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�For Membership and Society Information:
(203) 321-1373 ext. 150 ~ email: jhslfc@gmail.com
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2011 jHS Heritage Award Celebration
i!WISH
'HISTORICAL
SOCIETY
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The Jewish Historical Society of Lower Fairfield County
honors
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as the recipients of the 201l JHS Heritage Award
for their dedication to the Jewish Community and beyond
Sunday, June 12, 2011 • 3:30 pm
Temple Beth EI, 350 Roxbury Road, Stamford, Connecticut
An afternoon of celebration and appreciation
with hors d'ouerves and music provided by
Stamford Young Artists Philharmonic and Joyce DiCamillo Trio
Reception and Tributes
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ea, ------------------..;
�•
JEWISH
'HISTORICAL
SOCIETY
Dear JJ{S :Jvtem6ers ana quests)
OflOWU
FAIR FlflD COU N TY
BOARD OFDIRECTORS 2010·2011
OFFICERS
President
Eva Weller
Executive Vice President
Fred S.Golove
Vice President, Administration
Maggie B. Levy
Vice President, Heritage Education
Gail G.Trell (ImmediatePast Pres.)
Corresponding Secretary
Edith Neidle
Recording Secretary
Paul D.Plotnick
Membership Secretary
Patricia Samuels
Treasurer
Bernard Teig
BOARD OFDIRECTORS
Evelyn Fowler
JuliHarris
Ellen Sue Hattenbach
Joan Kranz
Minerva Kweskin
Bernie Levy (ITSpecialist)
Hersh W. Libo, MD
Milton Mann
Norma Mann
Frieda Reitman, PhD
Betty Roberts
Barbara Rosenberg
Marcie Schoenfeld
Jack Skydel
Arnold Steiger
Rhoda Steiger
Elisabeth Steinberg
Dan Stevens, z'1
Agnes Vertes
Penelope Wolff
Executive Advisory Committee
Irwin Miller* - Historian/Founding President
Lester Sharlach*
George Goldberg* z'l
Julian Reitman*
Fred S. Golove*
David Kweskin*
Arnold Yelin*
Maggie B. Levy*
Vivian Miller - Archivist Emerita
*Past Presidents
We[come to theJewisli'HistoricalSociety 's 7tliHeritaqe }lwara
Euent. - our tlieme: Humanity, Harmony, Heritaqe. Since 1999) every
otlieryear, the Jewisli Histotical Society ofLower P'airfield County (JJ{S)
gatliers togetlier witli the Carger community ofourregion to pay tri6ute to
a person orpersons ofextraordinary merit. rrlie JJ{S Heritaqe }lward;
our hiqhest honor, is meant to ac/tnowfeage tliose perspns ofunique ana
significant accomplishment, earnedovermanyyears ofdevotedservice to
ourJewisli community. 'Ioday is an opportunityfor the wider community
to iearn more aboutJJ{S anato celebrate ourJewisli lieritage 6y
recognizing tliose who, tlirougli tlieirdepth. ofdedicatedcommitment)
strengtlien ourcommunity anaour heritaqe.
'Today, we honor Eieanor ana:Jvtort Louienthal- wlio togetlier haoe
given mucli ofthemseloes, usually quietfy ana ((behind.the scenes") over
generationsfor the 6etterment ofStamford; Fairjieid County) ourstate
anaournation. rrliey haoe reachedout) personally, time anatime again)
to unite people anahaue shoum great respect anacompassion to tliose in
need-- Humanity. 'They have workgaharmoniously togetlier ana
supportedthe arts anamusic -- Harmony. r.Eacli lias supportededucation
personally tlirougli developinq anasustaining new programs wliicli
promote culture anaproviae a [egacyforfuture generations -- Heritaqe.
'IheJJ{S is honoredto salute r.E[e ana:Jvtortfor tlieir dedication ana
leadership, indioidually anatogetlier. On 6elialfofthe JJ{S) I welcome
you to share this special.event of music ana tri6utes.
r.Eva We[fer, (]>resiaent
�ea, - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 2011 JHS HERITAGE AWARD PROGRAM
Reception with Interlude
Lexi Bodick, acoustic bass & Brian Bodick, guitar
Welcome
Musical Selections by String Quartet from the Stamford Young Artists Philharmonic
Sarah Fountain, violin; Lauren Mascioli, violin; Elsie Colbert, viola; Greg Edelston, cello
Greetings
Rabbi Emily Korzenik and Dr. Ilana De Laney, Honorary Chairs
Proclamations
Fellowship Tribute
Readings
JHS 2020 Vision
Surprise Musical Selections
Presentation of 2011 JHS Heritage Award to
Eleanor and Mort Lowenthal
Acceptance
Joyce DiCamillo Trio
Joyce DiCamillo, piano; Iaron Plowden, percussion; Joe Sinaguglia, bass
Closing
ea, - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
�Top: With PopeJohn Paul 1990
Bottom Left: Boy Scouts at
Memorial Day Parade
Bottom Right: 1993 - "I Have A
Dream"
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - . /<,
�--Extraordinary Volunteer Spirit
Eleanor & Mort Lowenthal
The Jewish Historical Society of Lower Fairfield County (JHS)
honors Eleanor ("Ele") and Mort Lowenthal with its 2011 JHS
Heritage Award. This year's celebratory theme -- Humanity,
Harmony, Heritage -- captures the essence of Ele and Mort's
volunteer spirit and their myriad of contributions to supporting
people in Stamford, our region and the national Jewish
community. Over their fifty-two years in Stamford, they have
devoted their energies to the betterment of our community, to
fostering human rights, education, opportunity and achievement,
and to building bridges between diverse groups. Ele and Mort
have given of themselves with generous philanthropy, vision,
leadership, initiative and personal hands-on labor to support an
incredibly broad and extensive list of community organizations
in and around Fairfield County and well beyond.
Ele's countless hours working with the youth of our area over the past 40 years focused on tutoring in
the public schools, the Step Program at Stevens School, and the "I Have a Dream" program. She has
been a driving force, behind the scenes, for the Stamford Young Artists Philharmonic, the youth
orchestra for talented musicians, with three decades as vice president, subscription chairman and
special advisor. She is t reasurer and membership chairman of the Springdale Figure Skating Club.
For the last 25 years, she has regularly cooked meals for and brought lunches to Stamford's Pacific
House Shelter, New Covenant House, and many other programs which touch people's lives.
Serving on the board of the Council of Churches and Synagogues, Ele was especially involved in two
years of preparation for the 15th National Workshop on Christian/Jewish Relations, which included
lectures, panels and workshops. It was held at the Stamford Sheraton Hotel and attended by more
than 1,000 people over a three-day period.
�ea, - - - - - - - - - - - - - As a board member and active contributor to the Fellowship
for jewish Learning, Ele has chaired the congregation's
outreach efforts for many years. Her work has incl uded
collecting food and clothing for Person to Person, regular
sandwich making for the Yerwood Center, preparing
Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners for several of Stamford's
charitable institutions, and so much more. Where there was
a need, Ele was there to lead the way.
While a board member of the Stamford Coalition for Mutual
Respect - an alliance of many years between the Bethel AME
Church and the Fellowship for jewish Learning - Ele helped develop the Coalition college scholarship
program, providing cultural and tutorial opportunities, in addition to financial aid. Ele's ice skating
parties for the Coalition's college scholarship students and their families have been an annual
highlight.
Mort shares with Ele her interest in young people and education. He was founder and first
Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 38 in Stamford. He drafted the desegregation plan for the Stamford
Public Schools, which became a model for other communities across the nation before many civic
leaders felt compelled to desegregate their school systems. Mort continues to playa leadership role
at his alma mater as a life member of the Cornell University Council and was among the first group
of recipients of Cornell's prestigious Frank H.T. Rhodes Alumni Service Award, as well as past
president of the Cornell University Alumni Association. He is deeply committed to fostering jewish
education at the college level and is a former trustee of Hebrew College, a current national board
member of Hillel, and is on the Hillel Board at UCONN. He is a founder of the first jewish High
School of Connecticut and of Kulanu, an educational program for teens run by the United jewish
Federation's Bureau of jewish Education and of an adult evening of community-wide learning with
"Tapestry." Mort is also a longtime member of the Hoffman Lecture Series Committee, which selects .
and brings national speakers to Temple Beth EI for the Stamford community.
Mort, who made a career as an investment banker with Donaldson, Lufkin and Jenrette and then
Wertheim Schroder, has his own extraordinary resume of local and national community leadership
initiatives, including being a founding member of the Stamford Partnership, first chairman of the
Stamford Human Rights Commission and Chairman of the Stamford Police Commission during its
-------------------- ea, -------------------/'
�ea, - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - transition to an integrated force. He was thefirst President and a 22-year board member of the
Yerwood Center after the organization 's move to its current Fairfield Avenue location, for which Mort
led the fundraising campaign. He was Vice Chairman of St. Luke's LifeWorks and' is currently a
board member and Vice Chairman of Liberation Programs. A leading member of the Fellowship for
Jewish Learning, he has held a board seat on the Council of Churches and Synagogues and received
the Council's 1995 Community Service award .
·M ort has served on numerous national boards, including the American Jewish Committee, where he
and Ele served as part of the first American Jewish delegation to visit the Pope, and the Wilstein
Institute for Jewish Policy Studies, for which he was Vice Chairman. He is a current board member of
the Yale Institution for Interdisciplinary Study of Anti-Semitism .
In spite of their full volunteer calendar, Ele and Mort cherish
time to pursue personal interests, centered on music, art, and
special time with their children, grandchildren and friends.
Ele's love of ice-skating puts her on the rink six days a week and
she still finds time to play the piano! As for Mort, he loves
trains, builds steam engines, models and is an antique car
hobbyist and all-around amateur garage workshop engineer.
Humanity, Harmony, Heritage: The Jewish Historical Society proudly salutes Ele and Mort Lowenthal,
innovators who lead by doing and inspire us to grow and improve the community through their
vision and personal example. They truly live this year's celebratory theme.
Ele and Mort with their grandchildren;
Shai Akabas,joelle Milton, ShoshanaAkabas,
Lev Akabas, Tal Akabas
ea, - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
�JOSEPH I. LIEBERMAN
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WASHINGTON , DC 20510-0703
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June 2, 2011
Ms. Eva Wellcr
President
Jewish Historical Society of Lower Fairfield County
P.O. Box 16918
Stamford, CT 06905
Dear Friends:
It is my pleasure to send my official greetings to you all as you gather to celebrate the
2011 Jewish Historical Society (l1IS) Heritage Award Reception. I am also pleased to extend
my congratulations to your honorees for the event: Eleanor and Mort Lowenthal.
The Jewish Historical Society has grown to play an important role in the community by
providing a first rate collection of Judaic history with the addition of a comprehensive collection
of Holocaust literature . Over the years, the Jewish Historical Society as upheld its mission to be
a resource for the community to discover, collect, preserve, exhibit, enjoy, and develop interest
in Jewish history and religion. I commend the staff of volunteers for their commitment tv
maintaining a vast treasure of historical items with care and compassion. As recipients of the
2011 JHS Ileritage 1\ward, Eleanor and Mort are being recognized for their longtime support of
organizations and activities within the Jewish community and Fairfield County, and embody the
principles of the theme for the reception "Humanity - Harmony - Heritage. " Your honorees at
this event arc truly deserving of the recognition you have bestowed upon them. Eleanor and
Mort Lowenthal have devoted their energies to the betterment of the community for over forty
years, and I am pleased to be one of the many thanking them for their many good works .
Again, please accept my best wishes to everyone attending the award ceremony and my
most sincere congratulations to Eleanor and Mort. I wish you all much continued success in the
future.
WitheVery~
JOSEPH I. LIEBERMAN
United States Senator
JIL/dg
�May 25, 201 1
Eva Weller, President
Jewish Historical Socie ty of Lower Fairfield County
P.O. Box 16918
Stam ford. Connecticut 06905
Dear Ms. Weller.
Congratulation on your wise - but obvious - choice of Eleanor and Mort Lowenth al as
recipients 01'2011 JH Heritage Awa rd.
As a resident of Stamford for many yea rs, I knew firsthand the many contributio ns which
Eleanor and Mort have made to their community - Boy Scou ts, Stam ford Young Artists
Philharm oni c, the Pacific Hou se f helter, Stamford Police Commission, American Jewi sh
Co mm ittee. the list goes on and on.
Eleanor and Mort, people look up to you a models of community spirit and dedicatio n.
tam ford children are 0 fortunat e to have benefi ted from your time and energy with them. By
focusing on childhood education and the arts, your con tributions with live on for many
generations. You richly dese rve this award and recognit ion lor all that you have done, and
continuing to do, for the city of Stamford.
Warm est regards.
fr-!1Ji-./4
Richard Blumenthal
United tates Senate
�~ff¢me 0/S}tead9Zeco;mdion
f!lj,went«i'to
Eleanor ana'Mort Lotuenthai
Tor their unuiauerinq commitment to the Jewish community of greater 'Fairfield. County and beyond.
June 12, 2011
DATE
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ea,
co
--V'
�WHEREAS:
The City of Stamford is proud to join Jewish Historical Society of Lower Fairfield County in celebration of their 27th
Anniversary as they present Eleanor and Mort Lowenthal, long time Stamford residents, with the 2011 JHS Heritage Award
for their tireless commitment to our community and nation; and
WHEREAS:
For over 50 years, Eleanor and Mort Lowenthal have made numerous voluntary contributions to the fabric of life in the
City of Stamford, devoting their energies to the betterment of our community and working to foster opportunity,
education and achievement, especially for area you th, as well as harmony among people from all walks of life and
backgrounds; and
WHEREAS :
Eleanor has spent countless hours working with local you th as a driving force for the Stamford Young Artists Philharmonic,
as a Board member of the Council of Churches and Synagogues, the Fellowship for Jewish Learning,
"I Have a Dream" program and for decades as a tutor in the schools; and
WHEREAS :
Mort has contributed to the community by serving as the first Chairman of the Stamford Human Rights Commission,
Chairman of the Stamford Police Commission, Chairman and member of the Yerwood Center for 22 years and author of
the d esegregation plan for the Stamford Public Schools, a model for other communities. He continues to give back to th e
community as a Board member of Hillel (national), Kulanu, theJewish High School of Connecticut and the UnitedJewish
Federation (UJF) Bureau ofJ ewish Education; and
WHEREAS:
Eleanor and Mort, individually and together, inspire the citizens of Stamford by their living example of volunteer spirit
and commitment for the ?etterment of Stamford for over 50 years.
NOlv, THEREFORE, I, Mi chael A. Pavia" Mayor of the City of Stamford, hereby proclaim Sunday,June 12, 2011 to be
ELEANOR AND MORT LOWENTHAL DAY
in the City of Stamford, and extend our gratitude for their vision and many years of distinguished service to make Stamford a better place
through th eir commitment to education and public service.
M icha el A. Pavia
M ayor
�SENSE OF THE BOARD RESOLUTION
CONGRATULATING ELEANOR AND MORT LOWENTHAL
ON BEING AWARDED THE 2011 JHS HERITAGE AWARD
BY THE JEWISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY OF LOWER FAIRFIELD COUNTY
WHEREAS, on June 12, 2011 , the Jewish Historical Society of Lower Fairfield
County (JHS) is holding a celebration with the theme of "Humanity, Harmony and
Heritage" and at the celebration, the JHS will honor Eleanor and Mort Lowenthal
with its 2011 JHS Heritage Award, in celebration of the couple 's long and
exemplary history of volunteer service to the community; and
WHEREAS, for over 50 years , Eleanor and Mort Lowenthal have tutored, taught,
led , volunteered, created and otherwise supported an incredibly diverse and
extensive list of community organizations both locally and nationally; and .
WHEREAS, Eleanor Lowenthal has volunteered her services with a diverse
group of agencies, and, along with many other activities, her public service is
exemplified by her forty years of tutoring and her work with the Stamford Young
Artists Philharmonic to her board membership with the Counci l of Churches and
Synagogues and her twenty-five years of cooking and meal delivery with
Stamford's Pacific House Shelter and New Covenant House; and
WHEREAS, Mort Lowenthal was a founding member of the Stamford
Partnership, has held chairmanships with the Stamford Human Rights
Commission , the Stamford Police Commission, Yerwood Center, St. Luke's
LifeWorks and Liberation Programs and has served as a board member of the
National Board of the American Jewish Committee , Hillel (national), Shalom TV
and the UJF Bureau of Jewish Education , among others; and
WHEREAS, Mort Lowenthal drafted the desegregation plan for the Stamford
Public Schools, which served as a model for integration in education in other
communities throughout the country.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the 28th Stamford Board of
Representatives congratulates Eleanor and Mort Lowenthal for being awarded
the 2011 JHS Heritage Award .
AND BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Board of Representatives sincerely
thanks Eleanor and Mort Lowenthal for their many years of dedication, service
and contributions to the City of Stamford.
A proved by the 2E1h Board of Representatives
K
This 6th day of June, 201 ~d.
esident
. '
t7.
~qS~
Annie M. Summerv ille, Clerk
�Hillel
June 12, 20 11
The Jew ish Historical Society of Low er Fairfie ld County
P. O. Box 16918
Stamford, CT06905 -8901
Dear Friends,
The Jewish Histor ical Society of Lower Fairfield County (JHS) could not have chosen a nicer or more deserving
couple to honor than Eleanor and Mort Lowenthal. " Humanity, Harmony, and Heritage" have always been
important values to them .
Eleanor and M ort believe deeply in Hillel's maxim : "I f I am not fo r myself , wh o will be fo r me? But if I am on ly for
myself, w ho am I? If not now, w hen? " Not on ly do t hey believe in t his ancient Jewi sh w isdom, th ey act on it.
M ort and Eleanor roll up th eir sleeves and immerse t hemselves in the projects t hey support, whe t her it is as a
mem ber of a vol untee r board or as a front-line wo rker interacting wi th a person in need.
As a member of Hillel 's int ern ati onal Board of Directors, Mo rt has played a leading rol e in the organization's
transformation . He has champ ioned the import ance of tzedek , or social justice, to the Jewish people and to the
com munity at large. Generations of Jewish college students have had the privilege of working side-by -side w ith
him on a variety of hands-on social justice projects. He has won the ir hearts as a mensch and a role model.
Mort and Eleanor are not only helping to preserve history through their suppo rt of the JHS,they are contributing
new chapters t hrough the ir ongo ing vo lun tee r work and support for our Jewish community.
M azal tov to our dear, dear fr iends .
B'shalorn ,
Wayne l. Firestone, President
~-------------~--------------------..
Hillel: The Foundati on for Jewish Campus Life
Charles and Lynn Schusterman International Center
Arthur and Rochell e Belfer Building
800 Eighth Street , NW ! Washington, DC2000 1·3724
P: 202.449.6500 I F: 202.449.6400 info@hill el. org
�May 24,2011
Dear Eleanor and Mort,
It is said in Pirkei Avot 1:15 "Say little and do much." Since the first day I met you in West
Palm Beach (trying to get me to come to Stamford) I realized what extraordinary couple you are:
always in the 'driver's seat, although never seeking 'the glory. I marvel at your
persistence
and hard work towards reaching your goals with humility and . ... charm.
It is truly a privilege to be able to join the community in saluting both of you . You have
been my role models for Jewish leadership and true partnership. As devoted and committed
Jewish leaders you dedicated your life to strengthening civil rights, and Jewish connection
through Jewish learning and social action.
Mort, at United Jewish Federation you helped us establish the Bureau of Jewish Education
with your wisdom, vast experience, and generosity. You have been my partner in everything:
Kulanu , Tapestry, Scholar in Residence, the Institute for Advanced Jewish Learning and much
more.
Mort and Eleanor, you are a blessing to all the people you are involved in. May you and your
family be blessed with good health and long years, and much nahcat not only from your
grandchildren, but from all the many students you have supported and inspired.
May you conti nue to go from strength to strength!!!
With all my love and admiration,
\lana De Laney
Executive 0 irector
Bureau of Jewish Education
ea, -------------~
�In Honor of Ele and Mort Lowenthal
As friend and rabbi , it is my privilege to share some observations and thoughts about Ele and Mort Lowenthal who are so
deservedly being honored by the Jewish Historical Society.
Ele and Mort turn from praise . They are especially and consistently modest people. How often over the 24+ years that I have
known them , the time they have been members of the Fellowship, have they made it clear to me that praise would not be
welcome. At High Holiday services when I called people forward for aliyot I always wanted to tell the congregation about the
lovely things those being honored had done. But when it came to Ele and Mort whose contributions to our chevre and beyond
were so substantial I knew that they never wanted to call attention to themselves.
Let me tell you about just a few of the things that Ele and Mort have done for our congregation, just touching upon their
contributions to the broader community. Ele has been the chair of the Fellowship Outreach efforts for many years pulling together
the food and clothing collections for Person to Person, regularly making sandwiches and encouraging others to do so
for the Yerwood Center, preparing and arranging dinners for 60+ men at Pacific House, as well as Thanksgiving and Christmas day
meals for several local institutions.
Musical preparation for the High Holidays took place at the Lowenthal home, w ith Ele as a faithful member of the chorus.
Throughout our congregation's many years of association with the Stamford Bethel AME Church we shared religious celebrations
such as Passover Seder, Shabbat dinner and attended Bethel Church services. We created assembly programs highlighting
appreciation of diversity and mutual respect. Enough trust grew out of those efforts to make discussions of our differences
possible. Ele was central to making all of those things happen. And when the college scholarship program became a part of our
church/synagogue collaborations, the annual skating party for our scholarship students and their families took place at the Twin
Rinks.
So many of the Fellowship Friday evening Shabbat dinners and Torah study sessions took place at the Lowenthal home. All this is
without mentioning the important things that Mort did for our congregation behind the scenes. Everything was done quietly
bringing no attention to themselves, at times even refusing recognition. The very fact that they chose to belong to a small
congregation when they could have been "machers" anywhere tells you something about the Lowenthals as well.
As you know, the Lowenthal contributions go well beyond the Fellowship, well beyond the Jewish and non- Jewish organizations
of Stamford and include Jewish and non -Jewish national institutions, especi ally related to education. What was the inspiration for
this strong Lowenthal philanthropic thrust? Ele spoke frequently about the exemplary values of her parents and grandparents, in
particular her father's influence with regard to her appreciation of Judaism, service to the community and even her family's
enjoyment and involvement with ice skating. Mort's parents set an example of treating everyone equally, which Mort expressed
through his interest in human rights and by creating equality of opportunity through educational programs.
On a very personal level it has been a privilege for me to be a part of many joyful and sometimes sorrowful occasions in the life of
this beloved family. These occasions have enabled me to know the delightful Lowenthal children and grandchildren. And with my
dear husband, Sidney, we have had fun together as far away as Prague and as nearby as each others homes . For all that they have
brought to me, our congregation and far beyond I salute them with appreciation and love.
Emily Korzenik
Rabbi Emerita of the Fellowship for Jewish Learning
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�ea, - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - THE HISTORY OF JHS
The Jewish Historical Society of Lower Fairfield County has been our communities' resource for
discovering, explaining, preserving, developing interest in and enjoying Jewish history, not only of our
region , but of our collective heritage .
On September 20, 1982, a small group of Stamford residents perceived the need for a Jewish Historical
Society and met at the Jewish Community Center on Newfield Avenue to organize the Society.
A formal meeting was held in October 1983 at
the JCC to institute the Stamford Jewish Historical
Society, to "collect, preserve, research, record,
exhibit, and publish the story of the settlement
of Jews in the Stamford area from colonial days
through the 20th century," and when the
Certificate of Incorporation was approved by the
Secretary of the State of Connecticut on March
13, 1984, the Society was officially born. The
eight original incorporators were: Irwin J. Miller,
Cherri Sherman, Larry F. Ginsberg, George
Goldberg, Shirley Diamant, Ronald Marcus, Bert
Spelke, and Barbara Hotz. Later, Ruth Spigel was
elected to the first board, making a total of nine
members.
JHS/ UjF Workshop on Eth ical Wills
H istorian, Irw in M iller leading Lower East Side Bu s Tour
The name of the organization was changed in 1996 to The
Jewish Historical Society of Greater Stamford to signify the
desire to include the surrounding towns. Then, in June 2003 ,
the name was again changed to The Jewish Historical
Society of Lower Fairfield County (jHSLFC) to be more
inclusive and to reflect all the communities which it now
encompasses : Stamford, Greenwich, New Canaan, Darien,
Pound Ridge, Norwalk, Westport, Wilton, and Weston . At
about the same time, the Norwalk Jewish Historical Society
was merged into the JHSLFC.
ea, -------------~
�Items that some peop le may consider unimportant or just plain junk can be vital information to the ever
increasing knowledge of how jews in these communities settled , lived, worked and began to experience
"The Golden Medina" in a strange land in a strange new language. Old photos, documents, letters, diaries,
oral histories and congregational and organizational records help tell the story of life in days gone by. These
are carefully entered into files and computer databases by the volunteer archivists at the Society Archives and
are valuable resources to researchers.
The Harry Rosenbaum jHS judaica Library, housed at the
Jec, contains books about our rich jewish heritage, past
and present, as well as reference materials for educators,
students, and researchers. Staffed by volunteers to serve
the needs of the community, the Library also sponsors ten
monthly book talks. In November 1995, the Holocaust
Memorial Committee of Stamford conveyed their library
to the jewish Historical Society, endowing the Society,
not only with a first rate collection of judaica, but also
with a comprehensive collection of Holocaust literature,
supplemented over the years by selected authors, some
of whom have been our guest speakers.
Albanian Ambassador Ferit Ho xha with
Eva Weller, Jim Benjamin & Ilana De L aney
The educational outreach of the jHS over many years has
been its popular monthly programs. Individual speakers and
group presentations help engage the wider community in
historically interesting topics that are newsworthy, political
and cultural. On its own or in collaboration with other
local organizations, the Society typically draws 100 people
or more. Trips to places of historic jewish interest along
with these free programs, lectures and events bring
to members and their guests a global jewish prospective,
enhancing our understanding of the past, the present, and
preparing us to face the future.
Conversation with visiting Tzahal Shalom soldier
�THE JEWISH HISTORICAL SOCIETY TODAY
It's been two years since the last jHS's Heritage Award event, our major fundraiser held every other year. Funds raised
primarily through event program ads, make it possible to provide our traditional services and make significant upgrades
within jHS.
I am pleased to say that we have now grown to well over 400 members with the highest number of life members and
sustaining members the Society has ever enjoyed. Contributions throughout the year often acknowledge family
milestones and supplement our membership dues. A few months ago, through the estate planning of Stamford icon,
Isadore Mackler, the Society received a bequest to help secure our future. We are most grateful for Mr. Mackler's
generosity and foresight. As an all-volunteer organization, financial contributions go directly to services and upgrades,
while other dedicated volunteers give thousands of hours to jHS in time and talent.
Thanks to our executive team and board we have been actively engaged in a var iety of ways to improve our traditional
areas of concentration and try new growth initiatives. We have purposefully broadened the geographic reach to more
towns in our region through collaborations and partnerships with new organizations. For the first time in our history, JHS
was invited to present programs at the Greenwich Historical Society (GHS); the first, a presentation by jHS founder and
historian, Irwin Miller and the second , to co-sponsor their program for Greenwich ReadsTogether, featuring a panel
discussion led by Agnes Vertes, President, Child Holocaust Survivors of Connecticut and jHS board member. In addition,
jHS co-sponsored a program at the New Canaan Library and, new this year, a New Canaan High School teacher
training, co-sponsored with the Holocaust Education Center in Westchester.
We continue to develop new offerings to better serve the community, such as a lending library of Jewish themed films,
available soon in the JHS Library. We have been strengthening our relationship with Stamford organizations, as well,
such as the JCC and United Jewish Federation 's Bureau of Jewish Learning. To reach new audiences, several wellattended afternoon programs were held. These partnerships enable us together to bring outstanding speakers, programs
and workshops to the community.
With the generous support of the Freedman family, we are enjoying our new Archives space, which makes it possible to
share our holdings with researchers, offer workshops and hold meetings, all while surrounded by a sampling of our
significant photography collection. We invite you to visit and see how we can assist you and your organization.
Throughout these two productive years, the officers, board and numerous volunteers have extended our traditional
offerings and succeeded with new initiatives. Now, we are well positioned to look ahead with the formation of our neW
visioning committee - jHS 2020 Task Force - initiated last year to develop a strategic plan for the next decade.
Thank you to all who worked with us, supported the JHS and brought us to today's milestone Heritage Award Event
honori ng the Lowenthals.
I
Eva Weller, President
------------------~
�JHS 2020 TASK FORCE VISION
Our 25th anniversary marked a milestone in the evolution of the jewish Historical Society, so our present leadership
took stock of where we were and asked:
(1) What do we need to do to perpetuate and continue all our work and grow the Society's impact on the community?
(2) How can we improve our services and acquire all necessary supportive resources?
President Eva Weller, initiated the jHS 2020 Task Force in the spring of 2010 for the purpose of taking a clear 20/20
look at present conditions, while also looking to have a vision for the end of the decade, the year 2020. As a result, we
are not only looking ahead ten years, but seek to anticipate our needs, plan strategically to better serve our community
and membership and develop a year-to-year plan that will succeed.
jHS Past President, Fred Golove is spearheading the initiative. Other task force members include the current President
and Past Presidents Gail G. Trell and Maggie Levy, along with two jHS member consultants, Saul Cohen, an
internationally respected professional community planner and jim Samuels, a successful senior business executive
with experience in planning, structuring and running organizations.
The Task Force's recommendations will be presented to the jHS Board and brought to the membership at the Society's
Annual Meeting later this month. The following captures some significant considerations regarding the jHS Vision for
2020, worded to describe the jHS in 2020. We expect jHS 2011-2012 to be another year of advancement toward our
2020 vision:
(1)
The Society's overarching responsibility is to find, learn and perpetuate our local jewish history and heritage,
dedicated especially to ensuring that our records and stories exist for future generations.
(2)
The Society's purpose is to provide expertise and educate, so that jewish heritage and history are important and
a source of pride to people, institutions and communities.
(3)
The Society's target audience is multi-generational. .. from youth through families to seniors, providing learning
and participation opportunities.
(4)
The Society uses the most modern methods and tools, making it easy for the broadest audience to access and
use our collections, which are universally accessible 24/7 using technology.
(5)
The Society continues to be a largely volunteer organization. It has dedicated paid staff to involve, lead, train
and support volunteers and has the necessary supportive organization and resources.
(6)
The Society has a strong presence in the region and shares its knowledge and help where it is needed,
inclUding facilitating other organizations' jewish heritage work. It enjoys strong affiliations, collaborations and
partnerships with other community organizations which gives the Society even greater visibility as an important
resource for the entire community.
�-'
MONTHLY PROGRAMS
Stimulating, enlightening, thought-provoking and entertaining, jHS programs cover the spectrum of important
issues to our community and nation . The overall approach to each year's well researched programming for the
community is to ensure a balance of historical, newsworthy, political and cultural topics for the series.
Throughout the year, we engage outstanding speakers from across the region and
beyond. Programs are usually offered once a month on Sundays and held in
synagogues, JCC, or other locations where we are invited guests and continue to
be a popular and integral part of the jHS outreach to the community. Programs
are free and open to the whole community with light refreshments served.
Shirley Kruchkow, Greeter
at a monthly program
Although most of our programs are held in Stamford, each year we hold several
presentations in other town s. For example, this year, programs were held in
Greenwi ch at the Greenwich Hi storical Society - a first for the jHS - New
Canaan Library and Templ e Shalom, Norwalk. Our list of collaborations
continues to grow as we serve the communities in Lower Fairfield County: Harry
Bennett Branch of Ferguson Library, jCCfTzahal Shalom, UjF/Bureau of jewish
Education & Tapestry, Atria, Temple Sinai , Temple Beth EI, Agudath Sholom and
Chabad of Stamford.
Programs this past year covered a wide range of topics illustrating our jewish Heritage with music, both cl assical
and rock n' roll, the jewish role in comedy and America's we stward movement and contemporary topics, such as,
finance with a look at frugality, science about the latest research in jewish genetics , and so mu ch more. Each year,
we make time to commemorate the Holocaust with special programming, this year partnering with the Child
Holocaust Survivors. Successful partnering w ith the BjE brought the Albanian Ambassador to the United Nations to
our community and JCC.
A sampling of jHS programs includes:
IIN ew Insights on Wandering lewish GenesII w ith Dr. Miryam Wahrman
" Caribbean lewsl Progress -An Alternative Version of Pilgrim IS Progress with historian/author Harry A. Ezratty, Esq.
II A Slice of American lewish Life: Fairfield County 1654-1986 1/ with JHS Hi storian Irwin Mill er -Greenwi ch Hi stori cal Society
IIH idden Children of the Holocaust ll w ith AgnesVertes, President Holo caust Child Survivors of CT
In add itio n to our general p rog rams, JHS also offe red tw o targeted wo rksho ps th is past year - /I Digging an d D elving - Who ls
on M y Family Tree?" on how to research famil y genealogy; and, "vvtiting an Ethi cal W iWI wi th the UJF' s Bureau of Jewi sh
Education, explorin g -ways to sha re personal va lues w it h fam ily and friends.
_______________-.-------1
�THE HARRY ROSENBAUMJHS JUDAICA LIBRARY
The Harry Rosenbaum jHS Iudaica Library at the jCC is a free lending library whose purpose
is to encourage reading, while strengthening interest in and commitment to judaism. The Library serves the
jewish Community and public with historical, literary and current information about judaism and the
jewish people.
The Library's collection numbers more than 3,000 books , including sections on fiction, history,
a Holocaust collection, genealogy, children 's and young adult literature, holidays, Israel,
" How -to" books, magazines and the Encyclopedia Iudaica.
The catalog of the ludaica Library is accessible to the entire
community through the Ferguson Library website
(www.fergusonlibrary.org)
Looking ahead, there will be a selection of DVD's added to our
shelves for circulation.
Maggi e L evy & Dr. L eah Tillman in the Library
...
'
BOOK TALKS
Books and talk are a splendid combination," says Barbara Rosett, long time organizer of our lecture series.
"Put them together with the people of the book and you have the jHS long running Book Talks program ."
Monthly from October to May, usually on a Wednesday morning, members of jHS and guests come
together to hear and talk about a book with Judaic interest, presented by a volunteer reviewer from the
community. Whether led by a professor, author, rabbi or community leader, the group gathers to learn
about the book, author and theme with a Judaic content. All titles
presented are available for borrowing from The Harry Rosenbaum
jHS Iudaica Library and the Ferguson Library, as well as neighboring
libraries. The program is open to the public without charge.
The usual location for Book Talks is the jCC, but other local venues
have been used. Details for each talk are made available through
the New jewish Voice and flyers at the jCC, along with mailers to
j HS members.
Plans are beginning for next season 2011-2012. Will you be there?
Ellie Scher in troduci ng Marilyn Schwartz at Book Talks
---------------------- '.
�. .' -------------------- ea, - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - JHS ARCHIVES
Even from very modest beginnings in a closet at the JCC, the jHS Archives has held the community's
character and makeup. Currently the holdings include photos, oral histories, documents, books, family
trees, organizational records, maps, cemetery records, correspondence and objects - a wealth of
information for the casual or professional researcher!
In june of 201 0, the jHS opened the doors of the latest location of the Archives to the public. When we
were approached by our landlord about the move, most of the archives workers had that sinking feeling that
accompanies a recurrent interruption. However, it became apparent that this was not only inevitable, but
quite a blessing as well. We had, once again, outgrown our space and there were problems for our older
workers when, on rare occasion, the elevator didn't work or when the parking spaces were all occupied.
When we moved into the rear of 990 Hope, we took the opportunity to rearrange some of the organization
of the archives, but also had wonderful help in planning efficient use of the space and new equipment
needed to use it well. Without the planning and forethought of Mary Fowler, we wouldn't have been able to
do this as well or in a timely fashion. She provided us with professional drawings and suggestions for
lighting, furniture and work areas. We have some new furniture, new carpeting, more shelving,
a coordinated look and better lighting. Little did we know that we would also have a new water heater,
a new air-conditioning system, a new heater and a very secure environment, all within the year. Our
landlord, Richard Freedman, has been extremely generous and we truly appreciate the wonderful space.
Our new arrangement allows us to have one room for the Norwalk collection and our research books,
others for office space, storage, work space and a large open area for the records, articles and ephemera
which preserve the jewish presence in Stamford and surrounding towns. The space functions well for
committee work and small groups. It also worked very well when Andree Brooks conducted a workshop on
genealogy, attracting a room of 30 people!
One object that doesn't reside in the archives is a numbered copy of the Szyk Haggadah. The famed
illustrated Haggadah of Arthur Szyk, edited by Cecil Roth, is displayed in a special acrylic case. Once
a year it is removed from the safe deposit box and displayed for the community to share. This year it was
displayed at the Harry Rosenbaum jHS judaica Library along with other copies that could be handled.
We all enjoy sharing this treasure!
�ON THE MOVE
Archives Locations Throughout the Years
We also purchased and started recording our
holdings with new software - PastPerfect. This
database is widely used by museums and historical
societies. It will allow us to pinpoint information
• for researchers and eventually share the knowledge
of those holdings with others.
1985 - 1990
Closet - 1035 Newfield Avenue
Second floor ofJCC - 6 square feet
1990 - 1995
"Kitchen" Space
Second floor ofJCC - 75 square feet
We continue to receive family records, books,
articles, organizational records, pictures, and the
pieces of history on which we thrive. We continue
to field questions about the people who lived in
Stamford and the vicinity, the oral histories we have
collected, the cemetery records and what has shaped
our communities. And, we expect to continue
preserving our precious collections for your children
and grandchildren, to come.
1995 - Present
Display materials for Exhibit Case at JCC
24 square feet
1995 - 2000
1072 Hope Street
Second floor walk up - 200 square feet
2000 - 2005
III Prospect Street
2nd floor - 400 square feet
2005 - 2009
800 Summer Street - Suite 519
5th floor - 360 square feet
2009 - Present
990 Hope Street, Rear
Behind State Cinema - 1,200 square feet
Entrance to our new facility via Northill Street, Stamford
I'---..- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
"Our heartfelt thanks go out to theFreedman family for their
support toward our archives space.
With their assistance and your paid dues, we now have a
wonderfulspace to house our holdings. "
~
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�...... _ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
ORAL HISTORY
A cornerstone of the jewish Historical Society mission is preserving the history of our co mm unity. Since
1983 the jHS team has been co ll ecting personal interviews from a cross section of jews who have lived
in Lower Fairfield County for many years. This archived collection of personal histories, first recorded
on audio tape and for the last two years as video, already contains more than 75 video interviews,
illustrating rich individual life experiences that reveal much about the diverse aspects of our community.
Some were born here; others moved here from places near and far. Some have lived here their entire
lives . Some are ove r 90 years old and others are in their early sixties. Our history gains depth from their
insights in this w ide-ranging collection and the archive holds a significant legacy for the future.
While many people already have been interviewed and their histori es captured, more candidates are on
the waiting list. jHS members and others in the community are asked to recommend individuals to be
interviewed, especially those with interesting stories. The Society practice is to keep an archival copy
of the interview and to also provide a copy to the narrator to share with his or her family. Couples have
also been interviewed together.
Video interviews are conducted by teams of two volunteers, trained to intervi ew and run the camera.
The interviewer has obtained from each interview subject an outline to guide the questions. Interviews
typically range from 30 to 60 minutes. Volunteers have found interviewing to be personally rewarding.
Sometimes we learn more about a person we already know. Always, we learn more about some aspects
of the history of our community.
If this sounds appealing to you , please volunteer to join the O ral History group. You will be provided any
needed trainin g and will be set to start a new adventure!
Some who have shared their life stories...
Judy
Altmann
Holocaust
Survivor
H e rber t
Ashe
Entrepreneur
Abe
Josephson
Merchant
& Realtor
Minerva
Kweskin
Community
Volunt eer
. ._ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -- -
Sylvia
Plotkin
Humanitarian
J ack
Steinberg
Publisher
Murph
Weingrad
Educator
------------------~
�r
ea, - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ,
JHS TRAVEUNG 'EXHIBIT
A Slice of American Jewish Life
Fairfield County 1654-1986
Set in the context of a timeline of national events, this exhibit
reflecting Jewish life in America tells the story of a proud
community that grew from a scattered few to a thriving many.
More than 200 years after the first Jewish settlement in New
Amsterdam the Jewish community finally formed a congregation in
Fairfield County, Connecticut. Yet, the transient presence of the
first Jews slowly changed to set roots and grow strong in Fairfield
County. Meet some early Jewish settlers, community founders
and some Fairfield County's "firsts" illustrated in the exhibit.
The Jewish Historical Society of Lower Fairfield County continues its promise - to benefit the Jewish
community now and assure future generations will not forget our past. This exhibit was gleaned from
the Society's photo archive collection and supplemented with personal collections . It has already
reached a variety of venues in the region such as schools, universities, government buildings,
synagogues, community centers, and the Greenwich Historical Society's Education Center.
JHS EXHIBIT SHOWCASE AT THEJCC
An exhibit case with an outstanding collection from the
Society's Archives is on display immediately upon
entering the Jewish Community Center. With the JHS
Archives held in another location, the Society brings
holdings to the community at large. Every few months,
the theme changes - wedding photos, family businesses,
sports, theater, synagogues, holiday moments, collection
of Haggadahs and historical documents. The exhibit case
is an important exposure for the valuable, exclusive and
interesting items from our growing Archives.
L
O ral Hi sto ry & Arc h ives photos o n displ ay
at the JHS Sh owcase at th e J CC
_
"
---------------------"
�. .- -------------------- ea,
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THE JHS PAST PRESIDENTS
The Leadership That Has Made A Difference
1983 - 1988
1988 - 1990
1990 - 1993
Irwin J. Miller
Founding President
Lester Sharlach
George J. Goldberg
1997 - 2000
2000 - 2002
2002 - 2005
2005 - 2009
2008 - Present
Arnold Yelin
Maggie Levy
Gail G. Trell
Eva Weller
f
David Kweskin
1993 - 1994
Julian
Reitm~n
1994-1997
Fred S. Golove
AN OPEN INVITATION TO JOIN JHS
This is an open invitation to join your friends and neighbors in the Society and learn more about the
achievements of jewish communities in lower Fairfield County, as well as their contributions to the
progress of all communities in the region. The educational opportunities offered through our
programming, archival resources, library holdings and collaborations with community institutions and
organizations is the foundation for our outreach.
Be part of our efforts to build bridges between the past and present for the future.
• Email us at jhslfcwgmail .corn
• Call us at 203-321-1373 x 150,
leave your name and number
• Pick up a brochure at:
The jHS judaica Library at the JCC
1035 Newfield Avenue , Stamford , CT
• Mail desired membership to jHS
P.O. Box 16918, Stamford, CT 06905-8901
Student
$5
Sustaining
Single
$20
Corporate
Household
$36
Life Member
Patron
$150
$100
$100
$400
....- ------------------- ea, ---------------------
�---
THE JHS HERITAGE AWARD & PAST RECIPIENTS
The JHS Heritage Award, our highest honor, was created in 1999 to acknowledge those persons of unique and
significant accomplishment, earned over many years of devoted service to our Jewish community. In particular,
we seek to honor members of our community who have distinguished themselves through service that advances
our Jewish heritage.
The Award celebration is an opportunity for the wider community to learn more about the Jewish Historical Society
andjoin us to celebrate by recognizing those who, through their depth of dedicated commitment, strengthen our
community and heritage.
PREVIOUS HONOREES
1999
Marcia Lieberman
2005
Mineroa Kweskin and David Kweskin
2001
Sheila and Harry Romanowitz
2007
Sara Walker, posthumously
2003
Gail G. and Stephen Trell
2009
Jacob 'Jack " Steinberg and in memory of Claire Steinberg
�..." - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
OUR VOLUNTEERS
Volunteers are the heart of any non-profit organization. However, volunteers are our ENTIRE organization ...
JHS is an all-volunteer Society. Thank you to those of you listed here (and excuse any inadvertent omissions).
Your time and efforts establish the foundation of this organization which enriches the community.
Archives Committee
Linda Baulsir
Evelyn Fowler
Joan Kranz
Bernie Levy
Maggie Levy
Judy Lowenstein
Irwin Miller, Historian
Vivian Miller, Archives Emerita
Eileen H. Rosner
Hank Silverstein
Meryl Silverstein
Archives Facility Volunteers
Kenny Sachs
Lester Sharlach
Jack Skydel
Oral History Committee
Lee Fanwick
Marion Gans
Elissa Kaplan
Bernie Levy
Dr. Hersh W. Libo
Frieda Reitman
Julian Reitman
Barbara Rosenberg
Marcie Schoenfeld
Lester Sharlach
Brenda Smith
Gail G. Trell
Agnes Vertes
*Also Member of Library Committee
"
Library Committee
Eleanor Bolinsky
Frieda Knopf (Book Talks)
Joan Kranz (Book Talks)
Barbara Rosett (Book Talks)
Ellie Scher (Book Talks)
Jack Stiassny
Library Volunteers
Manette Berns
Marge Bernstein
Sam Bernstein
Hal Corwin
Rhea Davison
Lee Fanwick
Ziporah Freedberg
Laura Gold
Juli Harris
Bernie Levy*
Maggie Levy*
Gail Loonin
Barbara Ostroff
Olga Paredes
Eileen H. Rosner*
Patty Samuels*
Naomi Schreiber
Carol Schwartz
Edythe Siegel
AlIa Sklover
Jack Skydel
Mary Toppo
Gail G. Trell*
Penny Wolff*
.._ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Library Memoriam
Robert Bonoff
Arthur Finchler
Ed Golove
Dr. Harry Levine
Holocaust Curriculum Team
Maggie ·Levy
'Marcie Schoenfeld
Leah Tillman
Eva Weller
Programs
Marilyn Bonoff z'l
Ernest Fanwick
Lee Fanwick
Juli Harris
Ellen Sue Hattenbach
Joan Kranz
Shirley Kruchkow
Bernie Levy
Maggie Levy
Dr. Hersh Libo
Irwin Miller
Edith Neidle
Barbara Rosenberg
Marcie Schoenfeld
Lester Sharlach
Jack Skydel
Rhoda Steiger
Elisabeth Steinberg
Dr. Leah Tillman
Gail G. Trell
Agnes Vertes
Eva Weller
�---
2011 JHS HERITAGE AWARD COMMITTEE
Gail G. Trell, Coordinator
Eva Weller, Program/ Journal/ Presentation & Proclamations
Jim Samuels, Reservations & Ads
Hillary Weinroth, Designer Invitations & Journal
Fred S. Golove, Journal & Program
Edith Neidle, PR & Community Outreach
Maggie Levy, Journal & Gifts
Fran Pribish, Catering Liaison
Terri Ann Lowenthal, Family Liaison
Barbara Trow, Floral Arranging & Decor
Rabbi Emily Korzenik • Dr. lIana De Laney
Honorary Chairpersons
Meg Abakas, Family Liaison
Fred Dulaney, PR
luli Harris, Media
Bernie Levy, Communications
Marie Orsini Rosen, Fellowship Coordinator
Marcie Schoenfeld, Oral History
Lester Sharlach, Exhibit
Meryl Silverstein, Invitations
Louise Stern, Communications
RonaSchenkerman Strakosch, Poet
ArnoldYelin, Photography
Special Appreciation
Hay Photographers
Robert Yelin
Joyce DiCamillo Trio
Joyce DiCamillo, Jaron Plowden, Joe Sinaguglia
Graphic Designer
Hillary Weinroth
Musicians
Sal Princiotti andguest
Lexi Bodick, Brian Bodick, Sarah Fountain,
Lauren Mascioli, Elsie Colbert, Greg Edelston
Acme Sign Co.
Signs, Posters
Acknowledgntent
High Ridge Printing & Copy Center
Invitations & Journal
Beth Torah Kosher Caterers
Hors d'oueroes & Desserts
Smith Party Rentals
Special Tables
BevMax Wine and Liquor
Spirits
Temple Beth EI
Steve Lander
Exquisite Environments
Plants & Floral Arrangements
�-
...,.".0- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
1995 Cornell Award
(Mort Lowenthal Top Left)
2006 Hillel Students building after Katrina escorted by Mort Lowenthal
__- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
".,- -
-----------------------------
�---
Ele and Mort
Two trees '
deeply rooted
limbs now entwined.
Winds whispers carry
dreams of tomorrow
to plant in rich soil
under sheltering branches.
Rustling leaves,
changing with time,
filter the sun's heat
the snowflakes' chill.
When storms' fury tightens
the branches reaching
out, ever sway,
protecting the growth below.
Buds of promise, nurtured
by soil rich
with the trees' essence
blossom into life's
colorful reality.
Two trees, limbs entwined,
changed life's landscape.
Rona D. Schenkerman
June 2011
for the Jewish Historical Society
Heritage Award
© 2011
�........
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�The Fellowship tor Jewish Learning salutes two at our own leaders and members --
ELE AND MORT LOWENTHAL
Jewish Historical Societ.Y
2011 Heritage Award Honorees
Ele and Mort, you are belovedmembers ofthe Fellowship
and the conscience ofour communitg.
MazelTov!
The Fellowship tor Jewish Learning
Rabbi Eric H. Hottman, Spiritual Leader
philip Rosen and Marie Orsini Rosen, Co-Presidents
PO Box 17291, Stamtord, CT 06907
www.tellowshipto~ewishlearning.org
•
into@tellowshipto~ewishlearning.org
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ea, - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
�.,.i_'
, -------------
We recognize
a most deserving couple
Ele and Mort Lowenthal
Your incredible dedication and
extensive service have helped a
wide spectrum of our community
You are an example for all
to admire and emulate
Kerrin and Stephne Behrend
' ,
_
-
�----
.....
From Strength to Strength
and
From History to Heritage!
With every best wish to
Ele and Mort
and toJHS
Mimi and Saul Cohen
�"One who saves a single life is counted as ifone has saved the entire world. '"
- Talmud
With Profound Gratitude
to
Ele and Mort Lowenthal
(or their ever present support
ofJewish life in our community and throughout the world
Rabbi & Mrs. Mark S. Golub
Watch Shalom TV, America's National Jewish Television Network, FreeVideo-On-Demand, Cablevisions Channel 502
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ~ - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ------:l
LIBERATION PROGRAMS, INC.
IS PROUD TO SALUTE
ELE AND MORT
FOR THEIR FINE WORK AND
CONTRIBUTIONS
TO OUR COMMUNITY!
�Congratulations, Ele and Mort!
With Love, Midge, Alison, Nancy and Families
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ea,
----------------~-'
Ele & Mort
We salute you and our
, Jewish Historical Society
Sheila & Hesh
HARRY R
�~
THE AMERICAN
/!~v
CONNECTION®
"Celebrating the contributionsofAmerica's immigrant and ethniccommunities and thecommon bond that unites us."
~
fl .
SALUTES THE LOWENTHALS FOR THEIR ENDURING
COMMITMENT TO EDUCATION AND UNDERSTANDING
Twelve years ago Claire and Jacob (Jack) Steinberg established, under a
charitable trust, The American Connection to promote better relations
among individuals and ethnic groups. Led by Director, Eva Weller, their
vision continues through programs and initiatives in schools, libraries,
universities and community centers:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
The Student Ambassador Initiative: A summer leadership and skills building curriculum.
Award for Excellence: The American Connection publicly recognizes outstanding educators.
The Immigration Project: Students produce a booklet from their interviews with immigrants.
Our Children Honor America Contest: Student essays - "What Being an American Means ."
The New American, Island ofHope, Right to Dream, and Through the Eyes ofa
Friend: Multi-media presentations, with a live actor, on themes about civil rights and immigration.
Repository of Books: instructional materials to schools on the subject of immigration.
Film & Moderated Discussions: Programs for adult and student audiences with discussions led
by trained facilitators on various topics , such as immigration, race and prejudice.
310 Wire MillRoad' Stamford, Connecticut· 06903 ' Tel: (203) 329-0452' Email: TheAmericanConnection@gmail.com
Thank you
Ele and Mort
for all the good that you have done
and will continue to do
With admiration,
Brenda & Bruce Smith
..'.
�Congratulations to a couple
truly deserving
of this award
Betty and Dan Roberts
Mort & Ele
We salute you for your total commitment
to Jewish education.
Your vision is our future!
David and Lorraine Kweskin
�Ele and Mort
Yasher Koach
Beverly & David Stein
Mort & Ele
In appreciation
for all you have done
Eileen H. Rosner
�Best Wishes
From
The Fanwick Family
"We cannot live for ourselves alone. Our lives are connected
by a thousand invisible threads, and along these sympathetic fibers,
our actions run as causes and return to us as results. "
-Herman Melville
Eleanor and Mort have woven many a community together
by their dedication, enthusiasm, and vision.
We are grateful and inspired by all that you do.
Susan Birke Fiedler and Paul Fiedler
�To our dear friends
Mort and Ele
You inspire us with your commitment and passion to our community.
You have enriched our community and our lives in countless ways.
We cannot thank you enough!
With love and admiration,
Shari Goodstein and Craig Lambert
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ea, - - - - - - - - - - - - - -....
"On Three Things the World is Built:
Torah, Service and Loving Kindness"
-Pirke Avot
Meryl & Hank Silverstein
�Mazel Tov
Eleanor and Mort Lowenthal
on this much deserved honor
Gayle & Howard Rothman
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - ea, - - - - - - - - - - - - - Sincere Congratulations
to
Eleanor and Mort Lowenthal
for their support
to Lower Fairfield County
and beyond
for all Jewish and Israeli endeavors
Kol Havcovod
Joan and Irwin Hochberg
�*
The Board of Trustees, Faculty and Students of
the Jewish High School of Connecticut
Jtl~s~
OF
CONNECTICUT
celebrate
Eleanor and Mort Lowenthal
for their leadership and dedication to the Jewish future
Apply online at wwwJhsct.orgjadmissionsjapply-online.
For more information and to schedule a personal visit please contact us at 203.275.8448
or admissions@jhsct.org
27 J0 Park Avenue
* Bridgeport CT 06604
'...--- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - ea,
----------------- ~
Mazel Tov
to
Eleanor and Mort Lowenthal
on receiving the 2011 Heritage Award
of the Jewish Historical Society of
Lower Fairfield County.
***********
Thank you for all you do to preserve and enhance theJewish cause everywhere.
The Kriftcher Fam i Iy
Jeannie & Brian
Hannah, Charlotte & Sophie
�We congratulate
the Jewish Historical Society of
Lower Fairfield County on their
wisdom in honoring
Eleanor and Mort Lowenthal
These individuals touch and enrich
our lives and souls everyday
through their work in our
community.
What an inspiring legacy
Maggie & Bernie Levy
To Mort and Ele
Congratulations to both of you
for continued diverse display of energy
and caring for your fellow Jew and community
Milt and Norma Mann
�To Mort and Eleanor
A well deserved recognition
for all the volunteer work
they continue to do for the community
Ron and Grecia Gross
Congratulations to
two dedicated and wonderful
community leaders
Harley and Stephen Osman
�To Ele and Mort Lowenthal
You show us HUMANIlY
You work in HARMONY
You celebrate our HERITAGE
Thank you for all you have done, are doing and
will continue to do for the Jewish Community,JHS and beyond
Gail G. and Stephen Trell
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - ea, - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
We are so very grateful for the Lowenthals.
'. No't only for what they have done,
Not only for who they are,
But for what they have encouraged us to become.
Eva & Chad Weller and Family
�...
Mort & Ele
Congratulations to a wonderful couple.
We wish you all the best.
Alan and Linda Nielsen
What a joy to celebrate
your incredible legacy
of commitment - to each other,
to your family,
and to your community!
With our love,
loyce DiCamillo
Malcolm Hoffmeister
'
Congratulations
and
Best Wishes
Dr. and Mrs. Hersh Libo
�Congratulations
Ele & Mort!
You are so deserving
of this award!
All the best,
Louise Stern
Thank you
for your contributions
to our community
Julian & Frieda Reitman
Congratulations
Ele & Mort
We salute
Eleanor & Mort Lowenthal
Your continued contributions
and support of
the Jewish Community
is an inspiration to us all
and thank them
for their commitment
to our community
Marsha Colten & Robert Cohen
With all good wishes
Carol & Peter Lilienthal
�../
All Best Wishes
to
Ele and Mort
Stamford !
Young
Artists
With special appreciation
of your dedication in so many
diverse areas
The Stamford Young Artists
Philharmonic Family
is proud to congratu late
Dr. William Miller
Founder and Honorary Chairman
The World Affairs Forum
ECe and Mort LowentliaC
for their ongoing devotion of time,
talentand treasure to our community!
MauCTov!
Ele and Mort
We and our offspring,
including generations yet unborn,
are beneficiaries of so much that you do
without our even knowing. But we now learn.
We appreciate your huge, tireless
and humble efforts
and thank you
from the bottoms of our hearts.
With great admiration,
respect and love
for all you have done
to make this a strong
and vibrant community
"Nothing is so potent as the silent influence
of a good example. "
..James Kent
Sandy and Fred Golove
Debra and John Hertz
�Few have dedicated their lives
to so many...
Thank you both,
Patty & Jim Samuels
l('j:,'j,n c""n
,n",~
:J1n
You are two gems
for our Jewish Community
and beyond...
Congratulations
Edith Samers and Edward Smith
Aunt Ele and Uncle Mort
RABBI ERIC H. HOFFMAN
THE F ELLOWSHIP FOR]EVV1SH LEARNING
STAMFORD, CONNECTIC UT
Mazel Tov!
T ELEI' HONE
(203 ) 358-0869
E-NV\IL
RAVELlAHU@OPTONLlNE.NET
Debbie, Jeff and Melissa
Mazel Tov
Ele & Mort
Mazel Tov
to
Mort & Ele Lowenthal
on this well-deserved honor
We wish you all the best!
Meryl & David Gordon
Nancy & Gadi Mimoun
�ea., - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - With Sincere Congratulations
Dr. and Mrs. Bert Ballin
Wendy and Joel Brest
Juliet S. Cassone
Jeanette and Harold Fishkow
Debby and Jack Goldberg
Rabbi Edward Harwitz
Ellen Sue Hattenbach
Milton Hollander
Ira and Ronny Kaplan
Steve Karp
Carol Levine
Marek and Pamela Lewanda
Susan and Len Mark
Alan and Melissa Mathis
Philip and Jane Molstre
Ms. Edith Neidle
Dr. Anne S. Peskin
Paul and Rhea Plotnick
Ms. Lois PontBriant
Fran and David Pribish
ML and Mrs. Salvatore Princiotti
Hazzan Sidney and Sandy Rabinowitz
Phil Rosen and Marie Orsini Rosen
Ms. Marcie Schoenfeld
Jack Skydel and Barbara Rosenberg
Arnold and Rhoda Steiger
Lutitia Tibbetts
Diana L. Washington
Vivien and Arthur White
--------------- ea., ----------------
The Lowenthals dedicated their lives.. . without the accompanyingfanfare.. . to humanitarian causes,
that benefited many people and our community as a whole. Hats off to Eleanor and Mort and toJHS.
Rabbi Joseph Ehrenkranz, Rabbi Emeritus, Congregation Agudath Sholom
.' - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
��
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Tell Your Story
Subject
The topic of the resource
Oral history
Stamford (Conn.)
Description
An account of the resource
Collection of oral histories collected during the Ferguson Library's <em>Tell Your Story</em> program. Generously funded by a grant from the <a href="https://www.neh.gov/">National Endowment for the Humanities</a>.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
The Ferguson Library
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
The Ferguson Library
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
FL.tellyourstory
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Stamford (Conn.)
Twentieth century
Twenty-first century
Contributor
An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource
Skornia, Frank J., interviewer
Text
A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text.
Original Format
The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data
Paper booklet
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Humanity... Harmony... Heritage: 2011 JHS Heritage Award booklet for Mort and Eleanor Lowenthal
Subject
The topic of the resource
Stamford (Conn.)
Jewish Historical Society of Lower Fairfield County
Lowenthal, Mort
Lowenthal, Eleanor
Award presentations
Description
An account of the resource
Booklet for the 2011 JHS Heritage Award presented to Mort and Eleanor Lowenthal from the Jewish Historical Society of Lower Fairfield County. The award was presented on June 12, 2011 at the Temple Beth El in Stamford, Connecticut. The booklet contains information regarding the award presentation as well as photos and documents recognizing the life and service of the Lowenthals.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
Jewish Historical Society of Lower Fairfield County
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
The Ferguson Library
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2011-06-12
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
text/pdf
Language
A language of the resource
English
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Text
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
FL.tellyourstory.ml.003
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Stamford (Conn.)
Twentieth century
-
https://www.fergusonlibraryarchive.org/files/original/449a989006e9fff21d62b3973c846dd6.pdf
2cddf7b17387c5043801a40a004ae650
PDF Text
Text
�JHS's celebratory theme -- Humenity, Hermony.
Heritage -- captures the essence of Eleanor and
Mort Lowenthal 's numerous contribution s to the
fabric of life in our area, the Cit y of Stamford
and to the local and national Jewish Community.
They have lived in Stamford for more than 50
years, and they have devoted their energies to the
betterment of our community, working to foster
opportunity, education, and achievement.
" Ele" has spent countless hours working with the
youth of our area. Over the past 40 years, she has
tutored in schools, and for the " I Have a Dream "
prog ram. She has been a driving force,behind
the scenes, for the Stamford Young Artists
Philharmonic, the youth orchestra for talented young music ians. Ele has served
as board member of the Council of Churches and Synagogues, and the Fellowship
for Jewish Learning.
Mort shares Ele's interest in young people and education . He was founder
and Scoutmaster of Boy Scout Troop 38, the first in Stamford. He drafted the
desegregation plan for the Stamford Public Schools, a model for other communities,
and has been President of the Cornell University Alumni Association and Vice Chair
of the University's Council. Mort is currently a board member of Hillel (national),
Kulanu, the Jewish High School of Connecticut, and the UJF Bureau of Jewish
Education . From his early days in Stamford, Mort has taken an active leadership
role in civic and community affairs, serving as the first Chairman of the Stamford
Human Rights Commission, fo rmer Chairman of the Stamford Police Commission,
and as former Chairman and a 22-year board member of the Yerwood Center.
Additional commitments to the broader Jewish community include service on the
boards of the American Jewish Committee, the Wilstein Institute for Jewish Policy
Studies, and Hebrew College .
The jewish H istorical Society of Lower Fairfield County
cordially invites you to honor
r@~ ~rsHtrnt Z ~
as the recipients of the 2011 jHS Heritage Award
for their dedication to the jewish Community and beyond
Sunday, june 12, 2011 • 3:30 pm
Temple Beth EI, 350 Roxbury Road, Stamford, Connecticut
An afternoon of celebration and appreciation
with hors d'ouerves and music provided by
Stamford Young Artists Philharmonic ·and Joyce DiCamillo Trio
Reception and Displays 3:30 pm • Tributes 4: 15 pm
In spite of a full volunteer calendar, Ele and Mort manage to find time to pursue
thei r personal interests. Both love music and art, and especiall y, the time spent w ith
their grandchildren. Ele's love of ice skating still find s her on the rink six times
a week! She is a wonderful cook who, over 25 years, has regularly prepared hot
meals for Stamford's Pacific House Shelter and the New Covenant House. As for
Mort, he loves railroads and builds steam engines and antique cars as a hobby.
Admission $18 per person
Please return response card before Monday, May 23 , 2011
Proceeds from a commemorative journal will be used for educational programs
Humenity, Harmony, Heritage: The Jewish Historical Society is proud to salute
Eleanor and Mort Lowenthal, w ho have trul y lived our celebratory theme .
For additional information, call (203) 322-4461 to leave a message
�The Lowenthals serve as legendary role models for their commitment
to our community. We are delighted to share their wonderful story.
JHS also looks forward to sharing its' revitalized mission of future
community service, engagement and education for the betterment
of our communities.
fEWISH1-I1STORICAL
SOCIETY
OflOWU
f AIRf lHD CO UNTY
�
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Tell Your Story
Subject
The topic of the resource
Oral history
Stamford (Conn.)
Description
An account of the resource
Collection of oral histories collected during the Ferguson Library's <em>Tell Your Story</em> program. Generously funded by a grant from the <a href="https://www.neh.gov/">National Endowment for the Humanities</a>.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
The Ferguson Library
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
The Ferguson Library
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
FL.tellyourstory
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Stamford (Conn.)
Twentieth century
Twenty-first century
Contributor
An entity responsible for making contributions to the resource
Skornia, Frank J., interviewer
Text
A resource consisting primarily of words for reading. Examples include books, letters, dissertations, poems, newspapers, articles, archives of mailing lists. Note that facsimiles or images of texts are still of the genre Text.
Original Format
The type of object, such as painting, sculpture, paper, photo, and additional data
Paper brochure
Dublin Core
The Dublin Core metadata element set is common to all Omeka records, including items, files, and collections. For more information see, http://dublincore.org/documents/dces/.
Title
A name given to the resource
Humanity... Harmony... Heritage: 2011 JHS Heritage Award brochure for Mort and Eleanor Lowenthal
Subject
The topic of the resource
Stamford (Conn.)
Jewish Historical Society of Lower Fairfield County
Lowenthal, Mort
Lowenthal, Eleanor
Award presentations
Description
An account of the resource
Brochure for the 2011 JHS Heritage Award presented to Mort and Eleanor Lowenthal from the Jewish Historical Society of Lower Fairfield County. The award was presented on June 12, 2011 at the Temple Beth El in Stamford, Connecticut.
Creator
An entity primarily responsible for making the resource
Jewish Historical Society of Lower Fairfield County
Publisher
An entity responsible for making the resource available
The Ferguson Library
Date
A point or period of time associated with an event in the lifecycle of the resource
2011-06-12
Rights
Information about rights held in and over the resource
This Item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this Item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. For other uses you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).
Format
The file format, physical medium, or dimensions of the resource
text/pdf
Language
A language of the resource
English
Type
The nature or genre of the resource
Text
Identifier
An unambiguous reference to the resource within a given context
FL.tellyourstory.ml.002
Coverage
The spatial or temporal topic of the resource, the spatial applicability of the resource, or the jurisdiction under which the resource is relevant
Stamford (Conn.)
Twentieth centtury