office to visit, I'd love to see you! Thank you and Shabbat Shalom.
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|
|
| OUR MISSION |
Congregation Rodeph Sholom is dedicated to two guiding principles:
(i) To serve as a vibrant center for the practice and teaching of Conservative Judaism, and
(ii) create a spiritual and social atmosphere in which congregants feel part of a large synagogue family.
|
|
|
| Upcoming Programs |
The synagogue family extends a Mazal Tov to Syrene and Bradd Robbins on the Bar Mitzvah of their son, Jacob this Shabbat, Saturday, September 4.
Haley Stein, daughter of Lisa and Seth Stein will become a Bat Mitzvah, this Monday, September 6. The synagogue family wishes the Steins a Mazal Tov on their simcha.
High Holy Day Tickets!
Ticekts may still be purchased by calling or stopping in the synagogue office. Please remember that you, your guests, and all visitors will need to have tickets to enter the Sanctuary during High Holy Day services. Professional security and off-duty Bridgeport Police will ensure that those with tickets are allowed into the building. Anyone without a ticket will be required to provide their name, address and a photo I.D. to the security or officer before being allowed inside.
Cemetery Visits--Important Reminder!
Rabbi Stein and Cantor Green will be conducting the short, annual "Kever Avot" memorial ceremony at both the new and old cemeteries this Sunday at 9:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. respectively. Kever Avot is the tradition of visiting the graves of our lost loved ones before the High Holy Days, as a way of setting the mood by reconnecting with our past, reviewing and appreciating the source of our values and our spirit of Judaism, and to ask forgiveness of the souls of our loved ones. It is one of the simplest and most meaningful ways of performing "Kibbud Av v'Eim" - honoring our mother and our father; honoring our fellow Jews. We will need a minyan at both cemeteries to say Kaddish. Usually some extra help at the old cemetery is needed and is greatly appreciated.
Looking for a gift for the High Holy Days?
Stop in and visit our gift shop in the synagogue, or our online Judaica shop at www.rodephsholom.judaicabeautiful.com. You're find beautiful and unique handcrafted items from Israel, as well as noted American and International artists. There is something for everyone and you'll be supporting your shul at the same time!
"SHIR DELIGHT" FAMILY FRIDAY SERVICE AND DELI DINNER
Join us Friday, September 3 from 6:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m. for a chill, casual, family friendly Friday night service followed by our Shabbat deli dinner. Start the new school year with friends and family in a relaxed setting filled with songs, stories and the magic of Kabbalat Shabbat. Cost: Adults $12.00, Children 12 and under $9.00.
YOM KIPPUR "REFRESHER" COURSE
A "Refresher" course taught by Arnie Rotenberg and Cantor Green, Sunday, September 12 from 10:45 a.m.-11:30 a.m. Open to all at no charge.
LULAV AND ETROG
RS CABARET WITH JULIE GOLD
Singer-Songwriter Julie Gold, most renowned for "From A Distance" made famous by Bette Middler, will entertain in an evening of cabaret, Saturday, October 9 at 8:00 p.m. More information and ticket prices to follow.
TALMUD TORAH
PRE-KINDERGARTEN HEBREW SCHOOL-TOTS FOR TORAH
It is never too early to introduce young children to Jewish Education; specifically, holidays and customs, Mitzvot, Bible stories, Tzedakah, community, etc. Sunday mornings from 10:00 a.m.-12:30 p.m. here at Rodeph Sholom is the place to be for pre-kindergarten students beginning this fall. Children will also work on letter recognition, and on learning songs and prayers through rote. Children will learn through engaging means including: art, drama, music, cooking, dancing-everything that makes learning fun! We know that children who enjoy our pre- K program will look forward to becoming students at our Hebrew School and furthering their Jewish Education! We plan to learn by having fun! For more information contact Arnie Rotenberg, arnierotenberg@yahoo.com.
PARTNERS IN TEACHING
Got Three Hours? We need You! Our Hebrew School is looking for volunteers to assist our regular staff to teach about different aspects of Israel including its history and modern issues. Working with a teacher, you will be informed about the exciting things going on in Israel today, as well as pedagogic methods that will be beneficial in the classroom. Bring a new dynamic to our students, and also become part of a vibrant group of educated voices embracing and supporting Israel. Call or email Arnie Rotenberg, arnierotenberg@yahoo.com; to join this new, vibrant group.
ZEFF EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER
SCRIP FOR SALE!
The Z.E.C.C. now has more scrip available to purchase in denominations of $25.00 and $50.00. If you would like to purchase the scrip for Stop & Shop or Shoprite, please contact Liz Englander, early childhood director, lenglander@snet.net, or Joan Frankel, jfrankel@snet.net in the main office.
ZECC MITZVAH PROJECT
The early childhood will be collecting used glasses and frames to donate to Dr. Gene Gold. They will be donated to the Lions Club for those in need. Please help out and drop your used glasses and frames in the box in front of the preschool, or leave them in the office for Liz Englander,
lenglander@snet.net for more information.
HAZAK
SUKKOT LUNCHEON
Hazak welcomes you back on Tuesday, September 28 at 1:00 p.m. to celebrate Sukkot at a luncheon. Join your friends and bring new Hazak friends. Men and women are welcome. Cost is $10.00 per perosn. For resefvations, please call the synagogue office at 203-334-0159 by September 20. For more information please call Edith Winick at 203-384-1867.
SOCIAL ACTION
MIZVAH CLOWNS
Our newest Chavurah begins, Sunday, October 10 from 11:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. with the first three hours at Rodeph Sholom and the final two hours at the Jewish Home for the Elderly. This Chavurah is geared for teens and adults to get involved in the mitzvah of Bikkur Cholim (visiting the sick), enabling you to learn how to interact with senior citizens, hospitalized patients and children with special needs. The program will include a training session during which each participant will receive a clown kit, balloons and balloon pum that will be yours to keep. After learning how to apply clown make-up, create balloon animals and undergoing role play exercises to better prepare you for your friendly visit, Mitzvah Clowns with visit the Jewish Home for the Elderly. Cost is $36.00 per person for materials, and you should plan on bringing your own colorful mis-matched clothes.
CONNECTICUT HOSPICE VOLUNTEER
If you or someone you know is looking for an opportunity to serve others in the community we would like to hear from you. Patients and families are in need of care and support, and as a Connecticut Hospice Volunteer, you can fill some hours during the day or evening, weekends too by assisting in an administrative capacity or offering direct care as a friendly visitor, provide pastoral or bereavement care, or help in the arts or meet transportation needs. For more information please contact Pat Corradino, Director of Volunteer Services, 1-800-8Hospice, ext. 510. You can also email pnowak@hospice.com.
FLEECE BLANKETS
The Social Action Committee is requesting all those who are making fleece blankets to finish them up and return them to the stage in Friend Hall in the next few weeks so that they may be given to Brady's Smile. This group brings blankets to children in ICU units in many hospitals. The fleece pieces are in a box behind the curtain on the stage. There are directions attached to each, but if you need help just contact Ellen Bedford, Karen Rainville or Shelley Kreiger. Please sign your name on the sheet when you take the blankets so we know who has them.
BAR/BAT MITZVAH
A Bar/Bat Mitzvah is a peak experience in our Jewish lives worthy of attention and celebration. In the midst of all the excitement, a mitzvah project redirects some of our resources (our money, our time, our energy) toward social justice. It reminds us that the celebration of the Bat/Bar mitzvah student amid centerpieces, flowers and balloons is not only a celebration of age and accomplishment but also a celebration of his/her capacity to heal the world. At Rodeph Sholom we not only teach our B'nai Mitzvah how to read from the Torah, but also the importance of mitzvah -- performing acts of kindness--of being Torah.
UPCOMING BAR AND BAT MITZVAH'S
Saturday, September 4: Jacob Robbins
Monday, September 6: Haley Stein
COMMUNITY NEWS
USCJ'S PROJECT RECONNECT
"Reflections by the Pond:" A Prelude to the Days of Awe. Saturday, September 4, 7:30 p.m.
Allegro Pianos, 1068 Long Ridge Road, Stamford. Presented by Temple Sinai Stamford
Featuring violinist Tali Kravitz, pianist Alex Ruvenshteyn, and "Stories from the Storm," lessons of resilience told by Temple Sinai congregants. For information and to RSVP call 203-322-1649.
BINNIE KLEIN
Binnie Klein at "New Authors Roundtable" Wednesday, September 15, 7:00 p.m. Borders, 1499 Post Road, Fairfield.
When Binnie Klein took up boxing in her mid-50s, the reaction from friends and acquaintances was always the same: "You?" Why, after all, would a middle-aged Jewish psychotherapist with no previous history of athletics take up boxing? In her book, Blows to the Head: How Boxing Changed My Mind, Klein offers a provocative tale of an unlikely contender whose unexpected fascination with boxing takes her beyond the ring and leads her back to her roots and to a surprising chapter of the Jewish immigrant experience.
SMILERS" WANTED AT JHE
Volunteers needed to smile with the residents of The Jewish Home for the Elderly in Fairfield as you assist residents in wheelchairs from their rooms to activities, the Dining Room, physical therapy appointments in the Gym, and other areas in the Home; visit residents and perhaps play a game of cards or Scrabble, enjoy a cup of coffee or make an ice cream sundae in the Home's Corner Cafe; surf the web, send email, and watch YouTube in the Residents' Library & Computer Lab; entertain with your guitar, clarinet, violin or on one of the Home's pianos; read to the visually impaired; assist in recreation activities; share your skills and talents with the people who built our community; bring the Book Cart around and give out reading material; serve as a Sales Associate in the Gift Shop.
Volunteers at The Jewish Home make their own schedules. Adults and teens are invited to contact Shelley Berman, Community Relations Coordinator, at (203) 365-6495 or sberman@jhe.org for more info. Individuals preparing for Bar and Bat Mitzvah, and others under 14 years old, are encouraged to become volunteers with one of their parents.
JEWISH FAIRFIELD COUNTY COMMUNITY NEWSLETTER
A project of the Connecticut Jewish Ledger, this weekly email highlights news, events, and organizations of interest throughout Fairfield County. You can view the variety of activities going on in our county and receive this informative Fairfield County e-newsletter by visiting www.jewishledger.com.
USCJ NEWS
CONSERVATIVE/MASORI JEWISH LEADERS WELCOME RESUMPTION OF PEACE TALKS
Leaders of Conservative/Masorti Jewish organizations today welcomed the announcement of resumption of direct peace talks between the Government of Israel and the Palestinian Authority. The following statement was released on behalf of the United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism, Schechter Institute of Jewish Studies, Masorti Israel Foundation, Federation of Jewish Men's Clubs, Jewish Theological Seminary, Cantors Assembly, North American Association of Synagogue Executives, Ziegler School of Rabbinic Studies, Women's League for Conservative Judaism, Jewish Educators Assembly, and Solomon Schechter Day School Association.
"The Conservative/Masorti Jewish community strongly welcomes the recent announcement that direct peace talks will resume this fall between the Government of Israel and the Palestinian Authority for the first time since 2008. We applaud President Obama and the administration for their leadership on this matter, and we thank Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Special Envoy George Mitchell for their dedicated efforts in securing peace and security in the Middle East.
"As peace talks resume, we urge all parties to demonstrate the leadership, courage and understanding necessary to reach a viable and permanent solution to the Israeli/Palestinian conflict.
We look forward to next month, when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President of the Palestinian Authority Mahmoud Abbas will sit down together, guided by U.S. mediation, to restart peace talks, and we thank Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak and Jordan's King Abdullah II for agreeing to participate. We are hopeful that these talks will lay the groundwork for agreements that will ultimately bring peace and reconciliation in the Middle East. The future of the region - and of Israel - depends on it."
SUPPORT THE TROOPS!
Michael and Carol Weinshel and Susan Spivack continue to support troops deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan. Since 2005, they have adopted over 6,000 troops and now are adopting the soldiers of the 82nd Airborne who are being deployed to Afghanistan as part of Operation Enduring Freedom. Besides the high cost of postage to ship their packages, various items are needed and wanted by our soldiers need. Please contact the office for the list and we encourage you to share it with your friends and family. You may drop items off at Rodeph Sholom or contact Carol Weinshel at 203-372-6004 or at mica3@sbcglobal.net to make other arrangements. On behalf of all those who serve our nation, thank you for your support.
B'shalom,
Mark Block
Executive Director
mblock@snet.net
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| Service Times and Candle Lighting |
Shabbat Services (Main Sanctuary)
Morning services begin at 9:00 a.m.
Evening services begin at 7:00 p.m.
Daily Minyan (Chapel)
Morning services (Monday-Friday) begin at 7:10 a.m.
Evening services begin at 5:45 p.m. (Monday through Thursday), 6:00 p.m. (Friday)
On Rosh Hodesh services begin at 7:00 a.m.
On Federal holidays morning services begin at 8:00 a.m.
Shabbat Candlelighting this week takes place at: 7:06 p.m. Friday evening.
See www.rodephsholom.com for other days, holidays and festivals and times. Be sure to check the web site for any changes to services or programs.
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Nitzavim Va-yelekh
Isaiah 61:10-63:9
Week 7
The grand finale has finally arrived and each of the ideas presented in the previous six weeks is referred to in one form or another in this morning's haftarah. Like a symphony one can hear the echoes of previous movements. Our people will be victorious, God's romises will be kept, Jerusalem will no longer be forsaken and God continues to remain faithful to his people.
This grand finale is structured so that it resonates or reintroduces the major themes of the Torah portion several times. Chapters 31-34 (parshat Va-yelekh) is concerned with two items, the succession of leadership and the creation of the Torah as a book. It reads like a symphony because it is composed of two literary strands. For example, read chapter 31:1-8 and then 32:48-52 and then 34: 1-12. Each of these three passages is concerned with the question of succession of leadership. If you read chapters 31:9-32:27 you will note a similar literary style only this one focuses on the establishment of the Torah as a book.
How appropriate because Wednesday evening is the start of Rosh HaShana. For the past seven weeks we have been lead on a journey designed to help us look seriously at ourselves in preparation for a time of cleansing as well as one of rejoicing.
It just might be that the haftarah parellels this mornings Torah reading(s) because Nitzavim is a grandeur finale. We stand together, all of us and prepare to enter into the covenant once again. Just as a couple at times needs to reaffirm their commitment to one another so do God and the people of Israel. And so, after a long struggle in the haftarot where God and our ancestors wrestle with their relationship and finally work it out, we too are asked to learn to do same thing, to re-affirm our commitments just as our ancestors did in the Torah and haftarot.
This week's Haftarah commentary was written by Rabbi Charles Simon, Executive Director of the FJMC and author of "Building A Successful Volunteer Culture: Finding Meaning in Service in the Jewish" Jewish Lights Publishing.
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This Week
