New Rochelle Rallies for Justice, for Peace

WESTCHESTER June 2020 -- Sivan-Tammuz 5780, Volume 26, Issue 6

1994-2019

JewishWESTCHESTER COUNTY’S ONLY MONTHLY JEWISHLife NEWSPAPER New Rochelle Rallies For Justice, For Peace

BY STEPHEN E. LIPKEN Schuck, Beth El Synagogue Center and Scott Weiner, Temple Israel New Ro- Approximately 40 citizens, elect- chelle. ed officials and clergy gathered on the “Why are we still talking about front steps of New Rochelle City Hall, eradicating racism in 2020,” Sears asked. on Sunday, May 31st, rallying in mem- “G-d created humanity in His own image ory of George Floyd, 46 who died on and G-d blessed us.” Monday, May 25th in Minneapolis, MN “This afternoon we are united, as a result of a police restraining hold black, white and brown,” Bramson con- to his neck. Floyd was detained for al- tinued. “We are united in grieving for legedly trying to pass a counterfeit $20 the family of George Floyd and united in bill and restrained for allegedly resist- our determination to seek justice... We ing arrest. are united in advocating for peace, here All participants were masked, in our own City...” except for brief times that they spoke “I stand here with a heavy heart on the podium. Mayor Noam Bramson and troubled spirit,” New Rochelle welcomed the City Council; County Ex- Branch NAACP President Minister Mark ecutive George Latimer; Congressman McLean, stressed. “We are sick and tired Eliot Engel; NYS Senator Andrea Stew- of being sick and tired. art-Cousins; Legislators Terry Clem- Martin Luther King once said, ‘The ents, Damon Maher, Catherine Parker; ultimate measure of a man is not where Assemblyman Steve Otis; Kathie David- he stands in moments of comfort and son, Administrative Judge, 9th District; convenience but where he stands in School Board President Amy Moselhi times of challenge and controversy.’” and members; Library President Diedre “I am a son of the Jim Crow South, woman Yadira Ramos-Herbert and Kyla New Rochelle, Clergy stated: protesters. The harm that these riots Clark, board members and City Man- where segregation was practiced against Golding, 18, Reverend Robert Gahler, As faith leaders, we affirm every have caused to innocent people cannot ager Charles B. Strome III, introducing our race,” Pastor Allen Paul Weaver, Jr. Trinity St. Paul’s Episcopal Church gave American’s right to peacefully protest be tolerated. We pray for peace, equal- Reverend Denise Smartt Sears, who observed. “I stand here today, proud to the Benediction. and we simultaneously condemn all acts ity, and a day when our country will rendered the Invocation. be an African-American.” The Beth El Synagogue Center, of violence committed by and against stand united against injustice. Two Rabbis were present, David After brief remarks from Council- County Executive George Latimer Commits to Take Action On June 1, County Executive George Latimer commented, “In Westches- ter County, in our home, we are committed as a county government to take action that is within our authority and within our jurisdiction. I am empanel- ing today a working group comprised of County and local police profession- als, individuals who serve in our Human Rights Commission, on our police board, members of the African-American clergy, justice activists, to review in detail all of the procedures and policies that are used by the County at our County Police Academy to train new police recruits and to provide in-service training for those that are already working in law enforcement, and to establish changes and reforms that are needed to make sure that every police officer, new or old, understands how we avoid and place implicit racism or any bias behavior in the conduct of their duties. “Across Westchester on Sunday, May 31, in New Rochelle, in Hastings, in Peekskill, in Ardsley, men and women marched and rallied and met to protest to call for new policies. They met in peace. Within the bounds of civil discourse in a free democracy. They conducted themselves with honor. And the police who worked alongside of them did so as well with honor. I’m proud of that Westchester.” Visit www.westchesterjewishlife.com for updates. In Solidarity Against Racism The RCA Condemns the Murder of On June 2, The Anti Def- tration, one thing is certain: amation League {ADL} issued silence is not an option. ADL George Floyd the following statement: calls for all of the former po- The Rabbinical Coun- law enforcement not only to “We are outraged by the lice officers involved in the cil of America, the leading preserve the law, but also to events of recent weeks and murder of George Floyd to membership organization restore justice, fairness and are devastated by the tragic be held responsible for their of Orthodox rabbis in North a sense of compassion to loss of life. Today, we stand actions, and we call upon America, condemns the all. Inciteful language must in solidarity with Black and the Hennepin County Attor- senseless murder of George cease, and efforts must be Brown communities in New ney’s office to act immedi- Floyd. “He, like every human expended which will edu- York and New Jersey and ately, without further delay, being, was created in the im- cate our society away from across the country, and join to bring the perpetrators to age of Almighty, and the loss racism and towards a better the call for immediate ac- justice. of his life is a tragedy.” understanding each for the countability, justice, and ac- “ADL NY/NJ will con- “Furthermore, we stand other.” tion to dismantle systemic tinue to organize, protest and together with all who fight “We stand resolute in racism in America. advocate for justice and fair racism, bigotry and hatred. our belief that the good- “Racism is foundational Jonathan Greenblatt treatment for all, because this We believe that the equal ness of human nature will to our country’s history. It work is not optional. You can rights and opportunities prevail, but we call upon ev- ly and we see its taint today in taints the country’s applica- act by taking a stand in your guaranteed by our laws are, eryone to end the violence,” the very institutions we turn Rabbi Daniel Korobkin tion of its laws, values and own community and support- as the founders of this great added Rabbi Binyamin Blau, to for justice and safety: our ideals of justice. It is used to ing organizations engaged in land proclaimed, “inalien- first vice president of the decide who will be heard, who courts, police, and govern- this effort. able rights” which derive effecting positive change is RCA. “While the hurt and will be free and who will be ment institutions at every Collectively, we must from our Sacred Scripture. through peaceful demon- the anger felt and expressed deserving – of justice, educa- level. imagine a country that is bet- As a faithful Jewish commu- stration, not through de- today must not be ignored, tion, health care, mercy, and “While we struggle to ter, believe it is attainable, nity, we stand together with stroying property, looting the solution to our national most tragically, life itself. We find the words to express and work together to create all who defend the rights and harming others.” pain will only come through have seen its taint historical- our sadness, anger and frus- it.’’ of others, especially the “Our rabbis taught that peaceful demonstration, de- “widow, the orphan and the society subsists on the three liberate conversation, and stranger.” basic values: law, truth, and effective action. As Dr. King Shoreline Publishing “We also condemn the peace,” said Rabbi Daniel said, ‘Every man must de- lawlessness of the few who Korobkin, the president cide whether he will walk Westchester’s Community Newspapers defile the memory of George of the Rabbinical Council in the light of creative altru- Floyd and others, by riot- of America. “We call upon ism or in the darkness of de- ing and looting. The key to those in government and structive selfishness.’” ADVERTISING Conference of Presidents Denounces STIMULUS Racism: Calls for Engagement and Dialogue PROGRAM to Move Forward

On June 3rd, 2020, Ar- measures that can and must be thur Stark, Chairman, Wil- implemented to help prevent a re- liam Daroff, CEO, and Malcolm occurrence of this terrible event. Hoenlein, Vice Chair of the “The First Amendment Conference of Presidents of right to peacefully protest, an Major American Jewish Orga- American birthright, must be nizations, issued the following protected. At the same time, we statement: condemn acts of violence and “We join our fellow Amer- vandalism, and urge respect icans nationwide in mourning for the law and those charged the appalling and detestable to enforce it with justice, most killing of George Floyd. We are of whom are people of good outraged and call for the po- faith endeavoring to serve and lice officers responsible to be protect our communities. The held accountable and brought violence and looting hurt many to justice. This tragedy is one families and individuals while 3 ads for the price of 2* that has occurred all too often. undermining the sense of se- “American Jews histori- William Daroff curity and trust essential to the cally have been and will con- effective functioning of our so- Get 3 same size ads in the next tinue to be allies of the African speech. Many other prominent ciety. It must stop. American community and all Jewish leaders, along with “We pray for an end to the 3 consecutive months for the price of 2. others in the fight against rac- thousands of American Jews, scourge of racism that led to ism and injustice in the United were and are actively involved George Floyd’s death, an end Ask your Account Executive about our States. Rabbi Joachim Prinz, in the civil rights movement. to senseless bigotry, xenopho- an early Chairman of the Con- “Given our history of fac- bia, and antisemitism, as well Advertising Stimulus Program or ference of Presidents, stood ing oppression and Jew hatred, as an end to civil unrest, and a Call 914-738-7869 and we will give you the details. with Dr. Martin Luther King, which continues to this day, we return to mutual engagement, Jr. at the March on Washing- empathize deeply with the suffer- constructive dialogue, and ton in 1963 and was the last ing of others and the indignance building coalitions. We stand speaker before Dr. King gave of prejudice and bigotry. We ready, as a community, to help * Offer for new customers. his famous ‘I Have A Dream’ believe that there are remedial move our country forward.” Westchester Jewish Life • June 2020 • Sivan-Tammuz 5780 • Page 2 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com The Orthodox Union Makes Statement on A New Jewish American Heritage Initiative The Conference of Presi- country, and promoting phi- Reopening Synagogues dents of Major American Jew- lo-Semitism throughout our On May 21, The Orthodox guideline because a downward schedule for reopening. The rab- ish Organizations and the Jew- great land,” said Elan S. Carr, Union stated that they are cer- trajectory of illness during the binic and medical leadership of ish American Heritage Month U.S. Special Envoy to Monitor tainly encouraged that downward lock down period itself does not shuls and communities should Partnership, with the Office and Combat Anti-Semitism. trends in disease have moved reflect what may occur upon determine local policy in consul- of the United States Special Special Envoy Carr added many states towards re-opening. reopening. Reopening a com- tation and coordination with local Envoy to Monitor and Combat that JAHI will also serve as a “Nevertheless, we reiterate that munity is an experiment to de- public health officials, meeting Anti-Semitism and the Na- template for the celebration based on our Halachic value of the termine whether the downward and exceeding their standards. tional Museum of American in foreign countries of the con- concern for life (Pikuach Nefesh), trajectory will continue even “This statement was writ- Jewish History, announce the tributions and history of their a government’s allowance of Min- after people begin to circulate ten with the guidance of our Pos- launch of the Jewish American Jewish communities. yanim – for which we are grateful significantly. The opinion of our kim, Harav Hershel Schachter Heritage Initiative (JAHI). In a statement, Rep. Deb- (and Harav Mordechai Wil- JAHI will maximize the bie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL א”טילש does not mean that such Minya- Poskim is that Pikuach Nefesh – It has been reviewed impact of Jewish American said, “As the original House .א”טילש nim should occur. concerns dictate that the return lig Elan S. Carr “Before resuming commu- to communal Davening wait and supported by Harav Dovid Heritage Month by develop- sponsor of the legislation that and Harav Asher ing digital and print curricula, created Jewish American א”טילש nal Davening, the OU/RCA guid- until after the experiment of Cohen materials, and creative content them throughout the United Heritage Month (JAHM), I am .א”טילש ance required both a clear flat- reopening has been conducted Weiss tening of the curve and a verified successfully for two weeks, with- “The situation continues to aimed at educating Americans States and via on-line media confident this critical initia- safe period of 14 days following out a rise in disease. evolve and thus these recommen- about the Jewish people and in time for use during Jewish tive will fulfill the vision that communal reopening to assess “This caution should of dations and guidelines are based its history, about Judaism’s val- American Heritage Month in the late Senator Arlen Spec- whether there will be a signifi- course be exercised not only re- solely on currently available in- ues and traditions, and about May 2021. ter and I had for JAHM — to cant surge of new cases as other garding Minyanim, but for other formation and advice. the profound ways in which “Especially during a time educate all Americans of every parts of society are released from new government allowances as “We share our community’s Judaism and Jewish Ameri- of rising anti-Semitism both background on the deeply im- mitigation. well. All activities must be ap- deep desire to return to commu- cans have contributed to build- here at home and abroad, it portant contributions of the “This guidance remains in proached with appropriate cau- nal Davening and to shul life. It ing and enhancing the United is all the more important that Jewish people in all aspects place. We continue to advise de- tion. is our sincere hope and prayer States of America, from our Jewish American Heritage of our great country, through- laying 14 days prior to the opening “We restate that due to the that our decisions maximize both country’s founding to the pres- Month become a vehicle for out American history. I thank of any Minyanim. variety of experience and data communal safety and our service ent day. JAHI will produce and celebrating the Jewish people, the Jewish American Heritage curate these materials over the treasuring the values of Ju- Month Partnership and the הניכש הרשתש ןוצר יהי ,Our Poskim and our between communities, there can of Hashem“ next 11 months and distribute daism that helped shape our continued on page 4 “ .ונילע וניקלא ’ד םעונ יהיו ונידי השעמב medical advisors imposed this be no “one size fits all” national

Westchester Jewish Life • June 2020 • Sivan-Tammuz 5780 • Page 3 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Connecting Students with Remote Skill Announcing AJC Virtual Global Forum 2020 Based Internship Opportunities BY DAVID HARRIS, CEO AJC I am delighted to an- BY H. POLLACK sion. nounce that, for the first time Interns4Good is com- in AJC history, we will be hold- During these unprec- mitted to empower students ing a Virtual Global Forum, edented times, eager high and teachers, especially which will take place during school student volunteers now during Covid 19. The the same week we were sched- are ready to help non profit organization is always look- uled to be together in Berlin – organizations by provid- ing to sign up more teens so June 14-18, 2020! ing technical support and they can gain real life expe- This five-day online event other skilled based servic- riences while building their will feature a moving open- es. Some even are available teaching and communica- ing plenary, conversations for homework help and to tion skills and bolstering with world leaders, spirited teach classes via Zoom. their resume. debates, and the high-level These teens are part of Zimmerman also gives content you have come to ex- Interns4Good.org, a 501 c-3 her time and manages In- pect at an AJC Global Forum. non profit, led by CEO and stagram and Facebook ac- Together, we will discuss the founder, Ellie Zimmerman counts for several non prof- Dr. Mohammad bin Abdulkarim Al-lssa most important issues fac- Benjamin Gantz of Purchase. Going into her its. She is slated to have a ing the Jewish people and the senior year at Rye Country Ellie Zimmerman Fellowship this summer world, including the rise of all, the full Virtual Global Fo- date when registration opens Day School, she spends at with Volunteer NY through antisemitism and other forms rum program will be available for the various sessions. least 5 hours a day on this communities. That's what Rye Country Day School. of hate in the era of the coro- from the comfort of your home I also invite you to follow endeavor, reaching out to makes the leadership team "Our volunteers are navirus, the 2020 U.S. presi- and free of charge. While we AJC on Facebook and Twitter, her 18 member leadership so cool," she explains. ready, willing, and able to dential election, Israel’s quest hope you will join us for the en- where we’ll be announcing team. "I have weekly meet- help non profits, " she men- for peace and security, and the tire program, you may sign up speakers and sessions as they Zimmerman envi- ings with the leadership tions. " We receive around future of the transatlantic re- for as many programs as you become public, and to use the sioned the idea for Intern- team. They are all so hard 30-40 new intern applica- lationship. are able to attend virtually. official Virtual Global Forum s4Good, 18 months ago, working and help me. tions a day. Interns 4-Good In the spirit of the times, Visit the AJC Virtual hashtag, #AJCVirtualGloFo, while she was hiking on a Through our site, we have is also planning on offering and in order to make this one- Global Forum 2020 webpage to share the experience on- school trip. She reached signed up about one thou- a virtual summer camp that of-a-kind event accessible to and sign up to receive an up- line. out to everyone she knew sand students. Some tutor can add structure to lower to find participants for students in K-12 grades and and middle schoolers’ days. the program. Then, last others are working for non The 'camp' would enrich the summer she received a profits as volunteers in in- students learning through A New Jewish American Heritage Initiative continued from page 3 grant from Google, applied ternship programs. In addi- our interactive lesson plans for non profit status and tion, there are other volun- while also keeping the stu- Conference of Presidents for pending on the dates of certain Americans have contributed searched for companies teers that help parents with dents entertained and ac- its unified support of this in- Jewish holidays, to be Jewish in countless ways to our coun- that would need teens for technology," she says. tive in physical activities. valuable project.” Heritage Week. try’s culture and character. . . . online internships. "We created Intern- "I get a lot of satisfac- Rep. Lee Zeldin (R-NY) In 2006, Congress autho- [and] strengthen, sustain, and Millie Jasper "When our program s4Good to connect high tion from seeing the impact said, “We have witnessed the rized annual presidential proc- inspire our country through was created, I got a bunch school students with vir- my organization has on alarming rise of anti-Semi- lamations of Jewish American dedication to family, respect of internships lined up and tual, skill based intern- people's lives," Zimmerman tism at home and around the Heritage Month for each May. for cherished traditions, and wanted to assure the cred- ship opportunities at non concludes. "Helping non world, and this critical initia- In the first such proclamation, commitment to the values of ibility. I rely on my leader- profit organizations that profits means so much to tive is vital in combatting this President George W. Bush de- justice and equality that unite ship team, kids from all allow them to develop their me." hatred wherever it rears its clared that, “Through their Americans of every faith and over the country. There's professional skills while To learn more, visit In- ugly head. Educating Ameri- deep commitment to faith, background.” no overlap in territory and also giving back to worthy terns4Good.org they reach out to their own causes," states their mis- cans of all backgrounds on the family, and community, Jewish JAHI will build on the vast contributions of Jewish Americans remind us of a basic existing Jewish American Americans will enable Jewish belief that guided the founding Heritage Month framework, American Heritage Month to of this Nation: that there is an including the recent successes be a vehicle of change in the Almighty who watches over of “JAHM 2020”, with its first hearts and minds of Ameri- the affairs of men and values national digital marketing cans and a unifying force every life.” campaign and more than 50 of- across our great nation. I President Barack Obama, ficial partners from across the thank Special Envoy Carr, the in the first of these proclama- country. Jewish American Heritage tions during his administra- The Conference of Presi- Month Partnership, and the tion, said, “Jewish Americans dents of Major American Jew- Conference of Presidents for across the United States prac- ish Organizations is the rec- their commitment to making tice the faith and celebrate ognized central coordinating this mission a reality.” the culture of their ancestors. body representing 53 diverse For the last 40 years, of- Across the Nation every day, national Jewish organizations ficial celebrations of Jewish individuals emulate their fore- on issues of national and inter- heritage have been proclaimed bears by seeking to perform national concern. by presidents of the United mitzvot, the hundreds of com- The Jewish American State from both political par- mandments set forth in the Heritage Month (JAHM) Part- ties pursuant to Congressio- Torah. . . . Jewish Americans nership activates JAHM each nal resolutions that enjoyed have immeasurably enriched year, convening more than 50 overwhelming bipartisan our Nation.” organizations across the coun- support. Between 1980 and In his proclamation for try to promote awareness and 2005, Congress authorized, Jewish Americans Heritage education. The Partnership is and presidents proclaimed, a Month in May, President Don- led by the National Museum of single week in April or May, de- ald J. Trump declared, “Jewish American Jewish History. Westchester Jewish Life • June 2020 • Sivan-Tammuz 5780 • Page 4 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com County Executive Gives Briefing On Westchester The Hero in Me: Profiles of Heroes, County Reopening Task Force Contemporary, Historical and Biblical On June 1, Westchester are working ahead of the curve in County Executive George Latimer getting ready everything they will Story-based charac- and immerse our target au- announced the formation of the need to do to open. We can do this ter development and build- diences online and off-line. Westchester County Reopen- safely. There are safe ways of run- ing resilience in children The Hero in Me offers inno- ing Task Force – a group charged ning our businesses and once we get is the focus of a new print vative ideas via both plat- with working to find solutions the go ahead, we can safely reopen and online series of book- forms.” to advance the interests of local and serve our customers.” lets inspired by a ground- Written by Emma businesses in a post-coronavirus Westchester County Board of breaking exhibition at the Carlson Berne, The Hero in economy. Legislators Chairman Ben Boykin Tel Aviv-based Museum of Me, consists of a set of five “What we have here is a said, “This is an important chal- the Jewish People at Beit booklets for students and a group of individuals who have lenge. We are in a place we have nev- Hatfutsot and published by guide for teachers parents served in a variety of capacities, to er been before and we must reopen Behrman House. The Hero and grandparents that focus serve in this particular capacity, to in a more vibrant and smarter way in Me, set to be released on the character traits of help organize our efforts to reach so businesses can survive, grow and May 29, tells the stories of courage, creativity, curios- out to the businesses of Westches- move to the next level.” such well-known figures ity, fairness and kindness. ter County and do everything we County Executive George Latimer The task force will play a sig- as U.S. Supreme Court Jus- Geared towards Jewish chil- can to help them reopen as fast nificant role in communicating out tice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, dren in grades 4-5, students as possible and as successfully as with businesses in Westchester to the business and nonprofit com- legendary Hollywood film- connect with their heritage possible,” Latimer said. County. Both bring deep ex- munities, their colleagues and the maker Steven Spielberg, on a deeper level by study- This task force will provide pertise and broad connections organizations that they lead about prominent human and Jewish how our young readers can ing Jewish heroes from bib- guidance to the County as it works which will enable the task force guidelines and best practices as our rights activist Natan Sharan- build those qualities into their lical to modern times, from through the four phases of reopen- to maximize its impact. region enters each stage of phased sky, biblical figures King David own lives.” young to old, and famous to ing and help ensure that business- Parker noted, “I see this reopening. The task force will also and the prophet Isaiah, and “As a global cultural and lesser known, who embody es in each phase have what they reopening task force as a unified establish working groups that will 16th century philanthropist educational institution, Beit these traits. The students are need to reopen safely and success- voice for all different sectors of focus on each critical area such as Dona Gracia Nasi, to help read- Hatfutsot is constantly explor- then asked to consider how fully. business in Westchester County health care, labor, hospitality, gen- ers explore the essence of a ing new ways to reach world they too, can incorporate these The task force is co-chaired with the ‘rock stars’ of those eral business, etc. These working hero. Jewry and people of all back- qualities into their daily lives. by Westchester County Legislator sectors. This will be a way to get groups will allow for all Westchester “Storytelling is perhaps grounds,” said Itamar Kremer, Each booklet focuses on a Catherine Parker, a former small Westchester back to where we business owners to have an oppor- the most effective way to con- Director of the Koret Inter- character trait, with biograph- business owner and past Presi- were – and even better than be- tunity to give input. vey meaning to children,” said national School for Jewish ical sketches of two Jewish he- dent, Rye Chamber of Commerce, fore.” http://www.westchestergov. David Behrman, President of Peoplehood at the Museum of roes (one historical, the other and Louis Lanza, a restaurateur Lanza added, “Restaurants com Behrman House. “These book- the Jewish People. “We have a modern) whose lives exem- lets provide bite-size insights constant goal to creatively ex- plify that attribute and whose A Business Designed to Help Others into what makes a hero, and pand our content, and engage continued on page 6 As the Hudson Valley be- MSKCC for cancer research. gins to look forward to normal- Over the past year, I have been izing life again while in the working towards transition- midst of the Pandemic, Taylor ing this project into an ongo- Graustein, an alumna of Harri- ing business that can make a son High School and a current real impact to benefit cancer graduate of Wake Forest Univer- research. This year, I was ac- sity, has created a business that cepted into the Startup Lab started with a desire to help oth- at Wake Forest University’s ers impacted with cancer. Center for Entrepreneurship, "I know from personal and began work on launching experience that my story reso- the idea into a candle com- nates with the residents of pany, now named Benefiscent. Harrison, because many of The inspiration for the name them have shared their stories comes from the definition, 're- with me over the past 5 years. sulting in good.'" She proudly In 2015, when I was a junior at continues, " I also received the Taylor Graustein Harrison High School, I em- honor of being named Senior barked on a journey to raise around Westchester. Before of the Year in Startup lab for money for cancer research I graduated high school, I re- my efforts in launching Bene- by making candles. I was in- ceived a mayoral commenda- fiscent Candles." spired to do so, because at age tion from Mayor Belmont of Graustein mentions that 13, I lost my mom Carmela, to Harrison for my efforts called her Dad is involved, too. "Har- brain cancer, after watching Candles for a Cure. In addition, rison is where I was raised and her battle the disease for 7 very I delivered the keynote speech where it all began. While Co- difficult years. to a large gathering of support- vid-19 is certainly capturing all "I started a project in ers at the Harrison Relay for the headlines recently, the bat- her honor, hoping that I could Life event and handed a check tle against cancer continues." make a difference in the lives to my mom’s doctors at Memo- Twenty percent of each of others and help other people rial Sloan Kettering Cancer candle sold by Graustein goes and families who were suffer- Center {MSKCC}for research, to MSKCC. For more informa- ing as a result of cancer. I be- " she explains. tion about candles at Bene- gan making candles by hand "I managed my candle fiscent, visit benefiscent.com in my home kitchen and selling making project at Wake Forest or social media (instagram: them at Harrison High School over the ensuing years, and to @benefiscent_candles, face- events and other local venues date, have donated $22,000 to book: @benefiscentcandle) Westchester Jewish Life • June 2020 • Sivan-Tammuz 5780 • Page 5 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Bruce Museum Announces New Art Competition for Young Students The Bruce Museum this unprecedented health work can be submitted elec- K-4 and grades 5-8, respec- in Greenwich, Ct., has an- crisis. tronically as one (1) image tively: First Prize - $75/$150 nounced a new art competi- “We’ve seen the impact per two-dimensional work Visa gift card plus annual tion that will highlight the the Museum’s popular an- or two (2) images for three- family membership to the talents and concerns of the nual iCreate exhibition of dimensional pieces via Bruce Museum valued at coming generation of young high school artists has had email to jrartcomp@bruce- $65; Second Prize - $50/$100 artists. throughout the commu- museum.org. Information gift card plus annual family The Bruce Museum nity,” says Robert Wolter- required for the submission membership; Third Prize Junior Art Competition storff, The Susan E. Lynch includes: artist's name, age, - $25/$75 gift card plus an- 2020: Seeing and Feeling Executive Director. “This is current grade at school, ti- nual family membership. During the Pandemic has a wonderful opportunity for tle of work, and medium of There will also be a Bruce been developed for children us to show how younger artwork. Parents note: submis- Museum Director's Award, in grades Kindergarten ists are using their creativ- sion of artwork constitutes with a prize of a $100 Visa through grade 8. Using the ity to express themselves. adult guardian permission gift card. prompt, "What do you see Art truly does inspire, and it to participate, as well as “These are uncharted and feel during this time of will help us all get through rights to use images for pro- territories for students, pandemic?" the art compe- these trying times.” motional or other uses by and with schools no longer tition asks kids to use their Artwork can be creat- the Bruce Museum. in session, we wanted to creativity to share their ed in any medium, with one Awards will be offered find a new way to channel unique experiences during submission per artist. Art- for two age groups, grades their creative expression,”

Mariya Sokolova

says Felicity Kostakis, who a dedicated website. For along with fellow Museum complete details and rules volunteers Lily deJongh about the Bruce Museum Downing and Cricket Lock- Junior Art Competition hart, will serve as judges for 2020: Seeing and Feeling the art competition. “As an During the Pandemic, visit art teacher, I firmly believe the “Events” page at bruce- that art has the ability to museum.org. empower and bring mean- The Bruce Museum ing to students' lives as well wishes to thank Co-Spon- as the lives of others. Let’s sors Lily deJongh Down- all #stayhomeandcreate!” ing, Felicity Kostakis, and Deadline for entries Cricket Lockhart for their is June 15, 2020. Winners generous support of the Ju- will be announced on June nior Art Competition 2020: 19, and their artwork will Seeing and Feeling During be exhibited virtually on the Pandemic.

The Hero in Me: Profiles of Heroes, Contemporary, Historical and Biblical continued from page 5 New Leadership Elected to The Conference of Presidents of stories are presented interac- ing of core values and resolute- tively. Highlighted as well are ness to face the challenges of profiles of heroic young people uncertain times.” Major American Jewish Organizations who embody the trait such The Museum of the Jewish Arthur Stark, Chairman, as civil rights activists James People’s exhibition Heroes and William Daroff, CEO, Dianne Charney, Andrew Goodman Trailblazers of the Jewish People Lob, Chair-Elect, and Malcolm and Michael Schwerner. encourages children and their Hoenlein, Vice Chairman of “The qualities of the role families to discover and redefine the Conference of Presidents models featured in The Hero in those qualities that make a hero. of Major American Jewish Or- Me, are most pertinent to cop- The exhibition features profiles ganizations, issued the following with the universal crisis we and accomplishments of Jewish ing statement: are in the midst of,” observed historical and contemporary fig- “At a meeting of the Con- Shulamith Bahat, CEO, Beit ures including scientists, philos- ference of Presidents of Major Hatfutsot of America. “The vir- ophers, cultural icons, inventors, American Jewish Organiza- tues personified by the Jewish athletes, designers and more. tions, Dianne Lob was elected heroes who represent differ- E-book versions will be to serve as the next chair of the ent eras, diverse backgrounds, available for Kindle and Apple. Conference by an overwhelm- experiences, genders and ages For more information or to or- ing vote of 31-8, with five ab- inspire perseverance, uphold- der go to Amazon. staining, and current Chair Arthur Stark was extended for Westchester Jewish Life • June 2020 • Sivan-Tammuz 5780 • Page 6 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com an additional year. I Wish… ...to see my husband enjoy every one of his days, up to his last, full of comfort and companionship.

We offer a spiritual care program led by a Rabbi and a Cantor, who provide comfort and companionship through conversation, and music that brings joy to our residents and their families.

For more information or schedule a tour: 914-864-5621 or visit jewishhome.org/hospice

long-term care | short-stay rehabilitation | HOSPICE

Westchester Jewish Life • June 2020 • Sivan-Tammuz 5780 • Page 7 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Mazel Tov Chabad of Bedford to Hold Ceremonial The Jewish Theological Seminary Appoints Dr. Shuly Groundbreaking for New Synagogue Rubin Schwartz as the Institution’s Eighth Chancellor Chabad of Bedford will The Jewish Theologi- break ground on the $6 mil- cal Seminary (JTS), one of the lion, 12,000-square-foot syna- world’s preeminent centers of gogue on Sunday, June 14 Jewish higher education and the at 220 South Bedford Road, intellectual and spiritual center Mount Kisco. of Conservative Judaism, has an- Remarks will be made nounced that it has selected Dr. at 4:30 p.m. by Bedford Town Shuly Rubin Schwartz to be its Supervisor Chris Burdick, eighth Chancellor. A renowned Westchester County Executive expert on Jewish American George Latimer, State Senator history with more than three Shelly Mayer, State Assem- decades of experience as a pro- blyman David Buchwald and fessor and institutional leader, Chabad of Bedford Rabbi Arik Dr. Schwartz will be the first Wolf. ceremony by reserving, in house-style, 2.5-story building woman to lead as chancellor of To honor this historic advance, a 10-minute time that will house a sanctuary, an JTS in the institution’s 134-year moment and at the same time slot. Each family will have event hall, classrooms, offices history. safeguard public health during the opportunity to break and a library. The project is Dr. Schwartz will assume this pandemic, Chabad of Bed- ground, write a letter in the estimated to be completed by her new role on July 1, 2020, as ford will limit the ceremony, new Torah scroll, and put the end of 2021. If it rains, the current JTS chancellor Arnold running from 10:00 a.m. to their stamp on an art piece groundbreaking will be held at Eisen steps down for a year-long 7:00 p.m., to 10 people or few- that will reside in the new the same location but inside an sabbatical before joining the er. The limit of 10 people aligns synagogue’s education wing. open-air outdoor tent. Follow ranks of the institution’s faculty with CDC guidance. The ground breaking will be the latest construction news @ full-time. Chabad of Bedford fami- livestreamed. building.chabadbedford.com “It is my honor and privi- Dr. Shuly Rubin Schwartz lies will take part in this The new Chabad of Bed- and on Facebook @ bedford- lege to assume the leadership socially-distanced day-long ford Center will be a farm- chabad of JTS at a moment that requires nimble action and cre- tion of social justice engagement, our provost, Professor Shuly ative solutions,” said Dr. Shuly including the yearlong intensive Rubin Schwartz, as the eighth Westchester Jewish Council Recognizes Outstanding Rubin Schwartz of The Jewish Fellowship in Jewish Social En- chancellor of JTS,” said Alan Theological Seminary. “For trepreneurship and JustCity, a Levine, Chair of the JTS Board Volunteers at 25th Annual Julian Y. Bernstein over a century, JTS has played high school summer program. of Trustees. “Dr. Schwartz’s aca- an essential role in fueling the She was among the first women demic stature is matched by her Distinguished Service Awards intellectual, religious, and com- on the faculty and was instru- administrative achievements as The Westchester Jewish munity Center of Harrison; Lynn https://www.facebook.com/ munal vitality of Jewish life— mental in the rise of gender stud- dean of List College, dean of the Council will honor twenty-two Jacobs – Jewish National Fund; wjcouncil/?ref=bookmarks through the leaders it gradu- ies at the institution. Kekst Graduate School, and as outstanding community volun- Maria Kessler – The Leffell School; The Julian Y. Bernstein ates and the ideas, resources, For the past 10 years, Dr. provost. Dr. Schwartz has played teers at the 2020 Julian Y. Ber- Michael Safranek – Pleasantville Distinguished Service Award is and values it disseminates. My Schwartz has also served as dean a major role in creating the spe- nstein Distinguished Service Community Synagogue; Esther named after Julian Y. Bernstein priority will be executing our of the Gershon Kekst Graduate cial academic community that Awards (JYBDSA) Ceremony on Mildner – Rosh Pinah Chavurah (z”l), a former Westchester Jewish academic vision in a post–Co- School, where she pioneered is JTS, and we are confident that Thursday, June 4th via Zoom. of the Rivertowns; Tim Bayless – Council board member, who was a vid-19 world, and I look forward the creation of an MA program her vision and unique skills will Donald Fleishaker is the spe- Sinai Free Synagogue; Diane Gross visionary communal leader. “This to leading JTS as it continues to in Jewish ethics, a joint Jewish ensure JTS’s continued stature cial honoree this year. He was – Temple Beth Abraham; Bob Kar- evening is an opportunity for the evolve in meeting the needs of ethics MA/MPH with Colum- as a leading ACADEMIC insti- a member of the first class of pel – Temple Shaaray Tefila; Hill- Westchester Jewish Council, the the next generation of Jewish bia’s Mailman School of Public tution of the American Jewish honorees in 1996 and remains an ary Rosenthal – Temple Sholom; connecting body for 140 Jewish or- scholars and leaders.” Health, and a new certificate pro- world.” active, vital volunteer, continu- Faith Berland – Tzahal Sholom; ganizations across Westchester, to Dr. Schwartz brings unpar- gram in ethics and social justice. “I am delighted and proud ing to share his leadership and Amy Gutenplan – UJA-Federation honor a very special group of indi- alleled qualifications to her new Throughout her ten- that Dr. Shuly Rubin Schwartz wisdom. of NY/Westchester; Eli Makaron viduals who make their own com- role. Most recently, she served ure as dean and provost, Dr. will succeed me as chancellor,” The 2020 recipients and –United Synagogue of Conserva- munities stronger through their as JTS’s provost, the first woman Schwartz taught as a professor said Chancellor Arnold Eisen. their nominating organizations tive Judaism/USY; Mark Berger volunteerism and dedication”, also in this position, and played of American Jewish history. A “No one knows JTS better than are: Laura Solomon – Bet Am – Westchester Jewish Center; and said Lisa Roberts, President of the an instrumental role in guiding longtime scholar and writer, Dr. Shuly, and no one loves JTS Shalom Synagogue; Nina Luban Louise Albin – Westchester Jewish Westchester Jewish Council. the school’s transition to virtual Schwartz’s research, writing, more. She brings to the task a – Beth El Synagogue Center; Mar- Community Services. As Westchester’s Jewish learning amid the Covid-19 out- and teaching focuses on modern historian’s keen awareness of lene Lerner – Congregation Anshe You can still register today. community relations organiza- break. Jewish life, Jewish American the central role that JTS has Sholom; Linda Portnoy Goldberg https://us02web.zoom.us/ tion, the Council unites Westches- Prior to serving as provost, history, Jewish representation played for over a century in Jew- – Congregation Sulam Yakov; webinar/register/WN_CaREvVNl- ter Jewry with the State of Israel, Dr. Schwartz was dean of List in American population culture, ish scholarship, Conservative Ju- Deborah Bleiweis – First Hebrew Tr2B9T13VV6qcg fosters communication among College, JTS’s undergraduate and Jewish gender studies. Her daism, and the Jewish world as a Congregation; Stacey Rosenkranz After registering, you will Jewish organizations and culti- dual-degree program with Bar- book, The Rabbi’s Wife, a pene- whole. She also brings a fierce – Greenburgh Hebrew Center; receive a confirmation email con- vates and strengthens relations nard and Columbia, for 25 years. trating examination of the role of determination to meet the chal- Alan Most – Hebrew Congregation taining information about joining with other ethnic groups, elected As dean, Dr. Schwartz strength- rabbis’ wives in the development lenges we face with confidence of Somers; Rachelle Rosenberg – the webinar officials and the community at ened the college’s dual-degree of American Jewry, won the Na- and courage. I look forward to The Hebrew Home at Riverdale; The Event will also be large. For more information, visit programs and launched initia- tional Jewish Book Award. her leadership with great antici- Herman Dinkin – Jewish Com- streamed Live on Facebook at: www.wjcouncil.org. tives that built upon JTS’s tradi- “We are thrilled to select pation and excitement.” Westchester Jewish Life • June 2020 • Sivan-Tammuz 5780 • Page 8 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Leffell School Competes in Moot Beit Din 2020! BY H. POLLACK tures, geography and time, to This year’s case dealt choice of the topic was obvious answers. They learned to use influence moral clarity. “ with students involved in a as it was ripped from the head- critical thinking skills by ap- Designed for high school Students competed in campus climate initiative, lines of the past months. The plying ancient wisdom.” students of all Jewish back- teams of up to four members looking to expand on the idea question of accepting money The team, Cahan men- grounds in a pluralistic com- along with an advisor. The of who is able to get funding from morally compromised tioned, has studied Talmud petition, The Moot Beit Din is teams had been preparing for from a donor who has gotten donors and creating a real cri- with him. As a teacher of Rab- meant to be enjoyable for all months and were looking for- his money from unethical sis for Jewish institutions gets binics and Jewish Law, Cahan participants. ward to the competition and means. Students had to ulti- the students to have a deeper was delighted to be the advisor Originally scheduled for the Shabbaton that was sched- mately decide if the students look at things. They learned to the group. “These particular March, the pandemic moved uled to be held in New Jer- in the case could halakhically about Jeffrey Epstein, Harvey students are all good friends. the Moot Beit Din Competi- sey. But things changed and take the money. To do this, Weinstein, Ivan Boesky, the They are involved in many action to go virtual on Sunday, everyone participated from they were given a sourcebook Sacklers.” tivities but they enjoyed the May 24th. The competition, their own home. Represent- that included over 25 pages of The challenge he gave experience of the Moot Beit now run by Hadar, included ing Westchester, The Leffell Jewish sources ranging from the students to ponder was, Din competition so much, they high school students from School in Hartsdale competed ancient to modern texts-- “Where do you draw the line want to be the second team across North America and with four students; Sarah with half of the teams also when dealing with Jewish phi- that the school sends next year Israel, involving 19 schools Grand, Noam Schuck, Eitan choosing to include their own lanthropy?” to the competition, when they sending a total of 27 teams, Zemel and Sally Eisenberg. All research beyond the sources His role, he added, was are seniors.” coming together to debate a 11th graders, the team was led Justice Elena Kagan given. to identify the most relevant The students will receive modern ethical issue through by their school teacher, Josh- Cahan has taught at The sources to give the students. a plaque for their participation a Jewish lens and halakha. ua Cahan. Student teams were in the Kagan Division, named Leffell School for ten years and “I guided them to understand in the event. Cahan comment- “The competition demon- divided into four divisions, for Elena Kagan, Associate Jus- said it was his job to make sure what would be the cost. When ed, “We were all excited and strates to students how rab- judged by 3 Jewish leaders. tice of the Supreme Court of the students on his team un- we all met to discuss, they happy that the presentation binic wisdom can span cul- The Leffell team won 2nd place the United States. derstood the question. “ The had thoughtful and intelligent went well.” Latimer Presents Special Zoom Briefing “Spectacular Sunday” Will Be Largest in Conjunction with Jewish History and Fundraising Event in Jewish National Heritage Month BY STEPHEN E. LIPKEN Fund-USA’s History

Westchester County As Jewish National Fund- and more. Executive George Latimer USA (JNF-USA) continues to “Can you imag- with Deputy County Execu- support Israel’s immediate ine 119-years ago when tive Ken Jenkins presented needs in response to the global our founder, Theodore a Special Zoom Briefing in health pandemic, the organiza- Herzl, a man in his early conjunction with Jewish tion is preparing to phone thou- 40s, asked for the first History and Heritage Month sands of supporters in West- gift for Jewish National on Thursday, May 21st, un- chester, Southern Connecticut, Fund to repurchase the der the auspices of West- and the surrounding region as land of Israel for the chester Jewish Council. part of its June 14 Spectacular Jewish people?” said “Today we have 74 leaders Sunday telethon. In addition to JNF-USA Chief Execu- within the Jewish commu- a world-class line up of online tive Officer, Russell F. nity, a mixture of top-notch entertainment, the day of giv- Robinson. “Surely, he volunteers and profession- ing will also feature a $1 million never could have imag- als, spanning the member- match enabling donors to dou- Rob Zwang ined that in the year ship of WJC and beyond,” ble the value of their gift for the 2020, from Westchester to Wy- according to CEO Elliot incubation period, leaving and markers to note the land and people of Israel. Sunday boasts an impressive oming, and across the ocean Forchheimer. slightly over 2,000 active names; the ribbons can then “Our community always line-up of musicians, comedi- to Israel, thousands of people Introduced by WJC cases. There are slightly un- be pinned to trees. comes together in times of ans, and entertainers includ- would be standing up and say- President Lisa Roberts, der 400 COVID cases hospi- Latimer outlined four need,” said JNF-USA Director, ing David Broza, Elon Gold, ing count on me!” Latimer gave an update of talized; 2 out 3 people who phases for re-opening: 1) Westchester & Southern Con- Michelle Divon, Benji Lovitt, To participate in the larg- the New York COVID-19 re- passed away were 70 years construction, curbside pick- necticut, Rob Zwang. “Wheth- Taylor Williamson, Ethan Her- est fundraising event in JNF- sponse. “We were the first of and over. A total of 1300 up; 2) Insurance, finance, er we are supporting local proj- schenfeld, Cory Kahaney, Ilana USA’s history, tune in via You- those who were affected by people have died but rate of law, local governments; 3) ects in Westchester or helping Levine, Dominic Fumusa, Rick Tube or Facebook on Sunday, the original index patient, deaths has decreased from restaurants, accommodat- the land and people of Israel, Recht, Rebecca Pidgeon, Peter June 14 between 12 pm – 4 pm a member of a Congrega- 45-50 to 6 per night. There ing no more than 50 people, we give as much as we can to Himmelman, Distant Cousins, ET. For more information or to tion in New Rochelle,” Lat- is now concern about a new possibly utilizing outdoor make our world a better place.” David Mamet, Listen Up! Jew- donate, visit jnf.org/spectacu- imer stated. “Testing within COVID-related disease of service; 4) higher education, JNF-USA’s Spectacular ish Vocal Band, Josh Burstein, larsunday or call 800.542.8733. that Congregation created pre-teens and teens. summer park events. some large numbers within “We tested just short of “From a religious Westchester County, draw- 130,000 people in the Coun- standpoint, we are working attention from national ty, 13% of our population.” ing through how services TODAH! media. Ribbons of Remem- can be conducted with Jew- A Virtual Celebrate Israel Parade 2020 will be held at 1pm on “Where we stand today, brance at Lenoir Preserve ish minyans of 10 members. we have 32,500 who have in Yonkers gives a chance Six hiking trails have been June 21, streaming via CelebrateIsraelNY.org, tested positive in Westches- to commemorate those who opened as well as 6 public Facebook and You Tube. This program will be giving thanks to ter County but 30,000 have have died. An onsite small golf courses,” Latimer con- gone through a two-week birdhouse contains ribbons cluded. frontline workers benefitting COVID-19 Relief. Westchester Jewish Life • June 2020 • Sivan-Tammuz 5780 • Page 9 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Let’s Celebrate Your Graduate Together Attention Parents, Grandparents, Aunts, Uncles!!! Do you have a student in the family graduating from a nursery school? How about those special students missing out from their “Moving Up” ceremonies in elementary school and middle school? Your high school and college graduates have had a challenging year like no other. Let’s not forget those attending a private school. Send them a very special message of achievement in the special section, “Congratulations to the Class of 2020”. See the image below for details and contact information. Let’s Celebrate Your Graduate Together...They Deserve It! Rebecca Brown Pelham Memorial High School Attending University of Michigan. Softball Team, Lacrosse Team, ACTUAL Chess Club. SAMPLE We are so proud of you and all your accomplishments. May you shine in everything you endeavor to do in the future! SIZE All our love! Mom, Dad, Grandma Ellie and your brother Jack.

Congratulations to the CLASS OF Rebecca Brown Pelham Memorial High School Attending University of Michigan. Softball Team, Lacrosse Team, Chess Club. SAMPLE ENTRY

We are so proud of you and all your accomplishments. May you shine in everything you endeavor to do in the future! All our love! Mom, Dad, Grandma Ellie and your brother Jack.

Email or call for AD RESERVATION DEADLINE: affordable rate. JUNE 22 2020

Printed in the July issues of the Harrison Herald, Larchmont Ledger, New Rochelle Review, PUBLISHING DATE: The Pelham Post, The Bronxville Bulletin JULY 8, 2020 and Westchester Jewish Life

Joseph Clark Sunrise Nursery School, Larchmont Attending Murray Avenue Elementary School. Excels in counting SAMPLE ENTRY and enjoys reading and soccer.

What a wonderful year. You are growing up so fast. Now on to Kindergarten. Joseph, we are so proud of you and can't wait to see all the things you learn next. Love, your Mom & Dad Email An online, downloadable flipbook [email protected] will be available to share with loved ones! for details and to reserve a spot or call 914-738-7869. Katie Plymouth Bronxville Middle School Attending Bronxville High School. Participates in the Science SAMPLE ENTRY Club, Art Club and enjoys all sports and crafting.

Katie, we are so very proud of your hard work in a crazy time. You have excelled in all the you take on. Now on to High School! Love, Mom, Dad, Scott, Chrissy and of course Ruff!!!

Westchester Jewish Life • May 2020 • Iyar-Sivan 5780 • Page 10 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com County Executive Commemorates Memorial Day “Westchester County will for- New CEO at American Friends of ever be indebted to those who risked their lives and sacrificed everything Bar-Ilan University to protect our liberties and free- American Friends of Bar- Zekelman, Chairman of the dom. While we may be in the midst Ilan University (AFBIU) have Board for AFBIU. “Nina stood of a global pandemic, it is still our announced the appointment out for her enthusiasm, intel- responsibility to ensure that our na- of Dr. Nina Hanan as its new ligence, strategic mindset and tion’s heroes will always be remem- Chief Executive Officer (CEO). dynamic personality. We be- bered with dignity and pride. This Ms. Hanan assumed her new lieve she has all the qualities Memorial Day will be celebrated dif- role beginning June 1st from that will allow her, in partner- ferently than Memorial Days in the AFBIU’s New York City head- ship with key stakeholders, to past; we will not be able to gather to- quarters. lead AFBIU to a new level of gether with family, friends and loved Dr. Hanan will be joining fundraising success.” ones as we normally do to embark AFBIU after several years as Established in 1955, Bar- on the unofficial ‘kick-off’ to -sum the Chief Development Officer Dr. Nina Hanan Ilan University is one of Israel’s mer. But – let us be sure to take a few with Friends of the Israel De- leading institutions of higher moments to honor and remember fense Forces (FIDF). She brings America, and to supporting education and the only one those who lost their lives, so that we may be free. May these heroes never be forgotten,” said County a distinguished career of over life-altering research at the which combines cutting-edge Executive George Latimer. 25 years as a nonprofit execu- university that impacts Israel scientific research with educa- tive and management profes- and the world. tion steeped in Jewish values. sional, and a strategic and Dr. Hanan grew up in American Friends of Bar- Two Arrested in Racist, innovative thinker with a suc- Israel and holds a BA from Ilan University (AFBIU) is an cessful track record serving City College of New York and essential partner in Bar-Ilan’s the Jewish community. Prior a Ph.D. in Political Science development. AFBIU develops Anti-Semitic Graffiti Incident to joining FIDF in 2015, she was from the Graduate School and vital philanthropic support the Chief Development Officer for this unique university. The Westchester County Police have charged time when we all need to stand together as we University Center at the City at the Anti-Defamation League generosity of its donors trans- two men with spray-painting the racist and anti- face the challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.” University of New York. She (ADL). forms dreams into realities. It Semitic graffiti that was found spray-painted on Public Safety Commissioner Thomas A. is a member of the Board of “I am absolutely delight- funds state-of-the-art facilities Monday, May 26, on County-owned property on Gleason thanked the Bronxville Police Depart- Directors of Women in Devel- ed to begin this exciting new and academic projects. It helps the Bronxville-Yonkers border. ment and Westchester County District Attorney’s opment (WID) and served as chapter of my career with attract preeminent faculty. The graffiti, including a swastika and rac- Office for its assistance in the investigation. co-chair of WID’s President’s AFBIU,” says Ms. Hanan. “Bar- And it offers opportunities ist language targeting African-Americans and Arrested were: Nodar Kikvisize, 22, of Council. Ilan University is one of Israel’s to support unparalleled aca- Mexican-Americans, was found on the back of a Bronxville and Thomas Hasselt, 23, of Yonkers. “We couldn’t be more leading institutions of higher demic advancements, while dugout at Scout Field and along a pathway north Both were charged with Criminal Mischief 3rd pleased with our choice of learning. I look forward to promoting an appreciation of of the ballfield. It has since been covered over by Degree as a Hate Crime and Aggravated Harass- Nina Hanan for our Chief Ex- expanding its renown across Jewish values. County public works personnel. ment 1st Degree, felonies; and Making Graffiti, a ecutive position,” says Alan The vandalism was reported to Westches- misdemeanor. ter County Police about 10 a.m. when a woman “We share a responsibility to come togeth- approached an officer who had arrived to con- er and support each other especially in this time duct an inspection of the area, which is off Mid- of a public health crisis and speak out against Hakhel Awarded Prestigious land Avenue. The Bronxville Police Department racism, anti-Semitism and all acts of hatred in and Westchester County parks personnel also our community. Please contact the Westchester Jerusalem Unity Prize responded and assisted in documenting the County Human Rights Commission at (914) 995- scene. 7710 or by email at humanrights@westchester- On June 2, 2020, “Hateful acts of this kind have no place in gov.com if you are aware of any instances of hate Hakhel, the Jewish Inten- Westchester County, ever,” County Executive or bias in the County,” Executive Director Tejash tional Communities In- George Latimer said. “But this is particularly a Sanchala said. cubator, was awarded the Jerusalem Unity Prize in the international category. Alzheimer's Educational Conference Features Dr. Oz Hakhel, a project of Hazon, the Jewish Lab for Sustain- The Alzheimer’s Foun- and educate coming a long term ability, received the prize dation of America, a national munities about Al- care team during for its relentless work to nonprofit organization based zheimer’s disease, COVID-19, and the cultivate emerging Jewish in New York, will be hosting a provide tips and role of caregiver communities all over the free, virtual, Alzheimer’s edu- strategies to care- technology. Spe- world and forge the connec- cational conference on June givers, and offer cial guest speaker tion between them and the 16th at 9:30 am. healthy aging tips. for the New York State of Israel. The prize There are more than They also provide conference will be was awarded in a special 400,000 individuals in New information on lo- Dr. Mehmet Oz, ceremony at Israeli Presi- York living with Alzheimer’s cal resources. who will share his From right to left, Leah Palmer, Director at Hakhel, Hakhel General Director dent Reuven Rivlin’s resi- disease. Caregiving has become This year, the own experiences Aharon Ariel Lavi, Knesset Member Nir Barkat, Uri and Iris Yifrach. Photo dence. Rivlin is well known an even more overwhelming conferences are as a caregiver for credit: Mark Neiman, Government Press Office. for his long-standing ef- responsibility since these in- geared towards his mother. forts to bring the different dividuals are among the most helping families All of these social and economic conse- pay tribute to the wonder- “tribes” of Israeli society vulnerable to COVID-19 when through COVID-19 topics will provide quences, we are again be- ful organizations, men and Dr. Oz together, as well as world you consider their age and un- as it is certainly having a tre- tremendous help to families ing pushed to ask ourselves women who devote their Jewry. derlying health conditions. mendous impact on families caring for a loved one with the whether we respect each time to promoting unity. At the ceremony, Is- The conference is part of affected by Alzheimer’s dis- disease, and really to all fami- other. Is the connection be- The Jewish world is lucky to raeli President Reuven the National Educating Amer- ease. They will be discussing lies. tween us strong enough to have people like you.” Rivlin said, “These days, ica Tour, which was started a such topics as Covid-19 safety To view the program, go to bring this period to an end, Founded in 2014, while we are experiencing couple of years ago. The goal of and health while navigating alzfdn.org/tour and click on NY safely? The Unity Day, and Hakhel, which operates in a health crisis that has both continued on page 12 the tour is to visit all 50 states the reopening process, creat- event to get instructions. the Jerusalem Unity Award, Westchester Jewish Life • June 2020 • Sivan-Tammuz 5780 • Page 11 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Hakhel Awarded Prestigious Jerusalem Unity Prize ArtsWestchester Holds Virtual Awards Ceremony continued from page 11

ArtsWestchester and partnership with Israel’s Ministry of Dias- mittee included former Jerusalem Mayor the Board of Trustees will pora Affairs, is the first and largest global Nir Barkat, chairman of the award commit- hold a Virtual Arts Award incubator for Jewish intentional commu- tee, Isaac “Bougie” Herzog, Natan Sharan- Ceremony on June 30. nities, comprising over 130 communities sky, Kobi Oz, Brig. Gen. (res.) Amal Assad, The 2020 Honorees: in 30 different countries. Its mission is to Noam Lautman, Rabbi Shai Piron, Israel spark and support new expressions of Jew- Goldshmid, Rabbi Lord Jonathan Sacks, ish life around the world by nurturing the Award -- Blue Door Art Cen- Lawrence Salley Pho- David Menachem, Karin Mayer Rubinstein, growth of intentional communities with ter. A vibrant arts organiza- tography Award -- Arnold Shlomi Yehiav, and the Yifrach, Shaar, and the help of advisors, seed funding and net- tion enlivens the cultural Kastenbaum. A talented Fraenkel families. The prize was created to work building. life of Yonkers. photographer plays with memorialize Eyal Yifrach, Gilad Shaar and Hakhel General Director Aharon Ariel Sophia Abeles Edu- light to transform ordinary Naftali Fraenkel who were murdered by Pal- Lavi stated, “We are deeply honored to re- cation Award -- Ossining objects. estinian terrorists in 2014. ceive the Jerusalem Unity Award. Foster- Public Library. This library Luncheon Co-Chairs “This year, we chose the winners Emily & Eugene Grant ing Jewish connections among Jews around brings a diverse range of are Helen & Bill Gates and in the midst of the COVID-19 Pandemic, Arts Patron Award -- The the world and Israel is a cornerstone of arts programming to North- Deborah & Alan Simon. during which we felt the need to care for Romita Family of Pelham. A Hakhel’s work, especially in this time of cri- ern Westchester. Committee Chair is Barbara each other more, and make sure we all family’s leadership and ded- sis, and as shown by our more than 130 in- Community Award -- Z. Monohan. get through this time safely. As a result of ication fuels the cultural life tentional communities worldwide. We look City of New Rochelle. This For more event infor- these sentiments, we selected this year’s of the Pelham community. forward to continuing to spark and support historic city makes arts and mation, go to artsw.org/art- winners which inspire us all with their new expressions of Jewish life around the culture central to its revital- saward2020. daily work for the unity of our people, in world in the years to come.” ization efforts. Israel and around the world,” said Knesset The Jerusalem Unity Prize is given to Member Nir Barkat, the former mayor of individuals, organizations, and initiatives Jerusalem and co-founder of the Jerusa- in Israel and throughout the Jewish world lem Unity Prize. whose actions are instrumental in advanc- Hakhel will dedicate a substantial part ing mutual respect for others amongst the of its monetary prize to conduct a global Artist Award -- Pablo Jewish people, during crises and in daily campaign to honor and support communi- Mayor. An acclaimed jazz life. The ceremony this year was not open ties that fought on the social frontlines dur- musician shares his pas- to the public, but will be broadcast online. Education Award -- A- ing the COVID-19 pandemic and are now fig- sion for modern Colombian A special public committee selected Chord with Kids. A group of uring out how to prepare for the aftermath music and dance with the the winners of the 2020 award. The com- youth volunteers provides of the crisis. world. music education and men- Arts Organization torship to its peers. The Importance of Parental Advocacy for Vulnerable Students During COVID-19 BY BERNARD A. KROOKS the entitlement to a FAPE dur- progress in all areas. Docu- appropriately ambitious and district should document this AND MARION M. WALSH ing the COVID-19 emergency. ment what is working and not not recycled from the year be- on the IEP. The New York State Education working and what services the fore. 8. Make Sure the IEP Re- The COVID-19 pandemic Department has stated that school district may not have 5. Review Needed Transi- flects Parental Perspective. has made education more chal- students with disabilities must provided. Check whether the tion Services. If your child is If you disagree with the IEP, lenging than ever. Schools are receive continuity of learn- district has completed evalu- turning 15 this year, the IEP make sure the comments re- operating remotely and may ing and, to the greatest extent ations in the past three years. must contain appropriate flect this. Document any con- continue to do so for the fore- possible, the special education 2. Review IEP. Ensure you transition services, meaning cerns in writing. seeable future. In fact, no one and related services identified have a copy of your child’s IEP. the services needed to transi- 9. If Your Child Does not knows what public education in the student’s individual- If you do not, request it from tion to post-secondary school- have an IEP, Consider Referral. a founding partner of Littman will look like in September. In ized education program (IEP). the school district. Ensure the ing or programming and inde- If you believe your child has a Krooks LLP and has been hon- this age of remote instruction, Thus, even though school IEP is accurate and reflects pendent living. disability that is impacting his ored as one of the “Best Lawyers” all involved face unprecedent- buildings are not open, educa- your child’s needs. Take the 6. Be Realistic in Expecta- education, refer your student in America for each of the last ed uncertainty and stress. tional and therapeutic services time to ensure that present lev- tions. A FAPE requires an ap- to the Committee on Special seven years. He is past President Yet the pandemic has had must continue in a way that els of educational achievement propriate education—which Education for evaluations to of the National Academy of Elder a disproportionate impact on works for each student. and functional performance means that the IEP must be determine eligibility. You may Law Attorneys (NAELA) and past students with learning or emo- School districts will be are correct and updated. reasonably calculated for edu- also refer your child for a Sec- President of the New York Chap- tional disabilities. The transi- seeking increased flexibil- 3. Make Sure you Under- cational benefits in light of a tion 504 plan if you think your ter of NAELA. Mr. Krooks has also tion to remote instruction has ity due to the current crisis. stand Program and Services. child’s circumstances. In 2017, child needs accommodations served as chair of the Elder Law left many with inappropriate That’s why it is particularly im- Make sure you understand the the U.S. Supreme Court clari- but not special education ser- Section of the New York State Bar programming or services, the portant for parents to be vigi- IEP. What is the class size for fied that progress just above vices. School districts have an Association. He has been selected inability to access instruction lant and proactive in working your student? Will she have minimal is not enough to show obligation to identify and eval- as a “New York Super Lawyer” and a feeling of isolation. Par- on an appropriate program for an appropriate amount of in- a FAPE. Yet the IDEA does not uate students who may have a since 2006. Mr. Krooks may be ents may feel too overwhelmed your child—whether a Kinder- teraction with non-disabled require a school district to disability. reached at (914-684-2100) or by to assist and often lack the gartener or a young adult-- for peers? Consider whether the provide services to maximize 10. Consider Legal Repre- visiting the firm’s website at www. training to do so. now and for next year. frequency of related services, a student’s potential. So for ef- sentation if You Need Help. If elderlawnewyork.com. In these times, parent ad- such as speech or counseling, fective advocacy, focus on what you are unclear about your stu- Marion M. Walsh, Esq., is vocacy is more important than Ten Tips for Strong and is appropriate. is appropriate. dent’s rights and the responsi- a partner of Littman Krooks LLP ever. The Individuals with Dis- Informed Advocacy 4. Examine Annual Goals. 7. Consider Whether Your bility of your school district, it who leads the special education abilities Education Act (IDEA) 1. Review and Document Every IEP contains goals to ad- Child Needs Increased servic- is recommended to seek legal department. She serves on the mandates that each student Progress this Year. During the dress every area of need. Goals es. Make sure the IEP reflects representation from an experi- Board of Directors of NAMI West- with a disability receive a free quarantine, you may have had drive the programming and any changes brought on by the enced attorney. chester and is a past honoree from appropriate public education more time with your child and should be specific, measur- quarantine. Thus, if your child Bernard A. Krooks, Esq., is Westchester Jewish Community (FAPE). The U.S. Department have a better sense of how they able, achievable, relevant and has regressed or is showing Services, as advocate of the year. of Education has confirmed are doing in school. Monitor timely. Make sure the goals are increased anxiety, the school Westchester Jewish Life • June 2020 • Sivan-Tammuz 5780 • Page 12 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Volunteering Opportunities During Covid-19 BY DIANA EPPOLITO, WJCS DIRECTOR sent to our headquarters and our models, and help with access Charlotte Cobbs, WJCS, 845 year WJCS helps hundreds of the school year motivated and OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND staff will distribute these items to educational and recreation- North Broadway, White Plains, children in under-resourced prepared to learn. DONOR RELATIONS to families in need. To find the al activities in the community. NY 10603. communities in Westchester To apply and find out more registry, go to: bit.ly/3eKD7vq. • Share your skills with • Help pack and deliver start the school year with new information about volunteer op- “How wonderful that no • Contribute to our WJCS Center Lane, Westchester’s groceries for our senior pro- school supplies. Contributions portunities, please go to wjcs. one need wait a single moment virtual library by sending us only LGBTQ+ youth commu- gram in Mount Vernon. Vol- from Westchester residents, com. Please contact Diana Ep- to improve the world.” -Anne content. We’re looking for nity center. Center Lane is unteers will be creating food business leaders, and church- polito, WJCS Director of Com- Frank simple no-shopping-required looking for volunteers with packages at and delivering es and synagogues have helped munity Engagement and Donor tutorials or DIY projects as skills they would like to share meals from our headquarters make this important initiative Relations, if you are interested in COVID-19 has brought a well as videos of storybook with clients. Help with resume in White Plains. If interested, a success in the past. With the participating in the WJCS Back great feeling of uncertainty, as reading, joke telling, or shar- building, job interviewing, nu- please fill out a Volunteer Ap- school interruptions that chil- to School Drive or have ques- people cope with illness, job ing an inspiring family or cul- trition, and fitness are espe- plication form on wjcs.com. dren have experienced during tions about volunteer opportu- loss, isolation, and fear for the tural story. All content should cially appreciated. • Take part in our an- the pandemic, it’s more impor- nities at WJCS: (914) 848-8156 or future. But there is one thing be family friendly. Send your • Make homemade face nual Back to School Drive. Each tant than ever for them to start writing [email protected]. that is certain. The Westches- video to WJCSVirtualVolun- masks. These are needed ter community cares about its [email protected]. throughout WJCS! While neighbors. At WJCS-Westches- • Arrange to make Care these masks are not medical Real Estate Matters by John E. Baer, SRES, SRS ter Jewish Community Servic- Calls. Regularly arranged care grade, they offer some degree es, we have been overwhelmed calls have become a major of protection and are less in- What Will Westchester’s Housing Market Look by the touching generosity of tool in combating feelings of timidating for kids and others Westchester residents who intense isolation for clients wary of face coverings. There Like After The Coronavirus Pandemic Ends? have contributed in a variety in our community residences are many easy online tutorials The worst global pan- and Eastchester. Even with homes, negotiate in person, of ways to help us support our and many of the seniors in our demonstrating how to make demic in more than a century stay at home orders in place and be physically present at 20,000 clients during the coro- programs. a face mask, including on the has put Westchester and sur- mid-month, March luxury closings. The speed at which navirus pandemic. • Volunteer in our Com- New York Times website. rounding tristate residents home sales still outpaced 2019 consumers can “see” and “ex- There are many ways to be peer program, which is now • Send pictures, poems, or under “Stay at Home” orders. numbers 16 vs. 8. perience” residential real charitable and support WJCS’s functioning remotely. Com- caring messages to the seniors In Westchester, these orders Currently, homes that are estate is ultimately going to efforts to help Westchester peer creates one-to-one in our programs. We welcome have made on-site real estate listed at market value, sell very result in increased activity. At residents who are struggling matches with volunteers and whatever you are inspired to showings and other non-es- quickly. Last month I repre- this point, I recommend sell- during this difficult time: individuals going through a create to spread joy. We will in- sential activity illegal. sented a Scarsdale home seller ers prepare their homes for • Contribute to the WJCS tough time. Volunteers pro- clude your message of joy with So, what is COVID-19 go- who received multiple offers, sale by making it show ready COVID-19 Fund on wjcs.com vide supportive friendship, the meals that are delivered to ing to do to the housing mar- one of which was accepted, and consulting with their • Shop the WJCS Target advocacy, increased social in- seniors at home. Please mail ket’s spring selling season? within three days of listing. I agent on pricing. If the home Registry. Basic necessities will be teraction, serve as positive role masks and messages of joy to That’s the period up to July also represented a buyer who is currently ready, list it now. when more than half of West- made a 10% over listing price If properly priced, you will chester home sales typically offer that was accepted the day have multiple offers. For buy- County Remembers Over 1,100 Residents Who Have occur, as families with kids try after the home was listed. In ers, I recommend getting pre- to move before the start of the all, there were five offers that approved now in order to have Died Of Covid-19 with “Ribbons of Remembrance” new school year in September. same day, most of them over a strong offer when you are Overlooking the Hud- when it’s you, Here are the highlights of listing. The fact is, there is low ready to move forward with son River and the Palisades at the remem- the Berkshire Hathaway Ho- inventory and a high demand purchasing a home. Lenoir Preserve in Yonkers, brance of your meServices, the largest real for homes in Westchester. If you would like me to stands a new memorial, the loved one and estate company in the nation, Berkshire Hathaway Ho- send you this entire Quar- Ribbons of Remembrance, nature. We are Westchester Quarterly Mar- meServices real estate pro- terly Marketing Report or if dedicated to Westchester here near the ket Report for the first three fessionals continue to follow you have any other real estate County residents who have lost eternal Hud- months of 2020. executive orders to stay home questions, please contact me their lives to COVID-19. son and eternal The steady home prices and stay safe while at the same so that I can help you navigate Visitors will find the me- mountains in in 2019 fourth-quarter gains time conducting virtual show- the current market in these morial a short walk away from sky that will be carried into the first two ings, taking offers online, ne- very unusual times. the Lenoir Preserve parking lot here before we months of 2020 for all price gotiating through virtual chan- In the meantime, I hope in front of the Wightman Man- got here and points in Westchester County. nels, and of course conducting you and those around you re- sion. Ribbons and permanent here long after First-quarter momentum, fully secure virtual closings. main safe and healthy. markers will be available at we are gone. however, was reduced in Technology was already a driv- the memorial. Visitors are en- "It’s a way to March by nearly 17% due to the ing force in residential real couraged to write the name of remember that impact of the COVID-19 pan- estate, as most home searches someone they have lost on the these people demic. There were 5.6% fewer begin online in one way or an- ribbon and tie it to one of two were once with condominiums, co-ops, and other, however, the COVID-19 trees or the rope structure. us, important single-family homes sold in pandemic has exponentially Visitors are asked to drop to us and we’re not going to the first quarter of 2020 when moved that process forward. used permanent markers in forget them.” Department of Community compared to the same time With millennials becoming John E. Baer, SRES, SRS the designated bin to be prop- Westchester County Mental Health Commissioner last year. On the other hand, the largest home buying popu- is a NYS licensed real estate erly disinfected by parks staff. Parks Department Commis- Michael Orth said, “Although the average price still went up lation, outpacing both their salesperson associated with Westchester County Ex- sioner Kathy O’Connor added, we are unable to grieve in 8% across all home types, and Boomer and Gen-X parents, Berkshire Hathaway HomeSer- ecutive George Latimer said, “The Westchester County traditional ways during this days on market remained flat there is no doubt that tech- vices Westchester Properties of “We need within our culture Parks Department is proud to time, it is critical that we allow at 87 days. In Scarsdale, the av- nology within our industry Scarsdale and Larchmont. In certain social points where we memorialize the victims of the ourselves and others the time erage price increase 15% over is going to continue to evolve the last three and a half years he can come together. We have all COVID-19 pandemic. Our staff necessary to work through this the same period last year. In rapidly. earned the month’s “Top Selling lost people that we know and has worked diligently to pro- process in order to move to- the first quarter, there were Looking ahead, Berkshire Award” nine times in the Scars- love through this process. This vide a peaceful environment ward health and healing. Con- 15 more homes sold over $2 Hathaway HomeServices is dale office. He can be reached is a chance to do something that will allow people to reflect nect with loved ones and seek million in Westchester County confident that the demand will for questions at 914/844-2059. tangible to remember that per- on the loss they are feeling.” out additional support if you when compared to 2019, most surge in the coming months, His website is www.Westches- son in those quiet moments, Westchester County are in need.” notably in Rye City, Scarsdale, and we will be able to visit terHomes.info. Westchester Jewish Life • June 2020 • Sivan-Tammuz 5780 • Page 13 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Do you want to receive a digital copy of Westchester Jewish Life each month? Would you like to know about new announcements during the month? SIGN UP NOW!!! Go to westchesterjewishlife.com and fill out the sign up form on the homepage today! Business Cards $87. per issue. Prepaid only. Just mail us your Business Card and Full Payment and we’ll take care of the rest. 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Westchester Jewish Life • June 2020 • Sivan-Tammuz 5780 • Page 14 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Holocaust Education Act to Provide Support Jewish National Fund Sponsors Summer Reading Series for Holocaust Education Jewish National Fund On July 22, 2020 at 8:00 pm As the U.S. Senate unani- of the Holocaust to prevent it {JNF} is sponsoring a Summer (ET), Jewish Comedy: A Serious mously passes the Never from ever happening again. I Reading Series for good reads History by Jeremy Dauber will Again Education Act, the commend Reps. Maloney and and thought provoking conver- take place. World Jewish Congress ap- Stefanik, and Sens. Rosen, Cra- sation. On August 19, 2020 at 8:00 plauds the legislation which mer, Blumenthal and Rubio for JNF’s Virtual Book Club pm (ET), The Ten Command- will provide federal funding to working on both sides of the allows you to engage with the ments of Character: Essential expand Holocaust education aisle to give our country’s edu- author for a thought provoking Advice for Living an Honorable, in the United States. H.R. 943 cators the resources they need conversation. Ethical, Honest Life by Rabbi passed was signed by Presi- to teach their students about You may listen and share in Joseph Telushkin will end the dent Trump on May 28. The the darkest era of history. This a moderated discussion with Is- series. Holocaust education legisla- legislation is a tremendous raelCast’s host, Steven Shalowitz Rabbi Joseph Telushkin Participants can connect tion will expand the U.S. Ho- step forward toward prioritiz- and the featured author. dates and a Zoom Conference. with host Steven Shalowitz via locaust Memorial Museum’s ing and standardizing Holo- The books are available at The call link will be sent to you. social media: Facebook, Twitter educational resources dis- caust education, and I hope outlets like Amazon, Audible, On June 24, 2020 at 8:00 or Instagram. seminated nationally. and pray that it serves as a Google Play Books, or wherever pm (ET), The 100 Most Jewish For more information or to World Jewish Congress model to world leaders around you receive your audio or elec- Foods: A Highly Debatable List register, and for future dates, vis- President Ronald S. Lauder, the globe.” tronic books. by Alana Newhouse will be fea- it jnf.org/ondemand or contact Ronald S. Lauder who has advocated for the im- The World Jewish Con- Register for your desired tured. Sarah Cohen at [email protected]. portance of increased Holo- “Antisemitism is an in- gress (WJC) is the internation- caust education in American sidious force in our country, as al organization representing schools and with the support well as globally, and our elect- Jewish communities in 100 Caramoor Announces Flexible Programming for of governments at all levels, ed officials have a responsibil- countries to governments, said the following about the ity to ensure that future gener- parliaments and international Summer 20/2.0, with New, On-Site, Livestreamed bill’s passage: ations understand the horrors organizations. Performances Caramoor has long been a the Music Room of place of inspiration. With more the Rosen House, JTS Celebrates Graduates at 126th than 80 acres of woodlands, gar- known for its his- dens, sound art and outdoor per- toric furnishings Commencement in Virtual Ceremony formance space, the Westchester and intimate acous- For the first time in its we are holding you there was a virtual cultural arts destination is in a tics. Professionally 134-year history, The Jewish in our hearts. For procession to festive unique position to pivot from its produced for the oc- Theological Seminary (JTS) held the entire JTS com- klezmer music, re- traditional summer season and casion, these new its commencement ceremony munity, this day is marks from student find new ways of inspiring audi- video streams will virtually on Thursday, May 21. all about you. We speakers, and an ences safely, just when they need it feature such world- JTS Chancellor Arnold M. Eisen are so proud of your opening invocation most. While unable to present the class artists as Inon delivered the 2020 Commence- accomplishments. by Rabbi Lisa Ma- full summer season as planned, Barnatan, Conor Hanick, Sandbox site-specific sound art installa- ment address to the 77 graduates I can imagine the lik (RS ’04). Other Caramoor is pleased to announce Percussion, the Calidore String tions of Sonic Innovations (Thurs from the institution’s five schools: beaming faces of highlights of the Summer 20/2.0, positioning itself Quartet and Musicians from The through Sun, from July 16). List College, the Kekst Gradu- your parents, grand- ceremony included to participate responsibly in New Knights, and repertoire ranging Finally, a variety of outdoor ate School, H. L. Miller Cantorial parents, other rela- the singing of the York’s re-opening process. A new, from Mozart and Tchaikovsky to pop-up events may also be added School, Rabbinical School, and tives, and friends national anthem three-part plan with the flexibility excerpts from Shirley Graham Du to the lineup, with appearances the William Davidson Graduate who are watching Arnold M. Eisen and Hatikvah by the to accommodate a wide range of Bois’ opera Tom-Tom, a children’s around the grounds by artists in- School of Jewish Education. this ceremony with graduating students potential circumstances, Summer program, and the world premieres cluding a brass ensemble from Or- “It’s not easy to know how to us now, filled with pride, love, and of the H. L. Miller Cantorial School, 20/2.0 comprises livestreamed of new works by Christopher chestra of St. Luke’s, Caramoor’s do good in this world. After years admiration.” a closing montage of student pho- on-site performances, live perfor- Cerrone and Anna Clyne. Each orchestra-in-residence for the of study at JTS, you know that During this unprecedented tos and acknowledgements from mances for low-density audiences streamed performance will be ac- past 41 years. Jewish texts and history testify ceremony, undergraduates in their relatives, and special tributes on Friends Field, and opening companied by additional content When it comes to public to the complexity of the task we the dual-degree programs were to Chancellor Arnold M. Eisen up the gardens and sound art for including talks with the artists and safety, Caramoor is serious about face in trying to leave the world awarded bachelor’s degrees from upon his retirement. limited tours. Each part can be closer looks at the Westchester taking precautions. The 20/2.0 plan better than we found it,” Chancel- List College; they also graduated JTS is a preeminent institu- implemented independently and house and grounds (July 2–Aug 6). incorporates the recommended lor Eisen said in his address to the from Columbia University or Bar- tion of Jewish higher education, phased with different options de- Later in the summer, Car- health and safety guidelines. The graduates. “But those same texts, nard College at separate ceremo- training thoughtful, innovative pending on the circumstances at amoor plans to host four live, upcoming broadcasts are designed that same history, urge on us the nies. Master’s and doctoral candi- leaders—rabbis, cantors, educa- the time. All activities will be sub- public, open-air concerts on with home audiences in mind, and conviction that the work has to be dates who completed their studies tors, lay leaders, and scholars— ject to current government health Friends Field. Suitable for small, the spacious Music Room provides attempted, nonetheless. Despite at Gershon Kekst Graduate School who strengthen communities and safety guidelines, as well as well-spaced audiences, these will a safe recording environment for our own glaring imperfection, for and the William Davidson Gradu- with a vision of Judaism that is re-confirmation in the days before. feature multiple genres: American soloists and small groups. Many all that the problems we face are ate School of Jewish Education deeply grounded in the Jewish Caramoor CEO Jeff Haydon Roots, mariachi, jazz and swing health officials consider outdoor immense, and for all that on some also received degrees. At the Tekes past and thoroughly engaged explains: “Caramoor’s purpose is (Saturdays, July 18–Aug 8, with spaces low-risk for virus transmis- bleak days we are tempted to give Hasmakhah, the ceremony of rab- with contemporary society. JTS to inspire a lifelong love of music in rain dates on the following Sun- sion in summer, so, by increasing up hope, we have to try to love binic ordination and cantorial in- also provides high-caliber lifelong our beautiful setting. Rather than days). public access, Caramoor hopes with all we have: heart and soul as vestiture, cantors were invested by learning and professional devel- cancel our summer season en- In addition, Caramoor hopes to be of valuable service to the lo- well as mind and might.” the H. L. Miller Cantorial School opment to alumni, adult learners, tirely, Caramoor’s Summer 20/2.0 to open its outdoor spaces to the cal community. For Friends Field Alan Levine, JTS’s chair and College of Jewish Music, and and Jewish communities through- provides ways we might still be public, beginning in mid-July. Visi- events, capacity would be strictly of the board, also addressed rabbis were ordained by The Rab- out North America. Through its able to offer opportunities to bring tors will be able to enjoy its land- limited and performances ampli- the virtual community: “To our binical School. A select number Library, JTS preserves and makes much-needed inspiration to our scaped Italianate and woodland fied for guests to enjoy from a safe graduating students: although of students received multiple de- accessible to students and schol- community.” gardens, interacting with nature, distance, sitting on their own chairs you are scattered across North grees from various JTS schools. ars throughout the world the Over the course of Summer architecture and history on so- or blankets while social-distancing America physically, in this mo- In addition to the confer- greatest collection of Judaica in 20/2.0, Caramoor aims to stream cially distant picnics and walks, as from each other. More details will ment we are very much together; ral of degrees for all five schools, the Western Hemisphere. seven new performances from well as exploring the superlative follow in early July.

Westchester Jewish Life • June 2020 • Sivan-Tammuz 5780 • Page 15 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com