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VOL. XLVII NO.9 PUBLISHED BI-WEEKLY MAY 7,2021/25 IYYAR 5781 NEXT DEADLINE MAY 21, 2021 16 PAGES

HOW TO REACH US - PHONE 860-442-8062 • FAX 860-540-1475 • EMAIL [email protected] • BY MAIL: 28 CHANNING STREET, NEW LONDON, CT 06320 Young Emissaries 24/7! JFEC Book Talk+ with Author Sue Eisenfeld The Jewish Federation’s Culture & Fun initiative is bringing Book Talk+ with running all year since we could author Sue Eisenfeld to the community not have our Young Emissaries on Sunday, May 16 at 11 AM on Zoom. with us, due to the pandemic. I Go to the JFEC.com Calendar at the shared a couple of the articles bottom of the homepage to May 16 and with her, particularly the one of register for this event. Eisenfeld will the Young Emissary she hosted talk about her latest book WANDERING and the one in this paper by DIXIE and leave plenty of time for Sivan Gvili (YE 2017-18). She was questions from those in attendance. very moved by the series and we Thanks go to Armi Rowe for bringing this spoke at great length about the author to the Federation’s attention and Young Emissary program and to Bank Square Books at 53 West Main the huge impact it had on her life St. in Mystic who will order the book and the lives of so many in our for you to read either before or after Marcia Reinhard, JFEC Ass’t Director (c) surrounded by Eastern CT’s community. She did not know May 16. Here is the link that will allow 2017-18 Young Emissaries Sivan Gvili (l) and Ziv Lavi (r) during Sivan or Ziv, but she has no doubt you to order the book https://www. orientation in August 2017. they too, made an impact of their banksquarebooks.com/jfec-book-talk-series-sue-eisenfeld. own. Sue Eisenfeld is a Yankee by birth, a Virginian by choice, an urbanite By Marcia Reinhard, JFEC Ass’t Director Sivan and Ziv arrived like all who came to love the rural South, a Civil War buff, and a nonobservant As I sit here on vacation in Florida, at the home of a young lady the others before them – a soft Jewish woman. In WANDERING who used to live in our community, a past Schechter student, a host landing at Camp Laurelwood for DIXIE, she travels to nine states, sibling to a Young Emissary, my daughter’s best friend and a big part uncovering how the history of of our family, I am telling her about this special series we have been CONT. ON PG 10 EMISSARIES Jewish southerners converges with her personal story and

present. In the process, she discoversthe region’s the complex, unexpected conflicted ways that race, religion, and hidden histories intertwine. AUTHOR CONT. ON PG 13 Jewish FilmFest underway By the time you receive this paper, many of you will have viewed LOVE IN SUSPENDERS FilmFest. Upcoming movies during the first the moviemonth offered of May duringinclude the A STARRY 2021 Jewish SKY ABOVE THE ROMAN GHETTO, May 13-16; and KISS ME KOSHER and A SHABBOS GOY (short), May 20-23. Turn to page 16 for information about registering to receive the movie links and to register for the talk following STARRY SKY on May 16 at 1 pm. The JFF thanks it sponsors for their support to make this festival possible. Yale NewHaven Health, Congregation Sharah Zedek Lawrence+Memorial Hospital Hochberg Holocaust & Human Rita Hendel & Family Rights Education Committee Patricia Hendel & Family The Leiser Family Foundation Seniors once again making connections! Mallove’s Jewelers The Jewish Federation’s Senior Connections group was able to enjoy their first lunch together in over a Valenti Auto Group Minuteman Press year at Bates Woods Park in New London on May 3 at 12:30 pm. While the group was hoping for sunny Litchfield Distillery The Nutmeg Companies, Inc. weather the serious rain did hold off until later in the day. The 18 seniors in attendance enjoyed baked Carol Curland Sayet & Seder, Attorneys at Law stuffed shells or a tossed salad with tuna fish along with fruit, cookies and a juice box. Pizzarama, located Steven & Debra Daren at 625 Broad St. in New London catered the luncheon. Check out page 3 for a schedule of upcoming luncheons and more pictures from May 3. Pictured above l-r front: Safra Katz, Sonny Hendel, and Izzy Katz. At the other end of the table are Stuart and Sue Miller. 2 THE JEWISH LEADER, MAY 7, 2021 Beth El Book Club meets May 9 at 8:15 PM

By Dan Bendor We are meeting The Beth El Book Club is open to the community. Sunday, May 9, First, I want to apologize for not getting the word 2021 @ 8:15 PM out much earlier. I’ve just started reading our next by Zoom. We had book and so now can recommend it with more knowledge. We Stand Divided time and that is the and discusses a disturbing and consequential “rift” nighttrouble of findingMother’s a (chasm?) between American and is Israeli by Daniel Jews. GordisThis is especially an issue for American Jews the ages of our those who want children and grandchildren. toDay. attend We will hopehave I thought I knew quite a bit about Israel’s pre- honored mothers A conversation about hate history and post-1948 events. History is humbling and grandmothers crimes and bias in Connecticut and there is much to learn. Just halfway through at lunch or dinner, the book, I’ve discovered many facts I’d not known. so they can come Join us on Thursday, May 13, 2021 at 7:30 PM for a conversation Gordis discusses issues that are thought provoking to the evening on hate crimes, bias and how we can all take actionable steps to and that can lead to spirited discussion. meeting. ensure the safety of our communities featuring Attorney General I have heard that Gordis can be a dense and If you have questions, call me at 860-235- it an easy read. Also, one third of it is notes, making the essential text 9569. You can call the Beth El of ConnecticutThe conversation William will Tong focus and on facilitatedhate crimes, by the Steve surge Ginsburg, in incidents ADL less.challenging There are writer. not manyNot here! copies Those in the of stateus who’ve and the started Waterford the book Library find Regional Director. was able to get 5. I think there are 2 left. Also, it’s available on Kindle added to the email list or to get for electronic, immediate delivery and hard copy, hopefully from a theoffice zoom (860-4424-0418) invitation. You to can get monitoredagainst the during Asian theAmerican past year. Pacific Islander (AAPI) community and brick-and-mortar bookstore and certainly from Amazon. also email me (danbendor@ trendsThere in willhate be including time for racismQ&A and and if antisemitismyou have any thatquestions, the ADL please has As Faye reminded me, this is not a novel. Therefore, she accurately aol.com) or Faye (fayeringel@ reach out to Leah Kagan at [email protected]. noted that your experiences as an American Jew are relevant to our hotmail.com) for a zoom invite. This webinar is co-sponsored by UJA-JCC of Greenwich, YWCA Faye and I are co-leading, and she join, even if only to see whether the book might interest you. will be the host. Click here to register: https://adl.zoom.us/webinar/register/ discussion and you will have things to contribute. Don’t hesitate to WN_eEjZRxW6QSqdSY5DefQ8dQ%20Greenwich, and ADL Connecticut. Thomas Nides next US ambassador to Israel? Candle Lighting for Eastern CT area By Ron Kampeas, JTA less with policy, and Israel barely Thomas Nides, a deputy came up. Friday, May 7 • 7:34 pm secretary of state during the Obama That and his career in banking Friday, May 14 • 7:41 pm administration, is seen as the likeliest outside of government make choice to become U.S. ambassador to Nides something of a blank slate Friday, May 21 • 7:48 pm Israel. to the pro-Israel community. In Friday, May 28 • 7:54 pm contrast, some of the other names the likelihood of a Nides nomination that have come up in speculation lastThe week, Washington and sources Post firstclose reported to the about the ambassadorship have longstanding ties with the Israeli and pro-Israel establishment, theBiden front-runner. administration officials in on among them Robert Wexler, the the decision have confirmed that he is National Award Winner of the Council of Jewish of Jewish Federations as the Outstanding Thomas Nides, seen in an Nides, who is Jewish, was former Florida congressman. Small Cities Jewish newspaper. Published every other Friday for the dissemination of undated photo, would be the deputy secretary of state for Naming as ambassador Jewish news and views by the Jewish Federation of Eastern Connecticut, 28 Channing something of a blank slate management and resources from someone with a rank just Street, New London, CT 06320, 860-442-8062. to the pro-Israel community 2011 to 2013. Interlocutors who below Cabinet-level in a Managing Editor...... Mimi Perl should he land the envoy post. dealt with Israel issues remember previous administration would Layout Editor...... Jen Gault (Wikimedia Commons) him as a hardworking and receptive nonetheless be a signal to Israel Social Editor...... Freida Katz interlocutor. However, his job in that of the importance Biden attaches President ...... Romana Strochlitz Primus position had more to do with administrative functions at State and to the position. Executive Director...... Carin Savel Mailing Volunteers...... Mimi & Milt Seed, Marlene Siegel ...... Gerald & Marilyn Rubin Energy Saving Windows & Doors! Advertising: Call Mimi Perl 860-442-8062 or [email protected]. ORDER FACTORY DIRECT! Advertising Deadline: Friday, May 21 for May 28, 2021 issue. Vinyl Replacement & New Construction Windows Editorial Content: Preferred receipt of editorial material is via email to [email protected]. Photo(s) submitted via email should be separate Storm Windows & Commercial Aluminum attachment(s) from article. Preferred photo format is a .jpg format; resolution Professional Installation Available should be a minimum of 200 dpi. ~ Duralite warm edge spacer stays warmer and keeps you cozy. Material sent via fax [860-540-1475] or first class mail [28 Channing St., 860.848.9258 ~ When you’re cozy you save energy and money! New London, CT 06320] should be typed/double spaced or neatly printed. ~ Saving energy is also good for the environment. If you submit a hard copy of a photo and wish the photo returned, include a CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE ~ Stay comfortable and keep moisture out. stamped, self- addressed envelope. www.alltimemfg.com ~ Duralite glass space is the best in the Editorial Deadline: Friday, May 21 for May 28 issue. industry! Printing: The Republican, Springfield, MA Postmaster: Send address changes to Jewish Leader, 28 Channing St., New London, CT 06320 Since 1946 THE JEWISH LEADER, MAY 7, 2021 3 May 2021 Senior Connections

SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY SATURDAY Reservations All Kosher April 29 April 30 1. Senior Connections required. Hot Lunches 3 pm Deadline Please call Carly (KHL) begin to reserve 5/3 at It’s Springtime! @ 12:30. lunch The weather is getting warmer, the birds are chirping, and the smell (806-333-8218) 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. enjoy the sun? It is time for us to return to in-person gatherings. No Stuffed Shells 3 pm Deadline moreof fresh Zoom! cut grass What fills better the air. way What to enjoy better a thing picnic to than do than in the to go fresh out air?and to reserve 5/10 lunch This is where old friends get to catch up and new relationships and bonds are made. So come hungry and stay for the conversation. This is 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. where you will have Eggplant Parmesan Lunch and Kibbitz – Coming in May For May and June, lunches will be catered by Pizzarama in New London. When making your reservation, let us know if you have any 16. 17. Office Closed 18. Office Closed 19. 20. 21. 22. food allergies we need to let Pizzarama know about. The menu will 3 pm Deadline to reserve 5/24 be varied and includes a hot entrée, grinder, or a salad. Refer to the lunch schedule below. 23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28 29 luncheon, by 3 PM so we can place the order by Friday. Baked Ziti AllDeadline events towill reserve take place your on Mondays meal will at be12:30 the pm Thursday at Bates Woods before Park, 80 Chester St. New London, CT 06230. The park is right down the street from New London High School. Bates Woods Park has plenty 30. 31 Office Closed June 1 June 2 June 3 June 4 of free parking and multiple pavilions to keep us in the shade when the 3 pm Deadline sun is shining brightly. to reserve 6/7 lunch May 3 Stuffed Shells - Pasta shells baked with tomato sauce and ricotta cheese, covered with a layer of mozzarella cheese. May 10 Eggplant Seniors reconnecting on Parmesan - Fried eggplant baked in tomato sauces and Mozzarella cheese. May 3 during lunch May 24 Baked Ziti - Ziti baked with tomato sauce, ricotta cheese and mozzarella In the front are Sandy and cheese baked throughout. Abe Fisher enjoying their June 7 Spinach Pie - Spinach and Feta sit in between two layers stuffed shells. At the far end of dough. of the table is a bundled up June 14 Individual Pizza’s - Marilyn Fishbone with her No explanation needed, right? hubby Stuart. June 21 Stuffed Shells - Pasta shells baked with tomato sauce; ricotta cheese covered in a layer of mozzarella cheese. June 28 Eggplant parmesan - Fried eggplant covered with tomato sauce and Mozzarella cheese.

Stuff you need to know about our events Carly’s Schedule – Please call Carly at 860-333-8218, Monday through Friday 9:00 AM to 3:00PM for all reservations or questions regarding senior services. We have limited space available so please call as soon as possible to make sure you get a seat.

Carly Luft, JFEC Senior Coordinator and JFEC Executive Director Carin Savel at the first Pictured on the left in purple is Ruth Bachman and across from her is senior luncheon of the Rosalie Zenobio. Sitting next to Ruth and masked is Carly Luft, JFEC season. Senior Coordinator. 4 THE JEWISH LEADER, MAY 7, 2021 New members and a long overdue reunion Realtor Corner By Simone Lerner in person for many months. It What are you person convention in over a year. The convention was held by the wasfirst amazingtime we’ve to beseen able each to spendother This weekend, Yachad BBYO came together to attend the first in- Connecticut Valley Region of BBYO. Yachad was not able to travel to this quality time together. going to see? Hartford to join other teens from chapters within the region, and only A special thank you to The a limited number of teens were allowed anyway. We were, however, Rowe and McCaffrey families By Geoff Hausmann able to spend a weekend together with teens from within our chapter for hosting our events Friday and virtually on Zoom with the region. When you pull up to a home, you get evening and Sunday morning. very excited on what you are about to see. With wearing my mask, my On Friday night, we all Our next event will be on met at Amanda Rowe’s house glasses fog up and I wonder if I am imaging things. The problem is that Saturday, May 22 when we will my clients see the same thing. where we had an outdoor hold our chapter board elections event. We decorated tee Last week I entered a home only to see a working toilet in the middle for next year. These are also going of the living room. I told my clients that someone must have just left it shirts, had pizza for dinner, to be in person with all protocols and caught up with each other. We got to talk about the ups and downs there but saw it was fully connected with a roll of toilet paper next to in place, ie: masks, social it. You still have to travel to the kitchen in order to wash your hands. of this year, and the effect it’s had on each of us. Then we engaged in distancing, etc. just as we did this our own Friday night service and afterwards, we hopped on a Zoom Pick a color. I am by no means an artist, but I walked into this home past weekend. If you or your teen wondering if I went to a paint store. This person threw blotches of with the region for more service-related music and singing. It was would like information on how great to be able to join together virtually for the service with the whole paint on the wall. Having at least 25 different colors on the wall. to become part of our local teen What about opening a door and expecting stairs to the basement Connecticut Valley Region. chapter of BBYO, please contact On Saturday, we enjoyed a virtual day of fun activities. There was Regan Kaye, VP Membership, at a talk by Rabbi Lazowski, a murder mystery program, and a speed [email protected] or Marcia only to find nothing but a big hole? dating game as well as a business meeting for the boys and girls another whole section of the home. This person had added an entire Reinhard at [email protected]. I opened a door expecting to be able to go outside only to find (separately) and a Havdalah service that was outside for the teens in apartment. We all had a great time together I was showing a property to an investor. This property was Hartford which we participated in on Zoom. The quality wasn’t great and the more people we have since it was dark and hard to hear, but we managed. advertised that it was gutted. What they did not say that the sheetrock, attending programs and events, wiring, plumping and the walls were gone. This two-story building On Sunday, Yachad came back together in person, this time at Bayla the more fun it is for everyone! McCaffrey’s house. We had a Lag B’Omer event where we played our was brought down to the rafters and would have a huge drop if you Looking forward to seeing you walked to the wrong place. own version of the TV show Survivor. We had 11 teens in attendance, there! and everyone had a great time! We also had inductions – a not-too- There are times you do not want to see things. In this case, this agent gave me feedback asking about the goat next door. She did not think Simone Lerner is Yachad this was allowed in this area of Norwich. So, I asked my client only to BBYO’s VP of Jewish Heritage or formal ceremony where we, officially, welcome new members. Each get the response that it is not a pet. It just means that the neighbor will Sch’licha. She is a junior in high werenew member thrilled toreceives induct a three pin, a of book our aboutnewest BBYO members: and a certificate. Max Frischling, (Due be having a BBQ very soon. From time to time, different animals will school attending Three Rivers Aviato a printing Hartman issue, and certificatesEmmerson will Kaye. be presented We know atthey our will next bring event.) much We appear for a short period of time. I am going to end this here. Middle College and this is her first energy, fun and new ideas to our chapter. The funniest thing just happened. While showing a home, my client year on board. This weekend was very special because, for many of us, it was the saw a coffee table and she responded that she had a coffee table like that, but I sold it recently. She said that the other side was missing the knobs on the other side. Of course, the knobs were missing and then Opening inquiry into Meron catastrophe she saw the green paint in the corner. I told her that it was possible to By Ron Kampeas, JTA number of Israelis, including request the table in her offer. I told her that this was a sign because her Israel’s state comptroller has launched an inquiry into the stampede Knesset members, are calling furniture was already there. at Mount Meron on Lag b’Omer that killed 45 celebrants, citing prior for a commission of inquiry that could recommend criminal Please remember you can search for homes at www. indictments. CallTheHouseMan.com. Do you have a question about real estate? warnings from his office that the site was unsafe for mass use. Accusations so far have been Advice/responses will be made by: Geoff Hausmann, RE/MAX on aimed mostly at Prime Minister the Bay, 860-443-4400, [email protected] Benjamin Netanyahu and two Cabinet members close to him, The Jewish Leader’s independent journalism and Public Security Minister depends on donations from readers like you. Interior Minister Aryeh Deri Amir Ohana. The trio reportedly If you haven’t given to the annual appeal removed restrictions for access to the site at a time that Netanyahu this year, please consider giving now. is cultivating haredi, or ultra- Orthodox, parties in a bid to form a government following the Mourners gather for the funeral of one of those who died in the March elections. Lag b’Omer stampede on Israel’s Mount Meron, April 30, 2021. (Ilia Benny Gantz, the Blue and Yefimovich/picture alliance via Getty Images) White party leader who is justice “We must now examine and see how this incident should have been minister, said he has asked the Since 1919 Southeastern Connecticut’s Oldest and Most Respected Jewelers prevented,” Haaretz quoted Matanyahu Englman as saying on May 3. attorney general for a legal Diamonds ❖ Watches ❖ Crystal Englman also said he would explore assigning personal liability for opinion about establishing a Fine Contemporary & Antique Jewelry the tragedy. commission of inquiry. Gantz Custom Jewelry Design ❖ Expert Jewelry & Watch Repair He noted that reports by one of his predecessors in 2008 and 2011 is among those seeking to keep Estate Jewelry Bought & Sold found that structural changes to the site in northern Israel were made Netanyahu from emerging without oversight. Tens of thousands of Jews, most of them haredi as prime minister in the 44726 Orthodox, gather at the site each year to commemorate the death of negotiations. 262 Boston Post Road • Utopia Centre second-century Rabbi Shimon Bar Yochai, whose tomb is believed to Netanyahu has said he will set Waterford, CT • (860) 442-4391 be at the site. up a commission following the ❖ ❖ 30-day period of mourning. Monday - Thursday 10:00-6:00 Friday 10:00-7:00 Saturday 10:00-4:00

The Comptroller’s Office does not have enforcement powers. A THE JEWISH LEADER, MAY 7, 2021 5 studied the brochure, images my life, I don’t know a soul in California, and my son’s future plans are By of children at play interspersed far from definite. Would I be willing to leave the life I’ve created the past with the text. “We need you more forty years just to follow my son wherever his job might lead? Do I have than your donations.” to sacrifice everything to be near my grandchildren? Couldn’t they move Artie A smile lit Susan’s face as she back east? imagined herself surrounded Lost in thought, Susan didn’t hear the neighbor’s screen door slam. by young people again. At 9 am “Why so glum?” Sarah said, plopping down in the chair beside Dean Susan. “When can I start?” sheSarah called threw the Federation herself into office. her “I said it’s a lot to think about.” Then she turned to her neighbor and The COVID Chronicles new position with gusto. She opened“So what her mouth did you to say?” speak; Sarah reconsidered, said when foldedSusan finishedher hands explaining. in her lap supervised a group of four-year and returned to her rocking in silence. Susan Rosen moved to the window, the sounds of laughter on old’s each morning along with the porch she shared with her neighbor impossible to ignore. With three other decidedly older To be continued. . . women. She started wearing makeup again, looked forward an arthritic finger she parted the venetian blind only enough to get embrace, while the boy’s two younger sisters stood shyly holding their to getting out each day. The 10 Jewish documentaries a glimpse of Sarah Plotkin smothering a five-year old’s head in her parents’ hands. Generous in nature, Susan looked on with a blank children seemed to thrive on expression, as her neighbor’s face beamed. her attention, called her Bubbie funded through Jewish “Come give your Grandma a kiss,” Plotkin cackled, shaking the boy Susan, yearned to sit by her side in glee. as she read stories. Sometimes Story Partners Susan took a deep breath, her mind drawn to the picture of her she’d go out for coffee with her own three grandchildren on the mantle. Shake any harder and you’ll co-workers, but sometimes she By Gabe Friedman, JTA dislocate the child’s neck. preferred returning home after The Jewish Story Partners foundation, which Steven Spielberg and “What, no hug?” Plotkin continued. She pulled the boy to her bosom a particularly busy morning. wife Kate Capshaw helped found to fund Jewish-themed documentary and kissed his cheek. The boy grimaced, then wiped the side of his face On just one of these days, Sarah with the palm of his hand, a motion missed by the child’s grandmother, Plotkin was sitting on their The 10 projects received a total of $225,000 from Jewish Story but noted with the slightest hint of pleasure by Susan Rosen. shared porch dabbing at her red Partners,films, announced which itshas first received slate of its grantees initial onfunding Wednesday. from Spielberg’s Rosen retreated to the mantle, took the picture of her grandchildren eyes with a handkerchief. Righteous Persons Foundation, the Maimonides Fund and the Jim in her hands, and tried to imagine the smell of their hair, the smoothness “Haven’t seen you in weeks.” Joseph Foundation. of their cheeks, the way their eyes danced when they listened to her Sarah said. “Where do you go read bedtime stories. If only I could hug them again. She blew her nose every morning?” “Coexistence My Ass!” – Directed by Amber Fares and wiped her eyes, then sat on the couch and stared at the picture of Susan was about to explain Here are the films, first reported by Deadline: her family taken one month before the pandemic, while Susan visited when Sarah blurted, “My children using her standup routine to get Israelis to question their biases. them in Atlanta. are moving to Chicago. Can you “TheThe film Conspiracy” follows Israeli – Directed comedian by Maxim Noam Schuster,Pozdorovkin who is bent on The commotion outside subsided. The screen door slammed. Susan imagine? After everything I’ve turned on her TV and watched a CNN report about increasing isolation done for them.” She buried her of powerful Jews controls the world.” during the pandemic. She found herself unable to concentrate, trying to face in her hands. “How could “MeredithThe film looks Monk: at the Dancing history behindVoice, Singingthe lie “that Body” a dangerous – Directed cabal by picture what she’d have to do to see her children again. She’d had both they do this to me?” Billy Shebar and David Roberts her shots, but the grandkids were in school, the parents unvaccinated, “I know just how you feel.” The groundbreaking composer and choreographer, who has won Susan said, with a compassion The next day after the Plotkin brood was gone, Susan met Sarah she’d never before felt for her The pop legend Bjork is a co-producer. waiting their turn, afraid of taking a flight north. while taking out the garbage. neighbor. “I’ve got something the“Rabbi” National – Medal Directed of Arts by Sandi and a DuBowskiMacArthur grant, gets her own film. “Pity your grandkids can’t see you.” Sarah said. “My children and I for you,” Susan said after “Rabbi” chronicles the story of pioneering Rabbi Amichau Lau- are a pod. I babysit at least every other day.” Sarah poured out her heart. Lavie “from drag queen rebel to rabbinical student to founder of “How nice for you,” Susan said, turning away, imagining Plotkin Then she went into her living Lab/Shul, an everybody-friendly, God-optional, artist-driven, pop-up with her mouth sewn shut. room, returning quickly with a experimental congregation.” Later that morning Susan leafed through her photo albums, a brochure. “They can use all the “South Commons” – Directed by Joey Soloway pastime that had always cheered her up in the past. But now, more than help they can get. No pay, but the The Jewish creator of “Transparent” takes a hard look at the racial a year into the pandemic, memories of her family seemed bittersweet. tensions in the Chicago community in which they grew up. The following week Susan “Untitled Spiritual Care Documentary” – Directed by Luke passed them over the images of her grandchildren’s smiling faces. gotbenefits a call are from remarkable.” her son in Atlanta Lorentzen As she turned the last page she touched her fingers to her lips and She busied herself with household chores, trying to displace while she was reading a story Mount Sinai hospitals in New York appoint interfaith chaplain her thoughts. She’d heard about the high rate of suicide in people to the children at daycare. “Hey isolated by the pandemic. The papers were full of stories about the Mom, you won’t believe it, but I “The Wild One” – Directed by Tessa Louise Salomé despondent elderly increasingly isolated by fear. She washed her got a promotion and I’m moving residentsIt’s the each story year of Jack — thisGarfein, film anfollows Auschwitz four of survivor them. who went on to to Los Angeles next month for a play a key role in the Actors’ Studio group and taught the craft to some cleaning. Later that evening she opened her mail, relishing even the yearlong assignment after I get of the last century’s biggest stars. bedding, vacuumed, and mopped her floors, aware they didn’t need advertisements as a distraction. The last piece of mail caught her eye. vaccinated. We’d love to have you “Heroes” – Directed by Avishai Mekonen and Shari Rothfarb “Vaccinated adults wanted to provide daycare for working families.” babysit for the kids. Would you Mekonen She dismissed the idea out of hand, for despite her vaccination, the ever consider relocating?” The tale of a group of Ethiopian-Jewish activists who fought to thought of getting out amongst people made her uneasy. Instead of Susan murmured something keep their community alive in the 1970s to 1990s, a time of harsh discarding the solicitation in the trash she set it on the kitchen table, into the phone, then continued dictatorship. reading to the children. At home “Joyva” – Directed by Josh Freund and Sam Radutzky and turning, images of Sarah Plotkin with her family on the porch she sat on the porch, rocking in The 100-plus-year-old Joyva company is among the most glancing at it whenever she passed. That night she slept fitfully, tossing, dancing in her head. She woke before daybreak, tottered half asleep to her favorite chair, contemplating recognized Jewish-American candy companies, whose delicacies often the kitchen to brew a pot of coffee, dreading another purposeless day. her future. She pictured a life As she sat at the table her eyes were drawn once again to the brochure, signaling to her like the lighthouse beacon she loved so but seeing the grandchildren end up at holiday celebrations such as Passover. The film focuses wheneverin Los Angeles: she wanted. smog, Then traffic, the on “Walk the founder’s With Me” great-grandchildren, – Directed by Heidi who Levitt are fighting to keep the in its time of need. Your act of kindness can make all the difference. reality of the choice came into businessLevitt afloat.tracks her husband’s battle with early-onset Alzheimer’s Sponsoredmuch on Pequot jointly Avenue. by the She United read Way the fine and print. the Jewish “Help yourFederation.” community She sharper focus. I’ll be uprooting disease. 6 THE JEWISH LEADER, MAY 7, 2021 Attached to Susan’s letter The kindness of strangers was a handwritten copy of my By Marcia Reinhard, JFEC Ass’t Director left the theatre and went out into the streets we ran smack into mother’s letter to Steve. It was Once in a blue moon, something happens the ticker-tape parade celebrating the July 20 moon landing. That is hard to read so Susan typed it at that restores our faith in humanity – and in why I know the exact date we met your mother. When I researched the bottom of her letter. people. Someone does some random act the weather and the parade, I learned that the astronauts were in “Dear Steve, NYC from 9:15-1:15 and the parade started at Bowling Green and I cannot tell you how recipient. ended at the United Nations. Nowhere near the Paris Theatre or delighted I was to receive your of kindness of which you find yourself the I recently received an envelope in the the likely time one would be watching a movie! The temperature note, not for the money, but mail – you know the kind – it looks like a was 83 degrees and the humidity 55%, so not awful! A news clip the principle involved. There real letter, but the return address is not I just watched described the city as “bedlam” during the parade, are so many people who tend from anyone you know. It’s always junk; so maybe the streets were crazy even beyond the parade route or to judge all teenagers, not by someone looking for a donation to their maybe we bumped into crowds on coming out of Grand Central the individual, but by the ones cause, or worse, a scam. When I looked at Station and maybe we saw the movie in a different theatre. In any who make the headlines. Being the envelope, I had no idea who S. Cody of case…when it was time to go home, we did not have enough money the mother of two teenage girls Shirley Feuerman, z’l Bronxville was and was sure it was either for train tickets! (14 and 17) I know many young bad news, a request for money or just plain I recall going into a bank to request a loan (from your mother.) people and so I feel a little more junk. One thing was different, however. It was thick. It felt like a letter. How silly were we? Steve recalls meeting your mother on the street qualified than others. Besides, So, despite its appearance, I opened it anyway. and asking for money. He suggests that banks would not have been I have my woman’s intuition As I began reading, the salutation had me intrigued. It was open on a weekend, but I checked the date and August 13 was a going for me. weekday. Your mom did lend us the money to get home, giving us a Thank you for showing me business card (my recollection) with the address. Steve returned the how right I am in my faith in the addressed, “Dear Francine and Marcia.” (Francine being my sister was stunned. It took my breath away. I stopped reading and told Mike money and your mother responded with a letter (a copy enclosed.) younger generation. I bet two who lives in Peekskill, NY.) I continued reading the first sentence and I and Rebecca (with whom I was about to eat lunch), “I have to read Your mother’s kind assistance and experiencing perhaps the dollars on a teenager and I won. this out loud to you.” And so, I did. Mike listened as he moved about biggest ticker-tape parade that New York City has ever seen, I will always keep your letter. the kitchen, while Beca and I were mesmerized with tears streaming combined to create this magical day that was the basis for one of Best wishes to you, down our faces. my college application essays. It would be interesting to see that Mrs. Shirley Feuerman” We had just hit the two-year anniversary of my mother’s passing essay today, but I imagine it was about the trust your kind mother back on April 11. It is because of this letter and the timing in which I had in us and great steps for mankind, etc., etc. Clearly, the fact that Epilogue: My sister and I received it, that I decided it was worthy of being shared. Some of you Steve still had the letter says something as well (although he says it were at Camp Westmont, a Jewish knew my mom but many of you did not. She was a complex person, is his mother – now deceased for many years – who is responsible sleep away camp in the Catskills yet very warm and caring. People who met her always loved her. She for saving it.) for the summer, so we never had a HUGE heart, a big personality, and for much of my life, was very Anyway, I know when I have lost loved ones, I have treasured the did hear this story. My mother trusting of people, including strangers. As she got older, she became small anecdotes that people (often strangers to me) have shared worked at First National City more skeptical, but overall, that’s part of who she was. She was kind, and so I am sharing this with you. Bank (now Citibank) in NYC as a considerate, compassionate, empathetic and a whole lot of fun. Was I would love to hear back from you…my information is below… and will share with Steve as well. memory was correct, although I the time! I would very much like to know if you have any knowledge of amPersonal sure myLoan mother Officer. did So, not Susan’s give sheHowever, a saint?? receivingAbsolutely this not! letter Did shereminded drive my me sister of those and positive me crazy? traits All your Mom’s parade day loan and subsequent letter and if and where them a $2 personal loan from the that we can forget sometimes when one’s mother drives them crazy or she worked at a bank in NYC. Any other snippets about your mother bank, but, more likely, from her when their declining years are less than stellar. Thanks to Susan Cody, would be appreciated as well. wallet. If you got this far, thank I got a piece of my mother back. Sincerely, you for reading to the end. May Susan sent me a memory of my mother that I had no knowledge of. Susan Cody” all your lives be touched by the Her letter reminded me of “the kindness of strangers” and Susan paid kindness of a stranger. it forward when she sent it to my sister and me. You gotta wonder! Would this happen today? Read the letter. Enjoy it, whether you knew my mother or not. It’s bound to touch your heart. May we all be blessed with the “kindness of strangers” at least once in our lifetime. TECHNOLOGY. TRADITION. TORAH. Congregation Beth El is welcoming new members. During this time “Dear Francine and Marcia, of pandemic our congregation is more active than ever through the I am writing to share a small story about your mother who I met one summer day in New York City when I was 15. I realize she safety of Zoom and offers a wide variety of options for everyone. passed away not long ago and thought you would be interested to know how she touched my life and why she is on my mind lately. In 1969, my family rented a cabin in the Adirondacks for several Rabbi Earl Kideckel joined Beth El as its spiritual weeks and I fell madly in love with a camp counselor my age from leader last summer and has rapidly become a Massachusetts who worked at a YMCA camp down the road. When beloved part of the congregation. He has my family returned home to Irvington that summer, my counselor friend, Steve Kramer, found a ride south and visited for a few days. provided innovative ways to vitalize the My family lived by the Metro North Hudson train line, so we took synagogue despite the pandemic and has initiated the train into New York City for the day, which was August 13, 1969. diversity to our services while respecting our I had not been in touch with Steve Kramer since the 1970’s, but traditions. Rabbi Kideckel has officiated at life he recently saw my father’s 2017 obituary and sent a personal note along with a donation to the Lake George Association. I emailed him cycle events for many decades and enjoys to thank him, and we ended up corresponding and then chatting collaborating with other area synagogues and on the phone on several occasions, initially about August 13. It was clergy. humorous how our memories differed about some of the details. It was apparently very hot (Steve’s recollection.) We saw Romeo and Juliet at the Paris Theatre (my recollection) near the Plaza JOIN US – WE LOOK FORWARD TO MEETING YOU! Hotel and sat through it twice, I think because we didn’t have much money, had nowhere else to go and it was cool inside. When we 860.442.0418 • [email protected] • bethel-nl.org THE JEWISH LEADER, MAY 7, 2021 7 Hadassah News Dialogue on the Diaspora President’s Message by Karen Bloustine A Hadassah Project exploring our Jewish roots around the world. Hadassah Cares, A Community Mitzvah The Jews of Cuba - My Trip to Cuba in 2020 Hadassah is always looking for By Carol Curland Havana and is the author of “The ways to help our entire community. In January 2020, I traveled to Cuba on a tour with the New York Chosen Island: Jews in Cuba”. She It is part of our mission to care about Museum of Jewish Heritage. At the luxurious Spanish-run Hotel told us : “To be Cuban and Jewish families and children in need here in is to be twice survivors.” America. to the section of Old Havana. US Embargo restrictions prohibited Following the 1959 Our hearts go out to children whose Melina Cohiba, we overlooked the sea and were a five-minute walk Revolution, 90 percent of life circumstances force them to be Cuba’s Jews left and Jewish placed in foster care. Too often, when life on the island lay dormant. they move from one home to another, their belongings are carried away in constitution allowing for greater garbage bags. religiousDue to a freedoms change inin the1991, Cuban the One of our members, Lois Steinman, learned about this and decided to do something about it. It is hard enough Joint Distribution Committee. for children to have to move from a troubled home to one of refuge. Miller,( JDC ) and began the working remaining with Jews the At least, Lois thought, they should have the personal dignity to have tocommunity rebuild Jewish president, life Dr.on Josethe a piece of luggage they can call their own when they move their belongings. development professionals have sinceisland. JDCcreated Jewish opportunities community Families in Norwich. They told Lois they would be happy to receive for local Jews to explore their So, Lois contacted the Connecticut Department of Children and heritage, resulting in a dynamic these children. The luggage should be carry-on size - 24 inches in renaissance from one end of the heightnew or or gently smaller. used Gently luggage used as wellmeans as nobackpacks broken andzippers duffle or bags wheels for island to the other. There are or with tears or mold. approximately 1200 Jews in Cuba So, on Sunday, May 16, you can help today. They are experiencing Lois realize her idea to give these children an awakening after a long and something they can call their own. We will the use of credit cards and traveler checks. The hotel had a bank to uncertain period. To make prayer be collecting your luggage, backpacks, negotiate our cash. Cuba is still in many respects like a third-world possible the “Cuban Minyan” was and duffle bag donations at two country. Unexpected delays and unforeseen inconveniences are born - counting each Torah as a locations: not uncommon. The electrical voltage is 110 as well as 220, but not qualifying member. 1. In the parking lot at Temple Emanu- consistent throughout the island, and we lost power on a daily basis. Our trip began with El, 29 Dayton Road, Waterford, from 10 Restaurants were better than I expected. The food is fresh, authentic, familiarizing ourselves with am to Noon - and and fairly inexpensive. There are regulations on what can be served. Jewish culture and religious life 2. In the parking lot at Beth Jacob in Cuba. Each day began with Synagogue, 400 New London Turnpike, discussions on history, politics, Norwich, from 10 am to Noon. lobster.Lobster, Our shrimp, meals and ended beef with are officiallya Cuban Cigarforbidden, presentation. but restaurants are and culture. We spent days in Eastern CT Hadassah invites all who infinitely resourceful, serving lamb instead of beef and crab instead of Havana and especially enjoyed read the Leader to participate in this Cuba’s Jewish History the old city. My impression, as Community Mitzvah. While the Jewish presence If you have any questions, please contact me at: bloustinek@ in Cuba dates back 500 years gmail.com. to the time of the Spanish Inquisition, organized Jewish life began in the 20th century with the founding of Hadassah Eastern CT We’d love to hear from you. in Havana in 1906 and the Please feel free to call or write. the island’s first synagogue cemetery four years later. ● President: Karen Bloustine [email protected] consecration Several wavesof the firstof Jewish 860-326-6377 ● Membership: Moira Ross [email protected] immigrants, primarily from ● Donations: Treas. Vicki Seroussi 2 Mitchell Ct the Ottoman Empire and Norwich, CT 06360 Eastern Europe reached Cuba ● Cards/Certificates: Kim Fischburg [email protected] 860-608-9223 together built more than a Follow us on Facebook dozenover the synagogues next five decades in as many and communities. Cuba was also a refuge for some Jewish families

Holocaust years. Going to Cuba COPY CATS, INC allowedfleeing me Europe to reconnect during with the my past. I spent 32 years hearing my I walked through the city, was Your full service print solutions provider husband’s family talk every Shabbat about their past - how they had that it felt like a journey back 458 Williams St. - New London, CT 06320 in time. Vintage cars speed 860-442-8424 - www.copycatsnl.com they sought refuge in Cuba until they could come to America a year tolater. flee We Germany met with from Maritza Hitler -Corrales, and because a Cuban the UShistorian had a quota who system,lives in CUBA CONT. ON PG 13 8 THE JEWISH LEADER, MAY 7, 2021 Making an impact

By Sivan Gvili, 2017-18 Young Emissary If any of you could have met 13-year-old Sivan and Where are asked her what her biggest dream was, she would they now? probably have said ‘to be a young emissary’. Sure, back

dream was going to come true, and of course I couldn’t educational content for soldiers and commanders eventhen Iimagine didn’t actuallyat the time think the that impact five this years year later would this according to what the unit needs or wants. have on me now, 3 years after I left Connecticut. My service started with three months of basic So, hi everyone! My name is Sivan Gvili and I was the training and a professional course. At the end of the 2017-18 Young Emissary along with Ziv Lavi. Hopefully, course, I served as a soldier for about a year. After most of you still remember us and don’t need that introduction. to continue doing the same job in the same place or It is hard to believe it has already been almost 4 years Taken with Sivan’s host family, The Straus’, in Mystic on the first year in the military, I had to decide whether her last day with them in the year. wonderful. I loved it there but felt like I needed to do a what turned out to be one of the biggest adventures in leave my unit to become an officer. My time there was oursince lives, Ziv atand least I first in myarrived life. in this community, to start to 800 words. And of course, I can’t talk about the year Course. I somehow even managed to get a long vacation It is hard to explain how special this year was to me. I had without mentioning my host families- the Fenton’s andlittle visitmore, the so I communityleft to do a six-monthright before Officers starting Training the (Andrea, Fred, Alexis, Jacob, and Ethan) and the Straus’s (Sarah, Joel, Joseph, and Eleanor) I got to work in the education field that I love, work with course. I finished the course in April 2020. the word host before the word In my job now, I am the Education Officer of one of familywho now because officially they don’t are needmy Ramon,the three which majors is aboutthat exist 90 minutesin the first north phase of Eilat.of officers Each family at this point. To me, the coursetraining. takes I serve about in threethe IDF months. Officers I love Academy this job in because Mitzpe most special thing about this community was that you made and help shape the commanders they will become. I me feel wanted and loved in feelI get I to have be partthe opportunityof the training to ofimpact the IDF people future and officers even every time and place. Even now, the whole system in this job, because the cadets I meet a few years later this community every single day, will later spread into so many different still feels like home to me. units, and If I have an impact on them, I have an impact When I was asked to write on their units. this article, Marcia called it “Where Are They Now?” so I service. I guess at this point I should probably have a guess I should probably start moreSix accurate months fromplan fornow the (October future than 2021) what I will I have finish now, my sharing what I have been up to. but I am sure everything will turn out okay, eventually. Right now, my plan is to have a gap year before back in June 2018, I stayed for starting school. I want to use this year to do all the twoWhen more I finished months theand programtraveled exams I need so I can apply to school, and I also hope to around the east coast and then returned to Israel two months IMPACT CONT. ON PG 9

Sivan’s family from Israel with both host families, The Straus’ and The Fenton’s, during her Israeli family’s visit during her year.

kids, teens, and adults. I had the chance to be exposed to later, in August 2018. I didn’t other denominations in Judaism. I had the opportunity have too much time before I to discover a new state, country, and culture at only 18. started my military service in And more than anything I was lucky enough to meet the October of that year. My role most wonderful people. I miss spending every morning with the Schechter kids and staff (and especially with our Israeli American 2016-17),is in the education Liron Binyamin field (same (YE moms Ella and Liora), I miss teaching Hebrew at the 2018-19),field to which and TalTal GilboaAmar (YE religious schools or even just going to a Shabbat service. 2019-20) were recruited.) I I am so thankful for all the people I met there. Starting think the exact translation with our coordinator Marcia (who somehow manages for the role is ‘Coordinator to keep in touch with like a thousand emissaries from of Education and Knowledge the past, including me), the federation staff- Jerry, of the Country’ or something Mimi, and Jeannine (I use to drive all of them crazy), like that. You get the idea. My all the teachers, rabbis, students and so many other job includes planning trips, people that I would mention if Marcia didn’t limit me lectures, activities and other

Youth Group Teens in NYC with Ziv and Sivan during the Israel Day Parade in June. THE JEWISH LEADER, MAY 7, 2021 9

Impact continued from page 8 be able to travel a little bit (but unfortunately this is up to Covid….). I want to engage in a therapeutic profession, maybe a Psychologist or Occupational Therapist. Writing this article has brought up so many good memories. I hope that soon enough this crazy reality will be over and that the Young Emissaries will return to your lives, because you deserve it, and the future emissaries deserve you. I love you all and will be forever thankful for the opportunity. Hope to visit again sometime soon, but until then I would love to hear from you! [email protected] +972542284188- whatsapp\ iMessage Sivan Gvili- Facebook

Taken with some of Temple Emanu-El Relgious School staff at Cafe Ivrit for the school; a joint project with Terri Goldsmith, Sivan and Ziv.

Sivan at Solomon Schechter Academy with students Yana, Jenna and Eden

Sivan with her host family The Fenton's: Alexis in front. Then l-r, Sivan, Jacob, Andrea & Fred

A recent photo of Sivan in uniform, complete with mask, taken in a military base in Kibbutz Sde Boker Recent photos of Sivan -- before and after her hair cut. 10 THE JEWISH LEADER, MAY 7, 2021

EMISSARIES CONT. FROM PG 1 four days of orientation, then off to the community to meet the JFEC the torch” and continuing the staff and then straight to their host families. Sivan started out with the tradition started back in 2012- Fenton’s in Old Lyme and then mid-year went to live with The Straus’ 13 with Hadar and Paz and the in Groton. Ziv started out with The O’Brien’s and then mid-year moved candlelighting brought to us by in with The McCaffrey’s – both families are East Lyme residents. Bar and May in 2013-14. The girls worked so hard to make sure every detail was covered, and that the celebration would be as fabulous or better than the ones before. They totally achieved what they set out to do. It was Israel’s 70th Yom Ha’Atzmaut celebration that wasn’t in Congregation birthday and Beth the firstEl’s social hall. This one took place at Conn College and was absolutely Before the Yom Ha’atzmaut celelebration gets underway, members stunning. The room had a similar of the community representing a variety of groups light the candles. layout only it was more spacious Some of the groups represented were Emissary host families, and it worked beautifully. The volunteers, and youth group members to name a few. The big crowd at Yom Ha’atzmaut celebration listens to Sivan and girls truly outdid themselves. Ziv make their presentation about what the day means to them Everything was perfect!! I was so and Israel with Jerry Fischer looking on. The teens who volunteered proud of them and so grateful to them for all to help for the evening are eagerly awaiting to get started with all their hard work. the activities and food. Sivan and Ziv had the synagogue families as well, to love and support them. At the end of their year, they led a wonderful Café Israel own. Yes, you can see where this is going. In the beginning it took them program at the home of Mike and Florence Sivan and Ziv were both fiercely independent with styles of their (Flossie) Betten with many people from Temple Emanu-El. The discussion was open, goodawhile friends. to figure out their way together. This is a common theme as honest, engaging, and lively. It was a highlight you know by now. Over time they did find their way and became really and a wonderful way to end their year. It is the balance between their work commitments, time with their host still remembered fondly by all who were in familiesWe had and our time own for share themselves of challenges to travel as I andworked explore. to help That them can find be attendance. As you have learned from article after article, no year is without some kind of challenge, but what in life is? I give these young people a ton of credit! They travel to another country, learn about another culture, embrace it as their own and do so, very far Ella Sackett making the pitot on the tabun (pita on the from home, with as much grace and dignity as tabun) for the 4th year in a row with a teen behind her, they can muster. No small task, and each and Lenny Cohen and Gabe Stern during Yom Ha’atzmaut. every one of them are an inspiration to us all.

Sivan Gvili, 2017-18 Young Emisarry putting up decorations for the Yom Ha’atzmaut/Israel Independence Day Celebration held in May 2018 at Connecticut College. 5/12 5/26 a slippery slope as being a Young Emissary is a 24/7 commitment. HISTORY OF JEWISH COMICS START FRESH Wherever they go during the year, they are a Young Emissary – SUPERNATURAL Karen Bloustine, Myra Gipstein, whether in the community, meeting friends of the family or going Faye Ringel Elyse Landesberg

6/2 overwhelming and exhausting. Hence why it’s called a Shlichut – A for a coffee at Starbucks or Dunkin’ Donuts - it never ends. It can be THE GIVING GARDEN & Year of Service. With all the exhaustion and commitments, it is one of 5/19 WILDFLOWER GARDENS the reasons the host families are so important. That is the one place HURRICANE SEASON Mark Christensen they can “let their hair down,” be themselves, complain about anything PREPARENESS: GENERATORS – work, their Coordinator (me), being far from home, and have a family Ed Goldberg 6/9 to come home to that will love them and give them the all the support JEWS & BASEBALL they need - just like their family at home would give, as best they can. Rabbi Aaron Rosenberg As time went on, Sivan, Ziv and I got into our “groove,” worked together on any issues and had a really good year. Sivan and Ziv and made relationships and in-roads with many people, not the least ofdefinitely which werefound our the balanceteens. They between both work, loved host their families Solomon and Schechter social life family, especially Ella Sackett and Liora Zeevi who were their site mentors and their “Israeli moms.” Sivan and Ziv had a fabulous Yom Ha’Atzmaut celebration, “carrying

THE JEWISH LEADER, MAY 7, 2021 11

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452 BROAD STREET | NEW LONDON, CT 12 THE JEWISH LEADER, MAY 7, 2021 Rivlin may task Lapid to form government By Times of Israel Staff likely Lapid or, possibly, Bennett. He could also send the mandate to Lapid has spent the past several weeks galvanizing the support of Prime Minister Benjamin the change bloc — which consists of Yesh Atid (17 seats), Blue and Netanyahu failed to form a 61 or more of the 120 MKs; if that failed, Israel would automatically White (8), Yisrael Beytenu (7), Labor (7), New Hope (6), and Meretz the Knesset, which would have 21 days to find a candidate backed by (6) — but has also been in talks with additional parties including since April 2019. Yamina (7), Ra’am (4) and the Joint List (6), most of whose support he headHebrew to its fifth electionmedia would need to swear in a government. reports citing senior While Lapid’s party won 17 seats in the March election, he has said political sources have speculated that Lapid agreement, despite Yamina only will be given the next havinghe is prepared won seven to allow seats. Bennett to serve first as premier in a rotational opportunity to form Speaking at his Yesh Atid a government, as he party’s faction meeting on had the second most Monday, Lapid said that he recommendations was unwilling to relinquish the after Netanyahu when presidential mandate to Bennett Rivlin consulted with and expected to be tasked with party representatives forming a government by Rivlin. last month. The Likud “I will not give up the mandate leader was given the to Bennett. I see the tricks that are being done and I hope the cobble together a president doesn’t enable it,” coalitionfirst opportunity on April to6, Lapid said, apparently referring Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid speaks at a weekly faction meeting in the Knesset Yamina party leader Naftali after receiving 52 to Netanyahu’s offer to Bennett on May 5, 2021 (Courtesy) Bennett speaks during a faction recommendations of a premiership rotation deal. meeting at the Knesset, on May 3, government ahead of a midnight versus Lapid’s 45. “We will go with Bennett and try May 4-5 deadline, telling the Lapid and Bennett have been negotiating coalition terms in recent to form a government.” 2021. (Yonatan Sindel/Flash90) president he could not muster a weeks, reportedly closing in on agreements in many areas, with the majority and leaving him close to losing power after 12 straight “unity government.” The capacity of the so-called “change bloc” of anti- “TheAt the foundations same time, Lapid are ready. confirmed We can he was form still a willinggovernment. to let Bennett In one NetanyahuYesh Atid leader parties ready to win to let a BennettKnesset servemajority first is as not prime straightforward, minister in a morebe first day, in aif premiership nothing surprising rotation happens, deal between we will the betwo. faced with two However, the rival bloc of since parties of radically diverse ideologies would need to back it. options: an Israeli national unity government, solid, decent, and hard- partiesyears in could office. also fail to build a However, the fact that Likud tried to woo the conservative Islamic Knesset majority, and Netanyahu party Ra’am into supporting a Netanyahu-led coalition would appear continues as transitional prime to have broken a historic taboo on Arab parties holding a determining working. Or fifth elections,” he said. minister for the time being. role in the establishment of an Israeli government. Sapir Berman makes history Netanyahu formally returned Netanyahu, who has served as prime minister for a record-breaking By Emily Burack, JTA the government-forming 12 consecutive years, after a three-year term from 1996-9, was given mandate to President Reuven Premier League between Hapoel Haifa and Beitar Jerusalem. It was Rivlin a few minutes before elections — Israel’s fourth elections in two years. Netanyahu came a routineOn May playoff 3, Sapir game, Berman with one officiated notable amoment: soccer matchBerman, in 26, Israel’s was the deadline expired, and the closefirst chance to losing at buildingpower after a government the third aftersuch theelection, deadlocked in March March 2020, 23 president now has three days to when his rival Benny Gantz of the Blue and White party, was charged transgender. decide how best to proceed. by Rivlin with building a government. But Netanyahu managed to woo the“Football head referee being and such officiating a masculine her first sport match delayed since mycoming decision out asa Gantz into a coalition with him and retain the prime ministership. That bit. I didn’t know how it would be received,” Berman said at a news contact party representatives conference last week. “In the end, however, the reactions were mostly “regardingRivlin’s the office process said of it forming would budget, triggering the March 23 vote. positive.” a government” on Wednesday coalitionBennett collapsed has been in in December, talks with when party Netanyahu leaders, including failed to passNetanyahu, a state The Israel Football Association and the referees’ union shared morning. He is now seen likely aimed at convincing them to update their recommendations to back supportive messages on social media. to give Yair Lapid of Yesh Atid him for the premiership. Yamina hoped to receive the backing of “One of my goals entering this role was to make sure there’s a the chance to form a coalition, Likud, Religious Zionism and the ultra-Orthodox United Torah Judaism female referee in the Premier League,” Ronit Tirosh, the head of the in the knowledge that Lapid and and Shas parties. This would give Bennett 59 recommendations, Israeli referees’ union, said. “I thank Sapir for helping me in achieving Yamina’s Naftali Bennett have surpassing Lapid. Likud’s statement blaming Bennett for Netanyahu’s this goal way quicker than expected.” been holding negotiations under inability to build a majority, however, would appear to reduce the A British soccer referee who came out in 2018, Lucy Clark, is prospect of Likud now asking Rivlin to let the Yamina leader try to cheering on Berman from England. as prime minister in a rotation form a coalition. “When she sees her name on the program, and when Sapir goes agreementwhich Bennett with wouldLapid. serve first Rivlin would not necessarily grant the Yamina chair the mandate out on to the pitch and the announcer announces that today’s men’s In a statement, Likud blamed even if he did get more recommendations than Lapid, as the right- referee is Sapir, she’ll do brilliantly,” Clark said. Bennett for blocking Netanyahu’s wing bloc already had a chance to form a government and failed to route to a majority. “Because do so. If Bennett managed to get an absolute majority of MKs to back of Bennett’s refusal to commit him — which would require convincing Ra’am to back him as well — to a right-wing government, a Rivlin would likely have no choice but to hand him the mandate. led to the establishment of a were said to have recently spoken with Rivlin, saying the president governmentmove that would with additional definitely haveMKs willChannel not task 12 Bennett news on with Tuesday forming quoted a government. unnamed senior According officials, to who the 136 Sachem Street joining, Prime Minister Benjamin network, Rivlin may issue a decision as soon as Wednesday. Memorial Norwich CT 06360 Netanyahu returned the mandate Prior to the Tuesday night deadline, Bennett had urged the to the president,” Likud said as establishment of a right-wing government and said that he would back 860-889-2374 the midnight deadline passed. a Netanyahu-led coalition on condition if it could muster a majority Fax 860-886-2396 The president can now give in the Knesset; otherwise, he said he would back a unity government the mandate to another MK, most with the “change bloc” that has vowed to oust the prime minister. THE JEWISH LEADER, MAY 7, 2021 13

CUBA CONT. FROM PG 7 AUTHOR CONT. FROM PG 1

with lost or vanishing Jewish histories.…Her ruminations highlight neighborhoods, but with a glorious past. bothhistorical Jewish analysis history in and personal lack of reflectioncurrent resources as she travels to maintain to small sites towns and by magnificentOur tour included colonial an afternoon buildings, visiting some crumbling, the cemeteries in dilapidated and parks records.…Her stories provide many revealing tidbits for those who and seeing the famous, beautiful 50s and 60s cars. We visited the Publishers Weekly Synagogues and attended services and lunch with the members. We visited The National Museum of Fine Arts, saw the Nutcracker Ballet enjoySouth’s self-reflective racial politics.”— historicalKirkus writing.” Reviews — with the Cuban National Ballet Troupe, two concerts, and visited an “A digestible introduction to a specific piece of the history of the authentic Cuban nightclub - the world-renowned Tropicana. us on a powerful journey through the physical and internal landscapes of the“Beautifully South. Eisenfeld written confronts and highly religion, thoughtful, race, and Wandering reckoning, Dixie revealing takes Synagogues and Jewish Life in Cuba the powerful vectors in our lives that push us into the unexpected.” — Randon Billings Noble, author of Be with Me Always Hebrew Center, the Adath Israel Orthodox, and the largest, Conservative “In stunningly elegant prose, Eisenfeld uncovers the anonymous BethThere Shalom. are fiveThe synagogues other two are in inCuba Santa - three Clara in and Havana Cienfuegos. -the Sephardic At Beth corners of Jewish and Confederate history. In this immersive gem of a book, she inspires hope for a nuanced and vital conversation about Community in Cuba who told us she is optimistic about the future race by claiming her own role in ‘our troubled American story.’” — becauseShalom in “today Havana, we wehave met people Adela who Dworin, are young,Vice-President middle-aged of the and Jewish old. Michelle Brafman, author of Washing the Dead Educating the children is the only way to keep the community alive.” From South Carolina to Jewish teenagers prepare for bar and bat mitzvahs through a special Arkansas, she explores the small study program. Hundreds of Jews share in communal chicken dinners towns where Jewish people Overland Park killer dies once lived and thrived. She visits and adults participate in Jewish dance troupes that connect them to the site of her distant cousin theirfollowing cultural Shabbat identity services and each at the other. islands Religious five synagogues.educators from Children Latin the day a book is published and civil rights activist Andrew By Ron Kampeas, JTA Goodman’s murder during 1964’s The white supremacist who murdered three people outside Jewish Freedom Summer. She also talks institutions in Overland Park, Kansas, in 2014, died on the same day with the only Jews remaining in that the daughter and mother of two of his victims published a book some of the “lost” places, from memorializing their lives. Frazier Glenn Miller, also known as Frazier Glenn Cross, died to Natchitoches, and visits areas withSelma no to theJewish Mississippi community Delta left—except for an old temple or diedMonday of natural at the causes. El Dorado Correctional Facility near Wichita, the overgrown cemetery. Eisenfeld Kansas City Fox4 affiliate reported. He was 80 and believed to have follows her curiosity about in the deaths of Reat Underwood, 14, and his grandfather, William Jewish Confederates and casts an Corporon,Miller was 69, convicted outside the in 2015Jewish of threeCommunity counts Centerof first-degree of Kansas murder City in Overland Park, as well as Terri LaManno, 53, outside the Village Jews’ participation in slavery. Shalom assisted-living facility in April 2014. None of the victims were unflinching eye on early southern Her travels become a journey Jewish, but Miller assumed they were when he shot them. of revelation about our nation’s Mindy Corporon, the mother of Underwood and daughter to fraught history and a personal Corporon, published her account of their lives and her counseling of reckoning with the true nature of other families who have been victims of violence. “Healing a Shattered America. Soul: My Faithful Journey of Courageous Kindness after the Trauma

About the Author Her publicist released a statement that also omits his name. Sue Eisenfeld is a freelance and“The Grief murderer of Domestic took Terrorism” the lives does of two not Methodistsmention Miller’s and aname. Catholic writer, communications while intending to murder Jews,” Corporon said in the statement. “No consultant, and faculty member one should have lost their lives at his hands. We are neither happy nor in the Johns Hopkins University sad. He stole so much from our family, but he didn’t steal our hearts or MA in Science Writing Program. our dignity. He did not steal our memories, the love that sustains us or Her work has appeared in the America visit Cuba to teach Jewish traditions. More than 150 children the ability to offer forgiveness and kindness in the face of such tragedy. New York Times, Washington and parents attend Jewish educational programs each week. Miller was sentenced to death. In March he asked a court to Post, The Forward, and other From Havana, we went to the outlying provinces of Santa Clara overturn his death sentence, saying the sentencing court should not publications. She is the author and Cienfuegos ( UNESCO World Heritage Site ) and met with small have allowed him to represent himself. of Shenandoah: A Story of Jewish communities, and enjoyed Shabbat dinner. The synagogue in Conservation and Betrayal. Find Santa Clara had received their only Torah Scroll from West Hartford, her at www.sueeisenfeld.com. Ct. and that made me proud! They converted a house into a synagogue and take pride in the somber Holocaust memorial in the local Jewish cemetery which includes a stone from the Holocaust memorial Praise For… Eisenfeld’s itinerary is both organized“In [Wanderingand serendipitous. Dixie], andin Washington, branches for D.C., 6 candles, and a pathsymbolizing made of the stones 2 million from who the Warsawdied in The souvenirs she picks up along theGhetto. Holocaust. Next to Inthe Cienfuegos, Memorial stands the Jewish a menorah community with a withStar ofonly David 27 the way, like the weeds in so practicing Jews, gathers every Friday for Shabbat services in the front many of the overgrown Jewish room of an apartment. cemeteries she visits, amount One of our goals was to support the Jewish communities with to a beautifully nuanced and funds, supplies, and medications. I personally brought medications moving portrait of acceptance that are stored by the synagogue in Havana and given out when needed and accountability.”—Cathy Alter, An Overland Park police vehicle sits in front of the Jewish Community Washington Independent Review Center of Greater Kansas City, Kan., following shootings there and to the synagogues and the Jewish community are important to keep because pharmacies do not have some prescription drugs. Donations of Books later at a nearby assisted-living complex that killed a total of three them alive and vibrant. It was a wonderful and meaningful trip. people, April 13, 2014. (Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

“[Eisenfeld] grounds her 14 THE JEWISH LEADER, MAY 7, 2021 Sarah Goldie Silverstein Youngest survivor to testify at New London - Sarah Goldie (Rodensky) Silverstein, 99, of New London, died Friday, April 23, 2021, at Bayview Eichmann trial dies at 91 Healthcare in Waterford. She was born in Groton, July 8, By Ron Kampeas, JTA 1921, the daughter of Rubin and Mary Magelefsky Rodensky. Yosef Kleinman, the youngest were shorter than the device’s She married Solon “Sol” Silverstein who predeceased her Holocaust survivor to testify measurementson the field that would those die. who Aug. 14, 2004. at the trial of Nazi leader Adolf “Every one of us stood She is survived by two sons, Robert Silverstein and his Eichmann, has died at 91. straight, each one of us sought wife Cindy of East Lyme and Roy Silverstein and his wife Kleinman, who lived in an extra centimeter of height,” Jacquelyn of Shorewood, Wisconsin. She was predeceased Jerusalem, died May 4, according Kleinman said at the trial. He by her six brothers: Sam, Louis, Abe, Morris, Herman “Hi” to Akiva Weisz, a reporter for immediately discerned that Obituaries and Larry. Israel’s Kan public broadcaster. he was not tall enough. His Sarah grew up in Groton, graduating early from Fitch Weisz posted the notice on brother gave him pebbles to High School in 1938. She had numerous jobs and became Twitter. put in his shoes to get to the a sought-after bookkeeper, which led her to a position as Kleinman was one of 110 requisite height. Through a civilian payroll specialist at Fort Wright on Fishers Island during witnesses at the 1961 trial of some maneuvering, Kleinman World War II, taking the ferry from New London, every day. After the Eichmann, the most senior remained with his brother in war, she worked at Salem Airport, which was busy helping returning the line of those destined to the extermination of the Jews, slave labor. Sol in 1949, and the birth of her two sons, she was active in the Beth-El andGerman at 31 officialwas the inyoungest. charge His of Kleinman said the youths, Yosef Kleinman, an Auschwitz military pilots get recertified for civilian flight. After her marriage to Sisterhood and Public Library of New London for many years. testimony, delivered just after who were grouped in the camp survivor who testified at the trial Sarah and Sol were avid bridge players and golfers and were another witness fainted, was with the Roma, soon were able of Adolf Eichmann, poses for members of the New London Country Club for over 30 years. Sarah about the fate of Jewish youths at to tell whether humans were a video outside his apartment was the designated hostess of family events and holiday meals for Auschwitz. being killed in the crematoria. in Jerusalem on Holocaust many years and remained “famous” for her homemade horseradish. “We became experts on She survived two bouts of breast cancer in her forties and sixties Remembrance Day, Yom 1944 from Budapest when he smoke,” he told Israel’s Channel Hashoah, April 21, 2020. (Akiva and spent time counseling women who were recently diagnosed. That wasDeported 14, Kleinman to saw Auschwitz his mother in 13 in a 2019 documentary. Weisz Twitter feed) she came within a few months of 100 years is testimony to her inner and younger sister sent to their His testimony helped send deaths. Eichmann to the gallows. she could be a “tough old broad” (her words), she was a sweetheart In vivid terms that riveted the Kleinman and his brother would get out of Auschwitz by sneaking strength. She was a positive influence on many people, and while through and through. trial judges, Steinman described Our special thanks go to the staff at Bayview who helped her Josef Mengele, the physician soldier among the Americans liberating the camp gave him a shirt to through these last few weeks, treating her with kindness and respect, at Auschwitz whom Steinman wear,into a which work he detail kept senthis entire to Dachau. life. He told reporters that a Jewish and in return getting some of her favorite stories. referred to in his testimony by Following liberation, he and his brother wandered around Europe A graveside service was conducted at 11 a.m. Tuesday, April 27, in his sobriquet, “The Angel of until they joined a ship to Cyprus, where they were interned until they Beth-El Community Cemetery, Groton. Memorial contributions may were allowed to immigrate to prestate Israel in 1947. He served in the be directed to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure (www.komen.org). on a bicycle with a measuring Israeli army and with his brother later opened a carpentry business. Condolences may be shared on Mrs. Silverstein’s memorial page at device.Death,” arrivingIt became at a immediatelysoccer field Around the time of his testimony, Kleinman began to encourage www.neilanfuneralhome.com. clear to the youths gathered Holocaust remembrance authorities in Israel to compile the stories of the youths who perished in the Holocaust, which until then had largely been unknown. He became a much-wanted speaker at schools and to Anna Sheikowitz becomes a Bat Mitzvah troops. He kept the striped hat he was forced to wear at Auschwitz his Anna has been a Girl Scout for Anna Cloe Sheikowitz will become a Bat Mitzvah on entire life. Saturday, May 15, 2021, assisting Rabbi Marc Ekstrand eight years and has been active in local youth theatre, playing roles and Cantorial Soloist Sherry Barnes in leading services on Adolf Eichmann, poses for a video outside his apartment in Jerusalem Friday evening, May 14, and in Alice in Wonderland, Yosef Kleinman, an Auschwitz survivor who testified at the trial of The Lion King, Annie, Saturday morning. Weisz Twitter feed) Anna is the daughter of Suessical, Willy Wonka on Holocaust Remembrance Day, Yom Hashoah, April 21, 2020. (Akiva and the Chocolate Leah Stillman and Russell would emerge from his Jerusalem apartment wearing the cap and Factory, Frozen, and The Personals Sheikowitz, and sister holdingAfter up the a big siren portrait on Holocaust of his large Remembrance family arrayed Day around each him year, and he Wizard of Oz. his wife, Chaya, who is also a survivor. There were three children, 16 In the summer member of Temple Emanu– grandchildren and four great-grandchildren as of 2019. months, Anna is a El since ofbirth, Daniel Anna Sheikowitz.celebrated her A “Am Yisrael Chai,” he would repeat. “The people of Israel live.” baby naming on the same bima she camper at Camp Young will become a Bat Mitzvah! Anna is an Judaea in Amherst, NH. active student at the Temple Emanu- AUTO | HOME | COMMERCIAL | MARINE El religious school, and very involved summer at Camp YJ. in temple life, engaging in numerous ThisAnna will beis her very fifth community service projects and passionate about L E V I N E embracing core Jewish values. She is volunteering in her community. For her also an active member of the Jewish INSURANCE GROUP, LLC Federation of Eastern CT Junior Youth mitzvah project, she Group. is working with the Anna is a seventh-grade high Homeless Hospitality ANDREW J. LEVINE honors student at John Winthrop Center in New London, Owner, Producer, 40+ Years Experience putting together plays the baritone horn and sings in “Welcome Home” boxes 221 Boston Post Rd. 860-739-4444 Office Middle School in Deep River, CT. She for those community members P.O. Box 339 860-739-6861 Fax transitioning into their own Club and Youth in Action Club. East Lyme, CT 06333 [email protected] the chorus at JWMS. She is also a member of the Middle School Drama homes. THE JEWISH LEADER, MAY 7, 2021 15 What to change? Lessons from tennis TEDDY WEINBERGER © 2021, Teddy Weinberger Life in Israel is not just about voting for a new government every keep trying until it does (i.e. you few months. In between we do stuff. Like play tennis. A few months ago get to repeat your second serve something wonderful happened on this front: Two men revolutionized rather than your more powerful social tennis (my rule is not appropriate for the game with a simple rule change. I was one of those men and this tournamentto official tennis play). rules For that example, are accepted touching in is my story. the net with any part of your body or racket I started playing tennis almost first serve). In one fell swoop, during or in the aftermath of a shot should half a century ago. But hand in hand result in your forfeiting the point, but this with my love for the game came rule is typically overlooked in social tennis. a fear of double faulting. My fear was essentially not of losing but of looking pathetic. It could occur at doubleAnother fault--because common social-tennis no one wants rule tois “first-begin any time, whether I was winning or one-in”; i.e., on the very first point you cannot losing, and would often morph in to the whole game. my head into the following words: theIt’s game possible by serving that aftera double a year fault or Mytwo rule of sessions just extends with “first-one-in” an excellent “It would really be a shame to hand sports psychologist, I could have gotten to the same state regarding over a free point now.” My anxiety the serve without my “no double faults” rule, but I’m not sure. I only would sometimes get to a stage wish that I had come up with my rule decades ago because not only when I could hardly toss the ball would I have enjoyed tennis more, but I think that my partners would up because my arm shook so much. have preferred it. To check out this hypothesis, I contacted Steve Benz, To say that I was not having fun at Associate Professor of English at the University of New Mexico, and those times would be a great understatement—I was suffering. a former tennis partner of mine in Miami in the mid-90s. Unlike me, my fear disappeared. Absent the Steve was also a successful tournament player, moving on to Atlanta a of a sports psychologist, adopting his suggestion of always bouncing psychological problem, I was few years later and twice winning that city’s championship for his age theLord ball knowsa set number that I workedof times on before my problem. the serve; I listened I concentrated to the CDs on left with the technical aspect of level. I emailed Steve: “Back in our Miami days, if I had asked you to my breathing, rather than the outcome of the serve; and I even went my serve, which is fairly good. play using my rule, would you have agreed?” Steve wrote back: to a creative arts therapist in Jerusalem for several months, where Because of this, it almost never “I would have had no problem accepting the proposed rule change. I learned to keep a journal that would feature ideal tennis-serve happens that I actually need to The main reason is that I never liked winning a point by double fault scenarios (which I was to concentrate upon during an actual game). and would rather play the point--win or lose--than not play it. In fact, All of this helped but only partially. serve doesn’t go in, my second quite often in my tennis ‘career,’ I’ve returned second serves that were Recently, my problem was getting the better of me in my tennis serveimplement almost my never rule—if misses. my first out but close and kept on playing the point just because it’s more fun games with my friend Rabbi Lior Engelman (many of whose holiday To the tennis purists among to play. I’ve even done that in tournaments. I guess my philosophy teachings I have translated for this column). It got to a point where would be ‘Play on!’” I was ready to stop playing with him. But Lior did not want to give thinking: “the stress is part of the Thanks for the validation, Steve. I will just add here that I think there up on our game, and frankly neither did I. We devised one simple game--whatyou who are you horrified have done and is not are is a larger lesson to be learned from my rule. If you have a problem in rule-change that has made all the difference: no double faults. If your tennis,” I would answer: There life, it is not always the case that you have to change; sometimes you second service does not go in to the appropriate service box, you get to are many common exceptions need to change the presenting circumstances. Yes, Play On! Yogurt as a cure for Covid-19 and Crohn’s disease? By Brian Blum, Israel21c The researchers began by system. Following promising results in animal models, we look Can yogurt cure Covid-19 and Crohn’s disease? Researchers at forward to administering these drug candidates to patients who are molecules reduced the virulence experiencing a cytokine storm due to Covid-19 infection, or people ofobserving vibrio cholerae, that kefir-secretedwhich cause bacteriaBen-Gurion by blockingUniversity communication of the Negev (BGU)between have cells. identified molecules disease.” in kefir,Yogurt a type is a offermented yogurt, that probiotic have the dairy potential drink tomade combat by inoculatingpathogenic interfered in the assembly of sufferingJosh Peleg, from acuteCEO inflammatoryof BGN Technologies, bowel pathologies the technology such as transferCrohn’s milk with microorganism mixtures, particularly yeast and bacteria. cholera. The kefir molecules company of BGU, added that “In a reality where antibiotic-resistant People have relied on the probiotics in yogurt for years to calm bacteria are becoming an imminent threat, the novel molecules tummy troubles and balance the negative effects of antibiotics. progression.bacterial biofilms, which play a significantThe molecules’ role in theapplicability disease’s bacterial infections by disrupting cell-to-cell communications in to Covid-19 came as a surprise. discovered by BGU scientists pave a completely new path for fighting The yogurt molecules not only activities of the molecules may open new avenues for therapeutics and eliminated the cytokine storm pathogenic bacteria. Moreover, the dramatic anti-inflammatory but also restored balance to the BGN Technologies is setting up a biopharma company “for the immune system. furtherscientifically development proven probiotic and clinical food examination” products.” of the technology. “These results are journal Microbiome. Profs. Michael Meijler, Ariel Kushmaro and Ron demonstration that virulence Apte,PhD all student of BGU, Oritparticipated. Malka led the study, which was published in the ofnotable, human since pathogenic this is thebacteria first can be mitigated by molecules Custom Tub & Shower secreted in probiotic milk Ruby Glass Enclosures products, such as yogurt or CO., INC • Design & Installation Ben-Gurion University of the Negev Prof. Raz Jelinek and PhD • All-Glass Enclosures student Orit Malka with their probiotic yogurt in a BGU lab. Photo SERVING SOUTHEASTERN CONNECTICUT president and dean for research FOR OVER 60 YEARS by Dani Machlis &kefir,” development said Prof. at Raz BGU. Jelinek, vice Expert Mirror Design & Probiotics are thought to boost immune system function as well. “Our research illuminates for FULLSERVICE GLASS SPECIALISTS Installation • Visit Our Showroom molecules in yogurt that appear to mitigate “cytokine storms,” the which milk-fermented probiotics extremeThis isimmune the first response time, however,that’s one that of the researchers main causes have of death isolated in canthe firstprotect time against a mechanism pathogenic by 151 Jefferson Avenue • New London, CT 06320 Covid-19 patients. infections and aid the immune Phone (860) 442-0373 • Fax (860) 442-1356 16 THE JEWISH LEADER, MAY 7, 2021

MAY 2021 FEATURES Thursday – Sunday, May 6–9 LOVE IN SUSPENDERS (Israel; Hebrew w/English subtitles; 93 minutes) The encounter between two people with such different personalities, such as Tammy and Beno, has to result in a nightmare...but love has its own rules. Thursday – Sunday, May 13–16 A STARRY SKY ABOVE THE ROMAN GHETTO (Italy; Italian w/English subtitles; 100 minutes) Past and present meet upon the discovery of an old, mysterious photograph that tie together Christian and Jewish students in search of the truth. Speaker: Director Giulio Base, Sunday, May 16, 1:00 pm Thursday – Sunday, May 20–23 KISS ME KOSHER (Israel/Germany; Hebrew; German w/English subtitles; 101 minutes) / KISS ME KOSHER is a romantic misadventure crossing all borders. THE SHABBOS GOY (short) A subversive love story between clashing cultures and families. Go to www.jfec.com to register for movie links and to register for speaker Zoom links.

COMING ATTRACTIONS IN JUNE 2021 Thursday – Sunday, June 3 – 6 THEY AIN’T READY FOR ME Speakers: Director Brad Rothschild & Tamar Manasseh, Sunday, June 6, 7:30 pm Thursday – Sunday, June 10 – 13 HERE WE ARE Thursday – Sunday, June 17 – 20 THE SPY BEHIND HOME PLATE Speaker: Producer/Director/Writer Aviva Kempner, Sunday, June 20, 7:30 pm Thursday – Sunday, June 24 – 27 CRESCENDO / Speaker: Screenwriter Stephen Glantz, Sunday, June 27, 7:30 pm

JE.ISH The Jewish Filmfest thanks FILMFEST its sponsors for their support OF EASTERN CT ensuring another successful year! � The Jewish Federation PRESENTED BY: � OFEASTERNCONNECTICUT THE STRENGTH OF A PEOPLE I THE POWER Of COMMUNITY

Yale NewHaven Health, Lawrence + Memorial Hospital Rita Hendel & Family/ Patricia Hendel & Family Litchpeld Distillery/ Valenti Auto Group/ The Nutmeg Companies, Inc. Steven & Debra Daren / Sayet & Seder, Attorneys at Law Carol Cur/and/ The Leiser Family Foundation / Ma/love's Jewelers Congregation Sharah Zedek / Minuteman Press Hochberg Holocaust and Human Rights Education Committee