Wednesday, October 31, 2012

Annual Kristallnacht Commemoration



The University of Pittsburgh Department of German and
Jewish Studies Program
and the Hillel-Jewish University Center


Present


The Annual Commemoration of
Kristallnacht

(The “Night of Broken Glass” on November 9-10, 1938)

Thursday, November 8, 2012
4:30-5:30pm

Hillel-Jewish University Center
4607 Forbes Avenue


Music by CMU Klezmer Band
Introductory Remarks by Alexander Orbach and Clark Muenzer
Readings by Pitt Students
Video Excerpts from Witnesses and Survivors





Monday, October 29, 2012

Two Nations & Three Religions in Israel and Palestine

I would like to bring to your attention the Galillee Institute's Joint Israeli Palestinian Winter Session "Two Nations & Three Religions in Israel and Palestine", that is scheduled to be held on 27 December, 2012 – 08 January, 2013.
The programme incorporates lectures and study tours, and allows the participants to develop a personal acquaintance with the sites, cultures and peoples that inhabited this region in the past. Together, these experiences contribute to an understanding of the issues which exist today.
For your convenience we have now extended the Early bird registration to 15th November. A limited number of tuition scholarships are still available to qualified candidates.

Students and faculty members who are interested should contact the Programme Director – Mrs. Shiri Salant-Fein e-mail: ssalant@galilcol.ac.il
Our programme is in cooperated with EMUNI and hence the students can benefit credits by handing a paper after concluding the programme.
Kind regards & SHALOM,

Shiri Salant-Fein
Programme Director (web page: http://www.galilcol.ac.il/page.asp?id=344)
International Centre of Middle East and Religious Studies
Galilee Institute
Israel
ssalant@galilcol.ac.il

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Looking for Jewish Learning Opportunities in and around Pittsburgh?

These are not for credit but may be of interest--this is from the Agency for Jewish Learning.

Current Events

Broadcasts from New York’s 92nd Street Y sponsored by Temple Sinai
October 2, November 8, November 28, December 17, and January 16
Experience selections from the 92nd Street Y’s famous lecture series in live broadcast at Temple Sinai. Topics for the year include “Relevant Octogenarians”and “What is Jewish Culture?”
at Temple Sinai, 5505 Forbes Avenue. $15/lecture for the general public.
For more information contact Nicole Mezare at nmezare@templesinaipgh.org or at 412-421-9715 or visit http://www.templesinaipgh.org/92nd-street-y/

Lecture and book talk with Dr. Robert Putnam sponsored by Temple Sinai
Saturday, December 1, 2012. Havdalah service and dessert reception at 7 p.m., lecture at 8 p.m. at Temple Sinai, 5505 Forbes Avenue
Dr. Robert D. Putnam will discuss his recent book, "American Grace; How Religion Unites and Divides Us." Author of "Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community," Dr. Putnam is the Peter and Isabel Malkin Professor of Public Policy at Harvard University, and the preeminent religious sociologist in the United States. Courtesy of the Pamela K. Wiles Fund.
For more information contact Nicole Mezare, nmezare@templesinaipgh.org or 412-421-9715


Hebrew

Read Hebrew America sponsored by Congregation Beth Shalom
October 10, 17, 24; November 7, 14; 7:30 – 9 p.m. at Congregation Beth Shalom
Learn to read Hebrew in just five sessions! Levels I and II offered. With Ruth Fauman-Fichman and Lidush Goldschmidt.
For more information contact Congregation Beth Shalom at 412-421-2288.

Hebrew Classes sponsored by Congregation Emanu-El Israel
Classes generally offered on Mondays or Wednesdays depending on the level, in the late afternoon or early evening.
Congregation Emanu-El Israel will offer Hebrew classes at a variety of levels, taught by Shoshana Halden. For more info call Shoshana Halden, 724-744-0037


Holocaust Studies

The Ethel LeFrak Holocaust Education Conference sponsored by Seton Hill University October 21-23, 2012 at Seton Hill University
Triennial conference on the Holocaust. This year’s theme is “Holocaust Education: Challenges for the Future.” There will be a variety of presenters including Rabbi Yitz Greenberg, Yehudah Bauer (by Video), and Carol Rittner. There will be a registration fee, although Rabbi Yitz Greenberg’s keynote on Sunday October 21 from 7:30-9 PM is free and open to the public
For more info or to register call Wilda Kaylor 724-830-1033


Jewish Community

HOW DO WE KNOW WHAT THEY KNOW? Our Community’s Relationship with Jewish Education in the Future sponsored by Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh & AJL
Monday, December 3, 2012, 7 pm, Jewish Community Center, Robinson Bldg., Squirrel Hill
Part of the series “Conversations for a Jewish Future” with Dr. Amy Sales of the Cohen Center for Modern Jewish Studies at Brandeis University. $10/session advanced registration • $15 at the door. Contact Danielle Kranjec at the Agency for Jewish Learning for more information at 412-521-1101 or dkranjec@ajlpittsburgh.org.

SOCIAL JUSTICE IF NOT NOW, THEN? Our Community’s Relationship with Social Justice in the Future sponsored by Jewish Federation of Greater Pgh & AJL
Wed., March 13, 2013, 7pm Jewish Community Center, Robinson Bldg., Squirrel Hill
Part of the series “Conversations for a Jewish Future” with Rabbi Stephanie Ruskay. $10/session advanced registration • $15 at the door. Contact Danielle Kranjec at the Agency for Jewish Learning for more information at 412-521-1101 or dkranjec@ajlpittsburgh.org.


Jewish Culture

Yiddish Club sponsored by J’Burgh Yiddish Club
Sept. 12, 2012 at 8 p.m.
Sholem aleykhem! The J'Burgh Yiddish Club is for those interested in studying Yiddish and/or celebrating Yiddish culture. Why might you want to join the Yiddish club? To open a whole world of Jewish literature, history, and music to which you formerly had no access. Whatever your reason and no matter your background, seize this opportunity while you can!
If you are interested in the club, contact Jaclyn at jgranick@gmail.com.

Cynthia Ozick and the Jewish Short Story sponsored by Rodef Shalom Congregation
Mondays, October 15-November 19, 7:30-8:30 p.m. at Library at Rodef Shalom
This class will explore, through lively lecture and discussion, the short story of Jewish author and essayist Cynthia Ozick. Instructor Eric Lidji brings his knowledge and love of literature to this class that is sure to inspire and keep you wanting to read and learn more! Free. For more information contact Rabbi Amy Hertz, Director of Lifelong Jewish Learning at 412-621-6566 x130 or hertz@rodefshalom.org


Sing and Study with Dan Nichols sponsored by Rodef Shalom Congregation
Sept.7-9, Nov. 8-10, 2012; Jan. 3-6, March 14-16, April 26-28 2013.
Sing and study with Rodef Shalom Congregation’s Artist-in-Residence Dan Nichols, made possible by the generosity of the Fine Family Foundation. Don’t miss this special opportunity to sing, study, and worship with the acclaimed Jewish musician and composer.
Free. For more information contact Rabbi Amy Hertz, Director of Lifelong Jewish Learning at 412-621-6566 x130 or hertz@rodefshalom.org


Jewish History

The Jews of Spain: Between Convivencia and Intolerance sponsored by Cong. Dor Hadash
Wednesdays October 24, November 7, 14, 21; 7 – 8:30 p.m. at Tree of Life*Or L’Simcha (Robinson Pavillion), 5898 Wilkins Avenue, Pittsburgh 15217
The presence of the Jews in the Iberian Peninsula dates at least as far back as Roman times. In four sessions, we will examine the Jewish presence in the Iberian Peninsula through the Expulsion of 1492 with a focus on the “convivencia” (coexistence) of Jewish with Christians and Muslims throughout this period. With Michal Friedman, Ph.D.
Free, RSVP requested. To RSVP or for more information call 412-422-5158 or email admin@dorhadash.net

Journey Through Jewish History sponsored by Temple Emanuel of South Hills
Beginning November 12, 7:30-8:30 pm, and continues the second Monday of the month thereafter at Temple Emanuel. The Journey begins with Creation as the basis of Jewish historiography and continues from there. With Rabbi Mark Mahler. Free.

Jews in the American Revolution sponsored by Beth Israel Center of the South Hills
Sunday, November 11, 2012, 7:30 PM at Beth Israel Center, 118 Gill Hall Rd., Jefferson Hills. This program will detail the contributions made by the small Jewish population of the colonies to the success of the American Revolution and will be presented by a freelance writer and journalist currently preparing for publication a historical novel based on the experiences of a colonial Jewish family. Teacher: Pamela R. Winnick, freelance journalist and writer.
Cost: Free and open to the public. Contact information to learn more or to RSVP: Beth Israel Center: 412-655-2144 /Shirley Schultz: 412-653-1153


Jewish Mysticism

The Kabbalah of You: A Guide to Unlocking Your Hidden Potential sponsored by Chabad of Pittsburgh. 6 Tuesdays, Oct. 30-Dec. 4, 12:15-1:30 pm Downtown, Grant Bldg., 310 Grant St. Kosher Lunch provided. 6 Wednesdays, Oct. 31-Dec. 5, 7:30-9:00pm, Chabad of Pittsburgh, 6401 Forbes Avenue. Fee: $90, $144 couples. Are you all you can be? How can you unleash the infinite power of your soul within? This course provides a mystical roadmap to living a life of happiness, fulfillment, and self-actualization by revealing how you can thrive and be more than just alive. With Rabbi Yisroel Altein. For http://www.myjli.com or email jli@chabadpgh.com or call 412.421.3561

Jewish Religion

Conservative Judaism Today and in the Future sponsored: Beth Israel Center of the S. Hills
Sunday, October, 28, 2012, 7:30 PM at Beth Israel Center, 118 Gill Hall Rd., Jefferson Hills
A discussion and debate touching on questions concerning Conservative Judaism practices today and changes, controversial and not, which are being discussed for incorporation in the future. Topics may include the concept of patrilineal descent as proof of Judaism and changes in the prayer book. Teacher: Rabbi Alex Greenbaum of Congregation Beth El.
Free and open to the public. For information or to RSVP: Beth Israel Center: 412-655-2144 /Shirley Schultz: 412-653-1153

A Taste of Judaism sponsored by Temple David
Dates and times to be determined. At Temple David, 4415 Northern Pike, Monroeville
A Taste of Judaism…Are You Curious?™ is designed for people who have limited or no Jewish background but are interested in learning about Judaism. Many participants are unaffiliated Jews who don’t feel that they know much about their religion, the adult children of interfaith couples, non-Jews who are interested in learning more about Judaism, and partners in Interfaith relationships. With Rabbi Barbara Symons. No Charge, for more information contact the Temple David office at 412-372-1200



Jewish Text Study

Aliya Workshop sponsored by Congregation Emanu-El Israel
Sunday, September 9, 2012 Noon to 1PM, Congregation Emanu-El Israel, Greensburg
Review of blessings before and after the Torah reading. With Rabbi Sara Perman.
Free. For more info call CEI 724-834-0560

Torah Study sponsored by Congregation Emanu-El Israel
Saturdays, October 13, November17, December 8 at Noon at Congregation Emanu-El Israel
Ongoing monthly look at the Torah; Currently in the Book of Numbers. With Rabbi Sara Perman
Free (includes light Kiddush refreshments). For more info and to RSVP call CEI 724-834-0560

Torah Study sponsored by Temple Emanuel of South Hills
Every Saturday, 9:00 am at Temple Emanuel
Come explore the weekly Torah portion! With Rabbi Mark Mahler. Free

Tehillim (Psalms) and Tangents sponsored by Temple Emanuel of South Hills
Beginning Wednesday, October 17, 10-11 am, and continuing every Wednesday thereafter at Temple Emanuel
Now that we’ve finished reading every word of the Torah, we turn to Psalms. Tehillim is the Bible’s most beautiful book. With Rabbi Mark Mahler. Free

Talmud Study sponsored by Rodef Shalom Congregation
Nov. 2, 9; Jan. 4, 11; March 1, 8; May 3, 10, 17; 12-1 p.m. at Krause Conf. Rm. at Rodef Shalom Join us as we delve into one of our people’s most exciting and living texts! Relevant and applicable texts will be studied. No previous knowledge necessary. Texts will be studied in English. With Rabbi Amy Hertz. Bring your lunch, drinks provided. Free.
For more information contact Rabbi Amy Hertz, Director of Lifelong Jewish Learning at 412-621-6566 x130 or hertz@rodefshalom.org

The Other Talmud: The Yerushalmi sponsored by Temple David
April 26 -April 28, at Temple David, 4415 Northern Pike, Monroeville
Weekend with Scholar-in-Residence Rabbi Judith Z. Abrams, PhD., founder and director of Maqom school for Adult Talmud Study. Rabbi Abrams will conduct adult programs following the Friday evening Shabbat services and Saturday morning Shabbat services. There will also be a program on Saturday afternoon. Exact times to be determined.
COST: There will be no cost for Friday evening or Saturday morning services. Other costs to be determined. For more information, contact the Temple David office –412-372-1200


Jewish Thought

Tanya-Chassidic Philosophy sponsored by Chabad of Pittsburgh
Ongoing, Monday nights 8:30-9:30pm at the Meyer home, 2415 Beechwood Blvd.
Tanya, the fundamental text of Chassidic thought, gives you insight into your inner world and helps you discover new strategies for overcoming obstacles to change and progress. You learn to resolve guilt, conflict, and confusion, and to traverse life’s journey with joy, purpose, and direction. This is a discussion and workshop based class with selected readings from the text of Tanya. With Rabbi Yisroel Altein. No cost; for more info, info@chabadpgh.com, or 412.421.3561

Beth Shalom University sponsored by Congregation Beth Shalom, Squirrel Hill
Monday, Oct. 22; Tuesday, Oct. 30; Monday, Nov. 12 at 7:30-9 p.m. at Cong. Beth Shalom. Beth Shalom University is a series of adult learning opportunities, offered for members and guests, usually on a single theme. Track 1 will feature “Rarely Read Jewish Philosophers” taught by Dr. Mark Staitman. Track 2 will feature“Contemporary Jewish Artists” by various guest presenters including Franklin Toker, Leslie Golomb, and Ben Schachter. Suggested contribution $7/session or $18 for three sessions. Contact Congregation Beth Shalom at 412-421-2288 for more information or visit www.bethshalompgh.org

Jewish Women’s Studies

Women of the Bible sponsored by Temple David
November 7, 10 am and 7:30 pm; November 14, 10 am and 7:30 pm; November 28, 10 am and 7:30 pm; December 5, 10 am and 7:30 p.m. at Temple David, 4415 Northern Pike, Monroeville
Often the women of the Hebrew Bible are voiceless and nameless. This is a unique opportunity to draw out their voices through their actions and the immediate as well as evolving response to them. Using traditional and modern commentaries, women’s commentaries as well as our own life experiences, we will help Eve, Sarah, Esther, Vashti and the women of Exodus Chapter One find their voices and in so doing, discover ours. With Rabbi Barbara Symons. No Charge.
For more information contact the Temple David office –412-372-1200

Monday, October 15, 2012

Spring Research Awards for Undergraduates

The Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences
Spring Undergraduate Research Awards
for Independent Research in
Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences

The Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences is seeking applicants to join a diverse community of undergraduate scholars and researchers from the humanities, natural sciences, and social sciences. Awardees receive $1,000 to support spring semester independent research.

Applications will be accepted from any Dietrich School undergraduate who:

• is in good academic standing;
• has completed 30 Pitt credit hours of academic work;
• has declared a disciplinary major, and
• has a faculty mentor who is within the project discipline who will be responsible for the oversight of the project.

ContacT: Office of Undergraduate Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity (OUR), 209 Thackeray Hall

Deadline: November 16, 2012.

Undergraduates: Spring Break Opportunity in the Largest Jewish City in the World

If you have research plans that would benefit from access to libraries, museums, historic site, or other resources, this is a great opportunity:


The Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences
New York City Field Studies Program

The Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences is seeking applicants for a New York City undergraduate research field studies program to take place over spring break, March 10-15, 2013. The program, which covers students’ travel, accommodations, and some meals, enriches students’ independent research by providing them the opportunity to conduct research outside the readily available resources of the University of Pittsburgh. Daily meetings and other educational and cultural activities will be scheduled. These activities will provide a connective tissue for the program, immersing the undergraduates in New York’s vibrant intellectual and cultural life.

Applications will be accepted from any Dietrich School undergraduate who:

• is in good academic standing;
• has earned a minimum of 30 Pitt credits and declared a disciplinary major, and
• has a faculty mentor who is within the project discipline who will be responsible for the oversight of the project.

Application DUE: November 16, 2012
CONTACT: Office of Undergraduate Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity (OUR), 209 Thackeray Hall

Wednesday, October 10, 2012

Major-Minor-AND CERTIFICATE-Fair Today

There will be a Jewish Studies table at today's major-minor expo at the William Pitt Union. Come by between 11 and 2:30 today to meet faculty from the program and get information about the Certificate and about courses in the spring. Or just say hello.