Jtnews | The Teen Voice Of Jewish Washington

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friday, september 25, 2009

The teens have taken over! Though the JTNews strives to cover the broad spectrum of our community, teenagers growing up Jewish don’t always have a voice. So we decided to change that. For this special edition of JTNews, all of the articles, poems, and even most of the photography have been created by teens from around Washington State. What you’ll find is that the Jewish community is filled with budding adults who are passionate, committed and excited about Judaism. Their enthusiasm is harnessed in these pages, and we’re excited to be able to introduce this sampling of the community to you. We have also included a resource guide, intended for both parents and teens, for teen programs available around the state. Enjoy! Joel Magalnick Editor, JTNews

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The new JFS Alternatives to Addiction Program offers a culturally sensitive response to the disease of addiction. Confidential help is just a phone call away. Contact Eve M. Ruff at (206) 861-8782 or e-mail [email protected]. You have questions, we have answers.

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■■Alexander Muss High School in Israel 3801 E Mercer Way • Mercer Island, WA 98040 Phone: 206-948-2030 or 206-232-7115, ext. 224 • E-mail: [email protected] www.amhsi.org Director of Admissions: Kathy Yeyni

The Alexander Muss High School in Israel is dedicated to engaging teens while they discover and embrace their connection to the history, culture and land of Israel through education, experiences, and understanding. AMHSI’s core program — designed for sophomores, juniors and seniors — is offered four times during the academic year and in the summer. AMSHI offers the opportunity to study history and travel while preparing for college. The two-month study abroad program follows a chronological curriculum of 4,000 years by actually traveling through history, using the land of Israel as a “living classroom.” In addition, AMHSI is fully accredited so students can continue with their high school subjects, such as math, science, and foreign language, and receive full credit from their high school. Furthermore, students are eligible to receive college credits through the AMHSI program! ■■BBYO — Evergreen Region

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teen resource guide

3801 E Mercer Way • Mercer Island, WA 98040 Phone: 206-232-7115, ext. 241 • E-mail: [email protected] www.bbyo.org Regional Director: Matt Lemchen

The Evergreen region of BBYO has approximately 350 members in multiple chapters throughout the Northwest. BBYO chapters are currently active in Vancouver, Seattle, Portland, Eugene, and Ashland, and each chapter includes volunteer adult advisors to provide guidance and support. An additional 250-300 Jewish 6th–12th grade teens participate in BBYO-sponsored programming each year. Jews in unaffiliated communities are encouraged to become members and to enjoy the benefits of a national Jewish youth program. These members are invited to attend all regional and international programs. Regional program participants, including those from Orthodox, Conservative, Reform and non-affiliated backgrounds, join together in religious observance, sports, social events, leadership development, cultural activities and community service projects. In the Seattle area, BBYO meetings are scheduled every Monday evening, from 7:30– 8:30 p.m., at the Stroum JCC on Mercer Island. Perhaps the most important lesson that one learns from BBYO is that “you get out of it what you put into it.” As in life, involvement in the development process, participation in the program, or taking on leadership roles is the best way to take advantage of BBYO. ■■Bat Mitzvah Club International Hosted by the Eastside Torah Center Phone: 425-957-7860 • E-mail: [email protected]

For young ladies ages 12–14, this is a two-year club for pre- and post-Bat Mitzvah. A group run for girls by girls, membership is $100 per year, eight or more meetings included. Local girls are invited to join thousands of girls their age worldwide in this club, where they can meet girls in other countries, become pen pals, and get to know other teens in their own backyard. ■■Community High School of Jewish Studies (a.k.a. Hebrew High) A Program of the Jewish Education Center Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle 2031 Third Ave. • Seattle, WA 98101 Phone: 206-774-2237 • E-mail: [email protected] www.jewishinseattle.org/hebrewhigh Principal: Amy Hilzman-Paquette

The Community High School of Jewish Studies, or Hebrew High, is a dynamic, elective-based program for teens in 9th-12th grade. Jewish teens who attend Hebrew High span the spectrum of Jewish beliefs, backgrounds and traditions. Many are affiliated with synagogues, youth groups and youth movements. Other teens are unaffiliated and find their connection within the Jewish community through the school. Their teachers also have varied backgrounds and knowledge and religious experiences. Students come to Hebrew High at the Stroum Jewish Community Center on Mercer Island on Wednesday nights from 7-9:15 p.m. during the academic year. Students travel from Olympia, Tacoma, Seattle, Bellevue, Everett and the Olympic Peninsula. ■■Eastside Jewish Boys Club

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Hosted by the Eastside Torah Center 1837 156th Ave. NE, top floor • Bellevue, WA 98007 Phone: 425-957-7860 • E-mail: [email protected] www.chabadbellevue.org

For young adults ages 12/13 through 17, pre- and post-Bar and Bat Mitzvah. The club meets once every three weeks for exciting extracurricular activities and some optional spiritual opportunities. Boys hang out with other Jewish teens their age with a chance to make new friends as they enjoy great sports, games, activities, workshops, field trips and more. At every meeting there is food, whether it’s tons of nosh, delicious lunch or tasty dinners. No one will go home hungry. Guaranteed! At every club meeting, teens have the chance to talk with the rabbi about anything that’s on their mind and any questions they have about Judaism. Membership is free. Sometimes they will meet at other cool locations with participants notified in advance. Each trip and activity is paid for separately. To join the club, or for more info, please e-mail the address above.

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Teen Resource Guide t Page 2 ■■J.Team — Jewish Youth Philanthropy Team A program of the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle 2031 Third Ave. • Seattle, WA 98121 Phone: 206-774-2230 • E-mail: [email protected] www.jewishinseattle.org/jteam Contact: Marla Goldberg, Teen Philanthropy Program Manager

The J.Team at the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle is comprised of 9th–12th graders who meet monthly during the school year. They explore Jewish values on philanthropic giving and visit an array of nonprofits that service the community, Israel and other countries around the world. Participants volunteer together on community service projects and work as a team to decide where to donate nearly $10,000 of charitable funds. Registration for the 2009-2010 school year is full, but the program is currently taking applications for 2010-2011. ■■Jewish Family Service Youth & Children’s Services 1601 16th Ave. • Seattle, WA 98122 Phone: 206-461-3240 • E-mail: [email protected] www.jfsseattle.org

Youth & Children’s Services offers a variety of programs to support the well-being of Jewish children. JFS provides counselors to assist teachers, students and their families at Seattle-area Jewish day schools. Workshops on life skills, self-esteem, Jewish identity and risk prevention are offered to youth in grades K–12. A Jewish Big Pals/Little Pals program matches children with adults for companionship and mentoring. Jewish children may receive scholarships to summer camp programs through the JFS Emergency Services department. JFS also offers year-round social and recreational programming for single parent families, including a popular all-day retreat. Project DVORA (Domestic Violence Outreach, Response & Advocacy) offers Kids’ Club, a 12-week workshop on parenting children who have witnessed domestic violence, with simultaneous classes for mothers and children. JFS’ services for youth and children span a number of program departments. Please ask the receptionist to direct you to the appropriate program director.

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JSU facilitates weekly club meetings in public schools that meet during the lunch hour or after school, providing food for the body and soul. Programs include speakers from a variety of Jewish organizations or discussions on timely topics of interest to the participants and interactive activities. Krispy Kreme doughnuts, kosher pizza, falafel, holiday foods or other snacks are always served. In addition to the weekly school club meetings, JSU sponsors activities outside of school and school hours including ski trips, Friday night gatherings (oneg Shabbat), the annual New York Experience trip and others. JSU also participates in Jewish community-wide events such as J Serve, Mitzvah Day, Israel Independence Day celebrations and Jewish community festivals. Each club is governed by elected officers who meet as the JSU Council of Officers to discuss program topics, outside activities and calendars. ■■National Conference of Synagogue Youth — NCSY 6222 Chatham Dr. S • Seattle, WA 98118 Phone: 206-295-5888 • E-mail: [email protected] www.seattlencsy.com Contacts: Jessica and Ari Hoffman

NCSY is the premier youth organization to connect, inspire, and empower high school-aged teens. It also includes Junior NCSY for 6th–8th graders. NCSY gives Jewish teens a place to interact with other Jewish teens in a fun, safe, kosher environment. Shabbatons draw over 200 teens from all over the Northwest. NCSY offers a range of events, from laser shows to go-carting to Chinese auction casino nights. Every Wednesday and Thursday, members get together to meet new people and have a good time. Goals are set on the continuity of the Jewish people, growth, togetherness, and a love of Israel. NCSY offers summer programs that travel all over the world, including Israel, Italy, Spain, and Eastern Europe. During the year, regional conventions take the teens to Canada, California, and New York. NCSY exists in cities throughout the Northwest, including Portland, Eugene, Seattle, Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Victoria, and in Alaska. NCSY is a multi-faceted Jewish youth group open to all Jewish youth, regardless of background and affiliation. ■■North American Federation of Temple Youth — NFTY-Northwest

■■Jewish Student Union 6222 Chatham Dr. S • Seattle, WA 98118 Phone: 206-295-5888 • E-mail: [email protected] or [email protected] www.jsu.org Contact: Chaya Estrin or Ari Hoffman

The mission of the Jewish Student Union is to connect Jewish public school students to something Jewish, and to give them a way to meet other Jewish teens in their high school. It’s that simple!

Union for Reform Judaism www.nfty.org/nw

Participation in NFTY’s Northwest Region allows high school students to forge an identity in consonance with the goals and values of Reform Judaism. Committed to Jewish literacy, spiritual exploration, social action, leadership development, Jewish community, and personal growth, NFTY-NW produces informed, committed young

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October 15, 7:30pm (at the home of Rabbi Jay & Janine Rosenbaum) October 25, 7:30pm (NYHS) November 8, 7:30pm (NYHS) Please RSVP to 206-232-5272

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friday, september 25, 2009

I am Abraham

Learning from the news

By Aaron Azose I am Abraham. I have left my land, the land I love, the land I have called home for so many years, in search of a place better than where I was. Ask not about the culture, for its memory alone singes holes through the morality of my conscience. The visions of child sacrifice into the belly of idols and the smells of burning flesh remind me why I left. And the gods. Their constant bickering and impolite behavior, not to mention their warring, confuses me. How can a person follow the laws of multiple deities unendingly disagreeing? Where is truth? Where is the underlying sense of justice to unwaveringly follow? Why should we on Earth follow beings who have enslaved us to perform endless chores and do not respect the essence of our lives? Beyond that, the materialism concerns me. Perhaps I am a minority. No, I am certain I’m a minority in my love of humanity and my intense distaste in the importance placed on property there. For instance, let me directly reference Hammurabi’s Code, which refers multiple times to the death penalty as a punishment for thievery. I, instead, would prefer a land where adultery leads to death and thievery only a slight punishment. That is why I have left. I am on a journey. I am Abraham. I have walked for days and days and days under the oppressive sun, whose rays (although not Godly) surpass the usual power of nature. I have crossed mountains and valleys alike only to part with my traveling companion who insisted on the better land. Settling in the Negev desert would concern many, but for me it is a blessing. There, if nowhere else, I can begin anew a society with morality at its head, where people approach me ready for change from the flaws of Babylonia and Syria. They, like I, will have faced the trauma of leaving home but also the thrill of a new land with new terrain and sights to see. The land here is not near as good as it was, and yet I am certain that with time, techniques will grow this place into a thriving wonderland. The farming prevents us from a healthy yield of crops, and our hills and valleys create climate discrepancies from east to west, from desert to coast. And the little rain we receive from the tears of heaven flow always down the mountains, leaving no potable liquid of life for myself. I must figure it out. I am on a journey.

By Mia Kaiser

Courtesy AMHSI

Alexander Muss high schooler Aaron Azose, left, was part of the spring 2009 contingent of Seattleites who studied in Israel.

I am Abraham. I am concerned that regarding our location relative to the opposing forces, this land may be unusually receptive to foreign invasion and attack. Between the three continents whose lands converge here, interests clash and war may be imminent. Trade, perhaps. But war, definitely. I shall put my mind to rest from those vengeful thoughts, focusing instead on the task of convincing others to join my mindset of human brilliance. I am convinced myself, but what about them? They act in their own self-interest, and a religion further away from the idols of sex, violence and rocks and trolls will presumably detract from its popularity when compared with the mass orgies of El and the bouncing breasts of Astarte. I have only just begun the mighty task. I am on a journey. I am Abraham. Not just the biblical figure, but I myself, in the flesh. A living, breathing human being with emotions and feelings, more immediate to all who see me. But don’t be confused. I am Abraham. I am on a journey. Unlike him, I did not come to the promised la nd of Ca naa n to escape t he flawed society in which I usually live. However, like him, I was drawn here by religion and by the freedom associated with my own beliefs. Since arriving,

I have just begun to convince myself, as he convinced others, of the beauty our Lord created and the underlying pulsing of humanit y which appears ever-present here. I have walked in the streets of cities paved with milk and honey. I have seen the brotherhood and sisterhood that exists. Without a doubt, I am Abraham. I am Abraham. I am. I fear, like he, that this may not be right; but without trying, who can understand the struggle? Since the establishment of Judaism, millennia of teenagers, especially, have fought hand-to-hand and heart-toheart against the big man above. Here, though, the fight becomes a war. Here, I cannot escape the signs that point me to Hashem. I am Abraham. I am on a journey. During this past summer, Aaron Azose spent seven weeks in Israel on the Alexander Muss High School in Israel program. Students on the program spent a few hours each day in class studying Jewish and Israeli history and even more hours becoming acquainted with the country and their new friends. Aaron wrote “I am Abraham” about two weeks into his summer Israel experience to help him better process what he was experiencing on his journey.

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QBSFOUT The new JFS Alternatives to Addiction Program offers a culturally sensitive response to the disease of addiction. Confidential help is just a phone call away. Contact Eve M. Ruff at (206) 861-8782 or e-mail [email protected].

I am a student in Kol HaNeshamah’s Chai School, a Tuesday night program for post-B’nai Mitzvah students. This is the Chai School’s first “official” year. Although we have traveled to San Francisco together, studied Jewish ethical dilemmas and the danger of euphemisms in our former confirmation class, this new program melds Jewish learning with modern relevance. We are using JTNews as part of our curriculum. The newspaper enables students to grapple with Jewish history and tradition in modern society. We were looking for a current events curriculum, and the JTNews was a natural fit. Our teacher, Michael Taylor Judd, came up with the idea over coffee with KHN’s education director, Tammy Kaiser. They were brainstorming curricula that included modern stories, current events, photographs and differing v iew points. Taylor-Judd suggested our local Jewish newspaper and Kaiser jumped at the idea, agreeing to write discussion questions and help facilitate student input such as letters to the editor, blogging and article submissions. Our first assignment was pulled from the pages of the Fri., Sept. 11, 2009 issue. Since the KHN Chai School seeks to foster critical thinking in its students, we are shown actual issues, problems and scenarios, and asked to wrestle with, solve, argue or seek solutions to them. The two articles we were asked to read and respond to were: “More than just Inspector 12” by Janis Siegel and “On top of the world” by Lauren Kramer. The first article teaches about looking for shatnez, a material that has a mixture of linen of wool. The second article is about a woman who traveled to the Canadian Arctic land of Nunavut and realizes she may have a hard time putting a kosher meal together. We were encouraged to find the common thread — Jewish law — and respond with our own thoughts, observations, advice and comments. We a nswered quest ions such as “When was the last time you thought about what the clothes in your closet were made from” and “Do you think keeping kosher limits a person in their travels or life experiences?” It is not enough to just respond. We are asked to respond, defend and respond again. We are asked to think deeply about the question and to put ourselves in the place of others different from us. The KHN Chai School looks forward to using JTNews to further our critical thought and our knowledge of modern Jewish life. Mia Kaiser is an 8th grader at Pathfinder K–8 in West Seattle and a member of the Kol HaNeshamah post-B’nai Mitzvah Chai School.

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friday, september 25, 2009

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n the teens take over

Each year, the Washington State Holocaust Education Resource Center holds the Jacob Friedman Holocaust writing and art contest for students in grades 5-12 in Washington State. This year’s contest asked students to think about a person affected by the Holocaust and to write that person a letter, or create a piece of art for that person expressing something the student has learned. For art for high school-aged students, Kate Benjamin, now a senior at The Northwest School in Seattle took second place. For more winning entries and a list of participating schools and teachers, and information on the panel of judges, visit www.wsherc.org.

Connecting teens to the Jewish community and Jewish experiences. The Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle helps build a Jewish future through: ~J-Serve, the National Day of Jewish Youth Service ~J.Team, the Jewish Youth Philanthropy Team ~Stipends for Israel Experiences ~Jewish Camp Scholarships ~Youth Mitzvah Fund ~Hebrew High

Find out more at www.JewishInSeattle.org, search: Teen Or contact Blair at 206 774-2251 or [email protected]

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friday, september 25, 2009

To grow up Jewish in 2009: Who I am By Danae Greenfield At the ripe old age of 14, I must admit that I haven’t ever given the topic of growing up Jewish much consideration. Being Jewish is just who I am — it’s my identity. Yes, I’m a teenager; yes I have many interests, from softball to performing arts to playing jazz piano and hanging out with my friends, in person as well as on Facebook. But at the core of my many interests lies my cultural and religious heritage as a Jew. My parents and extended family have shaped many of the experiences I have had during my younger years, and they continue to do so. Growing up in a home that values Jewish traditions and culture has greatly influenced my understanding of what it is to be a Jew. Becoming a Bat Mitzvah and the years of Hebrew school leading up to that milestone taught me not only about the religious aspects of Judaism, but the importance of self-discipline and perseverance. Standing on the bima on the day of my Bat Mitzvah, I realized my strong commitment to becoming a Jewish adult was what enabled me to succeed. It was not without sacrifice, though. Often, my regular teenage life and its activities had to be put on hold because of the responsibilities of my Bat Mitzvah preparation. I had to learn how to maintain my grades while juggling after-school activities and Bat Mitzvah training. Missing softball games or having to practice jazz piano into the late night hours occurred fairly frequently.

Courtesy Lauren Greenfield

A display of Danae Greenfield’s Network for Africa Bat Mitzvah project, which brought sport balls to orphans in Rwanda. On top of all of this was my commitment to a mitzvah project. I wanted to integrate my interest in sports to a charitable endeavor that benefited children less fortunate than me. This led me to the Network for Africa Project, for which I collected sports balls from my communit y to be delivered to Rwandan orphans. My au nt a nd cousi n t raveled to Rwanda to hand-deliver dozens of balls to the orphans. Many of the children were the heads of their household and

had to care for their younger siblings, though they themselves were only 11 or 12. All of the orphans had to come together as a community in order to survive. Throughout Jewish history, and in current times, Jews all over the world often need to unite and overcome obstacles — political, religious and social. It was so gratifying to see the smiles of the Rwandan children from photographs taken by my cousin because I realized they would now have a tempo-

rary escape from the harsh realities of their lives. I certainly can’t compare my easy and fortunate life to the Rwandan orphans’ experience, but when I go to the Performing Arts Summer Camp at the JCC, it is my escape from the activities and pressures of the hectic school year. The JCC provides an environment that offers theater experience, friendships and a sense of belonging to the Jewish and non-Jewish communities. For the past seven summers, the JCC has been like my second home. I have established some lifelong friendships while at the same time, during this past summer as a counselor-in-training, developing my leadership and mentoring skills. The JCC is welcoming of all ethnicities and religions — and encourages my acceptance of all people, Jewish and non-Jewish, alike. Being Jewish is more than just following rituals and traditions — it’s about understanding them, embracing them, and making them part of my everyday life. My teenage years are just beginning, and the choices I make during this time will be influenced by the values and traditions of my Jewish upbringing. Being part of a Jewish community, continuing to perform charitable acts, and establishing friendships with people from diverse backgrounds will define and nurture my Jewish identity into my adulthood. Danae Greenfield is a 9th grader at Newport High School in Bellevue.

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Congregation Ezra Bessaroth wishes all its members, friends and the entire jewish community a happy new year Tizku Leshanim rabot salomon cohen-scali, rabbi yogev nona, hazzan isaac azose, hazzan emeritus ruben f. owen, president raye behar, ladies auxiliary president

jtnews.net

friday, september 25, 2009

Discovering myself through Judaism By Mallory Mosner The past few years have been a relentless journey on my path to self-discovery. Through both adversity and complacency, I have achieved a great deal of selfawareness. Yet nothing has made so deep an impact on me as my trip to Israel. My new insight toward my Jewish heritage has given me an incredible sense of selfrealization — like a cartographer filling in blank spaces on a map, I finally feel like I know what I am: A Jew. I arrived at the Alexander Muss High School in Israel program expecting little more than creating new friendships. Little did I know I was in for a magical transformation, a total metamorphosis. Combining classroom learning with corresponding field trips, I was exposed to a method of integrated experiential learning that not only fascinated me, but allowed my history to come alive right before my eyes. I embarked on a multitude of different adventures, from the arduous climb at Masada, where I observed the most extraordinary sunrise I have ever seen, to wandering around Tsfat, allowing the spirituality of the Kabbalah to overpower me. I have learned of redemption and valiance from biblical characters such as Sampson, who vehemently fought the Philistines, and from modern heroes such as Dav id Ben-Gurion, w ithout whose passion and tenacity the Jewish homeland might not even exist today. The

holy locations and numerous heroes all instilled in me a sense of appreciation; these provided an outline for the previously ambiguous land that now comprises my Jewish identity. I waited somewhat reluctantly to begin my study of the Holocaust. My anxiety stemmed largely from the fact that I had already learned about this catastrophic event and wasn’t sure I had the strength to do so again. These feelings were countered immediately once we began our in-depth study of this period. Surrounded by other American Jews experiencing the same sensations as I did, I further comprehended the impact Israel had had on me. Engulfed by tears at Yad Vashem, the Holocaust Museum, I had an intriguing realization that no longer was there an issue of capacity; no longer would I feel indifference in the suffering of my people. Through my immersion in the Israeli culture, I had developed a palpable connection to the Jewish people that made my heart ache for the suffering my people endured. After these difficult Holocaustfilled days, we mitigated our shaken and vulnerable minds by spending a Shabbat in Bedouin tents in the beautiful Negev desert. I sat among my friends watching the sunset turn the sky brilliant shades of purple and red over the infinite sand dunes, and despite the discouraging and haunting events we had learned about earlier in the week, I felt God. The spiritual

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being within me that I had always sought emerged before me in that moment. Gazing later upon the dazzling starfilled night sky, I found that I had shaded in the outlines of this theoretical continent; I discovered with great pride how my senses of passion, resilience, and adaptability corresponded directly with those of my Jewish ancestors. I knew from that moment the pivotal role of Judaism in forming my identity. My search for absolute self-discovery will indubitably continue throughout the

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entirety of my life, but this rare opportunity I have been blessed with, to live in Israel, has provided me with a new outlook. The three aspects of Judaism, Torah (tradition), am (nation), and eretz (land), in just two months shaped my identity in ways that many search a lifetime to find. I am sure several contours will be added to my map, but, nevertheless, I discovered what was the enormous gap missing in my heart, and I know now who I am: With proud and undying love, I am a Jew. Mallory Mosner attended the Alexander Muss High School in Israel during the 2008-2009 school year and is now a freshman in college.

Rena Genauer

This past spring, during Purim, junior and senior girls at the Northwest Yeshiva High School decked out the school with window writing and other decorations. The young women decided upon a Hollywood theme, and even created a red carpet through the school complete with a star for each student. Ashley Cohen, then a junior at NYHS, shows off the banner put up at the front of the school.

Something’s SAT? r the P o f e r a ep now! g to pr Lookin rses forming nt ve Cou ing In E 1 t t e G FREE ober ay, Oct view.com d s r u h T tonre .prince ore. w w w Visit out m to find 6-548-1100. 0 ons? 2 Questi

October Herzl-ner Tamid October 14 USY lounge night Youth lounge, 6–6:50 p.m. BBYO October 16-18 Jewish education Conference Fall Business meetings Camp Solomon Schechter, Olympia nCSY October 16–18 lTS Herzl-ner Tamid October 23–25 USY Kinnus JFGS October 25 J.Team Kick-Off

December 6 Academy Building’s 100th Birthday Party, 10 a.m. – noon [email protected] 206-323-5750, ext. 206

november Herzl-ner Tamid november 2 USY lounge night Youth lounge, 6–6:50 p.m.

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nCSY november 6–8 Seattle Shabbaton

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Herzl-ner Tamid november 13 USY Shabbat Services & dinner event

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JFGS november 15 J. Team Session Herzl-ner Tamid november 18 HnT Youth lounge High School Hot Topics, 6-6:50 p.m. BBYO november 20-22 aiT/miT leadership Training institute mittleman JCC, Portland, Or

Community Food Drive Food Sort October 18 10:30 a.m–2:00 p.m Advance Registration Required [email protected]

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keep up with what’s happening regularly at

r 11 Decembe bration kkah Cele u n a H & r ne Latke Din 6 p.m. attle Ave. E., Se 1441 16th nCSY december 12 Casino night

february january SJCC audition for the spring production at SJCC Center Stage. Teens, tweens and kids of all ages are welcome. learn more at www.SJCC.org. Herzl-ner Tamid January 6 USY lounge night Youth lounge, 6–6:50 p.m.

Herzl-ner Tamid december 16 USY lounge night Youth lounge, 6–6:50 p.m. BBYO december 20-23 Jewish leadership Conference marriott airport Hotel Seatac Herzl-ner Tamid december 23–21 USY iC nCSY december 31–January 3 Winter regional Trip

Herzl-ner Tamid February 3 USY lounge night Youth lounge, 6–6:50 p.m. Herzl-ner Tamid February 7 USY SaTO event

JFGS January 6 Hebrew High Winter Class Begins Herzl-ner Tamid January 9 USY event Herzl-ner Tamid January 10 Kadima event Herzl-ner Tamid January 20 HnT Youth lounge High School Hot Topics, 6–6:50 p.m. JFGS January 24 J. Team Session

Herzl-ner Tamid december 13 USY Hanukkah Party JFGS december 13 J. Team Session

SJCC register for the outrageously fun SJCC Summer Camps for tweens and teens: Summer Stock Theater, director’s Cut moviemaking camp, Sports Camp, CiT program, and more.

JFGS February 7 YmF Session nCSY February 12–15 President’s Weekend retreat Herzl-ner Tamid February 17 HnT Youth lounge High School Hot Topics, 6–6:50 p.m. Herzl-ner Tamid February 20 Kadima Sleepover Herzl-ner Tamid February 21 USY Purim Carnival JFGS February 21 J. Team Session nCSY February 27 Purim event

January 24 Gala Dinner & Auction [email protected] 206-323-5750, ext. 206 Herzl-ner Tamid January 30 USY into the night

Juniors king hin start t T Prep! o t e m Ti SAT/AC egy Spring st and strat t u o b a e te ng practic ties by visiti E E R F i un Find m opport iew.co session rincetonRev 1100. www.P s? 206-548on Questi

February 27 nival & Me gillah Rea ding 5 p.m. 1441 16th Ave. E., Se attle

Purim Car

the many

here!

april march Herzl-ner Tamid march 3 HnT Youth lounge High School Hot Topics, 6–6:50 p.m. Herzl-ner Tamid march 5–6 USY Shabbaton Herzl-ner Tamid march 7 Kadima event nCSY march 7 nCSY 500 JFGS march 10 Hebrew High last day of Winter Session BBYO march 12–14 Frat/mBa Weekend Spring Business meetings Stroum JCC, mercer island Herzl-ner Tamid march 17 USY lounge night Youth lounge, 6–6:50 p.m. Herzl-ner Tamid march 19–21 USY Spring Kinnus

Herzl-ner Tamid april 9 USY Potential Spaghetti dinner Fundraiser for HnT Herzl-ner Tamid april 14 USY lounge night Youth lounge, 6–6:50 p.m. Herzl-ner Tamid april 18 Kadima event nCSY april 18 Basarfest Herzl-ner Tamid april 21 HnT Youth lounge High School Hot Topics, 6–6:50 p.m. BBYO april 25 J-Serve 2010 all Cities Herzl-ner Tamid april 25 USY SaTO event COmmUniTY-Wide april 25 J-Serve 2010 Herzl-ner Tamid april 30 USY event

JFGS march 21 J. Team Session JFGS march 24 Hebrew High – Spring Class Begins nCSY march 28 Car Wash nCSY march 30 Seder at the Hoffmans

May 2 ht & al Deli Nig .m. 8th Annu 0p wcase, 5:0 o h S y d e Com n, Seattle 520 E Unio

may Herzl-ner Tamid may 5 HnT Youth lounge High School Hot Topics, 6–6:50 p.m. Herzl-ner Tamid may 7 USY Shabbat Services and dinner event Herzl-ner Tamid may 12 USY lounge night Youth lounge, 6–6:50 p.m.

Herzl-ner Tamid may 16 Kadima event Herzl-ner Tamid may 16 USY israel event

nCSY may 18 Shavuot all-nighter Northwest Yeshiva High School

june JFGS June 2 Hebrew High last day of Spring Session

Herzl-ner Tamid may 23 USY elections JFGS may 23 J. Team Session Herzl-ner Tamid may 28–31 USY regional Convention nCSY may 28–31 end-of-the-Year Shabbaton

BBYO B’nai B’rith Youth Organization 206-232-7115, ext. 241 [email protected] Herzl-ner Tamid 206-232-8555 [email protected]

Herzl-ner Tamid June 6 USY elections

JFS Jewish Family Service 206-861-3155 [email protected]

JFGS June 6 J. Team Celebration

JFGS Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle 206-441-4553 www.jewishinseattle.org

JFGS June 9 Hebrew High Graduation

nCSY national Conference of Synagogue Youth 206-725-2456 www.seattlencsy.com

BBYO June 13–15 Chapter meetings end all Cities

BBYO may 14–16 election Conclave B’nai B’rith Camp lincoln City, Or

JFGS may 16 YmF Session

nCSY march 19–21 Vancouver Shabbaton

CHECK OU T teen oppo rtunities at JFGS

SHa Seattle Hebrew academy 206-323-5750 www.seattlehebrewacademy.org

cene: YO Teen S B B d n a C ngout SJC riching ha n e d n a e f dents. a fun, sa school stu le d id m r fo at the Now open land Mercer Is SJCC.

SJCC Stroum Jewish Community Center 206-232-7115 www.sjcc.org TdHS Temple de Hirsch Sinai 206-323-8486 [email protected] www.tdhs-nw.org Washington State Holocaust education resource Center 206-774-2201 [email protected]

Jacob Friedman Holocaust Writing and Art Contest Open to students in grades 5-12 in the Pacific Northwest. Contest theme available soon! Check www.wsherc.org or email [email protected]. Sponsored by the Washington State Holocaust Education Resource Center.

10 jtnews

n the teens take over

friday, september 25, 2009

Live and die N-F-T-Y By Navarre Moore Between the 3rd and 7th grades, my life consisted of watching TV, playing sports, and waking up on Sunday mornings to head to my synagogue to prepare myself for my upcoming Bar Mitzvah. But after May 7, 2005, I felt I had no more to learn. What was a regular part of my life had suddenly become insignificant. At my synagogue, Temple Beth Am in Seattle, after you become a Bar Mitzvah, you only come to Hebrew school on Tuesday nights. I was presented with the option of whether or not to go — I chose to continue because of the lone fact that it was mandatory in order to be a madrich for younger Sunday school classes. Much like the rest of us, I needed the money. My whole Jewish 8th grade year was fueled by social needs and requirements for work. Then, early in the fall of my freshman year, my friends Dylan and Aaron convinced me to attend this thing called NFTY. I had no idea what to expect. All I had heard was that it was really fun. When Fall Kallah rolled around, I greeted the kids in my Hebrew class at Camp Burton, confused about what lay ahead. I headed into the dining hall and sat with my clump of friends and turned around to listen to a group of individuals, the regional board of the National Federation of Temple Youth, addressing everyone. I knew no one in my cabin, but they included me like I had been coming for years. I had so much fun at this event I decided to come back for the next two Kallot. Fast forward to my junior year in high school. I’m still living in Kent (where it seems to be Jew-less). I’m still a Jew. I’m still going to NFTY events. In the spring of my freshman year, I had picked up a

liking for theater and decided to continue on with it the next year. The consequences? I had to miss NFTY Fall Kallah due to two performances falling on the same weekend. I was crushed, though I got over it quickly because our performance went swimmingly. With no performances in sight, I was able to sign up for the winter event, which was held at Temple De Hirsch Sinai in Seattle. We attended an amazing new experience for me: Friday night Rock Shabbat services. I loved it. Other than that lovely Shabbat, this event was different. During Saturday afternoon, we were encouraged to sit down with the regional board and listen to them talk about their positions, in case we wanted to run for board next year. Through the whole event, my friend Kyleigh kept telling me: “You should run! You should run!” Though I was skeptical, because I had never even been on my temple youth group’s board, I sat down with the membership vice president to learn more about the position. Near the end of lunch, Jonathan, a friend from my synagogue, walked up behind us. He was on the regional board as well, in a position called communications vice president. Since no one went to his table at lunch (everyone knew this position wrote down meeting minutes), I thought I would listen to him as he told me about his position. Instantly, I was hooked. It possessed the same friendliness of the membership position, but with bigger technological differences. Advertising? I’d love to. Minutes? I don’t mind. Helping to lead a region of Reform Jews as they explore their religion, much like those individuals I had so admired as a freshman? Couldn’t ask for anything better. After much badgering by Kyleigh to get me to run (she was a junior on regional

Teen Resource Guide t Page 3 Jews and North American youth leaders. The accessible, dynamic, year-round NFTY and NFTY-NW experiences reflect congregational-level opportunities, regional programming, multi-region kallot, North American events, camping, and national and international travel.

Navarre Moore board, and I knew she was going to run again), I finally decided to go for it. Once I had typed my letter of intent, and it was posted on the region’s Web site, all my fears of not being elected washed away — I was running unopposed! I was elected onto the regional board, along with six other friends, one of whom was Kyleigh. Although this was a high point in my life as both a leader and a Jew, it was minuscule compared to what was about to happen. Two months later, my board flew to the Union for Reform Judaism’s Kutz Camp, in Warwick, N.Y., for an event called Mechina, essentially a regional board training retreat. I met all sorts of people from around the U.S. that shared the same passion for NFTY I did. Toward the end of the four-day event, I started to feel a connection to the camp. I had had such an amazing time at Mechina that I wanted to stay for the 3-1/2 week summer session. But the deadline had passed, and I already had my flight home. There was nothing I could do. On the morning of our departure, NFTY’s programming vice president approached me and simply asked, “Did you have a good time?” I immediately responded with a yes. “I really want to stay, too,” I told him.

He invited me to stay, and I was on my way to the airport when word came through: I would be able to get a full scholarship for the summer. I just about lost control from happiness. I changed my flight and headed back to Kutz Camp. When I arrived at services, the looks on my friends’ faces were priceless. They instantly mobbed me with hugs. I knew I had come back for a reason: This place was special. Over the next several weeks, I learned how to be a better leader, things about Israel I’d never known, the differences and similarities between Judaism and Islam, and, interestingly some very dark aspects of Judaism that I will remember forever. I saw Josh Nelson and Dan Nichols live in concert — I actually played basketball with Dan Nichols, which I’ll never forget. I prayed how I wanted to pray, without being judged about how I do it. I loved the holiness that swept through the camp when Shabbat rolled around. I played softball games on Shabbat that made even mud memorable. But of all these fabulous things at camp, what sticks with me the most is the people — the campers, the avodah, everyone. They were so willing to open themselves up and share from their hearts with people they had known for but a week or so. I loved the ruach, the spirit that rushed into someone’s body when a guitar was strummed, and the care and the kindness people would show while visiting kids quarantined by swine flu, strep throat, and lice, respectively. My favorite Dan Nichols song is two words. Two words that describe this camp. Two words that describe NFTY: Kehilah kedosha, holy community. NFTY has shaped me into the proud Jew I am today. NFTY is my life. Gonna live and die N-F-T-Y. Navarre Moore is communications vice president for the Pacific Northwest Region of the National Federation of Temple Youth and a senior at Kentwood Senior High in Covington.

The international organization sponsors a number of programs, including the International USY Convention in late December, and the USY Israel Pilgrimage programs. USY emphasizes the importance of social action. The organization operates a tzedakah foundation called Tikkun Olam, and all weekend events include social awareness programming. ■■Young Judaea

■■Torah High 6222 Chatham Dr. S • Seattle, WA 98118 Phone: 206-295-5888 • E-mail: [email protected] www.torahhigh.org Contact: Ari Hoffman

National Office: 50 West 58th St. • New York, NY 10019 Phone: 212-303-8014 • E-mail: [email protected] www.youngjudaea.org Contact: Sandy Samuel

Torah High, a Jewish studies program run by the National Council of Synagogue Youth and based at the Bikur Holim-Machzikay Hadath and Sephardic Bikur Holim synagogues in Seattle’s Seward Park neighborhood, allows students to take classes that can count toward graduation from public or secular high schools. Torah High is accredited through the Northwest Association of Accredited Schools as a “supplemental” institution, meaning any course completed would be like taking classes from a local junior college or a foreign exchange program. Courses include “Jewish Philosophy,” “Culinary Arts” and “Rock Band Jew.0.” Krav Maga, the style of martial arts used by the Israeli army, is the program’s most popular course. Torah High is supported financially by NCSY and the Jewish Student Union, as well as a grant from the Samis Foundation. The cost to attend is $350 per student per semester. Students must be Jewish to participate in Torah High, but kids from all denominations are welcome. There is no required level of observance.

For 100 years, Young Judaea, the Zionist youth movement sponsored by Hadassah, has played a pivotal role in the development of Jewish identities for tens of thousands of American Jewish youth. Dedicated to instilling Jewish values, Jewish pride and a lifelong commitment to Israel, Young Judaea provides its enriching programs through experiential education while maintaining its commitment to political nonpartisanship and religious pluralism. Young Judaea has brought generations of young Jews from a rich variety of religious, cultural and political backgrounds together, underscoring the beauty, power and diversity of American Jewish life. Today, Young Judaea is the preeminent Zionist youth movement on the continent. Young Judaea is pluralistic in nature and therefore encompasses the range of Jewish affiliation. Events are kosher and observe Shabbat. The movement sponsors clubs, conventions, regional camps, a national camp for older teens, summer in Israel programs, and an award-winning 10-month bridge year course in Israel program.

■■United Synagogue Youth Pinwheel

■■Youth Mitzvah Fund

Pacific Northwest — Regional Office 2900 Peaceful Lane SW • Portland, OR 97239 Phone: 503-246-8077 • E-mail: [email protected] www.uscj.org/pacnw/usy Regional Youth Commission Chair: Ryan Berger Regional Director: Morey Schapira

United Synagogue Youth is the Conservative movement’s high school program. The Pacific Northwest Region’s USY program consists of 10 chapters in Washington, Oregon, British Columbia and Alberta. USY members join together for regional events five times a year for Shabbatons and kinnusim involving social programs and educational sessions.

A program of the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle 2031 Third Ave. • Seattle, WA 98121 Phone: 206-774-2230 • E-mail: [email protected] www.jewishinseattle.org/ymf Contact: Marla Goldberg, Teen Philanthropy Program Manager

Teens ages 12–14 are invited to set up a personalized Youth Mitzvah Fund at the Jewish Federation of Greater Seattle. With money donated into the fund by friends and family, teens can grant a portion of the funds each year to the charities of their choice, keeping enough in the fund to last throughout high school. Teens who have opened a Youth Mitzvah Fund are invited to attend three programs on giving, which include nonprofit visits, community service opportunities, and discussions on Jewish values of giving.

friday, september 25, 2009

jtnews 11

n the teens take over

Something indescribable, yet something so precious By Eliana Schauffler Without Judaism, I honestly don’t know where I’d be in life. Ever since I was a little girl I have always surrounded myself with Jewish friends, Jewish education, and the faith that made me who I am today. Sometimes I wonder if it’s bad that I’ve grown up sheltered from a world without Judaism, but I wouldn’t trade my upbringing for anything in the world. The quote “insiders can’t explain it, outsiders will never understand” completely describes the feeling I get when I’m surrounded by my people. It fills me with pride and I love living in the moment. It’s amazing how learning that someone is Jewish instantly connects you with them. It’s something so indescribable, yet so precious. Everywhere I go, the people I meet always tell me how they share this common bond with all Jews. The more I think about it, the more I realize how

powerful it is that faith can bring people so close together, regardless of degree of belief, race, age, or personality. I always find myself closer to Jewish people, even when I’m not the best of friends with them. This past summer I went to a BBYO summer camp called CLTC where kids from all around the country came together to learn how to become leaders. In two short weeks I made some of the best friends I’ve ever had in my life. In the two months since I’ve seen all my new friends, the way we’ve all kept in touch is truly exciting. Whether we are video chatting on Skype, IM-ing on Facebook Chat, e-mailing each other, or texting, I know the friends I have made will be friends forever. This camp had such a strong feeling of community that we all said we became a family. It’s crazy how people from opposite ends of the country, from places as different as Washington to Tennessee can

Northwest Yeshiva High School senior Jonah Kohen has been announced as a National Merit Scholar semifinalist. Jonah, born to a German mother and Turkish father, hopes to attend Washington University in St. Louis, Lehigh University in Pennsylvania, or the University of Rochester in New York. His future plans include majoring in engineering and eventually going into biomedical engineering with the hope of finding new ways of combating hard-to-cure diseases. Courtesy NYHS

October Worship Experiences at TEMPLE Friday, October 2 6:00 PM • Bellevue Shabbat Unplugged 6:00 PM • Seattle Classic Sabbat Saturday, October 3 9:30 AM • Seattle Torah & T’Fillah Together 10:30 AM • Seattle Shacharit Service 10:30 AM • Bellevue Shacharit Service & Family Sukkot Potluck Friday, October 9 6:00 PM • Bellevue Shabbat Kesher 6:00 PM • Seattle Rock Shabbat Saturday, October 10 9:30 AM • Seattle Torah & T’Fillah Together 10:30 AM • Seattle Shacharit Service 10:30 AM • Bellevue Shacharit Service 7:00 PM • Bellevue Simchat Torah Celebration Friday, October 16 6:00 PM • Bellevue Kabbalat Shabbat 6:00 PM • Seattle Shabbat Unplugged

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Saturday, Octber 17 9:30 AM • Seattle Torah & T’Fillah Together 10:30 AM • Seattle Shacharit Service 10:30 AM • Bellevue Shacharit Service 5:00 PM • Bellevue Havdalah Service Friday, October 23 6:00 PM • Bellevue Rock Shabbat 7:30 PM • Seattle 4th Shabbat Saturday, October 24 9:30 AM • Seattle Torah & T’Fillah Together 10:30 AM • Seattle Shacharit Service No Bellevue AM Service Friday, October 30 6:00 PM • Bellevue Kabbalat Shabbat 6:00 PM • Seattle Kabbalat Shabbat Saturday, October 31 9:30 AM • Seattle Torah & T’Fillah Together 10:30 AM • Seattle Shacharit Service 10:30 AM • Bellevue Shacharit Service

TEMPLE De Hirsch Sinai

in my religion, thanks to this amazing organization that has helped to shaped my life. Wherever I go in life, I know I will feel confident in the abilities I have learned and the maturity I have grown into because of the positive environment in which I was nurtured. No matter the time or situation, I know I will always have Judaism to guide me throughout my endeavors, providing positive opportunities and morals to learn. Judaism is my life, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. Eliana Schauffler has been active in her B’nai B’rith Girls chapter, Halom, throughout high school, holding several board positions including president and vice president. She currently holds the regional board position of Dovairet, vice president of Jewish education. Eliana is a junior at Newport High School in Bellevue.

Cynthia Williams Buying or Selling a Home? Call 206-769-7140

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find a rare friendship, thanks to a bond over the love for Jewish leadership. This, in fact, is an example of one of the strongest forces of Judaism in my life. The organization BBYO has done so much for me as an individual: I’ve been given the opportunity to be myself, lead my peers, and focus on my beliefs. Every week when we meet at the JCC on Mercer Island, I feel the sensation that I am entering my second home. The atmosphere is engaging, friendly, and warm. Not only do I enjoy this organization on a social and familial level, but I am also given the opportunity to give back to the community that has given me so much. Through raising tzedakah, yearly participation in J-Serve, and with UNICEF donations, I feel I am making my mark as a teenager. There is more to our high school yea rs t ha n foc usi ng on t he soc ia l aspects and acting wild. I have found security and happiness in myself and

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12 jtnews

n the teens take over

friday, september 25, 2009

Backstage pass: For the day, I am a homeless youth in Seattle By Duncan Ende I’m used to learning things in a classroom, but on the last day of spring break I embarked upon an educational journey I’ll never forget. With Dr. Wes Browning and Anitra Freeman, both members of the Real Change editorial committee, as my backstage pass, I venture into a world of new experiences, starting with a new name. For the day, call me Jackson. For the day, I am a homeless youth in Seattle. First stop, the Belltown food bank. I see a line of people who look like they wish they could go back to sleep. But they can’t. Because if you don’t get there early, the line gets longer and the food runs out. The workers look stressed, but they’re keeping things moving. Their job is to make sure that as many people as possible can get food today, and to make the wait as short as possible. When it’s my turn, I look at the selection of food and see fruit, bread, dry rice, and cabbage. I quickly make my choices. The rice looks appealing, yet what’s the good of rice if you can’t cook it? Instead I take two more apples, and remember what Dr. Wes said to me earlier: “We waited in a long line for cold food.” And I proceed to Tent City. I remember Dr. Wes telling me he would spend a whole day scoping out a place to sleep for the night when he was homeless. I realize that after living that way, seeing a community

2-for-1 “Mazel Tov” Cards When you let JFS “Tribute Cards” do the talking, you send your best wishes and say you care about funding vital JFS programs here at home. Call Irene at (206) 861-3150 or, on the web, click on “Donations” at www.jfsseattle.org. Use Visa or MasterCard. It’s the most gratifying 2-for-1 in town.

job training. If I want to, I can take a class that teaches me how to be a barista at a coffee shop. I feel like I am in the midst of people who care about my future success, which is something that can motivate you more than anything else. I again feel so lucky to have a car to drive me to my final stop. We arrive at Peace for the Streets by Kids from the Streets; it is not a large school buildingtype place like the Orion Center. Instead it is a comfortable house, cozy and inviting. I step inside, peer around, and can feel the chaotic, but also friendly and homey energy inside t he place a lready. Elaine, who seems to b e b ot h c ommander and mother of the place, shouts to one of the teens. The girl comes to the front door, greets me kindly and hands me an initiation form to fill out. After I finish the form, I’m told that as of that moment I have officially become a member of PSKS and can come back anyCourtesy Karen Chachkes time. A guy who I can Duncan Ende, who as Jackson spent a day earlier this instantly tell is really year as a homeless youth in Seattle. friendly and cool sits

of tents in my eyes looks like opportunity. I can have a reliable place to sleep at night, a group of people I can grow to trust and befriend, and a place to keep my worldly possessions. It appears I’ve found the right place to get back on my feet. I am lucky enough to catch a ride to the Orion Teen Center in downtown Seattle. As I enter the door they are just wrapping up lunchtime. I am offered food, a place to hang out, a locker to store my possessions, and even fresh clothes. I am told there are classes offered that can get me a high school diploma, and even

If you go: As a part of the Jewish community-wide Focus & Fight: A Call to End Poverty program, a speaker from the Real Change speakers’ bureau will talk about living homeless in Seattle on Mon., Oct. 5 at 7:30 p.m. at Hillel at the University of Washington, 4745 17th Ave. NE, Seattle. Contact Robert Beiser at 206-527-1997 or robert@ hilleluw.org for further information.

down next to me; he says his name is Blue. We talk for a bit and he asks where I’m from. “Vashon Island,” I reply. He tells me he has been coming to Vashon for summers since he was seven years old. Hopefully I’ll run into him this summer when he comes out. As it happens, this afternoon they are having a class on cartoon drawing taught by a member of PSKS. Invited to join in on the fun, I gladly accept the offer. I really enjoy the class, but the best part is having the opportunity to converse with people who grew up so different from me, but with whom I also have a lot in common. I can tell that PSKS is home to a lot of the people who spend time here, a place where they can drop in and be themselves and feel comfortable. Heading back to Vashon, I think about the people I met, how fortunate I am, and how I cannot take my life for granted anymore. And how important it is to help. It doesn’t take much to make a big difference. The day I spent gaining knowledge, connecting with homeless people, and learning about people with hard lives opened my eyes in a way they never have been before. I think if more people could see what it’s like to have nothing, we’d all be inspired to give a little.  Duncan Ende, 15, is a freshman at Vashon High School on Vashon Island. He and his 13-year-old brother Ezra went on a tour of urban poverty last spring, hosted by two members of the Real Change editorial committee. This piece originally appeared in the July 1, 2009 edition of the Real Change newspaper, which provides income opportunities for low-income and homeless residents of Seattle.

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friday, september 25, 2009

Why I am president of NCSY By Zelle Rettman NCSY is one of the best things that has ever happened to me. I began doing the National Conference of Synagogue Youth in the 6th grade, originally because all my friends from Seattle Hebrew Academy did it. However, NCSY slowly turned into more than just a social event. It turned into a different way for me to get in touch with Judaism. Going to a Jewish school educates you, but NCSY helps you to feel the Judaism. My favorite part of NCSY became “ebbing” at Shabbatons and onegs. At the end of the third meal, ever yone pulls their chairs into a circle and sings. Songs like “Esau Einey” have become some of my favorites because of the sensations I remember that came from singing them in a circle with my fellow NCSYers. NCSY has been able to teach me a lot about Judaism that school hasn’t. One reason for this is probably that I am not “graded” on my questions or answers or anything. That is not to say that school “grades” me on my concept of Judaism, it just forces me to be a certain way and portray myself a certain way because I go to school there, though going there was my choice. However, there isn’t as much of a variety for Jewish schools as there is for Jewish youth groups, so when I chose NCSY to be my main focus for Jewish

Courtesy Zelle Rettman

Northwest Yeshiva High School senior Zelle Rettman. youth groups, I really chose it. After going to both religious and Conservative Jewish schools, I decided that

jtnews 13

n the teens take over

The Bielski Brothers By Grace Almo

I liked the Orthodox perspective the most and it made the most sense to me, so NCSY was a place for me to delve into it further. From 6th grade until 10th grade, I enjoyed events like NCSY 500 (gocarting), Slice of Chai (exploring Judaism over f ree pizza), and t he Seattle Shabbaton. After enjoying all those events for so long, and growing so much as a person, I decided I wanted to take more of a leadership role in NCSY and to give back to incoming NCSYers what NCSY had given me. I joined Seattle NCSY Chapter Board as a 10th grader as fundraising chair, because I wanted to make sure we had enough money to run all the events we wanted — and then some. This led to me becoming president of NCSY’s Seattle Chapter Board in 11th grade, and now, for 12th grade, I’m still president. Being president is more than just delegating jobs to the other people on board. It is helping people with their jobs, picking up the slack should there be any, and making sure everyone feels welcome. It can be a pretty difficult job at times, especially close to the Seattle Shabbaton, but it is all worth it. Zelle Rettman, president of Seattle’s National Conference of Synagogue Youth’s board, attends Northwest Yeshiva High School.

My heart beats fast, I am nervous. I need to get in and out, quick. I hear a gunshot, could be my brother, dead on the ground. I can’t give up now. After all of this, we must keep hope. Back at forest, I have many people waiting for me. On the count of… One. Two. Three. Go! I casually walk, trying not to look suspicious. No getting caught now. I see the ghetto. Inside, I see some Jewish people, my family. I need to convince them to come away with me to a better place, and fast. The smell of decaying bodies is unbearable, The sight is even worse. I quickly gather as many as possible. No man can be left behind. This is my motto. This poem, by Seattle Hebrew Academy graduate Grace Almo, is based on three brothers who managed to save about 1,200 people from the Nazis’ reign. It was an entry in the Washington State Holocaust Education Resource Center’s 2009 Jacob Friedman Holocaust Writing and Art Contest.

Looking to connect for the High Holidays? Find ticket information at www.HolidaysInSeattle.org A big thank you to our High Holiday outreach partners: Albertsons Bagel Deli Bagel Oasis Borders Central Market Elliott Bay Café Kress IGA Madison Market

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September 25, 2009

Networking Our Local Jewish Community

CoNNECTiNG PRoFESSioNAlS wiTh ouR jEwiSh CommuNiTY

Care Givers Home Care Associates A program of Jewish Family Service 206-861-3193 www.homecareassoc.org  Provides personal care, assistance with daily activities, medication reminders, light housekeeping, meal preparation and companionship to older adults living at home or in assisted-living facilities.

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Hyatt Home Care Services, LLC In-Home Care Aides 206-851-5277 ✉☎ [email protected] Assisting with non-medical tasks & home support needs • Housekeeping Personal care • Respite care • Meal preparation. Washington State Licensed Home Care Agency

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Quality Home Care for Seniors 206-459-5255 ✉☎ [email protected] Rivka Park, RN offers private geriatric nursing care coupled with unique domestic skills in support of seniors seeking to maintain quality of life at home. Extensive references.

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College Placement

Dentists

College Placement Consultants 425-453-1730 ✉☎ [email protected] www.collegeplacementconsultants.com  Pauline B. Reiter, Ph.D. Expert help with college selection, applications and essays. 40 Lake Bellevue, #100, Bellevue 98005

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Linda Jacobs & Associates College Placement Services 206-323-8902 ✉☎ [email protected] Successfully matching student and school. Seattle.

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Leah’s Catering, Inc. Seattle’s Premier Kosher Caterer 206-985-2647 ✉☎ [email protected] Full Service, Glatt Kosher, Delivery or Pickup All your catering needs. Va’ad supervised.

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Madison Park Cafe Simmering in Seattle for over 30 years 206-324-2626 Full service catering for all your Jewish life passages: Bar/Bat Mitzvahs • Weddings • Brit Milah • Special Occasions. Karen Binder

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Matzoh Momma Catering Catering with a personal touch 206-324-MaMa Serving the community for over 25 years. Full service catering and event planning for all your Life Cycle events. Miriam and Pip Meyerson

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Certified Public Accountants Dennis B. Goldstein & Assoc., CPAs, PS 425-455-0430 F 425-455-0459 ✉☎ [email protected] 12715 Bel-Red Rd., Suite 120 Bellevue 98005

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Newman Dierst Hales, PLLC Nolan A. Newman, CPA 206-284-1383 ✉☎ [email protected] www.ndhaccountants.com  Tax • accounting • Healthcare Consulting

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Photographers

Michael Spektor, D.D.S. 425-643-3746 ✉☎ [email protected] www.spektordental.com  Specializing in periodontics, dental implants, and cosmetic gum therapy. Bellevue

Spear Studios, Graphic Design Sandra Spear 206-621-0240 ✉☎ [email protected] • Newsletters • Brochures • Logos • Letterheads • Custom invitations • Photo Editing for Genealogy Projects

All About Graphics Joel Dames Photography 206-367-1276 www.joeldamesphotography.com  Events, Commercial, Portraits, Graphics, albums • all Your Photographic Needs

Wendy Shultz Spektor, D.D.S. 425-454-1322 ✉☎ [email protected] www.spektordental.com  Emphasis: Cosmetic and Preventive Dentistry • Convenient location in Bellevue.

insurance

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www.jtnews.net www.jew-ish.com

Counselors/Therapists Jewish Family Service Individual, couple, child and family therapy 206-861-3195 www.jfsseattle.org  Expertise with life transitions, relationships and personal challenges. Jewish knowledge and sensitivity. Offices in Seattle and Bellevue. Day and evening hours. Subsidized fee scale available.

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Frances M. Pomerantz, MS Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist 425-451-1655 ✉☎ [email protected] Specializing in couples and individuals. Facilitating better communication, more satisfying relationships, increased selfawareness and personal growth. Day & early eve hours available. 1621 114th Ave. SE, #224, Bellevue 98004

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PlACE YouR SERviCE oNliNE SEE YouR SERviCE iN PRiNT

Catering Goldberg’s Famous Delicatessen 425-641-6622 ✉☎ [email protected] www.goldbergsdeli.com  Catering for weddings, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs Birthdays, business events & all your Special occasions • Contact Khled/James

Graphic Design

Dentists B. Robert Cohanim, D.D.S., M.S. Orthodontics for Adults and Children 206-322-7223 www.smile-works.com  Invisalign Premier Provider. On First Hill across from Swedish Hospital.

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Warren J. Libman, D.D.S., M.S.D. 425-453-1308 www.libmandds.com  Certified Specialist in Prosthodontics: • Restorative • Reconstructive • Cosmetic Dentistry 14595 Bel Red Rd. #100, Bellevue

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Arnold S. Reich, D.M.D. 425-228-6444 www.drareich.com  Just off 405 in N. Renton • Gentle Care • Family • Preventive • Cosmetic Dentistry

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Financial Services Hamrick Investment Counsel, LLC Roy a. Hamrick, CFa 206-441-9911 ✉☎ [email protected] Professional portfolio management services for individuals, foundations and nonprofit organizations.

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Mass Mutual Financial Group Albert Israel, CFP 206-346-3327 ✉☎ [email protected] Jamison Russ 206-346-3266 ✉☎ [email protected] Retirement planning for those nearing retirement • Estate planning for those subject to estate taxes • General investment management • Life, disability, long-term care & health insurance • Complimentary one hour sessions available

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Solomon M. Karmel, Ph.D First Allied Securities 425-454-2285 x 1080 www.hedgingstrategist.com  Retirement, stocks, bonds, college, annuities, business 401Ks.

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Funeral/Burial Services

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Hills of Eternity Cemetery Owned and operated by Temple De Hirsch Sinai 206-323-8486 Serving the greater Seattle Jewish community. Jewish cemetery open to all pre-need and at-need services. Affordable rates • Planning assistance. Queen Anne, Seattle

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Your Business Category Your Company Name Your Name or Company Your Phone Number ✉☎ Your E-mail address Your Web site  A few lines of copy about your business. Your business address

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Dani Weiss Photography 206-760-3336 www.daniweissphotography.com  Photographer Specializing in People. Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, parties, promotions & weddings. Reasonable rates Digital or film

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Abolofia Insurance Agency Bob Abolofia, Agent 425-641-7682 F 425-988-0280 ✉☎ [email protected] Independent agent representing Pemco since 1979

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Real Estate Helene Rubens Residential & Investment Specialist Greater Eastside/King County areas 206-817-1300 (cell) ✉☎ [email protected] www.johnlscott.com/helener  I have knowledge and skills to assure an easy and stress free real estate transaction. I will turn your dreams into reality and walk you through the process with ease!

Eastside Insurance Services Chuck Rubin, agent 425-271-3101 F 425-277-3711 4508 NE 4th, #B, Renton Tom Brody, agent 425-646-3932 F 425-646-8750 2227 112th Ave. NE, Bellevue We represent Pemco, Safeco, Hartford & Progressive www.e-z-insurance.com 

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Senior Services

United Insurance Brokers, Inc. Linda Kosin 425-454-9373 ✉☎ [email protected] F 425-453-5313 Your insurance source since 1968 Business, group and personal insurance 50 116th Ave SE #201, Bellevue 98004

Jewish Family Service 206-461-3240 www.jfsseattle.org  Comprehensive geriatric care management and support services for seniors and their families. Expertise with in-home assessments, residential placement, family dynamics and on-going case management. Jewish knowledge and sensitivity.

invitations

Travel Services

Occasionally Yours Adrian Lustig, owner 425-644-8551 ✉☎ [email protected] Specializing in Jewish Wedding and Bar/Bat Mitzvah Invitations 20% Discount • Hebrew type

Travel the World with Quest 206 327 1274 ✉☎ [email protected] www.questtravel.ca  Great airfares to Israel, South Africa and the rest of the world! Your Journey Awaits: packages and tours to experience the cultures of people all around the world. Cruises: You are just one click away from searching the world’s leading cruise lines.

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mohelim Rabbi Simon Benzaquen 206-721-2275 • 206-723-3028 Fastest Mohel in the West Certified Mohel

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Congregation Beth Shalom Cemetery 206-524-0075 ✉☎ [email protected] This beautiful new cemetery is available to the Jewish community and is located just north of Seattle.

Now in print

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ThouSANDS oFREADERS iN PRiNT AND oNliNE = Thousands of prospective clients

Our Professional Services Directory has changed! Now you can promote your business online as well as in the pages of JTNews.

and online!

Post your own listing on our Web site and choose even more options, including your logo, up to five photographs, and detailed text you can update any time you like. If your business is on the Eastside or South Sound, call Lynn at 206-774-2264; Northend or West Seattle, call Stacy at 206-774-2292; Urban Seattle, call David at 206-774-2235 Call 206-441-4553 for more information, or log on to www.jtnews.net and click on the Professional Directory logo to get started.

Please call Becky at 774-2238 to update your print listing and receive an online listing free for a limited time!

You come highly recommended.

the shouk help wanted

tutoring

@

jtnews

admissions counseling

experienced cantor-tutor iSrael ProgramS manager the Jewish Federation of greater Seattle is recruiting for an Israel Programs Manager. As a member of the Community Services team, they are responsible for developing creative and innovative ways to connect and engage the Seattle Jewish community with Israel, using programs, our partnership with Kiryat Malachi/Hof Ashkelon and interfacing with other local Jewish and nonJewish organizations. For a complete job description, go to http://JewishInSeattle.org/about-us/jobs/ israel-programs-manager Please e-mail a cover letter, résumé and three references to [email protected] Deadline for applications is October 5

part-time music teacher wanted Jennifer rosen Meade preschool is looking for a part-time music teacher, Fridays, 2–3 hours/week. Needs to play piano or guitar and have a good understanding of secular and Jewish songs and music. Knowledge of Hebrew is a plus. please contact laurel abrams at [email protected]

206-715-8796

Cantor Marina Belenky [email protected] www.cantormarina.com

hebrew instruction & tutoring All ages Bar/Bat Mitzvah students My home or yours • Seattle area

call Anat 206-853-2286 or e-mail [email protected]

home services

college placement

handyman/reliable maintenance

a college eDUcatIon Is a maJor InVestment

Affordable, 20 year’s experience. Construction, plumbing, electrical Remodels & additions welcome. Licensed • Insured • Bonded Excellent references • Free estimates call rick Petersen 425-736-3433

Sensitive professional assistance to ensure a succesful match between student and school

linda Jacobs & associates college Placement services

206/323-8902 insurance services

Events, special & formal occasions, weddings, Bar/Bat Mitzvahs, music & educational Seattle & Northwest Excellent references Please contact anat at 206-853-2286 or e-mail: [email protected]

Experienced piano & voice teacher

Tutoring Hebrew Beginners to advanced Bar/Bat Mitzvahs Children & adults welcome Israeli instructor fluent in Hebrew 206-443-0766 or 425-443-0766 E-mail: [email protected]

[email protected]

voice instruction

VOICE LESSONS

individuals • doubles teens • adults

Janet Rayor 206.706.3322

tiM J. cashMan agent — lUtcf

state Farm Insurance company

206-232-1024

[email protected] 7435 SE 27th Street, Mercer Is., WA 98040

• Free Pick-up • No DOL filing • No smog certif. • Running or not

donate your used car to chabad & receive a tremendous tax write-off. • Any vehicle okay • Plus RVs, boats, real estate, lots, etc.

caregiving

vacation rental

caregiver companion/cna, nursing care

Palm SPringS getaway

• Private care, your home, nursing facility or hospital • Single woman, companion, excellent cook • Special training in Alzheimers, dementia, diabetes • Transportation to appts., shopping, outings, etc.

If not satisfied with your nursing care, please give me a call: 425-941-6323 excellent references

2 bdrm, 2 bath condo. Patio and rooftop deck with mountain view. Walk to shops, restaurants and movies. Check out www.casaweinberg.com and book now! funeral/burial services cemetery gan shalom A Jewish cemetery that meets the needs of the greater Seattle Jewish community. Zero interest payments available.

cleaning services

domestic angels clean your house and office

Reasonable rates • Licensed/Bonded Responsible • References • Free estimate Seattle/Eastside

call Yolimar perez or Maria absalon [email protected]

call becky: 206-774-2238

WE NEED CARS!

206-527-1411

next issue: october 2 ad deadline: september 25

announcements

www.RougeMusic.com/teaching.html

206-356-2245 or 206-391-9792

For insurance and Financial services

photography

PhotograPhy by anat

Bar/Bat Mitzvahs—all levels Officiates all Lifecycles

hebrew inStruCtion

september 25, 2009

looking for experienced cleaning help?— Reliable, honest and a price you can afford. Excellent references. Call Elaine at 425-868-5091/206-491-7435. www.elainegordonevans.com

For information, call temple Beth am at 206-525-0915.

Traditional Jewish funeral services provided by the Seattle Jewish Chapel. For further information, please call 206-725-3067. Burial plots are available for purchase at Bikur Cholim and Machzikay Hadath cemeteries. For further information, please call 206-721-0970.

www www.jtnews.net

See Medical & Dental. Inside every issue of JTNews and online at www.professionalwashington.com

Professional Directory

to Jewish Washington

Networking Our Local Jewish Community