The Reporter’s “Community Spotlight” feature seeks to highlight community members and find out more about them. If you want to be among the participants, e-mail treporter@aol.com. Rose Shapiro is a Jewish Federation board member and a consultant teacher at Binghamton’s West Middle School.
1. What is your hometown?
Vestal, NY
2. What is your earliest Jewish memory?
Growing up at the JCC and learning about the holidays in preschool. I remember my teachers Maxine (Granato) and Julie (Piaker). I also have a lot of memories at the old Temple Israel. I especially remember going to the kids services downstairs on the High Holidays.
3. What is your favorite Jewish food or dessert?
There are so many delicious foods to choose from, but my Aunt Mania makes the best matzah ball soup! I look forward to all the holidays at her house. I also miss my Zaydie’s challah. He would make the best challah!
4. What is your favorite Jewish holiday?
I love Hanukkah and watching the lights burn. There are so many unique menorahs. The story of the Maccabees and the miracle of the oil reminds us of the importance of resilience and hope.
5. What has been the biggest influence on your Jewish identity?
There are so many things that have influenced my Jewish identity that have shaped me into the person I am today. My earlier years were influenced by attending the JCC preschool and Hillel Academy. I also think my brother, Lee, influenced my Jewish identity growing up because I would watch him lead services and wanted to be just like him.
As I got older and went away to college, I was fortunate enough to get involved in the Jewish life at SUNY Oneonta. There, I was a member of Hillel and would attend Chabad. I think my Birthright trip influenced me as I went on to staff two additional trips. I have been to Israel five times and hope to go back again some day!
6. What are you most proud of?
I am most proud of being on the Federation Board. I enjoyed the years being on the board with my dad. I know that he would be proud of me for continuing to give back to the community that shaped me into the person who I am today. The Federation was a huge part of my Dad’s life and I want to continue his legacy.
7. Do you have any children and/or pets?
I have a dog, Duncan. He is a Brittany Spaniel and full of energy. He is named after Dunkin’ Donuts because I love coffee.
8. What are your hobbies?
Spending time with my husband, Eric and going on hikes, traveling and watching sports. I also love a good book. My TBR (to be read) list is always growing. My husband and I have been to 19 of 30 MLB stadiums. We can’t wait to see the rest. Go Red Sox!
9. What makes you happy?
I love spending time with my family! I especially love hanging out with my nephew Bennett and niece Elyza.
I enjoy working with my students and seeing them be successful. I am currently a consultant teacher at West Middle School (Binghamton).
10. What do you like most about living in Binghamton?
Binghamton is a small community but you are not that far from major cities. I love how close the Jewish community is here. I have grown up here and have so many wonderful memories.
11. Anything else you would like to share?
My first jobs were at the JCC working at camp as a counselor and in Kids Connection.