The Award Winning » STAY WARM!
the ewish jourNal jA publication of the Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo of WNY BUFFALO, ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD FEBRUARY 2016 | SHEVAT –ADAR I 5776
Look: inside: Don’t Miss: Look: inside: Don’t Miss: Look: inside: Don’t Miss: Look: inside: Don’t Look: inside: Don’t t’s ! ! Purim The Future New h! Passover Springtime in Purim Punims ot is A Women’s Women of Jewish Film se i Yom Hashoah Kadimah Miss: Fun Town Square Kadimah Miss: urim esac shavu just becau e! summer happy P Events of Aging in Nickel happy P Events Israel Pages -25! Work of Distinction Festival , jun Candle Annual Dinner Rob Goldberg 0-15 Food Pantry Annual Dinner Goodbye? Buffalo City Jews Page 11 Page 7 41, 42, 43 May 24 Heart & Soul May 21 Begins May 15 june, june Lighters June 14 Is JFed CEO Pages 1 Open Pix Hello! Page 7 Page 5 Pages 8,14,15 Page 10 Pages 4-5 Page 8 Page 30-31 Page 17 Pages 4-5 Page 13 Pages 34-35 Pages 18-19
The Award Winning a publication of the jewish federation of Greater Buffalo The Award Winning a publication of the jewish federation of Greater Buffalo The Award Winning a publication of the jewish federation of Greater Buffalo The Award Winning a publication of the jewish federation of Greater Buffalo The Award Winning a publication of the jewish federation of Greater Buffalo
the ewish jourNal the ewish jourNal the ewish jourNal the ewish jourNal the ewish jourNal j of WNY j of WNY j of WNY j of WNY j of WNY Buffalo, Israel & the Jewish World March 2015 | Adar-Nisan 5775 Buffalo, Israel & the Jewish World April 2015 | Nisan-Iyar 5775 Buffalo, Israel & the Jewish World May 2015 | Iyar- Sivan 5775 Buffalo, Israel & the Jewish World June 2015 | Sivan- Tammuz 5775 Buffalo, Israel & the Jewish World July 2015 | Tammuz- Av 5775 Yom hashoah 70 Years Since Liberation April 19 - Pages 4-5 Celebrate Our Yom ha’atzmaut Remembering D-Day inheritance Israel’s 67th Birthday 71 Years Later Get your April 26 - Page 6 from sinai on shavuot Pages 8-9 Purim on! March 4-8
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UJF CAMPAIGN KICKS OFF! The Award Winning The Award Winning HAPPY THANKSGIVING! The Award Winning HAPPY HANUKKAH! Look: inside: Don’t Miss: wOw! Look: inside: Don’t Miss: Pages 6-7 , UjF Kick-Off Dinner » » » e UJF Community WNY Join in JRT Dautches are Meet Israel & Tiblisi welcom ! berg Kick-Off Congregations Bar/Bat Mitzvah is september 21. Benderson Rob & Shira through local Rob Gold Dinner in Israel Year Register today! Honorees Pages 6-7 eyes Pages 4-5 Pages 10-11 Pages 33 www.jfedbflo.com Page 5 Pages 8-9 the ewish jourNal the ewish jourNal the ewish jourNal The Award Winning a publication of the jewish federation of Greater Buffalo The Award Winning a publication of the jewish federation of Greater Buffalo jA publication of the Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo of WNY jA publication of the Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo of WNY jA publication of the Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo of WNY BUFFALO, ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD OCTOBER 2015 | TISHRI – HESHVAN 5776 BUFFALO, ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD NOVEMBER 2015 | HESHVAN- KISLEV 5776 BUFFALO, ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD DECEMBER 2015 | KISLEV- TEVET 5776
the ewish jourNal the ewish jourNal j of WNY j of WNY Buffalo, Israel & the Jewish World August 2015 | Av- Elul 5775 Buffalo, Israel & the Jewish World September 2015 | Elul 5775- Tishri 5776
sunny summer Camp Days! shana Pages 6-7 Tova HURRAY FOR PJ! PJ LIBRARY IN BUFFALO U’metukah! (4-5) Best wishes for a WHAT ARE YOU READING THE HANUKKAH EDITION: sweet New Year 5776 GREAT MIRACLES ARE HAPPENING IN BUFFALO! THIS MONTH? (4) 49TH BOOK & ARTS FAIR BEGINS NOVEMBER 15
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Williamsport, PA Williamsport, Williamsport, PA Williamsport, PA Williamsport, PA Williamsport,
Williamsport, PA Williamsport, Keeping Up With Holly and Jordan Levy The FOURQUESTIONS JFED ANNUAL YOUNG LEADERS BUFFALO RISING
PAID PAID PAID PAID PAID Getzville, NY 14068 NY Getzville, Getzville, NY 14068 NY Getzville, 14068 NY Getzville, 14068 NY Getzville, Getzville, NY 14068 NY Getzville, Evie Weinstein Meet a Finnish Rabbi The FOUR QUESTIONS
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The Award Winning » HAPPY NEW YEAR!
the ewish jourNal jA publication of the Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo of WNY BUFFALO, ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD JANUARY 2016 | KISLEV- TEVET 5776
WELCOMING JEWISH JOURNAL OF WNY REFUGEES THROUGH JEWISH FAMILY SERVICE!
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the ewish jourNal j of WNY February 2016 Published by The Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo The Award Winning STAY WARM! 2640 North Forest Road » Getzville, NY 14068 716-204-2241 Editor’s Note the Onewish The CoverjourNal www.jfedbflo.com jA publication of the Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo of WNY BUFFALO, ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD FEBRUARY 2016 | SHEVAT –ADAR I 5776
Look: inside: Don’t Miss: Look: inside: Don’t Miss: Look: inside: Don’t Miss: Look: inside: Don’t Look: inside: Don’t t’s ! ! Purim The Future New h! Passover Springtime in Purim Punims ot is A Women’s Women of Jewish Film se i Yom Hashoah Kadimah Miss: Fun Town Square Kadimah Miss: urim esac shavu just becau e! summer happy P Events of Aging in Nickel happy P Events Israel Pages -25! Work of Distinction Festival , jun Candle Annual Dinner Rob Goldberg 0-15 Food Pantry Annual Dinner Goodbye? Buffalo City Jews Page 11 Page 7 41, 42, 43 May 24 Heart & Soul May 21 Begins May 15 june, june Lighters June 14 Is JFed CEO Pages 1 Open Pix Hello! Page 7 Page 5 Pages 8,14,15 Page 10 Pages 4-5 Page 8 Page 30-31 Page 17 Pages 4-5 Page 13 Pages 34-35 Pages 18-19
The Award Winning a publication of the jewish federation of Greater Buffalo The Award Winning a publication of the jewish federation of Greater Buffalo The Award Winning a publication of the jewish federation of Greater Buffalo The Award Winning a publication of the jewish federation of Greater Buffalo The Award Winning a publication of the jewish federation of Greater Buffalo
the ewish jourNal the ewish jourNal the ewish jourNal the ewish jourNal the ewish jourNal j of WNY j of WNY j of WNY j of WNY j of WNY Buffalo, Israel & the Jewish World March 2015 | Adar-Nisan 5775 Buffalo, Israel & the Jewish World April 2015 | Nisan-Iyar 5775 Buffalo, Israel & the Jewish World May 2015 | Iyar- Sivan 5775 Buffalo, Israel & the Jewish World June 2015 | Sivan- Tammuz 5775 Buffalo, Israel & the Jewish World July 2015 | Tammuz- Av 5775 Yom hashoah 70 Years Since Liberation April 19 - Pages 4-5 Celebrate Our Yom ha’atzmaut Remembering D-Day inheritance Israel’s 67th Birthday 71 Years Later Get your April 26 - Page 6 from sinai on shavuot Pages 8-9 CEO/Executive Director...... Rob Goldberg Purim on! March 4-8 President...... Howard Rosenhoch
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The Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo Greater of Federation Jewish The Buffalo Greater of Federation Jewish The Buffalo Greater of Federation Jewish The Buffalo Greater of Federation Jewish The The Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo Greater of Federation Jewish The Editor, Marketing and Community Relations Director...... Ellen S. Goldstein
UJF CAMPAIGN KICKS OFF! The Award Winning The Award Winning HAPPY THANKSGIVING! The Award Winning HAPPY HANUKKAH! Look: inside: Don’t Miss: wOw! Look: inside: Don’t Miss: Pages 6-7 , UjF Kick-Off Dinner » » » e UJF Community WNY Join in JRT Dautches are Meet Israel & Tiblisi welcom ! berg Kick-Off Congregations Bar/Bat Mitzvah is september 21. Benderson Rob & Shira through local Rob Gold Dinner in Israel Year Register today! Honorees Pages 6-7 eyes Pages 4-5 Pages 10-11 Pages 33 www.jfedbflo.com Page 5 Pages 8-9 the ewish jourNal the ewish jourNal the ewish jourNal The Award Winning a publication of the jewish federation of Greater Buffalo The Award Winning a publication of the jewish federation of Greater Buffalo jA publication of the Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo of WNY jA publication of the Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo of WNY jA publication of the Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo of WNY BUFFALO, ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD OCTOBER 2015 | TISHRI – HESHVAN 5776 BUFFALO, ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD NOVEMBER 2015 | HESHVAN- KISLEV 5776 BUFFALO, ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD DECEMBER 2015 | KISLEV- TEVET 5776 Advisory Board
the ewish jourNal the ewish jourNal j of WNY j of WNY Buffalo, Israel & the Jewish World August 2015 | Av- Elul 5775 Buffalo, Israel & the Jewish World September 2015 | Elul 5775- Tishri 5776
sunny summer Susan Adelman Elizabeth Kahn Kenneth Rogers Camp Days! shana Pages 6-7 Tova HURRAY FOR PJ! PJ LIBRARY IN BUFFALO U’metukah! (4-5) Jonathan Epstein Rabbi Gary Pokras Peter Simon Best wishes for a WHAT ARE YOU READING THE HANUKKAH EDITION: sweet New Year 5776 GREAT MIRACLES ARE HAPPENING IN BUFFALO! THIS MONTH? (4) 49TH BOOK & ARTS FAIR BEGINS NOVEMBER 15
(8) Richard Hirsch Eric Reich Michael Weisman
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Williamsport, PA Williamsport, Keeping Up With Holly and Jordan Levy The FOURQUESTIONS JFED ANNUAL YOUNG LEADERS BUFFALO RISING
PAID PAID PAID PAID PAID Getzville, NY 14068 NY Getzville, Getzville, NY 14068 NY Getzville, 14068 NY Getzville, 14068 NY Getzville, Getzville, NY 14068 NY Getzville, Evie Weinstein Meet a Finnish Rabbi The FOUR QUESTIONS
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The Award Winning » HAPPY NEW YEAR!
the ewish jourNal jA publication of the Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo of WNY BUFFALO, ISRAEL & THE JEWISH WORLD JANUARY 2016 | KISLEV- TEVET 5776
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edition of this new community Newspaper! 36—double Chai!— STD. Presorted 3 MessageBuffalo Greater of Federation fromJewish The the(6 )President:(6) (11) Senior Vice President/Creative Director...... Chastity O'Shei life, good luck and more. During 2015, we featured stories on Howard Rosenhoch [email protected] Vice President/Production...... Jennifer Tudor the Buffalo Blizzard of 2014 and our community’s response, 4 8 Nights of Giving – Making a Difference [email protected] the future of aging and Weinberg Campus, a moving story in Buffalo Lead Designer...... Kimberly Miers about D-Day by Dan Kohane, and pieces by and about Dan 5 Hillel International Honors Rob Goldberg [email protected] Senior Graphic Designers...... Josh Flanigan, Metchnik and Lital Liberty- our Israeli Shlichim. We also looked 6 UB Creates New Dept. of Jewish Thought Andrea Rowley, Jean-Pierre Thimot, Nicholas Vitello at summer camp in Buffalo, the joint Mission to Israel taken by Betsy Abramson to Lead Camp Centerland Traffic Coordinator...... Adam Van Schoonhoven Congregation Shir Shalom, Temple Beth Tzedek and Temple 7 If Everyone Read the Same Book: Associate Publisher/Senior Vice President/Advertising...... Barbara E. Macks Beth Zion, the community’s new Town Square Food Pantry, [email protected] Climbing Jacob’s Ladder Assistant Sales & Marketing Manager...... Marianne Potratz the excitement and activity of Israel and Yom Ha’atzmaut, the 8 The Four Questions with Rob Goldberg & [email protected] Federation’s 2016 Campaign through the eyes of its leader Aaron Blum Senior Account Executive...... Cynthia Oppenheimer, Leslie Shuman Kramer, Yom Hashoah testimony, a glimpse at Robin Kurss 9 Honoring Shay & Remembering Lila Mintz [email protected], the future with the BJE’s Hebrew High Graduating class, and we 10 Nickel City Jews [email protected] got to meet Nickel City Jews. Through the JJWNY, we were able Proofreaders ...... Sharon C. Levite, Amy Goldstein 11 An Update from Weinberg Campus to welcome new Federation CEO Rob Goldberg and learn more by Ken Rogers about the community through his monthly addition, “The Four Members of 12 Essen ‘n Fressen: Chocolate Chip Challah Questions.” We also welcomed PJ Library Director Mandy Weiss by Robin Kurss and Federation’s Coordinator for Talent and Leadership Director Submissions: 13 Remembering Judy Chick Evie Weinstein. Submit editorial stories, photos, and calendar items by the 1st of the The Rabbi’s Column: preceding month of issue to [email protected]. This publication, the Jewish Journal of WNY, is more than 14 Rabbi Alex Lazarus-Klein To Advertise: just a joint venture between The Jewish Federation and Spree 15 The Sanctity of Taharah by Mara Koven- To advertise, call Cynthia Oppenheimer at 716-783-9119 x2240. Publications. It is comprised of contributions from temples Gelman Ad space & materials are due by the 10th of each month prior to and synagogues, agencies and community members. We rely on publication. For a rate card and any additional information, please 16 Buffalo Jewish Coalition for Literacy everyone in our community for stories, poems, ideas and news. email Cynthia Oppenheimer [email protected] Needs You! or Barbara Macks [email protected]. Again this year, thank you to Publisher Larry Levite, Associate 17 Toby Laping Honored by Amherst Senior To Subscribe: Publisher/Senior VP Barbara Macks, Senior Account Executive Citizens Foundation To subscribe, visit www.jfedbflo.com and click on “JJWNY Cynthia Oppenheimer and Lead Designer Kim Miers, and all 18 “Au-Some” Swimmers by Eric Poniatowski subscription.” Free for Western New York area residents and donors of Spree Publications. Without this pro-Buffalo organization, to the UJF Campaign. Non-resident subscription is $36 for 12 issues, 19 5 Things you can do to repair the world payable to The Jewish Journal of WNY. we wouldn’t be able to bring you this juicy publication each in February / Where in Jewish Bflo? month. Thank you also to Rob Goldberg, Federation CEO, whose The Jewish Journal of WNY (JJWNY) reserves the right to cancel any advertisement at 20-21 Agencies & Synagogues any time. The Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo and Buffalo Spree Publishing, Inc. contributions – both in the newspaper and in the community— are not liable for the content or errors appearing in the advertisements beyond the 22-25 Synagogue Happenings cost of the space occupied. The JJWNY does not assume responsibility for the kashrut are enormous. Thank you to readers and advertisers for of any product or service advertised in this paper. Editorials, columns, advertisements, supporting this incredible 26-27 Let’s Have a Party! Special Advertising agency reports and other outside articles do not necessarily represent the views of the newspaper or the Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo, but rather express the project of which I feel lucky Section view of the writer. to be a part. On to the 28 February Calendar All real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, which makes it “illegal to advertise “based on race, color, religion, fourth year—from strength 29-40 Agency Events sex, handicap, familial status, national origin, or an intention to make any such Ellen Goldstein - Editor preference, limitation or discrimination.” This newspaper will not knowingly accept to strength. 41-43 Jews in the News any advertising for real estate that is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal 44 Not The Last Word: Hon. Sean Ryan opportunity basis. 2 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 3 PRESIDENT’S COLUMN
Howard Rosenhoch best ways to tell Federation’s story to that spectacular result. Kudos go potential donors; younger members to immediate past Campaign and President, Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo of our community working as runners Women’s Philanthropy Chairs Steve and collecting completed pledge cards Ellen Weiss on 2015, and to current We undertake leadership for processing; and of course workers Campaign and Women’s Philanthropy development initiatives, such preparing and serving food (what’s a Chairs Leslie Shuman Kramer and Julie as the newly formed Lead Jewish event without food?) to keep our Dressler Weinberg on the strong 2016 with Jewish Values program volunteers well fed and energized for campaign they are leading. None of this headed by Evie Weinstein to the task at hand. And of course, we have is possible without the stalwart work of insure a continuing stream of folks making telephone calls connecting our Campaign Director Randi Morkisz, dedicated volunteer leaders at with as many of our supporters as we are whose dedication to Federation and our every life stage. We allocate able on this special day. Jewish Community is unmatched. dollars overseas to assist at risk When you look around on Super I am equally delighted to report that Jews around the world and in Sunday you are bound to see among the Federation was recently awarded a top 4 Israel. And of course there is volunteers a number of local political star out of 4 rating by Charity Navigator, the Jewish Journal of WNY, which leaders and news media personalities indicating top notch good governance you are reading right now, which who traditionally join with and and efficiency, a recognition that our As we approach the end of January, my month after month provides the support the Jewish Federation in this CEO Rob Goldberg and his entire thoughts turn to Super Sunday. No, not the information you want and need important fund raising effort. This is staff, and I and our dedicated Board of Sunday that features pro football’s championship to know about what’s happening emblematic of the fact that the reach Governors, take pride in. What does this game, the Super Bowl, especially with the Buffalo in Jewish Buffalo and around the and breadth of services provided by mean for you, our generous supporters? Bills out of the playoffs again this year. Instead, Jewish world. Federation affiliated agencies, including It means that your investment in the I’m thinking about Jewish Federation’s Super Super Sunday is the day we Jewish Family Services and the Jewish Buffalo Jewish community through your Sunday on the last day of the month, Sunday focus as a community on raising Community Center, provide services to gifts to Federation will realize a top January 31st. the resources to fuel these and all members of our community without notch return on investment. Super Sunday is a day of raising resources and other important programs and regard to religious affiliation. When you get the call on Sunday much more. On the one hand, it’s the granddaddy initiatives. Volunteers come Super Sunday is not only a time to ask January 31st, know that on the other of Phone-a-thons for the Jewish Community. On together at the JCC Benderson for money, it’s also a time to look out for end of the phone is a smiling volunteer the other, it is also a day of community building, Building for one of two sessions those in our community who are in need. eager to speak with you about the work of coming together with the common purpose between 9 in the morning and This year that banner is being flown by of Federation, its affiliated agencies of strengthening the Buffalo Jewish Community. 2 in the afternoon to reach out the millennials and young professionals and our local synagogues. This is your It is no secret that the impact of Federation to members of the community of Nickel City Jews, who are combining opportunity to let us know what we’re is directly related to the amount of money we of all stripes to have Jewish Super Sunday with their annual Gift of doing right, and how we can do better. raise. There’s support for Nickel City Jews, PJ conversations about the work Life Bone Marrow Drive, giving Super I’ll take this opportunity to join with all Library, Buffalo Jewish Coalition for Literacy, and of Federation and its agencies Sunday volunteers and JCC patrons alike of our volunteers and thank each and other programs run by Federation. There are so that everyone has the an opportunity to give a cheek swab to every one of you for caring about our allocations to our agencies, like Jewish Family opportunity to contribute to and qualify to make one of the greatest gifts Jewish community, and for your gift, Services, Bureau of Jewish Education, Yad B’Yad, support these collective efforts. an individual can make, organ or tissue however large or small, that fuels the Hillel of Buffalo, Chabad, Kadimah Academy Led by Chairs Jessica and donation to save a life. work of Federation. and Ohr Temimim School, to name just a few. Frank Altman and Co-Chair Dina I am delighted to report that There are grants made through Federation’s Benderson, on Super Sunday the Federation’s 2015 campaign met our Jewish Program Venture Fund to synagogues JCC Benderson building becomes goal of over $2.44 million, and the and other agencies collaborating together on a veritable bee hive of activity. 2016 campaign is already well along new and innovative community programming. We have trainers teaching the in matching, and perhaps exceeding,
Thank you If you have not yet made a 2016 gift, for your go to www.jfedbuffalo.com and UJF 2016 Gift! make your gift today!
2 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 3 COMMUNITY 8 Nights of Giving Federation’s Women’s Philanthropy Social Action Chairs, Jessica Altman and Dana Stoffman chaired a successful drive during Chanukah – The “Eight Nights of Giving” Project. All students at our Sunday Schools, Day Schools and the Bureau’s High School program were asked to donate items for refugee and resettled families through Jewish Family Service. Car loads of items were delivered to JFS offices in December. In addition, our Nickel City Jews and PJ Library families donated hundreds of dollars in gift cards to help Holocaust survivors, the elderly and refugee families through JFS as well. Community members were also asked to bring household items and children’s books on Super Sunday to help refugee families and the children working with Buffalo Jewish Coalition for Literacy at School 80. Sophie and Sam Altman are seen gathering Items were received from students from Chai School –JDC, Temple Beth Tzedek, some of the toys, books and other donated items for 8 Nights of Giving, along with JFS Temple Beth Zion, Congregation Shir Shalom, the High School of Jewish Studies, Ohr staff, who helped to distribute the goods. Temimim School, Kadimah Academy and various community members.
Women’s Philanthropy Presents an event at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery Monet & the Impressionist Revolution 1860-1910 Tuesday, March 8 10:15- Tour of Show, 11:45 Lunch COST: Tour & Lunch $38/ $27 for AKAG Members. Kosher meals available upon request Spaces limited. Sign up early. RSVP to 204-2250 or Call Randi Morkisz for more info 204-2245
4 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 5 COMMUNITY BONNIE CLEMENT 716.553.8384 Hillel International [email protected] Honors Rob Goldberg Jewish Federation CEO/ Executive Director Rob Goldberg was honored in December at Hillel Inter- national’s Global Assem- bly in Orlando, Florida. Broker for HUNT Real Before Rob came to Fed- Estate ERA,* which includes eration in Buffalo, he 1,100 sales associates and spent more than 15 years 38 offices nationwide from in multiple leadership Buffalo to Albany and the positions at Hillel Inter- State of Arizona national’s Schusterman # Center, most recently as Interim Chief Campus Officer and Vice President HUNT Real Estate ERA for Leadership and Gover- congratulates Bonnie nance at the Schusterman International Center. on her remarkable,1 Rob was also Executive Director of St. Louis Hil- 2013, 2014, lel at Washington Univer- 2015!!! sity for 5 years, and Chair Beth Joseph, Bari Spokane, Bonnie Clement, Sheryl Martin of the Board of Hillel at * All of HUNT Real Estate ERA Gross Closed Commission and #1 total Units Buffalo / Niagara Region 2013. Brown University. Rob Goldberg at the Hillel International meeting in Orlando. At the December event, Brian Cohen, Hillel Director Quite an achievement,” Jennifer Chestnut said the at Columbia-Barnard Hillel, following about Rob: and Jamie Schiffman and “I was 27 years old and was in my second year of Jennifer Chestnut of the being a Hillel director of Hillel at Kent State, at the Schusterman International time a small Hillel with $130K budget. Rob was the ED Center, spoke about Rob at Wash U Hillel. I was struck with how professional and his colleague, Scott he was, how serious he was about the work. I was just Brown, who were both being serving matzah balls and bagels; Rob had a larger vision. honored for their long Hillel But 14 years later, what I remember most was how careers. welcoming, friendly and respectful Rob was of me as a “It is our pleasure to leader – when I was many (many) years his junior… Rob recognize the careers of two has a smile that lights up a room, is constantly positive extraordinary gentlemen. even when there is reason not to be and while he is the Scott and Rob have both master of politically maneuvering communities – get played significant roles him alone- and he’ll tell it to you straight. in all of our careers and I often channel Rob when I’m meeting with we’re here tonight to say communities in a sort of “WWRD” What would Rob Do thank you, as Scott and moment. I’m excited I get to continue to work with Rob Rob make amazing career as we rebuild Hillel in Buffalo. Having spent time there transitions. A couple twice this fall, Federation is so thankful to have him as hundred colleagues have their new CEO and are excited for all that he’ll build in been impacted by you in his home community. significant ways, and a Tonight, we’re honored to give him a tzedakah box – couple hundred colleagues for his work to repair the world - with this inscription: each have impacted a Presented to Rob Goldberg - In appreciation of minimum of a few hundred your invaluable contributions to the Jewish campus students. Do the math and community and the Hillel family. On behalf of Hillel we conservatively - you have are so pleased and grateful to give these gifts as tokens indirectly impacted tens of our appreciation. of thousands of students throughout your careers. 4 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 5 COMMUNITY University at Buffalo announces new Department of Jewish Thought
Betsy Abramson Betsy Abramson To Lead Camp Centerland
Faculty members in the Department of Jewish Thought are, from left, Marla B. Segol, Alexander Green, Richard A. Cohen, Noam Pines, Sergey Dolgopolski JCC Director Rick Zakalik has and Lilia Dolgopolskaia. announced that Betsy Abramson has accepted the position of Director By Bert Gambini Established in 2008, the IJTH has since language. Cohen says the focus will be of Camp Centerland. Betsy was 2012 offered a bachelor of arts degree on humanism and a fluency in its related recommended unanimously by the The University at Buffalo will launch in Jewish studies, as well as a minor in disciplines. search committee. More than a a new department at the end of the Jewish studies, but the new department “It’s what’s needed today,” he said. “This dozen people, both local and from current semester dedicated to the will have an identity that distinguishes it is not vocational training. This is teaching out-of-area, applied for the position. academic study of the Jewish intellectual from similar programs and departments at from among the basic strands of humanity Betsy began her career at the Buffalo tradition in the development of Western other colleges and universities. in the Western world.” JCC serving as Assistant Director of civilization. The highly interdisciplinary “We are deliberately being called the The interdisciplinary department will Youth Services, Assistant Director of department will foster inquiry, Department of Jewish Thought because deeply engage students in the grand Camp Lakeland, and Assistant Unit Head knowledge and understanding through that is our particular orientation of Jewish spiritual tradition of the West and the self- at Camp Centerland. She continued innovative scholarship and teaching studies,” said Richard Cohen, professor reflective dimension of civilization, both her career as the Youth Director for that explores the rich philosophical and of philosophy and director of the IJTH. in terms of philosophy and religion, said the JCC of Mid-Westchester and more spiritual contributions of Jewish culture “There are many departments of Jewish Cohen recently has been the Education from antiquity to the present. studies engaged primarily in history and Since 2008, the IJTH has hired five Coordinator for a childcare center UB’s Department of Jewish Thought in philology, but at UB as a department full-time faculty members with expertise in WNY. With a Master’s in Student the College of Arts of Sciences will be within the humanities, we’re highlighting ranging from the Jewish philosophical Personnel Administration, Bachelor’s oriented toward theory and philosophy ethics, which relates us to philosophy and tradition, the Talmud, Jewish mysticism in Child Development/Family Studies/ with an emphasis on ethics, the central to some of the greatest philosophers of and the Kabbalah, rationalist Jewish Early Childhood Education, she brings and unifying feature throughout the long the last 150 years, such thinkers as Henri thought and comparative study of Jewish a wealth of knowledge and talent to and diverse history of Judaism. The new Bergson, Martin Buber, Franz Rosenzweig literature. the JCC. department builds on the foundation of and Emanuel Levinas.” “This is a research-oriented faculty with Betsy is thrilled to be coming back the university’s Institute of Jewish Thought “Creating this department is a testament extensive teaching experience,” Cohen to her JCC family and looks forward to and Heritage (IJTH). to the continuing support of UB for the said. “All five of us have published books spending the summer with all of her “UB is recognized nationally for our humanities and a desire for the campus in the last two years and all five of us are favorite people and a summer filled excellent and innovative research to be a leader across the spectrum of currently working on books.” with friends, fun and new adventures. and education in the humanities,” said humanities scholarship,” said E. Bruce Cohen expressed gratitude to the UB Provost Charles F. Zukoski. “The Pitman, dean of UB’s College of Arts and university, the College of Arts and Department of Jewish Thought will Sciences. Sciences, and members of the Western New contribute to this tradition by building While ethics, the biblically inspired York Jewish community — two of whom on the unique approach that our faculty teachings of morality and the prophetic have provided support for two endowed have been pursuing through the Institute call to justice will form the department’s professorships — for helping to make the of Jewish Thought and Heritage, making core, guiding its direction and providing new department a reality. these programs more accessible and visible definition, its contours still will consist “It’s thrilling to have reached this to our students.” of components in history, semiotics and moment,” said Cohen. Camp Centerland 6 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 7
August CC COMMUNITY If Everyone Read the Same Book - March 30 Climbing Jacob’s Ladder
Alan Morinis, founder and dean of The Mussar Institute, will be the Scholar-in-Residence from March 28-30 in Buffalo culminating in the community- wide “If Everyone Read The Same Book” program Wednesday, March 30 at Temple Beth Tzedek. The book to be read, Climbing Jacob’s Ladder, by Alan, details his early life in show business, and how, after reaching a very low point in his life, he began to study the ancient Jewish practice of Mussar, which helped him to elevate his life and enable others to learn and share the Jewish Alan Morinis and practice and wisdom of Mussar. his book, Climbing Jacob’s Ladder “A highlight of Alan’s 3 day visit is a program for the entire Jewish Community called, “What if Everybody Read the Same Book”, said Evie Weinstein, Federation’s Coordinator for Talent and transformative practices designed to Leadership Development. “We penetrate the deepest roots of the inner life. are giving away to the first 100 Eventually reaching the limits of what people Alan’s first book, Climbing he could learn on his own, and yet still Jacob’s Ladder,”she added. Anyone wanting to go farther, he realized he would interested in receiving their free have to seek out a Mussar teacher. That goal book for the first 100 people should was not easily achieved, since almost the call Mindy Ponivas at the Bureau of entire world of the Mussar tradition had been Jewish Education at 204-5380. eliminated in the Holocaust. In time, he did Jewish by birth, though from a find an accomplished master who stood in an secular family, Alan Morinis took unbroken line of transmission of the Mussar a deep journey into Hinduism and tradition, and who lived at the center of a Buddhism as a young man. He community of Orthodox Jews on Long Island. received a doctorate from Oxford This book tells the story of Morinis’s journey University for his study of Hindu to meet his teacher and what he learned from pilgrimage, learned yoga in India him, and reveals the central teachings and with B.K.S. Iyengar, and attended his practices that are the spiritual treasury and first Buddhist meditation course in legacy of Mussar. the Himalayas in 1974. But in 1997, Mussar transformed Alan Morinis’s life. when his film career went off track, He has written this book because the wisdom and he reached for some spiritual and practices that helped him so much oxygen, this time he felt inspired have not penetrated the world beyond the to explore his Jewish heritage. In confines of Orthodox Judaism and may not his reading he happened upon a be fully appreciated even there at this time. tradition of spiritual practice called His hope is that Jews and non-Jews alike will Mussar that dates from the 10th find in Mussar a time-tested path of spiritual century and that became a socio- practice that will help them discover the spiritual movement in 19th century hidden radiance within. Europe. Gradually he realized he had For more information regarding Alan’s stumbled on an insightful discipline visit, please contact Evie Weinstein at for self-development, complete [email protected]. with meditative, contemplative, chanting, and other well-developed 6 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 7 COMMUNITY The FOUR QUESTIONS By Rob Goldberg
We are pleased this month to highlight one of our community’s teens in our Four Questions feature. Aaron Blum is the older brother of Seth Blum and the son of Jeff and Leah Blum. He is completing his final year of High School at Williamsville East and is an active staff member and volunteer in the community having served or currently serving in a variety of roles with Temple Beth Tzedek, the JCC and The BJE.
1. What is your favorite holiday and why?
Sukkot for sure. Since I was little, my family has always put up a Sukkah and my brother and I have been in charge of decorating. It has become a The Blum Family neighborhood tradition that all the kids would come over to help decorate, too. I look forward every year to share our Sukkah with family and friends.
2. What has been the most meaningful Jewish experience of your life? Although my Bar Mitzvah was a major accomplishment in my life, my trip to Washington with the Jewish Civics Initiative (JCI) class through Hebrew High was probably the most meaningful experience. In particular, I found lobbying Congress quite interesting, and I loved volunteering in a soup kitchen when we were in DC.
3. What makes you passionate about working in the Jewish Communithy?
Helping kids learn about our faith and history. During the year, I am a teacher at Gesher School at Temple Beth Tzedek. My job there is to work Aaron Blum with all age groups as the Computer Lab teacher. For the past four summers, I have been a counselor at Camp Centerland working with 3 and 4 years olds.
4. Why do you like to help?
It is very simple – I like to help in our community because it is where I find most of my success more than any other place. I feel needed and appreciated.
Above: Aaron at Super Sunday last year at Kadimah Academy
8 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 9 COMMUNITY
Rabbi-in-residence at Camps Lakeland and Honoring Rabbi Shay and the late Lila Mintz Centerland. He served on countless boards and committees for the Jewish Federation By Scott Herman of Buffalo, as well. In 1986 Shay became the director of Hillel Rabbi Shay and Lila Mintz have at the State University of NY at Buffalo. It been beloved and revered teachers and was supposed to be temporary, but he got leaders in the Western New York Jewish hooked. He served in that position for 14 community for over 4 decades. So when years and continued doing High Holiday Lila passed away in August, and after services for many years following. The high Shay returned from Israel where she energy he brought to the services attracted was buried, he wanted to celebrate her students and community members from life beyond just memorializing her. every stream of Judaism. He crafted his Working closely with Rabbi Perry Netter services to be understandable, inclusive of Temple Beth Tzedek and Federation and enjoyable to all. staff and a number of community Rabbi Mintz officiated at my wedding members, Shay’s hope was realized in and hundreds of other weddings, bar a beautiful “celebration” on December mitzvahs, brit milah, and funerals. He 3rd. Close to 150 individuals including helped us celebrate the joyous events with former students of Shay’s living outside Lila & Rabbi Shay Mintz (photo courtesy of Scott Hermon) enthusiasm and high energy and sheltered of the community and family members us through sad times. of Lila’s, gathered in the TBT sanctuary at the Hillel program of the University at in 1970 as the educational director of Thank you Shay and Lila for all you have to share stories and memories of Lila Buffalo. Temple Shaarey Zedek. While he was there, done for the Buffalo Jewish community. We but also to honor and bid farewell Lila was a loving mother of 3 children, ten he went by “Mr. Mintz” because he did will remember Lila fondly and send warm to the Rabbi, who plans to return to grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. not want to confuse people as to who was thoughts to Shay as he returns home to Israel permanently. The event was a Though tragedy struck Lila’s first husband the congregational Rabbi. Shay was also Israel. Shay, you will forever be my favorite very moving, emotional program. We and oldest son, she maintained a positive involved in the Hebrew schools at Beth El rabbi. told stories, honored Shay and Lila’s outlook on life. This positive outlook is a and Temple Sinai and was also involved as a accomplishments, prayed together, core of who she was. Lila lost her eyesight laughed and cried. to Retinitis Pigmentosa, an inherited Shay and Lila Mintz worked to create genetic disease. She knew it was coming a life together, which will become an and faced it with grace and dignity. Shay enduring legacy and will benefit our and Lila continued to travel together. Shay community for generations to come. was her eyes — and when her memory They have been extraordinary began to fade, Shay became her guide, to benefactors of the Foundation for Jewish protect her and care for her. And when Philanthropies – creating and building he could not do it anymore, he made sure permanent endowment funds for a variety that she was comfortable and cared for of special purposes and projects. They at Weinberg Campus. Shay showed us by were the founders of the People of the example how to treat a loved one with Book Fund, which was established in 1984. kindness, with caring, and with dignity. Today, it is by far the Foundation’s largest Shay is the son of Polish parents who endowment dedicated to the support of immigrated to Israel in the 1920’s. He was the Jewish Community Book Fair at the born in pre-state Israel, grew up there and JCC, as a result of the Mintz’s sustained attended two yeshivot and served in the contributions and those of other Book Fair army as a chaplain. He participated in the Patrons. Sinai Campaign and was discharged as a In 1986, Lila and Shay were one of the four lieutenant. His father, Benjamin Mintz, was original founding couples who created the a member of the first Knesset of Israel after Foundation’s Israel Scholarship Program Israel won independence in 1948. He later which provides financial assistance to high went on to be vice speaker of the Knesset school and college students to travel to and a cabinet minister. A few years ago, Israel on study missions and organized Shay published a book about his father, pilgrimage programs. The Katz and which is currently only available in Hebrew, Mintz Family Israel Scholarship Fund is a but should be released in English soon. permanent endowment that makes annual Rabbi Mintz came to the United States in grants to worthy students. The Foundation 1965 first to South Bend, Indiana, where he also administers the Rabbi Shay Mintz worked as the principal of United Hebrew Hillel Intern Fund which was created with School and also started the Jewish Studies gifts from Lila and Shay. These funds are program at Notre Dame University. Rabbi available to support staff intern positions Isaac Klein brought Rabbi Mintz to Buffalo 8 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 9 COMMUNITY Meet the Nickel City Jews “STREET” TEAM! Nickel City Jews held its first Leadership “Street” Team meeting of 2016 on Tuesday, January 12th, at Imagine Staffing Headquarters in Allentown. The Nickel City Jews Leadership Team includes Co-Chairs David Lefkowitz and Sheri Rodman along with our amazing Street Team members, and a team of Jewish professionals including Miriam Abramovich, Lital Liberty, Melissa Schreiber, Mandy Weiss, and Jill Komm. This meeting marks the first for Nickel City Jews’ incoming Street Team, who will be serving for the duration of 2016. Our Street Team members have been handpicked in recognition of their leadership potential, highlighted by their passion for Western New York’s Jewish Community, their ability and desire to engage community members, and their diversity in interest, career path, and lifestyle. The passion and excitement at this meeting was truly unprecedented! Our Street Team Members include: Nikki Joseph, Yan Shmatnik, Keren Green, Marjorie Mitchell, Jake Katz, Danielle Shatkin, Eric Balsom, Sarah Kaplan, Max Cohen, Florina Altshiler, Gabby Balderman and immediate past Chair, Michael Komm. Nickel City Jews has a really exciting list of events planned for 2016. If you have any questions or are looking to connect with Nickel City Jews please reach out to Miriam Abramovich ([email protected]), or Co-Chairs David Lefkowitz and Sheri Rodman. ...seen at NCJ Hanukkah Party
10 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 11 COMMUNITY An Update From Weinberg Campus Change the Way You See
By Kenneth Rogers, Board Chair
It was April of 1988 and the Rosa Coplon Jewish Home and Infirmary announced that it had made a commitment to expand its mission beyond being a provider of health care to becoming a source of geriatric services and programs for the entire population of Jewish elderly in Western New York. The board stated its intention to move to an Urban Development Corporation-controlled 15.6-acre site next to the Jewish Center on North Forest Road. Little did we know then how much that the new Menorah Campus (later re-named Kenneth Rogers Weinberg Campus) was going to change the nature of services to older adults in subsidy or community-raised funds the our community. Skip ahead 28 years Campus continued to provide kosher and we realize both how much of that meals to those who required them and vision we have accomplished – against Jewish programming to our many Jewish great odds - and that once again we residents. Your Complete have to take a hard look at our role In our current configuration and and the possibilities for improving the with our current cash flow we can no Family Eye Care Center lives of our most at-risk Jewish older longer afford to provide services that adults. What worked then, and for our community has come to expect. over 20 years, is not working now in a We know that the one source of the • New Patients Always Welcome very different environment. assets necessary to continue the promise Central to the move from the old Rosa is in our buildings and land. Thus our • Routine Eye Exams for All Ages Coplon Home on Symphony Circle to the announcement to pursue a partnership Getzville location was the concept that with an investment banker to seek out a • Laser Vision Correction the Buffalo-Niagara Jewish community purchaser or purchasers of many if not would be there to provide the necessary all of Weinberg Campus’s buildings and • Cataract & Glaucoma Evaluations capital investment to make the dream services. As of this writing we, along with come true. Our community’s leadership our partners at the Foundation for Jewish • Large Selection of Designer came through with the necessary funds Philanthropies, are awaiting proposals Frames & Sunglasses to purchase land and meet the dollar from the investment bankers and expect match requirements for Federal and to make a decision on the best firm to • Contact Lens Exams & Fittings Sara Sirkin, State investments. Since then the Jewish help us move forward by early-to-mid M.D. community has decreased dramatically in February. • We Accept Most Major Credit Cards size and our collective resources can no It is my intention to keep the longer absorb the ongoing losses and the community up-to-date on our progress risks posed by the current environment through the Jewish Journal and other in long term health care. There is really means. While the board manages the sale no place to turn to within the Jewish process it is continuing to ensure that the community for the capital necessary best possible services are being provided to move us to the next generation of to our residents. We are also embarking services. on a planning process, similar to that Unlike almost every other Jewish which we carried out in 1986-88, with community-sponsored long-term care the intention of entering into a new age facility, Weinberg Campus has never of appropriate services to older Jewish asked for operating support from the adults. We will do that planning in concert Sara Sirkin, M.D. Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo, with the Jewish Federation and other 2441 Sheridan Drive nor has it pursued annual fundraising. agencies such as Jewish Family Services Fortunately, during much of the last and Jewish Federation Housing. Armed (716) 836-8700 two decades, such subventions were not with good information and enthusiasm needed since the campus was generating for the future we are moving forward. surpluses and positive cash flow. Without Stay tuned. www.atwaleye.com 10 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 11 COMMUNITY ESSEN ‘N FRESSEN Chocolate Chocolate Chip Challah
By Robin Kurss Challah February is the month of Love and of Chocolate... Some people—including French 3/4 c warm water (Bayonne) chocolate makers—believe that 2 tsp yeast Jews brought chocolate making to France. 6 T sugar Chocolate was a Sephardic Jewish specialty 2 eggs, 1 for challah dough, 1 for egg wash maybe because of its availability from 1/4 c oil co-religionists in Curacao. And while we’re 3 c flour on the subject of chocolate, why not dig into 5 Tbsp cocoa On the Chocolate Trail this month, a new 1/2 c pareve chocolate chips (I use Wegman’s brand) book by Rabbi Deborah R. Prinz, subtitled Topping “A Delicious Adventure Connecting Jews, 1. Mix water, yeast and 1Tbsp sugar in bowl. Let sit 10 minutes until yeast is bubbly and frothy. Religions, History, Travel, Rituals and Recipes 2. Mix rest of sugar, flour and cocoa powder in a bowl. 1 stick margarine to the Magic of Cacao?” It’s a wonderful 3. Add 1 egg and oil to yeast mix. Combine with sugar, flour mix until combined. Turn onto 1c flour way to spend a winter day, reading about lightly floured board and knead till smooth. Add chips to kneaded dough to combine. 3/4 c sugar chocolate while noshing on this delicious 4. Place dough in an oiled bowl, cover loosely with plastic wrap, place in warm spot and let 1Tbsp water chocolate challah. Enjoy! rise for 1 hour. I have learned all that I know about 5. Turn dough out onto lightly floured board and separate into 3 sections. Roll each into long Mix till crumbly challah baking from Leah Greenberg and “rope” and braid them. Place challah onto a greased baking sheet, cover loosely with plastic and press lightly onto Sonia Young. wrap and let rise in a warm place for 1/2 hour. egg washed challah. Sonia has a fabulous recipe for a crumble 6. Beat remaining egg with 1TSP of water and lightly brush challah with this egg wash. Bake according to topping for challah, which follows the challah 7. Bake in a preheated 350 degree oven for 30 minutes. directions. recipe. It is delicious on this one.
12 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 13 COMMUNITY Judy Chick Remembered 2015-2016 Officers of The Forum Club
The Chick family and friends attended a beautiful ceremony to dedicate the Amherst bike path/bridge in memory 88th Annual Installation of Officers Banquet of the Forum Club, a Jewish men’s of Judy Chick, who worked tirelessly social club which has been in existence for 96 years, was held at The Protocol this towards its creation as part of a plan to past fall. The officers include (Left to Right:) Harold Brody, Trustee; David Norman, control flooding from the Ellicot Creek. Second Vice President; David Essrow, Sergeant-at-Arms; Leonard Saran, Recording Her contribution to our community was Secretary; Dr. Robert Chick, President; Robert Joseph, Treasurer; Joseph Zackheim. extraordinary - and her memory is truly Financial Secretary; Harvey Podolsky, First Vice President; Irving Sultz, Trustee. a blessing. - Rabbi Gary Pokras Photo credit: Grace and Milton Ehrenberg.
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attacked us in the wilderness when we first Rabbi Alex Lazarus-Klein left Egypt, our enemies would not always I love leap years. And this year, between the Jewish and general calendars, we have be honorable, and they would sometimes two of them. We have February 29th and we have the month of Adar Aleph. Unlike the attack us in places we were most at risk. general calendar which has a six hour discrepancy every year, and thus needs one day I think that is what makes us empathetic added every four years (February 29), the Jewish calendar is a full eleven days short, as a people. We, who were slaves in Egypt, and thus needs a full thirty days added every two or three years in order to stay in know what it means to be in bondage and alignment with the sun (Adar II). For Jews, this means that this year we have a lot of therefore we have duty to protect others. It extra time to enjoy the happiest month of the year, the month of Adar. It also means is for this reason that I am most proud to we have a lot of extra time to think about Purim. have served as the president of the Network of Religious Communities the past two Purim is the holiday where the ingenuity King Achashverosh (who may or may not be years. Part of the mission of the NRC is to of Queen Esther and her uncle Mordecai Xerxes), may be portrayed as stupid, but he Rabbi Alex Lazarus-Klein look out for and protect the rights of our helped prevail against the evil designs of was not a bad guy. Mostly he is interested in fellow co-religionists. Given our history of Haman, who sought to destroy us. It is a partying and making the most of his time as under. Haman, and his kind, could pop up persecution, I hope I have done my small reminder of the dangers of extremism and King. His bad fortune is to lend his trust to in unexpected places and could do us great part in preventing it from happening to how hatred can spread and destroy even Haman, who manipulates the system to take harm. Like the Amalakites before him, who others. the most peaceful of societies. The Persian power from the King and then scapegoats Empire of the fifth century BCE was very the Jews. As this is the first time we had good to the Jews. After the difficulties been treated this way in the diaspora, the Correction: An Arresting Development our people faced under the Assyrians and consequences could have been dire. But, To borrow from former Buffalo resident Mark Twain, “Reports Babylonians, difficulties that led to the fortunately for us, Esther and Mordecai were of my RETIREMENT have been greatly exaggerated.” That is destruction of our Temple and banishment able to turn the tables on Haman, and save what Sheriff Detective Alan Rozansky says after reading the from Israel, it must have been quite a relief our people from certain destruction. JJWNY story about him in the January 2016 issue. Detective to live under the Persians. For it was under For the Jewish people, Purim was a Rozansky has not, in fact, retired and will continue doing the the Persians that we were allowed to return wakeup call. No longer in our homeland excellent work he does as Chief of Narcotics at the Erie County to Jerusalem. we were now vulnerable to the whims of Sheriff’s Office. Apologies for the misunderstanding from The In the Book of Esther, the King of Persia, the political climate that we were living Jewish Journal of WNY.
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14 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 15 COMMUNITY
coming of the Messiah. our loved ones.” The Sanctity of Taharah “It is a strong bonding Rabbi Laizer Labkovski of Jewish Discovery Center process. At first when I reminds us there are two aspects of Jewish burial – being By Mara Koven-Gelman leave I am overwhelmed buried in a Jewish cemetery and the tradition of preparing - it is a very intense and the body for burial (Taharah.) Jews for centuries and throughout the world have participated in what many call emotional experience, but Buffalo is an aging community and while there is much the highest mitzvah (obligation) of Taharah (preparing the dead for burial). It is the most spiritual, I have interest in topics of aging and death, there is a need to considered so sacred because the recipient can never repay the selfless act. ever experienced.” bring more awareness about Jewish funeral practices and Jay Mesnekoff, of after life, said Rabbi Alex Lazarus-Klein. He noted that the Taharah is the term for ritual Mesnekoff Funeral Home Introduction to Judaism class organized by the Bureau of purification, but is also conventionally offers Taharah to all Jews, but Jewish Education invites the Jewish funeral directors to used to encompass all five of the only 10 per cent of those he talk about Taharah to the students. practices from washing to laying out serves want it performed for Those interviewed for this article, strongly felt that the dead. It is performed by Jewish their loved one. He attributes Taharah should be explained through out the community men for males and women for females that to lack of awareness and taught in Jewish schools. The time to learn about called the Chevra Kadisha (sacred in the Jewish community. these important compassionate rituals is not during group/community.) “Even if a family declines, a loved one’s death, said several volunteers, funeral While there are volumes of texts we still properly bathe and directors and clergy. and manuals on the respectful but dress the person. While it For those who may be interested but hesitant to join a methodical process, it is rarely is not traditional Taharah, Chevra Kadisha, one leader suggested, people can come discussed publicly, perhaps given it ensures the person was and sit on the side and be supportive by reading Song of our secular society’s aversion to buried. The typical process of Taharah can treated with dignity.” Songs. They can witness and learn the process firsthand. death. Members of Buffalo’s three happen at anytime as Jewish people usually bury Leon Komm of Amherst A volunteer offered this: “It gives me great satisfaction Chevrot Kadisha (plural) prefer to the dead as soon as possible. Memorial Chapel says to know families are aware that their loved ones are being remain anonymous, (as requested, A volunteer explains the importance of approximately 50 per cent cared for in a careful and loving way. “ those quoted in this article remain Taharah and immediate burial; “The Torah of Jews he buries have nameless.) There is a common theme teaches us that if the High Priest comes across Taharah performed. “This TO LEARN MORE: when volunteers of the Chevra Kadisha a body and there is no one else to bury it, he is community taking care Dr. Lisa Benson answer the questions of what motivates must do it himself even though this will make of each other. – We don’t 866-6799 or email [email protected] them to perform this ancient ritual. him ritually impure. It is an honor to be able to leave it to others, we count (Preferably) “Death is common to us all. This perform this mitzvah.” on each other to take care of Leon Komm is an act conducted in a sacred space, One volunteer described the process from Amherst Memorial Chapel, 716 636-4174 where the Chevra are the last to see the moment of notification of the death. “A Jay Mesnekoff the body. This is an honor and a duty text is sent out to all members – sometimes Mesnekoff Funeral Home, 716 639-8890 and we do it quietly and respectfully,” we are given a short amount of time. We meet said one Chevra Kadisha member. at the funeral home and assigned tasks. We READING: Judaism places great emphasis say a prayer before the Taharah. The minhag The Jewish Way in Death and Dying, Maurice Lamm on caring for the body that housed a (tradition) dictates there is to have three buckets Taharah Manuel – Park Slope Jewish Center person’s soul. Especially at the time of (two gallons each) of fresh, clean water. We pour www.jewish-funerals.org/sites/default/files/spiritweb/ death one is to be treated with respect clean water continuously over each part of the PSJC%20Taharah%20Manual%20v2.pdf and dignity. Typically a group of four body, carefully not letting it get in eyes, nose or Dr. Simcha Raphael to six Jews wash and prepare the body mouth. Catheters are removed, jewelry removed, www.daatinstitute.net/publications-av-resources/ including placing him or her in clean nails are trimmed and nail polish removed.” publications/ white cotton garments, shroud and During this process another member sits on sometimes a tallit for men. The five the side, reading from the Song of Songs, from steps of Tahara include: Ketuvim (Writings) which speaks of beauty and Sh’mirah: Vigil-keeping from the love and praises G-d for protecting the Jewish time of death until burial; people. Rehitzah: Washing the body to A pure white hand-sewn garment (shirt and remove dirt and foreign matter; pants) are put on the body, and knots are tied Small Law Firm Taharah: Ritual purification of the that create the word “Shaddai” in Hebrew – a 1904 Liberty Building body; name for G-d. A bonnet and face covering are Buffalo, NY 14202 Halbashah: Dressing the body in put on and then body is wrapped in a sheet and takhrikhim / shrouds placed in the coffin. Clay shards, dirt from Israel Hashkavah (dakyd): Placing the are additionally placed in the coffin. dead in the coffin (the actual “laying “The Chevra Kadisha meet again and say a out”). prayer asking for forgiveness from any rudeness The time between death and burial or unnecessary words we spoke as a group,” a is when it is believed the soul hovers member explains. One Chevra puts their hands over the body. A person (shomer) on the closed coffin as a way to silently close should always be with the body until the spiritual process and pray for peace with the 14 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 15 COMMUNITY Buffalo Jewish Coalition for Literacy Needs You! By Amy Heumann, BJCL Co-Chair Reading at School 80 The last quarter of 2015 was a season of giving for the volunteers of Buffalo Jewish Coalition for Literacy at PS 80-Highgate Heights. In October and November, BJCL held a series of three book giveaways. When these concluded on November 20th, every student in Pre-Kindergarten through 4th Grade had chosen three books to take home and keep. The children were excited to browse among picture books and chapter books, fiction and non-fiction titles, hard and soft cover volumes. Each book selected was outfitted with a glossy green and white bookplate and a sticker with the child’s name, making it a truly personal gift. The delighted students filled BJCL’s “wish book” with titles they’re hoping to find at our winter book distributions. Amy Heumann pictured with the students and the books and bears they received as holiday gifts In December, Buffalo Jewish Coalition from Mary Ann Budin and Amy Heumann. for Literacy “adopted” three families whom the staff of Highgate Heights identified as being in particular need during the holiday season. Using a wish list provided to us, BJCL volunteers shopped for clothing and shoes, bedding, jewelry, electronics, books, art supplies, toys and games, and gift cards. These “elves” delivered the wrapped, labeled gifts to school, happily anticipating the joy they would bring to the recipients Far left: Buffalo and their families. Many BJCL volunteers Jewish Coalition for Literary also provided small holiday gifts and volunteers, Carin candy to the children in the classes Greenfield and where they spend an hour or more each a friend. Above: Beth Joseph and week assisting the teachers in promoting Maryanne Budin. literacy. The most important gifts are not Left: Karen “presents,” but the “presence” of BJCL Wiseman. tutors in the classrooms of Highgate each with whom they work. When we offer a group? We’d love to have you! In the week. The volunteers provide much- child a book he or she requested months winter, we’ll be sponsoring a second needed support to teachers and staff as before, that youngster realizes that his/ round of book giveaways. Do you have they attempt to meet the considerable her “wish” has been heard, prioritized, new or like-new books, appropriate for needs of their students. For the children, and fulfilled by responsive adults. children in Pre-K through 4th Grade, our volunteers offer the opportunity for Some Buffalo Jewish Coalition for that you’d be willing to donate? We’d be one-to-one or small group interaction. Literacy volunteers are former teachers, most appreciative. Please contact Ellen They are enthusiastic “reading buddies”, but most are not. It takes no special Goldstein at Jewish Federation (716- language models, patient listeners, training to be part of our program, just 204-2243 or [email protected]) mentors, and devoted friends who a desire to make a real difference in or Amy Heumann (716-689-3722 or demonstrate care and concern by giving the life of a child. Do you have an [email protected]) to let us know their time and talents to the students hour each week to become part of our how you can help. 16 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 17 COMMUNITY Toby Laping Honored by Amherst Senior Citizens Foundation with the 2015 Creative Advocate Award Toby Laping was awarded the Amherst Senior Citizens Foundation (ASCF) 2015 Creative Advocate Award this fall at the ASCF Annual Awards dinner, which honored individuals significantly contributing to the well-being of seniors. In announcing the award, The ASCF indicated she was simply the ideal candidate to receive the ASCF’s inaugural Creative Advocate Award. The Creative Advocate Award recognizes an individual or organization which has taken a creative new idea and developed it into a successful program, service or policy which provides support to area senior citizens. Our 2015 honoree, Toby F. Laping, Ph.D., L.M.S.W., is a Western New York pioneer and visionary in the field of geriatric care management. A strong advocate, she has worked tirelessly to develop positive societal attitudes toward the aging and to raise the consciousness level of the elderly regarding their potential. The wife of architect John Laping, and daughter of the late Rabbi Joseph L. Fink and the late Janet (Top) miriam treger honig and honoree D. Fink, Toby formed the region’s first private Dr. Toby Laping geriatric care management firm in the 1980s and (Bottom) John Laping, John & Toby’s her involvement in and dedication to this advocacy daughter, Dr. Toby Laping, miriam treger honig and Dr. Maureen Millane continues today. She is also a founding member of Canopy of Neighbors, a non-profit organization geriatric care management firm, where housed on Delaware Avene at Temple Beth Zion she continues to work on a consulting that links subscribers with resources which help basis with the successor firm, Laping, them to age in place, providing them the means Surdej Associates, LLC. and confidence to remain in their own homes In 2010, Toby’s involvement in as they grow older. Toby also served as a faculty and influence on issues related to the member with the University of Buffalo’s Division elderly was recognized when she was of Geriatrics of the Medical School, and with the named the recipient of the “Dr. Evan Graduate School of Social Work. In these positions Calkins Award for Meritorious Service” she instructed UB students on topics related to by Network in Aging of Western New aging and also served as a mentor and internship York, Inc., honoring a person who has field supervisor. In 1982 she founded Laping, made a significant contribution to the Sayers Associates Western New York’s first private field of aging in Western New York.
16 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 17 COMMUNITY “Au-Some” Swimmers By Eric Poniatowski
The Jewish Community Center of Greater Buffalo (JCC) Holland Family Building is providing children in laminated visual cards that illustrate Western New York diagnosed with pool safety and swim skills. Relationship autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) building and social interaction are key with a unique swim program, aspects of Au-Some Swimmers; each Au-Some Swimmers. It is designed to week the child works with the same teach critical life skills and provide a instructor. gathering place for families to connect Larkin Walling, who is 14 years old, and support each other. Au-Some (Top left) Noah has attended Au-Some Swimmers since Swimmers began in July 2013 as a Kiblin and Laura the summer of 2014. “Our entire family Prendergast (Top collaboration between the JCC and right) Larkin Walling loves this program. All of the staff at the Children’s Guild Foundation and Gabby Gannon, the pool are friendly, fun, and genuinely Autism Spectrum Disorder Center at (lower left) Ian care about the work that they do with Marciniak and Women and Children’s Hospital of our children” says Larkin’s mom Kerrin Bridget O’Grady Buffalo, a multidisciplinary center Walling. for evaluation and diagnosis of ASDs Au-Some Swimmers mom Dana in Western New York. Marciniak agrees. “This program gives Au-Some Swimmers is offered year my 5 year old son, Ian, and so many round and has been supported by grants other children who live with autism, the from multiple generous organizations opportunity to not only learn to swim, over the past two years. They include but develop life-saving skills on their the Variety Club of Buffalo, Erie County terms surrounding by people who fully Youth Bureau, Doug Flutie Jr. Foundation support them. I feel extremely lucky to for Autism, and Autism Speaks. In have a program like Au-Some Swimmers Au-Some Swimmers, the child receives in multiple sessions. For safety, all and in many cases strong independent in our area and would love to see more a private swim lesson, however it is not Au-Some Swimmers instructors are swimmers.” children have the chance to experience just a program for the child; Au-Some American Red Cross Lifeguard, First Half hour swim lessons are offered what we have.” Swimmers is for the whole family! Aid, CPR, AED certified and embrace on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Au-Some Swimmers takes place at Parents and siblings are invited into the the unique opportunity they have at Saturdays. The curriculum of Au-Some 787 Delaware Avenue: Buffalo, NY pool to help with the swim lesson. The the JCC. “Teaching a child diagnosed Swimmers follows the American Red 14209. For more information please family is also welcome to play together with autism requires patience and the Cross Learn to Swim Program. The contact Eric Poniatowski, Aquatics in the pool after the lesson. ability to adapt when the lesson does instructors demonstrate skills such a Director, at eponiatowski@jccbuffalo. Since 2013, 60 children have not go as planned” comments instructor feet first entry, putting face in the water, org or (716) 886-3172 x 411. The participated in Au-Some Swimmers, and Laura Prendergast. “My students have kicking, and pulling. The instructors winter session is January – March, and 90% of the participants have enrolled become more comfortable in the water also communicate with children using the spring session is April – June.
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5 THINGS YOU CAN DO in February to repair the world
Books for Kids. Donate one or more new or gently used children’s books 1» to the Jewish Federation’s Buffalo Jewish Coalition for Literacy program. Amy Heumann, Carin Greenfield and other volunteers will distribute them to Buffalo Public School #80 children. Bring them to the Jewish Federation office or email [email protected].
Sweet Charity, a fabulous Fundraiser for the Food Bank of WNY, 2» takes place Thursday, February 4th at the Atrium @ Rich’s, One Robert Rich Way, Buffalo, NY. $75 will get you in the door. Call Mike Billoni to sponsor, or purchase a ticket at 716-935-6677.
Happy Hour for a Cause. February 25. 5:30-7:30 benefitting the 3» American Cancer Society. @ North American Breweries, 50 Fountain Plaza. $15-$20. [email protected].
The Big Bake-Hamentaschen. February 23. For Nickel City Jews and 4» young Jewish adults. 6:30-9:30pm. Artisan Kitchen and Baths. $15. RSVP required- Facebook.com/NickelCityJews.
Mega Challah Bake – sponsored by JDC for women & girls. February 28. 5» 7:30pm. Pre-registration required. www.BuffaloChallahBake.com
WHERE IN JBFLO ? Where is this found in Western New York? The first 5 people to correctly identify the location will win a $10 lunch to the JCC’s Tel Aviv Café’.
E-mail your answers to [email protected] We are repeating last month’s photo, as NO ONE was able to identify the painting. Fran and Michael Paskowitz teased the editor with a few suggestions, but did not identify the piece.
18 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 19 SYNAGOGUES AGENCIES Jewish Community Agencies in Western New York Bureau of Jewish Education Richard Zakalik- Executive Director 2640 North Forest Road Gretchen Gross - President Getzville, NY 14068 Holland Family Building TEL 716-204-5380 | FAX 716-688-3572 787 Delaware Avenue www.bjebuffalo.org Buffalo, NY 14209 Jill Komm - Executive Director TEL 716-886-3145 | FAX 716-886-1367 Michael Berger - President www.jccbuffalo.org
Chabad House of Buffalo Jewish Discovery Center 2450 North Forest Road 757 Hopkins Road Getzville, NY 14068 Williamsville, NY 14221 TEL 716-688-1642 | FAX 716-688-1643 212 Exeter Rd. www.chabadbuffalo.com Williamsville, NY 14221 (office) Rabbi Moshe Gurary- Director TEL: 716-639-7600 TEL: 716-632-0467 Chai Early Childhood Center Rabbi Heschel Greenberg 757 Hopkins Road Rabbi Laizer Labkovski Williamsville, NY 14221 www.jewishdiscovery.org TEL 716 580-4600 www.chainursery.com Jewish Family Service Of Buffalo And Chani Labkovski -Director Erie County 70 Barker Street Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies Buffalo, NY 14209 2640 North Forest Road TEL 716-883-1914 | FAX 716-883-7637 Getzville, NY 14068 www.jfsbuffalo.org TEL 716-204-1133 | FAX 716-204-1129 Marlene Schillinger- Executive Director www.jewishphilanthropies.org Larry Rubin- Chair Peter Fleischmann- Director & CEO Ray Fink- President Jewish Federation Apartments 275 Essjay Road Hadassah Williamsville, NY 14221 2640 North Forest Road TEL 716-631-8471 | FAX 716-631-8768 Getzville, NY 14068 www.jewishfederationapartments.org TEL 716-688-5260 Karen Greenspan- President [email protected] Kathleen Haggerty- Property Manager Marlene Katzel- Co-President Maxine Seller- Co-President Jewish Federation of Greater Buffalo 2640 North Forest Road Hebrew Benevolent Loan Association Getzville, NY 14068 2640 North Forest Road in FJP offices TEL 716-204-2241 | FAX 716-929-0482 Getzville, NY 14068 www.jfedbflo.com TEL 716-204-0542 Rob Goldberg- CEO & Executive Director Sam Golden- Loan Officer Howard Rosenhoch- President Barbara Sitrin- President Jewish Federation Cemetery Hillel of Buffalo Campus Foundation Corporation, Inc. for Jewish Life 2640 North Forest Road 520 Lee Entrance/UB Commons Getzville, NY 14068 Suite # 210 TEL 716-204-2246 | FAX 716-929-0482 W. Amherst, NY 14228 www.jfedbflo.com TEL 716-645-8787 | FAX 716-639-7817 Deborah Pivarsi- Director www.hillelofbuffalo.org Jerome D. Carrel- President Jay L. Mesnekoff Dan Metchnik - Director Kadimah Academy Director Institute of Jewish Thought and 1085 Eggert Road Heritage Amherst, NY 14226 712 Clemens Hall TEL 716-836-6903 | FAX 716-837-7322 University at Buffalo www.kadimah.org Buffalo, NY 14260 Einav Symons- Head of School TEL 716-645-3695 FAX 716-645-3473 Jonathan Epstein- President Email: [email protected] http://www.jewishstudies.buffalo.edu/ Ohr Temimim School Dr. Richard A. Cohen, Director 411 John James Audubon Parkway W. Amherst, NY 14228 Holocaust Resource Center TEL 716-568-0226 | FAX 716-636-1899 336 Harris Hill Road, Suite 302 www.ohrtemimimschool.com Williamsville, NY 14221 Rabbi Shmuel Shanowitz- Principal TEL: 716-634-9535 Jonathan Gellman - President www.holocaustcenterbuff.com Sharon M. Jacobs- Co-President Weinberg Campus Pieter Weinrieb- Co-President 2700 North Forest Road Mara Koven Gelman- Executive Director Getzville, NY 14068 TEL 716-639-3311 | FAX 716-639-3309 Jewish Community Center of Greater www.weinbergcampus.org Buffalo, Inc. David Dunkelman- President & CEO Benderson Family Building Kenneth Rogers- Chairman of the Board 2640 North Forest Road of Directors Getzville, NY 14068 TEL 716-688-4033 | FAX 716-688-3572 20 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 AGENCIES SYNAGOGUES
Yad B’Yad Himmel Family Chapel A program of the Bureau of Jewish (Unaffiliated) Education 275 Essjay Road TEL 716-204-5380 / FAX 716-688-3572 Williamsville, NY 14221 www.yadbyad.org Pinkhos Blitshteyn- President Cindy Komm- Chair Rabbi Daniel Shuman Western New York Saranac Synagogue (Orthodox) Synagogues and Temples Rabbi Nesanel Cadle Chabad House of Buffalo (unaffiliated) President - Shmuel Rashkin 2450 North. Forest Rd, Vice President - Reuven Alt Getzville, NY 14068 Gabbai David Kunkel TEL 716-688-1642 85 Saranac Avenue www.chabadbuffalo.com Buffalo New York 14216 TEL 716 876 1284 Congregation Beth Abraham www.SaranacSynagogue.org (Conservative) 1073 Elmwood Avenue Temple Beth Tzedek Buffalo, NY 14222 (Conservative) www.congregationbethabraham.net 621 Getzville Road Amherst, NY 14226 Congregation B’nai Shalom Rabbi Perry Netter (Conservative) Cantor Mark Spindler 1641 North Forest Rd. Harvey Brenner - Executive Director Williamsville, NY 14221 Leon Komm - President TEL 716-689-8203 TEL 716- 838-3232 [email protected] www.btzbuffalo.org www.bnaishalombuffalo.org Temple Beth Zion Congregation Hesed Abraham (Reform) 215 Hall Ave Sanctuary: 805 Delaware Avenue Jamestown, NY 14701 Buffalo, NY 14209 Rabbi Allen Podet Religious School and Offices: TEL 716-484-1800 700 Sweet Home Road Amherst, NY 14226 Congregation Shir Shalom Rabbi Gary Pokras- Sr. Rabbi (Reform/ Reconstructionist) Rabbi Adam Scheldt- Asst. Rabbi 4660 Sheridan Drive Cantor Penny Myers Williamsville, NY 14221 Mark Criden - Executive Director TEL 716-633-8877 Warren Clark - President Rabbi Alexander Lazarus-Klein TEL 716-836-6565 Cantor Sharon Eve Colbert www.tbz.org Joanne Marquisee - Executive Director Todd Sugarman - President Temple Beth El www.shirshalombuffalo.org (Reform) 720 Ashland Avenue Congregation Havurah Niagara Falls, NY 14301 6320 Main St., Williamsville, NY 14221 Cantorial Soloist Barry Rose Bernard Schenkler, President Robert Duell- President Annette Pinder, Membership Chair TEL 716-282-2717 TEL 716-689-2256 www.niagarafallstemple.com www.congregationhavurah.org [email protected] The Family Shul (Unaffiliated) Kehillat Ohr Tzion (Modern Orthodox) 757 Hopkins Road 879 Hopkins Rd Williamsville, NY 14221 Williamsville, NY 14221 Rabbi Heschel Greenberg Email: [email protected] Rabbi Laizer Labkovski Rabbi Joshua Strosberg 716-639-7600 Cheryl Stein- President http://ohrtzion.org/kot Young Israel of Greater Buffalo (Orthodox) Knesset Center (Orthodox) 105 Maple Road 500 Starin Avenue Williamsville, NY 14221 Buffalo, NY 14214 Richard G. Berger- President TEL 716-832-5063 TEL 716-634-0212 Rabbi Shmaryahu Charitonow www.yibuffalo.org www.chabad.org Located in the beautiful Jewish Federation Apartments Muskoka region, we feature outstanding programs on the waterfront, in sports and outdoor Attention Snowbirds! adventure, and in the arts – all Due to postal regulations, the Jewish Journal of Western New York will within of a vibrant, fun, and no longer be forwarded to “temporary change” addresses. If you plan to caring Jewish community. be away from your permanent address and will have your first class mail forwarded to your temporary address and would like to continue to receive First-time US campers receive 15% off tuition! - Register Today! the Jewish Journal over the winter or the summer, please call Nadine Ryback at 716-204-2248 to give us your “temporary” address. Thank you!
February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 21 SYNAGOGUES The Clergy Team Is In Place At Shir Shalom By Peter Simon senior. Sandra was recently accepted Congregation Shir Shalom confirmed to programs at both the State last month the appointment of a new University of Buffalo and Cantor and the continuation of their D’Youville College that would Rabbi’s contract solidifying a winning give her the opportunity to earn a clergy team for the next five years. Rabbi doctoral degree in pharmacology Alex Lazarus-Klein, who has earned a in six years rather than the usual reputation for excellence in both internal eight, and to be near her parents. Shir Shalom matters and involvement in Sandra will probably attend one the larger community, recently agreed to of those two Buffalo area schools, a new five year contract. Just weeks later, her mother said. Cantor Arlene Frank, following a sterling Cantor Frank was available “audition” weekend here, signed a five- following 13 years in Spring Valley year agreement with Shir Shalom. She because her temple merged with begins on July 1, following 13 years at a another synagogue and cut staff synagogue in Spring Valley, 22 miles north for financial reasons. She learned of Manhattan. of the Shir Shalom opening Both developments were approved through an advertisement and unanimously by the Temple’s Board first met Sugarman at a Union of Trustees, and are viewed as the key for Reform Judaism conference elements in maximizing the Temple’s in Florida. A Shir Shalom search vitality and growth. “It’s a bright future,” Rabbi Alex Lazarus-Klein Cantor Arlene Frank committee deliberated for 18 said Todd Sugarman, the Shir Shalom months before Cantor Frank president. “I think we can look ahead to a Reform temple and Sinai was part of the visit here, Rabbi Lazarus-Klein said. “She knows entered the picture. really great things.” Reconstructionist movement. At the same time, how to do the job” he said. “I think we’re going “Until now we just felt we Rabbi Lazarus-Klein, a native of Rabbi Lazarus-Klein furthered a widespread to make a great team.” hadn’t found the right person,” Philadelphia, said he and his family consider reputation as an attentive, approachable, sincere During a Sunday morning performance for said Sugarman, who co-chaired Buffalo their home and are “overjoyed” by and enthusiastic spiritual leader. the Temple board, Cantor Frank won sparkling the search committee with Dr. the five-year package. “We love Buffalo and That’s one of the main reasons Cantor Frank reviews for her voice, Bimah presence and range Mindy Weinman. “We didn’t lose its ‘can-do’ sense of community,” he said. “It decided to come to Shir Shalom. “He’s a mensch,” of musical abilities. Her selections included a faith and we learned a lot. We’re (the contract) gives us stability. It’s really Cantor Frank said. “He seems like a great guy, somber, introspective piece from the Kol Nidre at a crossroads now. We need to the perfect marriage.” and to be forward-looking and open to new service and a joyful, folksy Hanukah song in bring in someone who can make After serving for four years as the rabbi possibilities. It seemed to me like a no-brainer.” the Ladino language. Cantor Frank’s husband, a difference.” at Temple Sinai, Rabbi Lazarus-Klein Cantor Frank also said Sugarman’s tireless Michael, is an outside sales representative for Cantor Sharon Colbert, who became the spiritual leader at Shir Shalom recruiting efforts and his ability to communicate dental products, and often accompanies his wife originally planned to retire last in 2012 when it was formed through the Shir Shalom’s appeal—even before Cantor Frank on guitar. The couple has three daughters- April, summer, instead agreed to stay merger of Sinai and Temple Beth Am. He visited Buffalo—were also huge factors in her 27, who works for a pharmaceutical marketing on an extra year while the search is widely credited with guiding the success decision. “He made this happen,” she said. firm in New York City; Rebecca, 25, who is continued. She will retire July 1 to of the merger, which had the potential The Cantor’s desire and ability to share her pursuing a doctoral degree in audiology in live in Texas with her family. to be especially tricky since Beth Am was love of music was obvious during her weekend Arizona, and Sandra, an 18-year-old high school
Ezra Donner, son of Kathy Ellis and the late Barry S. Donner, earned his Doctorate of Music Composition at Indiana University in Bloomington, on December 19, 2015. In attendance were his mother, Kathy Ellis, sister Hannah Donner, girlfriend Claire Divizio and uncle Michael Ellis III. Ezra resides in Ann Arbor, Michigan and is the Music Director for the University of Michigan Gilbert and Sullivan Society. 22 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 SYNAGOGUES Special Shabbat CBA to Host At Shir Shalom Scout Shabbat Please join us for “Team Spirit Shabbat” February 26 on Friday, February 5, 2016 at 7:00pm. Wear your team jersey or the jersey of your favorite team. For all ages!
The evening begins with Happy Half Hour at 6:30pm. Have a nosh and a beverage before services. The evening concludes with our annual Chocolate Cook off! Calling all chocoholics to cast your vote for your favorite chocolate entry. Everyone is welcome.
Congregation Beth Abraham will be hosting “Scout Shabbat” with the WNY Jewish Committee on Scouting (JCOS), Friday February 26 at 6:30 PM. This marks the third time Jewish Scouting has participated in services with CBA. All Boy Scouts, Cub Scouts, Girl Scouts, and their families are invited to attend. Scouts should wear uniforms and bring their pack and troop flags to display. For Congregation Shir Shalom • 4660 Sheridan Drive, Williamsville, NY 14221 those interested in Jewish scouting, there 716.633.8877 • shirshalombuffalo.org will be representatives from the Greater Niagara Frontier Council of Boy Scouts of America’s Jewish Committee on Scouting at the service. For more information on the WNY JCOS, please visit the website Beth Tzedek and B’nai Shalom www.wnyjcos.weebly.com. Beth Abraham is located at 1073 to Host 3rd JRT Elmwood Avenue (near Bird) in the heart of the Elmwood Village. As always, our musical services, led by Cantor Irwin Theater Night Event Gelman, are followed by a dairy, potluck Congregation B’nai Shalom and Temple Oneg Shabbat. Beth Tzedek are pleased to be joining For further information on this and other together to attend the Jewish Repertory CBA programs, please visit the website www. Theatre’s production of Bad Jews on congregationbethabraham.net. The entire Saturday, February 20th. The evening will community is cordially invited to participate begin at 7:00pm with a wine and cheese in all CBA events. reception in the Lippman Lounge at the JCC Benderson Building. This will include a Havdalah service and will be catered by the JCC’s Myers Tel Aviv Café. Following the reception, the group will attend the performance, starting at 8:00pm. This is the third time the two congregations have shared this social evening. “We are thrilled to once again have the opportunity to unite our congregations while supporting the JRT,” made through either congregation. Special said Helen Weinstein of B’nai Shalom, who pricing is available for JRT season ticket FREE is again organizing the event with Beth holders. Service Call Tzedek’s Linda Boxer. For more information or to make with Repair Pre-paid reservations, that include both reservations, contact: Beth Tzedek at 838- the reception and theater tickets, are 3232 / [email protected] or B’nai Shalom 716-217-2331 required by February 9th and may be at 689-8203 / [email protected]. February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 23 SYNAGOGUES Congregation Havurah Ohr Tzion “Way Back When” Volunteers on Christmas Social Action
a playlet by Dr. Grant Golden Peter and Janet Kehillat Ohr Tzion’s (KOT) Social Action Ostrow were among Committee organized a collection of the Havurah members cleaning and paper products for Family Saturday, February 6 who prepared and Promise, a local organization that works served holiday lunches to assist homeless families and to find at noon at the soup kitchen housing that will keep the family together. at Durham AME Zion A car full of donations was delivered to the Temple Beth Zion, Church in Buffalo office of Family Promise in the beginning 805 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo this past Christmas. of January. Havurah members also Come to TBZ to see a creative and served and prepared hilarious playlet by Dr Grant Golden titled Christmas meals “Way Back When.” This biblical farce is based at Good Shepherd on the famous and problematic story of the Community of Faith Akeida, the binding of Isaac. in South Buffalo. Havurah has had This event is free and open to the a long tradition of Peter and Janet Ostrow community. community service, volunteering for soup the Buffalo Mission as well as preparing The playlet will follow Shabbat morning kitchens in numerous and serving Thanksgiving meals in the spirit services and a kiddush luncheon will follow. local churches, the of Tzedakah to feed the hungry and needy Salvation Army, and among us. Tu B’Shevat was celebrated at KOT with an evening of inspiration and exotic fruit. Rabbi Strosberg led the participants through a Tu B’Shevat Seder. The community was, of course, invited to take part in this celebration of the new year of trees, which took place at the end of January. The Fundraising Committee, which always arranges activities which are fun and open to the community, is planning an indoor Tailgating Party on Sunday, February 7 at KOT at 7 pm. There will be kosher food, basket raffles and much more. Rabbi Strosberg will be starting a new class for adults on Monday evenings at 7:15. The participants will meet and discuss Rabbi Jonathan Sacks’ book The Great Partnership--Science, Religion and the Search for Meaning. For more information contact [email protected]. Two study groups take place on a weekly basis. One is a women’s group Knowledgeable that meets after services every Shabbat to discuss the weekly Torah reading and the and Friendly other is a Talmud study group that meets every Sunday after morning minyan. KOT welcomes interested visitors from the community to attend services, classes or special events. For more information email the Rabbi or President Cheryl Stein [email protected]. 24 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 SYNAGOGUES
Temple Beth Zion Choir performed at BPO Chorus Weinberg Campus this holiday season Unity Concert Sunday, February 14, 7 PM Temple Beth Zion, 805 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo
The 2016 BPO Chorus will On Friday December grace the bimah in Temple 11th at Temple Beth Beth Zion’s main sanctuary for Zion’s Broder building, Temple members a special Unity Concert. The celebrated the 6th concert will be conducted by night of Chanukah Adam Luebke with a monthly and feature the Houghton Shabbat Alive service which is led by our College Choir and Immaculata children’s choir Academy Choir. and TBZ band led by Cantor Penny S. Myers. Also seen are Tickets are available choir pictures from on the BPO Chorus website a performance at at http://bpchorus.org/. Weinberg Campus.
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purchase tickets, call 716-204-2084. Amherst Street in Buffalo. Pre-Teen Scene Theater This event is a fundraiser to support community Cultural Arts programs, including the $15/person. Jewish Repertory Theatre, Buffalo International Film Festival and the JCC Book & Arts “Number The Stars” RSVP @ Facebook.com/ Fair, art galleries and concerts. @ Theater of Youth. NickelCityJews Call 716-204-5380 or [email protected] February 24 Indoor Tailgating Party. Israel Info Night Kehillat Ohr Tzion. 7:00pm. at the Bureau of Jewish Education Contact [email protected] with scholarship opportunities info from Foundation for Jewish February 14 Philanthropies. BPO Chorus Unity Concert. 5:30pm. JCC/ Lippman Lounge. 7:00pm. Temple Beth Zion. Call 716-204-5381 805 Delaware Ave. 716-836-6565 February 26 February 17 Scout Shabbat JCC & Fiero Restaurant team up at Congregation Beth Abraham. for a benefit for JCC’s Jewish 6:30 pm. Cultural Arts. 1073 Elmwood Ave. 6:00 pm. 408 Evans in Williamsville. www.congregationbethabraham.net $50/$75. Call 716-204-2084 February 28 February 20 Mega Challah Bake at the Jewish Join Congregation B’nai Shalom Over 81 Years of Jewish Camping and Temple Beth Tzedek at the JRT’s Discovery Center. performance of Bad Jews. 7:30 pm $20/pre-registration Kehillah (Community) & Ruah (Spirit) 7:00pm. @ JRT in the JCC/ Benderson required. Family Building. There is a cost. www.BuffaloChallah Bake.com 9:00am-3:00pm. Limited Space Available for Summer 2016 RSVP 716-838-3232 or www.campsenecalake.com · [email protected] · 585-461-2000 716-689-8203 Call 716-204-2241 to volunteer
28 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 AGENCIES
INTRODUCTION TO JUDAISM COURSE and Mourning Rituals. He returns to teach One G-d: Many Ways to Believe and SHOWCASES INSPIRING FACULTY the Jews as The Chosen People. He also teaches a class on The Hebrew Bible and By Ethel Melzer, Adult Education Director, The Covenant with G-d. Bureau of Jewish Education Rabbi Joshua Strosberg from Kehillat Ohr Tzion teaches a class on The Jewish The 14 week Introduction to Judaism course is Home and another class on Mitzvot, co-sponsored by the Buffalo Board of Rabbis and the Jewish Ethics/Values, Tzedakah and Bureau of Jewish Education. The Rabbis send individuals Jewish Worship. who have come to them to intermarry or explore their Once and awhile – some of the Jewish conversion to Judaism. They design the curriculum members of our community decide they and then teach the classes. The Bureau makes the want to learn more about Judaism from arrangements, collects tuition, provides folders with a pluralistic point of view from the five handout materials, serves refreshments and conducts a rabbis who cover the spectrum from field trip to the Buffalo Mikvah. Since January 2012, a Reform to Orthodox. They sign up and total of 127 individuals have received their Introduction attend an Introduction to Judaism course to Judaism “Certificate of Completion.” and are “blown away” with the high level Rabbi Alex Lazarus-Klein from Congregation Shir of scholarship displayed by our rabbis Shalom begins the course with an Overview of the 14 Rabbi Alex teaching about the Torah to Intro to Judaism students and the amount of information they week curriculum – teaches the Cycle of the Jewish Year: receive in the classes. The Jewish High Holidays – and, in week fourteen, ends Midrash and teaches a class on Days: Sukkot, Passover, A new Introduction to Judaism course the course by teaching: The American Jewish Community Anti-Semitism, the Holocaust, The Shavuot, Chanukah and will be starting again next fall. Please Today: One People, Many Views. State of Israel and Zionism. Tisha B’Av. go online to www.bjebuffalo.org to see Rabbi Perry Netter from Temple Beth Tzedek teaches Rabbi Gary Pokras from Temple Rabbi Adam Scheldt from what the BJE is offering or contact Ethel The Jewish Life Cycle: Ritual and Covenant – Birth, Beth Zion teaches The Cycle of Temple Beth Zion leads Melzer, Director of Adult Education at Education, Marriage and Divorce. He also conducts a the Jewish Year: An Overview and a class in The Jewish Life [email protected] or call 204-5380 class on Rabbinic Literature: the Mishnah, Talmud and Shabbat and The Festivals and Other Cycle: Sickness, Dying, Death for more information.
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AGENCIES CATHERINE SHUMAN MILLER, Hillel’s Dan Metchnik To Keynote Israel NEW ISRAEL Scholarship Launch SCHOLARSHIP The Israel Scholarship Committee of the Donors have the satisfaction of CHAIR Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies in helping young people have an experience collaboration with the High School of of a lifetime and seeing the income Jewish Studies of the Bureau of Jewish from their gift used year after year for Education will hold an Israel Information countless students into the future. Such Night on Wednesday, February 24th at funds are dedicated in the donor’s name 5:30 p.m. in the Lippman Lounge on the or to honor or memorialize loved ones. Second Floor of the Jewish Community Donors may also designate qualifications Center Benderson Family Building. The for scholarship recipients; i.e., members keynote speaker of the event will be Dan of a particular temple or students at a Metchnik, our Director and Fellow at Hillel particular school.
of Buffalo. An Israeli, Dan came to Buffalo Dan The goal of the Israel Scholarship three years ago as a community shaliach Metchnik Committee is to encourage participation and has been a leader in the resurgence of our young people in structured in the Hillel Program at the University at and supervised programs of travel to Buffalo. He will speak about the amazing Jeannette & Sydney S. Abzug Fund Israel under Jewish organizational experience that our teens have in Israel Joel & Norman Katz auspices. Applications will be reviewed when they participate in any of the Memorial Fund by a volunteer committee composed Catherine Shuman Miller numerous summer programs sponsored of members active in religious and by national Jewish organizations. Dr. Nathan & Toby Ticktin communal institutions in the area and The Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies Catherine Shuman Miller, newly Back Fund grants will be awarded on the basis of has appointed Catherine Shuman Miller as appointed Chair of the Foundation’s Mary F. Levine Fund three factors: Chair of its Israel Scholarship Committee. Israel Scholarship Committee, She succeeds Nancy Schiller who has announced that a limited amount of Joseph and Anna Gartner 1. Financial need served in that position for the past eight financial assistance is available for Foundation Fund 2. Demonstrated Jewish years. One of the original founders of high school and college age students Lila & Shay Mintz Fund commitment the Israel Scholarship Program, Nancy to travel and study in Israel. Students 3. Potential to make a contribution Dr. Irwin & Sylvia Ginsberg Fund will remain an active member of the participating in approved programs to the Jewish community Committee. will be eligible for assistance for the Nobel Family Fund An accomplished artist and teacher, upcoming summer based upon financial Mildred & Jack Haniford Fund Applications and information are Cathy has long been active in the need. Over the past thirty years, 166 available at the Foundation office, 2640 Jewish community serving in numerous students have been recipients of grants Harvey & Nancy Schiller Fund North Forest Road, Suite 200, Getzville, capacities with the Jewish Federation of totaling $151,350. Milton J. Hurwitz Fund NY 14068; phone 204-1133 or on the Greater Buffalo, the Jewish Community Scholarships will be awarded from web at www.jewishphilanthropies.org. Center, and Kadimah Academy where individual endowment funds, which Anna Schwartz Memorial Fund Deadline for submission of applications she has taught since 1997. A graduate of have been established by donors for Dvorah & Donald Joseph Fund for the coming summer is Friday, March the University of Michigan, Cathy hold a this special purpose. The Foundation 11th. Masters of Fine Arts from the University administers the following funds, which Howard & Leslie Zemsky Israel Experience Fund at Buffalo. Her work is held in numerous provide Israel scholarships: public and private collections. She and her husband, Dr. David S. Miller, are members of Temple Beth Tzedek and are the parents of two grown children, Hallie and Philip. Foundation Director, Peter Fleis- chmann, commented “we are delighted that Cathy has accepted this leadership position overseeing our annual grants program awarding financial assistance to students for Israel travel. As a mem- ber of our Committee for the past five years, Cathy is a strong advocate for Israel teen experiences. I look forward to working with her as our program devel- ops and grows in the years ahead”.
February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 31
AGENCIES HRC: Three Hundred Williamsville INCLUSION TASK FORCE North Sophomores Visit MEETS FEBRUARY 7 AT JCC “Lawyers without Rights” Exhibit Please join us for the next Jewish well-being of those who are vulnerable Community Inclusion Task Force meeting, and prone to isolation. The Task Force Three hundred Williamsville North Eve Everette, Sunday, February 7, 12:15 pm at the JCC, is working to facilitate the assessment High School sophomores visited Assistant Director 2640 N. Forest Road, Getzville, 14068. of needs and the development of of Anne Frank the exhibit “Lawyers without Project and The agenda will include presentations and effective and meaningful approaches Rights – Jewish Lawyers in Vice-President of updates from Jewish community leaders on organically, in partnership with not-for- Germany under the Third Reich” Education address inclusion approaches underway and under profits, philanthropies and government students after on December 16. It is on display development. We will collaborate on agencies. The Task Force approach is screening film Nov 30- Dec 20 at the Buffalo about importance fine-tuning existing inclusion programs, multifaceted and includes advocacy in and Erie County Public Library. The of remembering facilitating supports to enable full order to achieve its mission. exhibit was organized by Honorary the Holocaust participation in all community activities The basic human need for relationship, Consul of the Federal Republic and innovating to achieve effective community, learning and worship are of Germany Matthew Collard and inclusion where needed. powerful and undiminished by disability. The Holocaust Resource Center. The Task Force was created to provide Please bring forward your best ideas to Holocaust Survivor and Speaker an enduring forum for families, rabbis, achieve inclusion for every individual. Renee Joffe and VP of Education cantors, Jewish community agency The Task Force is open to the entire Eve Everette also spoke to students heads, lay leaders and volunteers to community. about personal responsibility and work collaboratively to ensure full and Please RSVP and contact Janet being an Upstander when we see seamless lifelong inclusion in all aspects Gunner for more information at something wrong. of our Jewish community for individuals 716-536-0454 or janet.gunner@gmail. Teacher Katy Oehler and Honorary Consul of with disabilities and to help ensure the com. Library staff Joy Testa Cinquino the Federal Republic of Germany Matthew and Anne Conable organized a Collard introduce full morning rotating through Students view exhibit exhibit to students HOLOCAUST RESOURCE CENTER six history and technology exhibits. The morning ended VISITS HEBREW HIGH with all students screening “Why CONFIRMATION CLASS – JANUARY 7, 2016 we Remember the Holocaust,” a film produced by The U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum and an interactive discussion by Eve Everette, the assistant director of The Anne Frank Project. Ms. Everette emphasized personal responsibility and importance of being an Upstander when we see Students, Renee Joffe (HRC Speakers Bureau, Matt Collard, wrong doing. Mara Koven-Gelman (ED of HRC) The exhibit was also sponsored by Christian Koelbl, III - Former Honorary Consul of the Federal Republic of Germany, in conjunction with the American Bar Association and German Federal Bar. The exhibit has been shown in nearly 100 cities in Germany, the United States and Renée Joffe, Marilyn Toth (board members other genocides that have taken place others parts of the world. The of HRC) and Mara Koven-Gelman (Executive since the Holocaust. idea for the exhibit was conceived Renee Joffe answers students questions about the Director) spoke with Hebrew High 10th One student summed up the evening, in 1998 when an Israeli lawyer exhibit and her experiences living in France during the Grade students about Tikkun Olam “Each of us can make a difference, no Holocaust asked the regional bar of Berlin (Repairing the World) and the importance matter how small, in making the world for a list of Jewish Lawyers whose names,” said Axel Filges, past president of the of learning the lessons of the Holocaust. a better place to live in.” The students licenses had been revoked by the German Federal Bar. “Some were able to leave the Renée Joffe shared her personal story will be creating a project to help others Nazi regime. country after the Nazis came into power, but very living in France during the Holocaust as part of confirmation requirements. “The regional bar decided not many of them were incarcerated or murdered. The and how her experiences demonstrate The evening was organized by Hebrew only to research a list of names non-Jewish German lawyers of those days remained that it is imperative no one remain a High, of the Bureau of Jewish Education but also to try to find out more silent. They failed miserably, and so did the lawyers’ bystander when they see others being teacher, Ayelet Harel. about the fates behind all those organizations. We do not know why.” persecuted. The class discussed several February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 33 AGENCIES Jewish Family Service Career Counseling Helps Students, Executives, Housewives Roadmap a Bright Working Future At play, little children sometimes act out president. what they want to “be” when they grow up August also is a current member of – a nurse, an astronaut, a dancer, musician, the American Counseling Association professional athlete or teacher. and the National Career Development In real life, however, people often miss Association. reaching their ideal career objective and “The first thing we do is speak find themselves wedded to work they don’t briefly with people by telephone enjoy, or under-employed. to find out what they are seeking Even people with a well-established and whether our services may be of professional presence can become assistance for them. If so, we set occupationally challenged by unexpected an in-person appointment to learn life change: With longer life spans, what the individual challenges are, older adults increasingly are redefining then recommend a course of action or starting a new career path to survive which might include job searching economically. materials, researching college and For over 50 years, Jewish Family Service graduate school majors, discovering of Buffalo and Erie County has provided JFS Senior Career Services Program Manager Lisa occupations and more,” she explains. career counseling that helps people August and Career Services Program Manager Peter Each client leaves with a clear idea Scott. optimize their occupational roadmap. of what steps they will need to take to “Our counselors have expertise in undecided about choosing a major or career move forward, she adds. evaluating qualifications and transferrable path – or students who have decided not to “I worked with a woman who was skills, and in assessing individual abilities, continue in college – and people returning to employed as a substitute teacher for interests and other factors that are critical in the workforce after a long absence can also a number of years, but was in need of defining personal marketability and a viable benefit from such support. finding employment that was more career path. Their extensive backgrounds “A career counselor is knowledgeable about stable due to a pending divorce,” in counseling and administration make career development and can help people gain recalls August. them highly skilled in helping people make insight into their interests, abilities, values “We performed a career assessment, major, productive life changes,” Marlene and personality, and to access specialized which gave us greater insight into A. Schillinger, JFS President and CEO says. information related to careers and the her skills, talents and preference. We JFS Career Services Program Manager workforce,” says August, who has worked for also took into account her extensive Lisa August advises a person to seek 20 years in career development, guiding young background as a community volunteer, career counseling when they need the people and adults from diverse backgrounds and and identified a career path for her assistance of someone who is objective, at all stages of life. in the not for profit world, where honest, realistic and supportive. She She has managed vocational counseling, job she could do program development, identifies among ideal candidates for searching and recruitment initiatives at Buffalo training and administration.” career counseling individuals who want State College, University at Buffalo and Bryant & JFS also partners with Adult Career to make a career change; who are under- Stratton College, and held leadership positions and Continuing Education Service employed, unemployed or laid off; or who with the State University of New York Career – Vocational Rehabilitation (ACCES- are struggling with difficulties in their Development Organization (SUNYCDO) and the VR) to provide specialized and current work environment. Western New York Association of College Career individualized Core Rehabilitation High school and college students Centers (WNYACCC), of which she is a past that helps people with a range of disabilities become self-sufficient and financially stable. “Affordable JFS career services are personalized for each client, and we EXPERIENCE ISRAEL THIS SUMMER have expertise in working with people from diverse backgrounds and all Have you ever wanted to swim in the Dead Sea or pray at the Western levels of experience, from high school Wall? Look no further! The Foundation for Jewish Philanthropies in student to executive,” August says. collaboration with The Bureau of Jewish Education can help teens For additional information or to travel to Israel this summer. make an appointment with JFS Career Services, call JFS Career Services Parents and teens (grades 9 - 12), are invited join us on February 24, 2016, from 6 - 6:30 pm at the Jewish Program Manager Peter Scott at 716- Community Center, 2640 North Forest Road in Getzville for our Israel Summer Travel Information night. We will have information on different travel programs, scholarships and applications. It is a great opportunity to learn what is 883-1914 or email pscott@jfsbuffalo. available and how to get the process started. Don’t miss out on the experience of a life time! We hope to see you there! org. Jewish Family Service of Buffalo & Erie County is located at 70 Barker For Further information please contact Melissa Schreiber, Program Director at [email protected] Street, Buffalo, NY 14209. Please visit or 716-204-5380. us online at www.jfsbuffalo.org. 34 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 AGENCIES ‘The Inside Story of the First Jewish Commonwealth’ TANGO LESSONS and ‘Nature’s Song: Cosmic, Animal and Plant Spirituality’ AT THE JCC HOLLAND CLASSES BEGINS ON SUNDAY, FAMILY BUILDING FEBRUARY 21 The Institute for Jewish Studies announces two new courses for the winter season of this year.
Course A: “THE FIRST JEWISH COMMONWEALTH: THE INSIDE STORY” Following Jewish history’s watershed moment - the Divine revelation at Sinai “If you can walk, you can dance the - the people of Israel were poised to tango.” So says Moshe Shulman, founding begin the implementation of the plan and member and leader of the Boleo Quartet purpose they were charged with upon their and the Buffalo Tango Orkestra. In addition liberation from Egyptian bondage. to being a musician playing the violin, viola After settling in the Promised Land and bandoneon, Moshe has been teaching with the Holy Temple as its epicenter, the tango lessons for the past several years in conditions were ideal for them to put the Canada and Israel as well as in the U.S. Divine plan into practice. Although this Rabbi Heschel Greenberg teaching last semester. For beginners, he says, learning the period included many high-points and basic steps of tango will improve balance, achievements, alas, our people lapsed into February 21, and continue for six Sundays and deserving of learning the rich heritage posture, and muscle strength…and all this idolatry, corruption, and division. This through Sunday, March 27. Course A -- ‘The of the Jewish people. Institute courses are while having fun responding to the rhythms resulted in a collapse of the commonwealth First Jewish Commonwealth: The Inside designed to provide an overview of Jewish of the tango. Moshe is offering a series of and deep disappointment. What went Story’ will be held at 10:00 AM and Course history, culture, thought, and tradition. six, one-hour lessons Tuesday evenings wrong? What lessons are we to learn from B -- ‘Natures’ Song: Cosmic, Animal and All are urged to participate in this mind from 8pm to 9pm beginning on Tuesday, our first attempt at creating a perfect Plant Spirituality’ will be held at 11:00 AM. enhancing experience. March 15th and continuing weekly through society? This course (Course B) will be also be The courses are taught by Rabbis April 19th at the Holland Family Building. This fascinating period in Jewish history offered on Tuesday evenings at 7:30 PM Heschel and Yehoshua Greenberg. Students For people wanting to continue exploring is characterized by triumphs and setbacks, All classes will be held at the Jewish will receive CDs of each weekly lesson. tango dancing beyond the basics, Moshe peaks and valleys, and ultimately tragedy Discovery Center, 757 Hopkins Road in The fee is $40 per course. You are will be offering more advanced courses in and exile. We will explore both the events Williamsville. encouraged to bring a spouse or friend the future. and the compelling personalities that The Institute for Jewish Studies is now along for free or to split the cost. If you are The cost per person is $75.00 for make this period so relevant and thought in its 18th year of quality adult Jewish not able to afford the total amount, you JCC members and $90 for community provoking to us today. education. Close to 1,000 people from all may give any other amount that you can participants. Pre-registration is necessary Course B: NATURE’S SONG: COSMIC, backgrounds and affiliations have benefited afford. No one will be turned away due to by March 7th as class size is limited to 14 ANIMAL AND PLANT SPIRITUALITY? — from almost 100 different courses in that a lack of funds. Special offer: High school people. Registration can be done at the The Soul of Your Cat and Dog and Their time. and college student can join free of charge. front desk of the Holland or Benderson Lessons for Humanity The Institute’s programs operate in To receive a brochure, further building or online at www.jccbuffalo.org. Does your dog have a consciousness? a non-judgmental environment and are information, registration material, or to be For more information, please call Sheila Does your cat have a soul? Does nature conducted with utmost respect in the a sponsor please contact Rabbi Yehoshua Shapiro at 886-3172, ext. 470 or email have a song? belief that every Jewish adult is capable Greenberg at 400-1550. [email protected]. Kabbalah asserts that every creature has a unique spiritual character. This applies to all tiers and facets of the universe, from the human level all the way to the - — seemingly insignificant, inanimate speck of JEWISH PRE TEEN SCENE FEBRUARY EVENT JOIN US! dust. The powerful, ancient midrashic work You are invited to come and see the book, Number the Stars, that has been brought to the stage, with the Bureau known as “Chapters of Song” introduces of Jewish Education’s Jewish Pre-Teen Scene. It will take place at the Theater of Youth on Sunday, February 7, 2016. us to Nature’s many voices, melodies, and Jewish Pre-Teen Scene is a BJE community based program open to all 5th-7th graders, regardless of spiritual rhythms. Each, we’re taught, makes affiliation, to gather for socializing and learning more about their Jewish heritage. This unique community a unique contribution to the symphony of based program is a way for pre-teens to make new friends while enjoying different cultural events. creation. We will study this exceptional The play Number the Stars was adapted from the Newbery Award-winning book by Lois Lowry. The play Midrash to gain an understanding of the takes place in 1943 and tells the story of courage, love and ingenuity through the perspective of a 14 year old deep spirituality in nature, and give us the girl living in Denmark. The story revolves around her experience trying to smuggle her Jewish best friend out ability to interact with the various elements of the country and into safety. It is an unforgettable story that shouldn’t be missed. We hope to see you there! of our universe on a more wholesome and For further information please contact Melissa Schreiber, Program Director at [email protected] elevated level. or 716-204-5380. Both one-hour courses start Sunday, February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 35 AGENCIES SAVE THE DATES
May 1 Yom Hashoah Morning Commemoration May 15 Yom Ha’atzmaut Celebration
Bureau of Jewish Education Part-Time Position Available
The Bureau of Jewish Education is accepting applications for the Director of Yad B’Yad. The part- time position involves providing direct programs for individuals with disabilities. The candidate should be a creative self-starter who can provide outreach and inclusion opportunities for this population. Some experience in fundraising and management of budgets will be required.
Any candidate must possess a minimum: Bachelor’s degree or advanced degree in Special Ed, Social Work or a comparable field.
Interested persons may submit a resume, cover letter and (2) reference letters to careers@ bjebuffalo.org.
36 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 AGENCIES Chai Friendship Circle at Chanukah
By Keren Green Chai Friendship Circle has been operating for about six months and is constantly collecting a database of Dozens of guests bowled this Chanukah in support Jewish volunteers and participants. Chai Friendship of Chai Friendship Circle. Jewish volunteers, Circle (CFC) fosters friendships between youth community members and participants gathered volunteers and youth with various special needs and at AMF Airport Lanes on Wednesday, December those who could simply benefit from a social group of 9th to celebrate new friendships. Thanks to the students. CFC is a participant driven organization and Labkovski and Greenberg team of engineers, encourages all members of the Jewish community to guests were even treated to a Chanukah lighting inquire about getting involved. CFC is co-facilitated by (lit by CFC Volunteer Charlie Herman), a larger Rabbi Labkovski and Keren Green. To learn more please than life bowling pin chanukiya. email Keren at [email protected].
EIGHT DAYS OF KINDNESS AND FESTIVITIES AT OHR TEMIMIM! By Gitty Meyers, 1st Grade Teacher and Preschool Coordinator at Ohr Temimim
Ohr Temimim Students participated in a wonderful mix of giving and getting with every day featuring another exciting activity! Even before Chanukah began, sudents earned prizes for winning art entries in the Hadassah Chanukah Art Contest. Decorating donuts was a big hit judging from the smiling, chocolate smeared faces! Children brought gifts to send to Chai Lifeline – an organization that brings joy and cheer to children who are spun the dreidel, the younger ones hit it ill or handicapped. Children participated hard! When the dreidel piñata finally burst in a Chanukah trivia game, earning gifts open, there were Chanukah goodies, treats, for their Chanukah knowledge. and toys for all! Bags were filled with relief Children spread the Chanukah spirit items for the Eight Nights of Giving drive across the city; visiting elders in the initiated by the Jewish Federation. Senior Center as well as the homebound. Morah Rivky Greenberg was the star and They sang songs, distributed holiday highlight of our Preschool Mommy and Me cards and goody bags, and lit candles Chanukah Party. After frosting donuts and with the overjoyed participants. The licking fingers, kids and moms joined in chefs merrily singing. Pictures of Dreidel tournament got intense as Morah Rivky’s one of a kind performances! smiling Mommies and kinder filled students competed for the title of dreidel The room was filled with noisy dreidel frames decorated by our very own champion! While the older students shakers, stomping Maccabees, and latke talented artists. February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 37 AGENCIES
JEWISH REPERTORY THEATRE PRESENTS BAD JEWS include: Brian Cavanagh, Lighting; Kari Bad Jews, the play by Joshua Harmon that Drozd, Costume; David Dwyer, Set/Props has been selling out across the United and Tom Makar, Sound. Amelia Scinta and States, Canada, England and Australia, will Christina Serio stage manage. Bad Jews was be presented February 4–28, at the Jewish a 2014 Lucille Lortel Awards nominee for Repertory Theatre. When Bad Jews premiered Outstanding Play, 2012-2013 Outer Critics in 2013, the New York Post called it, “gleefully Circle Award Nominee for Outstanding New entertaining” and the New York Times hailed Off-Broadway Play, and Joshua Harmon was the show as, “the best comedy of the season”. winner of Outstanding New Off-Broadway With a plot line that follows four twenty- Play for 2013-13 Outer Critics Circle Awards. somethings as they fight over the Chai The Jewish Repertory Theatre of Western necklace that was saved by their recently New York is a program of the JCC of Greater deceased grandfather even while he was Buffalo. All productions take place at the imprisoned in a concentration camp, Bad (R-l) JRT artistic director Saul Elkin, bad Jews director Steve Maxine and Robert Seller Theatre, in the Jews exposes unhappy truths, delectably with their feelings about being Vaughan, set designer david Dwyer, sound designer tom JCC Benderson Family Building at 2640 makar, costume designer Kari Drozd, stage manager Amelia savage humor and a whole lot of audience Jewish, following the death of Scinta, lighting designer Brian cavanagh. North Forest Road, Amherst, NY. and theatre reviewer attention. their grandfather. Daphna For more information on JRT, Harmon has said that the play was Feygenbaum, (Arin Lee Dandes) productions, dates and tickets, visit www. inspired by a Yom Hashoah service he volatile, self-assured and brought along his girlfriend Melody (Jamie Nablo), jewishrepertorytheatre.com. Tickets are attended during his sophomore year of unbending, considers herself a who is not Jewish. Stuck in the middle is Liam’s available at 688-4114, ext. 391, through college, in which the theme of the service “real” Jew. Liam (Nick Stevens), brother, Jonah (Adam Rath), who tries to get along with Showclix at 1-888-718-4253 (Monday- was “Grandchildren of Survivors.” In Bad her cousin, is a secular and everyone and stay out of the fire. Friday, 9am-9pm EST) or at either JCC Jews, it is the grandchildren who grapple entitled young man who has Bad Jews is directed by Steve Vaughan. Designers member services desk Mitzvah Tank comes to Buffalo Mendy Greenberg, age 16, son of Rabbi Levi and Rivky Greenberg, organized a Mitzvah “Tank” for the Buffalo Jewish community this Chanukah. He covered a rented RV with beautiful commercial size Chanukah posters, and even hooked up an all-weather trumpet speaker to play lively Chanukah music! For four days, the Mitzvah Tank drove around town spreading the holiday joy with all! It also stopped by near various Jewish institutions, inviting friends to come inside for a doughnut, latke or Menorah and candles if they needed it! Men had an opportunity to don Tefillin, too. All left with a beautiful and informative Chanukah booklet about the holiday. Mendy fundraised over $2,000 to cover the expenses of this amazing project. He Mendy Greenberg stood on a ladder, attaching commercial size Chanukah signs (which he designed) thanks the wonderful Buffalo community and friends for contributing on the Mitzvah “Tank”. and helping make this Mitzvah Tank a reality. A special thank you goes to Mendy offered his friend, Shneur Munitz for volunteering so much of his time being the to put on Tefillin with those Mitzvah Tank driver. visiting the “Tank”. Pictured here is Mendy with Andrew Isenberg.
Mendy and his friend and Mitzvah Tank driver, Shneur Munitz stood outside UB’s Center of the Arts to greet people with doughnuts, latkes and The Weed children were all smiles when the Chanukah music after the Federation’s Annual “Tank” drove by their house. Pictured here are The Isenberg children loved Meeting. The back of the Mitzvah Tank had a (L to R) Meir, Miriam and Mendy Greenberg visiting the “Tank”. Pictured Miriam Greenberg welcomed the Kingsley girls into the Menorah sign with actual lights. Every night an with Charlie, Emily and their mom, Robyn Weed here are Aaron and Eliot with additional “candle” was added.” in the “Mitzvah Tank”. Mitzvah Tank. Pictured here with their mom, holding their their mom, Jennifer. Chanukah booklets.
38 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 AGENCIES EXHIBIT OF GRAPHIC DESIGN BY JUSTIN MICHAEL BLUE At the Bunis Family Art Gallery Through February 29
Photos by Justin Michael Blue
sincere creative expressions. A Change of Heart, an exhibit of graphic design Living in Niagara Falls, NY, by Justin Michael Blue, will take place at the Bunis this Buffalo born artist remains Family Art Gallery in the Jewish Community Center dedicated to cultivating a through February 29, 2016. stable and healthy lifestyle “I wake up every day with a passion to inspire, to be from which he can most inspired, and to create a life that can truly be lived to authentically be available to the fullest. The healing medium of graphic and sonic serve the greatest good. No design has provided me the opportunity to love all of matter the form, shape or the elements of my life more fully. Every aspect of my tone, whatever comes about work serves to encourage others to reflect upon their in the light of his creativity capacity for greatness,” says Blue. unfolds in support of a deeper Whether considered visionary, mystical or awareness. He invites his meditative, the sights, sounds and stories that Blue audience to sincerely consider delivers prove to be an inspiration to his audience. the implications, proposing Captivating viewers’ imagination with his keen eye that this is truly a time to put for detail and the ethereal nature of his subject our most inspired, grounded matter illustrates a message of unconditional love and heart centered actions and kindness, suggesting an unreserved compassion into play. and forgiveness for all beings and, “most importantly Gallery admission is free ourselves,” says Blue. and the gallery is open during A Crohn’s disease diagnosis at age 15 was the main JCC operating hours, 7 days a catalyst or “blessing in disguise” as Blue likes to refer to week. For more information it, which motivated his life in the direction of holistic visit www.jccbuffalo.org. To therapies and alternative approaches. For Blue, life has arrange for a tour with the become a profound dance of balance and harmony, artist, contact the director of a dance that he chooses to portray through his most cultural arts at 716-204-2255.
February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 39 AGENCIES
information on his legal awards and a childhood photograph, the remainder Remembering the Holocaust focuses on a specific period of time in the fabric of Buffalo’s community, a By Dr. Chana Kotzin legacy, which anyone visiting the Jewish Community Center can regularly view, Sometimes a personal archival collection internalizing the larger lessons of a dark takes you into a different place than you era of international history. An active might expect. Instead of focusing on a life’s committee of community volunteers, as work, it highlights an enduring interest or a well as agency staff members, led by passion, a determination, or a specific goal. Morris Mesch and Rubin Literman, saw This is the case with the papers of Morris to fruition the creation and installation Mesch who was born in 1925 in Buffalo, of the Holocaust Memorial Sculpture NY and practiced as an attorney for all of by artist Tony Rosenthal (1914-2009). his professional life, which spanned over Commissioned by the Jewish Community forty years. Center of Greater Buffalo, the memorial Morris graduated from Grover was dedicated during the Yom HaShoah Cleveland High School and served in the Community Commemoration on April Unites States Armed Services from 1943 17, 1977. The sculpture consists of five through 1946 as a pilot. After the war he double-sided panels revolving on a completed his studies at the University of single post, cast with maps, place names Buffalo Law School and then served as an and quotes in Hebrew and English, attorney for the Legal Aid Society from reminding us of the events of the 1950 to 1957. He entered private practice Holocaust. Morris Mesch’s scrapbooks in 1958 and from 1982 to 1985 he was an Standing in front of Holocaust Memorial Sculpture, Morris Mesch in the center, Rubin Literman, detail how the memorial monument attorney for Legal Services for the Elderly on the right, 1977. Photo credit: Mickey Osterreicher was brought to realization through his then attorney for the Erie County Social active on a number of community boards Beth El. He also served as President of inclusion of meeting minutes, program Services Department from 1985 until including the Jewish Community Center, B’nai Brith in Buffalo. fliers, notes, press releases, photographs 1995, when he retired. Morris Mesch was Jewish Federation of Buffalo and Temple While Morris Mesch’s papers include and a range of other ephemera. Some of the photographs within the scrapbook have been made available online through our digital portal: http://nyheritage. org/collections/jewish-buffalo-image- collection. To see the guide for this collection, check the Bureau of Jewish Education website under the Jewish Buffalo Archives tab www.bjebuffalo.org. For more information you can also email Chana Revell Kotzin, at archivesproject@ bjebuffalo.org or call 716-204-5388.
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JBIC386: Holocaust Memorial Sculpture with 5462 SHERIDAN DRIVE | WILLIAMSVILLE | 716.831.8018 | WWW.ALTMANDENTAL.COM Concentration Camp Names, 1977 Photo credit: Mickey Osterreicher 40 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 41 JEWS IN THE NEWS
Chess on Christmas Eve? From Ohr Temimim School
On the eve of December 24th, a “Fathers, Sons and Guys Chess Night” was held at Ohr Temimim/Jewish Heritage Day school. It has been a tradition since before the 1700’s that Jews have gotten together and played chess on this night. “It was time this tradition came to Buffalo and we hope it will turn into an annual event” said Alex Kleyman a participant that evening. “We couldn’t believe the overwhelming turnout as over eighty people streamed in, chess sets in hand” said Brocha Leah Greenberg, an organizer of the event. Children as young as 6 years old to senior citizens participated. “The guests were invited through Facebook and word of mouth, so it was hard to know what the response would be. We ordered cases of kosher baked goods from Brooklyn thinking we would have plenty of leftovers, but all of the snacks and beverages we brought were wiped out!” mentioned a pleased Sariti Kaganoff, a mother who volunteered her time that evening. Kids and adults played each other and were matched up according to skill level. “Some of the Ohr Temimim students are quite accomplished chess players so it was interesting to see some of the confident adults getting a run for their money- so to speak” remarked Pinny Young, a father who participated. “We had several highly skilled players join from the Former Soviet Union and from Israel, whom the boys were vying to play to gain some new strategies and insights.” Quite a few fathers and sons from Kadimah Academy joined in the fun, as well as people from every sector of the community. “One of the most exciting things was to see so many Russian Jews come out and participate. There were people attending we had never met before, but this event spoke to them so they came,” remarked Sonia Young, who helped to co-ordinate the evening. Each child who participated received a prize, and there was a grand raffle at the end of the evening for a computer chess game. “It was a fun Jewish social event which brought people of all ages and from all stratospheres of the community together. It was very special,” said Jonathan Schechter, who was one of the fathers who played chess with his son.
40 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 41 JEWS IN THE NEWS Buffalo Hillel’s Birthright Israel Trip
Hillel Director Dan Metchnik getting ready for The Buffalo group in Tzfat in the rain Sunshine at the Sea of Galilee Birthright Israel 16 Buffalo Hillel’s Birthright Israel Trip
The entire Buffalo group on the shores of the Dead Sea On the road at the Sea of Galilee Buffalo Hillel’s Birthright Israel Trip
Atop Mount Arbel Birthright sign seen in Israel Dan Metchnik in the foreground with the Buffalo group in the background at Ein Ovdat Mt. Arbel with Jake Paster, Dan Metchnik and Paz Ilovich Meshuganotes at Shir Shalom Tu B’Shevat
Cantor Sharon Colbert and Rabbi Alex Lazarus-Klein . A solo from one of the Meshugganotes The Meshugganotes singing in perfect harmony JCC After-school program students sharing Tu B’ Shevat with introduce the a cappella group performers Shlichah Lital Liberty 42 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 43 JEWS IN THE NEWS PJ Library Celebrates Tu B’Shevat Buffalo-style at Tifft Nature Preserve
PJ Library families played in the snow to celebrate Tu B’Shevat and Martin Luther King, Jr’s birthday. Miriam Abramovich led an action-packed Tu B’Shevat story time, the Tifft Educator led us on a snowshoeing experience and then renowned artist/author Wende Essrow read us her book and did a watercolor nature activity with us. Mandy Weiss organized the program, and everyone had a really fun time!
42 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 February 2016 | www.jfedbflo.com 43 new industry and investment. Israel (NOT) THE LAST WORD recently created a program which provides a 1 to 1 R&D tax credit to encourage companies to come to Israel. MY MISSION TO ISRAEL In Buffalo, we are seeing a very similar situation and similar BY New York State Assembly Member Sean Ryan investment. The Buffalo Billion program is investing in research and solar power manufacturing. I recently had an amazing opportunity to travel to Israel with a delegation Buffalo is becoming a destination from the New York State Assembly and the New York Jewish Community for millennials, and new jobs and Relations Council. This was my first trip to Israel, and I wanted to share my industry are coming on line every day. experiences from this incredible journey. I also learned that Israel shares one unfortunate similarity with Buffalo, As I boarded the plane, I was excited to and future of Israel and its people. and that is the issue of poverty. While be embarking on this journey to a place To discover Israel’s past, we visited Sean Ryan at the Western Wall both Israel and Buffalo are seeing that I have always found remarkable. many historic sites throughout the economic growth and a brighter future Our delegation wanted to make this trip country. We sailed on the Sea of Galilee, powerful than our visit to Yad Vashem, on the surface, the issue of poverty to have a better understanding of the and swam in the Dead Sea. We visited Israel’s Holocaust History Museum. The continues to cloud the future for both Israeli government and people, to visit the Western Wall, and marked the museum experience is haunting, insightful, places. Over 22 percent of Israelis important religious sites, and to learn occasion with reflective prayer. It was and emotional. The museum does an are living in poverty. In Buffalo, the more about our great ally in the Middle an amazing feeling to lay my hands extraordinary job of telling the story of number is over 30 percent. Buffalo East. upon this historic religious site. We also this horrific chapter in human history. We and Israel are both struggling with Our delegation was led by our new visited many other religious sites in can never forget what happened, and this income inequality and high rates of Speaker, Carl Heastie, and represented the old city of Jerusalem. I hiked up was truly an experience I will never forget. extreme poverty. It is clear to me a diverse cross-section of our state. the snake trail on Masada, and what an Our delegation had the opportunity to that Buffalo must address our extreme From Buffalo, to Utica, to the Bronx, our incredible sight it was. To put it simply, learn about present-day Israel by visiting poverty problem, and after visiting Assembly delegation brought together we were awed by the incredible sights we a kibbutz near Gaza. We saw firsthand Israel, I see that the challenge must legislators from all corners of New York took in throughout our trip. the impact of recent rocket attacks and be met there as well. Fortunately, I to learn more about the past, present, No moment during our trip was more met with Israeli government officials. We think Buffalo and Israel are taking had the very special opportunity to have very positive steps towards addressing dinner at the home of an Israeli family the pervasive issue of poverty. Rent assisted apartments for seniors & mobility-impaired adults in Jerusalem. Actually sitting down for a I will never forget the amazing meal with a family helped us to be better journey I took to Israel last month. I informed about everyday life in Israel. We learned a great deal, and brought back Jewish learned about culture and tradition. We with me a clearer and more profound Exciting discussed both Israeli and U.S. politics. understanding of this incredible Federation Renovations We also discussed the threats of violence country. I hope to make the visit again coming early 2016! that the Israeli people face and how that someday. Apartments impacts daily life. Hon. Sean Ryan is the NYS We ventured to the Golan Heights Assembly Member for the 149th and met with UN peacekeepers. We had Assembly District, which covers part Watch your favorite shows with your a very informative discussion regarding of Buffalo. You can reach him at new friends on our big screen TV! the Syrian refugee situation that makes [email protected]. A brief wait for you to join our family headlines across the globe. As we looked out from Mount Bental toward the Syrian WiFi available border, the peacekeepers noted that they Brand new laundry facilities • Full-time social worker were unable to enter Syria due to the Beauty shop • Activities • Transportation deteriorating situation. 24-hour emergency maintenance • Two elevators As for Israel’s future, we visited the Library • Computer room • Emergency medical call system Israeli stock exchange in Tel Aviv and Chapel and various religious services met with representatives of 5 startup Pool table • Card room • Community room companies, where we gained valuable Open to all religious denominations insight into Israel’s economy. Israel is often referred to as a “Start-up Nation”, Jewish Federation Apartments and the economy is one that is being built 275 Essjay Road for the future. I couldn’t help but notice Williamsville, NY 14221 the similarities between Israel’s economy, and what is currently happening in Buffalo. For application information please call Israel is building a more nimble, global 716-631-8471 • www.JewishFederationApartments.org economy. Israel has opened itself up to *Jewish Federation Apartments does not discriminate on the basis of handicapped status in the the world, and exports are now a major Assembly Member Ryan with IDF trroops on admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its federally assisted program and activities. driver of GDP growth. Israel is bringing in the Golon/Syria border 44 www.jfedbflo.com | February 2016 Looking MARKET PLACE for a To advertise call an Account Executive today! ? 972-2250 Are you looking for companionship & romance in the WNY area? “WNY’s Best Eco-Friendly Why not place an ad Cleaning Service” in our Shidduch column! 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