From the Desk of Rob Kovach

An article appeared in yesterday's Daily Gazette discussing whether people should worry about traveling to Israel now, given the Palestinian calls for violence in the face of President Trump's declarations this week.

I applaud Rabbi Matt Cutler's response that he would go tomorrow.

I have written extensively about my own trips to Israel and how safe I feel there relative to other places. Safety has two components: risk and preparation. Our world has no shortage of safety risks: natural disasters, gun violence, terrorism, hatred, etc. We also have law enforcement, intelligence agencies, security experts, meteorologists, etc., all preparing to keep us safe. I continue to believe that Israel is the best (unfortunately by necessity) at continuously improving its ability to keeps its citizens and guests safe. 

Parentally speaking, this has been a challenging week for me. 

My oldest daughter lives in LA. While not in the direct path of the raging fires, she is close enough to them that she smells the burnt ember in the unfiltered air in her office. She is not in imminent danger, but the situation is certainly disconcerting. 

My second daughter is studying in Jerusalem. "Nuff said." 

Turns out that through all of this, my third daughter was in the most danger yesterday. Albany High School closed early because several fights broke out in the halls, spilling into the street, with injuries, arrests, and a street closure. 

Maybe I'll sleep better if she finishes the rest of high school in Jerusalem?

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Federation Events
Dr. Sharon Goldman
Joint Society Event
Sunday, December 10 at 7 PM
Congregation Agudat Achim

Challenges Facing American Zionists in 2017
with Dr. Sharon Goldman,
Deputy Director for AIPAC's Northeast Region

Dinner & Dessert Reception
$40pp after noon on Friday, December 8

Society events are great opportunities for networking, friendship, and inspiration!

Spouse or guest invited to attend-Society membership not required

All members will be recognized in a community honor roll to be published in January 2018.
 

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Straight from Eshkol...
The Green House Project
In Concert

Join us for two special concerts featuring visiting teen   musicians from our partnership region of Eshkol, Israel.

A medley of modern Hebrew, Chanukah, and other favorites!

Monday, December 18 at 7 PM
Temple Sinai, Saratoga Springs

Tuesday, December 19 at 6 PM
WMHT, Troy 

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Community Events
Kabbalt Shabbat & Dinner
Friday, December 8 at 6:30 PM
Congregation Ohav Shalom

Discussion topic: "Wither the First Amendment Separation of Church and State"
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Explanatory Services
Saturday, December 9 at 9 AM
Congregation Beth Abraham-Jacob

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New Member & Baby Shabbat
Saturday, December 9 at 9 AM
Congregation Ohav Shalom

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Homemade Latke Batter Sale
Sunday, December 10
8:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Congregation Gates of Heaven

Preorder by 12/4 to guarantee availability. 


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Lecture by Rabbi Dr. Chanan Markowitz
Sunday, December 10 at 10 AM
Congregation Beth Shalom

"DRAMATIC WAYS LIFE HAS CHANGED IN TODAY'S AMERICAN JEWISH COMMUNITIES?"

1: How have Jewish communities confronted and adapted to the challenges of our new age?
2: Issues which threaten Jewish survival; extremism, fanaticism and fundamentalism.
3: Can Jews survive without Judaism?
4: Can Jews survive without Jews?
5: What is the secret for Jewish survival?
6: Who is right, the optimists or the pessimists?

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Brotherhood Breakfast
Sunday, December 10 at 10 AM
Congregation Gates of Heaven

Guest Speakers,  Dr. David Hormick &  Dr. Roberta Miller

Providing home medical care to individuals who cannot travel to their physician's office due to chronic physical, emotional, or cognitive disabilities will be the topic of discussion. 


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Beth Emeth's K'Tanim ~ 
For Our Families with Little Ones
Sunday, December 10 at 10:30 AM
Congregation Beth Emeth

Join early childhood teacher, Patti Decowski as we create community for our families with newborns to pre-school age children. Programming includes the celebration of Torah and holidays through stories, music, crafts, schmooze and a nosh! It's NEVER TOO EARLY to join our group!! K'tanim meets for seven Sundays from October through April.  CLICK HERE  for the 2017-18 Dates. Our program is free and open to the community.  Questions?  Contact  Joni . (K'Tanim is generously underwritten by Ilene & Chip Stein & Family)

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Sunday Morning Yoga
Sunday, December 10 at 10:45 AM
Congregation Beth Emeth

Join instructors Denise Ikasalo & Victoria Rutledge for a soothing relaxing and strengthening yoga practice suitable for all levels.  Cost is $12/session. Pre-registration is preferred and babysitting can be arranged at The Parenting Center (RSVP no later than Wed before the session).
CLICK HERE for more information and complete schedule.   CLICK HERE to Register On-Line.


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Shaara Tfille's 
Chanukah Celebration
Sunday, December 10 at 11 AM
Congregation Shaara Tfille

Dairy brunch featuring Lots of LATKES

Lighting of the Menorah and Singing

Special Entertainment: Mr. Mike Magic, Family Entertainer


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Shomrei Habayit
Gala Brunch
Sunday, December 10 at 11 AM
Congregation Ohav Shalom

Join us as we honor our congregants, Libby Post & Lynn Dunning Vaughn and Jeff & Debbie as "guardians of the house"

$72 per person


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Son of Saul 
Film & Discussion
Sunday, December 10 at 7 PM
Temple Sinai

The Saratoga Jewish Community Arts presets: Son of Saul, a 2015 
Drama film/Thriller - 1h 57m

From IMDB: During World War II, a Jewish worker (Géza Röhrig) at the Auschwitz concentration camp tries to find a rabbi to give a child a proper burial. This film has won several awards, including the Cannes Grand Prix in 2015, and the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2016.

Film followed by discussion and dessert. Suggested donation is $5 per person, call 518-584-8730 opt. 2 to RSVP.

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Beth Emeth Religious School Book Fair
Sunday, December 3 to
Sunday, December 17
Congregation Beth Emeth

Books will be displayed in our lobby throughout the entire period.  During Religious School hours, volunteers will be manning the book fair.  During the day, stop into the Education Office to make purchases. CLICK HERE  for more information.

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Chanuka Concert & Dinner  
Monday, December 11, 4 PM to 6 PM
Albany JCC

The Albany Jewish Community Center's senior adult program is hosting a Klezmer concert -performed by members of the Kleiner Klezmer Orchestra:  David Bates on accordion and David Lambert on clarinet- precedes a kosher pot roast dinner.  This program is open to the community; dinner is supervised under the Vaad Hakashruth of the Capital District.  Cost is $13 per person and prepaid reservations are required in the Albany JCC's senior adult office before the program fills, 518-438-6651 x112, [email protected].

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Mah Jongg Tournament  
Tuesday, December 12 at 9 AM
Congregation Beth Emeth


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Hanukkah Dinner and Bingo
Tuesday, December 12 at 6 PM
Schenectady JCC

Menorah Lighting
Bingo game with Prizes
Pizza,  Latkes, Donuts
$8 per person,  $25 per family (immediate members, please)


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Chanukah Celebration
Tuesday, December 12 at 6 PM
Temple Israel of Catskill

Menorah Lighting & Meat Pot-Luck Dinner!

Everyone is invited!


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Lunch & Learn with 
Rabbi Norman Mendel
Wednesday, December 13 at 12 PM
Congregation Beth Emeth

Join Rabbi Norman Mendel for a weekly conversation.  This session's topic is:  "How did We Get Here?  A Look at Where We Stand."  In honor of the congregation's 180th anniversary, we will explore the rise of the reform movement from events in Europe and its coming to America.  We will look at the platforms that are the foundation of our present approach to living as reform Jews in a fast changing world.  We hope you can join Rabbi Mendel for these relaxed conversations.  You do to have to attend them all to enjoy them!  You bring your bagged lunch; we'll supply the coffee, tea and dessert! Our program is free and open to the community.  CLICK HERE  for complete Fall 2017 schedule. Questions? Contact  Deb Sokoler
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Chanukah Balloon Extravaganza
Wednesday, December 13 
5 PM to 7 PM
Boscov's - Clifton Park Center
Giant Balloon Menorah!  Mr. Twisty Show & Balloon creations.  Exciting Balloon Drop with lots of surprises!   Latke bar, donuts & drinks.   Crafts, Face Painting, Music.  Activities and Entertainment for children and adults.  No Charge!  RSVP 495-0772 [email protected]
Sponsors & Donations welcome
Bring along a toy for special needs children and AMC children's hospital.
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TCBY Ohav Nursery School Fundraiser
Thursday, December 14 
4 PM to 7 PM
TCBY, Western Avenue

4th Annual Frozen Yogurt Fundraiser for a new playground!
Socialize, eat and relax before dinner or after!

 
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Center Square Minyan
Chanukah Party
Thursday, December 14 at 6 PM
Trinity United Methodist Church
235 Lark St, Albany

Contact for more info:  [email protected]

 
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Chanukah Brisket Dinner 2017
Friday, December 15 at 5:45 PM
Congregation Beth Emeth

Services following dinner - featuring our intergenerational choir

Contact Andy Swartz ( [email protected] or 518-322-1858) with questions. Send your reservations in early - reservations limited to the first 300.

 
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Beth Shalom Friday Night Live Jazz and Klezmer Shabbat Chanukah Service
Friday, December 15 at 7 PM
Congregation Beth Shalom

Come join us for an evening of wonderful music by the Adirondack Klezmer Band. Rabbi Markowitz will lend his sensational voice to the music for what proves to be an exciting evening of praise and music for Chanukah.
 
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B'nai Sholom Shabbat Hanukkah Services
Friday, December 15 at 8 PM
B'nai Sholom Reform Congregation

Bring your own menorah to light
(one menorah per family please)
Everyone is also invited to share a potluck meal which will begin at 6:30 p.m. Please bring a dish to share, a
place setting and a beverage. RSVP (with your dish to
share) to Anne Hausgaard at (518) 242-7661 or you can
email Carol Smith at [email protected]

 
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Teen Minyan
Saturday, December 16 
at 10:30 AM
Congregation Ohav Shalom


 
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Junior Congregation
Saturday, December 16 
at 10:30 AM
Congregation Ohav Shalom


 
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Chanukah Extravaganza
Saturday, December 16 at 6 PM
Temple Israel

TI Members: $20.00
Non-Members: $25.00
Children (5 - 12): $12.00
Children 4 & under: FREE
NextDor Members: $18.00
Family Maximum: $50.00

Lighting the Menorah, Singing Songs, Chicken Dinner, and more!

Followed by a show featuring Hypnotist Marc Marshall

RSVP by December 11 to the main office
at 518-438-7858 or [email protected]

Additional activities for children will be provided.

 
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Chanukah Carnival
Saturday, December 16 at 7 PM
Congregation Beth Abraham-Jacob

Come join us for our second-annual Chanukah Carnival, on Saturday Night, December 16th! We will have a Musical Havdallah starting at 7 PM, followed by an exciting Carnival - including games, latkes, sufganiyot decorating, and more! Fun for all ages.

Admission is $5 per person, $20 max per family.

For more information, please contact Jeanette Goldstein at [email protected]

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Chanukah Party and 
Latke Festival
Sunday, December 17
2 PM to 4 PM
Beth Tephilah, Troy

Exotic latkes from around the world!

Arts & crafts for kids!

Free admission


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Chanukah Celebration
Sunday, December 17
3 PM to 5:30 PM
Congregation Beth Israel

Please join us for our Chanukah Celebration.  There will be musical entertainment, treasure hunt with prizes and Grecian cuisine.  Help light the candles.  The cost is $12.00 for adults and $6.00 for children.  Children and adults of all ages are welcome.  Please RSVP by Monday, December 11.

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Chanukah at the 
Chocolate Factory
Sunday, December 17 at 3:30 PM
Bethlehem Chabad

~ CRAZY CAR MENORAH PARADE FULL OF SURPRISES
~ CHOCOLATE GELT DROP
~ OOMPA LOOMPA LATKES
~ CREATE A 6 FT. CHOCOLATE MENORAH
~ HOT CHOCOLATE BAR
~ GOLDEN TICKET WINNERS
~ ACTIVITIES & ENTERTAINMENT FOR CHILDREN AND ADULTS

RSVP:


518-439-3310


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Grand Chanukah  Celebration
Sunday, December 17
4:30 PM to 6 PM
Colonie Center Court

HOT LATKES & DELICIOUS DOUGHNUTS
FACE PAINTING & KID'S CRAFT
GUESS THE GELT & DREIDEL
GRAND RAFFLE
GRAND MENORAH LIGHTING

FREE OF CHARGE

KINDLY RSVP or FOR INFO:
[email protected] l 518.368.7886


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Hanukkah Dinner
Sunday, December 17 at 5 PM
Congregation Gates of Heaven

Menorah Lighting and Dinner

Followed by music with Student Cantor Stefano


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Hadassah Holiday
Gift Wrapping
Monday, December 18 to
Sunday, December 24
Crossgates Mall

If you like to wrap gifts and get together with wonderful women, then Hadassah Holiday Gift Wrapping at Crossgates Mall is for you. We help many shoppers by beautifully wrapping their Christmas presents. They are so very happy, and so are we, as all proceeds go directly to Hadassah Hospital in Israel.  

It's a fun activity and all wrapping essentials are provided. 


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Chanukah Dinner
Monday, December 18 at 6 PM
Congregation Ohav Shalom

"Which Chanukah story do you tell? Finding meaning in the rich textual history of Judaism's winter holiday."

Guest speaker Rabbi Elliot Goldberg is a visiting scholar at the Mandel Center for Studies in Jewish Education at Brandeis University and a renowned Jewish education consultant.

Dairy Dinner 6PM - Presentation 6:45PM

RSVP required by 12/11/17
www.ohavshalom.com

Donations for the dinner are welcome

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Havurah Vatik 
December Event
Hanukkah Celebration
Tuesday, December 19 at 11 AM
Congregation Shaara Tfille

All Saratoga area Jewish seniors 55 plus are welcome!

Rabbi Kenneth Blatt, spiritual leader of Congregation Shaara Tfille in Saratoga Springs, will present a program on "Roosevelt and the Jews"Join local musicians of the Adirondack Klezmer Band for their third fabulous appearance to celebrate the Hannukah festival. Such a hit in 2015 and 2016! We are excited to welcome them back this year.

A festive catered lunch featuring LATKES follows the program
We need your RSVP by December 13th

Please call the Temple Sinai Havurah Vatik reservation line at 584-8730, ext. 4.

Keep Havurah Vatik alive and well - bring along a friend to enjoy this program!

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Baby Loves Chanukah
Tuesday, December 19 at 3 PM
Clifton Park Chabad

For mothers, babies & toddlers...
A gentle, musical introduction to Jewish songs and traditions, centered around a Chanukah party just for the littlest learners! Explore sensory Chanukah activities, and join in a fun and warm Chanukah sing a long with music, movement, and more. Chanukah grand finale- lighting the 8th candle!!
Invite others you know who may be interested!
RSVP 495-0779 


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Maimonides 
Chanukah Auction
Tuesday, December 19 
5 PM to 7 PM
Maimonides School

Last Night of Chanukah... FEELING AT THE END OF THE LINE?

Cheer up! For the last night of Chanukah, Maimonides will take you where no trains can travel, far beyond the tracks-to Hawaii! This year's Chanukah Dinner features a Hawaiian theme, a welcome taste of the tropics at the start of an Albany winter.

A-Z Prize Packages will be on display. Last-minute ticket purchases up to 15 minutes before 6:45pm drawings. Winners need not be present. Tickets can be purchased online, via mail, or in person.

The delicious Hawaiian-themed Chanukah Dinner will be prepared by Shmuel & Rivka Kochman. Cost is $7pp/$25 family.

Look for a special communal Menorah Lighting for the 8th and last night of Chanukah. A wonderful vibe and celebration, a chance to win prizes from A-Z, and the certainty of a huge Mitzvah supporting local Jewish education.

For more info see:  www.maimonidesschool.org/auction

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Lunch & Learn with 
Rabbi Norman Mendel
Wednesday, December 20 at 12 PM
Congregation Beth Emeth

Join Rabbi Norman Mendel for a weekly conversation.  This session's topic is:  "How did We Get Here?  A Look at Where We Stand."  In honor of the congregation's 180th anniversary, we will explore the rise of the reform movement from events in Europe and its coming to America.  We will look at the platforms that are the foundation of our present approach to living as reform Jews in a fast changing world.  We hope you can join Rabbi Mendel for these relaxed conversations.  You do to have to attend them all to enjoy them!  You bring your bagged lunch; we'll supply the coffee, tea and dessert! Our program is free and open to the community.  CLICK HERE  for complete Fall 2017 schedule. Questions? Contact  Deb Sokoler
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Can The Tribes of Israel Dwell Together? | Lecture
Wednesday, December 20 at 7:30 PM
Congregation Agudat Achim

The Adult Education Committee will offer the program "Can The Tribes of Israel Dwell Together?", which was this year's Gershom Cohen Lecture at the Jewish Theological Seminary. 

Discussion of the lecture will follow. Light refreshments will be served. We hope to see you there!
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Nosh N' Learn
Thursday, December 21 at 6 PM
Ambrosia Diner, Hudson

Post Chanukah, Pre-Christmas & New Year

Let's talk about it.
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Givah's Pizza and Movie Night
Saturday, December 23 at 6 PM
Temple Israel

Campers in grades 5-10:
Come see your Givah friends,
create your own pizza masterpiece
to dine on during a magical movie*!


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Annual December Adventure
with Hebrew Academy
Sunday, December 24
Great Escape Lodge

Join us for our annual adventure in Lake George at the Great Escape Lodge and Indoor Waterpark! This year, the perfect solution to your winter blues is also the perfect Chanukah present for you and your family. Please register below by December 1st.


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Chinese Dinner & A Movie
Monday, December 25 at 5 PM
Congregation Gates of Heaven

Dunkirk or The Boss Baby

Chinese food by the Jade Bistro, Scotia, NY


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Shabbat Candle Lighting, Music, Prayers & Intentions
Friday, December 29 at 6 PM
Temple Israel of Catskill

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The Pickle Recipe | Film
Schenectady Jewish Film Festival
Saturday, December 30 at 7:15 PM
Sunday, December 31 at 2:00 PM
Schenectady JCC

Brimming with shtick and slapstick! Rose's closely guarded pickle recipe has kept Irv's Deli a popular eatery for decades. And now her grandson, Joey, schemes to get the secret recipe and make a few much-needed bucks as his daughter's Bat Mitzvah approaches. Featuring a stellar ensemble of character actors: Lynn Cohen plays matriarch Rose and guardian of the family secret; Toronto comic Jon Dore is Joey; and hapless David Paymer is Uncle Morty, whose conniving plants the seed for Joey's plot.
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Beth Emeth's Shabbat Unplugged
Friday, January 5 at 5 PM
Congregation Beth Emeth

A NEW SCHEDULE!! Pre-Neg Nosh at 5:00 PM, followed by our service at 5:30 PM. Dinner at 6:30 PM will conclude the evening. The service is free and open to the community. Questions? Contact  Deb Sokoler
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Givah Winter Shabbat
Friday, January 5 at 5:30 PM
Temple Israel


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Great Rivalries of Jewish History: A Lecture by Rabbi Roy Feldman
Saturday, January 6 
Congregation Beth Abraham-Jacob

First shabbat of each month following 9 AM Services: 

January 6: How should Judaism respond to modernity? The Reform vs. The Orthodox

February 3: What should Judaism look like in the State of Israel? The Religious Zionists vs. The Haredim


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Jewish Pirates of the Caribbean 
Jew Chew Review
Saturday, January 6 at 12 PM
Temple Beth El, Troy

Matching Content with Cuisine

We eat Jamaican foods and talk about Caribbean Jews.

Topic includes the Jewish refugees from the Spain and Portugal as Privateers and as participants in Slave Trade between hemispheres.

Foods served at Jew Chew Review are often prepared and brought potluck style by members of the community. People interested in contributing a Meat or Parve Jamaican dish, please write Rabbi Kasman so that he can approve the kashrut.  [email protected]

Walk ins welcome, RSVPs appreciated.

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Albany Symphony Concert Tickets through 
Jeremy's Circle
Sunday, January 7
3 PM to 5 PM 
Troy Savings Bank Music Hall

David Alan Miller, Conductor, Richard O'Neill, Viola

Schumann: Overture, Scherzo and Finale
Christopher Theofanidis: Viola Concerto
Beethoven: Symphony No. 5

No other musical statement can match its raw power and bracing energy.  Beethoven's Fifth Symphony begins the New Year conducted by David Alan Miller.  Plus, the energetic Overture, Scherzo and Finale, Robert Schumann's symphonic experiment and a masterwork too-rarely encountered.  A new Viola Concerto by Christopher Theofanidis, played by today's master of the instrument Richard O'Neill.

Tickets $30 (half to Jeremy's Circle)


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Trivia with the TRIBE
Tuesday, January 9 at 7 PM
Congregation Beth Emeth

Join the TRIBE for a fun night of pub trivia at World of Beer at Crossgates Mall.  Put your random trivial knowledge to use.  Show off those smarts!  The TRIBE will be buying appetizers.  Feel free to purchase drinks and food as well.  Questions?  Contact  Brad Morris

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Lunch & Learn with Cantor Schechtman
Wednesday, January 10 at 12 PM
Congregation Beth Emeth

You bring your lunch; we'll supply tea/coffee and dessert.  In keeping with our 180th Anniversary theme of celebrating the history of Beth Emeth and the Reform Movement, this Lunch & Learn series will look at the evolution of Jewish music in and out of the synagogue from biblical times through the 21st century.   CLICK HERE  for January/February & March Lunch and Learn schedule.  This program is free and open to the public.  Questions?  Contact  Deb Sokoler

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Merengue/Swing Dance Lesson with Beth Emeth's Sisterhood
Thursday, January 11
7 PM to 9 PM
Congregation Beth Emeth

Our dance instructors will be Susan and Jerry Stenson.  Partners are welcome, but at all necessary.  This will be a fun night with a lot of hip movement!  Refreshments will be served.  Cost:  $5 for Sisterhood/Brotherhood members;  $7 for non-members.  Please RSVP by January 9th.  
CLICK HERE 
to register on line - this form will expire on Jan 9th.   
for more information.  Questions?  Contact Jane Sanders

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Genealogy Expo
Thursday, January 11 at 7 PM
Congregation Gates of Heaven


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Center Square Minyan
Ashkenazic Night
Friday, January 12 at 6 PM
Trinity United Methodist Church
235 Lark St, Albany

Contact for more info:  [email protected]

 
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Boca Shabbat
hosted by Beth Emeth
Saturday, January 20, 2018
Boca Renaissance Hotel

Celebrating 180th anniversary of Beth Emeth and 25th anniversary of the Boca Shabbat.
   
COCKTAILS AND DINNER: $54 (triple chai) per person
Chicken or Salmon

RSVP by January 5


Reservations:  www.bethemethalbany.org  
     
CONTACT: Susan @ Congregation Beth Emeth  518-436-9761 X-224  for details.
 
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Boca Raton Florida Brunch
hosted by Ohav Shalom
Sunday, January 21, 2018
Temple Beth Shalom
19140 Lyons Rd, Boca Raton

Brunch... $10 per person 

CONTACT Judy Phillips @   561-364-4741 or [email protected] for details/reservations

 Please send checks to:
 
     Judy Phillips
     8171 Florenza Drive
     Boynton Beach, Fl 33472
 
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West Coast Florida Brunch
hosted by Ohav Shalom
Monday, January 22, 2018

Contact Rabbi Dan at [email protected] for information
 
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Study Talmud
Mondays at
Congregation Ohav Shalom

Mondays at 11 AM October 16 through June 11

Mondays at 7 PM on: 11/27, 12/18, 1/29, 2/26, 3/26, 4/30

Join us for this text exploration and skill building class. No prior knowledge of Hebrew or Talmud necessary. Please bring a copy of the Schottenstein Babylonian Talmud, Tractate--Brakhot Volume 2. Led by Rabbi Ornstein.



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Temple Israel's 
Hadar Gift Shop
Chanukah Sale
November 27 - December 18 

During regular store hours.  Evenings by appointment, call the main office at 518-438-7858.


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Beginner & Intermediate Hebrew
Wednesdays
Congregation Shaaray Tefila, Glens Falls

Come learn Hebrew with us Wednesday evenings starting October 18. We will be a small group tailored to your learning needs. We'll have some noshes and conversation too, hopefully in Hebrew when we can. Shaaray Tefila Glens Falls | 518-792-4945.

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Reading Ruth: Study Group
Thursdays from 11 AM to 12 PM
Congregation Ohav Shalom

Dates for the year: 11/2, 11/9, 11/30, 12/7, 12/21, 1/4, 1/18, 2/8, 2/22, 3/22, 4/12, 4/26, 5/3, 5/17

Through discussion and study, guided by Rabbi Kieval, we will explore the many facets of the Book of Ruth. 

$25 for members | $35 for non-members



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The Bronfman Fellwoship begins with a FREE life-shaping summer in Israel.
Jewish Students in 11th grade APPLY TODAY!
All application materials due by January 4, 2018

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Help Change the World 
One Child at a Time!
Become a volunteer  reading coach in the Capital Region Jewish Coalition for Literacy ROAR program.

One hour a week can change a child's life for Kindergarten through third grade students in Albany, Schenectady and Troy Schools!

Interested? Contact Robyn Easton at Jewish Federation at 
518-783-7800 x 231 or [email protected].


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Klezmer Band Opportunity

Temple Israel of Albany klezmer band is looking for new members. If you are a proficient player and would like to join an established group, please be in touch with Cantor Marx at 518-438-7858 ext 116.

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PJ Library Ongoing Programs


Havdalah Program
Mondays at 9:15 AM
Cong. Gates of Heaven

Shabbat Play Group
Fridays at  9:15 AM
Temple Israel


PJ Our Way
Children and families love the PJ Library experience and have asked for  more. W e are delighted to invite you to sign up for  PJ Our Way , the newest chapter of PJ Library for kids ages 9-11! 


 
Albany JCC
Upcoming Senior Programs

The AJCC offers comprehensive senior adult program offers opportunities for older adults to socialize and stay physically active and mentally alert.


Schenectady JCC
Cultural & Senior Programs

The SJCC offers many services for senior adults in the community, to help keep their minds and bodies young. 




You shop. Amazon gives.

Amazon donates 0.5% of the price of your eligible AmazonSmile purchases to the United Jewish Federation of NENY.

Support Federation by starting your shopping at  smile.amazon.com/ch/22-2805163

 

JOB OPPORTUNITIES:

NEW! Director of Human Resources
Daughters of Sarah
Are you a motivated, enthusiastic and experienced Human Resources professional? We are currently seeking applicants for our full-time Director of Human Resources vacancy.  If selected, you will be responsible for the planning, developing and implementing of the Daughters of Sarah Senior Community's human resources policies and practices; to recommend policies and procedures that further the Senior Community's employee relations philosophy and to oversee their implementation; to serve as part of the Senior Community's senior management team for overall planning and management; to oversee the Community's benefits programs; to supervise and direct the other members of the HR team. JOB DESCRIPTION

NEW! Registered Nurse (RN) - Part-Time
New RNs are encouraged to apply! Are you a compassionate and enthusiastic RN seeking a rewarding career opportunity? If so, look no further! Whether you are an experienced RN or a new RN seeking your first nursing opportunity, please consider Daughters of Sarah Nursing Center! JOB DESCRIPTION

Teaching Positions, Maimonides
Full time Teaching position opening 1st and 2nd grades at Maimonides School a small, warm, welcoming school in Albany

Email resume to 
[email protected]

Part Time Development Officer,
Jewish Federation of the Berkshires
The Development Officer is responsible for planning and implementing the annual campaign and major gifts fundraising effort. This key position requires passion for our mission, excellent fundraising and organizational abilities, creativity, good humor and a goal-focused outlook. The ideal candidate will have exceptional interpersonal skills and be able to successfully cultivate and nurture donor relationships.  Flexible part-time hours. 3-5 years demonstrated fundraising success. Applicants should be detail-oriented, organized, self-motivated, a team player, and community minded; excellent writing and computer skills are a must.  Send cover letter and resume to Dara Kaufman, Executive Director, at [email protected].  


Pre-K Teacher 
The Herman and Libbie Michaelson Early Childhood Center is looking for a new Universal Pre-k teacher for our 4 year old classroom.  The right candidate will have a passion for working in an Early Childhood Classroom and either have a Bachelor's Degree for birth-2nd grade Early Childhood Education, or have the ability to obtain that degree over the next 5 years.  Must believe in the importance of play based, hands on learning opportunities.  Hourly wage- $13-$14 per hour depending upon experience and degree.  Hours- 8:30-4:00, Monday-Friday.  Benefits- Paid vacation time for all Jewish holidays and school breaks.  Follows the school district calendar.  Come join our experienced team of fun loving early childhood educators!
Please send a copy of your resume along with a cover letter that describes your teaching experience to Amie Bloom at

Part-Time Staff Accountant
Jewish Family Services of Northeastern NY, a non-profit organization, is seeking a part-time staff accountant, 15-20 hours per week. Primary duties will include accounting for Payables and Receivables and preparing monthly invoices. Additional GL accounting duties may be added over time. Accountant will work closely with office manager and will cross-train with front desk to provide support as needed. Position reports to Director of Finance.

Prior accounting experience (minimum 2 years), education and familiarity with Quick Books (desktop) or other similar accounting package required. Experience with Microsoft Excel and other MS Office programs desired. An Associate's of Bachelor's degree in Accounting preferred.

Ideal candidate will possess a professional attitude, a courteous manner and a desire to learn. Competitive compensation.

Please mail or fax your resume using the contact information below. you may also send a resume in the BODY of an email - we will not open attachments.

Jewish Family Services of NENY, 877 Madison Avenue, Albany, NY 12208 |  Phone: 518-482-8856 Fax: 518-489-5839

HACD Substitute Teaching
Hebrew Academy of the Capital District seeks substitute teachers for its multiage K-8 General Studies and Judaic Studies classes. Our school is located in the town of Colonie. Both full-day and part-time substitute positions are available. You would be placed on our sub list along with your availability and grade preference, and would be contacted by the main office when there is a need for a substitute. Experience is preferred. Please send your resume to [email protected]


Because there is no "them," only us,  take the pledge to #StandUp against racism, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia, xenophobia, homophobia, transphobia, misogyny, ableism, and all other forms of hate.

The pledge-- Today I pledge to stand up against hate and stand up for respect. 

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Petitioning Honorable President of the United States Donald J. Trump:

Bring Israel's Fallen Soldiers Hadar Goldin ob'm and Oron Shaul ob'm Home For Burial

Petition demanding that, as a condition to the United States' future discussions regarding Middle East peace, IDF soldiers Hadar Goldin ob'm and Oron Shaul ob'm (killed in action in 2014 Tsuk Eitan / Operation Protective Edge) must be returned so they can be laid to rest by their families and all Israel.

The petition and letter to the President can be accessed here.

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Submit a Jewish Community Event!
FedMail submissions are due by Thursdays at noon.
To submit an event, please email Sara Mastro.

Shabbat Shalom,
 
Rob Kovach
 
Fedmail is a weekly message from Federation President and CEO, Rob Kovach. Your feedback is always welcome at [email protected].
Volume 5 | Issue 40
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Shabbat Shalom
Albany candle lighting time: 
4:03 PM
 
This week's Torah Portion:
Parashat Vayeshev /פרשת וישב

In This Issue
Community Concierge









KB Goodkin | (518) 783-7800

Are you new to the Capital Region Jewish community, planning on moving here, or just looking for new ways to connect to Jewish life? KB Goodkin, Community Concierge, is here to help!

Volunteer Opportunities

Israel Needs You - NOW!

Live and work with Israelis and international volunteers on IDF logistics bases. Support Israel's soldiers and make a real difference.

866.514.1948

Project 5 
Volunteer Drivers
Bubbe needs a ride!

Do a mitzvah and help a senior - Get reimbursed for mileage - Drive as much or as little as you want

Call (518) 482-8856 to sign up

Contact Us
Jewish Federation of NENY
The Golub Center
184 Washington Avenue Ext
Albany, NY 12203-5306
(518) 783-7800