Community Unites in Solidarity Against Anti-Semitism by STEPHEN E

WESTCHESTER January 2020 -- Tevet-Shevat 5780, Volume 26, Issue 1

1994-2019

JewishWESTCHESTER COUNTY’S ONLY MONTHLY JEWISHLife NEWSPAPER Community Unites in Solidarity Against Anti-Semitism BY STEPHEN E. LIPKEN

An estimated 800 citizens from White Plains and surround- ing communities poured into Tem- ple Israel Center, White Plains on Wednesday, January 8th, attend- ing the seminar “Anti-Semitism: What We Face and How We Fight It,” presented by UJA-Federation of New York and Westchester Jewish Council (WJC). Featured speakers were Hindy Poupko, Deputy Chief Planning Westchester County District Officer, UJA-Federation; West- Elliot Forchheimer, Lisa Roberts, WJC President Attorney Anthony A. Scarpino, chester County District Attorney Executive Director, Jr. Anthony A. Scarpino, Jr. and Mark Westchester Jewish Council Weitzman, Director of Government Affairs, Simon Wiesenthal Center. “Today’s program brings the other prejudices. There community together to learn more was never any State- about how we can combat anti- sponsored religion.” Semitism,” according to Scarpino referred to the “How do we fight UJA Westchester Regional weekend vandalism in Yorktown it? First, a working defi- Director Audrey Stein. in which houses of worship and nition of anti-Semitism “On Sunday, January 5th a menorah were desecrated. He must be established, ac- we were all part of the ‘No pointed to the Westchester Intel- cording to International Fear No Hate,’ mobilization ligence Center which has mapped Holocaust Remembrance of 25,000 people to stand Schools, Jewish Centers and works Alliance (IHRA). My in- up against recent acts closely with the Department of Jus- stitution, the Simon Wie- of anti-Semitism in New tice, FBI, New York State Police, senthal Center has called York. Homeland Security and WJC Secu- for an FBI Task Force. Millie Jasper, Director, Holocaust and Human Rights “We met in Foley rity Committee, conducting intelli- And anti-Semitism can- Education Center (HHREC); Steven Goldberg, HHREC Square, then marched gence and threat assessments. not be used as a political Co-Director, Education. across the Brooklyn Bridge “Are we in a period that re- tool. It is present on both to Cadman Plaza. We are sembles 1933 Germany,” Weitzman Right and Left. giving $4 million dollars asked. “Categorically, no. There is “Anti-Semitism should not am not for myself, who will be for over the next two years to no State-sponsored violence. Anti- define us a Jews. Judaism as we me?’ Fighting anti-Semitism be- help 2,000 organizations Semitism has existed since Colo- choose to live as Jews should do gins with us. We must fight and not Cindy Golub, UJA Regional Chair; Audrey Stein, Regional with security.” nial times, but has competed with that. As the Pirke Avot states, ‘If I be silent,” Weitzman stressed. Director, UJA Westchester.

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FREE Munchies Elected officials march across the Brooklyn Bridge. (From right to left) Congressman Gregory Meeks; Governor Andrew (value over $30) with Cuomo, UJA CEO Eric Goldstein; Senator Chuck Schumer; Mayor Bill DeBlasio; US Senator Kirsten Gillibrand; JCRC your Big Game Season CEO Michael Miller; and New York State Attorney General Letitia James. Image courtesy of Jake Asner, UJA-Federation of New York. Favorites catering order for 12 or more. York, and many from the non- Yorkers of all backgrounds than Greenblatt, Gil Monrose, Jewish community, is a re- gathered in Brooklyn’s Cad- David Harris, Mehnaz Afridi, Four dozen hors d’oeuvres flection of the seriousness of man Plaza where a number of Janice Shorenstein, Frankie FREE for munching. Choose the plague of anti-Semitism community leaders and heads Miranda, Joe Potasnik, Bishop from frankfurters in jackets, affecting New York,” said Mi- of faith-based organizations Anthony DiMarzio, Blake Flay- chael Miller, executive vice including Cardinal Timothy ton, Matisyahu, Eric Ward, mini potato, spinach or kasha president and CEO of JCRC- Dolan spoke about the recent Chaskel Bennet, Rabbi Avra- knishes. Offer expires Sunday, NY. “We will continue to work attacks, the rise of anti-Semi- ham Gopin, Shulem, MaN- February 2, 2020. with our political leadership tism, and the need for people ishtana, Lawrence Aker, Rev. locally, statewide, and nation- of all faiths to fight injustice. Que English, Eli Cohen, Amy ally to address this scourge to Additional speakers and Bressman, Bari Weiss, and Isa- ensure the safety and security performers during the pro- iah Rothstein, as well as a video of the Jewish community and gram included Eric Goldstein, message from Rabbi David Nie- all communities in New York.” Michael Miller, Maccabeats, derman. Following the march, New Devorah Halberstam, Jona- continued on page 12 Briarcliff Congregation Rallies to Support Monsey

Big Game Season Favorites Menu Community Two salad selections, pickle bowl & condiments included Briarcliff’s Congregation Sons of Israel members Giant Hero ...... $14.99 pp braved the rain soaked night and rallied a huge crowd on Sunday, December 29, 2019, to light the final candle The Cold Cut Classic ...... $14.99 pp for the 8th night of Chanukah to show support for the Over-Stuffed Sandwiches ...... $14.99 pp Jewish community in Monsey in the aftermath of the Grilled Chicken Breast Hero ...... $15.99 pp brutal stabbings that occurred there Saturday night. Assorted Wraps Platter ...... $14.99 pp Cantor Jeffrey Shiovitz presided over the rally and candle lighting and gave inspiring comments. “It is difficult DELIVERY ARRANGED ADD: Hot or BBQ Wings ...... $8.99 lb to find the words to combat what we are feeling tonight in the aftermath of the attack that occurred in Monsey. In the face of unthinkable violence, growing anti-Semitism and RESTAURANT racism, it is understandable how we can turn to despair DELICATESSEN and hopelessness. And yet the antidote to these responses, Parties to the powerlessness so many of us feel right now, is to real- Welcome BAR•CATERERS ize that we do have power. Catering Hotline: 1-800-344-BENS “Our power, as individuals and as a synagogue, is in standing up for what is right, regardless of

© 2020 Ronald M. Dragoon what is happening around us. We cannot tolerate. We must be strong and continue to attend services TV BensDeli.net • 914-468-BENS (2367) • We Are Kosher and programs and celebrate our thriving. As a synagogue, CSI is doing everything we can to make our 718 Central Park Avenue, Scarsdale, New York 10583 Available home here safe. On this last night of Chanukah we stand like the courageous Maccabees who faced tremendous adversity, yet did not let anyone stop them from celebrating their Judaism.” Westchester Jewish Life • January 2020 • Tevet-Shevat 5780 • Page 2 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Area Legislators Condemn Rockland County Attack

On December 29, 2019, “While we wait for all the facts nity share the pain of the Mon- with love and inclusion.” County Executive George Lat- to be investigated, we do not sey community following this After meeting with Rabbi imer stated that, “Westchester hesitate to categorically con- horrific act. The time for talk Rottenberg and his wife on County stands with the people of demn all acts of violence, ha- about anti-Semitic attacks is December 29, 2019, Governor Rockland County and condemns tred and bigotry wherever and over--this is a time for action.” Cuomo commented on the the horrific act of violence in whenever they occur. Governor Cuomo issued stabbing in Rockland County. Monsey. I have directed the “But we need to do more a joint statement with over “It is intolerant, it is ignorant, Westchester County Police Pa- than offer our condemnation 130 Faith Leaders and orga- but it is also illegal. And at the trol Units to conduct additional after the fact. We must work nizations from across New end of the day it’s not just about inspections of synagogues and proactively and with vigilance York State, condemning Anti- words, it’s about action. And we any other Jewish facilities within to protect one another and to Semitism in the wake of the have seen enough in New York. our jurisdiction. We must come combat the rising tide of vio- attack in Rockland County. “This is violence spurred together and protect and sup- lence and intolerance plaguing With Timothy Cardinal Dolan, by hate, it is mass violence and port our neighbors. We pray for our nation and the world. Archbishop of New York, UJA I consider this an act of do- the victims and pray that unity “We thank County Execu- Federation of New York, Amer- mestic terrorism. Let’s call it and tolerance prevails.” tive George Latimer for direct- ican Jewish Committee NY and what it is. These people are do- In addition, members ing the County Police to offer Westchester Jewish Council mestic terrorists and the law L to R in background behind U.S. Senator Kristen Gillibrand; Thomas Walsh, of the Westchester County additional protection to the supporting the statement, it should reflect that and they District Attorney-Elect; Rockland County Legislator Phil Soskin; Congressman Board of Legislators noted that County’s synagogues and other reads: “Anti-Semitism, bigotry should be punished as if it was Eliot Engel; Ramapo Town Supervisor Michael Specht; NYS Assemblywoman they deplore the attack on the Jewish facilities, and we will and hate of any kind are repug- an act of terrorism.” Ellen Jaffee; Ramapo Police Chief Brad Weidel night of December 28, 2019, at continue to work with the ad- nant to our values and will not On December 30, 2019, the home of Rabbi Chaim Rot- ministration and the County’s mont, Mamaroneck, New Ro- cussion to investigate strength- be tolerated in our state. We U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand tenberg in Monsey and offer Human Rights Commission to chelle, Rye) said, “The Board ening our definitions of hate condemn this attack and all hosted a roundtable at Ramapo strong support to the victims, face the scourge of bias, dis- of Legislators is committed to crimes and hate incidents as attacks against members of Town Hall in Rockland County their families and Congrega- crimination and related vio- seeing that our laws provide New York City has done, as soon the Jewish community in New and spoke out against anti- tion Netzach Yisroel. lence during this holy time of the highest level of protection as our new term begins.” York----an attack against one Semitism. She called for more Board Chairman Ben year and always.” to our residents. I have reached Orthodox Union Presi- of us is an attack against all of Federal Funding to protect Boykin (D- White Plains, Majority Leader Catherine out to our Chair of Legislation to dent Moishe Bane concurred. us. Together we will continue Nonprofits and to support the Scarsdale, Harrison) said, Parker (D - Harrison, Larch- ensure that we will take up dis- “All of us in the Jewish commu- fighting hate and intolerance Never Again Education Bill.

Westchester Jewish Life • January 2020 • Tevet-Shevat 5780 • Page 3 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Congressmembers Announce 50% Increase in Security Funding Following a rise in anti- ters which have increasingly and apply for funding. and pray in peace. That’s why Semitism and attacks on wor- been targets of terrorism. Ad- “We have all been horri- we fought to increase criti- shippers, U.S. Representatives ditionally, the Representatives fied by the anti-Semitic attacks cal funding for the Nonprofit Max Rose, Jerrold Nadler, will be coordinating efforts to over the past few weeks and Grant Security Program by 50 Yvette Clarke, Eliot Engel, assist those in the community the rising trend of terrorist percent to help protect and se- Hakeem Jeffries, Carolyn Ma- and will host grant workshops attacks on houses of worship,” cure these institutions. Addi- loney, Nita Lowey, Gregory throughout New York City in the Congressmembers said in tionally, in the coming months Meeks, Grace Meng, and Nydia the coming months to help a joint statement. “This can- our offices will be working Velázquez announced that high-risk nonprofit institu- not continue, because every- with organizations throughout as part of the federal Appro- tions learn about the program one should be able to worship continued on page 5 priations legislation passed in December 2019, Congress increased funding for the Non- Anti-Semitism Has a Corrosive Effect profit Security Grant Program to $90 million, a 50 percent increase from previous fund- at Colleges and Universities ing levels. The grants provide critical support help improve vulnerable, high-risk institu- cluding synagogues, mosques, security and safety at such tions throughout New York in- churches, and community cen- Mitchell D. Silber to Oversee Regional Security Professionals UJA-Federation of New bind this work into an effec- York (UJA) and the Jew- tive and efficient security ish Community Relations network. Silber will begin Council of New York (JCRC- on February 3, 2020. NY), in partnership with Silber most recently The Paul E. Singer Foun- co-founded the Guardian dation, Carolyn and Marc Group with former New Rowan, and several founda- York City Police Commis- tions, recently announced sioner Raymond Kelly, that Mitchell D. Silber has where he also served as been named the executive principal. His responsi- director of the Community bilities included analyzing Security Initiative, a new security threats and risks Millie Jasper position created as part of to Jewish communities in BY JONATHAN GREENBLATT, CEO AND is a critical issue and we at ADL for appropriate political expres- UJA and JCRC-NY’s $4 mil- Europe. He also served as NATIONAL DIRECTOR ADL have supported bipartisan ef- sion but also draws the line when Mitchell D.. Silber lion plan to help secure lo- the director of Intelligence forts to improve the federal tools such words are used to discrimi- cal Jewish institutions in Analysis for the New York Over the past few years, we to combat it for years. Today’s Ex- nate, harass and intimidatie. the New York region. D. Silber to our team. The safe- City Police Department, where have witnessed a stark erosion of ecutive Order reaffirms protec- The Executive Order is “The recent wave of anti- ty and security challenges fac- he managed and developed support and safety for Jewish stu- tion of Jews without infringing on similar to the Anti-Semitism Semitic crimes including the ing Jews and our communal in- the Intelligence Analysis Unit, dents on campus. First Amendment rights. These Awareness Act that had biparti- horrific attack in Monsey, New stitutions are unprecedented. Cyber Intelligence Unit, and This has led to incident are important steps forward. san support in House and Senate York during a Hanukkah cel- This new initiative will have Telephonic Analysis Unit. He after incident that shows how We also welcome this Ex- in 2016 and that ADL long has ebration, demonstrates the ur- the resources to provide pro- recently published “Terrorist anti-Semitism, often in the guise ecutive Order for confirming that supported. gent need for additional levels fessional guidance and train- Attacks Against Jewish Targets of BDS and other anti-Israel senti- the U.S. will adopt the Interna- We at ADL support biparti- of security for Jewish institu- ing to synagogues, schools, and in the West (2012-2019): The ment, has had a corrosive effect at tional Holocaust Remembrance san efforts to combat anti-Sem- tions,” said Eric S. Goldstein, other Jewish organizations in Atlantic Divide Between Euro- colleges and universities. Alliance (IHRA) working defini- itism on campus and in all plat- CEO of UJA-Federation of New order to best protect all who pean and American Attackers,” These incidents have been tion of anti-Semitism, which ADL forms, offline and online. York. enter our doors.” in West Point’s CTC Sentinel fueled by anti-Semitic activism has long supported. ADL’s resources to combat “With his extensive front- In the new role, Silber will publication. from both the left and right, rang- The IHRA definition will anti-Semitism on campus in- line expertise protecting Jew- lead a team of an additional The New York Jewish ing from white supremacist fliers be used by the Department of clude: ish communities, Mitchell D. five new security profession- community is home to ap- posted in dorms (ADL reports Education in reviewing potential • Think. Plan. Act., which Silber is uniquely qualified to als to help provide the highest proximately 1.5 million Jews that such incidents are up for the violations of Title VI of the Civil gives students the tools to re- lead this team and work with level of protection to Jewish and 2,000 Jewish institutions third consecutive year), to faculty Rights Act of 1964, to consider as spond to anti-Semitic and anti- Jewish institutions and city, institutions in New York City, including synagogues, schools, who deny recommendations to part of its assessment of whether Israel incidents. state, and federal law enforce- Westchester, and Long Island. camps, and other Jewish fa- Jewish students to study abroad an incident or activity may be • Hate/Uncycled, our guide ment agencies to address the This will include developing cilities. In September 2019, when the country they wish to anti-Semitic. for college and university admin- threats facing New York’s Jew- the infrastructure to support UJA and JCRC-NY announced study in is Israel. That definition states: istrators and law enforcement ish community.” and train professionals in syn- the $4 million investment to In this climate of rising “Antisemitism is a certain teams. “JCRC-NY is deeply grate- agogues, Jewish community enhance the physical security anti-Semitism, the new Executive perception of Jews, which may be These resources provide ful to be partnering with UJA- centers, and schools. Silber of these facilities. The plan was Order being issued December 11, expressed as hatred toward Jews. critical support for Jewish stu- Federation in this critical ex- will work closely with JCRC- developed in consultation with 2019, by the Trump Administra- Rhetorical and physical manifes- dents. pansion of JCRC-NY’s security NY’s David Pollock to lead a security experts and other large tion, provides valuable guidance, tations of antisemitism are direct- ADL also responds to re- offerings,” said Michael Miller, team to guide institutions to Jewish communities in the giving law enforcement and cam- ed toward Jewish or non-Jewish ports of anti-Semitism through executive vice president and enhance their security, access United States. UJA has worked pus officials an important ad- individuals and/or their property, each of our 25 regional offices CEO of JCRC-NY. “We conduct- government security funding, for many years, primarily with ditional tool to help identify and toward Jewish community insti- across the U.S. If you witness an ed a nationwide search and are and build an enhanced com- JCRC-NY, to help secure Jewish fight this pernicious hate. tutions and religious facilities.” incident of anti-Semitism, take fortunate to welcome Mitchell munications system that will institutions in New York. Anti-Semitism on campus The IHRA definition allows action by reporting it to us online. Westchester Jewish Life • January 2020 • Tevet-Shevat 5780 • Page 4 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Lowey, Ramapo Leaders, and AJC CEO Safekeeping Stories of the Holocaust

The Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center Harris Honor Josef Gluck {HHREC} has announced the start of new workshops designed Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY17/Rockland- specifically for family members of Holocaust survivors called Westchester), Chairwoman of the House Appropriations Safekeeping Stories of the Holocaust. The workshop will teach Committee, joined Michael Specht, Town of Ramapo Su- the Fundamentals of Storykeeping and capture your family’s pervisor, and American Jewish Committee’s (AJC) chief Holocaust story in five to six parts that include events before, executive, David Harris, to honor Josef Gluck for his brav- during, and after the war, as well as your own next-generation ery and quick response during late December’s evening’s reflections and insights. attack in Monsey at the home of Rabbi Chaim Leibowitz For the past several years, this workshop has had a pro- Rottenberg. found impact on the lives of family members of survivors Josef Gluck was at the Hanukkah party when a man throughout Westchester. Small groups ensure that partici- entered wielding a machete. After attempting to move pants will be able to ask questions. The 8 session workshops people towards the back of the house away from the at- are offered in Larchmont at 4 Gilder Street, suite 4, starting on tacker, Gluck threw a coffee table to end the heinous stab- February 5 at 1pm. In Harrison, the workshop will take place at bing. As the attacker left, Gluck followed him outside and The Jewish Community Center of Harrison, 130 Union Avenue, took down his license plate. Gluck is likely the reason the starting on January 28 at 7:30pm. The Northern Westchester suspect of Saturday night’s attack was caught so quickly. location is Bet Torah, 60 Smith Avenue, Mr. Kisco, starting Feb- “Thank you, Josef,” said Congresswoman Lowey. “Without you, we would have never caught ruary 5 at 7pm. him as quickly as we did. What New York is experiencing can only be called an epidemic. In the Basic computer literacy is required in order to access ma- past year, anti-Semitic crimes in New York City have increased by 21 percent. The attack here in our terials from the HHREC website at home. Expect to spend 60- Millie Jasper backyard was the 13th anti-Semitic crime in the New York City area just last week. We must seek 90 minutes between sessions working at home. long-term solutions to this age-old problem.” The instructor, Jill Sarkozi, will give some guidance regarding historical research, but research is “The Town of Ramapo is honored to have Congresswoman Lowey join us in support of our com- not the focus of this workshop and is conducted independently at your discretion. munity, to oppose anti-Semitism and to honor Joseph Gluck, our American hero, on his bravery,” 2020 is the 75th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau. Mark this moment in his- said Michael Specht, Town of Ramapo Supervisor. tory by safekeeping your family member’s story of survival. “These workshops have been extremely “I’m honored to join Congresswoman Nita Lowey today in paying tribute to Josef Gluck, who helpful to our organization. I’m grateful to Jill and Safekeeping Stories for helping the Holocaust and exemplified such heroism in the face of the horrific antisemitic attack in Monsey on December 28,” Human Rights Education Center continue its mission,” explained Millie Jasper, Executive Director of said American Jewish Committee CEO David Harris. “In the face of a veritable epidemic of antise- The Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center. mitic assaults, all people of goodwill must stand together to affirm our shoulder-to-shoulder solidar- Workshop registration includes a free membership to the Holocaust and Human Rights Educa- ity and shared common destiny.” tion Center with benefits at the Household level of $100.for all registrations. Lowey is the co-chair of the House Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Anti-Semitism. The For questions about the workshops email Jill Sarkozi at [email protected]. To register Task Force is made up of 176 members of Congress who come from across the country, from all re- for the worshop, call HHREC at 696-0738. ligions, and from both sides of the aisle. Since 2015, the Task Force has worked to ensure that Con- gress plays an integral role in condemning and spearheading initiatives to combat anti-Semitism, both domestically and abroad. Additionally, as Chairwoman of the House Appropriations Committee, Lowey led the Congress in increasing vital security funding. In 2018, she established a nonprofit security grant program for those outside of UASI regions, and in the most recent federal spending package, she successfully increased funding for that program by 300 percent from $10 million to $40 million. That federal spending agreement also included $10 million to reestablish the Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention Grants program at DHS and an additional $7.5 million to fund the grants. “I condemn in the strongest words the anti-Semitic attack at Rabbi Rottenberg’s home,” said Congresswoman Lowey. “I continue to keep the victims of the attack and their families in my prayers.” Congressmembers Announce 50% Increase in Security Funding continued from page 4 New York City and the entire the anti-Semitic mass-shoot- both through our educational metropolitan area to ensure ing in Jersey City, and a spate curriculum and our exhibition, those in the community have of anti-Semitic attacks on Auschwitz. Not long ago. Not far all the federal grant funding, Jews throughout New York away. With antisemitic violence resources and tools they need City during Hanukkah that on the rise, we are profoundly at their fingertips. Because we are being investigated as hate grateful to all those who have all must work together to not crimes. demonstrated a desire to learn only educate and eradicate “We thank New York’s from the past in order to meet hate, but to leave no stone un- Congressional delegation this current moment with the turned in our efforts to ensure for their swift response of knowledge, courage, and re- safety and security in our com- public resources to combat solve it requires.” munities.” antisemitism,” said Jack FBI hate crime statistics The January 2, 2020, Kliger, President and CEO, show that incidents at religious press conference at the Muse- Museum of Jewish Heritage institutions like synagogues, um of Jewish Heritage – A Liv- – A Living Memorial to the churches, mosques and temples ing Memorial to the Holocaust Holocaust. “We condemn increased 34.8% between 2014 in NYC, follows a rising trend the recent heinous acts of and 2018, the last year for which of both anti-Semitism and ter- hate in Monsey and New FBI data is available. The Anti- rorist attacks on religious in- York City, and our heartfelt Defamation League’s 2018 Audit stitutions. In December, Jew- support goes out to the peo- of Anti-Semitic Incidents in New ish worshipers were attacked ple and communities who York, released earlier this year, during a Hanukkah celebra- have been harmed. The Mu- showed a 55 percent increase in tion in Monsey, New York and seum remains committed to Anti-Semitic Assaults in 2018, a gunman fired on worshipers educating people about the all of which occurred in New at a Texas church. This follows dangers of what hate can do, York City. Westchester Jewish Life • January 2020 • Tevet-Shevat 5780 • Page 5 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com january 19 january 30

On January 19, 2020 at 2pm and 6pm, the National Yiddish Theatre Folksbiene pres- On January 30, at 8pm, The Limon Dance Company will perform in the Pepsi- ents a MLK Jr. Day Concert in Yiddish and English, directed by Zalmen Mlotek, at The Co Theatre, SUNY Purchase, 735 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase. Call 251-6200 Museum of Jewish Heritage-A living Memorial to the Holocaust, 36 Battery Place, NYC. for tickets.- For tickets call 866-811-4111 or visit NYTF.org january calendar

9th floor, NYC. Visit newyid- turing Elyssa Freedland, author munity for Humanistic Juda- Jan. 18 Orchestra, Marin Alsop conduct- UPCOMING dishrep.org to learn more. of The Floating Feldman’s.-Call ism will conduct a Tu Bi’Shevat At 2pm, The Westchester Com- ing Brahms, in Alice Tully Hall, A new course called Genesis: 472-3300 for details. humanistic style Seder at Com- munity for Humanistic Judaism 1941 Broadway, NYC. For tickets Back to the Garden will be The Westchester County munity Unitarian Universalist will feature local Tarot enthusiast call 212-721-6500. taught by Rabbi Molly Karp Health Department is offering The Chabad of the Rivertowns Congregation, 468 Rosedale Stav Appel discussing the art, on 10 Wednesday mornings Free Flu vaccines by appoint- announces a new class called Avenue, White Plains. Visit imagery and symbolism of Tarot January 26 in New Rochelle. To enroll or ment on January 14, from 9am- Judaism’s Gifts to the World: wchj.org or call 218-8535 to de Marseilles at The Community At 9:45am, The Chabad of the Ri- for questions write rabbimol- 4pm and January 21 from How Major Jewish Ideas RSVP. Unitarian Universalist Congrega- vertowns presents Spa for the Soul [email protected] 11am to 6pm for those without Evolved, on 6 Mondays begin- tion, 468 Rosedale Avenue, White which includes a spa hour, ven- insurance or whose insurance ning February 3 at 10am or at Save the date—On March 5, Plains. For more information call dors, speaker Dina Hurwitz and The Greenburgh Hebrew Cen- doesn’t cover vaccines at The 8pm at Chabad Center, 303 UJA Federation of New York Charlotte Klein at 218-8535. a gourmet lunch at HUDCO, 145 ter, 515 Broadway, Dobbs Fer- Westchester County Clinic, Broadway, Dobbs Ferry. For holds their Westchester Cel- Palisade Street, Dobbs Ferry. RSVP ry, is hosting a Blood Drive on 134 Court Street, White Plains. more information or to sign up, ebration 2020 at The Capitol January 19 to chabadrt.org/Spaforthesoul February 2 for people 16 years Register online at health. call 693-6100. Theatre, 149 Westchester Av- At 1:30pm, The Hudson River Mu- old and over, to benefit the ny.gov/gotoclinic/60 enue, Port Chester, at 6:30pm., seum, 511 Warburton Avenue, Jan 26 New York Blood Center. Do- The Jewish Museum, 1109 honoring Rikki and Barry Ka- Yonkers, holds a Family Fun Day At 7pm, Westchester Torah Acad- nors are encouraged to make Ronald Dahl’s Matilda the Mu- Fifth Avenue at 92nd Street, plan and Allison and Ben Fried- with an interactive gallery pro- emy will hold its Shomrei Torah an appointment by emailing sical, will be performed by The NYC, will hold the following: On land. RSVP to 385-2108 gram for ages 3 and up to create Annual Dinner at 295 Soundview [email protected]. Walk Little Radical Theatrics Group, January 23, Comedian and ac- a mixed media urban landscape. Avenue, White Plains, honoring ins are also welcomed. For ad- January 17 at 7pm, January 18 tress Rachel Feinstein will per- To learn more, visit hrm.org. Dr. Brian Kalb, Diane Tavenner ditional information or ques- at 2pm and 7:30pm and Janu- form at 6:30pm; On February JANUARY and Kim and Jeff Siegel. For de- tions call 693-4260. ary 19 at 2pm, in the Joan T. 13, Artist Rachel Feinstein will Jan. 15 January 20 tails go to westchesrta.org Pincus Theater at the Grinton speak on her exhibition, Maid- At 10:45am, Chabad of the Ri- For teen’s grades 8-12, from 10am J-Kids, a group of Jewish and Will Library, 1500 Central Park en, Mother, Crone and sign vertowns will feature Nomi Free- to 1pm, a Martin Luther King Day January 27 interfaith families with children Avenue, Yonkers. For tickets books at 6:30pm; On February man speaking on Inviting Joy of Service, a volunteer event sort- From 10am to 6pm, The Muse- ages 2-5 meets one Sunday call 800-838-3006. 6,13,20 at 5:30pm, artist Kristen into Your Life. Then, at 8pm, she ing children’s books is organized um of Jewish Heritage—A Living morning each month at 10am, Jensen leads a sculpture work- will speak on Life after Life at 303 by J Teen Leadership and the Afya Memorial to the Holocaust, 36 for creative and social activi- A course in Jewish Literature shop. RSVP for these programs Broadway, Dobbs Ferry. To at- Foundation, held at Westchester Battery Place, NYC, will mark the ties at First Hebrew, 1821 Main focusing on the short story by calling 212-423-3200 or go tend call 693-6100. Reform Temple, 255 Mamaroneck 75th anniversary of the Libera- Street, Peekskill. RSVP required will begin January 13 at 10am to TheJewishMuseum.org. Road, Scarsdale. Register at ujafed- tion of Auschwitz on Internation- at 739-0500 and continue for 10 Mondays January 16 ny.org/volunteer-opportunity/ al Holocaust Remembrance Day, at Beth El Synagogue Center, Save the date—On February UJA Federation in Westchester donating-and sorting-childrens- with public candle lighting. Call The JCC of Mid Westchester, 1324 North Avenue, New Ro- 1, 2020, Westchester Jew- presents a program on Kabbalah books-18 or call 385-2130 212-213-2120 with questions. 999 Wilmot Road, Scarsdale, chelle, taught by Dr. Eleanor ish Council will celebrate called Happiness is a State of will offer Winter and Spring Ehrenkranz. Go to bethelNR. their 44th Anniversary Gala at Mind at 10:30 am. Register at January 22 January 30 classes for SAT and ACT ex- org/stories to register. Temple Israel Center of White ujafedny.org/nw-kabbalah-event At 7pm, UJA Federation West- UJA Federation of Westchester ams. Visit jccmw.org/teens/ac- Plains, 280 Old Mamaroneck for location. chester hosts Guys’ Night Out at presents NEXTERS: Art Lecture, ademic-center-college-prep/ The JCC of Mid Westchester, Road, at 7:15pm, honoring Da- Westchester Table Tennis Cen- Exploring Marvelous Innovations for times and dates. 999 Wilmot Road, Scarsdale vid A. Alpert, Arlene Kleinberg, January 17 ter, 175 Tompkins Avenue, Pleas- as Expressions of Power and presents the following: Janu- Saul Singer, Daniel Singer and At 6pm, The Coalition for Mutual antville. Registration required at Status at The JCC of Mid West- The New Yiddish Rep will per- ary 20, MLK Jr. Day of Service David Singer, with entertain- Respect will host the Dr. Martin ujafedny.org/guys-night-out or chester, 999 Wilmot Road, Scars- form a Yiddish version of The from 10am-noon with volun- ment by Cory Kahaney. Call Luther King Jr. Dinner and Ser- contact 385-2122. dale with historian Page Knox. Labor of Life at 7:30pm on Jan- teers donating and sorting 328-7001 for tickets. vice at Temple Israel of New Ro- Register to ujafedny.org/nexters- uary 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26 at The children’s books.; February 6 chelle, 1000 Pinebrook Blvd. For January 25 making-marvels. For details call Cyrus and Rose Feldman Stu- at noon, Lunch and Laugh, the Save the date -- On February 9 tickets go to tinr.org/event or call At 7:30pm, soloist Daniel Hass 385-2125 dio Theater, 315 W. 39th Street, 4th annual women’s event fea- at 2pm, the Westchester Com- 235-1800. will be featured with the Juilliard Westchester Jewish Life • January 2020 • Tevet-Shevat 5780 • Page 6 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com DREAM IT. DO IT. MAKE TIME FOR GOOD. MLK DAY OF SERVICE 1.20.20

This MLK Day, help transform Dr. King’s dream into reality.

Join more than 5,000 volunteers across the New York area as we combat food insecurity, prepare supplies for disaster relief, collaborate on interfaith projects, and so much more.

So, sign up! Make time for good this MLK Day. Make it count. And make it memorable. ujafedny.org/mlk #TimeForGood

Westchester Jewish Life • January 2020 • Tevet-Shevat 5780 • Page 7 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com AMCHA Discovers Violations to the Title Vl Higher Education Opportunity Act Noting that directors and sponsor such events,” added faculty of an NRC to imple- law, the organizations called an academic boycott of any of affiliated faculty at federally- the groups. ment an academic boycott of on the Department of Educa- the countries within the pur- funded Middle East Studies Department of Educa- Israel or any other country tion to take action now until view of their program in such programs who support an aca- tion-designated Middle East within their center’s purview, Congress can permanently a way as to restrict or limit demic boycott of Israel have Studies NRCs receive millions it would explicitly contravene fix this problem. Specifically, the academic opportunities of attempted to implement that of taxpayer dollars to promote the purposes of Title VI and they asked DeVos to: their students or colleagues. boycott in ways that directly access to research and training the will of Congress. It is un- Issue a statement warn- AMCHA monitors more violate the legislative intent overseas, including through acceptable that federal funds ing NRC directors and affili- than 400 college campuses of Title VI of the Higher Edu- linkages with overseas institu- could be used to implement ated faculty that implementing across the U.S. for anti-Semitic cation Opportunity Act, 88 tions. They were established an academic boycott that di- an academic boycott of one of activity. The organization has education, civil rights and re- by Title VI of the Higher Edu- rectly contravenes the pur- the countries in the NRC’s pur- recorded more than 3,000 an- ligious organizations called on cation Act in order to equip poses for which these funds view would be a direct subver- ti-Semitic incidents on college U.S. Department of Education university students and fac- have been granted. Area stud- sion of the stated purpose of campuses since 2015. They Secretary Betsy DeVos to pre- ulty with a full and unbiased ies programs whose directors Title VI funding. provide a daily Anti-Semitism vent this abuse on December understanding of regions and or affiliated faculty engage in Require area studies pro- Tracker, organized by state 4, 2019. countries vital to U.S. security. such behavior should be in- gram directors applying for or and university. “Recent incidents have In stark contrast, note the eligible to receive or renew renewing NRC or FLAS fund- AMCHA Initiative is a demonstrated the willingness groups in their letter, an aca- Title VI funding,” added the ing to sign a statement affirm- non-partisan, non-profit orga- of faculty across the country to Tammi Rossman Benjamin demic boycott calls for cutting groups. ing that neither they nor any of nization dedicated to combat- implement the academic boy- off linkages with educational Noting the failure of a re- their program’s affiliated facul- ing anti-Semitism at colleges cott of Israel on their campus- for an academic boycott of institutions in the boycotted cent legislative attempt to ad- ty will, as part of their academ- and universities in the United es. Last September, a Univer- Israel or engaged in boycott- country and unavoidably im- dress this loophole in federal ic responsibilities, implement States. sity of Michigan professor who compliant behavior, including pairs the ability of students supports the academic boycott attempts to shut down their to travel to or study about the of Israel refused to write a let- universities’ study abroad pro- country or its language, and UJA Federation Westchester Volunteers ter of recommendation for a grams in Israel, as have these the ability of faculty to write, student wanting to study at centers’ affiliated faculty. teach, and pursue scholarly Tel Aviv University. In Novem- In fact, two events recently research in this region of the Make Holidays Brighter for Those in Need ber, the entire faculty body hosted by NRCs at the Uni- world. In particular, the aca- Over 250 UJA-Federa- at Pitzer College voted to sus- versity of Michigan and New demic boycott of Israel urges tion of New York Westchester pend the school’s study abroad York University each defended faculty to work towards shut- volunteers from across the program at the University of the right of faculty to imple- ting down study abroad pro- county helped brighten the Haifa, in compliance with the ment an academic boycott of grams in Israel and refusing holidays for families facing academic boycott of Israel. Israel. Nor do these appear to write letters of recommen- food insecurity and local area And in March of this year, New to be isolated occurrences. A dation for students who want teens and seniors who are York University’s Department study of more than 100 Middle to study there; sabotaging col- residential clients at three of Social and Cultural Analysis East Studies programs across league’s research collabora- UJA nonprofit partners. The passed a resolution of non-co- the country, including all 15 tions with Israeli institutions celebrations, all part of UJA’s operation with the university’s NRCs, found that departments and scholars; and blocking or Gift of Hanukkah initiative, school in Israel,” wrote the with one or more faculty who canceling campus events and were held on Sunday, Decem- groups in the letter organized support an academic boycott educational activities that pro- ber 8, 2019. by AMCHA Initiative and sent of Israel were 5 times more mote the normalization of Is- Over 50 families gath- today. likely to sponsor events with rael in the global academy. ered to pack 200 holiday “It is of particular con- boycott-supporting speak- “While acknowledging baking kits, providing staple cern that more than half the ers than departments with no that a faculty member’s right items not typically found at a directors of currently Title to express support for an aca- faculty boycotters, and depart- food pantry, to be donated to (l-r) Kim Goldberg (Larchmont), Alana Pero (Armonk), Rikki Javitch (Harrison), VI-funded Middle East Stud- demic boycott of Israel is pro- ments with academic boycott- the clients of UJA nonprofit Amie Eglit (Harrison), Natasha Hanan (Chappaqua), Beth Altschuler (Scarsdale) ies National Resource Centers tected by academic freedom, supporting chairs or directors partner Metropolitan Coun- chaired the UJA Westchester Young Families Gift of Hanukkah celebration. (NRCs) have pledged support were 3.5 times more likely to were the director or affiliated cil on Jewish Poverty. The event, chaired by Beth Altschuler (Scarsdale), Amie Eglit (Harrison), Kim Goldberg (Larchmont), Natasha Hanan (Chappaqua), Rikki Javitch (Harrison) and Alana Pero (Armonk) is part of UJA West- chester Young Families initiative which brings together like-minded, philanthropic young families who, like UJA, are devoted to helping people in need. Collecting Holocaust Artifacts Residents of Kittay House, an independent senior living facility in the Bronx run by UJA nonprofit partner The New Jewish Home, enjoyed an afternoon of bingo, crafts and snacks. This event The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in D.C. is in a race against time to was chaired by Jill Goldfein, Audi Schub and Anya Wiebke, all residents of New Rochelle. “UJA’s Gift collect and preserve the evidence of the Holocaust before the last generation of Holocaust of Hanukkah program is one way that we do tikkun olam, to make the world a better place. That’s a survivors is no longer with us, and before fragile documents and artifacts disintegrate. big part of what we do.” said Schub. The Museum is calling on New Yorkers to donate artifacts during the week of Interna- Teens at the Edenwald Center in Pleasantville and the Sally and Anthony Mann Center in Haw- tional Holocaust Remembrance Day – marking the 75th anniversary of the liberation of thorne, run by UJA nonprofit partners JCCA and The Jewish Board of Family and Children’s Services Auschwitz. respectively, were visited by teens from J-Teen Leadership, a program of UJA-Federation. Together Individuals or families in New York that are interested in sharing their Holocaust col- the teens celebrated the holidays by painting faces and nails, applying temporary tattoos, decorating lections, such as photographs, documents, letters, and other artifacts that document their cookies and playing bingo and dreidel games. J-Teen Leadership volunteers Eli Makaron (Briarcliff Holocaust experiences with the Museum may contact Fred Wasserman, the Museum’s New Manor), Tyler Plank (Briarcliff Manor) and Jordan Rosen (Pleasantville) chaired the events. York Acquisitions Curator. He can be reached at [email protected] or 212.983.0825 to UJA-Federation supports a network of hundreds of nonprofit organizations, large and small. schedule an appointment at the Museum’s New York office during the week of International These nonprofits provide food for the hungry, shelter for the homeless, independence for the el- Holocaust Remembrance Day from January 27 – 29. derly, jobs for the unemployed, as well as stimulating education programs for people in New York, in Israel, and in nearly 70 countries. Westchester Jewish Life • January 2020 • Tevet-Shevat 5780 • Page 8 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com 7th Annual JNF Water and Wine Community Reception BY STEPHEN E. LIPKEN NY (www.skyviewwine.com). Welcoming JNF and the The Seventh Annual Jew- community, WRT Rabbi Jona- ish National Fund (JNF) Water than Blake began, “This week’s and Wine Community Recep- Torah parashah ‘Vayeitzei,’ (and tion was held at Westchester [Jacob] left) begins with Jacob Reform Temple, Scarsdale, on far from home, for the first Thursday, December 5th at- time in his life. Having no place tended by approximately 150 to sleep, he pulls he pulls out a citizens from Westchester and rock which becomes a pillow outlying communities, spon- where he lays his head. sored by Brenda, Michael Benn, “Jacob dreams of a ladder Rachel, Jason Halperin and with its foot in the earth and Ruth Raisfeld. rungs ascending to the heav- Keynote Speaker was ens, with messengers of G-d Israeli-American News 12 jour- going up and down the ladder… nalist and TV Host Michelle “Before Jacob went to Divon. A special treat was an sleep, he saw it as a barren des- All-Israel Wine Tasting event ert. When Jacob awakes, he In Israel, left to right: Hal Linden; Andrew Halperin, father of by Skyview Wines, Riverdale, says, ‘G-d is in this place.’ By the Jewish National Fund Water and Wine Event Co-Chair Jason Halperin. time he wakes up he real- izes he is on holy ground. He is transformed and the land transformed. JNF is Westchester Jewish Council Executive Director Elliot Forchheimer; Sharon in the businesses of trans- Lewis, Director, Jewish National Fund, Westchester and Southern Connectcut. forming the land and making dreams come true.” JNF Future member Mi- A JNF video delineated chael Mintz mentioned that “Nefesh B’ Nefesh,” an inde- JNF provided 900 homes pendent nonprofit organi- throughout the Negev, medical zation established in 2002 trauma centers, fire trucks to by Tony Gelbart and Rabbi smaller communities, bomb Yehoshua Fass in 2002 to re- shelters and infrared cameras invigorate Aliyah (immigra- to Sderot to help firefighters tion) from English-speaking rescue people in burning build- countries, facilitating the ings, ignited by rocket attacks. successful integration of It was especially noted olim (immigrants) to Israel, that JNF provided Sderot chil- plus high school Semester dren with a fortified bombproof Westchester Reform Temple Rabbi A large selection of Israeli wines was available for tasting at the Jewish Gary Wartels, owner, Skyview Wines and Abroad in Israel. underground playground. Jonathan Blake. National Fund Water and Wine Community Reception at Spirits, Riverdale Westchester Reform Temple, Scarsdale. 15 Foot Menorah Lights Up Mamaroneck On December 22, over “The menorah serves can make all the difference.” 200 residents of the Larch- as a symbol of Mamaroneck’s Today, the unprecedent- mont and Mamaroneck gath- dedication to preserve and en- ed public display of Hanukkah ered together on the corner courage the right and liberty has become a staple of Jew- of Mamaroneck Avenue and of all its citizens to worship ish cultural and religious life, Boston Post Road, Mama- G d freely, openly, and with forever altering the Ameri- roneck, to watch the first pride. This is true especially can practice and awareness light of Chanukah be kindled. in America, a nation that was of the festival. Mamaroneck The ceremony, organized by founded upon and vigorously and Larchmont have 4 public Chabad Rabbi Mendel Silber- protects the right of every menorahs erected. At the cor- stein, featured the lighting person to practice his or her ner of Boston Post Road and of the 15 foot high Menorah religion free from restraint Mamaroneck Avenue, at Shop with the aid of a fire truck. and persecution,” said Rabbi & Shop, at Constitution Park, Hanukkah “Gelt” or choco- Silberstein and the corner of Palmer Ave late coins dropped from the Attendees of the Me- and Weaver Street. These me- sky as an exciting LED Light norah Lighting felt pride in norahs are a few out of more Show took place. . Following their Jewish heritage. Many than 15,000 large public me- the ceremony, the crowd went brought their children along, norahs sponsored by Chabad into the new Chabad Center stating how important such in more than 100 countries on Mamaroneck Avenue and events are in their children’s around the world, including in enjoyed a delicious buffet of education. front of landmarks such as the traditional Hanukkah foods The Menorah lighting is of righteous memory, in 1973. miracle. it is always victorious over White House, the Eiffel Tower, including latkes and donuts, part of the worldwide Hanuk- The campaign highlights and “The message of Hanuk- darkness. A small amount of and the Kremlin, helping chil- while the children enjoyed kah campaign, an initiative encourages the central theme kah is the message of light,” light dispels a lot of darkness. dren and adults of all walks creating their very own Ha- launched by the Rebbe, Rabbi of the holiday — publicizing added Rabbi Silberstein. Another act of goodness and of life discover and enjoy the nukkah crafts. Menachem M. Schneerson, the story of the Hanukkah “The nature of light is that kindness, another act of light, holiday message. Westchester Jewish Life • January 2020 • Tevet-Shevat 5780 • Page 9 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com The 29th Annual New York Jewish Film Festival The Jewish Museum and Film at Lincoln Two documentaries receive their world Center will present the 29th annual New York premieres: Jewish Film Festival (NYJFF), January 15–28, Julia Mintz’s Four Winters: A Story of 2020. Among the oldest and most influential Jewish Partisan Resistance and Bravery in Jewish film festivals worldwide, NYJFF each WWII revisits the story of Jewish partisans year presents the finest documentary, narra- who took up arms against Hitler’s war ma- tive, and short films from around the world chine through interviews with the last living that explore the Jewish experience. Featuring partisans. new work by dynamic voices in international Brad Rothschild’s They Ain’t Ready for cinema as well as film revivals, the festival’s Me focuses on Tamar Manasseh, an African- 2020 lineup includes 30 wide-ranging and American rabbinical student who is combat- exciting features and shorts from the iconic ing gun violence on the South Side of Chicago to the iconoclastic, many of which will be with magnetic, self-assured energy through screening in their world, U.S., and New York her organization MASK (Mothers Against premieres. Screenings are held at the Wal- Senseless Killing). ter Reade Theater, 165 West 65th Street, New This year’s festival features an array of York City. enlightening and gripping documentaries. Dani Menkin’s documentary Aulcie is Highlights include: the Opening Night selection, screening in its Cordelia Dvorak’s Marceline. A Woman. New York premiere on Thursday, January 16. A Century, a moving portrait of the efferves- When a scout for the Israeli basketball team Aulcie, Israel, 2019. Photo courtesy Hey Jude Productions, 2019 cent and iconoclastic French director, author, Maccabi Tel Aviv spotted Aulcie Perry on Har- producer, and actress Marceline Loridan-Iv- lem’s Rucker Court in 1976, he recruited the the career of Marceline Loridan-Ivens, the The wealthy, intellectual Finzi-Contini fam- ens (New York Premiere). athlete to join their fledgling team. Less than French film director, author, producer, and ily’s estate serves as a gathering place for the Rachel Rusinek and Eyal Ben Moshe’s I a year later, Perry led the team to a win in the actress who died in 2018. The Birch Tree local Jewish community that tries to remain Was Not Born a Mistake, the story of Yiscah 1977 European Championship, a victory that Meadow (2003), starring Anouk Aimée and sheltered from the country’s growing anti- Smith, who lived as an ultra-orthodox mar- he repeated four years later. Aulcie delves August Diehl, is Loridan-Ivens’s autobio- Semitism. While romance unfolds behind the ried man with six children and deep ties in into the riveting story of this legendary play- graphical drama about an Auschwitz survivor tall, stone walls of the garden, an increasingly the Hasidic community before abruptly leav- er, who put Israeli basketball on the map, con- who returns to the camp to confront her past hostile reality sets in. ing Israel, only to return 20 years later as a verted to Judaism, became an Israeli citizen, and the young descendant of an SS guard she The NYJFF will present the World Pre- trans woman (U.S. Premiere). and overcame his demons. meets there. This screening is part of an an- miere of the new 35mm restoration of Charles Dalit Kimor’s Mrs. G, a portrait of the The Closing Night film is the New York nual initiative highlighting work by women Davenport’s long-lost 1919 silent film Broken Gottex swimwear empire and its larger-than- premiere of Dror Zahavi’s Crescendo. When a filmmakers that merit broader American rec- Barriers,the first film based on the Sholem life founder, Lea Gottlieb, legendary designer world-famous conductor (played by Toni Erd- ognition. Aleichem stories that inspired Fiddler on and Holocaust survivor (New York Premiere). mann’s Peter Simonischek) accepts the job to The 2020 NYJFF marks the 50th anniver- the Roof. This story is uniquely told from the Tickets may be purchased online or in create an Israeli-Palestinian youth orchestra, sary of legendary director Vittorio De Sica’s perspective of Khavah, Tevye the milkman’s person at FLC’s Walter Reade Theater and he steps into a firestorm of conflict and mis- Academy Award–winning The Garden of the daughter, who falls in love with the gentile Elinor Bunin Munroe Film Center box of- trust as he tries to bring the two factions of Finzi-Continis. This beloved Italian drama, boy Fedka and navigates the reverberations fices, 165 and 144 West 65th Street, NYC. For young musicians together in harmony. based on the classic novel by Giorgio Bassani, from her community and family. Donald So- complete festival information, visit NYJFF. The Centerpiece selection focuses on is set amidst the rise of Fascism in the 1930s. sin will provide live piano accompaniment. org.

Dressing Up the ArtsWestchester Building STAFF REPORT “The overarching goal is to involve bright colorful fabric, sewing individuals and groups in the mystery of machines, volunteers to pin and A monumental work of Public creation. Volunteerism of local citizens sew, and of course monetary do- Art has begun for 130 Mamaroneck and artists is a segue to creating famil- nations to match a state grant of Avenue, White Plains. As the offi- iarity in contemporary art as well as the 50K. cial County-designated arts council, individual nature of the neighborhood The outdoor textile-sculp- ArtsWestchester has commissioned itself,” Browder explains. ture at ArtsWestchester will be Brooklyn textile artist, Amanda She is known for her large scale accompanied by an indoor gal- Browder, to create a huge project installations on building exteriors and lery exhibition that spotlights with participatory community help. public sites. The artist received her B.A. the community’s participation Browder will design and fabricate a degree in studio arts and 2 masters de- in the making of the artwork. colorful, quilt-like textile sculpture grees in sculpture and installation art. The exhibition will feature photo draped from the top of ArtsWest- She is the recipient of grants from the and video documentation of the chester’s historic 9-story building in National Endowment for the Arts and project’s multiple stages, and downtown White Plains. The sculp- Transformation Fellowship from Uni- will present personal reflec- ture named Metropolis Sunrise, will versity of Nevada, Las Vegas. tions and oral histories of com- be on display for six weeks, beginning Describing her work, she notes, “I munity members as they explore May 2020. am in love with the transformative na- the meaning that textile arts have Browder’s installations bring ture of materials and how the combina- played in their lives. communities together at every level tion of the familiar creates abstract re- In the New Year, sewing days of their making. Fabric is donated by lationships about place.” will begin at 10am, January 26, local residents and constructed and Browder and her volunteer teams 2020 at ArtsWestchester. Oth- sewn by individuals, families, and will stitch together large panels that er locations will follow. Check community groups from the area. The resemble crazy quilts. For volunteers artsw.org/browder for public resulting work is a celebration of lo- looking to get involved in the project, sewing days and locations. cality, community, and sustainability. the artist is looking for donations of

Westchester Jewish Life • January 2020 • Tevet-Shevat 5780 • Page 10 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Michael Kaplowitz Named Deputy Commissioner of OPINION the Department of Environmental Facilities Siyum HaShas: Response to the Monsey Attack After a long and distinguished career serving the peo- BY RABBI BENJY SILVERMAN ple of Westchester, Westchester County Executive George Latimer has announced that another former Board Chair- In early January, Syna- man will be joining his administration. gogues (including ours) in- Legislator Michael Kaplowitz, who will serve as a creased security, politicians Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Environmen- condemned hatred, and Jew- tal Facilities, will use his financial and legal background to ish organizations organized a evaluate the financial and governance issues related to sew- solidarity march on January 5, er districts and the costs and benefits of consolidations. under the banner “No Hate. No Latimer said, “The challenges we are asking Mike to Fear. - it’s time for us to come take on now are very difficult but there is not a finer per- together and demonstrate our Left to right: McDonald, County Executive George Latimer son to take them on. His intellect, public commitment and collective resolve.” All of this and Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Environ- knowledge of the County make him perfectly prepared to was in response to the recent mental Facilities Michael Kaplowitz do this.” anti-Semitic attacks in Monsey “After 22 years of public service as a County Legislator, it was bittersweet to cast my last vote as my col- and New York City. leagues and I passed the 2020 Budget. I am proud of the work I’ve done on behalf of the residents of this great While these are neces- County, and I look forward to continuing to serve Westchester in my new role. I’m excited about the challenge sary and important responses, to find cost savings and consolidation efficiencies within the Department of Environmental Facilities. I want to the most powerful response to thank County Executive George Latimer, my long-time mentor, for this opportunity,” Kaplowitz said. anti-Semitism this first week in What does Torah study probably the largest celebra- Department of Environmental Facilities Commissioner Vincent Kopicki noted, “It was always a pleasure January, was the one that wasn’t have to do with anti-Semitism? tion of the Talmud EVER! to work with Legislator Kaplowitz at the Board of Legislators and now I look forward to working with him in his even intended as a response. Absolutely nothing! And Thousands of Jews march- new role on our team at DEF.” On Wednesday, January this is precisely why Jacob ing across the Brooklyn Bridge Kaplowitz has represented the 4th District (Yorktown, New Castle and Somers) since 1998 and has previ- 1st, 90,000 Jews filled MetLife opened a Yeshiva first; Jacob to “demonstrate our collective ously served as Vice-Chairman of the Board. On January 6th, 2014, he was elected as Chairman of the Board. stadium. They united to cel- didn’t want anti-Semitism resolve” is great and sends a Further, Kaplowitz’s education and expertise as an attorney and certified financial planner led to his ap- ebrate the completion of a to define the Jew or the Jew- message to our haters, but the pointment as Chair of the Budget & Appropriations Committee in 2003. Kaplowitz is a long-time environmental- seven-year cycle of studying ish agenda. If being Jewish is Talmud celebration sends a ist and is also a past Chair of the Westchester County Legislature’s Environment & Energy Committee. the 2,711 pages of the Talmud. about living Jewishly through far more important message. Kaplowitz has a long history of involvement in a wide variety of community and civic organizations, includ- While it had nothing to do with the study of Torah and perfor- Despite all the attacks and ha- ing the Volunteer Center, the March of Dimes Walk America, the American Red Cross and the Partnership Fund anti-Semitism, this event was mance of Mitzvot, then this tred, Jewish life and Judaism for Aging Services. the greatest possible response must remain our focus even are more vibrant and alive than Kaplowitz and his wife Jayne live in Somers and have two adult daughters. to anti-Semitism. in Egypt and even with Anti- ever. We are not going away and In the January 4 Parsha, Semitism, otherwise we grant we are not backing down. On Both National Defense Authorization Act and End-Of- Vayigash, we read about Jacob the anti-Semite success. the contrary, with every attack, and his family relocating to This is why the Talmud we redouble our effort to build Year Appropriations Package Authorize and Fund Criti- Egypt. The Torah begins this celebration was such a power- an even more thriving Jewish new episode in Jewish history ful response to anti-Semitism. future. cal Israeli Security Systems by saying “And he sent Judah It had nothing to do with anti- With their interpretation ahead”. The Sages explain that Semitism, it was about being on the January 4 Parsha, the U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Judah was sent ahead to estab- Jewish! Sages are reminding us that Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Ranking Member of the Senate Armed lish and prepare a Yeshiva, a Participating in the cele- we should not allow anti-Sem- Services Personnel Subcommittee, announced on December 20, house of study. bration at MetLife were a num- itism to define us and that the 2019, that following their push, the U.S.–Israeli Cooperative Mis- Jacob knew that the Jew- ber of Holocaust survivors. Hit- most important and powerful sile Defense Program will receive $500 million in federal funds. ish people would encounter ler tried to destroy them along response to anti-Semitism is The FY 2020 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), which horrible anti-Semitism while in with all of Judaism. Yet, here to become a “stronger” Jew by passed earlier in December, authorizes full funding for the de- Egypt and he prepared by open- they were, seventy-five years increasing our Jewish knowl- velopment of the Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow 3 weapon ing a house of Torah study. later, participating in what was edge and Jewish involvement. systems; and the end-of-year appropriations bill, which passed yesterday, includes $500 million for these programs. The U.S.–Is- raeli Cooperative Missile Defense Program is a multi-tiered defense system capable of countering a wide range of threats from state and non-state actors. Gillibrand and Schumer have long led Senator Charles E. Schumer the push in the Senate to secure authorization and funding for this program. “Israel is a staunch and steady ally and we must work with our ally to ensure it has the means to sufficiently defend itself from deadly terrorist rocket attacks aimed at Israeli civilians,” said Senator Schumer. “I am proud to play a leading role in our ongoing support for Israel’s critical self-defense systems, including the vital and successful Iron Dome anti-missile system. These bills provide $500 million in federal funds to the U.S.–Israeli missile defense programs, including the Iron Dome, Da- vid’s Sling, and Arrow 3 systems. This massive investment is vital to the safety and security of Israel and will help save countless lives in the future.” “At a time of great instability in the Middle East, this funding is critical for the safety and protection of Israel, our closest ally in the region. These missile defense programs have helped keep civilians in Israel safe from missile attacks numerous times,” said Senator Gillibrand, Ranking Member of the Senate Armed Services Personnel Committee. “I’m proud to lead the push in the Senate for this funding every year, and I’m please it has been included in the final NDAA and end-of-year appropriations package. This will help Israel protect its people and keep stability in the region.” Schumer and Gillibrand have long supported funding for the U.S.–Israeli Missile Defense Pro- gram. For years, Gillibrand has led a bipartisan letter to the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense in support of this funding, and in April, led a bipartisan letter to the Senate Appropria- tions Subcommittee on Defense signed by 39 Senators. Last year, Schumer and Gillibrand successfully fought to include more than $700 million in funds for the defense programs. Westchester Jewish Life • January 2020 • Tevet-Shevat 5780 • Page 11 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Danielle Kohn Appointed as Youth Youth Mental Health Challenges Can- Poet Laureate not Be Ignored In an effort to further promote lit- 2017. support them. eracy, County Executive George Latimer Youth Mental Health Since 2013, WJCS, one and Executive Director of the Westchester First Aid® (YMHFA) is a pow- of the largest human ser- County Youth Bureau Dr. DaMia Harris- erful and impactful initiative vice agencies in Westchester Madden, appointed Westchester County’s that was developed in or- County, has trained nearly first Youth Poet Laureate. der to address these serious 1,700 participants in Youth In this new position, Danielle Kohn, mental health challenges. Mental Health First Aid®. a junior at Scarsdale High School, will It is an 8-hour, nationally School personnel, first re- work with the Westchester County Youth recognized, evidence-based sponders, youth group lead- Bureau to increase appreciation for read- course geared for adults who ers, coaches, and parents ing and writing amongst her peers in col- work with and are connected have been among our par- laboration with local libraries, schools and to youth, including teachers, ticipants and have had an youth development programs. school and camp staff, coach- overwhelmingly positive Latimer said, “It’s essential that we BY PAULA SANTA-DONATO, LCSW, DIRECTOR es, youth group leaders, par- response to the training. I help our youth develop the skills and desire OF YOUTH SERVICES AT WJCS ents, and first responders. have personally witnessed to read. Appointing a Youth Poet Laureate The training teaches partici- how transformative it can is another innovative way we can engage Whether we are par- pants to recognize the warn- be for participants as they our youth and spark interest around lit- Left to right: County Executive George Latimer, Danielle Kohn and ents, teachers, sports coach- ing signs of mental health engage in role playing, in- eracy. I applaud Dr. DaMia Harris-Madden Dr. DaMia Harris-Madden es, or work in youth-serving problems and substance use teractive activities, open for her efforts in developing this initiative.” or community organizations, disorders in adolescents. It conversation, and become “The work of the Youth Poet Laureate will distinguish Westchester County as a national example of com- all of us need to be concerned provides them with guidance empowered to help youth in munity that celebrates and promotes artistic excellence through youth voice and civic engagement,” Harris- about the alarmingly high about how to listen non- crisis. Just as we all need to Madden added. rates of mental health chal- judgmentally, give reassur- keep a first aid kit at home, Kohn, who has been writing poetry since she was in second grade, currently brings her poetry to hospitals, lenges experienced by our ance and information, and those of us working and liv- nursing homes and drug treatment centers across Westchester County. She has studied at Sarah Lawrence Col- youth. One in five American encourage finding appropri- ing with children need to be lege, Stony Brook University, the University of Virginia and the Writopia Lab and has received multiple Scholastic children ages three through ate professional help. It also armed with knowledge about Gold Medals for her work. 17 have anxiety, depression, offers guidance about self- mental health and strategies “I’d like to thank County Executive George Latimer for creating the Youth Poet Laureate position. In doing eating disorders, Attention help techniques and mental for handling signs of mental so, he is acknowledging that the arts are important in Westchester, and that young people have a place in the Deficit Hyperactivity Dis- health support services. health challenges in youth. arts,” Kohn said. order (ADHD), or another As a certified YMHFA Let’s end the stigma and mental health or behavioral trainer at WJCS-Westchester the skyrocketing numbers disorder, according to the Jewish Community Services, of mental health tragedies Centers for Disease Control. I am passionate about offer- among youth. We have the Eighty percent of these chil- ing this training. It is an ef- tools to do it. dren do not receive treat- fective tool that can increase To learn about arrang- ment. Statistics about the awareness regarding mental ing a WJCS Youth Mental number of children dying by health challenges that our Health First Aid® training, suicide are tragic, frighten- youth face, reduce the stig- call Paula Santa-Donato, ing, and skyrocketing. The matization of mental health LCSW, Director of Youth Ser- suicide rate for children be- in our communities, and en- vices at WJCS at (914) 761- tween the ages of 10 and 14 able individuals who are con- 0600, ext. 2322 or write her at tripled between 2007 and nected to youth to help and [email protected].

“NO HATE. NO FEAR.” March Crosses the Brooklyn Bridge continued from page 2 Governor Cuomo addressed those assembled and said, “I am heartened to see this amazing show of support and solidarity… “And while we’re here today in the spirit of solidarity and love, government must do more than just offer thoughts and prayers, government must act. This is illegal and it is government’s responsibility to protect the people of the State of New York and the State government will be doing just that. As soon as the Legislature comes back I’m going to propose a new law for the State of New York that calls this hate what it is - it is domestic terrorism. These are terrorists and they should be punished as such. We’re going to increase the State Police force and the Hate Crimes Task Force so we have more State Police in vulnerable communities. “We are going to work with schools all across the state to make sure our young people are edu- cated on our history and our diversity and the strength of that diversity. We’ll be working with faith leaders, because from every pulpit, every podium to every congregation in this state, we have to be condemning these acts. “And today the state is going to make an additional $45 million available to non-public schools and religious institutions for security. We also ask every New Yorker to be involved in this crusade today. And if any New Yorker has any information about a possible attack or an attack that has happened, we ask them to be active and to help us thwart these attacks. We have a 1-800 number - 1-877-NO-HATE-NY. If you have any information, we have that tip line open, let’s all stand together and united. “These acts of hate may not have started in New York - we’ve seen them across the nation - but these acts of hate must stop and end in the State of New York, and that’s New York at her best. Every- one today says the same thing: No hate in our state, period. We won’t tolerate it, we condemn it, we stand united against it and we are going to act against it.” Westchester Jewish Life • January 2020 • Tevet-Shevat 5780 • Page 12 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Real Estate Matters by John E. Baer, SRES, SRS How to Make Your Home Stand Out in the 2020 Market The residential housing walls will make a significant home will often sell in half the overlook the low cost and high Value in the details market will soon be heating difference. And it’s easier and time. Also keep in mind, it’s al- impact of re-facing their exist- Architectural details - up, but before you post that less expensive than you think. most always less expensive to ing kitchen cabinets. By swap- hardwood crown moulding, for-sale sign, consider mak- refinish a hardwood floor than ping out dated doors and draw- baseboards and other mill- ing upgrades that add style Survey says hardwood floors it is to re-carpet a room. er pulls, a homeowner can get work - add depth and charac- and value to your home. With sell the look of a newly updated ter, provide a finished look, many buyers seeking hard- When it’s time to sell, What about the kitchen? kitchen and save up to 50 per- and change lackluster to ex- wood floors, kitchen upgrades hardwood floors not only add Upgrade your kitchen cent of the cost of a complete traordinary, so much so that and other add-ons, it’s impor- good looks, they increase the prior to going on the market overhaul. Cabinet re-facing is according to the National As- tant for homeowners to high- value of your home. According because buyers see kitchen a quick-moving project and the sociation of Home Builders’ John E. Baer, SRES, SRS light these features so their to a nationwide survey of real upgrades as being rather ex- kitchen remains functional “What Home Buyers Really is a NYS licensed real estate property stands out from the estate agents commissioned pensive. Homes without up- throughout installation. Want” study, crown moulding salesperson associated with competition. by the National Wood Floor- dated kitchens will take longer Finally, if you have an ranks higher than other luxury Berkshire Hathaway HomeSer- “It all comes down to dol- ing Association, 99 percent to sell, and will sell for less. old white refrigerator, replace features such as fireplaces, vices Westchester Properties lars and ‘sense. In addition to of respondents agreed that Gerry Henley, president it with a new stainless steel kitchen seating and window of Scarsdale and Larchmont. warmth, beauty and durability, homes with hardwood floors of Kitchen Solvers, a national fridge. You don’t have to have seats. Finally, a custom look In the last two years he earned hardwood features increase are easier to sell. In addition, kitchen and bath remodel- all of your appliances in stain- can be obtained relatively in- the “Top Selling Award” seven your home’s resale value. Even 90 percent said these homes ing franchise, suggests simple less steel. But if you have one expensively with off-the-shelf times in the Scarsdale office. with a modest budget, if you sell for more money. Between cabinetry updates that won’t large stainless steel applianc- moulding patterns available at He can be reached for questions take the time and price your two similar properties, buyers break the bank but will result es, buyers will often overlook home improvement stores. at 914/844-2059. His website is options, updating worn floors, will gravitate toward the home in a higher return on your in- the other appliances. www.WestchesterHomes.info. dated cabinetry, and lackluster with hardwood floors, and that vestment. Many homeowners Westchester County Board of Capacity to Sign Estate Planning Documents Health to Recognize Adult and BY BERNARD A. KROOKS, CERTIFIED documents will likely diminish. answered differently depending due influence because of their ELDER LAW ATTORNEY Here’s what I mean: on the nature of the document dementia. Youth Volunteers Someone with a mild cogni- and the circumstances of the So, in the spirit of the new The Westchester County chester. The award was created in Every day, more than tive impairment can usually live signing. The general rule: the year, take the time to think about Board of Health is now seeking 2014 in memory of J.R. Tesone, 10.000 Americans reach the age independently, although there signer must have sufficient -un your estate plan and execute the nominations for the 2020 Pub- a Board of Health member with of 65. Unfortunately, quantity of may be memory problems. Nev- derstanding to know what the necessary documents to make lic Health Service Awards. The a lifelong commitment to West- years does not necessarily equate ertheless, this person should be document is, and the effect of the sure that it will be implemented Board wants to recognize adults, chester children. to qualify of life. In fact, the able to sign legal documents. A signing. Each of those situations, as you envisioned when the time young people and not-for-profit The Board also will high- golden years may turn out to be person with mild dementia is and the dozens of others that comes. Although Mick Jagger programs that demonstrate cre- light the compassion, creativity not so golden. As the size of the someone who may experience might arise, will be judged dif- and the Rolling Stones once said, ativity and commitment in their and commitment demonstrated over-65 population continues to impaired memory and thinking ferently, because the nature and “Time is on your side,” that may efforts to improve public health by a select group of nominees, increase, the number of Ameri- skills. This person may no longer effect of the act will be different. not be the case when it comes to in Westchester. who will be named Public Health cans with Alzheimer’s disease be able to live independently and There are few legal ways to your estate planning. The Board encourages Honorees. or other dementias will increase. will probably need assistance determine capacity in advance. community leaders, healthcare These awards will be an- Currently, there are more than with some activities of daily liv- Some argue whether it is a legal professionals, educators and resi- nounced and presented in April 5.8 million Americans living ing such as bathing, dressing, toi- or medical determination. Chal- dents to nominate worthy people to spotlight National Public with Alzheimer’s disease. By leting etc. Fortunately, this per- lenges to capacity are almost al- or programs by February 11 using Health Week, and the honorees 2050, that number is expected son may still have legal capacity. ways initiated after the signing the nomination forms at www. and their achievements will be to triple. However, someone who needs is completed -- and often after westchestergov.com/health featured on the health depart- Thus, if you have been assistance with most activities of the signer has died, or becomes “Talented and selfless peo- ment’s web pages. Recent youth- waiting for the “right” time do daily living and has more severe completely and undeniably men- ple work hard every day to make ful winners have promoted youth take care of your estate plan- memory loss and perhaps dif- tally incapacitated. That means our communities healthier,” said awareness of the dangers of vap- ning, perhaps you should move ficulty in communicating may that evidence of capacity (or lack Robert Baker, MD, president of ing, advocated for restrictions on that up on your list. A certain or may not have capacity to sign of capacity) is often being recon- the Westchester County Board of tobacco sales, promoted aware- level of capacity is necessary in legal documents. At this point, structed well after the fact. Health. “By nominating these vol- ness of the opioid crisis on cam- order to sign estate planning making sure all legal documents It’s also important to re- unteers for recognition, you can pus or increased sustainability documents. Once you no lon- are in order is of paramount im- member that we are writing here Bernard A. Krooks, Esq., is help inspire others to join our ef- and Earth Day programming, ad- ger have the requisite capacity, portance since once the disease about capacity, and not neces- a founding partner of Littman forts to promote and protect pub- vocated for children affected by you will not be able to complete progresses to severe dementia, it sarily about the validity of docu- Krooks LLP and has been hon- lic health in Westchester.” cancer or created an app to foster your estate plan. So, the ques- is very unlikely that the requisite ments signed by someone with ored as one of the “Best Lawyers” The Dr. Harold Keltz Dis- communication between teens tion becomes: can someone capacity will exist to execute le- dementia. It is entirely possible in America for each of the last tinguished Public Health Service with Type 1 diabetes. living with Alzheimer’s disease gal documents. This stage of the that although someone with seven years. He is past President Award is presented annually to Adult volunteers were rec- or dementia legally sign these illness is typically manifested by dementia has capacity to sign a of the National Academy of Elder a person or community-based ognized recently for promoting documents? Well, the answer sever communication problems will, that they were unduly in- Law Attorneys (NAELA) and past organization, whose efforts have awareness of mental health and is that it depends. While a diag- and inability to perform any ac- fluenced by someone else when President of the New York Chap- made an extraordinary contribu- addiction among young people, nosis of dementia may indicate tivities of living. Unfortunately, signing their will. There is a dif- ter of NAELA. Mr. Krooks has also tion to the public health of West- promoting the construction and some level of diminished capac- this stage may be followed by ference between capacity on the served as chair of the Elder Law chester residents but who is not preservation of affordable hous- ity, it does not necessarily mean profound dementia where the one hand, and undue influence Section of the New York State Bar professionally engaged in public ing and advocating for compre- that person cannot sign legal person is basically bedridden on the other. Dementia might Association. He has been selected health work. hensive mental health care for documents such as a will, trust, and certainly cannot execute any make a given signer incapable of as a “New York Super Lawyer” The J.R. Tesone Youth Pub- low-income residents. Non-profit or power of attorney. There are legal documents. signing a document, or their ca- since 2006. Mr. Krooks may be lic Health Service Award is an programs also have been selected different stages of dementia and Generally speaking, capac- pacity may be sufficient to sign. reached at (914-684-2100) or by annual award to a student up to for their work to reduce health as the disease progresses, the ity is usually analyzed situation- But that same person might be visiting the firm’s website at www. age 21 for his or her creative con- disparities, improve health lit- person’s ability to execute legal ally. That is, the question will be made more susceptible to un- elderlawnewyork.com. tribution to public health in West- eracy, and improve access to care.

Westchester Jewish Life • January 2020 • Tevet-Shevat 5780 • Page 13 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Business Cards Classifieds $87. per issue. Prepaid only. Just mail us your Business Card and Full Payment and we’ll take care of the rest. Mail to: Shoreline Publishing, 629 Fifth Ave., Suite 213, Pelham, N.Y. 10803 ANTIQUES • ART • COLLECTIBLES Most cash paid for paintings, antiques, furniture, silver, sculpture, jewelry, books, cameras, records, instruments, coins, watches, gold, comics, sports cards, etc. Please call Aaron at 914-235-0302.

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Westchester Jewish Life • January 2020 • Tevet-Shevat 5780 • Page 14 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com Mazel Tov Local Teen Rock Band Connects with Jewish Musicians from Around the Globe ness Administration and Jewish Professional Westchester’s Rivertowns and beyond. Its rap- Leadership from the Hornstein Program at idly growing membership of over 2700 families Brandeis University. For more information of all faiths and backgrounds enjoy programs about the Mekorock Program, or to sign up for ranging from early childhood to adult learn- the next semester of Mekorock, contact Kayla ing, from health and fitness to Jewish culture. at [email protected]. Its purpose is to create an environment where The Shames Jewish Community Center people can connect with one another for last- on the Hudson is a 75,000 square foot state-of- ing relationships to enhance their lives and the-art facility at the epicenter of Jewish life in benefit the community. Westchester Jewish Council Holds 44th Anniversary Gala The Westchester Jewish Council (WJC) will celebrate its 44th Anniversary Gala, on Saturday, BY KAYLA REISMAN capital. Each chapter had the chance to play February 1, 2020 at 7:15pm at Temple Israel Center of White Plains, 280 Old Mamaroneck Road, a song of their own, before the groups united White Plains. The celebration will honor David A. Alpert, Arlene Kleinberg and Saul, David and Dan- In December 2018, the Shames JCC on to perform “Home” the song they wrote during iel Singer for their dedication and service to the Westchester Jewish community. The evening will the Hudson in Tarrytown, NY was awarded a the trip, including verses in each country’s na- feature a cocktail dinner and dessert by Foremost Caterers with entertainment by comedian Corey generous Ignition Grant from the Covenant tive language and references to our text study Kahaney. Kosher dietary laws will be observed. Foundation to kickstart a new music education together on home through the perspective of Arlene Kleinberg is a strong believer in supporting the Jewish community and people in need program for teens aimed at encouraging Jew- the Garden of Eden. At the end of the perfor- through philanthropy and volunteer opportunities. She is currently the Campaign Chair of West- ish learning. The goal of the program was to mance, the teens joined hands to lead the au- chester’s UJA Federation and serves on UJA’s Time for Good committee in New York City. She is a strengthen Jewish identity through music, to dience in dancing and singing to traditional Board Member of the Westchester Jewish Council and The Sharing Shelf. Arlene is a former Board use its universal language to build connections Jewish and Israeli folk music. For a full video Member of the Mid-Westchester JCC and served on the Executive Committee of her synagogue, the with communities of young people across dif- of our performance in Jerusalem, find it under Young Israel of Scarsdale. When her children attended Westchester Day School, Arlene was a Class ferent parts of the world. In its first year, the videos on the “Shames JCC” Facebook page. Parent, Co-Chair and volunteer teacher with Learning to Look, an arts education program and co- New York Chapter of the Global Mekorock The experience was transformative, and chaired the Yom Ha’Atzmaut Family Program. She also reads to first graders at PS 75 in New York Program brought together six teens from dif- the teens are more excited than ever to build City. She calls herself a “professional volunteer”. ferent schools and Jewish backgrounds across on their relationships, explore their identity, David A. Alpert has been a devoted leader of the Jewish community for more than 50 years. He Westchester on a weekly basis to learn music and play music together. One of the musicians, is the Senior Vice President of Riverside Memorial Chapel and is actively involved in many philan- theory from our Music Director, Billy Smolen Bella Greenspoon of Temple Beth Abraham thropic, civic and humanitarian organizations. David played a prominent role in the dedication of (a Broadway veteran) and to write original mu- in Tarrytown, said she felt the experience al- the Jewish Chaplains’ Memorial at Arlington National Cemetery and was the major force behind the sic based on Jewish texts – from the story of lowed her to “open up and really become the Jewish Chaplains’ monument tour, “On the Road to Arlington”. Judah, to a Talmudic tractate on global respon- person I want to be. This week has been one of Closer to home, David is a RIETS Fellow of Yeshiva University and serves on the boards of the sibility, to contemporary scholars such as Rab- the best weeks in my life.” Eitan Gotian of the Wurzweiller School of Social Work at Yeshiva University, the Westchester Jewish Council, Westches- bi Lord Jonathan Sacks. Our theme this year Leffell School and Beth El Synagogue Center ter Jewish Community Services, the United Hebrew Home of New Rochelle and the Advisory Board was “Thank You, What’s Next?” – a nod to the in New Rochelle told us that he was initially of the New York Board of Rabbis. David is a past member of the Board of Governors of B’nai B’rith popular Ariana Grande song. Students com- worried about the language barrier, but once International, Past Chairman of the Holocaust and Human Rights Education Center of Westchester, posed songs inspired by Jewish ideas about they were in Israel and started to sing songs Past President of the Free Synagogue of Westchester and a member of Congregation Emanu-El. gratitude and social responsibility. While we for Shabbat, everything changed. “I truly knew Saul and Fran Singer, along with their two sons, David and Daniel, have been devoted leaders were building our repertoire in Westchester I was home. In fact, I felt that having these dif- of the Westchester community for decades. The Singer Family, with Saul as President, acquired County, teens in Venezuela, Ukraine, Moldova ferences made us closer together… Realizing Robison Oil in 1984. Today the business is still family run with David and Daniel as Co-Presidents. and Israel were busily doing the same. And on that even though we spoke different languages, Saul was one of the founders of the Westchester Jewish Council, served as its president and December 11th of this year, we had the oppor- music was the language that truly connected has held many other prominent leadership roles in the Jewish Community, including: President of tunity to all gather together at the JCC Global us all.” Noah Spevack of the Leffell School was the Greenburgh Jewish Center, Chairman of Israel Bonds in Westchester, member of the Board of Conference in Jerusalem, to celebrate our similarly moved by the experience of build- Governors of UJA Federation, Vice President of the New York Conference for Soviet Jewry, member identities, to play music, and make friendships ing connections through music: “My favorite of the Boards of Ben Gurion University and of the Solomon Schechter School of Westchester (now that will keep us connected to a global Jewish part was jamming with people from all over the Leffell School). community. the world and seeing how we are from oppo- David has served the community in many ways, including as a member of the Board of Directors We arrived in Israel a few days before the site sides of the planet but we can still play of the Westchester Putnam Workforce Investment Board, UJA Business and Professionals Division, big performance, and our teen musicians had the same songs together.” Angelina Palumbo the Rosenthal Jewish Community Center of Northern Westchester, the White Plains Hospital Advi- the opportunity to spend time with host fami- of the Leffell School was also surprised at how sory Board, and Board of the Boys & Girls Club. David currently sits on the advisory board of J-Teen lies in the Emek Hefer Valley region in central much Hebrew she learned, and how Israel is and the Board of Directors for Feeding Westchester, as well as chair of the Feeding Westchester HR Israel, just a few miles from the Mediterra- one big family. She said saying goodbye was committee. nean. Together they celebrated Shabbat with the hardest part. All of the teens expressed Daniel is Past Chair of UJA-Federation’s Westchester Business and Professional Division and their hosts and new friends, visited museums their gratitude for the strong relationships a recent Past President of Congregation Sons of Israel in Briarcliff Manor. He served as Past chair and tourist attractions, studied Jewish texts, that they were able to build in a short amount of the American Jewish Committee’s Energy Independence Committee, as well as its Westchester and co-wrote a song they then translated into of time, and their renewed sense of belonging Board of Directors. four languages. Just two days later, they per- and “home” as global Jews in the diaspora and The Westchester Jewish Council connects Westchester’s Jewish communities and strengthens formed their new music for packed crowd of in the Jewish homeland. relationships among 140 Jewish organizations and other ethnic and faith based groups, elected of- Jewish professionals and leaders in the ball- Kayla Reisman serves as the Director of ficials, Israel and the community at large. room of the Crowne Plaza Hotel, located in Youth and Teen Engagement at the Shames This event is open to the entire community. Cost varies by donor level. Details and registration the historic Givat Ram neighborhood of the JCC on the Hudson. She has a Masters in Busi- are available on line at www.wjcouncil.org. For more information contact the Council at 914-328- 7001. Westchester Jewish Life • January 2020 • Tevet-Shevat 5780 • Page 15 • www.westchesterjewishlife.com