WESTCHESTER October 2020 -- Tishrei- Cheshvan 5781, Volume 26, Issue 10

1994-2019

JewishWESTCHESTER COUNTY’S ONLY MONTHLY JEWISHLife NEWSPAPER Lincoln Park Jewish Center Deeply Mourns Torah Theft BY STEPHEN E. LIPKEN the robber was wear- of the building. ing a Harvard Univer- “The Torah had a white cover, Lincoln Park Jewish Center, sity tee shirt, had a commemorating Board Member Sid- Yonkers (LPJC) suffered the loss of a beard and appeared to ney Goldman’s 90th birthday,” Sch- precious Torah prior to the Yom Kip- be Caucasian. weizer continued. “The scroll’s fad- pur Holiday, according to LPJC Presi- “On the day of the ing lettering was recently repaired. dent Jack Schweizer. theft, he first came in Our Torah is approximately 100 years “The incident happened on at 12:50 p.m. then left old. The Universal Torah Registry was Friday afternoon, September 25th, the building. The sur- queried and the missing Torah was about 4:50 p.m.,” Schweizer noted. veillance shows that not recorded. “The perpetrator took the Torah and he went around to the “It is an ongoing investigation. a Tallit in addition to a laptop com- door to the left of the The Yonkers Police are looking into puter, guitar, and articles of clothing property and walked the case aggressively and the LPJC belonging to a LPJC member. around. He probably community is hopeful that the Torah “The alleged thief changed into scoped out the build- will be recovered and the perpetra- the clothing, dumped his initial out- ing for a means of tor apprehended. Of course, the Con- fit into a trash bin and left approxi- access into the syna- gregation was very upset, especially mately an hour later in which we have gogue and found a since it was just before Yom Kippur video surveillance, at 5:50 p.m., short- weak point. We are and we had to use another Torah ly before the Shabbat Service. Our during the Shabbat Services. They re- surveillance and investigated around not sure how he got in from the Small Chapel,” Schweizer caretaker called the Police who came ceived a Flash Drive from LPJC’s video the building. On the day of the theft, and appears that he knew the layout concluded. Lowey and Fortenberry Discuss Middle East Partnership for Peace Act BY STEPHEN E. LIPKEN business and economic development Palestinians,” Appropriations Chair Task Forces to improve the West Bank Lowey stressed. “It really breaks my On Monday, September 21st, economy and to improve Israeli-Pal- heart to be leaving at a time when we Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY) estinian business cooperation.” are nowhere close to that reality. That and Congressman Jeff Fortenberry Rayman asked Appropriations is why it is so important for me to in- (R-NE) discussed their virtual bi-par- Committee member Fortenberry, clude the Middle East Partnership tisan conversation on the Middle East “What was the genesis for the Middle for Peace Act of 2020 in the FY 2021 Partnership for Peace Act, an initia- East Partners in Peace Act?” Forten- State and Foreign Appropriations Bill tive aimed at building new partner- berry replied, “[Regarding] a road which passed the House this summer. ships between Israeli and Palestin- map to peace, before there is a road “The legislation will authorize ian business leaders and civil society there has to a foundation to the road, $50 million dollars for each of the five organizations in a Zoom meeting, pre-conditions that have to be laid Fiscal Years to be divided between sponsored in part by AJC Advocacy down which create the means for US Agency for International Devel- Anywhere and Jewish Insider. trust, interactivity, interdependence, opment (USAID) and DF Corporation The Program was moderated by dialogue…,” Fortenberry replied, with a 13-member advisory board ap- Julie Rayman, AJC Deputy Director of pointing to new tools, particularly De- pointed by Congress to make recom- Policy and Diplomatic Affairs. “This velopment Finance to sustain health mendations to USAID.” legislation is extremely important to and well-being for all people. He rec- Fortenberry concluded that AJC…,” Rayman began. “Throughout ommended changing Development rather than funding huge infrastruc- our history AJC has worked to build Finance to Development Diplomacy ture projects, DFC will advocate part- bridges between Israelis and Pales- to sustain human relationships rath- nerships between agriculture and tinian groups, believing that coopera- er than merely business transactions. small business, engaging people be- tion is essential to regional security “I have often said that I could yond transaction levels to promote and a two-state solution.” not leave Congress until peace was Congresswoman Nita Lowey goodwill and harmony. “We have established several achieved between Israel and the Visit www.westchesterjewishlife.com. Temple Shaaray Tefila Finds Silver Linings During These Challenging Times Temple ShaarayTefila in that gave them a sense of “be- in July) would be addressing Shaaray Tefila had more than and emotional and engaging Bedford, one of the area’s larg- ing home,” while also opening the congregation from the pul- 100 temple members sub- sermons from both the new est Reform Congregations, had our doors to the larger com- pit during the High Holy Days. mit videos of spiritual read- Senior Rabbi David Wilfond the same dilemma synagogues munity”, said Alli West, Execu- The collective minds of ings, honors to the Torah and and founding Rabbi Emeritus across the world were facing tive Director. the Shaaray Tefila clergy, staff, heartfelt messages of peace David Greenberg. This unique during this global pandemic: it Moving from the en- board of directors and devoted and good wishes for the New combination of familiarity and was tasked with creating what chanting tents of Caramoor congregants set out to meet Year. This included a cameo innovation engaged the con- one temple member referred in Katonah (where Shaaray this challenge and exceeded from Michael Douglas who, gregation as never before. to as the “Superbowl of Ser- Tefila has held its High Holy their goal by reaching over with his family, has been a Another long-time temple vices” for its congregation, a Day services for the past 30 double their normal audience member of Shaaray Tefila member said of her family’s group used to enjoying servic- years) to the small screen, the of congregants— more than since 2013. “Up close, partici- experience, “We felt that we es in person with fellow con- synagogue set out to create an 6000 people across the globe pation by members and their had come back home, singing gregants and their extended experience as meaningful and over the 10 days spanning Rosh families added another di- along (on- and off-key) with families. “We knew that we had welcoming as its traditional in- Hashanah to Yom Kippur. “It mension to the holidays that the words and melodies of sea- to create something unique, person services. This was also was important to honor our we never really had before. sons past. These services have engaging and inclusive, that to be the first year that the new traditions and at the same time How nice to be invited into given us the needed boost to drew our temple members in, Senior Rabbi (who only began expand our synagogue’s offer- Rabbi David Wilfond homes as part of our wor- recharge and rejuvenate dur- ship services,” said long-time ing these trying times.” ings to those who may not have member Bill Greene. It is not yet clear how had access in the past. We were Using the majestic Shaa- these new experiences will grateful to have an opportunity ray Tefila sanctuary and its carry forward into the new to engage a larger audience. bucolic 10-acre property as year. What the congregation Kids Eat For Hopefully, this will be a cata- a backdrop, the virtual ser- does know, however, is that lyst for increased membership vices featured world-class its Jewish community is flex- in the future,” said Temple musicians and incorporated ible, resilient and forward- $5.00 In October! President Karen Spiegel. multi-camera live streaming, thinking. As times inevitably How did Temple Shaa- pre-recorded readings from change, so too will Temple ray Tefila do this? During the congregants, pre-produced Shaaray Tefila and its devoted There’s no better time to CHICKEN TENDERS six weeks of pre-production, and live musical vignettes members. try some of our new Ben’s Kids Menu items! Hayes Presents Security Guide for GLAZED BBQ Faith-Based Institutions MEATBALLS BY STEPHEN E. LIPKEN

In light of the continu- ed person in facility. Ap- ing COVID-19 pandemic, Bill point designated COVID-19 coordinators. Be prepared NEW! During October, purchase any Hayes, Westchester/Bronx Security Manager of Com- to report infection to NY sandwich or entrée at regular munity Service Initiative Public Health Office and as- price in Ben’s dining (CSI) presented a virtual sist in contact tracing. FRANKS-N-JACKETS Re-Opening Guide for West- “Control entry. Limit room and select an chester Faith-Based Institu- entry points. All attendees item for $5.00 tions on Tuesday, Septem- should be screened,” Hayes from Ben’s Kids ber 15th. stressed. CSI is a joint project of Hayes emphasizes that Menu.* UJA, Jewish Community Re- singing should be restricted NEW! lations Council (JCRC) and to Cantor or celebrant, with Visit Ben’s today! Westchester Jewish Coun- 12-foot minimum spacing. cil (WJC). Evan Bernstein Because singing, chant- serves as CEO. CSI’s goal is ing and public speaking OFFER VALID OCTOBER 1-31, 2020 ONLY. to improve the physical se- William Hayes can lead to greater spread *Each $5.00 Kid’s Meal requires a separate regular price purchase of sandwich or entée. Offer valid October 1-31, curity of institutions, pro- of COVID-19, Dr. Howard 2020 for in-store dining only. No takeout. May not be combined with any other Ben’s special, coupon, discount, viding staff training, threat cal, human resources, insur- A. Zucker, New York State offer or Ben’s Friends Reward. Offer applies to children aged 10 and under. intelligence, assisting with ance…Designate people for Health Commissioner, sug- assessments and grant ap- specific and ongoing respon- gests that all officiants be RESTAURANT plications, and supplying sibilities. tested as close to the holi- real-time communications “Make sure that seating days as possible and self- that links Jewish institu- is appropriately spaced. Use isolate as much as possible. DELICATESSEN tions in our region as part of plexiglass shield between David Pollack, JCRC an Emergency Communica- clergy and congregation, Associate Director of Public BAR•CATERERS tions System. provide for adequate aisles… Policy and Security averred Hayes began by advo- Review your reopening steps that humming is better than Catering Hotline: 1-800-344-BENS cating Building Reopening with your insurer and legal singing. Teams. “Form a team,” Hayes counsel. Regarding traditional BensDeli.net • 914-468-BENS (2367) • We Are Kosher said. “Plan for any required communal activities, ser- 718 Central Park Avenue, Scarsdale, New York 10583 “Team members should symptom checking, health vices should be held out- cover relevant areas of ex- questionnaires or atten- side if possible, capped at UNDER RABBINICAL SUPERVISION DAILY © 2020 Ronald M. Dragoon pertise. Consider facility dance record keeping. Plan 50 participants, as far away management, legal, medi- response to possible infect- from others as possible. Westchester Jewish Life • October 2020 • Tishrei- Cheshvan 5781 • Page 2 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com ADL Releases Online Hate Index Report During this bitterly members of the U.S Con- categorized as antisemitic. Misinformation re- trolled by the Rothschild rubrics should cover a com- divisive 2020 U.S. presi- gress who are running for The findings of this report lated to Jewish Hungarian- family to benefit the Jewish prehensive set of tropes dential election season, it re-election. This analysis are based on a review of American financier and community. and phrases that are used becomes crucial to under- was aided by the Online 5,954 tweets directed at all philanthropist George So- Outside of antisemitic to target different identity stand the information that Hate Index (OHI), a tool 30 Jewish incumbents up ros, whose Open Society conspiracy theories, tropes, groups. Americans are exposed to currently in development for re-election on Novem- Foundations operates in the and misinformation, this Collect and share data online about political can- within the Anti-Defama- ber 3, 2020. The tweets in United States and abroad, sample set also includes on identity-based hate: De- didates and the topics they tion League (ADL) Center their sample were all post- constitutes an astounding content that employed veloping ways to counter are discussing. It is equally for Technology and Society ed between July 23, 2020 to 39 percent of all tweets tar- Explicit Antisemitic Lan- online hate requires that we important to explore how (CTS) that is being designed August 22, 2020. geting Jewish incumbents guage. While these only ac- know which groups are tar- online discourse might be to automate the process A large number of that were labeled Prob- counted for 7 percent of all geted, the extent to which used to intentionally dis- of detecting hate speech tweets questioned the loy- lematic in the sample set. Problematic tweets, Twitter they are targeted, and the tort information and cre- on online platforms. Ap- alty, honesty, ideology, and These tweets push a series has yet to remove them -- nature of the attacks. With- ate and exploit misgivings plied to Twitter in this faith of Jewish incumbents, of debunked antisemitic despite posts containing ex- out this information, it is about particular identity case study, OHI provided a making up 48 percent of all conspiracy theories tied to plicit forms of antisemitism impossible for platforms, groups based on religion, score for each tweet which tweets labeled as problem- Soros that violate the platform’s researchers, and civil so- race or other characteris- denote the confidence (in atic. There appears to be a Fifteen percent of Rules and Policiesi. ciety to address these tics. percentage terms) in clas- concerted effort at trying to tweets analyzed also in- Recommendations for problems in a way that is The Anti-Defamation sifying the subject tweet as portray Jewish incumbents cluded tropes related to the Social Media Companies: informed by empirical evi- League {ADL}has brought antisemitic. as less patriotic and more broad conspiracy theory Develop strong policies dence. together the topic of online This study presents a dishonest, due in part to that Jews control key po- and create distinct rubrics Improve both manual attempts to sow divisive- snapshot in time of “Prob- their Jewish background. litical, financial, and media for different forms of hate and automated processes ness and misinformation lematic” content, which Many of these tweets also systems and exploit them targeting marginalized and for classifying hate: In ad- around elections on the for the purposes of this re- claimed that Jewish incum- for their advantage to the minority groups: social me- dition to creating better one hand, and antisemi- port they have defined as bents are Communists and detriment of others. These dia companies must develop rubrics for specific forms tism on the other, in order including both antisemitic Marxists in hiding, claimed tweets allege that Jewish decision-making rubrics for of hate speech, social media to take a look at the type tweets as well as tweets dual loyalty of lawmakers, incumbents are part of the their content reviewers and platforms should assume of antisemitic tropes and that include antisemitic or questioned their Jewish “Deep State” or claim the AI tools that are tailored to greater responsibility to en- misinformation used to tropes but require more faith if they were seen pho- American political and fi- the needs of different iden- force their policies and to attack incumbent Jewish context to be definitively tographed next to Muslims. nancial systems are con- tity-based groups. These continued on page 15

Westchester Jewish Life • October 2020 • Tishrei- Cheshvan 5781 • Page 3 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com County Executive Latimer Deals with The Westchester Jewish Coalition for Immigration Brings Together Immigration Activists

Westchester Issues A new activist network The Migration BY H. POLLACK problem is the loss of nightmare. has been launched to mobilize Policy Institute, revenue. People are If this virus the Westchester Jewish com- 61,000 people As County Executive, George afraid. The county is flairs up again, we munity to advocate on behalf of living in West- Latimer is busy 24/7. Dealing with expected to deliver have to be able to con- immigrant communities. The chester County Westchester issues and now Covid services. The fear fac- trol it,” he shares. “We Westchester Jewish Coalition are undocu- 19, he says, “We have had no road tor reduces our rev- can’t sit on the side- for Immigration (WJCI) will mented. This is map to tell us how to navigate this enue by way of sales lines and do nothing.” connect and support the work approximately virus. No one is around from the tax. When people are The County of local organizations in the 6% of the coun- previous pandemic to explain how not confident,” Lat- Executives’ day is all immigration and refugee space ty’s total popu- to get through this. We have had imer suggests, “they about symbolism and will advocate for changes lation of 1 mil- to figure this out, but we are pro- don’t go out to shop, to and substance. He to current immigration policy lion people. It is gressing.” eat in restaurants, stay starts his day early on a national level and for state critical that we County Executive George With a team of people, in hotels and take part taking meetings and and local policies that benefit educate and in- Latimer Latimer explains how they got in recreational activi- phone and zoom immigrants and the commu- form the public through these past months. “This ties. With that, we can’t make up calls. He works throughout the day nities in which they live. Lead- on these impor- summer, we had to figure out how that revenue. Hopefully, things and into the night. ers and organizers of WJCI are tant issues. As to open the pools and sanitize will change when we get a vaccine. Latimer has been in elected members of synagogues and a collective, we Holly Rosen Fink them to keep the people safe. The “The County Government office since 1988. He has been a temples throughout Westches- know we can do ate at [email protected] County Government is here to is here to provide basic services. City Councilman, County Legisla- ter’s and will actively seek to so much more.” The Westchester Jew- look after the public health.” Property Taxes are off by a small tor and Chairman of the County expand its reach throughout The vision of WJCI con- ish Coalition for Immigration Though he had to close Play- amount. We are also dependent Board of Legislators, Assembly- the Jewish community. . sists of five goals including (WJCI) brings together immi- land for the summer because of on the State and Federal Govern- man and a State Senator. Now, as WJCI brings together ac- to: Promote a pro-immigrant gration activists in the West- the virus, Latimer mentions he ment,” he adds. County Executive, he has signed tivists who want to mobilize atmosphere and educate the chester Jewish community to and his team pivoted and came “The school system is a mas- a bill requiring term limits for his the Jewish community around Jewish and wider community; meet one another, share expe- up with the idea to bring drive-in sive challenge,” Latimer goes on to office. specific hands-on projects and Support refugee resettlement riences, exchange resources, movies to the area by using the say. “The County has been help- “From my standpoint, this advocacy issues, such as laws, in Westchester and provide information and contacts and parking lot to allow cars in and ing out schools as best we can. job is different than the others. policies and programs that support for local immigrant look for ways to support each have people watch a film from the We have provided public help, While in the other elected offices, lead to justice and opportunity communities and organiza- other’s work, to advocate for safety of their car. given PPE, contract tracing and I would sponsor legislation not al- for all immigrant groups. WJCI tions; Develop a network that changes to current immigra- “All the changes we made more. It’s much more difficult for ways seeing the end result. Now I plans to partner with other or- can mobilize the Jewish com- tion policy on a national level were in uncharted territory but children to learn while watching a get a chance to see things accom- ganizations within and beyond munity around specific proj- and for state and local policies we managed pretty well even screen. Good luck to teachers re- plished. But there is an upside and the Jewish community and ects and advocacy issues; Join that benefit immigrants and though we had to reduce events. minding young students to keep a downside to everything. invites all local congregations in coalitions with other organi- the communities in which There were no public ceremonies, their masks on! For the older “So far, we have accom- and organizations to sign on to zations within and beyond the they live. WJCI brings together everything was virtual. High School students, they want plished many things. Covid has this grassroots initiative. Jewish community; Support Jewish leaders to strengthen “As we look ahead to the social interaction. But, we cannot- made everything different and dif- “Westchester County is a pro-immigrant policies and the ties within the Jewish com- next year in Westchester, the real not open schools. It’s a logistical ficult. But, we do the best we can!” diverse community,” said Holly platforms at the national, state munity, and at the same time Rosen Fink, co-founder and and local level. establish an ongoing commu- member of the WJCI Board of Individuals, organiza- nication and action network. NY State to Honor the Life and Legacy of Justice Ruth Directors. “Approximately 25% tions and congregations are More information about the of our population derives from welcome to contact WJCI for organization is available at Bader Ginsburg other countries.” According to more information and to affili- www.wjci.org. Governor Andrew M. York mourns Justice Gins- Cuomo has announced that burg’s death, we remember The Bronfman Fellowship Announces 35th New York State will honor the proudly that she started her in- life and legacy of Justice Ruth credible journey right here in Bader Ginsburg with a statue Brooklyn. Her legacy will live Application Season in Brooklyn, her birthplace. on in the progress she created The Bronfman Fellow- with leading intellectuals, reli- The Governor will appoint a for our society, and this statue ship has announced that ap- gious and cultural leaders, and commission to select an artist will serve as a physical remind- plications are now being ac- educators, such as Matti Fried- and undergo a location selec- er of her many contributions cepted for the 35th year of man, Israeli-Canadian jour- tion process. to the America we know today this prestigious program. The nalist and author; Joy Ladin, “Justice Ruth Bader Gins- and as an inspiration for those Bronfman Fellowship selects transgender American poet; burg selflessly pursued truth who will continue to build on twenty-six outstanding North and Anthony Russell, Jewish and justice in a world of divi- her immense body of work for American teenagers for an in- African-American musician. sion, giving voice to the voice- generations to come.” tellectually challenging year With the guidance of a diverse less and uplifting those who The commission will be of programming that begins faculty of Rabbis and educa- were pushed aside by forces appointed in the coming days with a free, five-week trip to tors, the pluralistic group of of hate and indifference. As and, when formed, will pro- Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg Israel in the summer between Adam R. Bronfman Fellows have the opportunity a lawyer, jurist, and profes- vide recommendations to the the Fellows’ junior and senior to explore a wide range of Jew- sor, she redefined gender several bouts of cancer and Governor pertaining to the years of high school, followed deep thinkers, moral voices, ish texts, from classic religious equity and civil rights and en- was present every single day design, location and instal- by monthly virtual experi- and cultural creators. The pro- works to contemporary Israeli sured America lived up to her to participate in the strength- lation of the new memorial. ences and a winter and spring gram was founded by Edgar M. and American voices, using founding ideals — she was a ening and safeguarding of our The commission will initiate seminar in the U.S. The pro- Bronfman, z”l, formerly CEO them to spark conversations, monumental figure of equal- democracy. Her 27 years on broad outreach to the art com- gram educates and inspires of the Seagram Company Ltd. engage with stimulating exis- ity, and we can all agree that the court reshaped our under- munity, including contacting exceptional young Jews from and a visionary Jewish philan- tential questions, and achieve she deserves a monument in standing of the basic tenets of art institutions and organiza- diverse backgrounds to have thropist. a deeper understanding of her honor,” Governor Cuomo equality and justice. tions as well as direct artist a significant impact on the During the program’s themselves and one another. said. “She persevered despite “While the family of New outreach. world as community builders, seminars, the Fellows meet continued on page 5 Westchester Jewish Life • October 2020 • Tishrei- Cheshvan 5781 • Page 4 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com The U.S. Holocaust Knowledge and Awareness Survey Gideon Taylor, President Iowa, and Montana. • 36 percent of respondents The Claims Conference of the Conference on Jewish The states with the lowest cannot identify that the Ho- recently launched #NoDeny- Material Claims Against Ger- Holocaust Knowledge Scores locaust was associated with ingIt, a digital campaign in many (Claims Conference), are: Alaska, Delaware, Mary- World War II. which survivors, in personal announced the release of the land, New York, Georgia, Ha- • 34 percent of respondents and moving videos posted on- U.S. Millennial Holocaust waii, Louisiana, Florida, Mis- in New York believe the Ho- line, appeal directly to Face- Knowledge and Awareness sissippi, and Arkansas. locaust happened but the book CEO Mark Zuckerberg Survey, the first-ever 50-state In New York, several number of Jews who died – imploring him to remove survey on Holocaust knowl- specific survey findings are has been greatly exagger- Holocaust denial from his edge among Millennials and particularly stunning. For in- ated, the Holocaust is a myth platform. The survey findings Gen Z. The surprising state-by- stance, there were more than and did not happen, or are underscore the importance state results highlight a wor- 40,000 camps and ghettos unsure. the urgent need to understand rying lack of basic Holocaust during World War II, but of the • 65 percent of respondents that Holocaust denial is hate knowledge, a growing problem respondents in New York, 58 in New York believe there is speech and to remove denial of as fewer and fewer Holocaust percent cannot name a single antisemitism in the United this critical historic event. survivors – eyewitnesses to a one. Additionally, 60 percent States today; and 67 per- Survey Taskforce: A U.S. state-sponsored genocide – are quieting finding that nearly The study reveals that Wis- of respondents in New York do cent say they have seen Nazi Millennial Holocaust Knowl- alive to share the lessons of the 20 percent of Millennials and consin scores highest in Holo- not know that six million Jews symbols in their community edge and Awareness Survey Holocaust. Gen Z in New York feel the caust awareness among U.S. were killed during the Holo- and/or on social media plat- task force led by Claims Con- Nationally, there is a clear Jews caused the Holocaust. Millennials and Gen Z. Arkansas caust. forms in the last five years. ference Board member Mat- lack of awareness of key histor- “The results are both has the lowest Holocaust knowl- Other outcomes in New • 28 percent of respondents in thew Bronfman, was com- ical facts; 63 percent of all na- shocking and saddening and edge score , with less than 2-in- York include: New York believe it is accept- prised of Holocaust survivors tional survey respondents do they underscore why we 10 (17 percent) of Millennials and • When asked if they had seen able to hold neo-Nazi views. as well as historians and not know that six million Jews must act now while Holo- Gen Z meeting the Holocaust Holocaust denial or distor- • 62 percent of respondents in subject matter experts from were murdered and 36 percent caust survivors are still with knowledge criteria. tion on social media or else- New York report having nev- museums, educational institu- thought that “two million or us to voice their stories,” said In what might be consid- where online, 57 percent of er visited a Holocaust mu- tions and leading nonprofits fewer Jews” were killed during Gideon Taylor. “We need to ered a disturbing sign of the respondents in New York say seum in the United States. in the field of Holocaust edu- the Holocaust. Additionally, al- understand why we aren’t times, 59 percent of respondents they had. • 65 percent of respondents in cation, including Yad Vashem, though there were more than doing better in educating a indicate that they believe some- • 58 percent of respondents in New York believe Holocaust the United States Holocaust 40,000 camps and ghettos in younger generation about thing like the Holocaust could New York believe that some- education should be com- Memorial Museum, the Claims Europe during the Holocaust, the Holocaust and the les- happen again. thing like the Holocaust pulsory in school, and 79 Conference and George Wash- 48 percent of national survey sons of the past. This needs The states with the high- could happen again. percent say it is important ington University. respondents cannot name a to serve as a wake-up call to est Holocaust Knowledge Scores • 19 percent of respondents to keep teaching about the Survey Methodology and single one. us all, and as a road map of are: Wisconsin, Minnesota, in New York think the Jews Holocaust, in part, so that it Sample: The Holocaust Knowl- The state-by-state analy- where government officials Massachusetts, Maine, Kansas, caused the Holocaust. does not happen again. continued on page 11 sis yielded a particularly dis- need to act.” Nebraska, Pennsylvania, Idaho, The Bronfman Fellowship Announces 35th Application Season continued from page 4 Fellows also interact with “My father, Edgar M. key roles in fields such as social a group of Israeli peers who Bronfman, placed enormous justice, academia, law, and the were chosen through a paral- faith in young people’s abil- arts. There are now over 1,300 lel selection process by the Is- ity to see the world not just Bronfman Fellowship alumni raeli branch of the Fellowship, as it is, but as it ought to across North America and Israel. Amitei Bronfman. They have be,” said Adam R. Bronfman, Among them are 7 Rhodes Schol- the opportunity to participate President of The Samuel ars, 4 former Supreme Court in the Fellowship’s arts tracks: Bronfman Foundation. “He clerks, 18 Fulbright Scholars, 36 workshops in poetry, drama, believed that young people Wexner Fellows and 27 Dorot visual narrative, and music energized by their Judaism Fellows. taught by leading innovators were best equipped to both Fellows have found that in the field of Jewish art. Upon shape a Jewish ‘Renaissance’ participation in The Fellowship returning home from the sum- and improve the world.” has helped them in their college mer in Israel, Fellows also ex- “The Fellowship is an application process. More than plore major themes in North opportunity for dynamic per- 50% of Fellows go on to attend American Jewish life. sonal and intellectual growth Ivy League universities. This past summer, The in a group of carefully chosen Applications for the 2021 Bronfman Fellowship con- peers,” said Becky Voorwinde, Fellowship are due December 3, ducted a successful virtual Executive Director. “We seek 2020, and are available online at program for its 2020 cohort. to increase communication bronfman.org. High school stu- It is the Fellowship’s hope that between young people across dents in the United States and the 2021 Fellowship year will the Jewish spectrum includ- Canada who self-identify as Jew- proceed normally and that ing fostering bonds between ish and who will be in the twelfth Fellows will be able to meet in Jews in North America and grade in the fall of 2021 are eli- person and travel to Israel. If Israel. This program serves gible to apply. The Fellowship international travel is not pos- as a creative force that has in- is a pluralistic program for Jews sible, the Fellowship will con- spired some of our best Jew- of all backgrounds; prior Jewish tinue to provide Fellows with ish young adults to become education is not required. Stu- a powerful, transformative creative leaders in their com- dents are chosen on merit alone. experience through domestic munities.” For more information travel options and/or virtual Alumni of The Bron- about The Bronfman Fellow- programming, as the current fman Fellowship are leaders ship, including how to apply, health situation warrants. in their community, playing visit www.bronfman.org. Westchester Jewish Life • October 2020 • Tishrei- Cheshvan 5781 • Page 5 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Sounding the Shofar Around Pelham The Jewish Museum to Reopen BY BARBARA SAUNDERS-ADAMS let me use their churches. They Following over six observed, “Rachel Feinstein were excited to be able to sup- months of closure due to the — artist, fashion muse, moth- For Rabbi Alex Salzberg port us in this moment, and COVID-19 pandemic, the Jew- er — confects fanciful works of The Pelham Jewish Center clearly found it to be meaning- ish Museum will reopen to that have a core of steel. She is {PJC}, the highlight of the days of ful themselves. I thought that the public on Thursday, Oc- known for her extravagantly reflection leading up to the Jew- climbing to the roof of church- tober 1, 2020. All visitors will detailed fantasy sculptures, ish New Year 5781, was the op- es would be fun, a story that I enjoy free admission through installations and paintings.” portunity to sound the shofar, a would get to tell over and over.” December 31, 2020, and be The Jewish Museum will ram’s horn, around Pelham. The Rabbi blew his Sho- able to see the new exhibition now be closed on Tuesdays, as “I knew, from the moment far at Pelham Jewish Center, (originally scheduled to open well as the usual Wednesdays. that I started thinking about Huguenot Memorial Church, in March), We Fight to Build a New hours for the Museum the High Holidays in a world of Julianne’s playground and St. Free World: An Exhibition by are Monday, Friday, Saturday, COVID, that the shofar would Catherine’s Church. When Rab- Jonathan Horowitz, as well and Sunday, 11 am – 4 pm; and have to play a central role in bi Salzberg looked out on the as Rachel Feinstein: Maiden, Thursday, 11 am – 8 pm. The how we mark this moment. This members of the PJC community Mother, Crone and Scenes Shop will be open Monday, was ironic, because without the and the Pelham neighbors, he from the Collection. Friday, and Sunday, 11 am – 4 proper precautions, sounding recognized the impact that it “Our remarkable staff pm; and Thursday, 11 am – 8 the shofar to a large audience is had on them, “it drove home the has been hard at work for artist who for three decades pm. The Shop will be closed a dangerous and irresponsible power of the shofar in a way that months planning a safe re- has made work that engages Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and act, with the ability to spread the nothing else ever has”. opening of the Jewish Mu- critically with politics and Saturdays. virus far and fast. So, I knew that According to Rabbi Salz- Rabbi Alex Salzberg seum,” Claudia Gould, Helen culture. Under his direction, In accordance with gov- we would need to be creative.” berg, “These moments have giv- We conclude the sounding Goldsmith Menschel Direc- the exhibition looks at how ernment regulations and Inspired by the plan of his en me joy and uplift in a time that of the shofar not with a standard tor of the Jewish Museum, artists have historically re- health guidance, visitors friend, Rabbi Adam Zagoria- I desperately needed them. They tekiah, but with a tekiah gedo- said. “Things may feel a little sponded to the rise of author- must reserve timed tickets Moffet, who sounded the shofar did this, not because they were a lah, a great blast. This expresses different, but one thing has itarianism and xenophobia and observe additional poli- from the tower of the cathedral reminder of normal times. These more than joy or happiness. not changed: the Jewish Mu- as well as racism, anti-Semi- cies as part of their visit: in his town in England, Rabbi times are not normal, and we do It points to the future and the seum is a place for everyone tism, and other forms of big- > Timed tickets are nec- Salzberg thought that he could ourselves a disservice when we joy that is possible in the year to engage with art and learn otry. The presentation also essary to help the Jewish bring the shofar to key locations pretend that they are. I was lifted that begins. The tekiah gedolah about the diversity of global addresses issues surrounding Museum maintain a building around the community as well. up through the power of the sho- reminds us that we can never Jewish culture. I’m extremely immigration, assimilation, capacity of 25% and a socially “It seemed like a fun idea, and a far and the realization that even surrender hope. Hope is what pleased that we can offer free and cultural identity. The distanced experience for all creative way to ensure that a lot in this impossible time, there carried our ancestors through admission through Decem- works selected draw connec- visitors. The Museum’s mem- of people could hear it”. is the possibility of connection impossible times in the past. ber 2020, making the Jewish tions between historical op- bers must also reserve timed What he was not prepared through creativity.” Hope is what allowed us to con- Museum accessible to all. We pression and the cultural and tickets. for, was the impact that it would The shofar reflects not ceive of resurrecting a Jewish cannot wait to welcome our political challenges we con- > All visitors are re- have, not only on the Jewish only our joy in coming togeth- state in the Land of Israel after visitors back.” front in the world today. quired to wear face coverings community, but on others liv- er on Rosh Hashanah, it also 2000 years without one. Hope Originally scheduled to Also on view, the first while in the Jewish Museum. ing in Pelham. The Rabbi said, “I evokes the sighs of our worries. is what will give us the strength open in March 2020, We Fight survey of New York-based art- Face coverings must ad- reached out to my fellow Pelham It echoes the cries of our grief. It to continue in our own lives and to Build a Free World is an ex- ist Rachel Feinstein features equately cover the nose and clergy and was surprised with reflects the gasps of our fear of our community through this hibition curated by Jonathan three decades of the artist’s mouth. how enthusiastic they were to the unknown. time as well. Horowitz, a New York-based work. As The New York Times continued on page 11 #MyPropertyStory: The Next Generations – The World Jewish Restitu- will be powerful additions to the easy access to one-click sharing feature: tory, travels to the home in Lodz, As the groundbreaking Jus- tion Organization (WJRO} has campaign. of WJRO’s moving videos, stories, • Lorraine Braun, daugh- Poland and speaks about encoun- tice for Uncompensated Survivors launched the second annual so- “Following the success of and photos on social media in ter of Holocaust survivors, talks tering resistance to her claims. Today (JUST) Act report recently cial media campaign, #MyProp- last year’s #MyPropertyStory English and Hebrew. There is also about the importance of con- She says, “Despite all the efforts I released by the US State Depart- ertyStory: The Next Generations, social media campaign, we are a general email address for any necting to her family’s ancestry. made and everyone I turned to in ment makes clear, many Euro- to shine a light on the unprec- honored to launch an expanded questions at mypropertystory@ Her late mother would often tell court, my saga of recovering the pean countries have not met their edented theft of property from version this year, focused on the wjro.org.il. stories about her life before the property is at a standstill.” commitments on Holocaust era Jewish people and communities children and grandchildren of the During the Holocaust, the Holocaust and speak about her • The video of Israeli Da- property restitution. The #My- during the Shoah and its after- survivors who lost so much,” said Nazis, their allies, and collabora- happy home and what it was like vid Kotek shows him visiting an PropertyStory campaign will help math. The campaign will run un- Gideon Taylor, Chair of Opera- tors systematically robbed mil- to have to abandon her home. In apartment building in Sosnow- elevate the issue so that Holocaust til October 11. tions, World Jewish Restitution lions of Jews of every possession 2012, Lorraine traveled with her iec, Poland that belonged to his survivors can seek a measure of Last year, tens of thousands Organization (WJRO). “This cam- from their homes and businesses, siblings, son, and extended fam- father and his aunt. It had been a justice during their lifetime. of people from around the world paign offers a unique opportunity as well as property belonging to ily to Királyhelmec in the Czech family home, carpentry and fac- WJRO represents world participated in the #MyPropert- for people to share and connect Jewish communities throughout Republic - the hometown of both tory. David expresses his excite- Jewry in pursuing claims for the yStory campaign. People engaged with one another – focusing on Europe. Each item represented her parents – to visit her mother’s ment about visiting the home be- recovery of Jewish properties in through social media in response how the injustices of lives that a cherished memory, a loved one, home because she says: “We felt cause he knew that after the war, Europe (outside of Germany and to stories of lives that were forever were forever changed by the a childhood cut short, a lifetime that it was our inheritance to try his grandfather, father and aunt Austria). WJRO was established changed by the Holocaust that Holocaust have affected Jewish of labor – generations of history to take back some of that sense all came together in the same spot by leading world Jewish organi- showed how their homes, land, families across generations.” – people’s lives that were taken. of joyfulness that existed in the after being liberated from con- zations to address the restitution businesses, and personal posses- WJRO is asking participants The #MyPropertyStory: The house.” centration camps. Four years ago, of Jewish property and to remind sions were powerful links to their to post their stories through vid- Next Generations social media • In another video, Israeli David found out that the building the world that the time has come pasts. eos, photos, statements, or draw- campaign will focus on survivors Shoshana Greenberg, a daughter was nationalized by the Commu- to redress the enormous mate- This year, 75 years after ings – via Facebook, Twitter, and/ and their descendants and their of a Holocaust survivor, who has nists. He believes, “The restitu- rial wrongs caused to European the Holocaust, the campaign or Instagram and include – #My- connection to their family history worked tirelessly to get all the tion of property [in Poland] will be Jewry during the Holocaust. For will also focus on children and PropertyStory and tag @WJRO- before and after the Shoah. documentation to prove she was a historical justice and will bring more information about the #My- grandchildren of survivors – The Restitution. People can also go The #MyPropertyStory: the rightful heir to her family’s Polish and Jewish people closer PropertyStory campaign, visit: Next Generations. Their stories to http://www.wjro.org.il/mps for The Next Generations interviews property including a textile fac- together.” wjro.org.il/mypropertystory.

Westchester Jewish Life • October 2020 • Tishrei- Cheshvan 5781 • Page 6 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com T:4.8" FIDF Gala Featured Israeli PM Netanyahu and Live Performances

FIDF National Chairman Rabbi Peter Weintraub.

Thousands of support- songwriter Idan Raichel also pledged $750,000; Genesis ers from across the globe performed live, as did the IDF Philanthropy Group pledged joined Friends of the Israel Musical Ensemble featuring $600,000; and the Iranian Defense Forces (FIDF) in sa- IDF soldier Eden Alena, who American Jewish Federation luting Israel’s brave soldiers will represent Israel in the pledged $600,000. and veterans on Septem- next Eurovision Song Contest. In addition, notable ber 13, at the first-ever vir- FIDF National Chairman among the gala’s donations tual FIDF National Gala. The Rabbi Peter Weintraub of was a pledge from FIDF’s ar- night’s 2020 FIDF National Scarsdale and Israeli-Ameri- dent supporters, Cheryl and Gala, themed “A Night of He- can actress, model, and host Haim Saban, who will match roes,” raised a total of over $15 Moran Atias presided as mas- donations up to $500,000, and million to support well-being ters of ceremonies. FIDF National Vice President and educational programs for Other distinguished Marc Perlman and his wife

Israel Defense Forces (IDF) guests who participated Claire, who will also match do- T:10" soldiers, with donations still in the gala included Israeli nations up to $500,000. That being made. Prime Minister Benjamin is a total match of $1 million, This FIDF initiative Netanyahu; Israel’s Alternate for which donations will be aimed to enable the global Prime Minister and Minis- ongoing post-gala. FIDF family to unite for an ter of Defense Lt. Gen. (Res.) “I have no words to ex- unprecedented night of giv- Benjamin (Benny) Gantz; IDF press my appreciation to this ing and extraordinary soli- Chief of the General Staff Lt. big, huge, and unique orga- Independence through darity, saluting Israel’s IDF Gen. Aviv Kochavi; Founder nization. I do not think that protectors, despite the limi- and Chairman of Christians anywhere in the world there tations posed by the Covid-19 United for Israel (CUFI) Pas- is another kind of ties and community. pandemic. tor John Hagee; and President organization like this. Thank The program featured and CEO of The International you from the bottom of my several segments to honor IDF Fellowship of Christians and heart,” said Kochavi. At RiverWalk, our residents are able to lead secure, soldiers, including Lone Sol- Jews (The Fellowship) Yael Funds raised at the gala diers, who join the IDF with Eckstein. FIDF National Di- will provide much-needed and independent lives because they’re surrounded by no immediate family in Israel. rector and CEO Maj. Gen. well-deserved services such a community of friends, neighbors and caring staff. Among those being recog- (Res.) Meir Klifi-Amir who as academic scholarships to Because at RiverWalk, we believe that being nized at the gala was a female will be succeeded this month combat veterans, financial as- Black Hawk Pilot, Cpt. T., who by incoming FIDF National sistance for soldiers in-need, independent means being a part of something bigger. participated in an opening Director and CEO Steven Weil support for Lone Soldiers segment called “Air, Land, - gave a farewell speech after throughout their service and SEE WHAT RIVERWALK COULD MEAN and Sea,” in which active-duty six years of unprecedented upon release, crucial aid for FOR YOU OR YOUR LOVED ONE. soldiers took the audience on organizational growth. wounded veterans and the a dynamic and action-packed “The great transforma- families of fallen soldiers, training mission. Another tion of our people’s history weeks of rest and recupera- Call 929-243-5776 for more details, or visit segment, focusing on one fam- took place when the Jewish tion for entire IDF units, as riverspringhealth.org/riverwalk14 for a virtual tour. ily’s multigenerational story, people restored the capacity well as educational, cultural, highlighted FIDF’s Witnesses to defend ourselves by our- and recreational facilities. in Uniform Program. selves. This is what the IDF is The evening presented a rare The gala featured a all about,” said Netanyahu. and exclusive opportunity live performance by global Among the major do- to pay tribute to the state of pop star and active IDF sol- nations, Nefesh B’Nefesh Israel and its brave men and dier Noa Kirel, who recently pledged $1.3 million; Broth- women in uniform. signed a deal with Atlantic ers for Life pledged $1 mil- To watch the full FIDF Records, the largest ever for lion; Or Lachayal pledged Virtual National Gala, visit: an Israeli artist. Israeli singer- $1 million; Momentum https://events.fidf.org/

Westchester Jewish Life • October 2020 • Tishrei- Cheshvan 5781 • Page 7 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com

RSH6706_RiverWalk_WestchesterJewishLife_FINAL.indd Westchester Jewish Life

Job Info Approvals Client River Spring Users FreelancerProd / FreelancerProd Art Director Job RSH 6706 Current Date 9-3-2020 3:28 PM Copywriter Creation Date 8-18-2020 3:07 PM Account MATERIALS PREPARED BY Live None Studio Artist Jovan Trim 4.8" x 10" Printed at None SEIDEN Proofreader 212.223.8700 Bleed None Page # 2 Project Mgr Meredith Inks Fonts Notes Gotham (Light, Medium, Medium Italic) Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black Images RSH_g-680410738_SNAP.psd (CMYK; 729 ppi; 41.15%), RiverWalk-SeniorApartments_4C.eps (27%) Round: FINAL Field Goods, a Hudson Valley Online Farmers Market, Delivers Farm Fresh Goods When Donna Williams moved to farm coun- just-picked produce, and an open up pickup sites with Field Goods and with Williams’ help, launched the try in the Hudson Valley from New York City, she array of the highest quality community organizations first Our Farmers Market in Westchester County was inspired to start offering Hudson Valley prod- dairy, grocery, meat and sea- like libraries and schools. A selling Field Goods products to families. Williams ucts to area consumers and businesses as a re- food offerings. Safeguarding cornerstone of these rela- describes the partnership with Saalman’s Mag- gional wellness concept in 2011. As a first step, she our health in the midst of a tionships is fundraiser pro- nolia Marketplace as a “wonderful educational developed relationships with a dozen area farmers pandemic is more impor- grams for non-profit organi- initiative to enable kids to lean into their passion to create Field Goods. Today, Field Goods, now the tant than ever and fresh, lo- zations. Today, Field Goods for business and sustainable local supply chains direct-to-consumer channel of Hudson Harvest, is cal food is fundamental to a can be found at over 200 by bringing farm-fresh produce to regions without an integral component in bringing regional pro- strong immune system and schools and libraries. farmers markets nearby.” Magnolia’s Marketplace duce and artisanal foods from 100 farmers and good health.” Giving back to com- also offers customers the option of receiving or- artisans to 4,000 customers from the Capital Dis- Williams began Field munities is a cornerstone of ders by going through a drive-thru pick up to mini- trict to Westchester County and is the area’s larg- Goods to bridge the distri- Field Goods’ model. Support- mize contact. est locally-focused food distributor in the Hudson bution gap between small ing regional food pantries has Founded in 2011 by Donna Williams, Field Valley region. farmers and consumers. been a long-term initiative Goods, LLC delivers to consumers from small, sus- “Vegetables and fruit are not the only things With one employee, she be- and this spring, Field Goods tainable farms and producers in New York, New being grown locally; it’s the economy, too,” said gan shuttling produce from offered free “Vote Local Jersey, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire, Williams. “Some farms have seen up to a 180 per- 80 farmers to 60 customers, Food” yard signs with orders Connecticut and Pennsylvania. Along with its par- cent increase in acreage after they partnered with working tirelessly to edu- and for each sign, donated ent company Hudson Harvest, Field Goods offers us. No one else on the East Coast is doing what we cate consumers about the $10 to The Food Pantries of a wide variety of products ranging from seasonal are doing at that scale.” connection between good Field Goods, LLC Founder and President Donna the Capital District. Field fruits and vegetables, artisanal cheeses and char- Buying thousands of dollars of farm-fresh food and good health. As a Williams stands near a company delivery van. Goods has recently created cuterie, bulk items, hand-crafted organic Sfoglini and artisanal products each week from Upstate former corporate executive, (Photo courtesy of Heidi Raker, Field Goods) two new programs that stem pasta to honeycomb, maple syrup and its own line New York into Vermont, Field Goods pivoted from Williams understood the from its commitment to of salsas and sauces. Today, Field Goods has over pick-up only to a safe, social-distanced home de- benefit of keeping employees healthy. She con- community causes, which have been heightened by 100 suppliers and delivers weekly to over 800 con- livery operation after Covid-19 to conveniently tacted human resource executives with the idea of the pandemic. “Our Farmers Market” is a program sumers. Field Goods is starting to resume its de- bring local food to the masses. “We’ve become a offering easy access to healthy food as a wellness for young people to create a turn-key farmers mar- liveries to the 4,000 customers that pick up their critical vehicle in creating the infrastructure to program and offered Field Goods as a 10-week ket for their community. The “Field Goods Gives” is orders at hundreds of business, YMCA, library, get products to market and helping farmers and subscription service called “BeetCamp” designed a program in which Field Goods makes donations to and school pickup locations located throughout producers to scale their sales and reach,” Wil- to encourage employees to eat healthier with com- participating organizations. the Hudson River Valley as well as Westchester liams said. “Field Goods is making it possible for panies donating $10 per order. Williams’ efforts in The goal for Williams, long before the pan- County, Fairfield County, Connecticut, and North- consumers to eat healthier, locally-sourced ingre- pitching HR departments resulted in partnerships demic gripped the globe, was to “build a commu- ern New Jersey. Field Goods offers more than 150 dients while giving food producers a consistent with companies such as Beech-Nut and Fujifilm as nity centered around nourishing ourselves, sup- varieties of seasonal produce, fresh or flash-fro- market on a year-round basis. Most importantly, well as hundreds of large and small companies. porting local growers and producers and fostering zen. Field Goods is committed to clean food and Field Goods is providing hyperlocal, healthful, From there, Williams developed relationships to a passion in the next generation for supporting ensures that its offerings are certified organic, regional agriculture. organically grown or low-spray. For more informa- In June, Valhalla High School student, Mag- tion, visit https://stockup.field-goods.com/. nolia Saalman, had the idea to create a market- To receive a discount place where her community could have easy ac- when ordering, use the code cess to local farmers products. She learned about WESTCHESTER10. Jewish National Fund’s Fall Reading Series

Based on popular demand, the Jewish National Fund is con- tinuing their Summer Reading Series into the Fall with a fabulous line-up of books and guests. Join IsraelCast host, Ste- ven Shalowitz, as he chats with dynamic authors and fields your questions. Books can be bought via Am- azon Smile! These books are also available at outlets like Audible, Google Play Books, or wherever you receive your audio or electron- ic books. On October 28, 2020 at 8:00 pm (ET) / 5:00 pm (PT), the book, Joan Nathan Zionism: The Concise History with Author Alex Ryvchin will be discussed. On November 18, 2020 at 8:00 pm (ET) / 5:00 pm (PT), The book, The Foods of Israel Today: More than 300 Recipes—and Memories—Reflecting Israel’s Past and Present Through Its Many Cuisines with Author Joan Nathan will be discussed. For more information, visit jnf.org/fallreadingseries or contact Sarah Cohen at sco- [email protected].

Westchester Jewish Life • October 2020 • Tishrei- Cheshvan 5781 • Page 8 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com UPWARD, NEW YORK.

Now is the moment we come together to lift up New York. The moment we help our city and our community get back on its feet.

Feeding families and helping them find employment. Making sure no one feels alone in their anxiety or grief. Sustaining our most treasured institutions — JCCs, synagogues, camps, day schools — so they can continue to be there for us.

We’re not just recovering. We’re building an even stronger, more resilient, more connected Jewish community.

Join us — we can’t do it without you. Let’s move upward.

Donate now. ujafedny.org

Westchester Jewish Life • October 2020 • Tishrei- Cheshvan 5781 • Page 9 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Mazel Tov Westchester Natives Meet in Israel as IDF U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum 2020 New Soldiers and Wed York ‘What You Do Matters’ Tribute Event Two Westchester natives, Margot Weiss- The United States Holocaust Memo- man of Rye/Harrison and Alexander Gruen- rial Museum has announced that Stacey stein of New Rochelle, met on a Tel Aviv beach Saiontz and Howard Unger of Chappaqua, while enlisted in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) both Bet Torah members, will be honored as Lone Soldiers, those who leave behind their on October 14 during the “What You Do home, family, and friends to serve in one of the Matters” 2020 New York Tribute Virtual world’s most dangerous war zones. Event. In their time in the IDF, both received on- Stacey Saiontz is the granddaughter going support from New-York based non-profit of Holocaust survivor, Jack Feldman, who Friends of the IDF (FIDF). FIDF provides Lone was featured in the HBO documentary, Soldiers support in the form of mentoring, fi- “The Number on Great Grandpa’s Arm,” nancial aid, flights to visit their families abroad, with Stacey’s son, Elliott. Stacey has cham- holiday gift packages, social gatherings, etc. Ac- pioned the cause of Holocaust education cording to FIDF, there are currently about 900 through her support of the U.S. Holocaust Lone Soldiers from across the US serving in the Memorial Museum by serving as a member IDF. of the Museum’s Education Committee and Alexander and Margot both attended Solo- as a founding member of the Museum’s mon Schechter School of Westchester, now New York Next Generation Board. She is the Leffell School, for elementary, middle, and also involved with the Auschwitz Jewish high school. However, the two did not date until photo credit goes to Frank and Natural Expressions NY Center Foundation, the Museum of Jewish meeting up in Israel after college, after they had Heritage and The Holocaust and Human both individually decided to draft to the IDF. Af- immediate family in Belle Harbor, Queens, in Rights Education Center. She is co-found- ter finishing the army, they moved back to the a private residence on the Beach. Two rabbis er of the New Castle Holocaust Memorial US where they both began their graduate profes- co-officiated the wedding: Rabbi Harry Pell, and the New Castle Holocaust and Human sional degrees. associate head of the Leffell School and Rabbi Rights Committee. The couple got engaged on June 15, 2019 Yaakov Bienenfeld of Young Israel of Harrison. Howard Unger is founder of the in- and decided to plan a wedding in the place they Over that weekend, they continued the celebra- vestment firm Saw Mill Capital. He grew fell in love, Israel, but had to cancel due to CO- tion with a small backyard party for cousins and up hearing the story of his father’s survival VID-19. With the date approaching and Margot close friends. of the Auschwitz and Dachau concentra- leaving for her final year of school, they decided Parents of the Groom and Bride: The Gruen- tion camps, which inspired him to become that they wanted to get married despite the dif- stein family, are members of Beth El Synagogue involved in bringing awareness to modern- ficult times. They had a 25-person wedding on Center, New Rochelle and the Weissman family, day genocide. Unger serves in many roles Stacey Saiontz and Howard Unger. photo credit Michael Priest Friday, July 31st with only aunts, uncles, and are members of Young Israel of Harrison. for the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum Photography including as: member of U.S. Holocaust Memorial Council’s Executive Committee, Facing challenges and opportunities as Cantor Anna Chapman May Becomes Cantor at Chair of the Audit Committee, member of the never before, the Museum continues to uphold Museum’s Committee on Conscience, Museum its mission to preserve the memory of the Ho- Greenburgh Hebrew Center Benefactor and member of the Museum’s Stra- locaust and bring its lessons to future genera- Cantor Anna Chapman May has become In 2018 she performed in the Dellheim tegic Advancement Committee. He is also on tions. the new Cantor at Greenburgh Hebrew Cen- cantorial concert, “From Bima to Broadway,” the Board of the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial Participants will see firsthand how the ter. She is passionate about Jewish music, at Congregation Beth Tzedec in Calgary, Foundation. Museum has adjusted to these extraordinary education and liturgy and Alberta. She has also per- On Wednesday, October 14 at 6 p.m., hun- times by bringing Holocaust education and graduated in May 2019 from formed in cantorial con- dreds of supporters in New York; Boston; Hart- awareness to audiences virtually, and how the H. L. Miller Cantorial certs at the Jewish Theo- ford, Conn.; New Jersey and across the North- the critical lessons of the Holocaust—lessons School at the Jewish Theo- logical Seminary and in New east region will unite virtually to support the about the fragility of freedom, the nature of logical Seminary. London, CT. She has also vital mission of the United States Holocaust hate and the consequences of indifference— A native New Yorker, worked as a chaplain at New Memorial Museum and hear from Ben Ferencz, remain vital. she grew up in Brooklyn York Presbyterian Brooklyn 100, the last surviving Nuremberg prosecutor Advance registration is required. Dona- and has spent most of her Methodist Hospital and at in a moving event, emceed by Diane von Furst- tions are encouraged. This is a free, online life here. The daughter of Project ORE, a program for enberg. event. The link will be provided to those who a classical pianist and a marginalized seniors. Her personal story is one of resilience. register. musicologist, she grew up Cantor May holds a BFA Born just 18 months after her mother was liber- Contact the U.S. Holocaust Memo- surrounded by music, play- in photography from New ated from Auschwitz, von Furstenberg says her rial Museum’s Northeast Regional Office at ing piano, and singing in York University, a M.S. in mother instilled a profound value in her that 212.983.0825 or [email protected] for choirs. She spent two years Art Education and Masters “fear is not an option,” which has informed her more information. living and working in Jeru- of Information Science from life choices. “As a daughter of a survivor, it is my A living memorial to the Holocaust, the salem, which is where she Queens College, and a Mas- duty to remind us to remember.” U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum inspires first began her studies of Cantor Anna Chapman May ters of Sacred music from The tribute will also share inspiring sto- citizens and leaders worldwide to confront cantorial music. Cantor May the Jewish Theological Semi- ries, celebrity readings from the Museum’s col- hatred, prevent genocide, and promote human has served as a student Can- nary. lections, and an opportunity to recognize and dignity. Its far-reaching educational programs tor at Congregation Brothers of Israel in New- She is married to Scott May, and cur- pay tribute to the New York Tribute Event’s and global impact are made possible by gener- town, PA. as well as Congregation Beth El in rently lives on the Upper East Side of Man- honorees from the past 10 years: ous donors. New London, CT. hattan. Westchester Jewish Life • October 2020 • Tishrei- Cheshvan 5781 • Page 10 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com The Jewish Museum to Reopen Museum of Jewish Heritage – A Living Memorial to the continued from page 6 > Temperature checks Russ & Daughters at the and ionizing air purifiers Holocaust Announces New Partnership to Integrate will be required of all visitors Jewish Museum will remain have been installed in eleva- via non-contact body temper- temporarily closed. For fur- tors. Hand sanitizer will be USC Shoah Foundation Data into JewishGen.org ature scanners. Visitors with ther information visit rus- available throughout the Mu- Known as the global home of death,” said Stephen Smith, Finci- its kind in the world. Currently a body temperature above sanddaughters.com. seum for visitors. Jewish Genealogy, JewishGen.org, Viterbi Executive Director at USC encompassing 115,000 hours of 100.4°F will not be admitted The Jewish Museum is Further information an affiliate of the Museum of Jew- Shoah Foundation. “We have video testimony, the archive is an into the Museum. They will also implementing enhanced regarding visitor guidelines ish Heritage - A Living Memorial partnered with JewishGen to help invaluable resource for human- assist those visitors in re- health and safety measures may be accessed at the The- to the Holocaust and housed on families researching their histo- ity, with nearly every testimony scheduling their visit. for visitors and staff. Fre- JewishMuseum.org/visit to site at the Museum, has launched ries to fill the void, reclaim their containing a complete personal > Visitors will be ex- quent enhanced cleaning and ensure a safe and enjoyable a new partnership to integrate an names and their pasts. Just to see history of life before, during, and pected to maintain six feet disinfection procedures have visit for everyone. index of data from nearly 50,000 a document with their name on a after the interviewee’s firsthand between other visitors or been instituted throughout Support of free admis- Jewish Holocaust survivor testi- list, can help restore them back to experience with genocide. The groups. Capacity signage will the Museum. These pro- sion is made possible in part monies found in USC Shoah Foun- humanity.” Visual History Archive is digi- be posted throughout the Mu- cedures are informed by by the Wilf Family Founda- dation’s Visual History Archive. All individuals listed in the tized, fully searchable, and hyper- seum and one-way paths des- the guidance issued to date tions. “JewishGen seeks to connect database link back to USC Shoah linked to the minute. This index- ignated through the galleries. by government and public Located on New York researchers with family informa- Foundation Visual History Ar- ing allows students, professors, >The coat check will be health authorities, includ- City’s famed Museum Mile, tion, while educating them about chive portal. More than 4,000 researchers, and others around closed for the safety of visitors ing the Centers for Disease The Jewish Museum is lo- the history, culture and values that of these interviews are viewable the world to retrieve entire testi- and staff. Visitors should plan Control and Prevention and cated at 1109 Fifth Avenue at defined the lives of our ancestors,” in video format via the internet, monies or search for specific sec- to wear (not carry) their coats the New York State and City 92nd Street, New York, NY. says JewishGen’s Executive Direc- while the remaining links lead to tions within testimonies through in the Museum. In addition, Departments of Health. Cen- The public may visit The- tor Avraham Groll. “As a result of biographical pages that may con- a set of 65,600 keywords and key large bags and oversized um- tral air filtration has been in- JewishMuseum.org or call this new partnership, invaluable tain slideshows of photos, maps, phrases, 1.95 million names, and brellas will not be permitted. creased to the MERV-13 level 212.423.3200. genealogical information will be or additional information essen- 719,000 images. made accessible to the Jewish ge- tial to those searching for relatives, Initially a repository of nealogical community, and a criti- tracing their lineage, or studying Holocaust testimony, the Visual cal sense of communal memory the Holocaust. History Archive has expanded Donate A Device. Do A Mitzvah. will be preserved and transmitted “JewishGen is one of the to include testimonies from the to future generations.” ways we continue to remember Armenian Genocide that coin- UJA Federation of New York- The biographical data is dis- and to educate,” says the Museum’s cided with World War I, the 1937 Westchester Region, has suggested coverable via more than 250,000 President & CEO Jack Kliger. “It is Nanjing Massacre in China, the that, “Now more than ever, we all need possible names and aliases — how we reaffirm Jewish life and its Cambodian Genocide of 1975- to be connected virtually. Our goal is which in turn contain information value, by committing to uncover 1979, the Guatemalan Genocide to provide devices that will be a life- on more than 600,000 additional each name and committing to re- of 1978-1983, the 1994 Genocide line for seniors and children in this relatives identified in survivor turn each name to its proper con- against the Tutsi in Rwanda, and unprecedented moment. Seniors will questionnaires. Data provided in text: the years, the place, and the the ongoing conflicts in the Cen- be able to connect to family members, the interviews contains potential- family to which it belonged.” tral African Republic and South friends, cultural and social programs, ly valuable sources of genealogical JewishGen offers archival Sudan, and anti-Rohingya mass and telehealth. Children will be able and family information, with de- collections, resources, and histori- violence. It also includes testimo- to fully connect to their classrooms tails that can include: Name, Place cal information at no charge to the nies about contemporary acts of for optimal learning.” of Birth, Date of Birth, Relation- community. The index to the Vi- violence against Jews. They are asking if you have an ship to Interviewee, If individual sual History Archive records can JewishGen.org, an affiliate extra device or would even like to purchase a new one, do a mitzvah and donate it to survived the Holocaust, Place of be freely accessed via the Jewish- of the Museum of Jewish Heri- someone in need. Death, and Date of Death. Gen Holocaust database (https:// tage - A Living Memorial to the UJA Federation of New York-Westchester Region, is collecting laptops, kindles and “We tend to forget that the www.jewishgen.org/databases/ Holocaust family, serves as the IPADS. Each device should be unlocked and have a SIM Card slot. All devices should ei- Holocaust was not only the mur- holocaust/). global home for Jewish geneal- ther be 4G or LTE models. der of Jewish people, but the at- USC Shoah Foundation’s ogy. Featuring an online archival Devices can be shipped from anywhere or dropped off if you reside in Westchester tempt at total erasure of their Visual History Archive® (VHA) collection containing millions of County. For more information on how to donate a device, contact Tali Strom at stromt@ names, their places of birth and is the largest digital collection of historical records. ujafedny.org

The Holocaust Knowledge and Awareness Study continued from page 5 edge and Awareness Study was The Conference on Jew- with the Claims Conference commissioned by the Claims ish Material Claims Against since 1952, the German gov- Conference. Data was collect- Germany (Claims Confer- ernment has paid more than ed in the United States and an- ence), a nonprofit organi- $80 billion in indemnification alyzed by Schoen Cooperman zation with offices in New to individuals for suffering Research, with a representa- York, Tel Aviv and Frankfurt and losses resulting from per- tive sample of 1,000 interviews secures material compensa- secution by the Nazis. In 2020, nationwide and 200 interviews tion for Holocaust survivors the Claims Conference will in each state with adults ages around the world. Founded distribute approximately $350 18 to 39 via landline, cell phone in 1951 by representatives of million in direct compensa- and online interviews. Respon- 23 major international Jew- tion to over 60,000 survivors dents were selected at random ish organizations, the Claims in 83 countries and allocate and constituted a demographi- Conference negotiates for and approximately $610 million cally representative sample disburses funds to individuals in grants to over 200 social of the Millennial population and organizations and seeks service agencies worldwide across each state. For more the return of Jewish property that provide vital services for information, visit: www.claim- stolen during the Holocaust. Holocaust survivors, such as scon.org As a result of negotiations homecare, food and medicine. Westchester Jewish Life • October 2020 • Tishrei- Cheshvan 5781 • Page 11 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Beneficiary Designations for Retirement Accounts BY BERNARD A. KROOKS, CERTIFIED ELDER LAW ATTORNEY wish to minimize income taxes. pay $35,000 in taxes and would net only $65,000 tions can be challenging, and it is important that If you are married, naming your spouse as from your retirement account. If you left the they be coordinated with the overall estate plan. Estate planning is so much more than fill- the beneficiary of your retirement plan is usu- $100,000 retirement account to a charity, the When reviewing and updating your estate plan, ing in the blanks on a few forms that you have ally (but not always, especially in a second mar- charity would net the entire $100,000; a much do not forget to include a discussion of all your printed out from the internet. In addition to riage situation), the best option. This is due to better result. You could leave your daughter beneficiary designations, including retirement having the proper documents and fiduciaries, the fact that a surviving spouse can “rollover” $100,000 from a non-retirement account and plans. So, think of your estate plan as a work-in- you need to make sure that the estate plan is co- your retirement account into his/her own which she would also net the entire $100,000. progress that will likely need a bit of fine-tuning ordinated so that your beneficiary designations typically leads to the best tax results. If you are The recently enacted SECURE Act made from time to time. do not upset what you think is a perfectly draft- re-married and have children from a prior mar- significant changes to retirement plan distri- Bernard A. Krooks, Esq., ed estate plan. For example, if your will leaves riage, there may be better options available to butions, including eliminating the stretch IRA, is a founding partner of Lit- everything to your son and daughter equally, you that would involve the use of a trust. How- except in the case of eligible designated benefi- tman Krooks LLP and has but your money is in a bank account that is joint ever, this area of the law is fraught with traps ciaries (EDB). An EDB is a spouse, disabled or been honored as one of the with your daughter, then she will inherit all the for the unwary so please make sure you proceed chronically ill individual, an individual who is “Best Lawyers” in America money in the joint bank account notwithstand- with a competent estate planning attorney. not more than 10 years younger than you or a for each of the last seven ing what the will says. If you have charitable intentions, leaving minor child. For EDBs, the stretch IRA still lives years. He is past President of Retirement account beneficiary designa- money to a charity from a retirement account is and can result in significant financial and tax the National Academy of El- tions present additional challenges due to the often an excellent choice since the charity will benefits to your family if all the relevant crite- der Law Attorneys (NAELA) fact that, for many clients, this is where the bulk not have to pay income taxes on the distribu- ria are met. However, please note that the rules and past President of the of their wealth is, and retirement plan custodi- tions from the retirement account after your are complicated, especially if you want to leave New York Chapter of NAELA. Mr. Krooks has ans often have their own set of internal rules death. Whereas, if you name an individual as your retirement accounts to a trust. A trust also served as chair of the Elder Law Section and policies that must be complied with. Thus, the beneficiary of your retirement account, he/ could be a good idea if you are concerned about of the New York State Bar Association. He has in many instances it is difficult to figure out how she will have to pay income taxes on the distri- protecting the retirement assets from the cost been selected as a “New York Super Lawyer” to complete your retirement account benefi- butions. Thus, if you leave your $100,000 retire- of long-term care of a disabled or chronically ill since 2006. Mr. Krooks may be reached at (914- ciary designation, especially if you have a living ment account to your daughter, depending on beneficiary. 684-2100) or by visiting the firm’s website at trust or would like to leave money to charity or her own personal tax situation, she may have to Retirement account beneficiary designa- www.elderlawnewyork.com. The Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center Offers Educational Programming At the Holocaust and Hu- members of the HHREC man Rights Education Center Second Generation {HHREC}, they are committed Community. The pur- to staying on track with their pose of the project is to educational programming, but create another genera- they continue to see an increase tion of witnesses to the in acts of hate in the community. atrocities of the Holo- Some acts are anti semitic, oth- caust. ers racially charged, but all are This fall, the re- violations of an individual’s fun- turn of the popular pro- damental human rights which gram, Memory Keepers make it imperative that commu- Cocktail Hour, will take nities be educated. place. This program al- HHREC will be hosting a lows Memory Keepers Virtual Annual Benefit, Genera- Sheila Arnold, History's Alive! sharing a story with to share their families tions Forward, Honoring Human middle school students Holocaust Stories virtu- Rights Leaders Past, Present, ally. Future, taking place on Thurs- cussion of Holy Silence, a docu- Safekeeping Sto- day, October 29th at 7pm.They mentary about Pope Pius XII and ries of the Holocaust Workshops will honor Congresswoman Nita what he did or did not do during will begin mid-October offered at Lowey, the HHREC Speakers Bu- the Holocaust. The screening will 3 different time slots, Wednesday reau, Survivors and Liberators, be followed by a panel discussion afternoons, Tuesday evenings and feature Derek Black as guest which will include the film’s di- and Sunday mornings. Debby speaker. To participate, contact rector, Steven Pressman. Ziering, Ellen Kaidanow and Bill Carly at [email protected] This year, HHREC will par- Zimmerman will be facilitating. On October 18th at 7pm, ticipate in the annual White Rose To learn more visit https://safe- HHREC will be screening the Student Essay Contest following keepingstories.com/workshops/ award-winning documentary, a prototype established by the holocaust-workshop/ or email Jill “The Labyrinth: The Testimony Midwest Center for Holocaust Sarkozi at jill@safekeepingsto- of Marian Kolodziej” followed by Education. The contest, open to ries.com a discussion with producer Fa- students in the area, Grade 8 and The Human Rights Insti- ther Ron Schmidt, a Jesuit priest above, is research and document- tute for Middle School Student and documentary filmmaker and based, historical in nature and re- Leaders will be held virtually on renowned Holocaust scholar Dr. quires reflection on an individual January 12th, 13th and 14th, 2021 Michael Berenbaum. who experienced the Holocaust. instead of the usual November On November 10th at 7:30 The High School Living dates. Middle School is a vital pm, the Annual Kristallnacht History Project will return for its time to teach students about the Commemoration in partnership second year later this fall. The importance of being an Upstand- with Iona College will be held vir- Living History Project connects er and respecting the individual. tually. The program will include High School Students (grades 10- For more information on a film screening and panel dis- 12) with Holocaust Survivors or these programs, visit hhrecny.org Westchester Jewish Life • October 2020 • Tishrei- Cheshvan 5781 • Page 12 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com County Executive George Latimer Seeks Nominations for the Senior Hall of Fame Do you know a senior who is making a posi- may be obtained online at westchestergov.com/se- All nominations will be reviewed by a judging event on Friday, December 4, 2020. The commu- tive difference in Westchester County through his niors. committee. nity will be invited to view this event for free from or her professional life, volunteer work or both? If To be nominated, a person must: Commissioner of the Department of Senior the County website, Facebook, YouTube and more. so, Westchester County Executive George Latimer • Be at least 60 years old and live in West- Programs and Services (DSPS) Mae Carpenter said DSPS, Westchester County Parks and the invites you to submit a nomination to the West- chester County. that the Seniors Hall of Fame is an important tra- Westchester Public/Private Partnership for Aging chester Senior Citizens Hall of Fame, now in its • Made significant contributions to im- dition, because the senior community has helped Services are hosting the gala. 38th year. prove life in the County. Westchester to become known for its excellent Submit your nominations online at westches- “The Senior Hall of Fame is a special tradition • Be an outstanding leader or advocate. quality of life. tergov.com/seniors or if you prefer to mail in your honoring seniors who give their time and energy to • Have professional achievements that “Today’s older generation molded a way of life nomination, contact Rose Cappa at rose@theevent- improve the quality of life in our communities,” Lat- reflect innovative solutions to fulfill unmet commu- that reflects the caring and generosity of its people,” departmentny.com or (914) 747-0519. Rose Cappa imer said. “While we may not be able to celebrate nity needs (if nomination is based on paid profes- Carpenter said. is also the contact to learn how to become a Senior our seniors in person this year, it is still important sional work). While an in-person celebration is not possible Hall of Fame sponsor or to sponsor a particular for us to shine a light on our peers who merit spe- *Note – Past Hall of Fame inductees are not eli- this year, every effort will be made to showcase the honoree. cial recognition for their contributions.” gible (see list of former inductees at westchestergov. inductees in an exciting new medium. Those select- For additional information, call (914) 813-6400 Nominations are due by October 16, 2020 and com/seniors) ed will be inducted during a multi-platform virtual or visit www.westchestergov.com/seniors.

Real Estate Matters by John E. Baer, SRES, SRS Virtual Home Buying Requires a Trustworthy and Knowledgeable Real Estate Agent and Home Inspector A recent Zillow survey finds 36 percent of Additionally, finishes, gutters and windows can- Keep in mind, your agent needs to be your eyes, the roof or HVAC system. Make sure that there Americans would be more likely to buy a home not be fully inspected from a virtual tour. Virtu- ears, sense of smell, and trusted surrogate. are not serious safety, electrical, mold, termite, entirely online during the current coronavirus al buyers cannot open closet doors and see how To begin with, your agent needs to convey buried oil tank, or foundation issues. Only a pro- outbreak than to physically see it. A Redfin study spacious they are, or touch and test appliances. to you his or her understanding of what features fessional home inspection will pick up these and released in late July found that 45% of people They cannot know if there are electrical, plumb- you want and the degree to which these features potentially other homeowner problems. If you who bought a home in the past year had made an ing, dampness, or leak issues, or if the floors are are within your price range. This is where the decide to buy a property on the strength of a vir- offer on a home they did not tour in person. That uneven or solid without visiting the home per- agent’s honesty, integrity, and knowledge of the tual tour and home inspection, make sure that was up from 28% of people surveyed around this sonally. In addition, although a virtual tour is far market are essential. Once the agent finds a you are satisfied with the inspection results. same time a year ago. more accurate than a photo, it is still difficult to property and community that meets the buyer’s Alternatively, simply do not make an offer until According to a new joint survey from real- accurately determine how much natural light a criteria, this is where attention to detail become you have seen the home in person. tor.com® and Toluna Insights, 24% of 1,300 con- home gets. so important. An honest agent needs to commu- sumers surveyed say they would be willing to Therefore, more than ever, if you are un- nicate the pros and cons of the home. The agent John E. Baer, SRES, buy a home without seeing it in person, and 30% able to personally visit a home, it is imperative must perform due diligence by making sure all SRS is a NYS licensed real es- would be willing to rent one. that you carefully select a trustworthy, honest, permits and certificates of occupancy are satis- tate salesperson associated Although virtual tours can be a great sub- and knowledgeable real estate agent. According fied. In addition to conducting an in-depth vir- with Berkshire Hathaway stitute when an in-person viewing is not possi- to a recent report from Properties Online, the tual tour of the home, the agent should equally HomeServices Westchester ble, there are many unique challenges. No mat- top qualities clients want in a real estate agent convey via video the immediate neighborhood Properties of Scarsdale and ter how high quality a video is, certain aspects are honesty and integrity (97%), responsive- and features of the community. Larchmont. In the last three of a home are difficult to convey without seeing ness (93%), knowledge of the real estate market Equally important when buying a home and a half years he earned them for yourself in person. Virtual buyers do (92%), and communication skills (86%). I would virtually is to have a contingency on a satisfacto- the month’s “Top Selling Award” nine times in the not know if parts of the house smell moldy or add three additional qualities, especially when ry home inspection. When reviewing the report Scarsdale office. He can be reached for questions like cigarette smoke, nor can they hear planes working with virtual buyers, 1) attention to de- pay particular attention to expensive parts of at 914/844-2059. His website is www.Westches- overhead or the neighbor’s dog barking all day. tail, 2) listening skills, and 3) negotiating skills. the home that could be in rough shape, such as terHomes.info. The Communal Trauma of Covid 19 BY MIRIAM AROND home while managing children’s remote learn- requirements, cannot attend day programs or In these unprecedented times, many LG- ing, social isolation, and rising anxiety and de- see family. BTQ+ youth have felt more isolated than usual, At Westchester Jewish Community Ser- pression. At WJCS, where we provide programs Poor communities and people of color as some feel “stuck” at home in families in which vices (WJCS), our human services agency has and services to over 20,000 people annually, we have been profoundly affected. We have seen they are not supported. We have conducted specialized in treating trauma since 1982 when, instantly pivoted to offering services virtually firsthand how problems relating to health, safe- virtual support groups for LGBTQ+ youth and what is now known as, the Trager Lemp Center: in cases when they could not be conducted in ty, food insecurity, childcare, grief, and isolation Trans youth and their parents. Individual coun- Treating Trauma & Promoting Resilience was person. Our goal has been to ensure that none of overwhelm already stretched coping skills and seling sessions have been provided to youth via founded. For over three decades we have helped our clients feel alone and abandoned, no matter resources. Our food drop offs to needy families Telehealth and in person. Center Lane facili- adult and child survivors of sexual abuse, do- how challenging the situation. in southwest Yonkers and other parts of West- tated Virtual Pride Camps on three topics: LG- mestic violence, and other traumas, provided Since COVID-19 began, our mental health chester enabled our clinical and peer staff to BTQ+ Identity, Healthy Relationships, and Isms vicarious trauma trainings to first responders, clinicians have provided 45,000+ telehealth engage with families in person with concrete & Intersectionality. case workers, and other individuals who are sessions, including individual and group coun- and supportive services. Our MOMs group for We are so thankful that, with the support in regular contact with traumatized individu- seling, psychiatric evaluation, and medication women impacted by domestic violence and the of our funders, we have been able to confront als, and educated organizations about the im- management, through secure video and/or tele- accompanying group for children who have wit- these challenges and help vulnerable families portance of and logistics involved in providing phone sessions. We have worked with our 40+ nessed domestic violence have been meeting and at-risk adolescents. As our clients often tell trauma-informed care. We have worked with partner synagogues and day schools to provide virtually. us, feeling connected to and supported by the synagogues and schools during times of great bereavement counseling at a time when tradi- Creating structure and providing enrich- community is what makes all the difference at communal trauma and provided care for people tional mourning rituals are prohibited, Mind- ment is so important for youth. We are proud this difficult time. affected by 9/11 and Hurricane Sandy. fulness Meditation and other spiritual work- that the WJCS Weiner Academy for Young Wom- Miriam Arond is Direc- Yet the trauma triggered by the COVID-19 shops by Zoom, and home-delivered kosher en successfully launched a summer camp for tor of Communications for pandemic is unlike one we’ve ever seen. It has food and support to aging Holocaust Survivors. girls that was held outdoors and, when weather WJCS. To learn more about affected every person in our county, country, At our 13 group homes for disabled adults, our was inclement, operated remotely. Campers services and programs pro- and world. People have faced illness, death of direct support professionals have provided participated in arts and crafts, group discus- vided by WJCS, go to www. loved ones, job loss, financial and food insecu- round-the-clock care, an especially challenging sions, scavenger hunts, physical activities, like wjcs.com. rity, parenting stress sparked by working from mission when residents, due to social distancing jumping rope, and weekly garden visits.

Westchester Jewish Life • October 2020 • Tishrei- Cheshvan 5781 • Page 13 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Business Cards $87. per issue. Prepaid only. Just mail us your Business Card and Full Payment and we’ll take care of the rest. Mail to: Classifieds Shoreline Publishing, 629 Fifth Ave., Suite 213, Pelham, N.Y. 10803 7 newspapers over 100,000 readers -- 1 price, prepaid $141.00 for 4 lines. Ad runs in 7 papers for 1 month. Make check payable to: Shoreline Publishing, Inc., 629 Fifth Avenue, Suite 213, Pelham, NY 10803

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Westchester Jewish Life • October 2020 • Tishrei- Cheshvan 5781 • Page 14 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com ADL Releases Online Hate Index Report Chabad of Bronxville Acknowledges Holiest Yom Kippur continued from page 3 BY HOWARD GOLDSTEIN tainly, attending services all of these acts. All of these and houses of study, precautions have been acts do so accurately at scale. studying the impacts of on- During this last half year praying with a minyan, of immeasurable kindness. Run Informational line hate: Congress should of the covid pandemic, it’s easy and bringing the extend- By not engaging in our usual Interventions on the plat- commission a report to to feel like we’ve done nothing ed family together for a and desired communal Jew- form: Companies should study how the online hate important as life became all holiday are great mitz- ish lives we have actually ob- experiment with a new set ecosystem impacts the about quarantining and social voth that help define tained immeasurable spiritu- of features that help us- election process, how mis- distancing. But these acts may Jewish life, but there is a al growth. We have all helped ers navigate the world of information sways voters, have been the most important still greater mitzvah that to save countless lives; count- disinformation. They can and how aspiring political mitzvot of our times. supersedes all of them: less worlds. do this through interven- candidates at every level are The Talmud tells us pikuah nefesh. This year was a Yom Kip- tions that provide accurate impacted by content that that saving a single life is G-d has not put pur unlike any other. This was information on candidates targets them based on their equivalent to saving an en- stumbling blocks before not a year of compromised and identity-based groups identity. tire world. A story is told of our spiritual growth; He Day of Atonement, but of ex- to safeguard the democratic Incorporate infor- the founder of Chabad Chas- has allowed an unprece- traordinary, once in a lifetime system. mational interventions in sidism, Rabbi Shneur Zal- dented number of people power and holiness. Whether Expand tools and ser- election campaigns: At the man, who, during the Yom to perform a mitzvah of we remained at home or joined vices for targets of hate: At outset of a campaign, can- Kippur services, suddenly such profound holiness responsible, socially distanced present, Platforms are do- didates should use their exited the synagogue and that even Yom Kippur, services wearing masks, this ing little to nothing for tar- reach to counter disinfor- walked to a cabin in which the Day of Judgment on year, the awesome spirituality gets of hate. mation and hate speech in a young woman had given which even the angels of Yom Kippur was joined by Design to reduce influ- real time on social media. Rabbi Shneur Zalman birth. The Rabbi proceeded quake in awe, must be violat- the unparalleled mitzvah of pi- ence and impact of hate- Additionally, candidates to cut wood, make a fire, and ed: pikuah nefesh. We have all kuah nefesh. It was also a Yom ful content: social media should amplify accurate in- cook soup for the recovering life)”. now performed this mitzvah Kippur of great hope for the companies should redesign formation and educate the woman (all acts prohibited For many of us, the past before which even the most future. We have spent the past their platforms and adjust electorate on the impact of on Yom Kippur). When later six months may have appeared sacred rituals cannot stand. six months in frequent if not their algorithms to reduce hate speech disguised as asked how he could do such as confinement and stagna- We have done it through wear- continuous states of discom- the prevalence and influ- political speech and how things on the holiest day of tion. Jewish life is closely tied ing masks, and by remaining fort, inconvenience, isolation ence of hateful content and it reverberates in different the year, Rabbi Shneur Zal- with community life, and the in our homes for holidays and and uncertainty out of mercy harassing behavior. identity-based groups. man replied; “I am not lax on last half-year has consisted declining to attend events. and compassion for our fellow Recommendations for •To view the entire the laws of Yom Kippur; I am of closed synagogues, lonely Covid-19 has claimed many human beings; the King of the Lawmakers and Candidates study go to adl.org very stringent on the laws of holidays, and life events that lives, but it would have taken Universe will surely respond in Dedicate resources to pikuah nefesh (preserving many could not attend. Cer- exponentially more if not for mercy and compassion to us.

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