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Jewish Observer March 2021 of Central New York Published by Jewish Federation of Central New York From the Editor D’var 5655 Thompson Road DeWitt, NY 13214 Heroines in Egypt and Today In Sotah 11b, Rav phone: 315-445-2040 x106 Avira taught: “In the merit of fax: 315- 445-1599 the righteous women that were jewishfederationcny.org in that generation, the Jewish people were redeemed from Egypt.” This is high praise for our foremothers and appropriate for President/CEO...... Michael Balanoff this issue of the Jewish Observer, Board Chair...... Neil Rosenbaum which celebrates both Passover Editor...... Barbara Davis and Jewish Women’s History Barbara Davis By Rabbi Yehoshua Zehavi Month. Yet the role of has long been the subject This month is Jewish Women’s History month. It is also of debate, framed by the perspectives of those involved. The lau- the month we will celebrate Passover. The connection be- datory words of Eshet Chayil, or Woman of Valor, from the Book tween women’s leadership and Passover has always been The Jewish Federation of Central New York is a proud member of the Jewish Federations of North America. of Proverbs, are meant to be recited by Jewish husbands to their strong. In the Talmud, Rav Avira declares, “It was through the wives every week. The strength and fortitude of the eshet chayil is merit of the righteous women of that generation that Israel considered exemplary and admirable. was redeemed from Egypt.” (Sotah 11b) He tells a story of Produced by A woman of valor, who can find? Her worth is far above jewels. the commitment of the Hebrew women to care for their fam- The heart of her husband trusts in her, and nothing shall he ilies and continue bringing children into the world, despite lack. Pharaoh’s cruel decrees. According to this tale and others She renders him good and not evil all the days of her life. like it, our mothers in particular kept the faith throughout Creative Director...... Jean-Pierre Thimot [email protected] She opens her hand to the needy, and extends her hand to the long years of slavery and oppression. Lead Designer...... Of course, we need not look to the Talmud or to Midrash Kimberly Miers the poor. [email protected] for women’s heroism. Though Moses our Teacher is singled She is robed in strength and dignity, and cheerfully faces what- Senior Graphic Designers...... Josh Flanigan, Adam Van Schoonhoven, ever may come. out as God’s messenger, his birth, survival, and success were Nicholas Vitello She opens her mouth with wisdom. assured by a series of courageous women: the midwives Director of Advertising...... Barbara E. Macks Her tongue is guided by kindness. who defied Pharaoh, Moses’ mother who shrewdly protected Sales Director...... Cynthia Oppenheimer She tends to the affairs of her household, and eats not the him, his sister who watched over his basket floating on the [email protected] bread of idleness. Nile, the princess who drew him from the waters and adopt- Senior Account Executives....Terri Downey, Keren Green, Mary Beth Holly, Her children come forward and bless her. ed him as her own, and later his wife Tziporah, whose quick Caroline Kunze, Robin Lenhard, Rachel Wasserman Her husband too, and he praises her. instincts and bold deeds averted divine punishment during Yet the patriarchal nature of rabbinic Judaism limited women their journey back to Egypt. The survival of Israel in gener- BUFFALO SPREE PUBLISHING, INC. President & CEO...... Sharon C. to the domestic realm for hundreds of years. Education of Jewish al, and of our leader Moses in particular, was possible only Publisher/Chief Revenue Officer...... Barbara E. Macks girls was restricted to information needed for prescribed domes- through the actions each of these women took to oppose Associate Publisher/Editor-In-Chief...... Elizabeth Licata tic duties; the study of religious texts was forbidden. Men operat- injustice and affirm life, even at great personal risk. Vice President/Administrative & Finance...... Michele Ferguson ed in the public sphere and women in the private sphere of the In the end, none of these women were given center Corporate Counsel...... Timothy M. O’Mara, Esq. home and family. Isaac di Lattes, a 14th century rabbi wrote, “Just stage. Instead, Moses and his brother Aaron became the he- as man fulfills his role to the highest degree by devoting himself roes who received the greatest and most sustained recogni- to study [of Torah], searching after wisdom and probing into the tion in the Torah’s narrative. It would be reasonable to decry causes of all phenomena, so it is the glory and the grandeur of this as an example of the patriarchy of the times. However, Submissions: woman to remain in the home to give guidance to her children it is also worth considering whether the heroines of Exodus Submit stories and photos no later than the 1st of the preceding and to prepare food for the household.” model a type of leadership quite distinct from that of Moses. month prior to publication to [email protected]. To Advertise: There are many examples of women of valor who played lead- Many of us imagine leaders to be charismatic and force- To advertise, call Cynthia Oppenheimer at 716-783-9119 x2240. ing roles in Jewish history beyond the domestic, including Sarah, ful, people who push forward action from start to finish and Ad space & materials are due by the 16th of each month prior to who therefore deserve an outsized portion of the public’s Miriam, Devorah, Hannah, Abigail, Huldah, Esther and . And publication. For a rate card and any additional information, please in the modern era, the impact and importance of Jewish women is attention. To a great extent, Moses fits that description email Cynthia Oppenheimer [email protected] or even more significant. One has only to think of Golda Meir, Emma while the women of Exodus do not. They received far less Barbara Macks [email protected]. Lazarus, Hannah Senesh, Hannah Solomon, Henrietta Szold and attention, but, more importantly, they did not execute linear To Subscribe: innumerable women in the 20th and 21st centuries who broke processes to completion. Instead, they each rose to the oc- To subscribe, email [email protected]. Free for ground, glass ceilings and records in ever-increasing numbers. casion in a moment that demanded courage. Without thanks Central New York area residents and donors to the Federation’s As we celebrate Jewish American Women’s History month, in or acclaim, they took risks to preserve human life, though annual campaign. Non-resident subscription is $36 for 12 issues, conjunction with Women’s History Month, we are also cognizant they could not assure the outcome on their own. They sim- payable to the Jewish Observer. of another historic first: the election of the first woman to the ply took the next step, leaving it to others to carry the work THE JEWISH OBSERVER OF CENTRAL NEW YORK (USPS 000939) (ISSN 1079-9842) vice-presidency of the United States, the election of the first forward. Thus, baby Moses was passed off from his mother Publications Periodical postage paid at Syracuse, NY and other offices. Published 12 times per year by the Jewish Federation of Central New York Inc., a non-profit woman of color to that office and the elevation of the first Jewish to his sister to his adoptive mother and back to his birth corporation, 5655 Thompson Road, DeWitt, NY 13214. Subscriptions $36/year; spouse to the role of “second husband” of a woman known to her mother. By each playing a more modest role, these women student $10/year. POSTMASTER: Send address change to JEWISH OBSERVER OF CENTRAL NEW YORK, 5655 Thompson Road, DeWitt, NY 13214. step-children as “Mamele.” formed a circle of heroines that together made redemption It is therefore with great pride that the March issue of the Jew- possible. The Jewish Observer of Central New York reserves the right to cancel any advertisement at any time. The Jewish Federation of Central New York and Buffalo Spree Publishing, ish Observer celebrates and recognizes some of the women in Our society still celebrates the kind of figures who take Inc. are not liable for the content or errors appearing in the advertisements beyond our own community who not only have broken barriers but who the lion’s share of the attention and the credit for work that the cost of the space occupied. The Jewish Observer does not assume responsibility for the of any product or service advertised in this paper. Editorials, columns, continue to work for equity, justice and good in our society in so is actually performed by the many. This month, as we raise advertisements, agency reports and other outside articles do not necessarily many realms. As we look forward to the day when we can cele- up the tradition of Jewish women’s leadership, we might represent the views of the newspaper or the Jewish Federation of Central New York, but rather express the view of the writer. brate Passover together again, in person and in safety, and when consider the importance of highlighting a different model all the people of our country can enjoy the blessings of freedom of leadership, one that prioritizes collaboration, camarade- All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, which makes it illegal to advertise “based on race, color, religion, from hunger, prejudice, disease, poverty and oppression, we give rie, and humility. In doing so, we may uncover unexpected sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, or an intention to make any such thanks for all those who lead us with wisdom, kindness and valor. heroines of our past and, most of all, make space for new preference, limitation or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate that is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby Chag pesach sameach – have a happy Passover! and different leaders to guide us into our future. informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. FEDERATION

From the Federation President/CEO The Jewish Federation Is Being “Social” Michael Balanoff At a time when socializing that the Federation supports is almost impossible and we across the local Jewish don’t feel as connected as community.” we used to, social media Most nonprofits have a provides a COVID-friendly, Facebook page or a Twitter Dayenu finger-on-the-pulse method account. But social media in of staying in touch. One of the nonprofit world is about It Would Have Been Enough the ways Federation works more than getting “likes.” It to build a strong Jewish is a modern and effective way our efforts at the end of January, we had future in the community is for organizations to reach a raised over half a million dollars. This was an through engagement. wide audience, particularly incredible achievement, made possible thanks “Social media is another young people, to tell their to super heroic efforts by so many. platform for Federation to story and engage supporters. Passover is a time of gratitude. Passover’s connect with our supporters Community members can signature song, Dayenu, expresses our and our community and to stay involved and follow appreciation of all that has been done for us. further our reach, as well as the Federation on Facebook This year, we say Dayenu with even greater our mission,” says Michael and Instagram for the latest emphasis. We thank all those who donated, Balanoff, Federation’s President/CEO. communications about events and the especially those who increased their gifts. “Our goal, as a community umbrella sharing of news, successes and challenges. We thank our corporate sponsors. We thank organization, is to understand the needs of Both platforms will post often with special those who made Super Hero Super Sunday a our community, to identify opportunities features including holidays and elaboration unique and fun experience, all the kids who for positive interaction with the members of the Federation’s theme for 2021, Because put on masks and took photos, all those who of Jewish Central New York and to tell of You, which will showcase the multitude nominated their personal Super Heroes, all the our story. Federation’s Strategic Planning of agencies and programs that are funded As we approach our second adults who put on costumes and added spirit Committee, co-chaired by Leah Goldberg by the Federation. Throwback pictures of Passover in the midst of a and fun to a challenging task. and Anick Sinclair, has made enhancing Federation events and activities from its pandemic, the horror of the We are grateful this year that there are so the Federation’s social media presence a century-old history will also be included. plagues has become increasingly many who are in the front-lines of the fight priority. Thanks to their efforts, Federation Follow Federation on Facebook real. Just as we remove ten drops against the coronavirus. We are grateful for has a more robust presence on both at https://www.facebook.com/ of wine to diminish our joy at those who donate funds, food and clothing for Facebook and Instagram and is working to jewishfederationcny.org. For Instagram, the seder, our joy in everything those who do not have enough. We are grateful align social media with its goals and target go to https://www.instagram.com/ we do in 2021 is tempered by for those who fight for justice for all the audiences.” jewishfederationofcny/. Federation also an awareness of who and what members of our society, remembering that we “We are very excited to launch communicates monthly through the we have lost to the coronavirus. were once slaves in Egypt and know what Federation’s presence on social media,” Jewish Observer and weekly via Constant Close to two million people have it is to suffer under the yoke of oppression. adds Sinclair. “It will complement the JO Contact. To receive the JO by mail and died worldwide and millions But most of all, we are thankful that we in highlighting the important work that Constant Contact by email, go to https:// more have been sickened. While have a Jewish community in Central New York, is achieved by the extraordinary agencies jewishfederationcny.org/contact-us/. the scientific work that has been a community that is connected and caring. done to develop a vaccine is truly We may not always agree with one another, miraculous, we cannot yet rejoice. we don’t all worship at the same , We must temper our joy with we may define ourselves differently as Jews sorrow and sadness as the death – but in our very diversity, there is strength. toll in the United States reaches Our community has stood strong for many the half million mark. decades. It is changing now, but change can Federation’s Super Sunday be a positive force, bringing new energy and ABECEDARIUM campaign for Jewish life in Central synergy. We see young people and young of FEDERATION SUPPORT New York was conducted in the families moving here. We see new businesses shadow of COVID-19. The balloons starting up and new technologies altering Each month, the Observer will highlight the agencies and organizations and posters, kids and callers that everything from the way we earn to the way that are supported by Federation’s donors through their gifts to the annual used to fill the auditorium of the we learn. campaign. We begin the alphabet with the Ahavath Achim Mikvah amd Beit JCC in a hubbub of activity were Who would have thought that so many Tikvah Group Residence. only fond memories this year. Our 80- and 90-year-olds would be connecting to Campaign Chair, Debbie Rosenbaum, everyone from their rabbis and doctors to their Ahavath Achim Mikvah: The mikvah is a Super Sunday Super Women Anick children and grandchildren on tablets? Who bath used for the purpose of ritual immersion to Sinclair and Phyllis Zames and the would have thought that people who moved achieve ritual purity. It is used regularly by many wonderful Campaign Cabinet were away to warmer climes to escape our snow members of our community and is an essential able to produce an amazing Zoom and cold would be joining us for services on part of the procedure for conversion to Judaism. replacement filled with Super Heroes Shabbat and holidays through the miracle of Beit Tikvah Group Residence: The group of all kinds who reached out to donors streaming? It would have been enough just to home for young women with developmental with enthusiasm, appreciation and survive the pandemic, dayenu, but instead, this disabilities is run by Menorah Park and Jewish talent. And our donors responded. year, we have found additional blessings. Family Service and is located in DeWitt. When we tallied up the results of March 2021 | jewishfederationcny.org 3 JEWSAROUNDAGENCIES AROUND TOWN THE WORLD

countries despite the COVID- Haredi women complete tech training. 81 Jews Around the World 19 pandemic. Over half of the religious Jewish women completed the first two- new citizens emigrated from year Adva program that trains women for tech The Jewish Observer is pleased to bring readers a page of stories about Israel and the global the former Soviet Union, 2,550 development jobs. The virtual graduation event was Jewish community. For those who wish more information than can be provided on this page, from the US and 2,220 from attended by Israeli tech executives, who recruited links to articles that provide greater depth are included where possible. France. https://www.jpost.com/ the graduates for Apple, Facebook, Check Point, israel-news/culture/20000- XM Cyber and others. https://www.calcalistech.com/ olim-from-70-countries-moved- ctech/articles/0,7340,L-3884536,00.html time, a female officer will serve as to-israel-this-year-despite- Ethiopian woman is top advocate for Israel. bureau chief to the Israel Air Force. pandemic-653508 Ethiopian Israeli Ashager Araro is one of Jewish Maj. N., currently deputy commander Ethiopian immigrants. As News Syndicate’s top 40 global advocates for Israel. of the 119th Air Force Squadron, is part of Operation Rock of Israel, Born on the roadside on the way to Israel, she the first female officer to serve in another flight has brought 219 became a top IDF paratrooper, graduate of IDC the role, for which only the corps’ Ethiopian immigrants to the Herzilya and ambassador at Stand With Us. https:// top officers are selected. https:// Jewish State, uniting many of www.heyalma.com/this-israeli-ethiopian-activist- www.israelhayom.com/2020/12/08/ them with family members who should-be-on-your-radar/ in-first-iaf-chief-names-female-officer- had previously made aliyah. Bringing life to Africa during a pandemic. In as-bureau-chief/ https://www.jns.org/second- 2020 and despite COVID-19, Israeli NGO Innovation: First female head of Intelligence. flight-from-ethiopia-arrives- Africa brought water and light to over 200 villages In another first for Israeli women, in-israel-carrying-219-new- across Africa. They used Israeli technologies to deputy commander of the IDF’s immigrants/ bring solar energy, clean water, healthcare and food 9900th Unit, Lt. Col. R., has been Top of their class. A study security to millions of the world’s most vulnerable appointed head of the Military by Stanford University identifies people. https://www.innoafrica.org/ The world’s most beautiful face. Israeli Intelligence unit monitoring Iran, the top 2% of researchers in Going up. Approval has been given to begin model Yael Shelbia has been awarded the top becoming the first woman to hold the various disciplines worldwide. It construction of the Ramat Gan Diamond Exchange spot on the annual TC Candler magazine’s “100 position. https://www.israelhayom. includes 333 researchers from Tel in a suburb of . The new tower is set to Most Beautiful Faces of the Year” list. Shelbia com/2021/01/03/in-first-female- Aviv University, with 74 of them become Israel’s tallest building at 120 floors and is also the first Israeli to appear on the cover officer-to-head-intelligence-efforts- in the top 0.5%. https://www. 1710 feet, surpassing the Sarona Tower which is 781 of a magazine published in the United Arab against-iran/ jewishpress.com/news/israel/12- feet tall, with 61 floors. https://unitedwithisrael.org/ Emirates. The Sabbath-observant, IDF soldier $1 million raised for social app. israeli-researchers-from-tel-aviv- watch-this-tower-is-about-to-become-israels-tallest- will appear in February’s issue of Dubai-based 21-year-old Israeli May Piamenta u-among-top-50-in-their-fields- building/ fashion and lifestyle magazine L’Official Arabia. has raised $1 million for her social in-the-world/2020/12/24/ Growing coral in the lab. Ben Gurion University https://worldisraelnews.com/israeli-model-yael- startup Vee. The platform connects Treatment may cure genetic scientists are growing coral nurseries five times shelbia-hopes-to-extend-peace-in-the-middle- companies and organizations deafness. One in 400 children faster than natural coral production. These are then east-after-her-uae-magazine-cover-shoot / interested in mobilizing their staff are born with a genetic mutation transplanted into the Red Sea and become floating Israel is #1 for Women Entrepreneurs. for the sake of the community with that causes hearing loss. Tel coral islands. BGU is also partnering with scientists Israel is the best country for women volunteer activities and allows all Aviv University scientists have in the Florida Keys to grow coral tissue resilient to entrepreneurs worldwide, according to the activities to be managed remotely developed a harmless synthetic rising ocean temperatures. https://lifewp.bgu.ac.il/ Mastercard Index of Women Entrepreneurs – vital during a pandemic. https:// virus that replaces defective wp/nadavsh/ (MIWE) for 2020. Israel tops the charts for the unitedwithisrael.org/21-year-old- genes with healthy genes. It The Abrahamic family. The Arab delegation first time, advancing from fourth place in 2019. israeli-raises-1-million-for-social- may prevent deafness when from the UAE and Bahrain visited historical and Israel plans to double the number of female volunteering-app/ injected into the inner ear hair cultural sites in Israel. It was chaperoned by a entrepreneurs by 2022. 20,000 made Aliyah despite cells soon after birth. https:// new Israeli organization called Sharaka (Arabic for https://www.calcalistech.com/ctech/ pandemic. Some 20,000 olim (new unitedwithisrael.org/israelis- “cooperation” or “partnership”). https://www.jns. articles/0,7340,L-3875511,00.html immigrants) arrived in Israel during develop-gene-therapy-to-restore- org/bahraini-and-emirati-activists-in-israel-express- First female IAF Bureau Chief. For the first 2020. They came from 70 different hearing-in-children/ feeling-like-family-returning-home/

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immigrants from Russia and El Salvador. Celebrating a Centenarian An End of an He has worked with inner city youth, breast cancer patients, Hurricane Katrina by Sonali McIntyre Era for Judaic victims and families that lost children As the saying goes, ad me-ah in the massacre at Marjory Stoneman ve’esrim – until a hundred and twenty. Douglas High School in Parkland, FL. We have all heard the blessing, but Craftsmanship Following his retirement, he plans to focus how many people have we met by Joanne Villegas on the Glass Ribbon Project, an initiative that are living up to that blessing? After 40 years of creating beautiful to support cancer patients by creating Meet Rosalind Bodow, a beloved pieces of work that have touched the glass strength stones to give families, as wife, mother, sister, aunt and friend lives of so many in Jewish communities a physical and symbolic connection of who recently earned an elite title around the world, artist and craftsman support, love and healing. As he explains, – centenarian. In December 2020, Gary Rosenthal is retiring. Gary has “I always wanted to do good. The parts of Ros – as she is affectionately called – been welding metals since the early my business that are successful subsidize turned 100 years old. 1970s, combining brass, steel and the social work ventures. I want my art to What is her secret to longevity copper with brilliant fused glass. The engage others in doing good.” and good health? “I have found the collection has contemporary style “I met Gary over 30 years ago at a connections to my family to be the most deeply rooted in tradition. craft fair. His work was so amazing. I important factor to my longevity,” she “There’s something special about started collecting it immediately,” says said. Ros began dating her great love, personally owning or gifting someone a Linda Herman, CBS-CS gift shop buyer. Chuck at age 16 and was married four Rosenthal piece that’s been handcrafted “His work has touched so many people. years later. They were married for over and is truly unique since no two pieces We’ve been carrying his work at the store 50 years until Chuck’s passing in 1992. are exactly alike,” says Yolanda Febles for about 20 years now.” They had three children and their family Congregation Beth Sholom-Chevra Rosenthal has brought function and has grown with three grandchildren and advice on longevity. Amy Bodow wrote, Shas Sisterhood member and gift shop beauty into so many Jewish homes and six great-grandchildren. “I think the most important thing I website designer. “It’s so special and high businesses. Knowing that he’s retiring and Ros quickly bonded with Chuck’s learned from you during the course of quality that I can easily see a Rosenthal his work will no longer be available is hard family and played a significant role in the my life is how important family is and piece becoming a family treasure and to hear, so the CBS-CS gift shop wants lives of her niece and nephews following how to keep those familial bonds strong. something that’s passed down. I love his to give the Syracuse Jewish community the death of their mother at a young age. Even when distance has separated us, it artistic mission of creating something so a special opportunity to own or gift a Taking care of them in all the ways a hasn’t dimmed the bond I feel for you beautiful that you want to display it, even Rosenthal piece before his doors close mother does, “Tante Ros” made sure the and our extended family, and this is when it’s not being used.” to the public. Some pieces are currently Bodow children were well-dressed and because of your example.” Work from the Rosenthal collection in stock and available for immediate well-fed. She even taught her nephew Rosalind Bodow is truly the has been presented to presidents from purchase at the gift shop but his entire Warren how to dance so he could take a matriarch for generations of her family. Carter to the Obamas and celebrities far collection is featured on CBS-CS gift girl to his school’s homecoming dance. Over the years, she has hosted many and wide. His work has been featured in shop’s new website for pre-sale through During this time, Ros also organized family members in her home – for galleries, private collections and museum March 15th. CBS-CS launched the site Warren’s bar mitzvah celebration. weeks, month, and even years as they shops including the Corning Museum just before in November. The Coming through in times of crisis experienced transitions in their lives, of Glass, American Craft Museum, The items from the pre-sale will take a few was just one of Ros’ ways to create leaving them with feelings of love and Jewish Museum and the John F. Kennedy weeks to ship since they will be made and maintain the deep connections to memories of fondness. She has passed Center for Performing Arts. to order. To help offset costs, the gift her family. Following her brother Fred’s her love on to the younger generations Rosenthal’s work is impressive but shop is offering a 10% discount on all heart attack, Ros and Chuck drove her through her actions, her lessons and her even more impressive is his dedication custom online purchases. To see Gary niece Cory to college so she would not love. Over the years, Ros has knit and to tikkun olam. Rosenthal is a true Rosenthal’s work and line of custom- miss orientation. A few years later, after crocheted blankets, sweaters, hats and mensch. His philanthropic efforts include made products, including his Passover Fred had died, Ros and Chuck came more for literally hundreds of family and employing people with autism and collection, visit www.cbscs.org/shop. through again, this time hosting Cory’s friends. Each would include a label that wedding reception in their backyard, read “Made with Love by Ros,” giving a creating a beautiful and special day for tangible piece of her affection to those the bride and groom. around her. The connections that Ros has made L’dor v’dor – from generation to 119 W. Seneca Street are strong and plentiful. While the family generation – Ros has played a substantial Manlius, NY 13104 wanted to celebrate her 100th birthday role in shaping the lives of her siblings, with a big party, the pandemic dashed children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews those hopes. Instead, Ros’ daughter and beyond. The values and traditions of Always Fresh, Andrea Knoller and granddaughter Amy love and family have been passed down, Bodow reached out to family and friends and will continue to be passed down for Always Organic far and wide to create a beautiful digital generations to come. tribute. In over 50 entries and 200 pages, The Temple Adath Yeshurun www.skytopcoffee.com people wrote messages, shared memories community is delighted to send Ros CERTIFIED ORGANIC and photos and celebrated a lifetime of the very best wishes and blessings for Specialty Coffee love, which was then compiled into a her 100th birthday. As the saying goes – book. Until a hundred and twenty! One particular entry spoke to Ros’ March 2021 | jewishfederationcny.org 5 AGENCIES B’TAY AVON! Happy Passover Jewish Cook of theMonth Rita Tessler Kanter Beth Rita Tessler Kanter lives in Gluten-Free Teiglach Recipe Manlius with her husband Allan. MacCrindle 4 eggs She is the mother and mother- Associate Real 2 t sugar in-law of five and Bubbie to 14 Estate Broker 2 T canola oil grandchildren. 2 cups Authentic Foods Multi-Blend Rita learned to cook from her Stage ♦ Photograph ♦ List ♦ Sell Gluten Free Flour, spoon measured mother and from the women at 1 t xanthan gum Personal Experienced Service Temple Adath Yeshurun Sisterhood. 1/2 t ginger “As we cooked for the antique and 1/3 cup raisins Thinking about Buying or Selling art shows, I learned to organize and 1/4 cup chopped walnuts Now or in the Future? cook in quantity. Cookbooks are Syrup: always around my house, and I read Boil slowly 2 lbs. honey, 2 cups sugar, them like novels,” she says. 2 t ginger For Rita, “cooking is a creative endeavor especially while keeping a Beat eggs, oil, sugar, ginger, flour and xanthan kosher and gluten-free kitchen. We gum to form a soft dough. Add in raisins and nuts. love to eat, and if we want ethnic Divide into four parts. Roll each into a smooth log foods, I must learn to make them 12-15 inches long. Cut into 3/4-inch pieces and form myself. My favorite dish is the last into small balls. Carefully drop into boiling syrup, really good one I made or the last Asked to share a favorite recipe, cover and cook on low to maintain a slow boil. Do not one a grandchild requested.” Rita said, “My teiglach recipe is the uncover for 30 minutes. Peek in to see if they are light Her cooking secret is “to be one I am most proud of. After seven brown and sound hollow. Test to see if they are crisp 6868 East Genesee Street prepared. Something will always attempts, I was able to rework it so it and dry on the inside. If not, cover and continue to Fayetteville, NY 13066 happen before a holiday or shabbat: is now gluten-free and is enjoyed by cook. Shake pan occasionally. Turn off heat and add 315-299-7794 prep, cook ahead, freeze, plan all at our table and 1/2 cup boiling water and 2 t ginger. Pour into jars ahead.” year-round (but not Pesach!). while still warm. Do not cover until cold.

KOSHER Federation Presents: Solomonov Passover Cooking Class MARKET Lipman‘for over 70 years Over 8,000 people joined chef Michael Solomonov’s demonstration for Chanukah and many more are eagerly awaiting his Passover has all of your program. Chef will demonstrate the preparation of Mina with Ground Beef, and Coffee. He explains, “Mina is the Ladino word for pie. This Passover dish, common Koshe throughout the Sephardic world, is almost Meats & Groceries too good to be true. Once the is • soaked and baked, it magically transforms • Veal into something more like traditional • Roasts pastry than unleavened bread. Mina has • Chicken great vegetarian potential and can be filled with anything from eggplant to spinach 1482 Monroe Avenue • Rochester and cheese to potatoes. The mina is 585-271-7886 Delivery at Temple Adath Yeshurun • Mar 10TH topped with the fruit-and-nut condiment so crucial to the Passover table: . Cardamom is used to flavor coffee and in sweets throughout the Middle East, but the cardamom-coffee combination Send works perfectly in savory recipes like this one. The cardamom is super piney and Mazal Tov fragrant, with a sweetness that balances wishes the roasty, bitter coffee and the rich, salty in the meat.” The program will air at 8 pm on March Jewish Observer 16 and will be available for six days after. of Central New York The link for the event is: www.vimeo. com/showcase/passovercooking and the FOR MORE INFO CONTACT: password is ZAHAV (case sensitive). C Recipes may be obtained from bdavis@ 716-308-4843 jewishfederationcny.org; there will be [email protected] one other dish in addition to the mina and charoset. 6 jewishfederationcny.org | March 2021 B’TAYAGENCIES AVON! Rosie’s Kitchen Passover Recipes Arlene Yozawitz’s Vegetable

Leah Goldberg’s Passover Granola 4 cups matzah farfel 2 1/2 C Matzo Farfel (if using GF matzo, just break into small pieces) 2 cans 1 cup slivered almonds 1 cup celery, chopped 1 cup walnut pieces 1 lb. mushrooms, sliced 1/4 cup margarine 3 eggs 1/4 cup honey 3/4 cup oil 1/4 cup brown sugar 2 T parsley (optional) 1/2 t 1/2 t ginger (optional) The Glasser family recently 1/2 cup raisins 1/4 t pepper moved to Central New York from 1/2 cup dried fruit bits 1/4 t salt Brooklyn. Neil Glasser, who is 1 large onion, diced a kosher supervisor, explains: Preheat oven to 300 degrees. On a baking sheet, spread out the “Our move to Syracuse was not farfel, almonds and walnuts. Bake for 15 minutes, stirring once halfway Soak farfel in soup. Sauté celery, onion and a decision we made lightly. We through the baking time. Remove from oven and transfer to bowl. mushrooms in 1/4 cup oil. Add 1/2 cup oil, 3 weighed our options for where In a saucepan over medium heat, combine margarine, honey, brown beaten eggs, and sautéed veggies to farfel. Pour we could have a better life for sugar and cinnamon. Simmer until sugar dissolved. Pour over farfel- into greased 13 X 9 pan. Bake at 375 degrees for ourselves and our daughter. nut mixture and mix well. On a baking sheet, spread out coated farfel 50-60 minutes until brown. Syracuse is that place. Life in mixture. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove from oven, transfer to a bowl and Syracuse is a big change from add raisins and dried fruit. Mix well. Transfer granola back to baking the nerve-wrecking atmosphere sheet and let cool. of Brooklyn. The scenery alone Shaynah Demari’s Chocolate has a calming effect on us. Our Toffee Matzo daughter’s enjoyment of being able to have space outside, Ellen Weinstein’s Knaidlach 1/2 lb. (4 to 5 pieces) and seeing how happy she has Surprise 1/2 cup butter been since moving to Syracuse 1 cup brown sugar mean the world to us. The mixture 8 ounces chocolate chips neighborhood and the people 4 eggs who are in it have welcomed us 1/2 cup cold seltzer Sue Kurn’s Passover Line a sheet with foil and lay matzo with open arms. 1 cup matzah meal on pan. Melt brown sugar with butter in “We had been in Syracuse for 1/3 cup oil Pineapple Apple Kugel saucepan; boil until mixture coats a spoon. only a short time when the Syracuse 1 t salt 1 stick margarine Brush matzo with brown sugar mixture. Bake Hebrew Day School offered Rosie dash of pepper 1 cup sugar (feel free to reduce in 350-degree oven for 3-4 minutes (watch a teaching position. This was this amount) closely-it burns easily!!!) until it starts to wonderful news because SHDS is the Beat eggs; add water, oil, salt and 2 large cans crushed pineapple, bubble. Cover with chocolate chips and put educational foundation of Central pepper. Mix well, then add matzah drained back in the oven until the chips start to melt. New York’s Jewish community and meal. Mix thoroughly. Form into 8 eggs Spread the chocolate to cover the matzo. there is no better place for her to balls (size of large walnut) and 3 cups matzah farfel Freeze until hard, then break into pieces. be. Since she started working there, refrigerate at least one hour or 4 apples, peeled, cored and Option: sprinkle chopped nuts on top. I have heard only positive things overnight. thinly sliced about how warm the teachers are Topping: 1/2 cup brown sugar and how welcoming they all have Meat Filling and 1 - 2 tsp. cinnamon been. Rosie thoroughly enjoys 1/2 lb. ground beef Ruth Stein’s Lemon Sauce working with the children and feels 1 egg Melt margarine. Add sugar. that she has landed where she is Dash of salt/pepper Beat eggs one at a time into 3 eggs meant to be professionally. We 2 T oil margarine-sugar mixture. 1 ½ lemons and rind also cannot wait for Lillian to start Soak farfel in warm water for 1 ½ cups water or orange juice kindergarten there next year.” Mix ground beef with egg, 3 minutes; drain. Add farfel, 1 cup sugar One of the Glassers’ other reasons salt and pepper. Shape into tiny pineapple and apples to egg 2 T potato starch for moving to Syracuse was to help meatballs (size of grape). Sauté mixture; mix well. This will establish a with in oil until cooked through. Let reheat well. Pour into greased Separate eggs. Mix egg yolks and sugar. Add a parve takeout menu for Shabbat. cool; stuff one meatball into center 9x13 baking dish. Sprinkle with juice and rind of lemon. Dilute starch with They have taken the first step in that of each matzah ball. Bring water topping. Bake at 350 degrees cold water, add to egg and sugar mixture. Cook direction by introducing “Rosie’s to boil in large pot, add stuffed for 45-60 minutes or until firm. in double boiler over medium heat stirring Kitchen” which offers , matzah balls and boil uncovered Serves 10-12 (more if there are constantly until thick. Fold in beaten egg dips and . They hope to be for 20 minutes. several side dishes). whites. Chill several hours before serving on expanding their menu and having Passover pound cake; top with strawberries. a permanent location in the near future. “Thank you for letting us join your Syracuse family!” March 2021 | jewishfederationcny.org 7 THE JEWISH EXPERIENCE

» Book Review I’m Not Really A Waitress: OPI founder to The Genius of Women: From Overlooked address Lions and Pomegranates to Changing the World by Janice Kaplan On Sunday, March 14th, members Reviewed by Bonnie S. Leff of the Central New York Lions of Judah and Pomegranate Society will Janice Kaplan’s The Genius of Women: join with peers from Federations From Overlooked to Changing the World across the country to hear Suzi Weiss- begins with an examination of what it takes Fischmann talk about the Jewish to make “a genius.” Kaplan recognizes that values that influenced her business genius requires more than ability. A certain success and how she earned the title measure of celebrity is required for a genius as the “First Lady of Nails.” to be recognized as such. When men control Born in Hungary, the daughter of the narrative and women cannot receive Holocaust survivors, Suzi was attracted the recognition to obtain celebrity, it is to the beauty world at an early age. She as if they never existed. Kaplan explores life and fate strike for reasons unknowable. cultivated her instinct for color and style this phenomenon in the fields of painting, For genius—for real success in life—you in the garment industry of New York music, literature, philosophy, physics need an attitude that can defy all that.” City, where she also attained a degree and chemistry. I had been thinking that Kaplan recognizes that there are certain from Hunter College. Suzi’s passion for we had “come a long way, baby,” but her times and places that have been hubs of fashion translated into year after year examples of suppression of women’s genius, like Italy during the Renaissance, of on-trend nail lacquer shades, worn accomplishments were everywhere and the Silicon Valley in the 1970s and ancient by celebrities and consumers alike to successes of women were the exception, Athens. The #MeToo Movement is currently accessorize the season’s hottest looks. that “women can be anybody…If they not the norm. Kaplan points out that, as provoking some change, though it remains She co-founded OPI and became its have the passion and they really want a culture, 90% of us associate genius with to be seen how far reaching and consistent brand ambassador. She felt that there something, they can do it.” men. By age 6, when told a story about the changes will be. The Genius of Women were not enough color choices for nails Weiss-Fischmann places a strong someone who is “very, very smart,” children was an enjoyable read, although sobering on the market and made her mark on emphasis on philanthropic contributions assume that person is a guy. Kaplan is when it cleared out much of my comfortable the beauty industry when she created through the Fischmann Family correct, I think, when she explains that this denial. It is extremely well-documented and the first thirty OPI nail lacquers. For 35 Foundation, which focuses on education kind of patriarchy is within us. has a large scope. It is inspiring to learn of years, she set trends for the nail industry, and provides scholarships and financial Kaplan eventually comes to recognize the successes of so many women geniuses igniting the dark nail revolution with the aid at various institutions. “I strongly that a third ingredient necessary for genius and of their contributions to society. Janice deep purple Lincoln Park After Dark, believe that education is one the most status for women is fearlessness. Her Kaplan will undoubtedly become a standard adding real diamond dust to nail lacquer important things we can provide our examples of fearlessness include women for liberal education. I would recommend and mainstream nail art with Shatter by children. No one can take away from from chemical engineers to master chefs. the book to all college students, those OPI. Suzi created thousands of iconic you what you learn, and with education She writes, “To take the ability and entering the job market, as well as people OPI shades, including You Don’t Know comes so many other opportunities,” it noticed requires the kind of strength in academia. I am glad that she was a guest Jacques!, Russian Navy, Bubble Bath and Suzi explains. of conviction that I heard over and over speaker at Temple Concord’s Goldenberg Cajun Shrimp. I’m Not Really a Waitress, The Jewish Federation of Central New from genius women. If you’re fearful...(y) Author Event last November so that I could one of her best-known colors, has been York has two women’s giving societies, ou internalize criticism and let it knock learn about this important topic. heralded as the perfect shade of red the Lions of Judah and the Pomegranate you out, rather than taking the parts that Bonnie S. Leff is a semi-retired social by women across the globe and is the Society, who will receive special seem useful and ignoring the rest.... These worker, committed Jew, ardent feminist, title of her book. In 2010, OPI was sold invitations to har Weiss-Fischmann’s forces may be doubting male colleagues or loving family member and loyal friend, in to Coty, Inc. for close to $1 billion. talk. Lions of Judah set an exemplary regressive social structures or the blows that ever-changing order. Suzi says the title reflects her belief standard of leadership and giving with an annual family commitment of $5,000 Ready to right size but unsureor more of next to stepsthe Federation? campaign. The Pomegranate Society recognizes women who support the Federation with Easy, worry-free lifestyle? Opt in today! an annual donation of $1,800 or more. Being part of the Pomegranate Society is a declaration of personal commitment The Oaks features 1 & 2 beautifully, to honor the Jewish values of tzedeka, remodeled bedroom apartments. justice and gemilut hasadim, acts of Short-term lease available. lovingkindness. For information about becoming a Let the Howard Hanna Manlius team Lion of Judah or a member of the help you. You are worth it! Cheryl E. Schotz Youchi Holstein Pomegranate Society and to receive an Lic. Associate RE Broker Lic. Real Estate invitation to hear this dynamic speaker, CRS, CBR, MOM Salesperson contact Colleen Baker at cbaker@ (315) 447-4062 (315) 254-8700 jewishfederationcny.org . 18 Arbor Lane, Syracuse, NY 13214 • www.MenorahParkofCNY.com • (315) 449-3309

8 jewishfederationcny.org | March 2021 WOMEN OF ACHIEVEMENT Law and Order: Jewish Women Fight for Equality and Justice Locally

When Judge Minna Buck sought Two Decades of Service permission to take the bar exam shortly after the birth of her daughter in the 1950s, Safeguarding Our Community the judge told her, “Your place is at home Susan Case DeMari was not only the with your husband and your child.” And that first woman but also the first Jewish ended that. chief deputy of the Onondaga County But not forever. Two decades later, Minna Sheriff’s Department, but her work on again applied to take the bar exam and this behalf of the Syracuse Jewish community time, she not only took and passed it, but has been ongoing for twenty years. The began a legal career that lasted for decades. Jewish Federation of Central New York She practiced before the U.S. District Court, has been ahead of the curve in addressing served as deputy director of the Crusade for security issues, thanks to Susan. She Opportunity in Syracuse, was a consultant became the Community Security Liaison Judge Minna Buck Judge Rosemary S. Pooler Judge Kate Rosenthal to the Office of Economic Opportunity in in 2000, long before the nation realized Washington, D.C., became executive director how necessary it was to be proactive of Onondaga Neighborhood Legal Services, in safeguarding our Jewish institutions. assistant corporation counsel for the city of She worked assiduously, first as a Syracuse and an assistant visiting professor volunteer and then as a Federation at Syracuse University. Her daughter became professional, to create partnerships an attorney; her second daughter is a bank between community houses of worship loan officer and her son is a forest ranger. and Jewish organizations and federal, Minna went on to serve as legislative counsel state and local law enforcement agencies to the New York State Assembly and was to assure a safer and more secure Jewish the first person to serve as counsel to the Central New York. Onondaga County Legislature. “We have been able to establish lines of Judge Rosemary S. Pooler is a circuit communication, protocols and training judge of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the sessions that are effective,” says DeMari. Judge Ava Shapero Raphael Chief Susan Case DeMari Second Circuit. She was in private practice “Everyone now stands fully behind and held various public offices before and the goal of making the community a after serving as Executive Director of the safer place in which to worship and New York State Consumer Protection Board, having a legal career, let alone with Advanced Degrees) group said be Jewish.” She has emphasized the where she earned a reputation as a champion becoming a judge. “It was the 1960s, ‘better go for it,’ and I did. A group establishment of a coordinated and of consumers’ rights. After an unsuccessful and that meant becoming a teacher of both Republican and Democrat unified approach to critical safety and campaign for Congress, she decided to run rather than going into law.” She women lawyers passed petitions to security needs, embracing a culture of for judicial office. There was opposition to earned a master’s degree in special get me on the ballot and then formed security awareness, preparedness and her based on her gender. An article in the education and taught in California a grassroots effort going door to disaster response. Working with the Syracuse Herald Journal noted that some and Syracuse. But her desire to go door to get me elected.” After two national Secure Community Network, people thought that “the bench was no place into law never disappeared, and years on the bench as Surrogate proactive and reactive protocols have for a woman.” Voters thought differently, when the youngest of her three Judge, Ava was appointed Acting been established. Susan is the point- however, and Rosemary became a justice of children entered kindergarten, Supreme Court Justice, serving until person who works with law enforcement the New York Supreme Court, holding this she went to SU law school. She 2017. She was recently honored by on behalf of the Jewish community, and position until becoming a district judge and began her career as a law clerk Access to Justice for her work in she has developed the ability to be in then circuit judge. in Onondaga County Surrogate’s creating a do-it-yourself program contact with law enforcement partners When Judge Kate Rosenthal opened her Court, entered private practice for unrepresented litigants that 24/7. Syracuse criminal defense practice in 1983, and later became chief clerk of the simplifies small estate matters. “Because Jews have increasingly there were no women handling homicide Surrogate’s Court. She then decided When Susan Case DeMari was become the targets of extremism and cases. “And most of the judges didn’t think to run for surrogate judge. Gender appointed chief deputy of the violence,” noted Federation President/ there was anything wrong with that,” she again became an issue. “Regardless Civil Department of the Onondaga CEO Michael Balanoff, “we are compelled says. “The bench was all male, they were all of party affiliation, it was very County Sheriff’s Office, she became to think strategically about security. about as old as our fathers, and they couldn’t difficult in those days to overcome the first female department chief in The leadership of Jewish Central New imagine why we would want to do that kind the ‘old boys’ club,” Ava recalls. the history of the department, which York has taken a proactive stance with of work.” Kate saw things differently and “I wasn’t nominated by either the dates back to 1794. Reflecting on respect to awareness, preparedness and spent two decades doing criminal defense Republicans or the Democrats. her position, Susan says, “Being in a resiliency. Susan DeMari’s work has work, including homicides and a death- The party bosses told me in no leadership position that historically been invaluable in this regard.” Neil penalty defense. Then she became one of uncertain terms that I ‘better not has always been filled by men, it is Rosenbaum, Federation board chair, the first female judges on the Syracuse City even consider running.’ The ‘ole my hope that women will follow my commented, “We are fortunate that the Court, where she served for twenty years boy’ candidate was already picked. lead and strive to pursue positions community has come together for a before retiring when her term was up. It was only the encouragement of a of rank in law enforcement, not only mission of such critical importance and Judge Ava Shapero Raphael was the first women’s group to which I belonged because they can, but because they has a professional of the caliber of Susan woman elected as Surrogate’s Court Judge that gave me the motivation to are strong, able and qualified to DeMari working on our behalf.” of Onondaga County. She never imagined run for office. My WAD (Women do so.” March 2021 | jewishfederationcny.org 9 COMMUNITY Jewish Women in Leadership - Why I Do What I Do

think of this region as being Jewish -- it is not. How would people remember me? It swelled with Jews in the summer months with What mark would I have left on my hotels and bungalow colonies catering to New community? Why did God save me York City Jews. from dying in that car accident? I was the only Jew in my class my entire life, And since He did, what would so of course I served as class treasurer, because be my purpose? I had months to everyone knows about Jews and money. I was ponder these questions. It was as Jillian Juni asked questions like, “Where do Jews keep their if I had a chance to be reborn, to Executive Director, Syracuse Hillel horns?” I never knew what a Jewish community redefine who I would be. I love Hillel, and I love New York. I grew up in was all about and never experienced a Jewish When my rehab was completed, the suburbs of , with a strong . Growing up in the Catskills, I launched myself into communal background my entire life. I went to URJ Eisner I felt starved for a Jewish community to identify life. I had been an active lay leader Camp, was a regular at my home synagogue and with. of the JCC for three decades. In was involved in NFTY. All this set the foundation Marci Erlebacher Moving to Syracuse, I was overwhelmed 2001, I became the executive for me to grow at Rutgers Hillel. I learned that there Executive Director, with what a Jewish community could be, with director. Despite the hundreds of are many ways to be Jewish, tried many of them and Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community multiple synagogues and Jewish institutions. I challenges that I face daily as a realized that I could create a beautiful and evolving Center would think how easy it was to be a Jew in a place Jewish professional, I would not Jewish life for myself. The staff at Hillel welcomed I once read that Jews were a people like this. I was excited to start my life in Syracuse trade one day of this experience. me, mentored me, and lifted me up as a valued of stories. We tell them and use them and to raise a family in this wonderful vibrant I found my Judaism through my leader. I met the love of my life at Hillel. as learning tools. This is not different community. work. I learned many facets of my When given the opportunity to work for Santa with my story. I am not a Syracuse But that is not what launched me into my religion and what it truly means to Barbara Hillel, I took it. I thought it would be a great native, but an import. I met my husband Jewish life. Thirty-four years ago, with an be a part of a Jewish community. I place to build my professional skills, but it turned out Mark in Miami, but he had a dream of 11-month-old in the backseat of my car, I had a learned all of this by giving back, to be so much more. Hillel is a movement made up of moving back to Syracuse to start a near-fatal car accident. During my rehabilitation, by being of service.” professionals, students and lay leaders who all strive medical practice. To me, Syracuse was I had a lot of time to think. One nagging thought to create positive campus climate and experiences The Big City. I grew up in the foothills that wouldn’t go away was: if I had died in that for Jewish students on campus. It is a movement of of the Catskills. While many people car accident, what would my obituary look like? dedicated individuals, inspiring the Jewish future. Hillel invests in its people. My colleagues became my priorities for their children’s education. They how to analyze and question friends and my family. were clearly defined and immutable and, aside what is taught, how to argue When considering moving back from California to from our health and safety, nothing was more intelligently, how to challenge New York, I hoped to stay in Hillel. When someone important, even if it meant paying tuition in and not accept things on blind first suggested that Syracuse would be a great fit for addition to their school taxes. faith—those are Jewish teachings. me, I laughed, assuming that the snow and upstate In 2018, after retiring from a nearly 40-year Making thoughtful choices about feel would be too big an adjustment. The more I career in public education, I was asked to take how to operationalize those Jewish researched, however, the more I was hooked. the leadership role at SHDS. From a religious teachings and our values is what I am proud to be Syracuse Hillel’s Executive standpoint, I did not feel qualified for the job. defines us, and is what guides the Director. Hillel is often called a “Jewish home away In the 1960s, Reform families did not typically educators at SHDS. It is how we from home.” For me, Hillel is much more than that. pursue a bas mitzvah for their daughters. honor those who went before us Our staff has the privilege of guiding students as they My formal Jewish education ended with my and made sacrifices so that we can make the journey from their Jewish home to their confirmation. My treasured three years in live Jewish lives today. next Jewish home. Students have an opportunity to Laura Lavine NFTY strengthened my connection to Judaism I believe that parents should do and experience new things in a community that Head of School, but more socially than academically. I quit be able to choose alternatives, is different from the community where they grew up. Syracuse Hebrew Day School “Beginning Adult Hebrew” in my 40s because it as my parents did, if the public With roots planted in the ground, their trees grow Growing up in Syracuse, I was was too difficult, but I wanted to help SHDS if I schools do not provide what their at Hillel and when they graduate, leaves sprout and aware of the Syracuse Hebrew Day could, so I agreed. families need. Now that I fully flowers blossom. Hillel is a preparation point which School but do not recall families from Now, starting my third year at the Syracuse appreciate SHDS’s vital role in our helps mold young adults into adults, enabling them Temple Society of Concord sending Hebrew Day School, I do not think there is a community, I believe that if every to be active participants in the Jewish communities their children there. I attended public more ardent champion for our gem of a school. family in our Jewish community that welcome them. schools through ninth grade, then, SHDS is a distinctive educational environment knew what their children could I do this work because it is important and personal. after a tumultuous 1969-1970 school where Jewish and non-Jewish children flourish. learn at SHDS, they would choose I get to advocate on behalf of Jewish students, year in Syracuse and the entire I marvel at our young students learning not it for their education, and that it is create welcoming environments for exploration country, my parents sent me to a only the general education curricula but Jewish my Jewish obligation as a school and development and engage with young minds private school. studies and Hebrew, too. When a six-year-old leader to support families making who simultaneously challenge and embrace ancient It was not until years later that reads a book in Hebrew and translates it into that choice.” tradition. The work is dynamic and energizing and I I fully appreciated the depth and English, I am truly amazed at what this school am so grateful to be part of it. breadth of my parents’ values and teaches. Learning about the history of our people, 10 jewishfederationcny.org | March 2021 COMMUNITY

the Jewish community, which an individual within the greater community was typically oblivious to our atypical became a lifelong pursuit for me, albeit one circumstances, sometimes unfeeling that I carried out idiosyncratically: getting and often cruel. My Jewish education bachelor’s and master’s degrees in German was weak and my relationships with (and making the story of the Holocaust other Jewish kids were strained by my own), marrying a non-Jew and our financial and familial differences. partnering to raise three Jewishly-identified What little I was called on to do children, studying and learning Jewishly, Offering Jewishly seemed dreary and a matter participating in a wonderful havurah, Full Restoration of social obligation. serving on my temple’s committees and Leaving for college, I identified board and teaching in the religious school and Jewishly but was not easy in my and building an almost 25-year career in Construction identity, and definitely not easy with professional Jewish communal service. Judith Huober the tension between my individuality I love Syracuse Jewish Family Service, Services Director, Syracuse Jewish Family Service and communal ways. To my surprise, my agency home for the past 10 years. With The pain which I’ve experienced as an often- once there, I gravitated to a group of deep awareness of acting to save a universe non-conforming individual in the rub and flow Jewish friends who assumed that their with each soul we assist, and helping each of Jewish community has informed my life and Jewish experience and identity were soul adhere to and draw strength from work, and my growth within Jewish communal theirs to make. Together with them, I the framework of communally-determined service has fostered meaning and purpose. My discovered that attending services we derech eretz, we maintain sensitivity and Jewish life and career are built around the often were responsible for organizing and dedication to individuals who struggle constructive but undeniably stressful tension – carrying out, performing social and with personal dignity, identity and needs in Judaism as well as more generally – between religious mitzvot we had to choose, in the context of larger groups. I have the individual and the community. arrange and account for, studying never felt so Jewish or so privileged as I grew up, before divorce became common, history and tradition and making its an individual as when I advocate for and as the daughter of a divorced woman whose relevance our own responsibility was work with individuals, family groups and culturally Jewish (but not observant) and a Judaism that offered me something, organizations to heal and become more fractious family cared for her and us three kids instead of just making demands. fully both themselves and aspects of a 315.454.0518 even when there seemed to be no place for us in Threshing out my Jewish identity as greater whole. Art Diamond, owner

March 2021 | jewishfederationcny.org 11 COMMUNITY

to 15 is designed to ensure an effective vaccine for children to Not All HEROES Wear Capes prevent them from getting sick Federation’s Super Hero Super Sunday featured a variety of masked, caped and spreading the virus to more and fanciful super heroes, but as our emcee Arel Moodie frequently reminded vulnerable populations. viewers and participants, not all heroic deeds are done by fictional characters. Some of the participants in The JO is pleased to share with readers news of some wonderful young people the study receive a vaccine and who grew up in our community and who are now doing amazingly heroic work others get a placebo. “I decided in other parts of the country. to do the Pfizer Covid-19 Youth trial for a couple of reasons,“ Jackie Martin is a staff photojournalist said Owen, who had to make a with the Associated Press. Born in two-year commitment to the Syracuse, Jackie attended the Syracuse study. “I have heard a lot about Hebrew Day School, the Epstein School vaccine trials being held before and graduated with honors in 2001 from and how revolutionary those the Rochester Institute of Technology. vaccines have become. I wanted For the AP in Washington, D.C. she to become part of history, covers a diverse range of topics from and have a say in the most the President and Congress to the Jackie Martin important thing (COVID-19) National Spelling Bee. Her work has been that has happened this year and last. I knew that they honored with awards from the White needed kids ages 12-15 to do the trial and since I am House News Photographers Association, healthy and fit all of their criteria, I jumped right on.” and the National Press Photographers Volunteers are required to provide blood samples Association. Jackie is the acting Dr. Daniel Blatt up to two years after receiving the vaccine/placebo director of Women Photojournalists of and might be seen up to ten times during the study Washington (WPOW, a non-profit that Owen Reckess is 12 years old. He period. The two-year time frame for the study allows educates the public about the work of is participating in a Pfizer/BioNTech researchers to assess the safety and long-term immune female photojournalists. People don’t clinical trial at Upstate Medical response. For seven days after receiving the placebo/ generally associate a photojournalist’s University evaluating the safety and study vaccine, participants must complete a daily role with danger, but the insurrection at performance of a potential vaccine e-diary recording any specific reactions. the capital demonstrated that there are against COVID-19. The randomized, Owen added another important factor in his times when bearing witness to events placebo-controlled and observer- decision to participate in the trial. “My Jewish ancestry can be very risky, especially as in this blind study is being conducted influenced me a lot in making this decision. My great- case, when people are inflamed not just by Upstate’s Institute for Global grandma, Sarah Tuller, who passed away last year, was against the government but against the Health and Translational Science. a Holocaust survivor. She would have loved that I was media.” Although Jackie was never in The testing of adolescents ages 12 Owen Reckess doing this and that I was helping further along science.” danger, she has taken an active role in providing emergency protective gear for her photojournalist colleagues. Dr. Daniel Blatt, a Pediatric Infectious Diseases physicianat Norton Children’s Errata Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky is The photos of Cheryl Schotz and Barbara Miller working to find effective treatments were left out of last month’s story about Jewish for a new type of illness, called Long- realtors. The real estate story was sponsored by RAV COVID, that affects children who received Properties. The Jewish Observer regrets the errors. a confirmed or suspected diagnosis of Cheryl Schotz, a leader in the Jewish philanthropic COVID-19 and who suffer fatigue, body community, is also a leader in the real estate community. ache, headache and loss of smell and She is a relocation specialist, helping people new to the taste for months afterward. “It was very area get acclimated and find services. The new Jewish Cheryl Schotz, Barbara Miller easy to see there was an uptick in children client who moves to the area is especially fortunate if who had these symptoms,” says Dr. Blatt. Cheryl is their realtor because she is very knowledgeable more satisfying “than knowing my clients are happy, and that Dr. Blatt, a Central New York native and about what the area has to offer. She serves on the boards I have helped them successfully reach their goals.” She has graduate of the Syracuse Hebrew Day of the Federation, the Jewish Community Foundation a quarter-century of experience in the purchase and sale of School and the Epstein School, notes that and Menorah Park. If she doesn’t know the answer to residential real estate in the eastern suburbs of Syracuse. Barbara health professionals don’t have a lot of a question, “I will do the research to find out where is particularly interested in architecture and old historic homes experience with this syndrome, but his they can connect.” Cheryl is also a new construction and loves “to showcase the beauty and history of these homes.” new clinic is working to change that, specialist, buyer/broker specialist and first homeowner Over the years, she has helped numerous Jewish families through providing pediatric infectious disease specialist at Howard Hanna. “I love helping clients the process of buying and selling a home. Her appreciation of professionals to work one-on-one with find their dream home and introducing them to the tikkun olam, “the need to be responsible for the welfare of my patients. “We have people who have as wonderful opportunities afforded us in this area.” She community,” has influenced her in one specific way: “Finding much experience as anyone dealing with loves meeting new people and never gets bored. “Every group homes for special needs children has been a very gratifying COVID,” he notes. “That should give some deal is different,” she says, “and I adore negotiating.” experience for me, and I hope to continue to be involved in this solace that, if your child is sick, we will For Arquette Realtors’ Barbara Miller, nothing is special and meaningful goal.” help take care of them.” 12 jewishfederationcny.org | March 2021 COMMUNITY » Community Businesses Smith Housewares The Jewish Observer is proud to feature businesses owned by members of our community. This column is generously sponsored by RAV Properties. and Restaurant Supply The aroma encompasses you the minute you set foot in the store. For a coffee lover, it’s like heaven. Hyman Smith Coffee is a division of Smith Housewares and Dalton’s American Decorative Arts Restaurant Supply, a 127-year-old 5th generation family business that recently moved from a nineteenth century building on Townsend Street to 3140 Erie Dalton’s American Decorative Arts is located at 1931 James Street in a Boulevard East. Its owner, John Kuppermann, is the great-grandson of Smith’s nicely-decorated but unprepossessing building on a not-well-traveled portion founder, Hyman Smith, who began the business selling kitchenware from a of James Street in the Eastwood neighborhood of Syracuse. You are not likely horse-drawn cart between Syracuse and Utica back in 1894. John’s great-great- to be walking past it any time soon. Should you stumble upon it by accident, a grandfather and great-grandfather then moved the company to a storefront in most unlikely occurrence, you might be quite taken with the beautiful furniture their home on Grape Street and eventually to the Townsend Street building, where pieces you see through the windows. Should you be tempted to enter with the it thrived since 1946. thought of making a purchase, be aware: this is not your average antique shop If you like to cook and have a or furniture store. “I just sold a piece for $2,200 this morning to a customer in limited budget, watch out! Smith California,” says David Rudd, Dalton’s founder and CEO, “and a customer in Restaurant Supply has everything – Wellesley, Massachusetts just called about this $4,500 table.” and we do mean everything – that you could possibly want to cook with, Dalton’s specializes in works all of the finest quality, reasonably from the American Arts and Crafts priced, in every imaginable size and Movement that ran from the 1890’s all begging to be taken home to your to approximately 1920. Gustav kitchen where you could create the Stickley, L&JG Stickley, Roycroft, most amazing dishes. Approximately Limbert, Rohlfs and other producers 18,000 items in inventory are of mission oak furniture are the contained in its public showroom. focus of this unique shop since its Smith’s is a versatile company with founding four decades ago. David many departments. They carry small and Debbie display at shows in major appliances, cookware and bakeware, cities, loading up a big truck and home brewing and bar supplies, pizza staging their displays with precision & pasta-making supplies, glassware & in the field. “Our family business isn’t just a and aesthetic appeal. Nothing is dinnerware, cutlery, cake decorating coffee experience,” he says, “It is a cultural jumbled or hodgepodge at Dalton’s. supplies along with cake boxes and experience. In a world of diluted coffee and Their well-photographed inventory cupcake containers in a wide variety, trendy lattes, Hyman Smith Coffee has been can also be seen on their website cookie cutters, and maple-sugaring providing CNY with freshly roasted coffees www.daltons.com. supplies, and much more. There is from all over the world for 36 years. We offer David Rudd and Debbie Goldwein also has a unique vintage section exquisite flavors with our specialty coffees, had separate careers, but when named Smitty’s Curiosities where you coffee brewing and preparation supplies, and their private collecting grew into can find Onondaga Pottery, Syracuse accessories.” The company has become one the opening of this unique gallery China, Fiestaware, Pfaltzgraff, crystal of the premier individual and commercial Dalton’s is the home of high-end, in 1981, their careers began to among other finds. suppliers of coffee throughout Syracuse and museum-quality, incredibly beautiful antique merge. They now share equally the And then there’s the coffee. the surrounding 50-mile radius. “Our family furnishings and decorations. Pieces carry responsibilities of operating the John Kuppermann is a passionate business isn’t just a coffee experience,” says discrete price tags in the thousands with gallery. David has been a private enthusiast about well-crafted coffee Kuppermann, “it is a cultural ‘Signature Coffee some affordable pieces as well. A visitor consultant to several major east and has over thirty years of experience Blends that Invigorate the Senses Experience.’” exclaimed at the beauty of a revolving coast auction houses, is a regular desk by Charles Rohlfs, which was listed contributor to American Bungalow at $98,000. “This should be in a museum!” magazine, is past president of the “Most of his pieces are,” replied David, Central New York Arts and Crafts I am ready to help who is extremely knowledgeable about the Society and currently serves as Happy Passover with your Real Estate needs history of the items Dalton’s sells and the president of the board of the Gustav historical period in which they were created. Stickley House Foundation. Debbie Stay Well, Stay Safe Having fallen in love with their first piece previously served on the board of of Stickley furniture many years ago, David the Stickley Museum at Craftsman and Debbie Goldwein, husband and wife, Farms in New Jersey. As CFO of LAURIE KUSHNER now offer both beginning and experienced Dalton’s, she ensures the stable Licensed Real Estate Salesperson collectors carefully-selected original- operation of the gallery on a daily 315-420-2668 condition furniture, pottery, photography, basis and contributes to Dalton’s realestatebylauriekushner.com art and metalwork. Their clients are not only position as one of the most trusted local. Most are from around the country and and experienced sources for Arts benefit from David’s unique combination of and Crafts objects in America. experience, knowledge of forms, discerning judgment and the finest selection available. March 2021 | jewishfederationcny.org 13 PASSOVER

     

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14 jewishfederationcny.org | March 2021 PASSOVER Passover in Other Times and Places Passover is one of Judaism’s most important and significant holidays, filled with customs and traditions that vary from country to country, family to family. In the 21st century, it is easy to forget how difficult and even dangerous it once was for Jews to celebrate Passover. During the Spanish Inquisition, for example, those who secretly “celebrate the festival of unleavened bread, beginning by eating lettuce, celery or other bitter herbs on those days,” if discovered, were arrested, tortured and often put to death. Today few Jews face this kind of risk when preparing for their seders, but when the JO asked some of the members of our community about the Passovers of their countries of origin, we got a stark and sober reminder that we can never really take freedom for granted.

Tamara David was born in Rumania. Orit Antosh grew up in Ramat She left when she was eight years old. “I did Chen in Israel and came to the not know I was Jewish,” she recalls. “There United States in 1989. She learned were no customs. My great-grandparents to cook from her Grandma Miriam were religious, but war and communism Neiman, who was a Holocaust had no connection to religion. I have survivor. She and Orit’s Grandpa no memories of any holiday. We never Nathaniel came to Israel after the had a seder until I made it. I wanted my Holocaust from Hungary. They child to have memories and roots.” She came with nothing and opened a started to learn about Judaism when she breakfast and lunch restaurant in got married and worked in a day school Tel Aviv at which David Ben Gurion in . When her daughter was loved to eat. For Passover, Orit born, “I wanted customs and traditions. enjoys making charoset according My in-laws celebrated with us. My only to a variety of ethnic recipes from old family custom is my mother-in-law’s around the world. “It brings a sweet meat dish for Rosh Hashanah.” Joe David, Tamara’s husband, was also born great sense of traditions, variety of in Rumania. His memories are, if anything, even harsher. His Passover tradition ingredients, aroma and a sense of belonging,” she explains. Orit shares some of her was to eat whatever his mother was able to find. “You lined up and hoped there recipes (translated from Hebrew) with JO readers in memory of her grandparents was something to buy.” and suggests that “a great way to serve the charoset is by making small balls and rolling them in crushed pistachios, crushed peanuts or coconut flakes Lucy Kleiner grew up in Ukraine. Here is her on top of a square ceramic gas and putting them on endive.” story, in her own words: “Growing up in the heater that heated my, my sister’s Lebanese Charoset former Soviet Union, I knew very little about and Grandma’s common bedroom. 3 apples, grated Passover. I was born in the city of Lviv in Ukraine, Chicken soup with mandlen was 3/4 cup hazelnuts where lived people of different ethnicities usually cooked for Passover and, of 1/2 cup pecans and faiths: Ukrainian, Russian, Polish, Jewish, course, homemade . The 1 t cinnamon Armenian and others. The population of Lviv gefilte fish was made from carp. ¼ cup marsala wine in the early fifties of the previous century was Grandma would trust me to chop 2 T honey around half a million. There was a Catholic the fish flesh with a special round 10 dried figs cathedral in the downtown, a few Eastern knife with a wooden handle. She 1/4 cup maraschino or candied Orthodox churches and one synagogue (which also baked a delicious honey cake, cherries was closed later). However, none of the religions allowing me to mix the dough. Grind all ingredients in a food had many followers, especially among younger “My husband, I and our two-year processor until a uniform puree is people. Grandma attended the synagogue once old son emigrated to the United obtained. Add grated apples and store a year, for Yom Kippur. My parents worked, and States in 1979. With happiness, we the mixture in a jar in the refrigerator. their jobs would be in danger if they were seen at the synagogue. The legal government started to attend a synagogue and holidays were the New Year, the International Women’s Day (March 8), the Day of gained some knowledge about the Yemenite Charoset Workers’ Solidarity (May 1), and the Day of October Socialist Revolution (November Jewish holidays and our religion. • 30 dates without seeds, finely 7). Religious holidays were not officially celebrated and practically prohibited. My parents, sister, and Grandma chopped “All that I remember from my childhood about Passover is a tribute to my joined me in Syracuse in 1981. It • 10 dried figs, finely chopped grandmother Klara, the only one of my four grandparents who had survived the was a happy reunion. Grandma was • 3/4 cup mix nuts, chopped Second World War. I knew that Passover is a holiday of spring and rebirth and it too frail to attend services. She • 1/2 cup almonds, chopped happens around Easter. It was not in the calendar and you would not hear about it in dreamed to live to attend my sons’ • 3 T seeds the news. The same was true about Easter. But the older generation knew the dates. On bar mitzvah ceremonies but was • 1/2 t ground ginger Easter, our old neighbor, Galina, would bake a round (egg bread with raisins) and terminally ill in the hospital at that • 1 t cinnamon take it to the church. Grandma would get together with Jewish women at somebody’s time. The last wish she conveyed • 1/2 t ground cardamom house to pray and would manage to get matzos. Matzos were baked at a friend’s house. to me was to be buried in a Jewish • 1/2 cup sweet red wine One day, Grandma took me to a little matzo bakery in her friends’ basement. I do not cemetery. Grandma passed away in Mix all ingredients well except the think it was a legal enterprise because I was told to be quiet about it. 1991 and was laid to rest at the Beth wine. Then add wine gradually until a “I saw a short moving conveyer belt with a thin layer of dough on it and Sholom cemetery. I continue to visit uniform mixture is obtained. some device, resembling a sewing machine, making small holes in the dough. In her and share with her my joys and our apartment, matzos would be kept in a white cotton pillowcase and placed sorrows.” Continued »

March 2021 | jewishfederationcny.org 15 PASSOVER Passover in Other Times and Places

husk, etc. These impurities would Diane Sacks was born and raised in , , Danish be dropped in the apron stretched Johannesburg, South Africa, with a large herring, pineapple herring. Many between the knees. (It should be and loving family. “Although we did not kilograms of hake were turned into noted that rice is not one of the follow kashrut guidelines in our kitchen, gefilte fish, fried fish, fish cakes (a grains prohibited during Passover. we had a traditionally Jewish upbringing. fried version of gefilte fish) and a There are five such grains namely My parents and grandparents, were born dish called mock crayfish (similar wheat, barley, spelt, rye and oats. in South Africa, except my grandmother to lobster salad). Ashkenazim do not eat rice because in on my mom’s side, who was born in “I remember my mom roasting eastern Europe rice was transported Poland. Her family was part of the with wheat, and in order to avoid approximately 35,000 Lithuanian Jews running the risk of inadvertently who moved to escape pogroms back eating wheat, rice was banned.) home. “Others customs were observed “Granny Reg brought with her the at the seder table. The shank-bone Ashkenazi food traditions. I have the is a whole unbroken L-shaped lamb fondest memories of our family joining bone. Haroseth is made of dates to for the chagim. Granny Reg, the matriarch, produce a reddish, ochre-coloured would herd us into the kitchen days before Anick Sinclair’s father, Rony Sabah, paste which resembles more closely to help with the preparation. On Passover, was a diplomat with the European Union, the colour of the earth in Egypt, the menus would include the traditional and Anick grew up in various African which our forefathers used to make chicken soup and kneidlach (matza balls), countries depending on his postings. Now bricks during their period of slavery. many different kinds of herring, p’tcha retired in , Anick’s father helped After reciting the and the (calf’s foot jelly), fish dishes, brisket, her remember some of the customs of their opening blessings, the afikoman is roast potatoes and homemade . Passovers: “Our family hails from Egypt. hidden. At this point the remaining Everything was handmade on Passover We were asked to leave in the aftermath whole matza is wrapped in a cloth because there was no other option. There the shank bone and burning the of the Suez war in 1956. Both my parents to look like a bundle. The bundle were none of the kasher l’Pesach products shell of a boiled egg to include came from Sephardi background. Passover is then passed in turn to each manufactured today. In fact, my mom on the seder plate. With the meal has strong traditions and customs, some individual. He/she would be asked instilled in us the belief that during prepared and the tables set to of which were observed prior to the to answer two questions: Where do Passover, we did not have cold drinks perfection with all the traditional festival. In the month preceding Passover, you come from? Egypt. Where are (soda), sweets (candy) and certainly no Passover trimmings, our very large the kosher butcher would isolate the you going to? Jerusalem. This was cakes. My mom would buy Liqui-fruit, family would sit together as my animals and fowl earmarked for slaughter. to emphasize the element of the fresh juices in various flavors. For me, this dad led the seder. Grandparents, These animals would not be fed any food journey, since as mentioned in the belief made Passover more meaningful parents, siblings, aunts and uncles, prohibited during the festival. In the Haggada we each individually, in because of the ‘sacrifice’ that we would cousins and friends enjoyed weeks preceding the seder, the women ourselves, must feel as if we actually make and the dishes that we would only listening to the story, reciting of the family – aunts and grandmother left Egypt. One minor custom make and eat during this chag. the four questions and of course – would gather in our kitchen to clean related to eating the eggs. These “Apples are used in many dishes during searching for the Afikomen. I feel the rice. They would sit round the table, were eaten after the second seder Passover. They are added to sweeten the a touch of nostalgia in the pit of each wearing a clean apron. A heap of and primarily reserved for girls of traditional haroset and add sweetness my tummy as I remember these rice would be tipped in the middle of the marriageable age as a good omen for and crunch to various herring dishes as family occasions and appreciate table. The ladies would remove, by hand, future nuptials.” well. Many of the dishes included in the the traditions.” any impurities such as small stone, rice Passover meal included fish: chopped

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16 jewishfederationcny.org | March 2021 JCC JCC Preschoolers Battle JCC Kids Sports Classes the Winter Blues Start Mid-March

When the winter weather is bad, one thing that can help lift spirits is to As places and activities continue learn something new. That’s exactly what the preschoolers in Classroom 8 at to reopen from the coronavirus the JCC of Syracuse’s Jerome and Phyllis Charney Early Childhood Development pandemic, the Sam Pomeranz Jewish Program did recently. The class got to explore the fascinating world of oceans Community Center will soon be and sea creatures through a variety of hands-on and interactive stations. From offering another round of classes touching and squeezing slime (non-toxic, of course) to painting pictures of aimed at getting boys and girls dolphins, the students interacted with underwater worlds in creative ways physically active. without ever leaving their classroom. Weekday gymnastics and other sports The JCC’s Jerome and Phyllis Charney Early Childhood Development Program classes for kids this spring will be is a comprehensive childcare facility and preschool rooted in Judaic teachings and starting up the week of March 22 and run traditions, serving infants six weeks old through pre-K children. Registration is through early-June 2021, at the JCC. The currently open for the 2021-2022 school year. For more information and to schedule classes are open to the JCC’s enrolled a tour, call 315-445-2040, ext. 120, or visit www.jccsyr.org. early childhood program preschoolers and to local school-age children in the community. “We continue to offer many great classes for kids of all abilities in a to children from any surrounding school safe and healthy manner,” said Sherri district. All school-age students must Lamanna, JCC director of gymnastics, undergo a health check before each class, dance and preschool physical education. wear a mask and follow strict health and “We follow all CDC and New York State safety guidelines while attending class. health and safety guidelines while Enrollment for all classes is currently making it fun for the children to learn open and will continue through the start and sharpen their skills.” of each class. JCC membership is not The preschool classes have been open required for school-age classes, however only to JCC early childhood program members receive a discount. For more preschoolers since the fall due to the information about the JCC’s classes for coronavirus. Registration is by classroom children, contact Sherri Lamanna at in order to keep groups of children 315-445-2040, ext. 126, or slamanna@ separate. School-age classes are open jccsyr.org, or visit www.jccsyr.org.

From left, Naomi Rosenberg, Kendall Brescia and Milania Sarno work together to paint in the outline of a dolphin mural. JCC Staffers Certified to Provide CPR Training The Sam Pomeranz Jewish Community Center no longer has to rely on outside organizations to bring cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and other health training classes to its employees. In January, the JCC’s Pamela Ranieri, director of children’s programming, and Amy Bisnett, associate director of children’s programming, became certified to provide infant, child and adult CPR/AED training as well as first aid training. This will allow the JCC to train its current staff and any new employees more easily going forward. “I am delighted that we can now train our own staff on a variety of emergency and life-saving techniques,” said JCC Executive Director Marci Erlebacher. “This will be very helpful in getting more of our staff certified while also saving time and money. We can also open up our trainings to outside individuals to help serve the community’s needs. It’s a win-win situation for the JCC, our members, visitors and the community.” In addition, Ranieri and Bisnett are certified to teach a babysitter’s class and basic Gavin Schloss digs deep into comforting Olivia Iorio discovers the wet, clammy and life support CPR/AED. They also successfully completed an extra course allowing sensations of the sand and seashells sensory box. calming sensations of blue slime. them to train JCC summer camp staff in professional rescuer infant, child and adult CPR and first aid. Another JCC staffer, Taylor Roadarmel, head lifeguard, has been Please Patronize Our Advertisers Say “I Saw It in the JO!” certified to provide lifeguard training. She will soon begin training all of the JCC’s new and returning lifeguards for this upcoming pool season. We urge our readers to support the companies and individuals who support us. “It’s reassuring that we now have so much more control over how and when we can Every advertiser is important. We appreciate their loyalty and ongoing support. provide such important training to our own staff,” said Ranieri. “Even with so many Please patronize those who partner with us, through the JO, to make our Jewish unknowns still out there due to the pandemic, at least we know that our CPR training community ever better. is covered going into this summer.” March 2021 | jewishfederationcny.org 17 SCHOOLS First Grade SUPERHEROES Kids value kindness. Asked to nominate their Super Heroes for Super Hero Super Sunday, the students of Ms. Yvonne Fix’s first grade at the Syracuse Hebrew Day School did not turn to the world of cartoons and movies. Instead, they drew pictures of those who exemplify compassion and consideration. In a world too often filled with anger, hate and violence, perhaps we all need to listen to the voices of children who echo Rashi’s words: “The world exists for the sake of kindness.”

My cousin Molly is my superhero! My parents are my superheroes! My superheroes are my two best My super hero is my Mom bee cuz she She loves me. (Abe) friends Bella and Rose. I love them. They save lives! They are both doctors. (Lyra) is kind and loveing. (Izzy) (Eliana)

Carlin is my super hero. He makes fun messes for me. My super hero is my neighbor Miss Anne. My Super hero is my BFF. I love her! She sews Barbie blankets for me. (Violet) She is kind, so kind. (Danya)

Izzy is my superhero because she is kind and loving. (Lielle) My mom is a nurse. My mom is my Superhero. My parents are my super heroes! She saves lives! (Reuben) They keep me safe. (Grace)

18 jewishfederationcny.org | March 2021 SCHOOLS

» SHDS Alumni Profiles Samantha Levy, SHDS ‘10

Samantha Levy has always had a lot of energy, so it is no surprise to those who know her that she has accomplished so much in her 22 years. She graduated from Johns Hopkins University with a degree in political science and a minor in economics. While an undergraduate, she was a cross country and track and field athlete with the university’s cross country national championship team, earning many records and becoming a two-time All-American. She also participated in a range of internships including the Borgen Project, a nonprofit fighting global poverty, where she lobbied and built support for poverty- reduction and education legislation in Congress; Tzav Pius in Jerusalem, where and her passion for the political arena led she wrote several successful substantial her to the defense and intelligence field. grant applications and RippleMatch, Sam clearly loves what she is doing. “Getting where as a growth marketing intern, the opportunity to immerse myself in the she strategically assessed performance wisdom of top officials and strategists has metrics to help design new growth been the culmination of a lifetime of hard strategies for the company. work and dreaming,” she says. Sam then took a position as an intern Sam credits the Day School’s in the office of the Maryland U.S. Senator “expectation of excellence” with bringing Chris Van Hollen, and was asked to stay out “my competitive instincts and my drive on as a full-time staff assistant following to succeed. The environment served me well the internship. She conducted constituent in the years after, not only academically, casework on both federal and local issues, but personally and professionally.” She advised veterans, immigrants and other also notes that “the personal touches of constituents on federal case issues and the adults at the day school had long- completed wide-ranging project research lasting impacts. I had a serious skiing and management including comprehensive accident when I was a student and was in a guides for COVID-19 relief and resource wheelchair for an extended period of time. assistance. The ability to come back to school was Currently, Sam is enrolled in Hopkins’ due wholly to the work of everyone there, Towne Center School of Advanced International Studies and the care that was exhibited is just one pursuing a dual concentration master’s example of the way in which the Day School degree in strategic studies and international conducts itself and helps to shape its kids economics. Her experiences in government for the future.” Celebrate Your Best Life. Wishing You a Happy Passover from Towne Center! CHRISTIAN BROTHERS ACADEMY At Towne Center we offer more than just a community we offer worryfree independent retirement living Designed exclusively for adults ƒƒ and over we take care Wishing you a of everything with one monthly price and no buyin fee Happy and Healthy Passover! so you can enjoy the good things in life Christian Brothers Academy is a Catholic Lasallian college preparatory school serving young men and women of diverse faiths and cultures. The administration and staff provide students with a safe, nurturing environment that fosters spiritual, intellectual, physical, Call today to schedule a private tour! emotional, and social growth by encouraging them to achieve excellence and to live as moral, responsible, contributing, and successful members of society.   6245 RANDALL ROAD | SYRACUSE, NY 13214 | (315) 446-5960 | CBASYRACUSE.ORG  Medical Center Drive  Fayetteville NY   TowneCenterRetirementcom

March 2021 | jewishfederationcny.org 19 EZKERA / REMEMBERING

IRVING WAGNER RONALD WEINBERG SHIRLEY MILLER facility in The Bronx, New York. Hundreds January 7, 2021 January 14, 2021 KAY of newly-minted WAVES went through January 27, 2021 training under Specialist First Class, Irving Wagner, 97, died January 7, 2021 Ronald Weinberg, known fondly to his Shirley Miller. Discharged in late 1945, at St. Joseph’s Hospital. Born June 1, 1923 friends and family as Ron, Ronnie, Dad and The last member of she ran into Manny in January. He had just in Lithuania to David and Anna Wagner, Pop Pop, aged 68, passed away peacefully a long-time Syracuse arrived home from service in India. They he had been a resident of Syracuse since on January 14, 2021. family, Shirley Miller were married in May. childhood. During his professional career He was born in Brooklyn, NY on Kay, died Wednesday With their two young children, they he was a cattle dealer in Adams, NY. Irving February 28, 1952 to William ‘Bill’ and of natural causes. She was 102. moved to the Washington, DC area, was also a licensed real estate broker Pearl Weinberg. Pearl was happy that he The daughter of Morris Miller, an remaining there until they returned to specializing in farms. wasn’t a leap year baby. immigrant from the Russian empire, Syracuse in 1970. During the time away, Irving met the love of his life, Louise, He met his wife Shelley in high school, and Libbie Sebelowitz Miller, a Syracuse Shirley went to work at the University of while she was a student at Syracuse and they were inseparable ever since, native, Shirley Hannah Miller was born Maryland as the office manager at the University. They were married and made celebrating 47 years of marriage. He in November 1918, a few weeks after the Counseling Center. For almost ten years, Syracuse their home. Irving was a member graduated from SUNY Buffalo and pursued end of WWI. She had three older sisters, she was the first face a student in need of Temple Adath Yeshurun. his medical studies in Guadalajara, Mexico. Charlotte, Neoma and Thelma, the latter might encounter. Irving will forever be remembered for He completed medical school in 1977 and two notably lived to be over 100, and two A new job for Manny sent him to New his love of his family, poetry, writing, golf, returned with Shelley to Brooklyn, where younger brothers, Raymond and David. York City and Shirley made plans to join his wonderful sense of humor and his they had their first child, Andrew “Andy,” Another brother, Charles, died in infancy. him. However, Manny became ill and died kindness. He was an adoring husband to while completing his internal medicine They lived in the Wescott Street in 1974. Shirley worked a variety of jobs, his wife Louise of blessed memory. They residency at Monmouth Medical Center in neighborhood, with a large extended finally landing at Menter Real Estate, had been married for 58 years when she New Jersey. They relocated to New Jersey family throughout Syracuse. Shirley where she was the office manager for died in 2008. where they had another son, Brian. Ron attended Nottingham High School and was nearly twenty years. Once again, hers was Irving is survived by his children Steven started his own private practice in Long energetic, participating in theater, athletics the first face seen upon entering, always (Julie) Wagner, Randy (Arie) Guthartz Branch. He was a beloved internist for 38 and music and was active at Temple Adath smiling and helpful. and Susan (Michael) Levy; grandchildren years and retired in March 2020. Yeshurun, eventually joining the choir. In retirement, she was always lively and Mikkel (Tom), Robyn (Robert), Joshua Ron loved music, historical novels, In the late 30s, Shirley met a transplant interested, even into her late 90s. She was (Maria), Daniel (Stephanie), Rachel skiing and relaxing poolside with family from Brooklyn, Emanuel Kay, a printer active in the Temple Adath sisterhood and (fiance Mike) and Nicole (Steven); great- and friends. and newspaper editor. Manny and Shirley volunteered with various organizations. grandchildren Andrew, Mackenzie, Lily, He was predeceased by his parents became engaged, but sometime later she She spent winters in Florida with her Gracie, Olivia, Maya, Justin and Benjamin; Pearl and Bill Weinberg and his brother, broke it off. The beginning of World War II sisters, exploring all that world had to and his dear companion Norma Maddy. Mark Weinberg. He is survived by his found Shirley Miller working for her father, offer. She even tried parasailing in the He was also pre-deceased by his longtime wife, Shelley and his two sons Andy (and a furrier on E. Jefferson Street. In March Gulf. Even when it was no longer easy companion Git Radin. Carolyn) and Brian (and Craig), and his 1943 she decided to apply to join the newly to travel, she played bridge weekly at the The family gives heartfelt thanks to grandchildren Isabella, Gabriel and Aiden formed U. S. Navy Women’s Reserves Town of Dewitt and was a fixture at senior his compassionate caregiver Joyce for her Weinberg. known as the WAVES. They promised, for lunches at the Jewish Community Center, dedication and care. In accordance with current health the first time, equal pay (and designer where she also often played Mahjong. Graveside services in Adath Yeshurun guidelines, a private graveside service and uniforms). According to the Herald- Shirley was extraordinary. She harbored Cemetery were for the immediate family burial were held for the family in New Journal, announcing her acceptance as the no prejudice or animosity of any sort, only. Contributions in his memory may be Jersey. first woman from Syracuse, she had to treating everyone equally well. She had made to The American Cancer Society. In lieu of flowers, please feel free to have two pairs of oxfords, but had only one strongly-held opinions, but was unfailingly www.sisskindfuneralservice.com donate to either the American Heart ration coupon. The Navy issued a special respectful and accessible, offering Association or Monmouth Medical Center. “No. 17” coupon for her second pair. friendship to nearly everyone who wished www.sisskindfuneralservice.com After basic training in Iowa, she was to know her. Most people did. offered a chance to train recruits herself Shirley is survived by her sons, Jonathan and was assigned to the U.S. Navy Training (Donna) of West Sayville, New York and Jeremy (Jennifer Perkins) of Syracuse and Silver Spring, Maryland, three granddaughters, Marissa, Victoria and For over 86 years we continue to provide outstanding service in the most trying times. Rebecca, numerous beloved nieces and nephews and her dear friend of over 86 years, Ina Menter. Private services and burial for the immediate family were conducted in Beth El Cemetery. Contributions in Shirley’s memory may be sent to Temple Adath Yeshurun Sisterhood, 450 Kimber Rd., Syracuse, NY 13224. funeral service, inc. Birnbaum Funeral Service, Inc. HAPPY PASSOVER Martin J. & Elaine R. Birnbaum Joel M. Friedman

1909 East Fayette Street • Syracuse, New York 13210 • 315-472-5291 • [email protected] • birnbaumfuneralserviceinc.com

20 jewishfederationcny.org | March 2021 EZKERA / REMEMBERING

TOBY NADEL DAVID ISADORE STERN January 18, 2021 January 22, 2021 David Isadore Stern, 66, succumbed to Toby Nadel, 86, COVID-19 on Friday, January 22, after a short Sisskind passed away on and heroic battle. January 18, 2021. He was born November 18th, 1954 in Funeral Service LLC Born in Linden, Utica, NY to Marilyn and Jack Stern. He spent NJ to George and his life in Utica amongst friends and family. Steven L. Sisskind Anna Nadel, he had been a resident of He went to JF Hughes grade school and Syracuse since 1956. graduated from Utica Free Academy. David Toby was a graduate of the five- worked at Tahan Furniture for more than 25 Entrusting a most sensitive time year program in architecture from years always exemplifying loyalty, dedication into compassionate hands Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. He and honesty. was a nationally renowned architect David, aka “The Commish,” was also an specializing in roofs. He loved his career avid and accomplished golfer and bowler. He and enjoyed sharing his adventures on was an inductee to the Utica Bowling Hall • Monument Consultation the buildings he designed. He was a of Fame. He enjoyed the sport with friends, member of AIA, The American Institute his brothers and, most of all, his nephews. • Pre-arrangements of Architects. He was an example of His devotion to his family was demonstrated excellence. by his kindness and willingness to be there He was predeceased by his parents, when needed, including helping his mother his sister Martha, twin brother Eli and until she passed away at age 84. brother David. His family includes He was fortunate to have a group of close 3175 E. Genesee Street his wife Margarete, his children Jay and devoted friends who always had his back Syracuse, NY 13224 (Phyllis) Nadel and Shari (John) while he had theirs: Peter Cahill, George 315-446-4848 Crouse; Margarete’s children Christina and Shelly Kelley, Gary Grabinski, and Al, [email protected] (Mark) Rotondo, John (Selina) James Bernadette and Jenny Tahan. www.sisskindfuneralservice.com and Elizabeth (John) Formoza, ten David is survived by his many nieces and grandchildren and three great- nephews, as well as his brothers and their grandchildren. spouses: Sam and Roxanne Stern of Sarasota, The family thanks the staff of the FL; Howard and Terry Stern of Rochester, NY; sixth floor at Upstate Community and Bob and Kathy Stern of Saratoga Springs, Hospital for the excellent care they NY. He will be deeply missed by his friends provided. and family. Graveside services in the Fayetteville A private graveside service for the Cemetery were for the immediate immediate family will be in Beth El cemetery, family. Contributions in Toby’s memory Whitesboro, with a memorial service to may be made to your local food bank. be scheduled in the spring when COVID www.sisskindfuneralservice.com restrictions allow. www.sisskindfuneralservice.com

RENEE GREENHOUSE SUSLOW February 1, 2021

Renee Greenhouse Suslow, 87, died peacefully Monday at her home. Renee was a life resident of Syracuse. She was born May 10, 1933 to William and Rose Greenhouse. When her husband Howard passed in November of 2019, they had been married for 61 wonderful years. Renee was a graduate of Sarah Lawrence College. She was a member of Lafayette Country Club and Temple Adath Yeshurun and was a life member of Hadassah. Renee will forever be remembered for her devotion to her family, especially “her girls,” her tenacity, her wit and her daily completion of the New York Times crossword puzzle - in ink. She had a love for music and was a skilled piano player. She is survived by her daughters and their husbands, Wendy and Marc Rudofker, and Lisa and Michael Wachs; her grandchildren Dr. Eric (Maggie Fitzgerald) Rudofker, Adam Rudofker, Adam Wachs and Danielle (Shelby) Rosenberg; her great-granddaughters Jocelyn Rosenberg and Noa Rudofker. Private graveside services were in Adath Yeshurun Cemetery. Contributions in her memory may be made to Temple Adath Yeshurun. www.sisskindfuneralservice.com

March 2021 | jewishfederationcny.org 21 Jewish Observerof Central New York